THE MAGAZINE OF ALPHA GAMMA RHO AGRICULTURE FRATERNITY âž» SPRING 2018
Meet Rex
New CEO for Alpha Gamma Rho
Doing What is Best To Phil Josephson, the essence of leadership is doing what is best for the good of the group. For more than 45 years, the lessons he learned allowed him to help form what the National Fraternity is today.
Top 10 in NOLA Explore the energy in New Orleans this August
Field Notes
Chapters report on their accomplishments
In Earnest
It was something I wanted to be a part of. FOUNDATION SCHOALRSHIP RECIPIENT: Kade Hill CHAPTER AND SCHOOL:
Alpha, Illinois
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED: J. Wayne Rehn Scholarship
“I simply wouldn’t be able to attend the University of Illinois and be a member of Alpha Gamma Rho without scholarships like this one.”
LIKE MANY SMALL TOWNS IN ILLINOIS, PAXTON
has strong roots in agriculture. But not everyone who grows up near farming is necessarily close to the ag industry — University of Illinois sophomore and Alpha Chapter member Kade Hill was proof. “I didn’t grow up knowing a lot about agriculture - far from it,” Hill said. “My dad runs a painting business and my mom works in healthcare.” Until his freshman year of high school, agriculture was never really part of the plan for Hill. But then, he walked into the ag classroom at Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School — and his plan was about to change in a big way. As soon as Hill joined National FFA, something clicked. He dove in head-first and started embracing all the leadership opportunities FFA has to offer. He ran for chapter secretary — and won. Then, he ran for chapter president — and won. Then, he ran for section president — and won. Then, he ran for state president — and won. When Hill started his year as Illinois FFA President, Alpha Gamma Rho wasn’t on his radar. But by the end of his term, Hill knew where he wanted to make his college home. “I’d go to ag-related events all over the state, and the name ‘Alpha Gamma Rho’ kept popping up,” said Hill. “Like FFA, I saw AGR as an organization deeply rooted in the ag community, and it was something I wanted to be a part of.” Hill was initiated into Alpha Chapter at the
YOUR PURPOSEFUL MISSION
University of Illinois in August of 2016. With his membership came the opportunity for scholarships through The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho. In fall of 2017, Hill was fortunate enough to earn the J. Wayne Rehn Scholarship — and it’s made a huge difference. “As someone who’s working his way through college, every dollar counts,” said Hill. “I simply wouldn’t be able to attend the University of Illinois and be a member of Alpha Gamma Rho without scholarships like this one.” An Agriculture Education major, Hill is using the scholarship to pursue a career teaching agriculture and being an FFA advisor. This AGR scholarship isn’t just helping forge Hill’s future — it’s potentially helping forge the future of young people in agriculture for many years to come. “My agriculture instructors gave me the guidance to accomplish more than I ever imagined I could,” said Kade. “If I can pay it forward and have that kind of influence on the next generation of ag students — that just sounds like a dream job to me.”
The J. Wayne Rehn Scholarship is one of the many scholarship opportunities supported by The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho. Brother Rehn, Illinois, served as Vice Grand President for the National Fraternity and was a dedicated supporter of the Foundation. His wife, Jean, worked with the Foundation to establish the scholarship in his memory in 2012.
The mission of The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho is to drive Alpha Gamma Rho’s Purpose of Making Better Men. YOUR contributions support scholarships, leadership development training and experiences, opportunities to make life-long connections and more. Every gift to the Foundation, YOUR Foundation, is an investment in the future and makes an impact in the lives of worthy brothers. We thank you for entrusting YOUR Foundation with YOUR gift. Make a gift today at alphagammarho.org/donate.
Table of Contents
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9 24 SPRING SPRING
2015 2018
4 Sickle & Sheaf
SRPING 2018 | VOLUME 106 | ISSUE 1
Published continuously since 1910 EDITOR
Dave Korbelik DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
22
Caitlin Stauffer CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Loren Kruse, Becky Haley, Ted Priebe, John Ruebush, Patrick Scheetz, Steven Wagoner, Jeremy Zweiacker
Departments AGR E L E VA N C E
2
News from the Home Office and the world of Greek-letter organizations TR ANSITIONS
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Tria Designs, Inc. 8
9
26 Reid McLellan, Convention Chairman, is excited to show brothers what New Orleans has to offer
Q & AG R
Doing What is Best
10
AGR Evolution in Phil’s 45 Years
14
Top 10 Things To Do at AGR National Convention
FIE LD NOTE S
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 Bolingbrook, IL, and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Sickle & Sheaf, 10101 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153-1366.
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Reports from our chapters T H E L A S T PA S S
24
SUBMISSIONS FOR SICKLE & SHEAF
alphagammarho.org/share-your-news caitlin@alphagammarho.org
Take note of these four numbers
Features
BUSINESS MANAGER
Philip Josephson
Honoring those brothers who have departed THE PILL ARS
32
36
The next 25 years of the Brotherhood Program S PR I N G 201 8
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AGRelevance
2018 Grand President’s Award Winners In February 2018, four extraordinary Brothers were selected to receive the 2018 Alpha Gamma Rho Grand President’s Award. Administered and nominated by a selection committee, the Grand President’s Award is given 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. Eric Halverson, Jason Hart, Garrett Hawkins, and Kevin Heikes were honored with the award at the four 2018 Leadership Seminars in Memphis, Reno, Kansas City, and Philadelphia. Each recipient spoke of the great opportunities out there for Alpha Gamma Rho members and the lessons that can be learned throughout their undergraduate years and beyond.
For more information, or to nominate a brother for a future award, visit alphagammarho. org/grandpresident-award 2
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Garrett Hawkins
Jason Hart
Garrett Hawkins was raised on a diversified farm near Appleton City, Missouri, where he, his wife Jennifer, and their three children reside today. He attended Missouri State University where he was a founding father of the Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho. In 2002, Hawkins earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business. Following graduation, Hawkins served as the national legislative programs director for Missouri Farm Bureau for 14 years where he directed the organization’s national advocacy efforts and policy development process. During his tenure with the organization, Hawkins was appointed to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s General Counsel Advisory Committee and Farm Bill Working Group. In March 2017, Hawkins was appointed Deputy Director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture. Hawkins provides advocacy training at the Missouri FFA Association’s HYMAX and HYPE academies each year. Also a graduate of the Missouri Agricultural Leadership of Tomorrow (ALOT) program, Hawkins has served on the organization’s board of directors for over six years. Among his many accomplishments Hawkins was awarded the Honorary American FFA Degree, and the Honorary Missouri FFA Degree. During his acceptance speech, Hawkins shared his thoughts that all young leaders within agriculture should aspire and “do more.” Hawkins used the example of “feed more, reach more, connect more, and empower more” — part of Missouri Department of Agriculture's new initiatives.
Jason Hart attended Clemson University where he was initiated in to the Beta Zeta Chapter in the fall of 1995. During his time at Clemson, Hart served as Beta Zeta’s VNR Recruitment, VNR Activities, and Vice President on Clemson’s Interfraternity council. In 1999, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology and a minor in marketing. Upon graduation, Brother Hart began working in the hunting and fishing industry as a sales representative for Avery Outdoors. He continued working in different sales and marketing positions for major companies within the industry, including Under Armour’s Outdoor Division and Mossy Oak. Hart was awarded Emerging Markets Sales Manager of the Year by Under Armor in 2006 and Sales Person of the Year by Sports, Inc. Buying Group in 2010. In 2014, Hart and other former Under Armour coworkers, including Beta Zeta Brother Josh Reed, founded Marolina Outdoor, Inc. Marolina Outdoor has two brands, Huk Performance Fishing and NOMAD Authentic Hunting. While accepting his award at the Reno Leadership Seminar on February 10, Hart discussed the importance of making connections through the Fraternity. He shared his story of making AGR a priority and how it has contributed greatly to his personal success. In the last 3 years, Marolina Outdoors has become a multi-million-dollar company employing 50 full time and 50 part-time employees. “That’s 100 families that have been impacted by a brotherhood that started at Beta Zeta Chapter in South Carolina,” Hart said. “Just keep up with folks, in 10 years you might be doing multi-million dollar deals with them.”
MISSOURI STATE
CLEMSON
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.
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! ELITE
DIAMOND
Kevin Heikes
Eric Halverson
Kevin Heikes attended Colorado State University where he was initiated into Rho Chapter in 1996. As an undergraduate, Heikes was involved in the President’s Leadership Program, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Agricultural Council and Collegiate Livestock Judging. In 2000, Heikes graduated from Colorado State with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness and continued his schooling at Kansas State University where he received a Master’s in Agribusiness in 2010. Heikes spent almost a decade helping grow Farms Technology, an online and mobile grain trading AgTech startup. In 2015, he was selected by Kansas City Business Journal as a 2015 Next Gen Leader. In 2016, Brother Heikes became the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer for IN10T, a digital agriculture company. IN10T is focused on solving farmer adoption challenges in agriculture and committed to advancing agriculture innovation by improving farmers’ profitability, productivity, and sustainability using advanced technologies and processes. Heikes was honored with his award at the AGR Leadership Seminar in Kansas City, Missouri on February 17. During his acceptance speech, Heikes shared his story of struggling with a heart condition that put him and his family through 4 life-threatening strokes. He emphasized how hard times help you to reflect on what is most important in life and how important it is to make the most of the time you have. “Keep understanding your ‘why’ and keep writing your story,” Heikes said, “Putting others first, and making others better, will help you make yourself better in the long run.”
Eric Halverson was raised on the farm in Forest River, North Dakota. He attended North Dakota State University, where he was initiated into Epsilon Chapter in 1995. In 1999, Halverson graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Bio-Systems Engineering. Upon graduation, he returned to the Halverson family farm, known as Black Gold Farms, as one of the fourth-generation family members. In the fall of 2014, Eric succeeded his father, Gregg, as CEO of Black Gold Farms, a multi-state farming operation focused on potato production in excess of 25,000 acres. Brother Halverson has been active in the industry as a member of the Association of Agricultural Production Executives (AAPEX), where he was elected to serve as President in 2017. He currently sits on the Board of Potatoes USA. Halverson serves on the Grower Shipper Board of United Fresh and is also the current Vice President of the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association. Halverson was honored with the award at the AGR Leadership Seminar in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 24. During his acceptance speech, Halverson spoke about patterns of successful people. “They know where they want to go and then they make decisions that will allow them to get there. They don’t wait for things to happen, they make it happen.” Learning how to adapt to situations and work with others’ different personalities, especially within an Alpha Gamma Rho chapter, was another highlight of Halverson’s advice. “As you transition into a career, it is so important to leverage those experiences of learning how to work with different people into effective and cohesive teamwork in your work place,” Halverson said.
