SICKLE & SHEAF THE MAGAZINE OF ALPHA GAMMA RHO AGRICULTURE FRATERNITY âžť SPRING 2015
Getting to Know Dad
Purdue alumnus initiate comes to know his late father
In praise of Fraternity Life A much-needed response to the negative stereotypes
Field Notes
Chapters Report their Most Significant Accomplishments
THE NEW WEST
Iowa State alumnus Andrew Lauver has a front row seat to both agricultural and Fraternity expansion on the Western Canada Prairie
In Earnest
Why I Give:
Pivotal Decision Points FOUNDATION DONOR:
Brett Bayston
CHAPTER AND SCHOOL:
Alpha Chapter, Illinois
GIVING LEVEL:
Grand President’s Society
As I look back on pivotal decision points, I recognize how important the relationships built at AGR were in those moments.
AGR meant a tremendous amount to me during my undergraduate years at the University of Illinois. The instant connection with like-minded young men of similar backgrounds created a way for me to get comfortable with the much larger campus environment as an incoming freshman. The structure, high expectations and the examples set by the upperclassmen ahead of me forced the right kind of growth and development. Most importantly, the relationships built with the brothers in my member class and those ahead and behind impacted me greatly, and they are relationships I still treasure today. My career path after college was directly influenced by a few AGR alumni who truly took me under their wings, preparing me for the career that I still enjoy today, 27 years later. As I look back on pivotal decision points, I recognize how important the relationships
built at AGR were in those moments, and I can’t help but feel blessed by the AGR experience. Any contribution I make to the local Alumni Board or The Educational Foundation is likely an inadequate token of my appreciation for AGR. I’m certain I’m not alone in those feelings, and I would highly encourage any brother from any chapter to put those thoughts of appreciation into action. For some, it may mean getting involved on an Alumni Board, while for others, it may mean a financial contribution to a local chapter. For all of us, it could be a contribution to The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho. As costs continue to rise for incoming students, our support becomes even more valuable, as we seek to provide young men with the opportunity to experience the benefits of Alpha Gamma Rho.
BE A PARTNER FOR PROGRESS. Your contribution—your investment—allows Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity to continue providing its members with exceptional collegiate experiences, shaping more than 100 years of young men and sharpening the leading edge of an ever-changing world of agriculture. Your support provides the resources of the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho—the Foundation that supports your Fraternity. Make a gift today at alphagammarho.org/donate.
Table of Contents
12 SPRING
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SPRING 2015 | VOLUME 105 | ISSUE 1
Published continuously since 1910 EDITOR
Dave Korbelik COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
Sarah Nadler
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CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
departments AGR E L E VA N C E
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BUSINESS MANAGER
News from the Home Office and the world of Greek-letter organizations
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TR ANSITIONS
Philip Josephson DESIGN & LAYOUT
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Honoring those brothers who have departed
features
THE PILL ARS
The New West: On the Cusp of a Prairie Revolution 8
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Reports from our chapters
AGR Connects with Financial Guru Dave Ramsey
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An AGR Innovation
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Regional Vice President and Arkansas alumnus Will Schuhknecht
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In Praise of Fraternity Life on Campus
Old Brotherhood Forms New Bonds
Q & AG R
T H E L A S T PA S S
Tria Designs SUBMISSIONS FOR SICKLE & SHEAF
Take note of these four numbers FIE LD NOTE S
Joe Arterburn, Steve Fairchild, Matt Fanta, Corey Geiger, John Harvey, Loren Kruse, Justin Lessman, Chester Peterson, Jr., Steve Rich, Len Richardson, John Ruebush, Vance Runnels, Patrick Scheetz, Jeremy Zweiacker
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alphagammarho.org/share-your-news sarah@alphagammarho.org
Sickle & Sheaf (ISSN 8750-6866) is published two times a year (Fall and Spring) by Publications Office, 10101 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO. Members receive life subscriptions with payment of initiation fee. Non-Profit Standard postage paid at Liberty, MO, and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Sickle & Sheaf, 10101 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153-1366.
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AGRelevance
Grand President’s 2015 Award Winners ADMINISTERED AND
nominated by a selection committee, the Grand President’s Award is presented to outstanding Fraternity alumni age 40 or younger who have achieved remarkable success in their professional careers and made great contributions to agriculture and Alpha Gamma Rho. The award demonstrates an honorable acknowledgment of the recipient’s exceptional brotherhood, leadership, professionalism and knowledge of his industry. Four exemplary men were selected to receive the 2015 Alpha Gamma Rho Grand President’s Award. Lynn Becker, Elliott Marsh, Jesse Singerhouse and Jerrod Westfahl were honored with the award at the four 2015 Leadership Seminars in Reno, Baltimore, Chicago and Ft. Worth. For more information, or to nominate a brother for a future award, visit alphagammarho. org/grandpresident-award
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Lynn Becker
Elliott Marsh
MINNESOTA
GEORGIA
Lynn Becker joined Lambda Chapter in the fall of 1991 during his time as an undergraduate at the University of Minnesota. After earning his bachelor’s degree in agriculture business management, he began his career on his family’s farm, and since then, Becker has been dedicated to leading his family’s multimillion dollar, intergenerational agribusiness, LB Pork, Inc. Since graduating, Becker has led efforts to more than double land holdings and expand sow ownership nearly fivefold. He and his family raise row crops on 1,700 acres and market 100,000 pigs on their farms in southern Minnesota. Becker’s career includes a strong international flavor, which he began cultivating while studying abroad in college. In addition to career accomplishments, Becker has seen success at home as well as in his community. He and his wife, Julie, have three children, and they spend most of their free time supporting the children in their many sports and school activities.
A native of Statesboro, Ga., Elliott Marsh earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics at the University of Georgia, graduating in 2002. There, he was Noble Ruler of Alpha Eta Chapter and vice president of the Agronomy Club. He also graduated from the University of Georgia in August 2011 with a Master of Agricultural Leadership degree. Marsh joined Southern States Cooperative, Inc., in September of 2014 as the precision ag coordinator for East Georgia Agronomy. There, he provides leadership, support and technical assistance at retail locations assigned to implement and deliver precision agriculture programs to farmers. Prior to joining Southern States, Marsh was the Eastern Georgia regional manager at Ag Technologies, LLC. Marsh is active in a number of clubs and organizations, and service to Alpha Gamma Rho has remained a priority. He is currently Chairman of AGR’s Leadership Seminar Steering Committee. Elliott and his wife, Christy, live on his family’s farm along with their two daughters.
AGRelevance
The Grand President’s Award is presented to outstanding Fraternity alumni age 40 or younger who have achieved remarkable success in their professional careers and made great contributions to agriculture and Alpha Gamma Rho.
UPCOMING EVENTS Please visit our events page for more details: alphagammarho.org/events.
2015
ADVISER FORUM Jul. 24-25, 2015
Kansas City, Mo.
2016 ADVISER FORUM Jan. 08-09, 2016 Kansas City, Mo.
RECRUITMENT SCHOOL Jan. 15-16, 2016 Kansas City, Mo.
ALUMNI CARIBBEAN CRUISE Feb. 12-22, 2016
Jesse Singerhouse
Jerrod Westfahl
WISCONSIN-RIVER FALLS
KANSAS STATE
LEADERSHIP SEMINAR Feb. 12-13, 2016 St. Louis, Mo.
LEADERSHIP SEMINAR Feb. 19-20, 2016 Atlanta, Ga.
LEADERSHIP SEMINAR
Alpha Gamma Rho has been a great building block in Jesse Singerhouse’s life and career since his initiation into Alpha Psi in the spring of 1994. He has remained involved with the Chapter and Fraternity since graduating from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education and then a MBA. Singerhouse currently works as the manager of administrative and member services at Dunn Energy Cooperative in Menomonie, Wisc. For the past 15 years, he has worked his way up after starting as a summer intern in 1996. In his community, Singerhouse has served as President of the Greater Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce and is actively involved in the Dunn County Farm Bureau, Dunn County 4-H and the Menomonie FFA Alumni. He operates a fifth-generation, 100-acre beef farm south of Menomonie, raising 20 head of beef cattle in a cow-calf operation that specializes in high-quality Angus, Maine Anjou and Crossbred cattle that his family exhibits at cattle shows.
Jerrod Westfahl joined the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho in 1993 during his time as an undergraduate at Kansas State University. After earning his Bachelor of Science in agricultural economics at Kansas State, he went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas. In his early career, Westfahl served Fortune 500 clients as an attorney with Shook, Hardy and Bacon, LLP. Providing pro bono legal services was also a priority, and he particularly enjoyed helping foster parents adopt their foster children. Leaving private law practice in 2007, Westfahl joined a venture capital-backed company, which was founded by a fellow AGR. He led the company for several years as President and CEO, and under his leadership, the firm transitioned and grew through several important phases to become an 80-employee disruptor of the multibillion-dollar equipment auction industry. Today, Westfahl continues a part-time law practice as Of Counsel to the law firm Devine and Donley, LLC. Most of his energy, though, is focused on developing businesses in the ag technology space. Jerrod lives in Manhattan, Kan., with his wife, Amy, and their three young children.
Feb. 26-27, 2016 Denver, Colo.
LEADERSHIP SEMINAR March 4-5, 2016 Pittsburgh, Pa.
RECRUITMENT SCHOOL Mar. 18-19, 2016 Kansas City, Mo.
