“Hi everyone! My name is Mackenzie Heberer, and I am so grateful to serve as the President of the Xi Phi chapter of Delta Zeta at UMKC. Being a part of this organization has shaped my college experience in ways I never could have imagined. The women I have the privilege of serving alongside inspire me every day through their kindness, dedication, and willingness to support one another. I am incredibly grateful to stand among women who push me to grow and who I am proud to call my sisters for life.

Delta Zeta was founded on six core values: friendship, belonging, curiosity, empowerment, generosity, and community. These values guide the way we interact with one another and the way we represent Delta Zeta both on campus and beyond. When I first came to UMKC, I was searching for a place where I felt a true sense of belonging, and that is exactly what I found in this sisterhood. Our chapter is filled with women from many different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, and that diversity is something that makes our sisterhood so strong. As President, I have been working to emphasize the mindset of “we before me,” reminding our members that our greatest strength comes from putting the needs of others before ourselves. When we choose to support one another first, we build a stronger sisterhood where everyone feels valued and encouraged to succeed.

Our chapter also takes pride in being involved throughout the UMKC community. Many of our members participate in other student organizations and take on leadership roles both within Delta Zeta and across campus. These experiences allow our sisters to grow as leaders while continuing to represent the values of our organization. Whether it is helping a sister succeed academically, supporting a campus initiative, or simply being there for someone when they need encouragement, our members continually demonstrate what it means to lead with a “we before me” mentality.

One aspect of this sorority that makes me especially proud to be a Delta Zeta is our passion for our philanthropic efforts. Delta Zeta is the only global women’s organization with a focus on hearing and speech, a mission that reflects our commitment to service and advocacy. Our national philanthropies include the Starkey Hearing Foundation, the American Society for Deaf Children, and the SeriousFun Children's Network. The Starkey Hearing Foundation works to bring the gift of hearing to individuals who live in a silent world and has provided more than 1.5 million hearing healthcare services to people in need around the globe. The American Society for Deaf Children supports families of hearing parents with deaf children by providing resources that help them communicate and connect with their child. The SeriousFun Children's Network creates unforgettable camp experiences for children living with serious illnesses, allowing them to enjoy opportunities that may not otherwise be possible while connecting with others facing similar challenges. In addition to these national efforts, our chapter proudly supports our local philanthropy, KC Paws, where we support the rescue and care of animals within the Kansas City community. Through volunteering and fundraising, our members are able to make a direct impact locally while strengthening our commitment to service.

Being surrounded by women who come from different walks of life yet share the same commitment to kindness, leadership, and service is something I will always be grateful for. Delta Zeta has given me friendships that will last a lifetime, memories I will always cherish, and a community that continues to inspire me every day. The value of “we before me” reminds us that when we support one another and lead with compassion, we create something far greater than ourselves. I am incredibly thankful for every step that led me to Delta Zeta and proud to be part of a sisterhood that continues to uplift each other and make a meaningful impact on the world around us.”