FSL's Be Beautiful Role Model Fashion Show

Last Tuesday was James Madison University Panhellenic's Sixth Annual Be Beautiful Role Model Fashion Show, put on to honor Greek women who’s inner beauty shines bright throughout our community. The proceeds raised were donated to JMU Panhellenic’s philanthropy First Step, a local domestic violence center for women. Rent-The-Runway also provided dresses for the models to wear as we recognized each one separately on the stage. It was a really special opportunity to show our appreciation for the beautiful women in each chapter. While watching our sisters strut their stuff, we enjoyed cookies and juice and an outstanding performance by JMU’s female a cappella group Note-oreity (where we also got to hear our amazing sister Nicole Malthaner). All in all it was a really fun celebration!

Laura and Alexa throwing up their anchors

While supporting our sisters, Alexa Johnson and Laura Green, as well as other beautiful sisters from other chapters, we were able to help raise over $1,000! We are incredibly proud of these ladies, as well as the other role models we have in the Psi chapter. 

Here’s what Psi's inspiring role models have to say about the event:

What was it like behind the scenes of the event?

Laura: Behind the scenes was pretty confusing, no one was really sure what to expect. We knew that they would be using what the person who no

minated us said, but everyone was pretty anxious.

Alexa: Behind the scenes wasn't as crazy as I thought it'd be. The day before we got to try on which dress we wanted to wear, and the first one I tried on was SO tight I thought I would end up fainting on stage!  Then good ol' Cate Jensen handed me a cream Herve Leger number that ended up working perfectly.

Were you nervous?

Laura: I don’t really like to be on stage or be the center of attention, so I would say that was what I was most nervous about. I kept having to tell myself this is a huge honor and it would all be worth it afterwards

Alexa: The thing that made me the most nervous was finding an escort. Luckily, the FSL graduate assistant (that I actually ended up knowing from my old job) was there for my rescue.  He's a funny guy and helped me make my appearance on stage goofy.

How do you stay positive in your daily life?

Alexa: Focusing on the positive and practicing gratitude. I live a very lucky life and try to remind myself that each day. Taking and teaching yoga, hanging out with my girlfriends, writing and traveling also help me appreciate life. In today's society, it can be so easy to let unpleasant thoughts wander into your mind - especially with social media that promote unnecessary social comparison.  When I feel down, I tell myself that being sad or stressed are just feelings we all must experience in life, and that will inevitably pass. No matter how privileged you are, life isn't easy.  But if you stay strong and look on the bright side, you will always have a much better time.  I am a firm believer in promoting self-love in young women. I am also a big sucker for keeping inspirational post-it's on my mirror and Googling "cute puppies" once a day, if not hour.

What is the most important part about being a role model?

Laura: Being a role model isn’t something you're conscious of, you may strive to set a good example but respect from your peers isn’t something you can forcibly gain.  Being nominated by my sisters who are some of the people I respect most in this world was extremely gratifying and will help me to be more positive in the future.

Alexa: A role model is a person whose qualities and behaviors you can look up to.  They are people who have struggled, in one way or another, but have risen to the top regardless. They accept you, encourage you, and most of all inspire you to be the best person you can be.  For me, being a role model in AST means making my sisters feel loved and appreciated, and emphasizing that if you do the right thing, karma will present you with some amazing opportunities!

Wow!!! These girls sure are impressive :)

Laura's roommates kissing her on the cheek

Alexa posing with her best friend Connie