NATIONAL CONVENTION Aug. 10-12, 2016 Omaha, Neb.
FIND US. FRIEND US. FOLLOW US. @alphagammarhohq @alphagammarho Alpha Gamma Rho: Social/Professional Ag, Food, Fiber, & Life Sci. Fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho Alumni Network Alpha Gamma Rho S PR I N G 201 5
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AGRelevance Make sure you continue receiving the Sickle & Sheaf! Sickle & Sheaf has been redesigned and reformatted a few times in its 105-year history, and you may have noticed that just recently, Sickle & Sheaf has undergone a few … changes. The magazine grew up big time in 2015, and the updates don’t stop with the renewed, revamped look and format change! The Sickle & Sheaf magazine will now be produced twice a year, and you’ll continue to receive the printed piece each spring and fall. However, in the ten months that you don’t receive a printed magazine, AGR will be delivering an all-new e-newsletter piece straight to your email inbox. This e-newsletter, the S&S, will contain all the relevant, timely AGR alumni and collegiate information you’re missing, like Honors & Awards and On the Move updates. To continue receiving important AGR news and information, make sure we have your correct mailing address AND email address on file! Update your contact information by calling the Home Office at 816-891-9200 or fill out our online form at www.alphagammarho.org/ update-info.
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Pi Chapter’s 10th Home:
THE “100-YEAR STRUCTURE” By Jeremy Zweiacker, Oklahoma State The Pi Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho has called several Stillwater addresses “home” since it was founded in 1921. This past February, the Chapter moved into its newest residence, a 37,000 square foot, three-story modified Georgian structure that features the same red brick and cast stone that is prominent throughout the Oklahoma State University campus. Pi Chapter was founded May 19, 1921, and it took just one summer to find the first home for the new Chapter. The new Brothers moved into the second floor of a local Stillwater boarding house located at 312 West Elm. Eight to 10 members occupied the four rooms upstairs. Pi Chapter moved to their second home in December, and it was at 311 Duncan that the Chapter initiated its first two pledges. It was not until the Chapter moved into its third home, located on Knoblock Street, that it established its first food service. Pi Chapter has moved multiple times since that first house. In addition to the first three houses the chapter has lived at 205 Knoblock, 124 North West, 302 Knoblock and 901 College Avenue at one time or the other. Many times, the alumni would rent the property and move in after another fraternity vacated the property. One time, the alumni rented a property, purchased the property, sold the property and then rented the same property from the investor they sold the property to. In 1937, the alumni purchased a 140' by 140' lot located at 224 South Washington for $3,500.
A foundation was poured for a new chapter house in 1938 by members of the Fraternity under the supervision of the Chapter Advisor. War broke out, and the foundation remained until after World War II and construction of a house began in 1949. Members moved into the new house immediately after New Year’s Day in 1950. Construction was not yet finished on the first floor and members used ladders to access the second floor to move their belongings in. The new house had a capacity of 38 men and stood for 14 years before the alumni association decided that it needed to be renovated and expanded. The house was renovated in 1964 and provided space for 55 men and more adequate Chapter and social activities. The house underwent a renovation in the 1970s and again in 1997. This home of Pi Chapter served the men of AGR for 63 years. In May 2013, members moved to 424 North Washington while the house at 224 South Washington was razed to make room for a new home that would serve Pi Chapter well into its future. Planning for the newest home of Pi Chapter began several years before construction began. The alumni board voted to proceed with the challenge of providing a new house in 2011, and plans began to circulate in May of the same year. The new house was built to be occupied by 86 men. A basement was constructed as a multipurpose room,
The new house was built to be occupied by 86 men. The first floor houses an indoor basketball gym and a dining room with seating for 98.
and it serves as a Chapter room and as a place to lounge and watch television. The basement also features washers and dryers that members can use. The first floor houses the Housemother’s quarters, library, an indoor basketball gym, men’s and women’s bathrooms, a dining room with seating for 98, a commercial kitchen and informal and formal living rooms. The second and third floors are arranged in oversized two-man bedrooms. The bedrooms are laid out in two, four and six man suites where the bedrooms open up into a living area that is shared by the occupants. The rooms are furnished with beds, desk, couches, chairs and refrigerators. Computer rooms are located on the second and third floor with computers, wireless printers and flat screen televisions to facilitate group study.
AGRelevance
Appointed 2015 Undergraduate Directors Nebraska builds new Chapter house and the framework for success By Kay Lynn Kalkowski After more than two decades of hoping and planning by alumni, the current collegiate members of Alpha Gamma Rho’s Kappa Chapter are finally living in a new Chapter house on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus. The house was ready for residents by October 2013, and the men who moved in were more than ready to vacate their living quarters at a neighboring fraternity house and other assorted living quarters. Major steps involved in the building process began with the creation of a fundraising campaign in 1998, burning of the mortgage for the chapter house in use in 2000, and the determination of board members to build a new house “with manageable debt while minimizing the impact on undergraduate house bills.” A mandate from the University of Nebraska demanding fire-extinguishing sprinkler systems in all organized houses motivated the Kappa alumni to address the many physical problems of the house that had been completed in 1957. A building committee began the task of acquiring additional lots in the East Campus Community Organization historical neighborhood. The resulting plan after meeting with architects was to tear down the existing house and build a new $5,000,000 Chapter house that would accommodate 65 students with an extended parking lot at the same location. Current Noble Ruler Tanner Nelson reflects that “the house has not only improved living quarters, but it has laid the framework for many of life’s obstacles, demonstrating that when you come together to accomplish a common goal, it can be done.”
Four AGR brothers were recently named the 2015 Undergraduate Directors on the National Board. Jared Biciolis, Kayden Guymon, K. Garrett Kays and Nathan McMullen were selected for this position based on their responsibility, leadership and contribution to the Fraternity. They will serve a one-year term.
Jared Biciolis is a junior at the University of Arizona, and was initiated by Alpha Pi in January of 2013. He is currently serving as the Noble Ruler of the chapter and served as the Philanthropy Chair in 2014. Jared is an Agricultural Education Major. His long-term career plan is to become a high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor and possibly a future agriculture teacher educator at a University. Kayden Guymon is a junior at University of Missouri, and was initiated by Theta in the spring of 2013. He served as Noble Ruler in 2014 and has been the AGR Classic Steer and Heifer show tri-chairman for two years. Kayden plans to graduate with a degree in animal science and pursue a degree in law focusing on agriculture issues and policy. Garrett Kays is a junior at Kansas State, and was initiated by Alpha Zeta in 2012. He served as VNR Alumni Relations in 2014.
Kays is an agriculture economics and natural resources and environmental sciences double major. His long-term career plan is to work on forming public policy and being an advocate for agriculture in shaping our nation’s policy affecting farmers, ranchers and rural America. Nathan McMullen is a Junior at South Dakota State, and was initiated by Alpha Phi in the Fall of 2013. He has served as Assistant VNR Membership Development and is currently the VNR Membership Development. Brother McMullen is an agricultural education major with a minor in leadership. At SDSU, Nathan is involved with CFFA/AgEd Club, Teach Ag Ambassador and Little International. His long-term career plan is to teach agriculture at the secondary level of education and to become a principal or superintendent in a school district in southern Minnesota.
Corporate Partners
AGR is committed to offering opportunities for members and corporations in the dynamic global agriculture and food industries to connect. Thank you to our Corporate Partners for support of our mission!
