DaytonDailyNews.com

Back when Rae Ann Herman was a freshman at Ohio Wesleyan University, she sought out a way to meet new friends on campus.

That led her to a sorority — Pi Beta Phi — and it led her to lifelong friendships that grow warmer through the years.

Today, she's president of the Dayton Alumnae Club of Pi Beta Phi, continuing to nurture old friendships and assist the new members of the sorority on the University of Dayton campus.

"We are the oldest fraternal organization for women in the United States," Herman said.

The Iota chapter at UD was formed in 1989. The local alumni group has about 70 active members and they spend their time helping with the local chapter, working on committees and attending social events.

Their main purpose is to promote lasting friendships. Many of the women are involved in other civic organizations.

Literacy is a focus, too. The group collects books for the Ohio Literacy Council. Last year they collected books and provided snacks to a Kettering classroom.

But what about members of Pi Beta Phi who might need a hand?

Herman relates the story of a Pi who worked as a pizza delivery driver and broke her foot. She couldn't continue her job and needed financial help.

"Due to instances like that," Herman said, "we decided we had to come up with a way to have some dollars available."

Five years ago, the idea of a Floral Fantasy was suggested, something that had been tried successfully in the Chicago area. The members agreed, "We'll give it a try," Herman said.

In that past four years, they've collected more than $20,000.

The fifth annual Floral Fantasy is Nov. 6 at the Parkview Church of the Nazarene, 4701 Far Hills Ave., in Kettering. The program begins at 7 p.m. but the doors open at 6:15 p.m.

A limited number of tickets are available at $15. Call Carolyn Young at (937) 433-8447 to reserve a ticket.

Designers from three florists — The Flower Shoppe, Furst Florist and Hills and Dales Florist — will produce 18 unique floral pieces that also will serve as door prizes.

Adele Good, a well-known local gardening expert, will be commentator, while a video screen will provide a detailed view as each designer works.

The evening includes various raffles and a silent auction. Hors d'oeuveres, coffee, cookies and punch will be served.

Herman, who serves as liaison for the University of Dayton's Pi Beta Phi chapter, will have current members helping with the event. They'll carry the finished arrangements around the room for closer inspection.

Herman, 46, and her husband, Augie, are Miamisburg residents. They have one daughter.

Herman has been a member of the Alumnae Club since she graduated from college in 1984. She taught junior high school in West Carrollton for about 10 years.

Contact this reporter at (937) 696-2080 or williamgschmidt@

verizon.net.