COLORADO STATE
NORTH DAKOTA STATE GOLD
BRONZE Bader Rutter | Zen-Noh Grain SPONSOR AgReliant Genetics | PIC Plaquemines Port
FIND US. FRIEND US. FOLLOW US. @alphagammarhohq @alphagammarho Alpha Gamma Rho: Social/ Professional Ag, Food, Fiber, & Life Sci. Fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho S PR I N G 201 8
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AGRelevance
A LITTLE COMPANY D
Big Thin Right: The fall 2017 complete renovation of Kansas City Royal’s Kauffman Stadium took around seven weeks. Over 400 semi loads of material were moved out of the stadium and then back in. Bush’s crew started on October 2nd and finished by Thanksgiving, which exceeded their goal.
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AGRelevance
DOING
ngs
WHEN STEVE AND JULIE BUSH GOT
measuring sports fields. Equipment that is
married, farming was a big part of their fu-
used includes GPS and a robotic controller
ture plans. Farming in the 80’s was tough,
which allows for some of the most precise
and while struggling to pay bills, they
fields in the industry.
needed a way to make ends meet. Steve
Steve says that Bush Sports Turf is a
bought a Land Pride Seeder for $3,200
“little company doing big things.” This little
and got to work seeding residential yards.
company has been named as one of the
While working in the residential setting,
top turf companies in the country and can
he heard a golf course was being built in
replace the turf of a major league field
Silvis, Illinois and decided to track down
in as little as 10 hours. They provided the
the leader of the project. Steve convinced
turf for the U.S. record-breaking crowd of
the man in charge to let him submit a bid
109,318 fans when Manchester United and
on installing the turf for the course and
Real Madrid played at the University of
his bid was accepted. TPC Deere Run’s
Michigan’s stadium “The Big House.” They
champion golf course, the site of the
also renovated the field at Dodger Stadi-
John Deere Classic PGA tour event, was
um in Los Angeles for the World Base-
the beginning of a career that would
ball Classic. Bush Sports Turf’s team has
bring a different kind of “farming” to
turned fields over from a sold-out concert
the Bush family.
to perfect playing surface the next day.
Now, Steve and Julie own Bush Sports Turf in Milan, IL. While Steve puts his Agronomy degree to use in the field, Julie provides the accounting, bookkeeping, HR, and other functions learned with her Agribusiness degree. From the original Land Pride Seeder pulled with a rented tractor, a company that has completed work for some of the biggest names in sports was born. The University of Iowa, Iowa State, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Marquette are some of the universities the company has provided a playing surface for. Professional teams like the
Bush Sports Turf ... has been named as one of the top turf companies in the country and can replace the turf of a major league field in as little as 10 hours.
Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals, Milwaukee Brewers, and the
Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho at the Uni-
expertise. Steve and Julie performed a
versity of Illinois in 1986. He feels AGR has
complete renovation for the Cardinals’
had an impact on his experience within
Busch Stadium in the fall of 2016 and
the industry.
most recently a complete renovation from drainage to new sod and infield of the Kansas City Royal’s Kauffman Stadium in fall 2017. Bush Sports Turf is more than a sod company. The company is a design and
“It’s interesting how many AGRs you meet in this profession,” said Steve, “I have run into Brothers when working on fields and buying sod in different parts of the country.” Brother Bush has also given back to
build firm that works with soil mixes,
Alpha Gamma Rho by landscaping Alpha
drainage and irrigation. They can offer
Chapter’s house and offering internships
clients 3-D robotic (RTS) field mapping
to AGRs when he is able.
& grading with 2mm accuracy and Steve
As for the Bush family’s original
has designed specialized equipment and
farming plans, the couple feels it has
holds several patents on designs that
worked out nicely.
have brought innovation to the industry. One such patent is a rover that is used for
Steve Bush was initiated into Alpha
Detroit Tigers have benefitted from their
“It’s still farming,” said Steve, “the fields are just a lot farther apart.”
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AGRelevance
2018 Undergraduate Directors Four Brothers were recently named the 2018 Undergraduate Directors on the National Board of Directors for Alpha Gamma Rho. Del Adcock, Carter Jones, Michael Wijesinghe, and Dustin Winston were selected for this position based on their responsibility, leadership and contribution to the Fraternity. AGR believes in order to remain successful, collegiate representation and input on Fraternity issues is a must. They will serve a one-year term.
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Del Adcock is a junior at
Carter Jones is a sophomore
Michael Wijesinghe is a junior
Dustin Winston is a junior
Kansas State University
at North Carolina State
at University of Maryland
at the University of Idaho
and was initiated into the
University and was initiated
and was initiated into Alpha
and was initiated into Beta
Alpha Zeta Chapter of Alpha
into Nu Chapter in September
Theta Chapter in September
Phi Chapter in August 2015.
Gamma Rho in August of
of 2016. He has served as VNR
2016. In 2017, he served as
He has served as the VNR of
2015. He served as Alpha
of Recruitment throughout
VNR of Recruitment and he
Finance for his chapter, and
Zeta’s VNR of Recruitment in
2017 and 2018. Brother Jones
currently serves as Noble
currently serves as the VNR
2016 and Noble Ruler in 2017.
is an Agricultural Business
Ruler. In the spring of 2016,
of Member Development.
Brother Adcock is an Agricul-
Management Major and stays
Michael co-founded the
Brother Winston is pursuing
tural Economics major with a
involved in the Agricultural
campus’s hydroponic club and
a Bachelor of Science degree
minor in Animal Sciences. At
Business Management Club,
currently serves as President.
in Agricultural Business and a
Kansas State, Del is involved in
serving as Vice President, and
He also sits as an elected
Bachelor of Science Degree in
the College of Agriculture Am-
has been elected to serve
member on the College of Ag-
Finance. He hopes to continue
bassadors, AGEC Club, and is
as President for the 2018-19
riculture and Natural Resourc-
on to a career in risk man-
a fellow within the Center for
school year. He is also on the
es Student Council Executive
agement and market analysis
Risk Management Education
officer team for Ducks Unlim-
Board and is an Agriculture
focusing on commodities, spe-
and Research (CRMER). Del
ited at NC State. Throughout
Ambassador for UMD. Michael
cifically dairy. At the Universi-
has an internship with Bartlett
the summer of 2018, he will
is pursuing a degree in Agri-
ty of Idaho, Dustin is involved
Grain this next summer at their
be interning with Ag America
culture Science and Technol-
as an Ambassador/Intern for
Great Bend, KS, location as
Lending. Jones’ long-term
ogy with a concentration in
the College of Agricultural and
a merchandising intern. His
plans are to serve his agricul-
Environmental Horticulture
Life Sciences, and serves in
long-term career goals after
ture based community as an
and a minor in Sustainability.
the President’s Office.
his graduation in the spring
attorney at law.
In the future, he plans to work
of 2019 are to work within the
in the greenhouse industry
field of grain merchandising or
and focus on nursery or hydro-
livestock risk management.
ponic crop production.
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AGRelevance
President of the National Auctioneer’s Association Scott H. Shuman, Colorado State alumnus, was elected the 69th President of the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) in July 2017 at their International Conference and Show held in Columbus, Ohio. NAA represents the interests of more than 4,000 auction professionals in the United States, Canada and across the world. The association provides continuing education and a commitment to a strong core code of ethics for the auctioneer industry. Shuman of Eaton, Colorado is employed as a Real Estate Partner and Auction Specialist by Hall and Hall Auctions. Hall and Hall was founded in 1946 as an agricultural mortgage company but since has branched into farm and ranch brokerage, real estate marketing, property resources management, auction services and more. Hall and Hall has emerged as the largest full-service rural real estate firm in the Rocky Mountain West and Great Plains regions, managing more than one million acres of land, and servicing a loan portfolio of more than $500 million. Shuman was born and raised on a family shorthorn cattle, sheep and hog farm in Colorado. During high school and throughout his college years, Shuman worked as a local auctioneer, completed the Professional Auctioneer Certification with the Missouri Auction School and the Accredited Auctioneer Certification with the Certified Auctioneers Institute in Bloomington, Indiana. His auctioneering experiences helped to pay his college expenses throughout college. In May 1992, Shuman graduated with a bachelor of science in Agricultural Education from Colorado State University. During his college years, he was an Ag Ambassador, President of the Ag Council and a member of the National FFA. In May 1994, Shuman earned his master of science degree from Purdue University.
As a member of Rho Chapter, he met and socialized with many AGR alumni who introduced him to other agricultural leaders around the country. Shuman believes it’s important for collegiate members of to get involved within the agriculture industry. “Get involved with chapter and campus activities at their universities, contact and network with as many AGR alumni as possible,” said Shuman, “Seek advice from AGR alumni about best possible future directions within ag industries and any other valuable guidance and counsel they may offer.” When he’s not working for Hall and Hall Auctions, Shuman stays busy with a 500-acre wheat farm in eastern Colorado. He conducts approximately 22 benefit auctions per year and has completed $250 million in sales in the last four years. One of his benefit auctions in 2018 will be the Bid for Better Men live auction during the AGR National Convention in New Orleans on August 2-5, 2018.
2018 AGR CAREER FAIR IN NEW ORLEANS! Whether you are part of a company looking for dedicated, young advocates of agriculture, or an AGR Brother searching for a summer internship or full-time employment, the 2018 AGR Career Fair is the perfect opportunity for you! This event allows agricultural companies to gain exposure to AGR members, and gives undergraduates the opportunity to network with potential employees. Alpha Gamma Rho had great success with the first ever AGR Career Fair during the 2016 National Convention with over 20 companies present and countless connections made. We want to grow that experience EVEN MORE this year! The 2018 AGR Career Fair will be held on Friday, August 3, 9:00am-12:00pm during the 65th AGR National Convention at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside in New Orleans, LA. Register for AGR National Convention, update your resume, and prepare for an amazing networking opportunity. Are you an alumnus interested in having your company present? Make sure to reserve your space! Contact Sarah Curfman, Administrative Coordinator, at 816-891-9200 ext. 110 or sarahc@alphagammarho.org.