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Transitions
In Memory of Our Great Brothers The following deaths were reported to the Home Office since the last publication of Sickle & Sheaf. The listing includes initiation year. Arkansas
George E. McNeely, 1949 Bruce E. Griffin, 1968 Wayne E. Pyles, 1957
Auburn
W. Gary Winsett, 1963
Austin Peay
Ellis R. Buchanan, 1983 Charles H. Burgess, 1987 Perry C. Story, 2006 Larry D. Lofton, 1993 Rex A. Bracy, 1983
California-Davis
Robert H. Bowcock, 1936 Marcus I. Bacchi, 1996 Stanley L. Hunewill, 1954
Chico State
Phil Bayes, 1967 Michael J. Scott, 1986 James H. Edwards, 1951
Maurice M. Sandmeyer, 1948 Dale L. Skaalure, 1939 John F. Munson, 1930
Louisiana State
Nebraska
Mark Hormell, 1974
Robert J. Moreland, 1943 Dean L. Linscott, 1950 Gary L. Hild, 1952 William A. Johnson, 1951 Arza J. Snyder, 1953
Maryland
New Hampshire
Virgus Cardozier, 1942 Daniel B. Meador, 1942
Maine
Floyd M. Walker, 1942 Ralph A. MacDonald, 1948 Guy L. Haviland, 1954 Donald C. Fretts, 1963 Richard L. Pue, 1964 Frederick C. Blank, 1965 W. H. Eberspacher, 1959 Walter C. Bay, 1952 Joseph H. Wiley, 1946 Clinton F. Wells, 1947 Samuel T. Slack, 1941
Richard J. Hogan, 1950 Roger Farr, 1936
New Mexico State
Lambert H. Wilkes, 1955
North Carolina State
Morris M. Hathaway, 1943 Philip D. Knowles, 1955 Kevin J. Poirier, 1979
Thomas R. Lawing, 1947 Claude S. Kidd, 1948 Hoyle R. Allen, 1954 Herbert Burch, 1967 Dalton R. Proctor, 1955 Joseph L. Everett, 1950 David L. Bowen, 1947 James R. Rankin, 1948 Bill L. Cook, 1941
William L. Alcorn, 1924 Kenneth W. Stone, 1939 Richard E. Keene, 1954 Edwin C. Hadlock, 1955 Kermit L. Lyndaker, 1957 Maxwell A. Fisher, 1957 A. Dale Button, 1952 Donald E. Webster, 1940
Minnesota
North Dakota State
Florida
Edward R. Wiggins, 1943 C. David Peterman, 1954 J. P. Carman, 1959 Omer M. Dye, 1946 Nelson G. Trickey, 1947 Roger H. Johnston, 1965 Gail W. King, 1949 Ernest T. Smerdon, 1950 Paul W. Sims, 1937
Thomas M. Schuller, 1980
Colorado State
George S. Myers, 1953
Connecticut
Robert J. O’Connor, 1941
Cornell
James S. Quincey, 1955
Illinois
Wade E. Hegland, 1980 Merle S. Miller, 1952 David C. Armstrong, 1988 Robert B. Howard, 1930 Lyn G. Ash, 1965 James M. Clapper, 1954
Iowa State
Timothy D. Krumm, 1977 Gary C. Priebe, 1963 Deane T. Skogman, 1948 Darwin A. Larson, 1935
Kansas State
Jack D. Savage, 1948 Jerome K. Regier, 1955 David L. McNett, 1974 H. D. Hess, 1947
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Kentucky
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Michigan State
Dean P. Cates, 1947 David E. McConnell, 1953 Michael C. Lindquist, 1975 Norman D. Ramey, 1948 Gerhard M. Swenson, 1952 Elton A. Kuderer, 1950
Missouri
Montana State
Arnold A. Berglund, 1937 Wayne A. Neel, 1940 Dale J. Lynch, 1942 Anthony P. Bucher, 1943 Paul H. Wetzsteon, 1950 Alfred L. Leatherberry, 1967 Dean C. Perkins, 1968 Gibson P. Van Alstyne, 1961
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Dale W. Longtin, 1953 Nels N. Midgarden, 1953 Clayton Tollerud, 1953 Robert R. Gallagher, 1947
Ohio State
Rodger R. Carpenter, 1958 Clarence D. Mann, 1943
Oklahoma State
Donald L. Taggart, 1948 John L. Azlin, 1951 Ronald G. Shafer, 1961 William C. Dysinger, 1941
Oregon State
Stephen R. Davis, 1964 Phillip Hawman, 1950 Dale L. Anderson, 1942
Penn State
J. Richard Crandall, 1950 Dick R. Brandon, 1951 Perry H. Wetzel, 1953 Henry L. Albert, 1937 Byron A. Hughes, 1946 Irvin E. Reitz, 1946 George D. Pringle, 1942
Purdue
Lawrence R. Ralston, 1936 James R. Blackwell, 1940 Charles M. Patty, 1942 Hollace D. Sherwood, 1942 Stephen V. Camp, 1967 Hobart W. Jones, 1942
Southern Illinois Ron Hines, 1971
Tennessee-Knoxville Forrest P. Wilson, 1951
Virginia Tech
Richard G. Thornhill, 1975 James R. Nichols, 1975
Washington State
Leslie W. Metzger, 1942 Roger M. Kvamme, 1956 Robert McCall Crow, 1948
West Virginia
Maurice L. Allman, 1949 Harlan P. Carter, 1949
Western Kentucky
Ryan M. Moore, 2001
Wisconsin-Madison
Thomas P. Schomisch, 1964 Steven A. Howard, 1973 Thomas E. Hamilton, 1957 Clifford B. Ahlquist, 1946 Stephen W. Rankin, 1946 George W. McKerrow, 1946 Robert J. Williams, 1947
Wisconsin-River Falls
Larry W. Schleusner, 1968 Daniel F. Stoflet, 1974 Todd R. Cavanaugh, 1991 Jeremy D. Meissner, 2000
The Pillars
Rec ruit
Edu cat e
it
ber Num w of ne s ter p Cha lled insta 14. in 20 ma Gam lon Epsi m at Sa ton s u Ho e Stat me beca er apt a Ch lpha of A ma Gam on Rho 6, . Dec . 2014
Rec ogn i
ze
f ber o Num hips lars scho able avail gh throu a alph ma gam rg. rho.o
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This is 22 more initiates than this time in 2014.
Discover the dates and locations of next year’s Leadership Seminars on page 3.
Learn more about the newest AGR chapter on page 23.
864
Com m
2015 ip ersh Lead inar Sem es. nde atte
one
1 ,209
New tes initia f as o il 1, r p A . 2015
Scholarship applications are due each year on April 30. S PR I N G 201 5
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new
West the
On the Cusp of a Prairie revolution
IOWA STATE ALUMNUS ANDREW LAUVER HAS A FRONT ROW SEAT TO BOTH AGRICULTURAL AND FRATERNITY EXPANSION ON THE WESTERN CANADA PRAIRIE By Andrew Lauver, Iowa State Where will the growth in acres come
Andrew Lauver’s, Iowa State, first day in Canada was a “brisk” -30 degrees Fahrenheit!
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from? How are we going to feed 9 billion people by 2050? Where can we find more farmland? These are all questions many of us hear, whether in the halls of the Fraternity, classroom, farm or agribusiness. On January 6, 2014, I left the farm gate of my fourth-generation family farm in Northwest Iowa in hopes to find a few of the answers to these questions on the new frontier of corn and soybean production in Western Canada. After driving with my family and girlfriend to the Omaha, Neb., airport, I said my goodbyes and boarded a plane on a one-year international assignment for DuPont Pioneer. Upon my arrival in Western Canada, I looked at my phone and was alerted that the temperature was -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Growing up on the farm carrying buckets of corn and protein from the corn crib to the feed bunk, I always thought I knew what cold was in
January. However, I quickly realized I was in for a new normal. I took a taxi to my hotel and decided to start the acclimation process. First, I walked a couple of blocks to a Subway for supper. I purchased a sub and a Coke and walked back to the hotel. When I reached the doors to the hotel, I took a sip of my Coke. “What the?” I thought to myself. What type of Coke did I purchase? After lifting the lid, I realized the whole cup has frozen during the walk back in the -30 weather! Note to self, ice is not needed in my drinks here! So, how does agricultural expansion take place in an area with winter days as cold as a spring day on Mars (which ranges in temperature from -195 degrees to 70 degrees)? Simply put, Western Canada is one of the most important “breadbaskets” in the world. When evaluating the region, it’s important to note that 74 million acres of arable land are
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Western Canada Canola Field in Bloom in July 2014.
ACRES OF CORN PRODUCED IN WESTERN CANADA 10,000,000 Acres (projected)
500,000 Acres
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farmed today. Iowa, for example, has 30 million acres of land in production. This agricultural area encompasses the provinces of Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan, with the most prevalent crops being canola and wheat. As a country, Canada is the number one producer of canola, peas, lentils, mustard seed and flax seed in the world. Furthermore, the demographics of Canada are quite similar to ours in the U.S., with 98% of Canadian farms being owned by families. (According to the 2007 Census of Agriculture, 87% of farms in this country are owned and operated by individuals or families.) So, what’s the buzz all about? It’s about the new crops, corn and soybeans, and the potential they have in Western Canada. Presently, the most limiting factors of producing on par corn yields with the U.S. Corn Belt are the short semi-arid summers with harsh long winters. However, it’s been documented that the number of frost-free days in the region are increasing five days every 10 years. When analyzing this important environmental factor, and coupling it with the innovation of days to maturity by companies in the seed business, we’re on the cusp of a prairie revolution. Let’s dive deeper into the innovation. DuPont Pioneer is currently marketing corn varieties reaching maturity as soon as 74 days— essentially providing just enough time to plant the crop, go in the house for supper and come back out to view tassels shooting up from the plant. This is currently the earliest corn on the market, and growers, especially livestock producers, continue to be interested in the
high-yielding crop. These advances across the prairie are game-changers. Currently around 500,000 acres of corn are produced in Western Canada, and the potential is as many as 10 million corn acres by 2030. “Grow Your Corn Acre Days” and corn planter clinics have been held to fast-track the adoption of this new crop. Many of the questions start right from the beginning.
The advances in production methods and efficiencies derived by seed, fertilizer and equipment will make farming even more exciting and rewarding, especially for growers in places like Western Canada, Eastern Europe and Brazil.
