THE MAGAZINE OF ALPHA GAMMA RHO AGRICULTURAL FRATERNITY âž» FALL 2019
Ending the Stigma of Mental Health
In Earnest
Why I Give:
“I’m already seeing doors open.” FOUNDATION DONOR:
Michael Dowd
CHAPTER AND SCHOOL:
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State University
ANNUAL GIVING LEVEL:
1904 Society: Collegiate
“The little bit of money I chip in now can help someone hundreds of miles away who might be able to help me years from now.”
MICHAEL DOWD GREW UP IN SPRING HILL,
Alumni Relations. Despite still being in
Kansas, where he raised show pigs and
college, Michael is a donor to The Educa-
was involved in 4-H and FFA. But it’s
tional Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho.
poultry that’s become his true passion.
He sees it as an investment in his future.
“I got involved in poultry judging
“I’m only a sophomore and am already
through FFA and was fortunate enough
seeing doors opening because of Alpha
to land an internship at Tyson,” said
Gamma Rho,” said Dowd. “The little bit
Michael. “By the time I started attend-
of money I chip in now can help someone
ing industry conferences, I realized how
hundreds of miles away who might be
much growth potential the poultry field
able to help me years from now.”
has for my career, because it’s such a big industry.” He soon found that much of that industry included Alpha Gamma Rho alumni. “Especially in Kansas, there’s a really
Michael is still in the process of determining his career plans — graduate school in Poultry Science is currently high on his list of priorities. Whatever path he takes, he’s optimistic his
high proportion of AGRs in the agricul-
support of the Fraternity will continue
ture industry,” said Dowd. “ You meet
to pay dividends.
someone who’s an AGR and there’s just an instant, awesome connection.” Michael, a sophomore studying Ani-
“ You’re directly impacting the lives of agriculture’s future leaders,” said Dowd. “We are in a position to
mal Science at Kansas State University,
impact agriculture, and agriculture
serves as Alpha Zeta Chapter’s VNR -
impacts everyone.”
YOUR PURPOSEFUL MISSION
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
9 SPRING FALL
2015 2019
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Sickle & Sheaf FALL 2019 | VOLUME 107 | ISSUE 2
Published continuously since 1910 COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER & EDITOR
12
Shannon Kehoe ASSISTANT EDITOR
Matt Olson CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Departments AG RELE VANCE 2
News from the Home Office and the world of Greek-letter organizations THE PILL ARS
14
Rex Martin DESIGN & LAYOUT
17
2019 Leadership Conference Alpha Gamma Rho’s New Look and Feel Ending the Stigma of Mental Health
24
Awards, Scholarships, Foundation Donors, and more TR ANSITIONS 34
Features
Honoring those brothers who have departed
8 10
Q& AG R 35
General Counsel John Tarpley is Well-Prepared To Help AGR, Greek System Respond To Critical Issues THE L AST PASS
16
Grant Bargfrede, John Carruthers, Mike Kawleski, Loren Kruse, John Ruebush, L. Patrick Sheetz, Steven Wagoner, Jeremy Zweiacker, BUSINESS MANAGER
Take note of these four numbers THE HARVEST
32
Tria Designs, Inc. SUBMISSIONS FOR SICKLE & SHEAF
alphagammarho.org/share-your-news shannon@alphagammarho.org
Sickle & Sheaf (ISSN 8750-6866) is published two times a year (Fall and Spring) by Publications Office, 10101 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO. Members receive life subscriptions with payment of initiation fee. Non-Profit Standard postage paid at 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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Enjoying Tradition But Embracing Change FA L L 2019
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INVIZBK/ISTOCKPHOTO
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Striving Toward a More Safe and Healthy Living Environment
So, what exactly does this mean? Alcohol exceeding 15% alcohol by volume is not allowed…
NEW POLICY PROHIBITING ALCOHOL BEVERAGES EXCEEDING 15% HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED FOR ALL CHAPTERS August 2018 was a turning point as the
to alumni, undergraduates and invited
(NIC) adopted a resolution stating that
guests who are of legal drinking age.
“…every member organization shall have
Chapter events are still functioning as
a policy in place by September 1, 2019, that
usual as undergraduates have returned to
prohibits the presence of alcohol products
school, but with this policy, members are
above 15% alcohol by volume (A BV) in any
able to establish a safe and healthy envi-
chapter facility or at any chapter event,
ronment for brothers and their guests.
except when served by a licensed and insured third-party vendor.” The policy, which was adopted by the
2
alcohol at or on chapter premises or events
North-American Interfraternity Conference
At this point, the removal of >15% A BV for all chapters has been in place and enforced since the beginning of the school
AGR National Board of Directors on No-
year. Collegians have been functioning
vember 16, 2018, is meant to prohibit the
normally, but, with this policy, members
consumption of alcohol exceeding 15% A BV
are able to establish a safe and healthy
at Alpha Gamma R ho chapter facilities and
environment for brothers and
properties and to limit the consumption of
their guests.
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at any chapter facility or property, defined as any land and/or building whether rented, leased or owned by the local entity for the purpose of operating as a chapter facility…
To ensure a safe and healthy environment for brothers and their guests.
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Two AGRs Awarded NIC’s Undergraduate Award of Distinction The North-American Interfraternity Conference’s (NIC) Undergraduate Award of Distinction recognizes fraternity men who, throughout their collegiate experience, have found an outlet for development as both a leader and a better man. They are exemplary members of their chapters and serve their brothers, campuses and fraternity/sorority communities with humble confidence.
