An Advisor’s Impact
Abigail Robnett (Upsilon 2020/Central Arkansas) joined Alpha Sigma Tau at the peak of COVID-19 as a first-year student. As the daughter and niece of Alpha Sigma Taus from the Upsilon Chapter, this was something Abigail had been looking forward to in her college experience.
However, at the same time that she started college, her family moved to Nashville so that her younger brother could receive treatment for his recent leukemia diagnosis. Emotionally, Abigail was struggling and found herself isolated from her chapter Sisters because they weren’t able to meet regularly. Her struggles turned into academic probation and a meeting with the Tau Honor Council, the Sorority’s accountability process for collegiate chapters.
While this would have been a rock-bottom moment for some, Abigail credits her Tau Honor Council meeting as a turning point. The Upsilon Chapter Advisor, Callie France Sterling (Upsilon 2010/Central Arkansas), challenged her to think about the path she wanted to be on and how to make choices that would help her get there.
Callie said, “I had a lot of empathy for Abigail when I heard her story. She missed half of her high school senior year, started college, experienced a global pandemic, and all while her family navigated her brother’s diagnosis simultaneously. It was a lot. A lot for anyone, but especially for a young person. I reached out to her to check on her, and quickly we formed a genuine bond and friendship.”
Abigail decided to focus on her schoolwork and grades, with the support of the Member Development team. Bolstered by the support of her chapter, she also chose to run for an officer position and served as the Director of Structured Recruitment from 2021–2022. She is considering running for an Executive Committee position again soon. Her renewed connections with the chapter also led to babysitting gigs and job opportunities!
She firmly believes that without the support and encouragement of her Sisters and advisors, especially Callie, she would not be doing as well. “I feel seen and heard in this room,” Abigail said. Members continuously check in on her and affirm that she’s a great member and leader, which in turn encourages and motivates Abigail to continue her hard work and give back to the chapter.
“The growth and maturity that I’ve witnessed makes me incredibly proud. Abigail continually puts herself out there and stays involved on our campus. She is so resilient,” said Callie.
The Upsilon Chapter, and the entire Greek community at the University of Central Arkansas, also supported her family during her brother’s battle with cancer. Abigail recently organized a Be the Match drive, which helps identify possible matches for stem cell transplants for cancer patients, and was overwhelmed by the love and support her family received.
Abigail said, “I just want other people to know that not everyone is perfect and gets off to a good or easy start, but it’s okay. There’s so much support here – Alpha Tau is the reason I am where I am and why I’m doing so well.” She remains inspired to stay involved and find ways to give to the organization that has given her so much.