Become a Corporate Partner and get a booth included during our Convention and Career Fair! Involvement in the AGR Career Fair is included with any Corporate Partnership silver level and above! For information on how you can become a Corporate Partner of Alpha Gamma Rho, contact Brad Garrison, Chief Development Officer, at 816-891-9200 ext. 121 or brad@alphagammarho.org. S PR I N G 201 8
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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 Jerry Overton, 1972
Montana State Lones W. Wigger, 1956
Auburn Harry C. Hugghins, 1951 Herman E. Majors, 1960 Robert H. Mount, 1951
Nebraska Raymond E. Crawford, 1939 Wayne M. Hansen, 1951 Gerald A. Langemeier, 1953
Cal Poly Mark Vanderdussen, 1987
New Hampshire Haven H. Hayes, 1974
South Dakota State Gary W. Williams, 1964
California‑Davis Roy S. Rosedale, 1954
North Dakota State Lennart G. Almen, 1948 Dale D. Bergland, 1953 Melvin P. Bork, 1946 Jack R. Dahl, 1949 John V. Dietz, 1948 Norris T. Fagerlund, 1942 Ralph D. Johnson, 1941 Raymond C. Schnell, 1942
Southern Illinois Larry G. Desutter, 1983 Daniel L. Winans, 1971
Ohio State Paul F. Bachman, 1943 John M. Easterday, 1958 Donald S. Postle, 1942 Robert E. Spangler, 1956
Tennessee‑Martin Paul N. Blount, 1965 Charles W. Grooms,1964 A. Manson Morrow, 1967 Paul S. Parker, 1969
Colorado State Robert L. Wardell, 1957 Georgia Tommy T. Irvin, 1977 Charles E. McIntosh, 1955 William H. Worrell, 1947 Illinois Harold D. Bergman, 1936 Don G. Knoche, 1980 Iowa State Kent A. Ringkob, 1961 Kansas State Richard J. Chase, 1947 Armin O. Samuelson, 1949 Marvin L. Samuelson, 1951 Kentucky James L. Ewbank, 1957 Samuel L. Smith, 1965 Maine Francis W. Drake, 1956 Michigan State "Russell" G. Mawby, 1946 John D. Reitenour, 1964 Minnesota H. Mead Cavert, 1940 Bernard Cranston, 1943 Michael E. Motl, 1977
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Oklahoma State Ronald E. Little, 1955 Garland M. Troub, 1957 Penn State Robert C. Antram, 1953 Ronald E. Barrett, 1964
Virginia Tech Moses A. Clements, 1975 West Virginia Greg S. Forejt, 1978 Christopher A. Sanders, 2008 Western Kentucky Jenks S. Britt, 1966 Wisconsin‑Platteville Duane C. Sherven, 1974
Tarleton State Heath W. Hodges, 2001
Wisconsin‑Madison Kenneth J. Kopp, 1948 Vaughn N. Sorenson, 1955 Victor H. Steuck, 1951
Tennessee‑Knoxville Linden L. Gill, 1951
Wisconsin-River Falls Lance R. Schmidt, 1988
The Pillars
Rec ruit
Edu cat e
Com m
ze
f ber o Num inary d r o extra hers Brot into cted indu all H GR the A over e m of Fa st la e h t ars. e y 44
Starting in the 1940’s, “officer training schools” were developed for AGR Chapters. In 1975, the name was changed to “Leadership Seminars” and in 1985, the seminars were moved to professional properties, occurring four times a year.
1,732 donors have made a gift this year, as opposed to 597 donors in the year of 1975, when Phil Josephson was appointed to Executive. 147,927 gifts total have been made to The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho since 1975.
Rec ogn i
66
23,900
28,286 of those Brothers were initiated under the Brotherhood Program, installed in 1992, which eliminated pledging for the Fraternity.
it
ors, Don AGR giate colle both i, in n alum rs and ea y 5 4 Phil’s e. rvic of se
f ber o Num hip s er Lead s inar m e S to ided prov ds n a s thou te llegia of co rs e b mem last the r e v o . ears 45 y
192
43,230
hers Brot to ted in initia amma aG Alph Phil ince s o Rh n phso Jose ted ppoin a s wa e iv ecut to Ex . 5 7 in 19
AGR Hall of Fame began in 1974 at the 43rd National Convention in Knoxville, TN. Three more Brothers will be inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 2018 Convention, August 2-5 in New Orleans.
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By Mara Tharp and Caitlin Stauffer
To Phil Josephson the essence of leadership is doing what is best for the good of the group. As a leader in Alpha Gamma Rho for more than 45 years, the lessons he learned throughout his childhood and collegiate years allowed him to help form what the National Fraternity is today.
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Doing What is Best
O
n his family farm in Stillwater, MN, the family was dependent on everyone doing their part, even if that meant hand-milking all of the cows when the electricity was out, or choosing between doing housework and cleaning the chicken coop. Phil’s parents owned a 100-acre dairy farm, which served as the stage for most of Phil’s memorable childhood experiences. “I’ve swatted my share of mosquitos, caught my share of walleyes, shocked my share of oats, thrown my share of cow pies, and cried my share of tears when my favorite cow died,” Phil shared in a 1996 acceptance speech. With six other siblings and hard economic times, money was tight — but to Phil, this was an opportunity to learn to make the best of what he had. “We weren’t poor,” Phil said. “We were blessed, and we learned to work with what we had.” It was on the farm where Phil learned to “accept whatever you have as adequate,” but this lesson did not stop him from a career of service and leading change.
“We weren’t poor,” Phil said. “We were blessed, and we learned to work with what we had.”
“My mother continues to be an inspiration for me and so many, many more,” Phil said. “She is the epitome of decency and goodness.”
After graduating from Stillwater High School in 1968, Phil attended the University of Wisconsin- River Falls, where he studied Agricultural Business and Economics. Before his senior year in college, he decided to study abroad in Denmark, a choice that none of his fellow agricultural students made at that time. After his arrival in Scandinavia, it became apparent that his university and the Denmark college had different curriculums.
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“I didn’t know what I was getting into,” Phil said. “No one really knew what to do with me. I spent a lot of time trying to explain my ideas and the curriculums. It was definitely a newly traveled path for me, my professors, and my advisors.” Working through obstacles became a trend during Phil’s abroad experience. He was robbed on a train ride, traveled through countries behind the Iron Curtain, and even helped a friend who was wrongly jailed for over a month.
[While studying abroad, Phil] was robbed on a train ride, traveled through countries behind the Iron Curtain, and even helped a friend who was wrongly jailed for over a month. From top down: Phil settles into his temporary office in Kansas City while the Home Office building is constructed in the late 80s; One of seven children, Phil spent his childhood on a dairy farm in Minnesota; Phil married Jane on July 10, 1976 and celebrated with friends and family in Ironwood, Michigan.
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Despite these obstacles, Phil enjoyed his chance to see the world in ways that he could never have imagined as a college student in the Midwest. Unlike today’s college students, Phil was not able to Google how to get places or text someone for help. “You have to remember, we didn’t have cell phones or GPS to find our way
around,” Phil said. “We used maps, and most of the time just our intuition. I learned how to seek answers for myself, and though I came in a bit naive, I grew in the process.” Growing in the process describes many of Phil’s endeavors, like his membership and servitude to Alpha Gamma Rho. At one point in college, Phil disassociated himself from AGR and what would become much of his life’s work. In the process of rushing during his freshman year, Phil found that pledging situations did not match his values, or those that he felt a fraternity should hold as important. He chose to leave AGR during the pledge program, and was surprised when the AGR Chapter President, Bill Boehm, later came to visit him in his dorm. The upperclassman personally asked Phil, a freshman at the time, to give AGR another chance. This intentional act convinced Phil to continue with the fraternity, under the condition that the inappropriate pledging activities would no longer occur. Before he had become a full member of the Fraternity, Phil was unknowingly making better men out of his peers. Around 23 years later, that same pledge program was done away with at a national level for AGR, allowing for men like Phil to find a place in a fraternity that truly represented strong values. He did not know it then, but the Minnesota farm boy was just starting his journey of leading change in Alpha Gamma Rho. While he was passionate about the fraternity and served as an Assistant Treasurer, Rush Chair, and President in his collegiate years, AGR on a national level was not what Phil had planned for his career. In fact, he turned down two job offers from Maynard Coe, the Executive Secretary of Alpha Gamma Rho in the spring of 1972. Coe was persistent, and later sent his assistant, Ted Priebe, to Wisconsin-River Falls to better explain the position to Phil, and convince him it was a great opportunity for new graduates. On Sunday July 17, 1972, Phil found himself in Des Plaines, Illinois, interviewing with Maynard Coe. That evening he wrote a letter to his girlfriend, Jane — now his wife of over 41 years— and mentioned the interview was “surprisingly
Phil and his wife, Jane, have been married for over 41 years. They have two sons, Noel and Hans, and three grandchildren, Preston, Oliver, and Emery.
and differently genuine.” He closed the letter “I’ll have to wait and see ... more interview in the morning.” Sure enough, morning came and Phil was persuaded to start working for Alpha Gamma Rho in mid-September, with his new role as Assistant Executive Secretary. “I agreed because it meant I could travel the country, and I fully believed that I would work for two years and be done,” Phil said. “I thought that I was going to go to law school after that ... I didn’t have any inkling that I would be working with AGR in the future.” Law school, however, was not in the cards for Phil. As the years went on, it seemed as though AGR was just as passionate about Phil as he was about AGR. Every time he thought he was done, he would be asked to continue in another position. While this was never his plan, his dedication to Alpha Gamma Rho allowed him to find a passion in serving others. He said he enjoyed working with young people and seeing those men grow to be “good citizens, husbands, fathers and grandfathers.” Despite an incredible amount of his life spent with AGR, Phil’s achievements do not reside only in the fraternity world. His list of roles in his community includes a presidency of the KCI Rotary Club and of Kansas City Society of Association Executives, along with his dedication to Gashland Presbyterian Church in Kansas City as an elder and Finance Chair. Phil’s values, aside from the AGR Values he reviews almost daily, begin with
God and family first. In a speech from the 1990s, Phil reflected on what he cares most about. “I care a lot about my wife, Jane, and my boys Noel and Hans. I care a lot about my folks and my family. I care a lot about Alpha Gamma Rho,” said Phil.
“My mother continues to be an inspiration for me and so many, many more,” Phil said. “She is the epitome of decency and goodness.” Phil and his wife, Jane, were married in Ironwood, Michigan on July 10, 1976. They have two sons, Noel and Hans, a daughter-in-law, Amy, and three grandchildren. Preston, Oliver and Emery. Phil undoubtedly finds inspiration for making the most out of life from his parents and growing up on the farm. Phil’s mother is still living on the farm at the young age of 102. “My mother continues to be an inspiration for me and so many, many more,” Phil said. “She is the epitome of decency and goodness.” The Josephson family sees Phil’s service to Alpha Gamma Rho as a great example of dedication and passion. During Phil’s 40-year celebration in 2015, his son, Hans, took the stage to honor
his father with a light-hearted approach. “I will obviously be taking it easy on him,” said Hans, “since I would like to remain in the will.” He mentioned his father’s tendency of putting his best foot forward and always remaining best-dressed. “My Dad likes to be well dressed, but I think that at times he would go a little overboard,” Hans said. “For example, we always knew he was going to work on the lawn after church when he changed out of his dress khakis and put on his casual ... khakis. “In all seriousness, though, I’d like to take this opportunity to say that I’m very proud of my dad,” Hans continued. “The fact that he has been working at AGR for over 40 years shows that he is passionate. He is passionate about his faith, family ... especially his grandkids, work, service to others, and of course, golf. I’ve learned a lot from him in my lifetime and I know my children will as well. Thanks, Dad.” Phil plans to bring the same ongoing passion for life into his retirement and seeks to spend more time doing what he and his family wants to do. He looks forward to golfing, of course, and reading for his own enjoyment, which includes reaching his goal of reading the entire Bible in one year. “I’m ready for it, and I’m perfectly happy about turning over the baton,” Phil said. “There were many things I loved to do (in my job), but I’m ready to enjoy the little things. I want to do the best for me, my wife, and my family.”