Corporate Partners AGR is committed to offering opportunities to connect for members and corporations in the dynamic global agriculture and food industries. Thank you to our Corporate Partners for support of our Purpose! ELITE
GOLD
Brandon Hanson,
Eta Chapter, Iowa State
Dustin Winston
Beta Phi Chapter, Idaho
Brandon Hanson has demonstrated a
Dustin Winston played an integral role in
level of commitment in the service of the
the adoption of Alpha Gamma Rho’s new
larger fraternity movement. As Vice Pres-
Collegiate Advisory Council (replacing
ident of Council Operations for the Iowa
the Undergraduate Director role), and
State University Interfraternity Council,
for his efforts, he was elected as the
Brandon was instrumental in the success
first chairman of the group. A thoughtful
of the Iowa State community as a pilot
innovator, he helped create a mentorship
campus for the NIC’s Enhanced Health
program within the University of Idaho’s
& Safety Standards. Brandon promoted
College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
innovative programming within his chap-
and also created a speakers’ program in
ter, such as its first women’s appreciation
his chapter to facilitate brothers’ profes-
dinner and the ISU 4U initiative where
sional and personal development “Dustin
agriculture students teach elementary
is the kind of student leader who has
schoolers in urban areas about food
made an impact not only in his own Fra-
production. He served as a peer mentor
ternity, but also the campus community,”
on campus. With a triple major, Brandon
one nominator said. “Through his many
maintained an impressive 3.98 GPA. He
opportunities for leadership on and off
earned top honors within the Fraternity
campus, Dustin exemplifies what it means
as well as the university for his leadership. “Brandon always represents a positive
Bader Rutter SPONSOR
PIC Want to see your company’s logo added to our list? Visit alphagammarho.org/corporatepartners for information on how to become a Corporate Partner.
FIND US. FRIEND US. FOLLOW US.
to be a person of character and integrity,
@alphagammarhohq
engaging in all of these varied activities
@alphagammarho
image in all he says and does, and he
while maintaining an outstanding 3.93
holds his fellow brothers to the same high
GPA.” He is a strong advocate for the fra-
standards,” a nominator wrote.
ternity/sorority experience, volunteering in a non-officer role with the Interfraternity Council and being a stalwart attendee of all community events.
SILVER
Alpha Gamma Rho: Social/ Professional Ag, Food, Fiber, & Life Sci. Fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity
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Students Complete Internships in Washington, D.C. with Help from Supporters Epsilon alumnus and former Grand President, Allan Johnson and wife, Sara Wyant, have a long history of working in Washington, D.C. covering agriculture and rural policy issues impacting farmers and rural citizens. Allan served as Deputy Under Secretary USDA Rural Development in the George W. Bush Administration. Sara is the owner of Agri-Pulse Communications whose company covers ag and rural policy issues on a daily basis.
Both Allan and Sara understand the increased impact policymakers have on a farmers and agribusiness firm’s ability to do business through legislation, but also increased regulations. It is imperative farmers and agribusiness executives understand how Washington works and participate in the process to ensure Congress and Government Officials understand the implications of their actions. Even if an AGR brother decides to return to the farm, they believe they need to stay involved and better understand how agriculture policy is developed and implemented. 4
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Identifying this need for educating AGR collegians about agriculture policy led to the development of the Agriculture and Rural Policy Internship. This past summer. The program’s first interns, Jake Hlas and Jacob Stukenberg went out to Washington, D.C. to gain experience from those who have spent years dedicating time to agricultural policy in our nation’s capital. Through their testimonials, both brothers shared the impact their internships had on them. They grew as professionals and witnessed first-hand how expansive the AGR network is and can be to those working in ag policy. “We decided to invest in educating collegiate members about the legislative and regulatory process. We worked with The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho to develop an internship program that would allow two AGR Brothers to spend their summer working in Washington, D.C.”
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“
Education and Promotion Veteran Farmers and Ranchers.
Pushing me every day to be the best version of myself.
After having an internship last summer at National Farmers Union, I caught the “DC Bug” and decided my only way to return there after graduation in December 2019 was to earn another internship in the city. Learning about the scholarship AGR offered, I applied, and I was thrilled to be selected as a recipient of this award, giving me an opportunity to return.
Growing up in an Iowa town as small as mine, I would have never believed I would be presented with an opportunity to move across the country to work in one of the most historically significant cities in the world. A few months have passed, and I still find it challenging to put into words my internship experience from this summer. From May until late August, I interned at the United States Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. where I was placed in the Office of Secretary Perdue. My everyday duties included working with the 2018 Farm Bill and a few of the programs implemented by this. The experience gave me an in depth look at agriculture from a policy and governmental level. On top of my experience at USDA, I was able to network with countless individuals involved in the agricultural industry living within DC. This added to the overall growth I experienced while in our Nation’s Capital. DC is the hub for governmental agriculture and with this comes an impressive talent pool of interns who pushed me every day to be the best version of myself. I want to thank Alpha Gamma Rho for helping make this dream a possibility with the Agriculture and Rural Policy Program!
The USDA office I worked in this summer was the Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), an arm of the Office of the Secretary. OPPE exists to ensure everyone, including socially disadvantaged groups such as racial minorities, ethnic minorities, women, and veteran farmers/ranchers in the U.S., have access to proper funding opportunities. One of the main initiatives of the office I worked extensively on was the 2501 Grant Program, a $16 million dollar grant program that allows organizations, private or public, to apply for funding for education and promotion of socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers. Such projects that have been funded in the past by the 2501 Grant include workshops hosted at universities to train farmers on conservation planning, education hosted by organizations on record keeping and estate planning, refugee farming programs, and many more amazing initiatives. I also worked closely with the Strategic Initiatives department on different projects regarding rural prosperity and funding opportunities for communities who want to stimulate community and economic revitalization. —J acob Stukenberg, Wisconsin-Platteville
— Jake Hlas, Iowa State
I worked extensively on the 2501 Grant Program, a $16 million dollar grant program that organizations, private or public, can apply for funding for education and promotion of socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers. — Jacob Stukenberg
The experience gave me an in depth look at agriculture from a policy and governmental level. — Jake Hlas
”
LEARN MORE If you are interested in applying for the Agriculture and Rural Policy Internship, please visit alphagammarho.org/professional-opportunities for more information and the application. Open until Dec. 31.
