Meet an Advisor: Courtney Krzywon Rozovics

Courtney Krzywon Rozovics (Beta Pi 2004/Eastern Illinois) found advising in the classroom. More specifically, her practicum classroom when she was a collegiate member of the Beta Pi Chapter at Eastern Illinois University. “The teacher I worked with went to EIU and was the chapter advisor for another sorority on campus. Her position intrigued me,” she said. 

After graduating, Courtney contacted Headquarters and the Delta Delta Chapter at the University of Illinois at Chicago to see how she could get involved, whether as an advisor or in other capacities. She shared, “Being their chapter advisor was not on my radar because I thought they already had one. But they did not—and the chapter president was very excited when I reached out. Now, I’ve been advising for 18 years!” 

While serving as their advisor, she started her career in special education and is currently a multiple disabilities special education teacher overseeing two classrooms. Additionally, Courtney currently serves as a teacher mentor for her district, is on the executive board for the local chapter of the Illinois Education Association, and became a National Board Certified Teacher after a rigorous two-year process. 

Yet, she was still willing to jump in when the Beta Pi Chapter needed support in 2023. As an advisor, Courtney had the opportunity to attend National Conventions and other events that allowed her to connect with Beta Pi alumnae and collegians. “I was aware of their struggles and expressed an interest in helping,” she said. “I was more than willing to put in the work to support both chapters.” 

She was appointed as Beta Pi’s Chapter Advisor and quickly got more support, recommending two local Beta Pi alumnae for the Chapter Advisory Board. Courtney said, “It’s always wonderful to have other people to bounce ideas off of and problem-solve with. We all bring different talents to the table, so responsibilities can be shared and we can be a stronger, more effective team.” 

Since then, the three advisors have worked together to educate, support, and motivate the Beta Pi members, especially regarding recruitment and retention. With stronger advisory support, Courtney was able to move into the Operations and Finance Advisor role later that same year. “I feel like my work has strengthened my bond with the collegiate women of both chapters and renewed my passion for Alpha Sigma Tau as a whole,” she shared. 

With her busy schedule, Courtney primarily advises virtually, using text, email, and online meetings.  She said, “I use a meeting scheduling app that allows members from both chapters to have access to my calendar and schedule at a convenient time for them.” Additionally, she meets one-on-one with Executive Committee officers from both chapters to discuss SMART goals, upcoming deadlines, and other questions and concerns at least twice a month. 

She prioritizes attending special events where the chapter might need more hands-on support, which, in turn, allows for some of Courtney’s favorite advising moments. “I love watching the collegians’ experiences at these events and reminiscing about my time as a collegian. I also enjoy watching alumnae and collegians come together, like at Delta Delta’s 30th Anniversary event this semester or Beta Pi’s alumnae weekend last year,” she shared. 

These alumnae-centric events also help illustrate the bigger picture of Alpha Sigma Tau. Courtney explained, “One of the most challenging parts of advising is helping our collegians see the big picture. We talk a lot about how the Sorority is larger than just their chapter and how each member represents the organization. I think alumnae events help them understand that this is not just a college experience; it’s for life.” 

For Courtney, the “for life” part of her Sorority experience is invaluable—and a huge reason why she gives her time back so freely. She said, “Many people do not understand why I continue to be an advisor, especially since I am so involved in my career. But being an advisor is one of the most rewarding things I have done. It’s a passion that fills my heart with so much joy. I would not be the woman I am today without Alpha Sigma Tau, and I want to ensure that each collegiate member has the same positive experience to reflect fondly on for years to come.” 

Thank you to Courtney and all the advisors who help our collegiate women grow, learn, and improve daily!

Interested in advising?

The Alpha Sigma Tau collegiate experience depends on the positive support and effort of Chapter Advisory Board (CAB) members—dedicated volunteers who work closely with the local collegiate chapter officers. 

If you enjoy working with college students, advancing the mission of Alpha Sigma Tau, and ensuring our Sisterhood is the safest place for women to be on campus, consider applying to become an advisor today.

Learn more about advising and start the application process to become an advisor here!