“What type of planter should I buy?” “How deep should I plant the seed?” “How much fertilizer will I need to apply, and when?” If you’re looking for a place to help introduce a new crop to information-hungry farmers during your career, look no further, and punch your ticket to Western Canada. Now, you may be thinking, “yes, but the cost of corn has really softened over the past year.” True, but it doesn’t seem to be curbing enthusiasm, especially for livestock farmers in Western Canada. You see, the risk profile of a
farmer is different here on the prairies. In the Corn Belt coffee shops, we talk about $20,000 per acre ground sold at a recent auction, and those neighbors down the road paying $400 cash rent. In contrast, we see prices per acre in Western Canada of $2,000 per acre and cash rents in the $100 range. Since this is the case, a grower may “try” corn for the first time and plant a whole 640 acre section to the crop. When you pencil the costs of production and yield potential, 150 bushels per acre on a Western Canada farm isn’t bad. In fact, it’s fantastic! Of course there are still large capital considerations to be made before jumping into corn with both feet such as a new planter, corn head, and ideally, a dryer and bins. Canola still remains king, and likely won’t be replaced by corn acres, but feed barley and wheat will likely lose ground. This is especially true in areas where livestock are present. The advantages of feeding corn for grain, or grazing maize over the winter months, are extensive. It’s safe to say the advances in production methods and efficiencies derived by seed, fertilizer and equipment will make farming even more exciting and rewarding, especially for growers in places like Western Canada, Eastern Europe and Brazil. Knowledge will be the path to enhancing productivity on a global scale, and sharing our knowledge across borders should be top-of-mind. The pace of
innovation requires constant awareness of the developing technology that will impact every segment of our businesses. No doubt, the opportunities in agriculture are going to be amazing during the span of our careers, and Western Canada is just one small example. In closing, there is one important item the prairie of Western Canada is missing, and it’s an AGR chapter. With an area just north of our borders encompassing 32,000 family farms, the opportunities for recruitment are endless. As a Fraternity, we too are on the cusp of breaking ground here, just like the corn acres. In fact, Craig Parker, Alpha Gamma Rho Director of Recruitment, visited just this year to survey the campus at the University of Saskatchewan. The initial visits have been promising, so with much support and enthusiasm, we can also experience a revolution on the Canadian prairies as a Fraternity. Andrew Lauver was the Frank Ross International Business Emerging Leader at DuPont Pioneer. Lauver graduated from Iowa State University in December 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural studies and a minor in agronomy. He is currently an account manager for DuPont Pioneer and is pursuing a Master’s in Agribusiness through Kansas State University. After completing the first phase of his international business assignment in Iowa, Lauver moved to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and worked in the Western Canada Business Unit of DuPont Pioneer during the 2014 calendar year.
Andrew Lauver, Iowa State (left) DuPont Pioneer and Craig Parker Director of Recruitment for Alpha Gamma Rho visit during an AGR expansion trip.
Currently around 500,000 acres of corn are produced in Western Canada, and the potential is as many as 10 million corn acres by 2030.
DuPont Pioneer is a Diamond level corporate partner of Alpha Gamma Rho. For information about career and internship opportunities with DuPont Pioneer, visit alphagammarho.org/ professional-links-andopportunities.
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These Non-Members are Going to Change How AGRs Manage Their Personal Finances DAVE RAMSEY’S FOUNDATIONS IN PERSONAL FINANCE: COLLEGE EDITION AVAILABLE TO COLLEGIATE MEMBERS THROUGH AGRconnect
Personal finance experts, Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze
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Alpha Gamma Rho is now offering Dave Ramsey’s Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition to all of its collegiate members and chapters through AGRconnect. Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition challenges the way students view money and encourages them to make better financial decisions by teaching the basics of saving, giving and spending. Personal finance expert Dave Ramsey, along with Rachel Cruze, teaches students how to manage money, save for emergencies and get out of debt. As the first Greek organization to collaborate with Dave Ramsey and his team, AGR is proud to offer this value-added benefit to collegiate membership. The Foundations in Personal Finance course, which serves as Course 16: Financial Management and Planning, completing initial course development, was released on April 20, 2015. “Alpha Gamma Rho is pleased to work with Dave Ramsey and his team to provide Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition to our collegiate members,” said Phil Josephson, AGR’s Executive Director. “We are proud to add this high-quality and valuable content to AGRconnect. The course will, without a doubt, enhance our collegiates’ experience and have a lasting positive impact. We believe this relationship will be transformational, paying great dividends for AGRconnect and throughout the entire Fraternity.” While collegiate members have full access to the course upon signing into AGRconnect, alumni members are able to “test drive” chapter one by logging into their AGRconnect portal. “Offering Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition to our collegiate brothers through AGRconnect access is a transformational opportunity for Alpha Gamma Rho, truly elevating the value of their membership and the impact AGR will have in the lives of those members who engage in the curriculum,” said Brad Garrison, Director of Development for Alpha Gamma Rho.
Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover, EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. “The Dave Ramsey Show” is heard by more than 8.5 million listeners each week on more than 550 radio stations, “The Dave Ramsey Show” channel on iHeartRadio and a 24-hour online streaming video channel. Ramsey Solutions offers a suite of products and services to help people get control of their finances and other aspects of their lives. Follow Ramsey on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com. “This valuable information is only effective if it’s used,” Tim Heiller, Iowa State Adviser, said. “I challenge each and every collegiate brother to take advantage of this curriculum as it has the potential to dramatically change your life and your success with money. Please take my word for it: you will not regret investing some of your time while in college to take advantage of the investment the AGR has made in you!”
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For more information about the Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition, go to daveramsey.com/college.
Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition challenges the way students view money and encourages them to make better financial decisions by teaching the basics of saving, giving and spending.
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AN ALPHA GAMMA RHO
INNOVATION AGRconnect, the first e-learning portal developed by a Greek organization, is engaging, educating and empowering members across the country.
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If you’ve been to an Alpha Gamma Rho event lately, it’s likely you’ve heard a lot of talk about the excitement around AGRconnect. And even if you haven’t attended an event, it’s likely you have felt the buzz on social media or seen information about the portal in any number of AGR publications. AGRconnect is growing up, and just in the last few months, several key updates and a transformational collaboration with Dave Ramsey have rocketed AGRconnect forward. IMPLEMENTING
COMPLETING
Like with many new innovations, AGRconnect was first met with a degree of skepticism. Some doubted the utility. A few doubted the necessity. It was an endeavor never before attempted by a Greek organization, and with AGRconnect, Alpha Gamma Rho was venturing into uncharted territory. Uncharted territory has the tendency to make some people uncomfortable, and the unknown can make some people a little uneasy. But, thankfully, AGRs really aren’t some people, and with the vision that this first-of-its-kind e-learning portal would be instrumental for Fraternity and Chapter success in the future, AGRconnect moved forward. “I was excited about AGRconnect from the get-go,” Michael Shirley, Adviser for Beta Theta Chapter at Middle Tennessee State said. “It’s so important that our collegiate brothers get the same, consistent information year after year. And truthfully, it can be difficult to rely on an 18-year-old to properly train another 18-yearold on these offices. Having one central location for all brothers—no matter their position, chapter, age—to find and share information is invaluable, and that has been exciting to me from day one.” Shirley says that the Beta Theta collegiates have responded well to AGRconnect also. “At first, our collegiates and officers wouldn’t think to look for information in AGRconnect,” Shirley said. “But after we began directing them to the courses and the toolboxes for materials, now they’re like, ‘There’s actually some pretty good information in there.’” Most chapters had an implementation experience similar to Middle Tennessee State, and for many, going to AGRconnect for materials and information is now becoming second nature. Overall, portal usage among chapters is on the rise as site visits and course completions continue to climb. With the addition of several new courses as well as some key portal upgrades being made, this upward trend is expected to continue.
Just since the beginning of 2015, five courses and 17 modules have been completed and released, including the second module to House Operations & Management, Leadership, Citizenship, This is Your Fraternity, and the 16th and final course, which was provisionally named Financial Management & Planning. AGR decided to take a different approach with the final course, and while most AGRconnect courses have relied upon volunteer efforts by subject matter experts for development, it was clear that reinventing the wheel on course 16 would be counterproductive. For Financial Management & Planning, AGR collaborated with Dave Ramsey and his team to provide Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition to all its collegiate membership. As the word about Foundations in Personal Finance: College Edition has trickled down throughout the chapters and membership, initial feedback has been tremendous. We’ve heard from several brothers who were personally impacted by Dave Ramsey’s courses and are proud of Alpha Gamma Rho’s decision to provide this content to collegiate brothers (see story on pg. 13). “You have a donor for life now because I am beyond excited,” Tim Heiller, adviser for Iowa State, said. “This could be the single most impactful thing the Fraternity has ever done. I have been through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University course at my church, and I have always worked with the graduating seniors at Eta Chapter to educate them on financial techniques, so my job just got easier. This is an exceptional investment in the membership of Alpha Gamma Rho and the future of the Fraternity!” California-Davis alumnus Jeremy Turner was also positively impacted by Dave’s principles. “They have changed every aspect of my life,” he said. “Going through Financial Peace University taught me more than just how to manage my money better. I learned that communi-
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3,309
Total number of unique individual logins
34
Average number of minutes spent during a single login
171
Most logins by a current collegiate
279
Most logins by a current alumnus
New Member Education Most popular course
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“I am beyond excited,” Tim Heiller, adviser for Iowa State, said. “This could be the single most impactful thing the Fraternity has ever done.”
Secure the future of AGRconnect. A fundraising deadline of September 1, 2015 has been set, and AGR is determined to raise the remaining $750,000. While we know this is aggressive, we are committed to securing the future of Alpha Gamma Rho through endowing the future of AGRconnect. We’re calling on all brothers for support, and with your help, we can be good stewards of the Fraternity, we can adapt and we can guarantee a robust AGRconnect program for future AGR brothers. Visit www.alphagammarho.org/ agrconnect-donation to make a gift today!