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Beta Sigma Chapter Gets a Facelift
The house that’s been home to Alpha Gamma Rho at Tarleton State University for more than two decades was in need of an update. Giving a facelift to a house more than 74 years old presents some challenges of its own. The good news? The chapter’s alumni association had paid off the mortgage in 2018, which paved the way to reinvest in the facility and perform a major remodel. To that end, the alumni association appointed a housing advisory committee to work with the chapter members to come up with the scope of work, which required several stages of refinement due to the age of the house. Based on that scope of work, a general contractor was selected, and work commenced over the summer. It was extensive! “Everywhere there was sheetrock or any surface that was removable, it was removed,” said Beta Sigma Chapter Adviser, Wayne Davenport. The changes were far more than cosmetic, however. Much of the renovation centered around making the chapter house safer and more efficient. Those upgrades included: Updated wiring
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All-new plumbing A fire suppression system, hardwired smoke detectors and emergency lighting Energy-efficient windows throughout the house Reconfigured bathrooms A new kitchen including individual cabinet space for each brother living in the house New fence and carports The original hardwood floors were resurfaced and stained. Finally, a fresh coat of paint — inside and out — completed the renovation in time for the 2019 fall semester, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 5.
The impact of the renovation on the chapter, and its ability to attract new members, is already evident. “Because of the renovation, we have seen more interest in AGR and are sure that will translate in positive recruitment numbers and reengaged allumni,” said Davenport. Beta Sigma brothers: If you’re capable of donating any additional funds to offset the costs of the new Beta Sigma Chapter house, please contact John Hagaman at Hagaman525@ hotmail.com or 972- 835- 0083
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Omicron’s New House: “A Cooperative Effort” WHEN OMICRON CHAPTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY MOVED INTO THEIR NEW 19,600 SQUARE-FOOT HOUSE THIS FALL, IT WAS THE END OF A LONG — AND OFTEN BUMPY — ROAD. “Getting here has been quite the roller coaster ride,” said Chapter Adviser Bill Renner. Omicron Chapter had been in the same
versity on — you guessed it — the site of the AGR house. Working with the University (which pledged $1 million toward a new site and
most attended in the chapter’s 99-year history. It was the culmination of a process that stood as a true testament to the power of collaboration.
house since the early ‘60s — generations
provided fundraising support), the chap-
knew and loved “700 Woodland Avenue.”
ter went on a capital campaign to build
between the University, the chapter,
The house sat on land that had been
a house at a new location in the heart of
our alumni, the AGR Home Office —
leased to the chapter in perpetuity by
fraternity row. Alumni stepped up in a big
everyone involved came together to
the University.
way, pledging over $2.73 million.
make this happen,” said True.
But, when a major donor came along and offered to build a new library adjacent to the house, things changed. “The donor stipulated a certain amount of green space would surround the library,” said Renner. “Our house was within that perimeter.” Working with the University, the chap-
Then, another bump in the road. “There was so much construction taking place in the region, simply finding available contractors was a huge challenge,” said Alumni Board Member Jim True. “The first bid we received was $8 million… way beyond our budget.” But eventually, contractors were
ter found an existing fraternity house that
secured and construction began on the
met their needs, and they moved in.
new home for Omicron Chapter.
But then, another major donor offered to fund a new honors dorm for the Uni-
This year’s Founders’ Day, which also served as the ribbon cutting, was the
“It really was a cooperative effort
And the road to Omicron Chapter’s new home, with more than a few twists and turns, was ultimately worth the effort. “We love it here,” said Noble Ruler Dagan Montgomery. “It already feels like home.”
Omicron Brothers: If you’re capable of donating any additional funds to help offset the costs of the new Omicron Chpater house, please contact Glenn Stith at glennallenstith@ aol.com or 314 - 609- 0972. FA L L 2019
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2019 Leadership Conference ALPHA GAMMA RHO NATIONAL LEADERS
TRANSFORMING: FRATERNITY
including Home Office staff, Regional
In breakout sessions, attendees had the
Vice Presidents, National Board Directors,
option to attend two of four breakout
Collegiate Advisory Council Members and
sessions tailored toward education in a
more, traveled to Kansas City, Missouri
variety of aspects of the Fraternity. Repre-
for AGR’s Leadership Conference August
sentatives from OmegaFi, North American
2-4. The theme of the 2019 Leadership
Interfraternity Conference, Pennington &
Conference was “TRANSFORM,” empha-
Co. and Phired Up provided insight into the
sizing the progression of the Fraternity
ways their companies and organizations
as it continues to provide brothers with
can TRANSFORM Alpha Gamma Rho’s
superior lifelong personal development
strength and knowledge in finances, re-
and professional success.
cruitment and in the future of fraternities.
WHAT IS THE AGR LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE?
TRANSFORMING: HISTORY Alpha Gamma Rho hosted its closing
Every other year, between years of Alpha
reception and dinner at the World War
Gamma Rho’s biennial National Conven-
I Museum and Memorial. The Museum’s
tion, a Leadership Conference is held for AGR’s National Leaders to gather and discuss the future of the Fraternity. The 2019 Leadership Conference began Friday August 2 with an opening session and opening ceremonies, followed by an introduction to the weekend by AGR CEO, Rex Martin. The meeting quickly moved into its theme of TRANSFORM as the team from Johnny Lightning Strikes Again (JLSA) unveiled Alpha Gamma Rho’s new brand (Read more on pages 10-11).
TRANSFORMING: RECRUITMENT The following day, Leaders broke into groups and strategized how to effectively recruit in a non-traditional way. Efforts centered around AGR’s recruitment efforts and the different ways our members are recruiting a variety of men across the country as well as brainstorming how to transform recruitment efforts to grow the share of agricultural students that are members of Alpha Gamma Rho. 8
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Above: NIC CEO, Jud Horras presented Brandon Hanson with his Undergraduate Award of Distinction and provided insight to the fraternity experience during one of the breakout sessions.
