Women's History Month: Q&A with Colleen Coughlin

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.

Colleen Coughlin is an alumna of the Epsilon Iota Chapter at Bridgewater State University and currently serves as chapter key advisor for the Zeta Delta Chapter at Bentley University. Professionally, Colleen is a talent associate for TA Associates, a leading global private equity firm.

I have always been drawn to Colleen and our similarities. We’ve shared similar life journeys and she’s someone who I feel just gets me at the core of who I am. She has always been a dedicated, reliable and solid sister who others can count on and I truly appreciate all she’s dedicated to Phi Sigma Sigma through her volunteer journey. I know the sisters of the Zeta Delta Chapter at Bentley University thrive because of her stead-fast support and lasting passion for our sisterhood.

Tess Stovall: Let’s start off by talking about the role Phi Sigma Sigma has played in your life. What impact has it made?

Colleen Coughlin: Phi Sigma Sigma has played a transformative role in my life by fostering personal growth, leadership development, and lifelong connections. Through our values, I gained confidence in my abilities, developed strong communication and teamwork skills, and formed deep friendships. The Fraternity's emphasis on philanthropy and academic excellence instilled in me a commitment to giving back to my community and striving for excellence by Aiming High in all that I do.

I stay connected with my sisters through alumnae events, professional networking, and volunteer opportunities. The values and leadership skills I developed as a collegian continue to guide me in my personal and professional endeavors, allowing me to support and uplift others as I was once supported.

TS: For all of us, there are particular sisters who’ve had a significant influence on our journeys. Tell me about a Phi Sig and the impact she made on you.

CC: I will never forget the sister who pulled me aside after a chapter meeting and told me she believed I would make a great vice archon. At the time, I was a transfer student who felt like I had missed out on the traditional first-year college experience. I was shy, uncertain of myself and still searching for my voice. Her words of encouragement changed everything. She saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized in myself, and that moment of encouragement set me on a path of personal and professional growth, inspiring me to challenge myself and develop as a leader. Serving on the executive board not only strengthened my confidence but also allowed me to refine my leadership skills and contribute meaningfully to our chapter. I will always be grateful for the sister who believed in me before I even believed in myself—as it had a profound impact on my person and professional development to this day.

TS: It can be so powerful to receive that ‘tap of confidence’ from someone else. And now you get to pay that forward as an advisor, encouraging emerging leaders to have the confidence to put themselves out there. Tell me a little bit about how the volunteer journey started for you.

CC: My journey into volunteering began with a desire to give back to the Fraternity shortly after graduation. Initially, I sought to volunteer to stay connected, but it quickly evolved into a desire to mentor young women striving to become confident and capable leaders. The organization provided me with opportunities to guide and support collegiate members, helping them develop leadership skills, build confidence, and navigate their personal and professional journeys. Over time, volunteering became an integral part of my life, reinforcing my commitment to service and leadership.

TS: As we all know, volunteering isn’t easy; it takes a lot of time and passion. In turn, how has volunteering enriched your life?  

CC: Volunteering with Phi Sigma Sigma has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has shaped both my personal and professional growth. It has given me the opportunity to develop leadership skills, connect with like-minded individuals and mentor collegiate women to help build the next generation of Fraternity leaders. Beyond that, it has strengthened my sense of purpose and reinforced the importance of giving back. The experiences I’ve gained have not only enriched my own life but have also allowed me to positively impact the development of the women of the Zeta Delta Chapter at Bentley University.

TS: And as you reflect on your experience, what is one of your proudest accomplishments as a volunteer?

CC: Working with the Zeta Delta Chapter has been one of my most rewarding accomplishments as a volunteer. These remarkable women have cultivated a strong foundation of sisterhood, earning a reputation at Bentley University for their dedication to scholarship, authenticity, humor and an unbreakable bond that is truly unique. I have witnessed them challenge and support one another—scholastically, personally, and emotionally—always striving to be their best while creating a fun and inclusive sisterhood. It’s in the small, heartfelt moments—cheering each other on from the sidelines, playing their favorite song before every recruitment party—that I see the true depth of their sisterhood. Having the privilege of mentoring such an exceptional chapter has been an incredible experience, and I am honored to have a front-row seat to their growth and success.

TS: I know that all you’ve poured into the chapter has had such an immense impact on these women’s experience and I love hearing how rewarding it’s been for you. For sisters who might not be involved and are looking to reconnect with Phi Sigma Sigma, what advice would you give them?

CC: Start by reaching out to local alumnae, put in an inquiry with Headquarters or talk with chapter sisters who currently volunteer. There are many ways to get involved, whether through mentoring collegiate members, attending networking events, participating in philanthropy efforts or volunteering at the Fraternity level.

Reengagement doesn’t have to be overwhelming—taking small steps, such as attending a local chapter philanthropy event or connecting with fellow alumnae, can reignite your passion for the organization and remind you of the lifelong bonds we share.