Q&A with Past Grand Archon Alicia Scott

In celebration of Women's History Month, Grand Archon Tess Stovall sits down with a series of Phi Sigma Sigma sisters to share their stories, advice and how our sisterhood made a lasting impact in their lives. Read more stories, here.

Dr. Alicia Scott served as Grand Archon from 2011-2017. She is an alumna of the Beta Psi Chapter at the University of Florida and currently serves on the National Housing Corporation Board of Directors. Professionally, Alicia is a school psychologist at the Alachua County Public Schools and is the immediate past president of the Florida Association of School Psychologist. Additionally, she is an adjunct lecturer at her alma matter, the University of Florida.

Tess Stovall: What do you believe is the biggest asset of Phi Sigma Sigma membership? And how has it played a role in your life?

Alicia Scott: To me, the biggest asset of being a Phi Sigma Sigma is the connections we make throughout our membership. Our sisterhood offers a built-in support network of women who share your values. From women I went to college with to those I met as an alumna, I have lifelong friends who I cherish.

The connections go beyond friendships though. I am a better leader because of the opportunities I’ve had through Phi Sigma Sigma. My sisters have supported and challenged me, which has helped me refine my leadership skills and develop new skills. No matter what your profession, so many sorority skills translate into the real world! The other amazing things about the Phi Sig network is that if you have a challenge, are looking for a job, are moving to a new place, or want to know more about something, there is a sister who can help you. One of my favorite things is connecting sisters with other sisters and hearing from others about connections they have made.

TS: Let's talk a little bit more about the lifelong friendships you've made through Phi Sigma Sigma. Tell me about a Phi Sigma Sigma sister who has had a significant influence in your life and why?

AS: I actually have two sisters I want to share about. Past Grand Archon Josette George had a profound influence on my life. I met her when I was a junior in college, while she was serving as director of finance (what we now call Grand Vice Archon - Finance). I was really impressed by her and left our meeting wishing I could get to know her better. As luck would have it, Josette saw a little spark in me and we kept in touch. She is the reason that I am a Phi Sigma Sigma volunteer. When she called as told me I should volunteer, I was really honored and knew I could not refuse. Over the years, Josette became my mentor and my friend. She was my sounding board, my reality check and my cheerleader. No matter what project or leadership position I took on, Josette never stopped pushing me to grow and develop. She lifted me up and encouraged me, and she always made sure that I knew how proud she was of me. I strongly believe that she is one of the reasons that I have developed into the leader I am today.

Past Grand Archon Dr. Florence Denmark (known to us as Flossie) has also had an impact on me. I am always excited to find connections with fellow psychologists and Flossie is a superhero in the world of psychologists. She entered the field when it was male-dominated and became one of the pioneers in the study of the psychology of women. Flossie also researched and advocated for minoritized populations. She served as the fifth female president of the American Psychological Association (APA), the leading scientific and professional organization for psychologists in the United States. I am not going to lie, I fangirled a little when I first met Flossie at Phi Sigma Sigma’s Centennial. She was just as remarkable as I imagined, and I am grateful that the Fraternity has allowed me to connect with her.

TS: You've remained connected to Phi Sigma Sigma throughout your life. Why do you believe it is important to stay connected to our sisterhood and what benefits do we offer sisters after graduation?

AS: Staying connected after graduation means that you never lose track of your Phi Sigma Sigma network. And staying connected can look different for different people. For many, volunteering is an ideal way to give back. It provides a sense of purpose, helps us to develop new skills, and creates new opportunities for friendships. For others, staying connected through their chapter’s or the Fraternity’s alumnae outreach, keeping their address on file with Headquarters up-to-date, or donating to the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation is meaningful. It’s my hope that sisters will stay connected throughout their lives because Phi Sigma Sigma is a place we all belong. Once, Always.