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Main Gallery shares a comprehensive history of the First World War through original artifacts and documents, recreated trenches, interactive exhibits and a variety of videos. National Leaders and their guests had the opportunity to walk through the museum and experience a transformative moment in American
Above: Breakout groups enabled attendees to collaborate and consider the path forward for Alpha Gamma Rho. Left: Owner and Director of Accounts of JLSA, David Cecil, began the presentation of the new brand to National Leaders on Friday with an overview of the project.
history through the collective gallery. Visitors were also able to travel to the top of the Liberty Memorial for a moving sunset view of the Kansas City area.
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At right: with crisper lines, the AGR Brand stands out with a steadfast boldness, much like our members.
Alpha Gamma Rho’s New Look and Feel
HONESTY, GOOD, UNSELFISHNESS, HARDWORKING, earnest and proud. These are the attributes Alpha Gamma Rho was founded on in 1904. Since its beginning, AGR has elevated the social, physical, spiritual, academic and professional status of thousands of young men. The Fraternity has grown, but it has maintained the integrity of its brotherhood. After ten years, the question of where AGR fell with its image came forward: is AGR in line with other fraternities in terms of branding? Does the AGR brand represent its members? Is it modern? These questions among others started the thought process for a rebrand.
THE NEW GOLD LOGO UTILIZES THE ORIGINAL GOLD COLOR AND COAT OF ARMS FOR A CLASSIC LOOK FILLED WITH TRADITION, BUT IN A FRESH, DYNAMIC WAY.
In fall 2018, Alpha Gamma Rho hired Johnny Lightning Strikes Again (JLSA), a Kansas City based advertising agency and marketing company to review the overall AGR identity and begin the construction of a new look for the Fraternity. Immersing themselves into the history and ideals of the Fraternity, JLSA grew a vision for AGR. Through hours of revision, focus groups and continued collaboration with the Home Office, the new look for Alpha Gamma Rho came to life. The Key Copy leads the way for how Alpha Gamma Rho is positioned in the Greek life experience as well
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The Primary Logo for the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho.
BETA NU TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
Chapter specific logos can be found within your respective chapter’s Toolboxes on AGRconnect.
Chapters may use the Stamp logo for their social media outlets.
The new, mobile-friendly website allows users to access it from any device.
An advanced color palette has been added to allow for a more dynamic feel across all digital and print materials.
as in the professional workplace. It is an
and through them a broader and better
mobile-friendly website allows users to
expression of its men and how the organi-
agriculture.” Through testimonial inter-
access it from any device. Through the
zation creates a legacy its founders would
views, one member described AGR as
development of the website, the question
be proud of. As S.K. Bjoronson (Epsilon
having, “an intangible brotherhood that’s
was constantly “What is easiest for our
Chapter, North Dakota State) said, “I want
really hard to beat anywhere else.”
members?” And “How can we ensure
her men to be leaders of the future, not
Accompanying the rebrand, a few
members will be able to find the informa-
because they are my Fraternity Broth-
retouches were done to the Coat of Arms
tion they need?” AlphaGammaRho.org
ers, but because I believe them to be the
to restore it to emulate its original look
allows users to easily navigate through
strongest of character and the most hon-
from 1916, when the Coat of Arms was
the website in an intuitive way with direct
orable and resolute of the times. I want
approved by the National Convention.
consideration to our audiences. The over-
each of them, by their deeds and actions,
With crisper lines, the Coat of Arms
all look and feel of the website directly
to justify the existence
stands out with a steadfast boldness,
reflect how we are Making Better Men.
of Alpha Gamma Rho.”
much like our members.
The brand is meant to accentuate what
An advanced color palette has been
With an unveiling in August 2019, Alpha Gamma Rho, the Brotherhood of Agricul-
makes our Fraternity the only one of its
added to allow for a more dynamic feel
ture came to fruition for members to take
kind. It creates a common language for
across all digital and print materials.
advantage of on their chapter websites,
each of its members to identify with. The
Consistent with the original green and
social media pages and additional ma-
new gold logo utilizes the original gold
gold, the addition of eight variations
terials. We encourage everyone to view
color and Coat of Arms for a classic look
of colors provides more options for
the Branding and Style Guide available
filled with tradition, but in a fresh, dynam-
members when designing recruitment
on AGRconnect as they integrate the new
ic way. “The Brotherhood of Agriculture
materials and websites.
brand into their everyday operations.
(since 1904),” touches on the rich history
The new color palette, logo and addi-
AGR stands for and positions the Frater-
tional branding elements come to life at
nity for a future of "Making Better Men,
the new AlphaGammaRho.org. The new,
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Milwaukee Welcomes Alpha Gamma Rho to
VISITMILWAUKEE
“The Other Coast”
The spouse program will include a trip to the Milwaukee Art Museum with its impressive architecture and large collection of art pieces.
2020 National Convention / July 22-24, 2020 / Hilton Milwaukee City Center / Milwaukee, WI
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By Mike Kawleski, Chair, 2020 AGR Convention Advisory Team THE THREE AGR CHAPTERS IN
Wisconsin would like to invite AGR brothers, spouses and supporters to join us at the 2020 Alpha Gamma Rho National Convention! It takes place next July 22-24, 2020 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Before I tell you more, let me ask a question: What do you know about Milwaukee or Wisconsin? The typical answers given include “cheese,” “beer”, and “sausage.”
Well, it’s true, the state does have a reputation for great cheese. Of course, it’s brewing heritage makes it easy to find a cold beer to wash down that cheese. And the number of Wisconsinites with ancestors from Germany, Poland, Belgium and other European countries makes it easy to find all kinds of tasty sausage.
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VISITMILWAUKEE
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PLENTY TO SEE AND DO IN MILWAUKEE But Milwaukee has much more to offer AGR brothers visiting in 2020. The origin of the city’s name is the phrase “gathering place by the waters” — and so we will! The city was founded on three rivers — Milwaukee, Menominee and Kinnickinnick — and Lake Michigan to the east is part of what’s called “The Other Coast.”