For more information about making a gift, contact Brad Garrison at 816-891-9200, ext. 21 or at brad@alphagammarho.org. 16 SICKLE & SHEAF
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cation about money is just as important. My then girlfriend, Rebecca, and I began talking more easily about money and then about other aspects of our lives, and our relationship grew. We are now married and instead of struggling with debt, we are able to give more to the organizations that have supported us.” UPGR ADING
In addition to the course and content additions made since the beginning of the year, a brandnew “Officer Portal” has been added to help chapters conduct business more efficiently as well as a new, upgraded reporting system for officers. These upgrades were made after receiving a great deal of feedback and ideas over the last year—much of the feedback coming from the 2014 National Convention in Indianapolis. Members specifically asked for the ability to sort out alumni in AGRconnect, the ability to run a report on only collegiate members of the Chapter, easier event registration, a better way to submit National forms and applications, a better way to receive, track and pay Home Office bills, and a calendar function that has both Chapter and National Fraternity dates included. All of these requests have either already been addressed or are in the process of being addressed, and attendees of the 2015 Leadership Seminars were happy to hear their suggestions had been taken so seriously, so quickly. EMBR ACING
Now, three years after the launch of course one, the first phase of AGRconnect development is complete, and courses one through 16 are available in the portal 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toolboxes are packed with documents and best practices, and additional documents are being added weekly. But, best of all, AGRconnect is proving to be a priceless resource to collegiates and alumni alike, and it’s helping officers and volunteers perform their jobs better and with greater ease. “AGRconnect has helped us a lot as a growing Chapter because we’re able to log in and see what other chapters are doing and how they’re being successful,” said Brett Bostrom, Colorado State Noble Ruler. “We’ve implemented some new programs—like a new points system—modeled after what other chapters are doing. AGRconnect has really elevated us and brought us up to par with modern AGR.” Michael Shirley and the Middle Tennessee State Chapter have seen such success with
their use of AGRconnect that they’re now incorporating it into a Chapter mentorship program. “Our executive officers are paired with an alumni ‘expert’ to help and guide them with their VNR responsibilities, career plan and so on,” Shirley said. “And, AGRconnect has an important role in the mentor-mentee relationship for several reasons. First, our mentors have used AGRconnect courses and materials to refresh their memories on the roles and responsibilities of the office. Also, when the mentors are presented with a question on problem direct, they first direct their mentee to AGRconnect to help them try to answer the question or solve the problem on their own first.” Many more collegiate and alumni brothers gave their reviews of AGRconnect at the 2015 Leadership Seminars. Visit the Alpha Gamma Rho YouTube channel to watch the videos. SECURING
Even since the launch of AGRconnect just a few years ago, there have already been a number of upgrades and updates made to the system. Many of which were based on members’ feedback and advice. To ensure that AGRconnect is able to operate a high level for years to come, The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho is building an endowment to fund future AGRconnect enhancements and expansion. AGR set out to raise $3 million, and of this goal, $2.25 million has already been raised. “Two concepts that will be greatly important to Alpha Gamma Rho going forward are stewardship and adaptability,” Grand President Cal Willemssen said. “Stewardship means to care for and preserve something worthwhile, and adaptability means to adjust readily to different conditions. Not only does Alpha Gamma Rho display these concepts through the development of AGRconnect, but AGRconnect also helps us accomplish them! It’s the role of every member going forward to be an advocate for AGRconnect, and to help Alpha Gamma Rho practice stewardship and adaptability.” As we near the fifth year of AGRconnect, it’s our goal and our responsibility as a Fraternity to ensure that the endowment is fully funded —AGRconnect must continue to adapt, and we must be good stewards of the program. To learn more about AGRconnect, visit alphagammarho.org/agrconnect-intro.
Field Notes CHAPTERS REPORT ON THEIR
Single Most Important Accomplishment of 2014 BETA GAMMA
Wisconsin-Platteville
ALPHA
University of Illinois
‘Foxy Lady’ Pageant Supports Family in Need Alpha Chapter has held a Foxy Lady beauty pageant on campus at the University of Illinois for the past 40 years with the proceeds being donated to many prolific causes. It is the longest continuously running philanthropy on campus. This year’s Foxy Lady pageant was a great financial success, but more importantly, the collegiate brothers are proud to be able to help a family in need. More than $3,200 dollars were raised to help the Hubbard Family. The wife of the family, Katie Hubbard, was recently diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Our proceeds went to support the family in any way possible in this difficult time, including medical expenses and allowing the family of six to spend time together. The Hubbard’s volunteer at the Illini Navigators, a local campus ministry team, that sophomore Alex Johns is involved with. There were 12 sororities represented in the beauty competition, which was held at the Canopy Club
in Urbana. The three rounds were sorority spirit, Illini Spirit and Evening wear. The winner was a freshman named Julia Benson of Kappa Delta. This year’s event was organized by Philanthropy Chair Jack Hedges, and the masters of ceremonies were Brother Chris Seiboldt and Brother Alex Tebbe. Since the completion of the philanthropy, Norman Hubbard (husband of Katie), has started a weekly bible study at the Alpha Chapter house, and there is a regular attendance of twenty brothers. We look forward to fostering our relationship with the Hubbard family and assisting them as they go through this situation. Alpha Chapter is especially grateful for Norm taking the time to lead us in this new fellowship at bible study. Below: Alpha Chapter Brothers present the proceeds of their Foxy Lady pageant to Katie Hubbard, who is battling breast cancer.
Brother for Life
One of the many values of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity is that your experience within the organization extends beyond your years at the university—that involvement lasts a lifetime, and once a brother, always a brother. As an undergraduate, busy with academics and university life, this thought process doesn’t really hit you until you are able to be a part of something that lends a hand to a past brother. This past year, we the brothers of the Beta Gamma Chapter had the opportunity to do just this. Brother Garrett Benzing, an outgoing and dedicated brother, had recently graduated from UW-Platteville and was on the path of starting his career as an agronomist in Montana. Unfortunately Garrett’s plans took an unexpected turn, and after finding a tumor in his left leg, Garrett was diagnosed with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a somewhat rare form of cancer. After numerous treatments and the eventual removal of his left leg, Garrett remained positive and an inspiration to all. Even through all of this, Garett was always able to crack a joke and put a smile on others’ faces. On October 5, 2014, a group of brothers had the opportunity to travel to Garrett’s hometown Sparta, Wis., to attend a benefit to help pay for the many medical bills his treatments had brought on. It was an amazing sight to see hundreds of people come together with one goal and raise thousands of dollars for Garrett and his family. Even in the worst of times, having a group of people for support can make all the difference. For many of the Chapter brothers, it was in this moment where the motto “Brother for life” rang true.
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Field Notes ALPHA RHO
Vermont
ALPHA OMEGA
Faces of Agriculture
Murray State
Tractor Pullin’ for Kids Our biggest accomplishment of the spring was Founder’s Day, which was held the last weekend in February. Normally, our Founder’s Days consist of an alumni meeting, lunch and conversing among brothers we haven’t seen all year. This Founder’s Day, in addition to the normal festivities, we decided to get a shotgun engraved and raffle it off to the Chapter and its alumni. We also auctioned off a custom duck call that had “AGR” engraved on the band. After our first annual shotgun raffle and duck call auction, we cleared more than $1,900 after cost, and the alumni loved the idea! We are going to use the $1,900 to pay off National dues and house bills, putting our Chapter in a better financial position. Our ninth annual philanthropy, our St. Jude Children’s Hospital tractor pull, looks to be a success again in 2015. In the history of this philanthropy, Alpha Omega has raised a total of $43,000. Every year, with diligent labor and tedious planning, the largest philanthropy at Murray State attracts local pull enthusiast and raises thousands of dollars to be donated to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. In 2014, we proudly sent $8,000 that was raised due to hard work and caring sponsors.
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ALPHA PHI
South Dakota State
Cohosts of the Jackrabbit Memorial The Alpha Phi Chapter at South Dakota State has quite a common tradition of hosting an annual Steer Show. However, this year things have changed. AGR chapters across the nation commonly hold their own cattle shows, and Alpha Phi has participated in this for many years. However, over the past year, South Dakota’s show cattle industry experienced a tragic loss. On a late night last April, four young cattlemen lost their lives in a plane crash coming home from a beef production sale in Lubbock, Texas. Nick Reimann of Ree Heights, Logan Rau of Java, and Brent Beitelspacher of Bowdle, along with D.J. Fischer, the pilot, were those killed in this tragedy. Lisa Johnson, another well-known rancher, also passed away in early June from a rare fatal brain disorder. With such grief within South Dakota’s Agricultural family, something needed to be done. Block and Bridle proposed an idea to merge the AGR Presidential Steer Show and the Block and Bridle Jackrabbit Classic. Alpha Gamma Rho quickly jumped on board and the Jackrabbit Memorial was created. This new show presented five scholarships in memory of the young lives that were lost, and provided a larger two-ring show for participants. Nothing but good comments and remarks were heard throughout the day, and one judge even commented this new show to be the largest, most prestigious show in the Dakotas. More than 200 cattle, representing at least 10 states, participated, and it was an outstanding way to preserve a memory of those who should never be forgotten.
Alpha Rho (Vermont) has really bettered the course of our Chapter over the past four to five months. We have had an extremely successful spring recruitment semester, a renewed focus on house maintenance and among many other things overall, just a stronger commitment to what it means to be an AGR. Our biggest Chapter accomplishment, though, stemmed from an idea from our Adviser. Our Adviser, Todd Pritchard, Vermont, recently introduced a program called the Faces of Agriculture. This program brings in former AGR alumni and UVM faculty who have a connection to the professional interests of our Chapter. We usually have one to two Faces of Agriculture visitors per month, and the guest speakers come in, give a 30-minute presentation and we treat them to dinner at the Chapter house. A lot of knowledge has been gained through the program, and the Alpha Rho Chapter is very excited to keep it going. Coordination of Faces of Agriculture has been assigned to the VNR Alumni Relations. We hope our system is adopted among other Chapters, as we feel there is a lot to gain!
