Meet Sandy Crays, Indiana Beta

Pi Beta Phi recognizes Indiana Beta Sandy Crays with the 2024 Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award for her efforts in community service.  

What advice would you give to other Pi Phis who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities? 
Volunteering provides an opportunity to demonstrate your leadership, commitment, your values and your work ethic. Even more importantly, it helps whatever organization you choose to support.    

In what ways do you believe your experiences as a Pi Phi have uniquely prepared you for your community service?  
When the high standards that one learns as a Pi Phi are demonstrated, it will prepare a member to be extremely valuable and appreciated by any company or profession.   


What motivates and inspires you to continue your efforts in community service?   
I have been involved all my life in my various communities. I learned very young that you always “give back”. Contributing at any level is so rewarding and appreciated. It has been an asset to me in my work life, and now, even as a retiree, I feel very rewarded for whatever I can do for the groups I support.    

What do you love most about giving back?  
Being able to make a difference gives me such a feeling of joy. 

"Pi Beta Phi has taught me..."
Mostly, to appreciate the deep friendships that last! No matter where you meet a Pi Phi, or at what stage of our lives, these friendships are unique and special. There is truly a bond that can’t always be described; however, it is there! 

What is something you wish you would have known sooner in life?  
I would have joined an alumnae club earlier. I thought I was too young and missed opportunities that now I know exist. There is almost always flexibility in alumnae group schedules, and I would encourage graduates to continue the joy and friendship, no matter where their location or age, to take advantage of the deep connection of this sisterhood, earlier rather than later.     

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Stay positive and always be kind to others.  

How do you measure personal success? 
To me, it is now the valuable connections of friendships and being the best person that I can be every single day.

Published September 2, 2025