The Milwaukee River offers brothers and spouses the opportunity to kayak, or they can stroll beside it on the Riverwalk that passes unique shops and other sites. And, believe it or not, Lake Michigan is known as a good spot for surfing, if you’re so inclined, although the experts say the waves are best in the winter! There are of plenty other things to see and do, such as the Milwaukee County Zoo, which has about 3,300 animals housed in a wooded, parklike 190-acre site. If you have the “bucket list” goal of visiting all the Major
League Baseball parks, you can check off another with a game at Miller Park, home of the Milwaukee Brewers. Milwaukee is also known as the “City of Festivals” because these events happen year-round. If you plan to arrive early for the National Convention, there’s the Festa Italiana the weekend before the convention and the German Fest the weekend after the convention. LOTS OF NEARBY ATTRACTIONS If you’re a golfer, you might be interested in visiting some of the fantastic golf courses in and nearby Milwaukee. Two world-famous ones within an hour’s drive are Black Wolf Run in Kohler and Whistling Straits in Sheboygan. This was the site of both the men’s and women’s U.S Open and will host the Ryder Cup next year.
Since Wisconsin is a highly agricultural state, there are plenty of ag-related companies in Wisconsin who would be glad to host AGR brothers for tours.
One example is Case IH, which has a manufacturing plant in Racine, just south of Milwaukee. And even smaller towns can have several ag-related sites. For example, Fort Atkinson (about an hour west of Milwaukee) is the home of at least three. One is the National Dairy Shrine Museum, celebrating the history of the U.S. dairy industry. Another is Hoard’s Dairyman, a pioneer in the field of agricultural publications. Some of you may have participated in the Hoard’s dairy cattle judging contest in your 4-H club, FFA chapter, college class or AGR chapter. And Fort Atkinson is also the headquarters of Nasco International, the supplier of science-related educational products for teachers and ag-related products for farmers and ranchers.
2020 National Convention / July 22-24, 2020 / Hilton Milwaukee City Center / Milwaukee, WI 14
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WELLESENTERPRISES/ISTOCKPHOTO
Above: During the Convention, one of the evening events will be held at the Harley Davidson Museum. Right: The Convention program will include a trip to the Milwaukee Public Museum with over 4 million artifacts spread throughout 160,000 square feet of display space.
AGRelevance PLAN FOR A MEMORABLE CONVENTION
VISITMILWAUKEE
As you can tell, Milwaukee and the surrounding area have a lot to offer — and I haven’t even covered the activities planned at our Convention yet! The Convention will be hosted in the Hilton Milwaukee City Center, which is in a prime downtown location. This hotel opened its doors in 1928, in the era of Prohibition and Al Capone, and is known for its Art Deco style. When it opened, it was the tallest hotel in the state.
Milwaukee is the home of Harley Davidson, world-famous maker of motorcycles. One of our evening functions will be held at the Harley Davidson Museum, which has more than 450 motorcycles and related artifacts on a 20-acre site. Whether you are an “Easy Rider” or were “Born to Be Wild,” you’ll find plenty of fun at this museum. Another function will be hosted by the Milwaukee Public Museum. This grew from humble
beginnings in 1882 to a facility with over 4 million artifacts spread throughout 160,000 square feet of display space. You’ll see items ranging from a life-size replica of the Streets of Old Milwaukee to the largest-known dinosaur skull. SPOUSE PROGRAM WILL BE FANTASTIC The Spouse Program should not be missed either. One stop will be the Milwaukee Art Museum located on the shore of Lake Michigan. It’s famous for its moving hydraulic “wings,” designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. Some people also say this reminds them of the sailboats often seen on the lake.
The spouses will also get a view of the city only seen by water, when they cruise down the Milwaukee River. After the cruise, spouses will visit the Milwaukee Public Market, situated in the city’s historic Third Ward. As you can see, as the state’s largest city, Milwaukee has plenty to offer
brothers of all ages, backgrounds and interests. We hope many will take advantage of their trip to the AGR National Convention to also visit the many other leisure-, agricultural- and educational-related attractions. If anyone is concerned about the difficulty to get to Milwaukee, it is easily reachable by several interstate highways, an international airport (and others nearby), and even by rail. Brothers might also take advantage of their trip to visit one of the three AGR chapters located in the state — Iota, Alpha Psi and Beta Gamma Chapter. A team of AGR brothers from a variety of chapters is currently working on Convention planning. This enthusiastic bunch of guys are guaranteeing the Convention will be fun, educational and inspirational. We look forward to seeing you in Milwaukee in 2020! Below: If you have the “bucket list” goal of visiting all the Major League Baseball parks, you can check off another with a game at Miller Park, home of the Milwaukee Brewers.
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SAVE THE DATE
2020 National Convention / July 22-24 Hilton Milwaukee City Center; Milwaukee, WI
The 2020 National Convention will be held at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center on July 22-24. Located in downtown Milwaukee, the Hilton is near the Riverwalk, the Milwaukee Public Market and more! Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with brothers all over the country. Meet other prominent leaders in agriculture, transact business of the Fraternity, witness the 2020 Hall of Fame inductions and explore the Milwaukee area. Save the date and start planning your trip to “The Other Coast!” Take advantage of this opportunity to Find Your Forward in July 2020
Visit www.alphagammarho.org/events
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The Pillars
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43
f ber o num te The a u d rgra unde ho w s R AG d ipate ic t r a p k ree in a G ed or s n o sp ip r e sh lead uch s t n eve orth as N rican e Am rnity frate Inter nce’s ere Conf Prime ct, a Imp ch Laun d n a ts. even
ber l num Tota s le u od of m d on e t le p com nct cone AGR 18-19 e 20 in th ar. ol ye scho
5,635
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17
1 ,250 From the 2014-15 academic year to the 2017-18 academic year, the number of new initiates was a downward trend going from 1,278 to 1,183. On average, 17.2 new members were initiated in the 2018-19 school year.