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AGR Evolution in Phil’s 45 Years For 45 years, Phil Josephson has worked collaboratively alongside numerous AGR volunteer leaders, Home Office staff and involved brothers to help develop Alpha Gamma Rho into the premier agricultural
1973 Last use of the mimeograph machine as AGR headquarters gets its first selectric typewriter.
1972 Phil joins Ted Priebe, Hilda White and Maynard Coe on the staff in the basement of the Coe family’s home in Des Plaines, IL. AGR makes transition from the old, filed address cards, stored on top of the washer and dryer, to the first database.
1986 Chapter officer structure moves to Noble Ruler and several Vice Noble Rulers with designated functions.
fraternity it is today. Starting on the staff on September 18, 1972 and named AGR’s executive on
1987
January 1, 1975; he and AGR
Move into current Home Office building near Kansas City airport. First laptops used in staff operations as a gift of Gene & Cathie Lemon.
have seen many momentous changes over the years. Phil has worked with 23 Grand Presidents; 212 members of the National Board; 115 Trustees on the Housing Resources Trust Board;
1990
17 Chairmen of the Educational
First Risk Management Policy adopted fraternity-wide which has been a standard bearer admired by many other Greek organizations.
Foundation; 174 Directors of the Educational Foundation Board; 194 Regional Vice Presidents; hundreds of Chapter Officers, Housemothers, Advisers, Alumni Officers and many, many colleagues on the AGR Staff. As Phil turns over the chief executive reins, Sickle & Sheaf takes a look at a few milestones of AGR progress, success, and innovation over the last 45 years under his guidance.
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1988
1989
AGR becomes first fraternity First of its kind to implement a no-pledging ‘Recruitment School’ program on a test basis as the begins setting the Chapter House Improvement stage for thousands of Program. First Chapter Assistance graduates trained to sell Program conducted with capital the benefits of AGR. campaign for a new chapter house at Purdue University.
1991 Adviser Forums established, providing training for hundreds of graduates serving AGR chapters.
1976
1979
New National Constitution & Statutes is approved at AGR Convention in Fresno, CA, paving the way to a corporate structural approach and effective nominating process that has helped shape AGR’s premier leadership position.
Annual fundraising appeal moved from ‘dues program’ in the general fraternity to the annual appeal in The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho.
1974
1975
1978
Gene Lemon, Phil’s mentor, is elected Grand President at AGR Convention in Knoxville, TN. A Constitution & Statutes Committee is implemented to rewrite and modernize AGR’s Constitution.
Phil is appointed AGR’s executive and Maynard Coe transitions to serving as Director of Administration. For the first time in its history, AGR moves its operations to commercial office space in Des Plaines, IL.
National Headquarters capital campaign successfully implemented, and a task force formed to provide the capital for a long-term business office for AGR — paving the way for the Foundation and Fraternity working seamlessly together.
1983 First fax machine utilized for the office.
1985
1984
1981
Leadership Seminars moved from campus and chapter sites to commercial, professional properties.
National Headquarters moves from Des Plaines, IL to commercial leased office space in Kansas City, MO.
First PC computer (10K model) purchased for very rudimentary administrative functions.
1992 AGR becomes one of the first fraternities to implement a fraternity-wide membership program to substantially eliminate pledging and hazing, called the Brotherhood Program. A herculean effort is put into place to train alumni volunteers on the Brotherhood Program, who then traveled to every chapter in the country to support the full implementation and address questions and concerns.
1993
1994
The ‘Chapter House & Alumni Management Plan’ is implemented to provide financial management, business practices, budgeting and auditing procedures in all AGR chapters.
Partnership develops with Sigma Alpha Sorority which results in collaboration and joint venture of national Leadership Seminars.
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1995 AGR’s ‘Chapter House Loan Fund’ transforms into the ‘Housing Resources Trust’ in recognition that loans had become an insignificant part of the mission and housing advice and counsel were more important.
1996 AGR launches its first comprehensive national website.
1997 First of many AGR Housemother Forums is conducted to bring specific training to a critical position in AGR chapters.
2008
2007
2006
2005
AGR is rebranded providing a unique, relevant and consistent new direction, mark, Promise and Values.
First fraternitywide Facebook page is created.
Staffing model is enhanced with a specific staff member assigned to focus on recruitment and expansion.
Major improvements are made to AGR’s ritual after review from a ritual committee.
2012 AGR website is repurposed, and AGRconnect learning portal is added.
2010 AGRconnect campaign is initiated and the initial life-learning platform with courses, modules, toolboxes and so much more is developed
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2014 SICKLE & SHEAF magazine is moved to a multi-platform communication process between print, digital and web.
1999
2001
National Liability Insurance Program is implemented as an effective weapon against legal attacks and to protect all AGR assets at local and national levels.
Individual chapter strategic planning sessions are started to provide strategic direction for all chapters and alumni associations.
1998
2000
The 2nd Century Capital Campaign is launched to build capital for several strategic initiatives through the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho.
Corporate sponsorship program is developed to enhance the career development and placement activities of AGR.
2002 AGR Home Office staffing model is adjusted to include a development officer for the alumni development and fundraising activities of the AGR family.
2004
2016 First AGR Career Fair at National Convention in Omaha for career development, placement and internships.
The 2004 Convention observes the Centennial of the fraternity at its birth place, recognized 100 years of accomplishments, and set the path for the decades ahead. AGR recognized 1% of its members, 800+ Brothers, who have contributed above and beyond as Brothers of the Century.
2003 Repurposed Leadership Seminars into learning centers based on 21 core competencies and training with four trained facilitators leading the efforts — with Sigma Alpha collaboration.
2018
2015
2017
Implemented ‘Officer Portal’ online to continually move chapter transactions into the digital age.
Phil announces his retirement one year out. AGR hires a national search firm and identifies a national search committee of AGRs who conduct their work successfully.
Phil retires May 31, 2018, and looks back upon an AGR history filled with ‘Making Better Men.’ “So many exciting, productive and good years."
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Bull
Josephson
Coe
Sleeter, Maynard, Phil and Me by Gene Lemon (Illinois)
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DURING MY 50 YEARS OF SERVICE IN
Alpha Gamma Rho, I have worked with our three long-time Executive Secretaries, Sleeter Bull, Maynard Coe and Phil Josephson. Certainly, a number of other brothers can say the same, although probably none more closely for so long. During Sleeter’s tenure, the Home Office was located in the basement of his home on Michigan Avenue in Urbana, Illinois, and the staff consisted of Sleeter, a part-time secretary, and Maynard as the part-time chapter services consultant and expansion director. In Maynard’s years, the Home Office was originally located in the basement of his home on Cornell Avenue in Des Plaines, Illinois. The staff consisted of Maynard, a secretary and two young chapter service consultants. Change has been more dramatic in Phil’s years. The Home Office was moved to a rental office space nearby, and then relocated to Kansas City and into a building constructed by the Foundation and mostly leased by the Fraternity. Gone are the typewriters and carbon paper, replaced by computers, sophisticated software, and other technology. Today there is a medium-sized staff of 10-12 full-time employees. Under all three executives, our Fraternity has grown and prospered. But as I look back, each executive’s modus operandi was distinctly different. For starters, Sleeter travelled very little. Yet he stayed in close touch with each chapter. He did that by regularly speaking by telephone with each Chapter Adviser and, as he saw fit, each Alumni Association President. Sleeter did not neglect expansion, but he relied on Maynard to identify the opportunities, make the contacts, plant the seeds, do the visits, and monitor the progress. Chapter visits did not occur on a regular scheduled basis. They were conducted by the volunteer leaders of the Fraternity, frequently during the summer, and included housing assessments, ag school and university relations, and always sought the input of local alum leaders. I am not as familiar with the financial operations of AGR under Sleeter as under Maynard and Phil, but Sleeter chose downtown, large city hotels for the Fraternity’s meetings and paid attention to quality in the services obtained. Maynard, on the other hand, was the consummate tightwad. He moved the Fraternity’s meetings to college dorm facilities and associated food service.
Unlike Sleeter, Maynard loved to travel. He made many chapter visits personally and also kept the two chapter service consultants on the staff busy making chapter visits and exploring locations for additional chapters. The period of Maynard’s service was one of rapid growth in the number of chapters, as that was his primary focus. Maynard saw the job as being a leader for all AGRs everywhere. He wrote an article which appeared on the inside back page of every issue of the Sickle & Sheaf magazine, each of which encouraged better behavior, better stewardship, and better performance by all members of the Fraternity. It is interesting to me that in one such article, written in 1974, Maynard advocated that pledges be initiated as soon as they met our standards, suggesting that five weeks as a pledge was probably long enough. Finally, there’s Phil. My observation is that his focus, particularly in the early years of his tenure, was on undergraduates and their chapters. No doubt this was due to his age — he was 25 and barely graduated from college himself — and he was most comfortable dealing with his peers. Over the years, of course, the focus changed. That was due, for the most part, to the changes happening in the world around us. There was a dramatic rise in litigation against fraternities which led to the formation of an insurance program covering all undergraduate members, alumni associations and their officers and directors and the National Fraternity. As Phil’s tenure increased, so did his influence and stature in the North-American Interfraternity Conference and like organizations. While Sleeter had struggled to win for AGR recognition as a social-professional fraternity, it was not until Phil’s time that the Fraternity became an influential NIC member.
As Phil’s tenure increased, so did his influence and stature in the NorthAmerican Interfraternity Conference and like organizations. While Sleeter had struggled to win for AGR recognition as a socialprofessional fraternity, it was not until Phil’s time that the fraternity became an influential NIC member.