Field Notes ALPHA KAPPA
Tennessee-Knoxville
Diversity a priority Many great events, programs and brotherhood outings have occurred at Alpha Kappa over the past few years, especially within this last year. Alpha Kappa has taken pride in the accomplishments brothers have achieved, the reputation we have on campus as an outstanding group of professional young men and the commitment we have to Alpha Gamma Rho’s Promise and Values. In our minds, Alpha Kappa’s greatest achievement this past year has been the Chapter’s growing diversity in its members within many areas, such as the wide array of undergraduates our chapter has from the agriculture college as well as the many other colleges. This diversity in undergraduate members has helped propel Alpha Kappa to a different level when it comes to participation and involvement in many on-campus clubs, organizations and interest groups. This, in turn, has aided in our recruitment process, as we have had access to a wider array of quality, top-notch young men to pull from during the recruiting process. Also, Alpha Kappa has grown in diversity from where our members come from— their individual backgrounds and hometowns in the United States and beyond. Overall, the Alpha Kappa chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho has been challenging the barriers and limits that critics of fraternity life throw our way as we continue to improve the fraternity that each one us dearly loves.
ALPHA UPSILON
Tennessee-Martin
New scholarships
The biggest accomplishment of our Chapter so far this year would be the announcement and establishment of the David Stroud Leadership awards. The David Stroud Leadership Awards are a permanent fund for two undergraduate brothers of Alpha Upsilon. These awards are in honor of Brother David Stroud who was active in the fraternity, serving as chaplain and athletics chairmen along with being active on campus. The first $1,000 award is to be given to an Outstanding Campus Leader who exhibits the principles of an AGR in making better men. The second award is to recognize fraternity contributions and leadership with emphasis being on a brother in financial need of the award.
Another accomplishment from this year is announcing the establishment of the John Spencer Freshman Scholarship. This scholarship is in honor of Brother John Spencer who was an active member of our alumni chapter and passed away in April 2012. This is a $1,000 scholarship, and it will be awarded each fall to an incoming freshman who demonstrates scholastic achievement as well as school and community involvement during their high school years. We are proud and thankful for the brothers that have allowed us to make these scholarships available. As always, our tight brotherhood from collegiates all the way up to our alumni brothers is an accomplishment for which words can’t describe.
BETA OMEGA
Missouri State
The Place for Personal Growth and Achievement For Beta Omega, we have always seemed to find a struggle with convincing young men in Missouri State’s Darr School of Agriculture that we are not just another fraternity. This year, we were able to do so in a great way by recruiting a large, dynamic class in the fall and adding yet another great spring class. Our chapter involvement as a whole is deep and strong and our member retainment is on point. Missouri State’s motto is “Follow your passion, find your place.” Many new members have made it clear that Alpha Gamma Rho at Missouri State is the place for them for personal growth and achievement. S PR I N G 201 5
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Field Notes BETA XI
Texas Tech
1,000+ Service Hours We the brothers of the Beta Xi Chapter located at Texas Tech are proud to report on a flourishing and successful year here in Lubbock. Membership in our Chapter is up nearly 50 percent from last spring. This increase in membership aided us in accomplishing our goal to have performed approximately 1,000 cumulative community service hours along with raising funds to benefir both local and national organizations. These organizations are including, but not limited to, Relay for Life, the Lubbock Lions Club, CASA of the South Plains, the West Texas Boys Ranch and others. We are looking forward to our upcoming events this semester and would like to extend a welcoming invitation to any collegiate or alumni brothers to attend our concert, featuring Zane Williams, and Randall King on May 2, 2015. Proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. If you have any comments, questions, or wish to contact us for any reason, you can reach us at ttualphagammarho@gmail.com. Left: Beta Epsilon Brother Isaac Davis presents the $2,900 donation to St. Jude.
BETA EPSILON
Arkansas State
Membership nearly doubles The Beta Epsilon Chapter has accomplished a lot of things in terms of membership and also philanthropic efforts. We had 18 new members in the fall and 10 new members in the spring. Our spring class is the largest we have had in a long time! We have nearly doubled membership in a single school year, and our total membership now consists of more than 50 undergraduate brothers. In the fall, we had our annual Greek Rodeo Philanthropy Event. We raised $2,900 in this fun event and donated it all to Arkansas State’s Up ‘til Dawn organization supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (at right). This donation made us Platinum Sponsors of the Event. Our donation contributed to the grand total of more than $36,000 for the Annual Spring Up ‘til Dawn event. This recruitment year, and also our donation, made us really proud of Arkansas State students and proud brothers of Alpha Gamma Rho. And, the school year is not even over yet!
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BETA IOTA
Truman State
Resurgence Beta Iota Chapter has seen some dramatic changes over the past year. For one, we’ve reached Fraternity numbers that have not been reached since 1984. We have grown from a six-man Chapter to a thirty-four man Chapter in only a couple of years. The Chapter has also become well recognized on campus and within the Greek community for our involvement with campus-wide philanthropy events and for our continued good standing with the Interfraternity Council and the University. Professors across campus look for invitations to our professional dinners and sign up quickly for our Fall Harvest service project. We’ve brought back the Fall Harvest service project and offer lawn work and leaf raking services to professors on a weekend and we further share our fraternity name in the campus community. We’ve also helped with the local Young Farmers & Ranchers Truck and Tractor pull as well as donated proceeds from philanthropies to the local FFA chapter. Our growth has sparked a renewal of alumni support and a further interest in the Chapter from outside companies and sources. We look forward to another great year and a greater influence on campus and in the community!
Field Notes ALPHA ZETA
Kansas State
Sell-A-Fella raises $5,600 for Cystic Fibrosis On February 6, 2015, the Alpha Zeta Chapter at Kansas State hosted its annual philanthropy, Sell-A-Fella. CHI
Cal Poly
Homeless Care Packages Distributed This last fall, the Chi (Cal Poly) Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho completed its most successful philanthropy to date, a Homeless Care Package Fundraiser for the holidays. The Chi Chapter wanted to ensure the homeless had sufficient warm clothing, plenty of food to eat and the opportunity to enjoy the pleasure of receiving a gift during the holidays. The Chi Chapter ended up raising $2,500, exceeding the goal of $1,500, and had several large clothing donations. On December 6th, brothers spent the day handing out care packages to the homeless across San Luis Obispo. The package were rolled in warm blankets and included toiletries, food and other necessities to make it through the cold months. Matt Lockwood, current VNR Planning, organized the philanthropy and was featured on the local Central Coast NBC station on the evening news. Chi Chapter was also featured in local newspapers and received a personal thank you from the President of Cal Poly and AGR alumnus, Jeffrey Armstrong. The Chi Chapter hopes this turns into an annual holiday tradition and is used as an example for Greek Life at Cal Poly and Alpha Gamma Rho chapters across America. And with the ever growing size of our chapter (90 members and counting), we hope each year can raise more money and create more packages than the last.
This event is a date auction where members of the Chapter get auctioned off to ladies bidding in the audience. In addition to the freshmen and sophomores being auctioned, our brothers serving in the roles of student body president and student ambassador
joined in on the action this year. The event gathered a large crowd, including brothers from Kappa Chapter (Nebraska-Lincoln). More than $5,600 were raised to benefit the Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in memory of Brother David Sewell, who lost his life to cystic fibrosis in 2009.
BETA DELTA
Illinois State
Growing! The Beta Delta Chapter here at Illinois State has had many accomplishments this year. This past fall, we initiated 23 new members and grew to 56 members in our Chapter, which has been the biggest we have ever seen. We also raised more than $9,000 during our Hog Roast philanthropy last fall. This spring, we initiated nine new members, increasing our Chapter to 64 brothers. We are very proud of what we have accomplished so far, and we continue to grow!
THETA
Missouri
A class for the record books
This fall, Theta Chapter had some major accomplishments. Our biggest accomplishment by far was having a forty-member class of new members. With many chapters, the thought of a forty-person new member class is ridiculous. We understood the challenge ahead of the whole Chapter—to help guide and develop our new members better than ever before—and these forty new members have excelled academically, socially and professionally. This fall, our new member class received an average GPA of 3.24, which helped Theta land at third overall on University of Missouri IFC grades. These new members also helped us accomplish a 2nd place in the Mizzou Homecoming competition. They have shown outstanding leadership ability, having already begun taking offices on the Alpha Gamma Rho executive Board as well as in the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources. Many of the new members are actively seeking internship opportunities in the agriculture field, with some already achieving this task. Overall, the fall 2014 class has helped our chapter in leading an academic resurgence while also holding up the other values that Alpha Gamma Rho instills in all members. S PR I N G 201 5
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Field Notes NU
North Carolina State
Founder’s Day Success signals ‘Nu’ era The Nu Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho has done some amazing things this past year, but our biggest accomplishment has been our recent Founder’s Day celebration where we had around 200 brothers and family members attend. We restarted Nu Chapter last fall, and we were told this was our largest Founder’s Day in more than 5 years. Our brothers spent the weeks leading up to Founder’s Day calling alumni, and we were able to bring together alumni who had not seen each other in years. The stories and memories they shared were priceless and made all our hard work worthwhile. We also had an awesome guest
speaker—former NFL player, Jason Brown, who gave up professional football to pursue his passion for farming. He shared his story of how farming gave more to him than all the money he could ever make playing in the NFL. We began a Founder’s Day raffle, and we made more than $4,000 by raffling off a Beretta shotgun, Yeti cooler and a $150 Visa gift card. Seeing the joy on alumni’s faces, some who thought Nu Chapter was all but gone, seeing the progress we have made and seeing that we were going strong, these things really drove it home to us how we are part of something so much larger than ourselves.