Edu cat e
Over the last school year, collegians completed 5,551 modules, alumni completed 80 and 4 non-members (Friends of AGR) completed modules varying from recruitment and risk management to personal finance and new member education.
Throughout the year, AGR members have the opportunity to attend leadership events hosted by the North-American Interfraternity Conference, the Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values and other organizations. The events foster improved relationships with campus leaders, build problem solving techniques and specifically prepare IFC Presidents for the task of leading Greek life on their campuses.
In his own words, “3 years. 43 chapters. 71 flights. 33,046 miles driven. Thousands of brothers met and influenced by.” Nathan’s dedication to AGR aided and added chapters across the country. Interested in working as a Chapter Consultant? Visit alphagammarho.org/opportunities. FA L L 2019
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Ending the Stigma of Mental Health IT’S THE CALL NOBODY wants to receive. A phone call to let you know a loved one has passed away. And then your heart sinks when you find out they committed suicide. That’s the call Wanda Gryszkiewicz received when she found out her 21-year-old son, Mitchell Gryszkiewicz, committed suicide in 2014 when he was a student at the University of Maryland and member of AGR. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents people from seeking and getting the help they need. Mental health in America is at crisis levels with more than 47,000 Americans dying by suicide in 2017, the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. for that year. Amidst the
Story by Matt Olson Photos by Isham Fernandez, Upsplash
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mental health crisis, men are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide, and white males accounted for nearly 70 percent of the suicide deaths in 2017.1 And those in rural America are at a higher risk for suicide— approximately 25 percent higher than urban communities2—while college students face unprecedented rates of mental health issues. Mental health encompasses more than preventing suicide. Maintaining mental health includes addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions affecting emotions, thinking and behavior.
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THE ALARMING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS IN RURAL AMERICA In recent years, U.S. farmers have experienced falling crop and milk prices, rising tariffs and weather-related disasters. All of this leads rural families to struggle to make ends meet. Financial problems on the farm and isolation in rural areas often lead to mental health concerns. “After four or five years of this, you can imagine the level of stress is significant,” says Jordan Treakle, of the National Farm Coalition. “And suddenly,
despite how much you are able to work—and put all your effort into that production—you’re not able to buy your groceries. You’re having to choose between your medicine and school fees.”3 For some farmers, there is great pride in operating the family farmstead and running the family business passed down from generation to generation. For some, losing the farm can mean they are losing their identity and livelihood. U.S. farmers have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession, dying at nearly
“We are trying to bring light to the shadows,” Michael said when discussing mental health. “We make it a point to check in and ask each other, ‘How are you doing?’” 20 SICKLE & SHEAF
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twice the rate of the general population. Yet farmers are often perceived as the rugged and tough men who are stoic and don’t express much emotion. More often than not, they’ve been taught not to complain or talk about their feelings. However, this determination to uphold rugged masculinity may be what is fueling the mental health crisis in rural America. In rural communities, many farmers are involved and serve important roles on their local school boards, fire departments, church councils and various other organizations. They are typically some of the first to step up and help others, and yet, they are usually the last to ask for help. As brothers in AGR, we’re taught to look out for our neighbors and to offer help because we can only be as strong as the communities we are part of. Our purpose as AGR members is to “Make Better Men,” but if we are not honest with ourselves about our health—which includes mental health—are we truly able to become the better men we strive to be? Talking about emotions, feelings, concerns and challenges is not a sign of weakness—it’s actually a sign of strength. But talking about these things goes against our understanding of what masculinity is, so
perhaps it’s time to redefine masculinity.
Open Conversations: Making Better Men Rural Americans are not the only group with an increased rate of mental health conditions. College students are likely now more than ever to experience overwhelming anxiety, depression, stress and suicidal ideation. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students. This is a reality that Michael Wijesinghe knows all too well. “We are trying to bring light to the shadows,” Michael said when discussing mental health. “We make it a point to check in and ask each other, ‘How are you doing?’” Wijesinghe, 2018 Noble Ruler of the Alpha
Theta Chapter, and his brothers at the University of Maryland regularly check in with each other on mental health. This has become a priority since they lost one of their own, Mitchell Gryszkiewicz, in 2014 to suicide. “We keep an opendoor policy,” Michael said. “Anybody can talk to anybody about anything they need to because we’re all here for each other.” The chapter has recognized that supporting each other by being open about how they feel is important to the health and well-being of every man in the Fraternity. The Alpha Theta Chapter has grown closer and stronger in the years since Mitchell’s suicide. United in a common cause to end the stigma of mental
health, the chapter has organized and participated in events to raise awareness of mental health including a hog roast barbeque, an Out of the Darkness Walk and, most recently, the “Alpha Gamma Rhodeo.” The Out of the Darkness Walk in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, focuses on bringing awareness and normalcy to the topic of mental health to change our culture’s taboo on mental health. Each year more than 150 campuses hold walks for the cause. In 2017, the University of Maryland Out of the Darkness Walk raised more than $26,000 with over 350 participants. Wanda Gryszkiewicz, Mitchell’s mother, was one of those walkers.
“Being strong and not asking for help is a behavior we teach our children,” said Wanda Gryszkiewicz. “Young men are taught to be strong all of the time, but even the strongest person has that moment where they need help. Everybody needs somebody.” Since losing her son, Wanda’s mission has been to raise awareness around mental health and let young adults and students know it is okay to not be okay. “These young men never cease to amaze me,” Wanda said when talking about the Alpha Theta Chapter’s efforts to raise awareness of mental health on campus. “There is a lot to balance as a college student. And often times, schools and campuses need more
Mental Health Crisis Signs For Farmers, Ranchers And Producers While not everyone exhibits the same warning signs of a mental health crisis, here are some signals to watch for: hh Declining care of the farm including the crops and animals hh Deteriorating personal upkeep and appearance hh Changes in mood and/or routine hh Increasing alcohol or drug use hh Being distanced and withdrawing from social events, family and friends hh Showing signs of family stress hh Complaining about physical condition and difficulty sleeping hh An increase in farm accidents hh Increasing life insurance hh Giving away possessions and saying goodbye hh Feeling trapped with no way out hh Making distressed statements such as, “I have nothing to live for,” and “My family would be better off without me.”
