Alpha Delta Pi Shaping My DanceBlue Journey - Sarah Tackett

Joining Alpha Delta Pi was one of the best decisions I made in college. From the start, I was welcomed into a community of strong, like-minded women who shared my passion for service and leadership. The recruitment process quickly showed me that ADPi was more than just a sorority—it was a place where I could challenge myself, find unwavering support, and be surrounded by women who inspired me every day. My sisters encouraged me to pursue my ambitions with confidence, and it was through their support that I found the courage to take on leadership roles within DanceBlue. DanceBlue, an organization I’ve been passionate about since high school and dedicated to supporting the Kentucky Children’s Hospital Hematology and Oncology Clinic, was a cause I was determined to continue supporting at UK. Little did I know then how much Alpha Delta Pi would shape my journey and provide opportunities to lead, serve, and grow in ways I never imagined.

As a freshman, I became co-captain of the Polished Diamonds team, encouraged by Anneli White, who recognized my potential and set the example for me to follow. While working alongside my co-captain, and now one of my best friends, Ella Martin, we led our team to raise nearly $7,000. The backing of our ADPi sisters made every bake sale, fundraiser, and late-night planning session a success.

My sophomore year, with the encouragement of my sisters, I joined the Operations Committee, a role that fit me perfectly and strengthened my confidence in my abilities. I will never forget the feeling of walking into my first committee meeting that fall with one of my best friends, Mackenzee Gearheart, and realizing just how many ADPi sisters were involved in DanceBlue. Their presence and leadership reassured me that I was part of a sisterhood deeply committed to this mission. Living in the sorority house with my best friends and working alongside sisters dedicated to making an impact, I knew I had found my place and was truly living out my dream at UK.

Now, in my junior year, I have stepped into my most rewarding role yet as Volunteer Coordinator for the Operations Committee. This opportunity would not have been possible without the belief and encouragement of Avery Day, who recognized my leadership potential and entrusted me with this responsibility. My sisters' support, whether as committee chairs, coordinators, or members, has given me the confidence to lead and succeed in this position. Seeing my sisters sign up to volunteer at the marathon, knowing that they are not only supporting DanceBlue but also supporting my leadership, shows how I have truly been blessed with this sisterhood.

To Anneli White, thank you for pushing me to take that first step. To Ella Martin, for being the best co-captain and an even better friend. To Riley Fort and Sophie Brown, for setting the standard of leadership I strive to follow. To Lakin Puckett, for guiding me toward a role that allowed me to grow. To Kaley Sloan, for showing me what strong, consistent leadership looks like. To Avery Day, for trusting me and believing in my abilities. To Meghan Ratliff, for bringing joy, passion, and purpose to this mission. To Jenna Danneman, thank you for your unwavering leadership and dedication. To Marissa Sautkus, for being a steady presence and supporting me every step of the way. To Mackenzee Gearheart, for making every DanceBlue event more exciting and for always being the person I look for in the room. To Lauren Worley, for being a constant source of encouragement. To Madison Bush, for being my big, my best friend, and my greatest supporter

To my sisters outside of the DanceBlue Committee, your impact has been just as meaningful. The small acts of support from Cami Pinter helping me prepare for events, to Savannah King offering rides to meetings and the marathon, and to everyone who helped me sell over 1,000 chocolate bars have not gone unnoticed. This journey and my accomplishments would not have been possible without each of you.

Alpha Delta Pi has not only given me the friendships I always dreamed of but also the opportunities to lead, grow, and serve in ways I never imagined. As I look forward to my senior year, I am inspired by the sisters before me who have left their mark on both DanceBlue and ADPi, and I am determined to do the same. This sisterhood has been one of my greatest blessings, and I am forever grateful for the impact we have made together.

Pi Love and Joy Prevails,

Sarah Tackett