IOTA
Wisconsin-Madison
Getting involved to make a difference
The men of Iota Chapter at Wisconsin-Madison made a goal at the inception of the school year to become more involved in other Greek philanthropies. As a Chapter, we realized that if we would like other Greek chapters to get involved with our philanthropy, we should make every effort to participate in other philanthropic events to benefit the world around us. Already this year, our Chapter has broadened its outreach by getting involved with KAT at Bat, a competitive softball tournament, and Humorology, a competitive all-Greek musical competition. Also, AGR teamed with Alpha Phi, Delta Tau Delta and Chi Psi to raise more than $14,000 to support the local Boys and Girls Club. 22 SICKLE & SHEAF
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GAMMA DELTA
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
100th Brother Initiated
The Gamma Delta Chapter is proud to announce the initiation of their 100th brother with the spring 2015 Eta Class. Gamma Delta is highly involved on our campus and well recognized throughout the School of Agriculture for our community service and fundraising efforts with our semi-annual barrel races. We strive to be a shining light for others to follow, and the initiation of these new brothers certainly carries on the traditions for our Chapter. From the beginning, we always knew when we hit pin number 100 it would be a very special day. We have initiated six classes of new members as a Chapter, but the seventh class (Eta) will forever hold a special spot for many years because of the 100th brother. We have progressed tremendously as a chapter. Having only initiated four brothers with this year’s spring class, it certainly shows that we contend to select only the highest caliber of men on our campus. We know that we still have a long way to go, but are committed to “making better men.” The Gamma Delta brothers are excited to see what the future holds for our Chapter as well as our college. The current collegiate brothers look forward to returning in the coming years to see all of the success made by the first 100 men and the brothers to follow.
Field Notes RHO
Colorado State
Armed with AGRconnect and a vision, a member turns around membership development program Life this past year at Rho Chapter has been interesting, to say the least. With improvement in member numbers, financial stability, academics and Greeklife involvement, we have found that one particular area has excelled.
Nick has been using AGRconnect fairly extensively to find membership education material, general info about AGR and other chapters’ new member education plans, and we have seen a complete 180-degree turn in the program.
When the 2013 initiation class joined AGR, we learned an average amount about our Fraternity. That soon decreased to an extremely sub-par membership development program that was almost nonexistent. Enter Nick Bicket, Rho Chapter’s VNR Membership Development for 2015.
We have learned more about Alpha Gamma Rho in the last several weeks than we have during our entire time spent here at Colorado State so far. The extent of our education has not stopped at simply AGR history. We have been enlightened on
Sam Houston State
Installation! On December 6, 2014, Alpha Gamma Rho installed its newest chapter, Gamma Epsilon, at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in Huntsville, Texas. Forty members were initiated over the course of the weekend. The brothers of the Beta Nu Chapter from Texas A&M University performed the ceremony initiating the newest brothers of AGR. Alumni and national representatives, including Grand President Cal Willemssen, Executive Director Phil Josephson, Director of Recruitment Craig Parker, Jr., and Regional Vice President Cody Lane witnessed the
official initiation of the 40 brothers. Dr. Robert Lane, SHSU Professor of Agricultural Sciences is initiate number one and serves as the Chapter’s Adviser. The Sam Houston State colony was installed on May 11, 2012, and since then, members have actively participated in events hosted by the National Fraternity, including Recruitment Schools, Leadership Seminars and the 2012 and 2014 Alpha Gamma Rho National Conventions. The members have also remained very proactive in building relationships on campus and in the community by participating in events
subjects such as CSU history, professionalism, dining etiquette, our founding fathers, study habits, traditions and general keys to success. The best part of this program is that it is not only new members who are being educated. Both new and old members are making leaps and bounds in knowledge and interest in our beloved fraternity. Our chapter would not be the same without the implementation of this great membership development program.
Coming Soon! Caribbean Alumni Cruise
Charter members of AGR’s newly-installed Gamma Epsilon Chapter pose by their Chapter Charter with Grand President Cal Willemssen.
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such as the Heath Schielack Memorial Barbecue Cook-off and several philanthropies hosted by other organizations. J.O. “Bear” Wilson, Beta Sigma alumnus, was instrumental as off-campus adviser while the colony was getting established. Congratulations to all those who have played a role in the success of the brothers at Sam Houston State. Tenacity, sacrifice, hard work and dedication have brought the goals of these men to fruition. With the guidance of their adviser, the continued support of alumni and the steadfast passion of the members, the Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Sam Houston State University, which now boasts 34 student members, is expected to flourish in the coming years.
Connect with brothers and rekindle the fondness for our great Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity on a fun (and educational!) cruise of the Caribbean February 12-22, 2016. With stops in seven ports, this ten-day event will include tours of Caribbean agriculture available only to our AGR brothers and guests. Watch your mail in early September for the invitation brochure. Please start talking to your closest brothers, and plan to be in Miami, Florida, on February 12 as we depart for this fun-filled vacation.
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Right: Mike Hurt with a portrait of his father, Ron, and the portrait’s artist, Purdue Brother Mark Richardson. Mark Richardson was commissioned to create the portrait by his fellow Delta brothers, and the portrait was presented to Mike Hurt during the Brown County Alumni Gathering in August, 2014. Below: Ron Hurt, Purdue.
Old
Brotherhood FormsNew
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Ron Hurt was a ‘60s initiate of Delta Chapter, Purdue. After graduation from Purdue, marriage and the birth of his son, this Air Force Pilot was killed in Vietnam. Many AGRs kept track of the Hurt family over the years, and this past summer, Ron’s son, Mike, attended a Purdue alumni gathering at the Brown County State Park in Indiana. During this four-day celebration, Mike was initiated by Delta Chapter and a scholarship was established in his father’s honor. What follows is an open-letter from Mike.
Dear Fellow Alpha Gamma Rho Brothers, I have found through my own life’s experiences that there are certain moments in life, some small and others large, which can leave a truly profound effect upon others. And sometimes these special moments are so powerful, so impactful and so well executed, one has to logically conclude they could only be conceived by the Good Lord above. For me and my three year-old son, Dylan, this past August’s 2014 Brown County AGR events, as well as the several other moments surrounding it, represented these once-in-a-lifetime moments. Thanks to you, I now probably have as good of an image of who my father, Ron Hurt, was as I will ever have. Other than seeing some old pictures, having sporadic conversations with my mother who passed in 1997, sharing rare talks with my lovely Grandmother, and having other short discussions growing up, I generally would only hear very brief references about my Dad. All the talk about him would always be positive, which made me proud, but it was also always sad in delivery. My Brown County experience with you changed all of that for me. Your stories and conversations with me about my dad actually felt more like celebrations, rather than sad condolences. Thanks to all of you, I have some new words and thoughts, which now come naturally to me when thinking about my Dad, who was killed when I was two-and-a-half years-old. I now know for certain he was a strong, honorable man—one with integrity who was dependable, a leader, very smart and loyal. I also learned some fun things about him, which reminded me he was a male in his late teens and early twenties when you all knew him! But, most importantly, after hearing all of your wonderful stories, I can now add some new color to the image of my father.
Without a doubt, my Dad would have been a tremendous father and husband as well as a friend to all of you; he would be a God-fearing Christian today with the strongest moral foundation; he might actually still be playing basketball one night a week in a men’s league; golfing likely would also be his passion, playing with a 13 handicap, but always working hard to bring it down to an eight; his preferred method of transportation today would be either GMC 1500 pick-up or Ford King Ranch (but probably the King Ranch because Ford didn’t take any money in the 2009 bailout); and my Dad would still be active with all of you and would proudly display Boilermaker pennants across his home office reading Boiler Up! The Scholarship. During the ‘80s, I can remember having a conversation with my Grandparents about my Dad and Purdue. They mentioned to me that at one time, there was a small scholarship in his name, which eventually had to be retired. That always intrigued me. Then in the ‘90s, after my Grandfather passed, my Mamaw (Grandmother) brought it up again and mentioned that it would be nice to continue it in the future sometime. Fast forward to 2009 when these great men, Skip Poole, Tom Sommers, Tom Stierwalt, Pat Scheetz, Sandy Belden, Gene Speaker, Dave Caldwell, Ted Priebe and Don Hazelette, had a calling to reinstate this scholarship and rebuild it with a stronger base backed by the nationally supported AGR organization. Thanks to all of you, this new scholarship can sustain and grow into something really meaningful for young AGR Brothers to benefit from.
Thanks to you, I now probably have as good of an image of who my father, Ron Hurt, was as I will ever have.
I have never witnessed or experienced any network of individuals as strong and loyal as I have with the AGR Brothers.