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WHAT TO DO IF YOU RECOGNIZE SIGNS OF MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS hh Listen, don’t blame. Farms are busy. Finding time can be challenging, but it’s important. Make time to listen and show compassion and empathy. Listening with care and concern may be just what is needed. hh Acknowledge the problem, don’t bury it. Families can provide encouragement and resources for help. Having a conversation could be the difference between helping someone and watching someone slide into a crisis. hh Faith and cultural beliefs can have a positive impact. For many people, faith is a strong support system. Be honest with clergy about your concerns—they are available to assist and accompany you through both the good times and the bad.
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resources and better access for mental health.”
Redefining Masculinity Too often, masculinity becomes a mask worn to bury emotions, feelings and the hurting that men actually experience. Redefining masculinity is one way to help end the stigma of mental health in men. “Our current definition of masculinity is very limited, and it’s that limited understanding of what it is to be male that may lead us to aggression,” said Hector Torres PsyD, director for the Center for Mental Health at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, in a post on the American Psychological Association website. 4 A lot of men struggle to admit
they may have mental health issues because they view it as a sign of weakness or a lack of personal fortitude. Because of the pressure to always be strong, many men don’t ask for the help they need. As we live into the full Purpose of “Making Better Men,” perhaps we need to consider opening up and receiving support from our family, friends, brothers and communities to become better men. By reframing the perception that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness, we can access the resources and help we need to be healthy. Starting conversations about the challenges we face and the impact on how we feel is an important step to ending the stigma of
mental health. Talk to your family, friends and neighbors about the stressors in your life.
Your Role In Ending The Stigma If you’re a sales rep or consultant who makes visits to farms, you are in a good position to ask your clients how they are and to truly engage in conversations that can make an impact. Discussions can be as simple as talking about the stressors for the farm or asking about how things are going on a personal level. People want and need to know others care about them. If you are a farmer, rancher, producer or someone living in rural America, talk with your family and neighbors about mental health. Be open and honest.
However, this determination to uphold rugged masculinity may be what is fueling the mental health crisis in rural America.
Commit to each other that if you’re ever approaching or in a mental health crisis, you’ll let each other know. Making this promise can be a first and powerful step towards building a support network for when times are tough. If you are a college student, chapter officer or Adviser, make it a point to ask your brothers, “How are you doing? Do you need to talk?” Developing a relationship and earnestly checking in could allow someone the opportunity to open up about their struggles and ask for help.
How Alpha Gamma Rho Is Stepping Up As a National Fraternity, it was realized that, while we coach chapters to use all
the resources available on their campus, AGR did not have any readily available tools to help our members have conversations around mental health. We know that college life, classroom expectations and campus involvement causes stress, anxiety and even depression for many students. Again, if we expect all members to live out the Purpose and Principles of Alpha Gamma Rho, the Fraternity needed to provide brothers with the ability to know how to start these initial conversations with each other. Through AGR’s partnership with Plaid, a company focused on personal and professional growth through hands-on learning, all members, collegiate and alumni, have access
to an entirely new risk management series conveniently located within AGRconnect. Specifically within the mental health and wellness module, you can learn about common issues, how to recognize mental health issues within yourself and those around you, and provide resources for dealing with these potential issues. Making Better Men is as much a collective effort as it is an individual endeavor, and if AGR is to be a brotherhood, our members need to know it is okay to talk with one another about how their day is going, how we can help each other, and know there are resources to take advantage of when necessary.
You Are Not Alone If you or someone you know is in crisis, hhCall the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, hhText HOME to 741741 or hhVisit SuicidePrevention Lifeline.org for support and resources.
References: 1. afsp.org/about-suicide/suicide-statistics/ 2. jamanetwork.com/journals/ jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2749451 3. Interview from: www.wearegreenbay. com/washington/washington-dc/ american-farmers-experiencing-mentalhealth-crisis-amid-trump-trade-warbad-weather/ 4. www.apa.org/monitor/2012/06/ masculinity
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The Harvest This section is dedicated to recognizing accomplishments of Alpha Gamm Rho in the 2018-19 year. We celebrate the progress of the entire Fraternity and the excellence of its chapters, collegians, alumni, Advisers, Housemother/House Directors, and all those who help advance our Purpose of Making Better Men. The Harvest includes Leadership Seminar updates, Fraternal Excellence Awards, scholarship recipients, major donors and more.
ISTOCKPHOTO
Whether you are a collegiate leader, an adviser, or a generous donor, thank you for helping Alpha Gamma Rho pursue excellence.
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The Harvest
Leadership Seminar Update Through peer advisement and facilitated sessions, the 2019 Leadership Seminars cultivated “Agents for Change.” The seminars, held in Oklahoma City, Salt Lake City, Indianapolis, and Richmond, were designed to develop and enhance leadership skills. More than 700 Alpha Gamma Rho and Sigma Alpha members attended
AGR 2019 Leadership Seminar Attendance:
workshops geared toward conflict resolution, decision making, expanding networks, active listening, risk management, and more. “I was not only able to build a better bond with my chapter brothers. I built a bond between brothers from across the country,” (Indianapolis attendee). Through the connections made at the Leadership Seminars, undergraduates will be able to crack the code in growing their chapter and personal strengths. “My biggest takeaway from the event was the amount of knowledge there is still to learn about AGR. By networking, speaking, engaging, and listening to professionals and learning from peers, we were able to combine ideas to bring back to our chapter to implement effectively.” (Indianapolis attendee) Leadership Seminars equip members with the skills to effectively serve their chapter, university, and community.
