02/21/2026
As we celebrate Alpha Phi Foundation’s 70th birthday with our countdown, we are taking a moment to honor the dedicated alumnae who volunteer their time and professional expertise to guide our mission.
Today, we are highlighting the vital role of our Medical Readers. These sisters are medical professionals with backgrounds spanning both research and clinical work. They review and evaluate every Heart to Heart Grant application, ensuring that your donations fund the most rigorous and impactful research.
Ashlyn Lowder (Theta Nu-Alpha Phi at Appalachian State University), a 2026 Medical Reader and Physician Assistant in a Cardiovascular ICU, shared her powerful perspective on why this work matters so much: “Reading through the submissions gave me a powerful reminder of how many individuals and organizations are working tirelessly to improve cardiovascular care... As a Physician Assistant that works in the Cardiovascular ICU, I care for critically ill patients facing complex cardiac conditions every day. I see firsthand the devastating impact that cardiovascular disease can have on individuals and families, but I also witness the incredible difference that research, education, early intervention, and compassionate care can make. Being able to contribute my clinical perspective to the grant review process felt like a meaningful extension of the work I do at the bedside.”
The Heart of Our Process
By bridging the gap between clinical practice and philanthropic investment, Medical Readers help Alpha Phi Foundation select finalists—like the seven institutions announced for 2026—who are truly moving the needle in women’s cardiac health. Following this peer review, top-scoring finalists participate in interviews with our Heart to Heart Advisory Council before a final recipient is selected by a majority vote.
We are so grateful for sisters who bring their "white coat" expertise back to Alpha Phi to help us lead with heart.
