Pasadena Pi Beta Phi Alumnae Club Marks Centennial With Festive Celebration

The Pasadena Alumnae Club of Pi Beta Phi commemorated its 100th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 15, gathering alumnae from 26 collegiate chapters for a festive celebratory luncheon. Founded on June 1, 1924, the Club is one of the oldest and few remaining active alumnae groups in the Los Angeles area.

Club President Barbie Blake presided over the event, recognizing national Pi Beta Phi leaders and past Club presidents in attendance. 

Special acknowledgment was given to 50-year “Golden Arrow” members and Pat Korbel, a 75-year “Diamond Arrow” Pi Phi.

Jane Laudeman provided historical context, detailing the Club’s activities since the 1920s and highlighting notable Pasadena-area members. These included actress Maudie Prickett, philanthropist Dorothy Buffum Chandler, and civic leader Evelyn Peters Kyle.

The Club’s philanthropic efforts have supported both Pasadena area charitable organizations and Pi Beta Phi national initiatives, focusing on education and literacy. Blake applauded members’ generous support over the years and announced a special centennial donation to Pi Beta Phi, accepted by Executive Director Shawn Eagleburger.

Since its inception, the Pasadena Club has played host to four Pi Beta Phi Conventions, with the first held at the Huntington Hotel in 1929. This legacy of leadership and service has characterized the Club’s century-long presence in the community.

The centennial celebration was organized by a committee of local alumnae, including Blake, Jan Clifford, Jane Armel, Aliya Coher, Angela Howell, Dee Thiesmeyer, Heather Lenkin, Jane Laudeman, Katy Hedrick, Kelli Hammon, Liz Anderson, Ann Boutin, Margaret Hostrup, Stephani Tyler, Terry Cross and Winnie Reitnouer. 

Those seeking more information about the Pasadena Alumnae Club can contact piphipasadena100@gmail.com.