In 1961, Brother Gene Lemon (right) served as Noble Ruler of Alpha Chapter at the University of Illinois and was a frequent visitor with Sleeter Bull, Alpha Gamma Rho’s first executive secretary. Lemon served as AGR legal counsel for fifty years, starting in 1967. He was also elected Grand President of Alpha Gamma Rho in 1974, in absentia, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1994. Gene is one of the few AGR Brothers still alive who can say they’ve worked closely with all three executives of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. S PR I N G 201 8
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What I’ve Learned in AGR and Life
ff Maintain a life balance. It’s God and Family first — remember that.
ff Keep your honesty and integrity — always. ff The AGR Purpose and Ritual are rock solid.
ffThe Promise and Values of Alpha Gamma Rho are always worth defending. ff Listening is the hardest skill for a person to master — it is a skill that needs constant attention and improvement.
ff Be loving, kind and considerate. ff Hire the very best people you can and make staff morale a priority.
ff Get a solid nominating process that only allows the election of the best volunteers for any office. ff If in doubt, do not hit the ‘send’ button.
From milking cows on a small town Minnesota dairy farm to four decades of leading Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity — Phil Josephson has learned a few things along the way. Through personal experiences and advice from mentors and colleagues, he has developed into a better leader, brother, mentor, and friend. Here are a few words of wisdom, as Phil reflects on what he’s learned.
ff If you are responding to an angry email message — draft your response and sit on it for a day. ff Don’t rush to judgement – you may not have all the facts.
ff Change is inevitable but progress is optional. ff Don’t let social media consume you. Put down the device and talk to someone.
ff God gave you two ears and one mouth — use them in that proportion. ff When it comes to solving problems, there is nothing wrong with right now.
ff Laugh . ff No one likes surprises — Communicate, communicate, communicate ... Just when you think that you have communicated everything, review and communicate some more.
ff If you say you are going to do something — do it. And do it on time. ff Be positive — there are plenty of naysayers in life. Be a cheerleader for everyone, including yourself.
ffTake care of the little things so the Board is not tempted to meddle. ff You can’t please all of the people all of the time. But, if you acknowledge input and opinions from others with respect, you’ll come a lot closer.
ff Be reasonable and just in your dealings with others. ff Expect personal responsibility to be the first line of justice.
f“Work f hard so you can play hard,” a phrase learned from my Dad. Have some fun. 20 SICKLE & SHEAF
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By Dave Korbelik (Colorado State) MEET REX MARTIN (ARKANSAS), THE NEW CEO OF ALPHA GAMMA RHO. He now sits in the AGR Home Office in Kansas City, Missouri, which on the map is really not far from his roots growing up on a swine operation in Camden, Arkansas. Rex started in leadership roles early, serving as his home state’s FFA President. He attended the University of Arkansas, in Fayetteville and was initiated into Alpha Iota Chapter in 1986. Brother Martin graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Ag Business in 1989 and has invested the last 28 years of his career in leadership roles and supporting agriculture. Rex knows how to get started on the right foot and deliver results. Evidence is the numerous awards recognizing his leadership commitment to agricultural organizations, including the William Larue award from the Southern Crop Production Association, the Croplife America Workhorse Award and the Missouri Corn Growers Association and American Agri-Women President’s Award. He also was the first-ever recipient of the Kansas Ag Retailers Association’s “Standing TALL” award.
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Q: So, 45+ years of leadership from Brother Phil Josephson, what excited you about taking the challenge of filling those shoes? REX: Well, I love a challenge. It is really good to come home to Alpha Gamma Rho. Let’s get one thing straight, no file or computer would be able to capture all the understanding, knowledge and wisdom that Phil has gained over his years of service. As a brotherhood, we owe him a great deal. My goal now is to begin a positive transition. Phil has and will continue to be a huge help. As Head of External Relations at Syngenta, a global agribusiness company, Martin’s responsibilities included leading engagement with agricultural groups, setting and implementing North American Syngenta ag and environmental policy, directing the Federal Government Relations department and managing
Syngenta’s “Leadership at its BestSM” training program. He then served as Senior Vice President of Owner Relations for Dairy Management Inc. His responsibilities included leading a team managing Farmer Relations, Agricultural External Engagement and Crisis Communications. Most recently, Rex served as Vice President of Government Relations for States Strategies providing lobbying, issue management, coalition building and industry outreach to clients.
Q: What are some key areas of your past experience that will help you most with this important role? REX: First, being an AGR brother really helped kickstart my career which has been focused around leadership and helping develop leaders. Working many years with local, state and federal organizations and government relations ... success lies in building relationships. This fits perfectly, because we are a brotherhood — a true lifelong relationship.
Q: We will be covering more of your future plans in upcoming communications. Let’s focus today
on the near-term, what do you see as primary goals for your first 100 days? REX: First and foremost is to listen and learn. This includes listening to our staff, alumni, boards and committees. And it will be very important to visit with and listen to brothers at the collegiate level. I want to learn and understand. I work for you, my AGR brothers. The more I learn the more I can help address issues that face our fraternity. And (with a grin) of course I’ll be asking Phil a lot of questions during this transition!
Q: You’ve had a little time since taking over the helm, any surprises so far? REX: Pleasantly surprised with how well managed this organization is … especially when you take into account what negative perceptions can be associated with fraternities in general. I’m learning more about how complex fraternities are to manage! Much more so than other non-profits. I am definitely pleased with the organization. Don’t get me wrong, we can always improve and set the bar higher, but it’s good to know things have been run well.
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Alpha Gamma Rho’s biennial National Convention serves as a time for Brothers to join together for fun, fellowship, and to focus on the future of the fraternity. AGR Brothers from all over the country gather to reunite with old friends, connect with prominent leaders in agriculture, transact business of the Fraternity and more. The 2018 AGR National Convention will be held August 2-5, 2018 at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside near the famous French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. Here are some of the top things to do while attending AGR’s 65th National Convention in NOLA.
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Top 10 Things To Do at AGR National Convention 1.
2.
Network
Find a Job or Promote your Business at AGR’s Career Fair
Over 400 alumni and collegiate members of Alpha Gamma Rho are expected to be at the 65th National Convention. These are leading professionals in the agriculture industry that you need to know! There will be endless opportunities for networking with brothers from all over the country.
Alpha Gamma Rho’s Career Fair will be held on Friday, August 3 at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside from 9:00AM-12:00PM. This event will allow agricultural companies to gain exposure to AGR members as well as give undergraduates the opportunity to network with potential employers. Are you an alumnus interested in having your company present? There are limited spaces! For more information, contact Sarah Curfman, Administrative Coordinator for Development, at sarahc@alphagammarho.org.
4.
3.
Determine the future of the Fraternity
Celebrate Phil’s 45 years
The future of Alpha Gamma Rho is up to its members. Attend the business sessions during the AGR National Convention to stay upto-date on what is happening within Alpha Gamma Rho and have a say on important matters you care about. AGR leaders should be in attendance to ensure both collegiate and alumni members determine the future of the Fraternity.
Celebrate the retirement and over 45 years of service from AGR CEO Phil Josephson. The Phil Josephson Recognition Dinner will be held on the evening of Friday, August 3, at Mardi Gras World. This large, colorful venue provides an authentic Mardi Gras experience all year round. Tour the operating workshop that has created breathtaking floats for Mardi Gras and other parades around the world since 1947. Many past AGR leaders will be in attendance to honor Phil. Make this the AGR reunion of a lifetime at Mardi Gras World in New Orleans!
5.
7.
Bid in the Bid for Better Men Auction
Get Recognized
If you’d like to support Bid for Better Men Auction, please visit www.alphagammarho.org/ auction-item-donation and send your auction item prior to July 20, 2018 to: Gary Hamilton 50 Colony Rd. Gretna, LA 70056-7026 gary@gvhamilton.com
6. Explore #NOLA The Hilton New Orleans Riverside is in a prime location to explore the energy of New Orleans. Take the riverfront street car straight from the hotel into the famous French Quarter and other great attractions! French Quarter (4 blocks from hotel): The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré or the “Quarter”, sits on a crescent along the Mississippi River in New Orleans. Besides its obvious architectural distinction, the Quarter offers visitors a plethora of different experiences. Take a stroll through Jackson Square as you enjoy street performers and local artistry. This picturesque square and dramatic garden, sitting just in front of the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, offers a charming and intimate French Quarter view. Audubon Aquarium of Americas (3 blocks from hotel): Located on the Mississippi River adjacent to the French Quarter and down the street from the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. Touch a sting ray, feed a parakeet, and marvel at gigantic sharks, tarpon, and sting rays in the 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Exhibit.
AGR’s National Convention Awards luncheon on Friday, August 3, and Hall of Fame Awards banquet on Saturday, August 4, offer an opportunity for collegiate and alumni members to be recognized for their great accomplishments. Witness the recognition of our Chapter Awards, individual scholarships, and the induction of our newest Hall of Fame members at the 2018 National Convention.
8. Attend Workshops Take advantage of professional development opportunities at AGR’s National Convention. There are multiple breakout sessions throughout the event which include different workshops that highlight topics including career planning, risk management, alumni relations and more. There will also be a panel discussion with industry experts discussing the Future of Greek Life on college campuses, a timely and controversial topic.
9.
Explore History at the World War II Museum The Thursday night venue includes a chance to dive deep into American history at the National WWII Museum. This museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so all generations will understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn. Join your Brothers at this incredible venue for our opening evening event on Thursday, August 2.
10. Beignets The New Orleans’ beignet — a square of fried dough sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar. It’s like a donut funnel cake and you have to have it. Make sure to visit the iconic Café du Monde, home of the famous beignet, during your stay!
ISTOCKPHOTO F11PHOTO
Brother Scott Shuman, President of the National Association of Auctioneers, will serve as our auctioneer for the 2018 Bid for Better Men live auction. The live auction will feature larger items secured by the Foundation or donated by fellow alumni, while the silent auction will feature more modest gifts donated by chapters and other alumni. AGR’s biennial Bid for Better Men Auction will be held Saturday evening, August 4th, during the Hall of Fame Awards Banquet. Proceeds from this event support the national Fraternity through The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho.
PAUL BROUSSARD
Bid for Better Men—Support the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho and bid on items showcasing chapters around the country. We anticipate the 2018 Bid for Better Men Auction will be the most successful yet!
NOTE OF CAUTION: You will get powdered sugar all over your business attire—it’s unavoidable, but, it’s worth it. Try to refrain from beignets before attending the career fair on Friday.
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Q&AGR
Q&AGR Reid McLellan feels his AGR experience was instrumental in helping prepare him for service as Chairman of the Advisory Committee for the 2018 National Convention in New Orleans. He promises visitors a memorable time in a great city that is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. McLellan earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University in 1993. During his time at LSU he was initiated into Alpha Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho. He is now a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Belle Chase, Louisiana, earning his CFP® designation in 1999. He enlisted in the Louisiana Army National Guard in 1989, received a commission as second lieutenant in 1993, and served until being honorably discharged in 1996 as a first lieutenant. Reid has served AGR as President of the Alumni Association of Alpha Epsilon Chapter for three years and as chairman of the chapter’s educational foundation for 10 years. Reid has served his community as President of the Belle Chase Lions Club, Chairman of the Board of Plaquemines Association of Business and Industry, and President of Boston Club West, a social club on the west bank of New Orleans. How did you choose Louisiana State University and Alpha Gamma Rho?
