Signed, Sealed, and Still Connected
Pi Beta Phi builds ties that last.
For 60 years, a group of UND Pi Beta Phi sisters has stayed connected through an annual newsletter.
The women share milestones, memories, and everyday moments. Though the format has evolved, the purpose remains: preserving the friendships that began all those years ago.
The tradition started in 1965, when Avis (Goheen) Tvedt, ’64, mailed a letter to her fellow Pi Phis asking for updates. Everyone wrote back. Early editors, including Avis, Liz (Skarperud) Eggers, ’64, and Pat (McBride) Leonard, ’64, retyped at least 20 letters on mimeograph sheets and mailed the first edition.
The Pi Beta Phi sisters from the class of 1964 share memories, updates, and more in a 60-year-old newsletter.
“Their effort and commitment were monumental,” said Mary (Carlson) Dykstra, ’64, who served as editor in 2024 and 2025. “It is so simple now, the whole thing can be done electronically.”
Over time, the newsletter grew to include the classes of 1963 and 1965, with sisters taking turns as editor. For many years, the newsletter was known as “Pi Phi Palaver.”
Unlike a holiday letter, the Pi Phi newsletter feels personal, often including book, movie, and travel recommendations. When Mary showed her daughter the newsletter from the year she was born, she said, “Mom, this is our family history.”
The letters have chronicled joyful reunions, heavy moments like the 1997 flood, and the many ways these women give back — from playing piano in church to serving on city councils and nonprofit boards. “One of our sisters became a judge,” Mary said. “They’ve all given their time to make their communities better.”
The newsletter also sparks fond memories of UND days. “Our chef Flossie started feeding Pi Phis in January 1933. She made the best desserts,” Mary said, adding that the housemother, Gladys Trydahl, who served from 1960-70, wrote a letter every year through 1988.
Six decades in, and the Pi Phi newsletter remains an annual highlight. “I hope our story inspires other groups to start something like this,” Mary said.
Their effort and commitment were monumental.Mary (Carlson) Dykstra, ’64
What’s Next for the Pi Phi House?
Earlier this year, the national chapter of Pi Beta Phi approached UND about purchasing the sorority house, which required a substantial investment to make it livable. UND, the UND Alumni Association & Foundation (UNDAAF), and Pi Phi alumnae reviewed several options, and the property was ultimately purchased by UNDAAF.
UNDAAF is now collaborating with UND and an external focus group to determine the best future use for the site. The goal is to ensure the property aligns with the University’s needs and that resources are used responsibly.
