Scholar Spotlight: Ella McClenny

Name: Ella McClenny

Hometown: Culpeper, VA

Chapter: Theta Mu–Randolph-Macon College 

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Sociology and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies

Scholarship Received: Northern Virginia Alumnae Scholarship

What does it mean to you to be part of a sisterhood that extends beyond your collegiate years?  

My time in Tri Sigma has taught me that sisterhood is forever, not just the brief time spent in college. I joined Tri Sigma after transferring to Randolph-Macon College my junior year. Despite my relatively short time as a member, I have made lifelong friends that will continue to be a part of my life for many years to come. My sisters have meant the world to me and have inspired me every day to embody our core values of wisdom, power, faith, hope, and love. These women have been my roommates, my closest confidants, and will one day be my bridesmaids. Although I am graduating, I know that I will always call Tri Sigma home. As an alumna, I hope to continue supporting my chapter and others by staying connected and active in the sorority community. I am so grateful for all of the women in Tri Sigma who have made me the confident and compassionate leader I am today.

How has your membership in Tri Sigma challenged you to grow as an individual or a leader?  

My time in Tri Sigma gave me so many opportunities for personal and professional growth. I served as Honor Council Chair and Alumnae Relations Manager throughout my time in the chapter. Although I was not originally elected to the Honor Council, my sisters saw my potential and believed in me every step of the way. My time as Honor Council Chair challenged me to learn time management, set healthy boundaries, and use empathetic leadership. I was inspired to reflect on my own actions and how I represented my chapter. This encouraged me to become the best person I could be to best support the women in my chapter. These skills have directly supported my goal of pursuing a career in advocacy. As a leader of my chapter, I have endeavored to leave a legacy of compassion and mindfulness. The support I've received has been invaluable in the lifelong process of learning and personal growth.

How does receiving this scholarship support your ability to focus on your academic goals and Sigma leadership? 

Receiving the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Scholarship had a profound impact on my education. As the daughter of divorced parents, I primarily reside with my mother. Due to financial difficulties, my mother was unable to directly contribute to my college tuition. I began my college career at Germanna Community College where I earned my associate's degree while working part-time at a local restaurant to reduce the financial stress. Upon transferring to Randolph-Macon College to complete my bachelor's degree, I was again faced with serious financial concerns. The generous donors of the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Scholarship eased my financial burden, allowing me to focus on my education and leadership. This financial relief provided greater opportunities to strengthen my bonds with my sisters and allowed me to serve as the Honor Council Chair. I am endlessly grateful for the wonderful opportunities I have been given because of this scholarship.

If you could share one message with the donor(s) who made this scholarship possible, what would it be?  

I resolve to use this generosity to make a positive impact on my community. The privilege of attending college is not one that I take for granted. I am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities I have been given and the people who have made them possible. My time as an undergraduate student has inspired me to pursue a career in advocacy and serve marginalized and underprivileged groups in my community. I am passionate about creating positive changes on both individual and systemic levels, and this scholarship has enabled me to pursue this dream. I am eternally grateful to have received so much support. As Tri Sigma women know, to receive much, we must give much—therefore, I will give my all to my community as I embrace this next chapter of my life.

What accomplishments are you most proud of so far in your academic and/or personal journey?  

I am most proud of my acceptance into the Zeta of Virginia Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest academic honor society. This academic honor is emblematic of my efforts in academic excellence and exemplary conduct. I have always loved the process of learning and taken my studies incredibly seriously.

I have also used my time in Tri Sigma to strengthen my leadership abilities; however, power must always be tempered with the values of wisdom and love. Throughout my time as an undergraduate student, I have considered my values and how they shape the woman I want to become. Kindness, integrity, and perseverance are among the values I hold most dear. I have accepted my invitation to Phi Beta Kappa with the utmost gratitude, and I will represent the ideals of this membership to the best of my ability.

How do you hope to pay it forward to the Tri Sigma Foundation or your community in the future?  

I hope to join an alumnae chapter in the Richmond area and support my local community. I also hope to make a positive impact by volunteering with local nonprofit groups and donating to causes that I believe in. Supporting women and their children is a cause that is close to my heart, and supporting local organizations such as safe houses and women’s shelters is incredibly important to me. I hope to always embody the values of Tri Sigma and honor the many people who have supported me along my journey. My time in Tri Sigma gave me more than I could have imagined, and I am so incredibly grateful for my sisters and their steadfast support. Without them, I would not be the person I am today.