How has AGR fulfilled its mission and promise to make you a better man?
I was born bleeding purple and gold as both of my parents along with numerous other family members were LSU graduates. Also, my paternal grandfather was a chemistry professor at LSU. I was not familiar with fraternities when I moved into the dorm to start my college career. Two of my former high school classmates encouraged me to go through rush to see what Greek life was about. The moment I walked into the AGR house, I knew it was the place for me.
My brothers at Alpha Epsilon Chapter helped me through college in numerous ways. I struggled to balance the academic side with the social side of college life. The upperclassmen at the time taught me that you can work and have fun at the same time. I owe a lot to the example they set. I tell people all the time that being the Noble Ruler of my fraternity in college was one of the most challenging and rewarding times of my life. I learned a lot about trying to lead a group of peers. I also learned a lot and about who
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I was and what my strengths and weaknesses were as a leader. Attending leadership seminars and recruitment schools helped me develop skills that I still use in my business today. I continue to grow as a person and to become a better man. It has been very rewarding to mentor new brothers over the past 25 years as an alumnus of AGR.
“We have a saying down here: ‘Laissez bon temps roulez!’ Let the Good Times Roll!.”
What inspired your attitude of service in volunteer activities, such as those of the upcoming National Convention? Alpha Gamma Rho has given me so much that
I feel compelled to help in any way I can. I am proud that the city of New Orleans was selected to host the convention and I wanted to do my part to make it a success.
As advisory committee chairman, what do you want visitors to know most about this year’s convention? New Orleans is a great city to visit and constantly ranks as one of the best tourist destinations in the world. We have excellent special events including one at Mardi Gras World and another at the National World War II Museum. We invite attendees to come a day or two early or stay a day or two later so they can explore the city and surrounding areas. We have a saying down here: “Laissez bon temps roulez!” Let the Good Times Roll!
Field Notes CHAPTERS REPORT ON THEIR
Single Most Important Accomplishment of 2017 SIGMA CHAPTER
Washington State
ALPHA SIGMA
Fresno State
Celebratory Ski Trip
Highest GPA
Alpha Sigma Chapter at Fresno State was recognized for earning the highest grade point average among all other fraternities on campus. The brothers collectively held an average of a 3.00 GPA throughout the fall 2017 semester, with 8 Brothers earning a 3.50 or higher. This was the secondhighest GPA within the entire Fresno State Greek System, falling only 0.02 grade points behind the highest GPA from Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. “Alpha Sigma Chapter strives to accomplish academic excellence and place education first,” said Laine LaGrande, Noble Ruler for the Chapter, “Brothers will continue to hold ourselves accountable and make better men!” To maintain this level of achievement, the chapter conducted weekly study hours during which brothers could work together outside of the classroom. Brothers in the same major and classes formed study groups to help one another succeed.
ALPHA CHAPTER
Illinois
Sexual Assault and Bystander Intervention Program During the 2017 fall semester, Alpha Chapter at the University of Illinois hosted their own sexual assault and bystander intervention program as part of a new initiative between the University and the Interfraternity Council. In order to address the growing problem of sexual assault on college campuses and to help fight the negative stigma that has fallen onto Greek life, Alpha Chapter teamed up with the Interfraternity Council to educate members and bring awareness of the issues surrounding sexual assault. During this program, attendees discussed what is deemed sexual assault, how to identify possible situations, and how to properly stop these situations as a bystander. “We had an overwhelming attendance from the whole chapter,” said Andrew Johnson, Noble Ruler for the Chapter, “We are proud to be a part of this new initiative to help make our campus and Greek community safer, and look forward to continuing this program for years to come”
Sigma Chapter at Washington State University recently held their annual formal ski trip on the weekend of February 18, 2018 in McCall, Idaho. The majority of the collegiate brothers and their dates travelled to western Idaho for some great weather and fresh powder at the Brundage Mountain Resort. Members who chose not to ski took part in snowmobiling and exploring the town of McCall. After a day in the snow, brothers gathered at the Shore Lodge Inn and celebrated their successful fall 2017 semester, which included an above university average GPA, the initiation of 14 new members, and 10 hours of community service per collegiate member.
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Field Notes LAMBDA
Minnesota
NU CHAPTER
North Carolina State
Adopt-AHighway Starting January 2018, Nu Chapter at North Carolina State University began a new endeavor into a community development service project. The Chapter decided to participate in Adopt-A-Highway (AAH) and adopted a stretch of a state road just past the university’s animal education unit. This project requires brothers to work together to clean litter, debris, trash, and recyclables along this 2-mile road twice per semester. The AAH Program was established in 1988 by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in response to growing public concern regarding litter along the state's highways. Its purpose is to decrease the amount of litter on North Carolina's roadsides and improve the beauty and quality of the environment. On average Adopt-A-Highway volunteers pick up four million pounds of litter annually. “We were looking for a new way to get our name into the community that could also serve as a service project for the chapter,” said Anthony Scala, VNR of Activities for Nu Chapter, “I had been a part of an Adopt-A-Highway project in the past, so I knew this would be an awesome, yet relatively simple way for us to achieve both tasks.” The Adopt-A-Highway program requires participants to review safety modules, submit cleanup reports, and coordinate with county representatives throughout their 4-year contract. The brothers feel it also serves as a way to recruit potential new members, as the program has placed “Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity” signs on each side of the road. “It only requires about 8 hours per semester, but can make a much larger impact,” said Brother Scala.
Fall Festival
On October 4th, 2017, the Brothers of Lambda Chapter at the University of Minnesota hosted their annual Fall Festival philanthropy event. The Chapter blocked off the street in front of their chapter house on campus to make room for activities including a 32-foot inflatable obstacle course, carnival dunk tank, and a petting zoo. The animals for the petting zoo were calves and lambs from the barns on campus, as well as golden retriever puppies from a member’s family farm. “The animals were a big hit,” said Adam Stevermer current Noble Ruler for the Chapter, “it gave us an opportunity to promote agriculture to attendees.” Overall, Lambda Chapter collected over $2,000 for Habitat for Humanity – a non-profit organization that helps build affordable housing for those in need. “Many Brothers spent hours working on this event to make it successful,” said Stevermer, “we are proud of the impact we had on our community.” The 2017 Fall Festival was one of the most successful philanthropy events for Lambda Chapter in recent years.
ALPHA UPSILON
Tennessee-Martin
GreekFest Champions Alpha Upsilon Chapter at The University of Tennessee -Martin has experienced a great start to the Spring 2018 semester by winning the annual GreekFest competition at the university. GreekFest is a week-long competition in which all Greek organizations on campus compete in fundraising, community service, and special events such as line dance and a step show. After hours of hard work and preparation, the Alpha Upsilon Chapter was named UTM’s GreekFest champions!
28 SICKLE & SHEAF
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Field Notes ALPHA TAU
+A
Western Illinois
25 Years of Smokin’ Hog Alpha Tau Chapter at Western Illinois University recently hosted their 25th annual Smokin’ Hog event on October 14, 2017. Smokin’ Hog was started in 1992 as a fall philanthropy event where the chapter roasts hogs and invites the community for a pulled pork dinner. Each year the hog roast has grown more popular within the Western Illinois community. In recent years, the Chapter has developed a great working relationship with the Volunteers Interested in Benefiting Everyone (V.I.B.E) Organization and their founder, Kassie Courson. V.I.B.E is an organization that donates money throughout the Western Illinois community to help those in need. The 2017 Smokin’ Hog proceeds were donated to several locations throughout the Macomb, Illinois community including the McDonough County SWAT team and the local YMCA. “We are also donating $500 to help pay the medical bills of one of our alumni whose son is having severe liver issues,” said Daniel Woodrow, VNR Activities for Alpha Tau Chapter. For the past several years, the Chapter has had great luck with perfect weather for the outdoor event. “This year was a different story,” said Woodrow, “we received about 2.5 inches of rain throughout the day and into the evening.” Despite the weather, Smokin' Hog was a huge success as the brothers roasted seven hogs and fed over 500 people. The rainy weather also posed an issue for the annual concert that the Chapter usually hosts in their parking lot following the dinner. The Forum, a nearby music venue, saved the day and let the Chapter use their facility to host the Read Southall Band, who drove all the way from Oklahoma to play for the Smokin’ Hog event. “It was a great show with over 500 people in attendance,” said Woodrow. In the 25-year history of the event, even with the challenging weather, this year was the largest and most successful Smokin’ Hog to date. The Chapter was able to raise over $15,100 for the local community. “None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, the community, and our alumni,” said Woodrow. The chapter is extremely thankful for the Western Illinois community support.
ALPHA PI
Arizona
KAPPA
Nebraska
A is for Apples
Professional Development Industry Tours
Academics and service are top priorities for Kappa Chapter at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
During the fall 2017 semester, Alpha Pi Chapter at the University of Arizona held their annual Professional Development Industry tours. The purpose of this tour is to grow and network with agriculturalists and Alpha Gamma Rho alumni across the state of Arizona and provides brothers with a chance to experience different sides of agriculture that are local to Arizona. “Every year we try to cover a different aspect of Arizona agriculture,” said Charlie Ferini, VNR of Alumni Relations. “The best way we found to achieve this was by splitting Arizona up into 3 regions, southern, central and northern.” The 2017 tour was held over the weekend of November 3-5, 2017, in the southern region of Arizona where brothers had the opportunity to see a 75-year-old pecan grove. During the grove tour, Brothers were able to see the stages from ground preparation, planting, irrigating and harvesting to processing and distribution. “Much to our surprise our tour guide, Rich Walden, was an alumnus from Rho Chapter at Colorado State University,” said Ferini, “we were able to network and make that brotherly connection that Alpha Gamma Rho shares nationwide.” The Chapter also had the opportunity to visit two Alpha Pi alumni, Jared Biciolis and Richard McPherson, who both currently serve as agricultural educators in Douglas and Rio Rico, Arizona. The alumni were able to show the collegiate members their high school facilities, outline their day-today tasks as educators, and allow them to participate in a Joint Technical Education District meeting. The tours included other agricultural education facilities across southern Arizona, large and small cattle operations in Nogales, and expansive copper mines in Bisbee. “Alpha Pi’s Professional Development tours are something we are proud to put on yearly as a way to grow professional and network with extensive alumni base from across the country,” said Ferini, “We would encourage all chapters should find a way to incorporate this into their yearly schedule.