The Brothership. I am blessed to have long time friends and a strong support group S PR I N G 201 5
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Attendees of the Purdue Alumni Reunion and Ron Hurt Memorial Fundraiser at the Brown County State Park in August 2014.
in my personal life. With that said, I have never witnessed or experienced any network of individuals as strong and loyal as I have with the AGR Brothers. My father was killed in March of 1970, almost 45 years ago, and your love and loyalty to your Brother is still with him. Amazing. My Dad would be honored and appreciative for all you have done for him regarding the scholarship and memorial. But I also believe he has a tremendous appreciation for what you have done for me and our family by including us in your memorial to him and making me a full-fledged AGR Brother. What an honor it is for me to be an AGR! I just want to take a moment to let you know what you have done for me and my family, coming purely from my perspective: You honored my Dad and your AGR Brother in the highest manner. You welcomed me and my family into your lives, which has positively and permanently affected us in ways you may never fully appreciate. You reinstated a very important scholarship to our family that will now live on indefinitely for future AGR students to benefit from.
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You invited me and my family the honor of participating in the presentation of this annual scholarship award moving forward. You left a permanent memorial of my father for me and my family to honor and cherish for the rest of our lives. You left me and my son, Dylan, the ongoing opportunity to permanently connect with the AGR house and Purdue with pride.
As my new father-like fraternity Brother and friend-for-life, Tom Sommers, said to me the other day, “What a difference one year can make in all our lives!” Saying 2014 was a great year for me simply does not capture the feeling I have for what you have done for my Dad, me and our family. We are all going down separate paths in our lives. In 2014, our paths connected during four great days in Brown Country. For me, this connection with you will never be forgotten. I can’t wait for a stronger and more connected future in 2015 and beyond. Thank you again, and have a Happy New Year!
And, many of you have become like family to me now for which I’m eternally grateful. Finally, you made me an Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity Brother. I can honestly say there is no greater honor for me than to be part of this incredible Brotherhood. Many of you witnessed my pride and emotions during the Brown County ceremonies. Please believe me when I say this pride and my commitment to give back to the AGR’s will continue as long as I’m around.
Sincerely, Mike Wayne Hurt P.S. During one of the Brown County ceremonies, I mentioned how thankful I was to both Ralph and Nancy Livengood. Ralph was my Godfather, and your fellow AGR Brother, whom I did not know as well as I wish I did now. Nancy was his wife who tried so hard to put me in touch with the AGR Brothers after Ralph’s passing. Nancy proudly fulfilled one of Ralph’s last asks of her to get a hold of me. After her tireless efforts over a couple of years, we finally connected in September 2012, just a couple of months before she passed away on April 21st, 2013. Thanks Ralph and Nancy.
Q&AGR
Q&AGR EIGHT QUESTIONS FOR REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT AND ARKANSAS ALUMNUS WILL SCHUHKNECHT Will Schuhknecht first began serving the Fraternity in 2001 as the Alpha Iota Chapter VNR Membership Development— and later, as Noble Ruler. More than a decade later, his service has continued well past graduation as he’s taken on the roles of Alpha Iota Alumni Board Vice President (2009-2014) and Regional Vice President of the South Central Region. How has your membership in AGR impacted your life and career?
position and what role it plays within the whole Fraternity system.
Being a member has given me lifelong friends and connections all across our state—and the US, for that matter. Since AGR is a social/professional fraternity, it was clear early on that success in careers and in work-life is an important part of making better men. Many of the leaders in my company are AGRs and that mentality is clear in their work ethic.
What has been the most enjoyable thing about being an RVP?
What made you want to be a Regional Vice President? Just the opportunity to serve my fraternity at a national level and give my home chapter and the other ones I support a better voice and connection with the National Fraternity. What has been the most surprising thing about being an RVP? How little a lot of the chapters know about the
I have enjoyed traveling to National Convention and a Leadership Seminar and interacting with young members. It had been a while since I had been to those events. What’s the best advice you ever received? My Granddad used to tell us to “put your best foot forward.” While simple advice, I’m always amazed at how meaningful it can be. What was your childhood ambition? Really, to be tied to agricultural in some way. I really always thought it would be through a hobby farm or cattle operation. Little did I know, I would end up working for one of the largest ag companies in the world with no personal farm of my own!
Looking at you, no one would guess that… I’m not really as dumb as I look! [laughs] Seriously, though, no one would guess that once upon a time, I gave back to my community by working as a part-time police officer. It’s true!
“My Granddad used to tell us to ‘put your best foot forward.’ While simple advice, I’m always amazed at how meaningful it can be.”
What’s the accomplishment of which you are most proud? Becoming a parent. It is a very special thing.
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The Last Pass
In Praise of Fraternity Life on Campus A RESPONSE TO A NEWSWEEK EDITORIAL CALLING FOR THE ELIMINATION OF GREEK LIFE By Peter Smithhisler
IN HIS FEBRUARY 4, 2015,
piece, “The Fraternity No Longer Belongs on the American College Campus,” Alexander Nazaryan recklessly capitalizes on overblown, negative stereotypes of fraternities to imply that Greek life is the catalyst for all the troubles facing campus life today. The author couldn’t be more off base. Unfortunately, his radical view of fraternity life adds to the litany of media coverage in recent months that seeks to tear down an institution that I believe is as important on college campuses as any extracurricular activity, including athletics, student government and even the hallowed student newspaper. The author’s piece is flawed for several reasons. But his most egregious error is his apparent insistence that—because a handful of fraternity members are accused of improper behavior—all fraternities and fraternity members are bad. Specifically, the 28 SICKLE & SHEAF
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author suggests that the very real challenge of sexual assault on campus must be laid at the feet of all fraternity men. The reality is, fraternities are taking the lead on educating students about sexual assault prevention and awareness. Not only do fraternities provide training each year to their members around the country, the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), which represents 74 fraternities, has formed a commission of educators, lawyers, researchers and other leaders to provide additional recommendations for addressing and eliminating sexual assault on campus. I believe our effort, along with the effort of many others dedicated to campus life, is paying off. According to the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Studies, rape and sexual assault on campus has actually declined significantly since 1997. According to the study, an average of nine out of every 1,000 students in 1997 was a victim of rape or sexual assault. By 2013, that number had dropped to 4.3 per 1,000 students. Likewise, the study showed that women ages 18 to 24 not at college were actually 1.2 times more likely to be victims of rape or sexual assault. Now, in my opinion, no number other than zero is good enough. This is why I formed the NIC Commission on Sexual Assault, which will meet throughout the spring and summer to tackle this very important issue. At the same time, I feel obliged to tell the true story of fraternity. Each year hundreds of thousands of men find their home away from home through the fraternity experience. Fraternity members are good men who become better students, better campus leaders and better friends through the fraternity experience. Additionally, fraternities raise and donate tens of millions of dollars to charity and volunteer millions of hours in their communities every year. On average, fraternity men have higher grade point averages and graduate at higher rates than their non-fraternity peers. Yet, no one seems to pay attention to any of this. So let me share a
few examples. At the University of Alabama-Hunstville, members of Phi Kappa Psi have spent months building “tiny homes” as shelter for homeless in the area. The fraternity has partnered with other organizations to help power the homes with solar energy, and to provide support and training to those who live there in order to help them find jobs. In Mississippi last month, members of Alpha Phi Alpha joined with the American Red Cross in Columbia, Mississippi, and committed to volunteering and raising money for disaster relief in an area that is often struck by tornadoes. And at the University of Utah, the men of Beta Theta Pi have been helping lead the conversation on the campus about sexual assault, and are partnered with the Rape Recovery Center on campus to hold forums on campus for students and specialists.
I am personally offended by the vitriolic attacks of fraternity detractors who prefer knee-jerk reactions to finding real solutions for the challenges facing today’s college campuses. I am personally offended by the vitriolic attacks of fraternity detractors who prefer knee-jerk reactions to finding real solutions for the challenges facing today’s college campuses. Rather than sniping at an easy target, I believe we would be better served if people spent their time more productively looking for answers to these daunting challenges. For our part, that’s what the NIC and its member fraternities intend to do. Peter Smithhisler is president and CEO of the North-American Interfraternity Conference, a trade organization representing 74 national and international men’s fraternities. His article is republished with permission from Newsweek.
Our Roots
Left and Below: Sickle & Sheaf, Volume 1, Issue 1
THE SICKLE & SHEAF HERITAGE Sickle & Sheaf has a rich tradition. The official magazine of Alpha Gamma Rho has been published continuously since 1910, and the first issue was produced in July of that year. “Volume 1, Issue 1” was 32 pages long and had content similar to what you found in this issue— chapter updates, National Fraternity information and a couple of feature stories. Though things certainly have changed in 105 years, including the look and format of the magazine several times, it’s clear that Sickle & Sheaf's purpose to inform and engage members really hasn’t changed that much. The most recent redesign and reformat is exciting for Alpha Gamma Rho, but this new chapter in Sickle & Sheaf history is written upon 105 years of tradition and success. Here’s to the next 105 years of Sickle & Sheaf!
Read about the recent Sickle & Sheaf redesign and rebranding process in the first issue of S&S, Alpha Gamma Rho’s new e-newsletter. Make sure we have your email address on file! Update your information at alphagammarho.org/update-info or call the Home Office at 816-891-9200.
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Don’t Miss a Single Story! KEEP CURRENT WITH THE ALPHA GAMMA RHO FRATERNITY THROUGH THE NEW S&S E-NEWSLETTER, THE SUPPLEMENT TO YOUR BIANNUAL SICKLE & SHEAF Every month, you will receive the S&S via email, with insightful stories and traditional favorites. Don’t miss the special behind-thescenes look at the Sickle & Sheaf redesign, the AGR Chapter Consultant’s year on the road, in addition to recent awards and your brothers who are “On the Move.” Be sure to update your email today at alphagammarho.org/update-info or call the Home Office at (816) 891-9200.