Member Spotlight: Morgan Bonekovic

February 26, 2021

As Black History Month comes to a close it is important to remember celebrating Black culture isn’t limited to the 28 (or 29) days set aside every year on the calendar. As Delta Zetas we celebrate the uniqueness and diversity of all our members 365 days of the year. Alumna and past 35 Under 35 honoree Mogan Bonekovic, Zeta Phi-Slippery Rock, had a chance to chat with us about her Delta Zeta journey, what Black History Month means to her and more!

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time to reflect. It is a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black people to society—in science, in art, in literature and in social justice. It is a time to honor the memories of those who faced challenges, celebrate those who have overcome challenges, and recognize that we are still facing challenges.

Is there anything you wish your Delta Zeta sisters knew about Black culture?

I wish everyone would take the time to learn about Black culture, and not just during Black History Month. Ask questions, educate yourselves, and confront any implicit biases you may have.

Tell us how your Delta Zeta journey began.

My first semester in college I was on the basketball team. After deciding not to continue playing basketball, I was looking for another way to be involved on campus and meet new people. I never thought that I’d join a sorority. My roommate convinced me to go through recruitment, and the rest is history. I knew I wanted to join Delta Zeta as soon as I met my future sisters—they were kind and welcoming and provided me with the camaraderie I missed from playing basketball. What I didn’t know, however, was that I’d be provided with copious leadership opportunities, meet lifelong friends, and gain valuable networking connections.

Tell us about a pivotal or empowering moment you have had as a member of Delta Zeta.

In 2011 I received the Florence Hood Minor Award. It was empowering to receive national recognition from Delta Zeta and knowing I was making a positive impact on my campus and chapter.

Tell us about your most fond memory as a Delta Zeta or a member who has made an impact on your life.

It is hard to choose just one! One of my more recent favorite memories happened as an alumna. I was at a pool party at my friend’s house, and her mom and aunt started talking about their college memories. The topic of sororities came up, and her aunt said she was a Delta Zeta. I got very excited and shouted that I was a Delta Zeta too–and it turns out there were four of us in attendance that were Delta Zeta alumnae! It’s those moments that make you realize that Delta Zeta can be so much more than the years when you are an active member.

How has your membership experience evolved as an alumna?

My membership has continually evolved as an alumna. I was an Educational Leadership Consultant for one year after I graduated from college. I later went on to become an alumnae advisor for my chapter, Zeta Phi at Slippery Rock, and then later for the Omicron Chapter at the University of Pittsburgh. I am also a member of the Three Rivers Alumnae Chapter in Pittsburgh. It is so important to me to give back to Delta Zeta, as they have provided me with so many opportunities to grow and evolve both while I was an active member and alumnae.

Want to share your Delta Zeta story? Email your story to [email protected].