After many years helping with the event, the Chapter has developed a personal connection with the CEO of the Richard P. Kimmel & Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation, Ernie Weyeneth. After completing the weekend of volunteer service, Kappa Chapter is presented a grant from Ernie and the Kimmel Orchard to put towards the Chapter house improvements. This year, the Chapter voted to buy new furniture for their study room and make the appropriate renovations to continue academic growth. After receiving funding from the Kimmel Orchard, the Kappa Foundation Board, and Mom’s Club, the Chapter completed over $16,000 worth of renovations over fall break. Renovations included new booths and chairs to improve working environments. The Chapter also made future plans to continue adding new features to the study room including additional whiteboards and soundproofing.
For over 10 years, Kappa Chapter Brothers have volunteered at the Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard during the historical Applejack Festival in Nebraska City. The annual event supports the Nebraska City community and attracts over 60,000 people to partake in orchard tours, apple picking, youth activities, and more. In September 2017, Kappa Chapter had around 60 Brothers volunteer for the weekend event.
“We have seen more productive members spending greater time in the study room and, as a result, a better Chapter GPA,” said Eric Leisy, Noble Ruler for the Chapter, “we are thrilled to see the improvements and look forward to continue improving members’ productivity and academics.”
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Field Notes ETA CHAPTER
Iowa State
BETA
Cutting the Ribbon In February 2017, Eta Chapter at Iowa State University celebrated the long-awaited completion of their house expansion project, the Second Century Addition Campaign. The four million-dollar expansion provided Eta Chapter collegiate Brothers with a large amount of new living space and several great environments for scholastic endeavors. The project included the construction of a formal board room, a Chapter event room, a refurbished formal living room, enhanced storage, an elevator for handicap accessibility and three new living spaces for members. The official groundbreaking for the expansion was held at the Eta house on March 31st, 2017. The event hosted undergraduate and alumni Brothers and featured keynote addresses from alumnus initiate member, the Iowa State University President, Steven Leath, and ISU’s Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Dr. Wendy Wintersteen. Over the summer, impressive progress was made, yet there was still more to do when members returned in the fall. During the first few weeks of the fall 2017 semester, the Chapter had access to roughly half the house, but gradually received segments until November. For nearly two months, Eta Chapter was without access to a dining room and ate meals in our main hallway.
The Ohio State
On February 10, Eta Chapter held their Founder’s Day Celebration and unveiled the new addition to all alumni in attendance and several Iowa State faculty members. Newly-elected Iowa State University President, Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, Associate Dean of Global Agriculture Programs, David Acker, North Central AGR Regional Vice President, Dan Johnson, and Alumni Board members Ryan Kruger and Mike Nissly were among those that spoke during the ribbon cutting ceremony. The Second Century Addition Campaign is the biggest investment in the history of Eta Chapter, with over 350 Eta alumni who have donated. “When you take a step back and look at the investment we are making, it continues to solidify the core of AGR and our focus to Make Better Men,” said Eta’s Alumni Board President, Ryan Kruger, during the Founder’s Day ceremony. “As proud alumni, we take great pride in our facilities, and as we finish this project it’s another step forward in the future of AGR.” “We are extremely grateful for the gift that our alumni have provided, and it is evident that this experience has allowed us to grow a stronger bond together as Brothers,” said Gavin Meyer, VNR of Alumni Relations for Eta Chapter.
EPSILON
Cattle Show for Cancer Research
The men of Beta Chapter at The Ohio State University hosted their biggest ever AGR Holiday Classic cattle show on December 9-10, 2017. This annual steer and heifer show spans over two days, each with two competitive rings and two jackpots. Every year, Brothers take advantage of this opportunity to practice networking skills by building relationships with new sponsors and advertisers. The 2017 AGR Holiday Classic had over 600 head of cattle in attendance from all corners of Ohio as well as surrounding states. This large attendance allowed the Chapter to donate $10,000 to Nationwide Children’s Hospital through BuckeyeThon, the largest, student-run philanthropy at The Ohio State. “The men of Beta Chapter hope to continue growing the AGR Holiday Classic in cattle numbers as well as exhibitors and sponsors to be able to donate more to children’s cancer research and other worthy causes,” said Nathan Snavely, Finance Chair of Beta Chapter.
North Dakota State
Mom for Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at North Dakota State University brought back a long lost tradition by hiring a Housemother in the fall 2017 semester. “We are very excited to have Mom Cheryl fulfilling this role in our family,” said Will Schroeder, Noble Ruler for the Chapter, “The value she brings to the chapter is unbelievable.” Epsilon Chapter listed some of their 30 SICKLE & SHEAF
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favorite things Mom Cheryl does including giving advice, teaching proper etiquette around women and at the dinner table, and helping set up activities. The Brothers are grateful for her time and guidance. As Epsilon Chapter begins another semester with a Housemother, they feel confident they’ve made a decision that will have a positive impact now and for future brothers at North Dakota State.
Field Notes CHI CHAPTER
Cal Poly State
Alpha Gamma Rhodeo Chi Chapter at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, California held their Alpha Gamma Rhodeo philanthropy event on Saturday, October 21, 2017. Each year, sorority women on Cal Poly’s campus look forward to competing in Alpha Gamma Rhodeo, which features fun activities like mechanical bull riding, barrel racing, roping, pie eating, and water balloon tossing. The day also included a dunk tank, where attendees could attempt to hit a target and dunk an Alpha Gamma Rho Brother into a tank of water. Throughout the day, teams of six participants from each sorority compete in the different events. The team that wins overall is crowned and received custom belt buckles as their prize. Sororities donate in order to participate and the Chapter also brought in a taco cart from a local business and held a raffle with a variety of different donated items to raise money. Proceeds from Alpha Gamma Rhodeo benefit Along Comes Hope, a local San Luis Obispo foundation supporting children with cancer through financial and emotional support. Jenny Mulks Wieneke, the CEO of Along Comes Hope, attended the event to raise more awareness for the foundation and thank the Chapter for their support. “Jenny came and spoke to our Chapter before and after the event,” said Jack Hofstetter, VNR of Membership Development for Chi Chapter, “we are hoping to further our relationship with her foundation in the coming years.” Through donations from the competing sororities, a ticket raffle with donated items from brothers and local businesses, and Chi Chapter Brothers raising awareness, a total of $4,136.29 was raised for Along Comes Hope.
ALPHA GAMMA
Florida
Bull Riding for Winn Dixie In November 2017, the Alpha
Just before Thanksgiving, the
Gamma Chapter at the University
majority of the chapter went over to
of Florida hosted their annual
the Winn-Dixie Hope Lodge to present
“Buck-Off” philanthropy event. Each
the check, serve a thanksgiving
year, Alpha Gamma Chapter holds
dinner, and eat with the cancer
a bull riding competition to raise
patients. “Getting to hear from the
money for the Winn-Dixie Hope Lodge patients is not only rewarding for us, in Gainesville, Florida. The Winn
but also seemed to give the residents
Dixie Hope Lodge is a temporary free
of the Hope Lodge an escape from the
housing facility for cancer patients
stress of going through treatment,”
receiving treatment at University of
said Preston.
Florida Health Shands Hospital.
The 2017 Buck-Off event raised over
The event included a mechanical bull $17,000, which was $7,000 over the riding competition where numerous
previous year.
teams paid to participate. “The team
“Getting to hear from the patients is not only rewarding for ride time won the competition,” said Walter Preston, “that’s the fun part!” us, but also seemed to give the The majority of the money raised was residents of the Hope Lodge an from brothers venturing into the local escape from the stress of going community to raise awareness about through treatment,” the Winn-Dixie Hope Lodge patients said Preston. that had the longest cumulative
and their Buck-Off competition.
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Field Notes ALPHA RHO
Vermont
Pasta for the People Over the weekend of February 9-11, 2017, the Brothers of the Alpha Rho Chapter at the University of Vermont hosted two pasta dinners to benefit their local community. One charity that benefitted from the carb-filled weekend was the Cochrans Ski Area, a non-profit ski area in Richmond, VA that is dedicated to providing area youth and families with affordable skiing and snowboarding. Conchran’s Ski Area hosts a weekly pasta dinner, in which the Alpha Gamma Rho Brothers took over. On Friday evening, the men from Alpha Rho Chapter served almost 100 people with salad, pasta and cookies, with all of the sales from the dinner directly benefiting the ski area. “The boys were proud to play a part in this great event and to continue Alpha Rho’s strong history with this little ski area that has a HUGE reputation,” said Noble Ruler Josh Lagerquist. “Not only has co-owner Barbara Cochran been a past Olympic medal winner, but Ryan Cochran-Siegle recently competed in the 2018 Olympics for the United States in the Giant Slalom, Super-G, Downhill and Alpine Combined,” Lagerquist said. The second dinner took place on Sunday, February 11, and benefitted the Children’s Miracle Network of the Larner Hospital on the University of Vermont campus. Alpha Rho partnered with the UVM RALLYTHON organization to make this event possible. The event was held at Alpha Rho’s chapter house where Brothers hosted and fed approximately 150 dinner guests. In total the AGR RALLYTHON team raised over $600, which was donated to the Children’s Miracle Network, aiding children in their fight with childhood cancer. “The brothers were very proud of how successful both events were,” said Lagerquist, “the commitment to service, teamwork and the making of better men that the brothers exhibited is what allowed this weekend of service to be the success it was.”
RHO CHAPTER
Colorado State
Painting the A
In the year of 1924, “The Big A” was whitewashed just below the Horsetooth Rock in Fort Collins, Colorado in support of the Colorado A&M Aggies, now known as Colorado State University (CSU) Rams. Every fall semester, Rho Chapter at CSU is one of the leading forces for painting the historic A. Brothers are responsible for picking up the paint, paint sprayer, and all other supplies needed to re-paint The Big A. Starting on Friday evening, collegiate Brothers, along with the Colorado State football players, take the painting supplies up the trail to the top of the A. It is a tradition that some of the AGR Brothers camp next to The Big A to guard the supplies. Bright and early Saturday morning, the Brothers of Rho Chapter gather at the top of the A and distribute supplies and across the painted land. Around ten in the morning, other students, alumni, and CSU staff members join the AGR brothers and begin the painting process of a fresh white coat of paint for the year. By the afternoon, the A is back to its former glory and Brothers assist in packing the supplies and transporting it back down the hill. As part of the painting crew, Rho Chapter Brothers have an opportunity to interact with CSU alumni, staff, athletes and other students outside of the College of Agricultural Sciences.
“Not only are brothers able to bond with new people, but painting the A serves as a brotherhood event for the beginning of the fall semester,” said Wesley Woolery, VNR of Alumni Relations for the Chapter. The CSU “A for Aggies” can be seen from the city of Fort Collins, where CSU is located, all the way out to I-25, about 10 miles out of the city.
