Bequests

Since joining the Alpha Zeta Chapter at Southern Methodist University in fall 1960, Elisse Jones Freeman has dedicated herself to Alpha Delta Pi. Having grown up as an only child, Elisse initially thought it would be fun to have a group of young women to spend time with while in college. However, she quickly learned that the bond she shared with her sisters was much deeper than she ever expected. During her time as a collegiate member, she and her sisters worked together to develop their leadership talents and skills. Her positive experience as a collegiate member led Elisse to dedicate herself to serving the organization that gave her so much, filling her life with Alpha Delta Pi and Alpha Delta Pi sisters.

Almost immediately after graduating in May 1964, Elisse joined the Dallas Alumnae Association and has been a member of at least one alumnae group ever since. Additionally, Elisse has gone above and beyond in service to Alpha Delta Pi, spending her time volunteering as a member of Grand Council, International Officer, House Corporation Officer, and as a member of the Foundation's We Believe Campaign Steering Committee. She considers it important to give her time as a token of her gratitude to Alpha Delta Pi.

Elisse extends her gratitude further by giving generously to the Alpha Delta Pi Foundation. She made her first gift to the Foundation in 1983 during its establishment at Grand Convention. Looking back, she remembers how small that initial gift was, yet she is grateful that it was a part of something much larger. That initial gift started her commitment to the Foundation and its mission to Educate, Lead, and Serve Alpha Delta Pi sisters.

When Elisse was recognized as the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence Outstanding Foundation Volunteer in 2019, Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Webb wrote the following in her nomination: "Elisse has taught me as much about fundraising as my professional colleagues have over the years. When faced with the difficult question of how to ask an alumna for a gift whose chapter is closed, Elisse offers an invaluable lesson. She tells women from dormant chapters that giving and staying involved as an alumna is how you will keep your chapter alive. That's exactly what Elisse has done to keep Alpha Zeta at SMU alive and well in Alpha Delta Pi."

Alpha Delta Pi has played such a significant role in Elisse's life that she chose to include a gift to the Alpha Delta Pi Foundation in her estate. Elisse shares why this gift is important, "The values and standards of our sorority are precious to me. I believe those values, standards, and experiences prepare us for our roles as leaders in our families, our churches, our communities, our workplace, and the world. I hope that my gift will help to secure the future of Alpha Delta Pi for others who follow, so that they can experience the joys of sisterhood and the benefits of belonging to an organization that upholds values and standards."

Is a charitable bequest right for you?

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