By Greg Howell, Pacific (CA)

On November 7, 1975, Delta Sigma Pi made history by initiating its first female members, and at the 1977 Congress where this action was ratified, Laurie Gail Senko, Arizona State, first made her mark by taking part in the decision to continue calling all members “brothers”—regardless of their gender. Read more about the historic 1977 Congress.

As we celebrate 50 years since that groundbreaking moment, let’s shine a light on a pioneer whose contributions, passion, and spirit have shaped generations: Laurie Gail Senko—the first woman to receive her Silver Helmet Award and, at the 2025 Grand Chapter Congress, the first women to receive her Golden Helmet for 50 years of dedicated service.

Laurie’s introduction to Delta Sigma Pi came through working with a brother in the comptroller’s office and attending a banquet with another Deltasig. What began as a simple invitation quickly turned into a defining and passionate journey “I just knew it would be a good fit,” she said. “I saw the professionalism and order of the chapter and felt proud to be a part of it.”

Gamma Omega Chapter instilled a deep sense of pride, discipline, and belonging in Laurie, which she keeps with her today. “Even though I grew up insecure and unsure of myself, Delta Sigma Pi helped me find confidence. Eventually, I learned to like myself. I owe that growth to the Fraternity and the brothers who accepted me—even when I didn’t fully accept myself yet.”

Laurie’s contributions to Delta Sigma Pi span five decades and reflect a level of passion that is unmatched. Whether through service, mentoring, or spirited community-building, she has never wavered in her love for the Fraternity. Other Deltasig brothers know her best and in fact, 2014 Deltasig Career Achievement Award Winner Theresa Drew put it best: “Laurie Senko is an inspiration for me. She always has been. She’s like the energizer bunny. She just keeps going. I think she has purple and gold blood in her veins because she’s just everywhere—she lives and breathes the Fraternity.”

Her professional life includes three distinct careers: 18 years in banking, nearly a decade as executive director of a nonprofit providing affordable housing, and almost nine years as a hospital IT trainer (public sector). Through each chapter of her career, her passion for service never dimmed. “Helping people grow—especially when they didn’t yet believe in themselves—was one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” she shared. That same desire to uplift others has been a cornerstone of her Deltasig involvement.

Brother Senko served as Regional Director (now Regional Vice President) of the Desert Mountain Region from 1997 to 1999 and held numerous roles in the Phoenix Thunderbird Alumni Chapter, including President. She also previously served four years as District Director (for all six Arizona chapters, including 3 alumni chapters at that time) and continues leading the way for chapters in their Deltasig journey. In all her roles, she has remained active through the years, giving back with unwavering enthusiasm even when resources were limited. “For a long time, I gave my time and talents because I didn’t have much treasure. Now that I can, I give all three.”

Through the Leadership Foundation, Laurie is able to give back through funds she's passionate about, including the Gamma Omega Chapter Leadership Fund, BASE Fund, Claire Sammon Roberts Women in Leadership Fund, the Collum-Mallonee LGBT Fund, National Collegian of The Year Grant and Veterans’ initiatives. “I want undergraduates to have the same opportunities I did—to travel, attend conferences, and meet brothers across the country. That exposure can be life changing.” Learn more about the funds offered by the Leadership Foundation.

Through all of it, Laurie has remained deeply rooted in her purpose: to share her passion for Delta Sigma Pi and inspire others to do the same. “I stay involved because I was blessed with incredible mentors and experiences. I try to follow in their footsteps. Giving back feels natural—it’s part of who I am.”

When asked what she hopes to be remembered for, Laurie said with a smile, “Someone recently told me, ‘You already have a legacy—you’re the oldest woman still going strong.’ If people remember me for my passion and the fact that I never stopped coming back, then that’s enough.”

Laurie Gail Senko’s story isn’t just about longevity. It’s about legacy, heart, and the kind of passion that brings people together across generations. As she receives her Golden Helmet Award this year, she represents not only history but the very spirit of Delta Sigma Pi—devotion, enthusiasm, and the unshakable joy of brotherhood, and we’re lucky to have her cemented in our history.

PGP Kathy Jahnke (first woman elected Grand President), Theresa Drew, Northern Arizona (first woman to serve on the Board of Directors), and PGP Tricia Bonfrisco (second women elected Grand President) presented Laurie (second from the left) her Golden Helmet during the 2025 Grand Chapter Congress Banquet in August to celebrate Laurie ahead of the 50th anniversary in November. This moment will go down in Deltasig history!