ALPHA IOTA Arkansas
Tee Off for Texas Alpha Iota Chapter at the University of Arkansas held their annual fall philanthrophy Golf Tournament on October 21, 2017. Historically, the AGR Golf Classic benefits Farmer Veteran Coalition, however, the 2017 event was different. “With all the destructive storms that hit Texas this year, our brothers wanted to help those in need that lost their homes,” said Austin Baker, VNR of Alumni Relations for the Chapter. There were multiple teams of collegiate members, alumni, family and friends that
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came for a fun day of golf and to support Hurricane Harvey victims. “It was a blast to see so many people come out and participate for a great cause,” said Baker. Each team paid to participate and the Chapter held a raffle during the tournament to further their fundraising. Brothers raffled a rifle, a yeti cooler, and a trip to a vacation house in Florida. Altogether, the AGR Golf Classic rose over $2,000 for the families in Texas who were affected by the hurricanes in late August.
Field Notes ALPHA GAMMA RHO
Arkansas Tech Colony
Freezin’ for a Reason BETA ETA
Virginia Tech
Pickin’ Pumpkins Each fall, Beta Eta Chapter at Virginia Tech University heads to the pumpkin fields in western Virginia to pick pumpkins. Dan Brann, a close friend of the AGR Chapter, owns a pumpkin farm in Ringer, Virginia, a little over 10 miles from the Virginia Tech campus. Brann asked for the Brothers’ help in picking pumpkins each fall and it has become an event that all Brothers look forward to. “Whenever there comes an opportunity for us to name goals for the week, we always manage to make ‘pick a lot of pumpkins’ a top goal to achieve,” said Coleman Smith, a new member of Beta Eta Chapter. From September to late October, the pumpkins are picked by Brothers and loaded onto trailers where they are taken across the commonwealth to be distributed to Walmarts for the fall season. “Pumpkin picking is something we take pride in at the Beta Eta chapter and it is something we plan on continuing to do in the many upcoming years,” said Smith, “Events like this help us create an unbreakable bond between one another as well as give back to the community,” said Coleman Smith, a member of the Chapter. Beta Eta Chapter plans to carry on the pumpkin picking tradition to continue to represent themselves as quality men of agriculture and spend more time building their brotherly bond.
On Saturday, February 3 the Alpha Gamma Rho Colony at Arkansas Tech University participated in the Polar Plunge, a philanthropy event that involves plunging into ice-cold water to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics. To participate in the event, participant’s individually raise money to be sponsored to make the plunge. All the proceeds go to help fund the Pope County Special Olympics in Arkansas. The Polar Plunge was originally started at Arkansas Tech University by the Agriculture Department to raise money for the Special Olympics. The AGR colony saw this as a great opportunity to support the Special Olympics and continue to be involved within the Agriculture Department. Brothers promoted the event in front of the Arkansas Tech student union by tabling and handing out buttons to spread awareness and collect donations. Altogether, the AGR colony raised over $1,300 of the total $2,700 raised by all Agriculture Department clubs. The colony raised the most out of all department clubs and other organizations for the event. After fundraising, Brothers Daniel Henthorn, Chase Williams, Aaron Morris, Tyler Peters, Ben Holland, and Seth Harrison took the plunge into the ice-cold waters of Lake Dardanelle, a major reservoir on the Arkansas River. Dr. Malcolm Rainey, Adviser for the AGR colony, even showed up to take the plunge into the freezing lake.
ALPHA PSI
Wisconsin-River Falls
Pink with Purpose Alpha Psi Chapter at the
University of Wisconsin-River Falls celebrated the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, by helping raise awareness and getting involved on campus. The Chapter designed pink AGR t-shirts for Brothers to wear on campus while they collected donations and sold pink lemonade. In just three short weeks, over 90% of the collegiate Chapter had the awareness t-shirts and were proudly wearing them to class. Throughout October, the Chapter was able to raise roughly $400 from selling pink lemonade, and another $600 from monetary donations. A $1,000 check was sent from the Chapter to the Breast Cancer Awareness and Research Facility at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. “The main purpose behind this fundraiser was to be more proactive on campus and within the community,” said Kyle Stuttgen, VNR of Membership Development for Alpha Psi Chapter. “My main hope is that this becomes a yearly tradition in the fall semester for breast cancer awareness month, hopefully with new and exciting ideas every year.”
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Field Notes
AGR Hosts BETA IOTA
Truman State University
BETA IOTA CHAPTER AT TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY
in Kirksville, Missouri hosted the 1st annual Adair County JAKES Day on September 30, 2017. JAKES Day is an educational event teaching hunter safety and outdoor skills to youth ages 5–17. JAKES stands for Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship. This event was a collaborative effort between Beta Iota Chapter of AGR, the National Wild Turkey Federation—Kirksville Ridge Runners chapter, and the Missouri Department of Conservation. The event took over eight months of planning and almost every Beta Iota Brother was involved with the big day in some way. From creating a Facebook page and flyers, to getting all children pre-registered and t-shirts designed, the chapter put many hours into JAKES Day. The Innaugural Adair County JAKES Day began with the most important lesson of outdoorsmen activities—safety. The opening session consisted of a safety talk by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Over 30 children and parents went through rotations of six different outdoor education stations including skeet shooting, archery, air rifle, still target, fishing, and a duck calling demonstration. Brothers volunteered for different tasks including leading groups of kids and their parents through the stations, cooking lunch, or instructing the youth at stations. The event concluded with a lunch which included attendance prizes for the young attendees.
“We want to make our positive mark on the Kirksville community and we proved this by holding JAKES Day and passing our skills as outdoorsmen to the next generation.” — BETA IOTA BROTHER CAMERAON SNYDER
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Many parents commented on how well-run and professional the event was. One mother posted her praise on the JAKES Day Facebook page, “JAKES Day was a well-organized, awesome experience for our little one! All of your staff were fabulous with the kids, and safety lessons were made a priority. We're looking forward to bringing both of our kids next year! THANK YOU to all of you and your sponsors!” The event gave Beta Iota a unique opportunity to pass on their love of the outdoors to the next generation of youth. The chapter also had a chance to interact with members of the Kirksville community
JAKES Day
and give them more information about the Fraternity. “JAKES Day really helped show the community what our chapter stands for,” said Beta Iota Brother Cameron Snyder, “we want to make our positive mark on the Kirksville community and we proved this by holding JAKES Day and passing our skills as outdoorsmen to the next generation.” The Chapter is already planning for the Second Annual JAKES Day for the fall of 2018. They hope to expand the amount of stations offered to include outdoor first-aid, trapping, and fly tying.
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The Last Pass
The Next 25 Years THE FRATERNITY REFLECTS ON THE SUCCESSES OF THE AGR BROTHERHOOD PROGRAM AND LOOKS FORWARD TO THE WORK BEING DONE TO ENSURE AGR CONTINUES "TO MAKE BETTER MEN.
FOR THE LAST 25 YEARS, THE BROTHERHOOD
the year for continuous education and engage-
Program has been a key cornerstone to Alpha
ment of all members. This can be on a broad range
Gamma Rho, and we celebrate the many success-
of relevant topics from professional and career
es it has brought the Fraternity. As Ted Priebe
development, risk management awareness,
referenced in the spring 2017 edition of the Sickle
financial management, brotherhood retreats,
& Sheaf, the task force appointed for the Brother-
and various others.
hood Program was challenged to further develop the program into a lifelong learning experience
The last, and biggest component to the project, is updating the Fraternity’s AGRconnect platform.
rather than a focus on new member education.
We have heard the suggestions and constructive
Through the work of the task force, many of our
criticisms from our members about the online ed-
chapters provided insight about how each chapter
ucational platform. While AGRconnect will remain
educates and keeps their members involved. This
intact, the look and feel of the site will be much
provided the startling discovery that, despite the
different. This is going to include revisions to our
Fraternity’s effort to educate all of its members
new member education course to allow for great-
about the Brotherhood Program, the program was
er independent learning, progress tracking for
being integrated at varying degrees. During the past summer, Alpha Gamma Rho
individual development, and making AGRconnect accessible via mobile devices. Members will also
sought outside assistance to continue the work
see a new version of the Golden Crescent being
the task force had begun and take the revisions
printed to match the content of the new modules.
and improvements to the Brotherhood Program to a new level. Through an extensive research and proposal deliberation, the Fraternity selected a joint proposal submitted by The Context Network and Vivayic, both companies who are familiar to agricultural industries, education through multiple avenues, and Alpha Gamma Rho. The project has developed into various deliverables where the member experience will have great-
Alpha Gamma Rho sought outside assistance to ... take the revisions and improvements to the Brotherhood Program to a new level.
er focus on continuous learning from the time they are initiated and beyond. The first is to focus more on brotherhood mentorship, with an emphasis on individual development. Based off a collegiate
Alpha Gamma Rho is appreciative of the hard work all of the team members from The Context
focus group, a list of 12 core competencies were
Network and Vivayic have done with the revisions
divided into four categories; mental, moral, social
to our Fraternity’s Brotherhood Program. All of
and physical. Members can personalize their mem-
the new revisions to the Brotherhood Program
bership development experience by honing in on
will be unveiled during the National Convention
a specific set of skills. The Big Brother, as a mentor,
this summer in New Orleans. We invite you to
will help their Little Brother on his journey by
share in and “Explore the Energy” around these
giving feedback, and constructive comments.
great enhancements to our Fraternity’s lifelong
The second area is to build out all chapter pro-
education program!
gramming guides chapters can use throughout 36 SICKLE & SHEAF
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Our Roots
Historical Items Over the years, AGR CEO Phil Josephson has been seen as a man open to progressive change. However, some things have remained the same—AGR’s Promise and Values, Phil’s love for golf, and a few items he has kept with him throughout his time as “Chief Farmhand” of Alpha Gamma Rho. THE AMERICAN FLAG PIN In 2001, Phil was on his way to an AGR strategic planning event when the attack of 9/11 occurred. While unable to fly home and spending several days in Chicago, he purchased an American Flag pin. Phil has worn this pin on his suit coats almost every working day since that day to show his unwavering support for his country. THE ERASER Phil has owned a single eraser in his lifetime. This rubber eraser has been with him since grade school in the late 1950s. Naturally, it has dwindled down to a nub after many years of revisions. Phil feels this item is a great visual reminder that mistakes will be made throughout your life and one should “embrace them, learn from them, fix what you can, and move along.”
Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity 10101 N. Ambassador Drive Kansas City, MO 64153-1366
“So many exciting, productive and good years.” — PHIL JOSEPHSON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 1975-2018