384 Undergraduates 28 Advisers 52 Alumni 64 Chapters participated (91%) 1 Colony (SUNY Cobleskill) FA L L 2019
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The Harvest GOLD CHAPTER Eta, Iowa State Theta, Missouri Iota, Wisconsin-Madison Kappa, Nebraska-Lincoln Lambda, Minnesota Nu, North Carolina State
AGR Fraternal Excellence Awards Green & Gold Chapters All Alpha Gamma Rho Chapters have an opportunity to be recognized for their excellence. Chapters who achieve all of the requirements for four of the seven categories below
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State Alpha Theta, Maryland Alpha Iota, Arkansas Alpha Kappa, TennesseeKnoxville Alpha Pi, Arizona Alpha Sigma, Fresno State Alpha Upsilon, Tennessee-Martin Alpha Phi, South Dakota State Alpha Psi, Wisconsin-River Falls Beta Sigma, Tarleton State
GREEN CHAPTER
will be recognized as a Green Chapter while Chapters
Epsilon, North Dakota State
who achieve all of the requirements for six of the seven
Phi, California-Davis
categories below will be recognized as a Gold Chapter. 1. Academic Excellence 2. Lifelong Membership Development 3. Continued Alumni Engagement 4. Chapter Crescents 5. Recruitment Excellence
Alpha Gamma, Florida Alpha Delta, Montana State Beta Lambda, Texas A&MCommerce Beta Nu, Texas A&M
6. Communications
Beta Xi, Texas Tech
7. Living the Promise & Values
Beta Omicron, Wyoming Beta Rho, Northwest Missouri State Beta Phi, Idaho Beta Chi, Stephen F Austin
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The Harvest Academic Excellence Recognizes the top three chapters that have shown campus leadership in academics and established a strong academic program for their chapter. HIGHEST HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Pi, Oklahoma State HONORABLE MENTION
Lambda, Minnesota
Continued Alumni Engagement Recognizes the top three chapters who continually foster strong alumni involvement and leadership both on and off campus throughout the year. HIGHEST HONOR
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State HIGH HONOR
Eta, Iowa
HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Gamma, Florida
Chapter Crescent: Single Issue Recognizes the top three chapters who have compiled a Crescent that is visually appealing, free of grammatical errors, and is comprised of approximately 75% Alumni News and 25% undergraduate news. HIGHEST HONOR
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State HIGH HONOR
Iota, Wisconsin-Madison HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Psi, Wisconsin-River Falls
Chapter Crescent: Best Feature Story Chapters who wish to apply for this award will submit the article as it appeared in their Chapter Crescent. A feature story can include, but is not limited to, making a difference on campus or in the community, alumni accomplishments to the chapter or agricultural industry, chapter philanthropic events, etc. HIGHEST HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State
HIGHEST HONOR
Kappa, Nebraska-Lincoln HIGH HONOR
Alpha Gamma, Florida HONORABLE MENTION
Eta, Iowa State
Lifelong Membership Development Recognizes the top three chapters that have implemented a program which encompasses continuous education and lifelong personal development in not only new members, but also successful re-engagement of alumni. HIGHEST HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Nu, North Carolina State HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Pi, Arizona
Recruitment Excellence Recognizes top three chapters that have implemented an effective, year round recruitment program. HIGHEST HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State HONORABLE MENTION
Beta Nu, Texas A&M
Living the Promise & Values Recognizes the top three chapters that enthusiastically embrace and uphold the Promise & Values, in turn continually presenting a positive image of Alpha Gamma Rho. HIGHEST HONOR
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State HIGH HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Psi, Wisconsin- River Falls
Outstanding Community Service & Philanthropic Efforts Recognizes the top three chapters who are involved in their communities and promoting service through volunteerism and philanthropic efforts. HIGHEST HONOR
HONORABLE MENTION
Beta Sigma, Tarleton State
Communications
Alpha Gamma, Florida
Iota, Wisconsin-Madison Recognizes chapters who are engaging alumni, potential new members and those outside of the fraternity through multiple online platforms. Chapters who are actively involved on their chapter website, e-newsletters, social media sites, and more are eligible.
HIGH HONOR
HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Theta, Maryland
Housemother/House Director Social & Cultural Development Recognizes Housemothers/ House Directors that have developed and implemented programs and initiatives to improve the social development and/or cultural awareness of the brothers. HIGHEST HONOR
Arlene McCollum Theta, Missouri
Outstanding Adviser Recognizes three individuals who go above and beyond when it comes to engagement and assistance to their chapter, as well as being a living testament to the AGR Promise & Values. The Fraternity recognizes that the Chapter Advisers play an important role in helping chapters Make Better Men. HIGHEST HONOR
HIGH HONOR
James Hundle Theta, Missouri
HONORABLE MENTION
Todd Lone Alpha Sigma, Fresno State
Logan Yearsley Alpha Theta, Maryland Cindra Brandl Kappa, Nebraska-Lincoln
Housemother/House Director Management Recognizes the top three Housemothers/House Directors that consistently demonstrate superior management of the chapter facilities and the chapter as a whole. HIGHEST HONOR
Diane Pinneke Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Dianna Philippi Alpha Zeta, Kansas State HONORABLE MENTION
Jacque Bartholomew Phi, California-Davis
Outstanding Undergraduates of the Year Recognizes collegiate brothers who are excelling in their college career, both on campus and with the Fraternity. Criteria will be based on academic achievements, leadership and community involvement, and personal growth. A brother may only receive this honor once.
HIGH HONOR
HONORABLE MENTION
Wayne Davenport Beta Sigma, Tarleton State
Adviser Service 5 YEARS
Jim Bannon Xi (Auburn) Brad Skaar Eta (Iowa State) Bill Heinemann Sigma (Washington State) Bill Everett Omega (New Hampshire) Ryan Martin Delta (Purdue) Jason Wrage Alpha (Illinois) Dan Miller Alpha Alpha (West Virginia) Richard Rosecrance Beta Kappa (California State-Chico) John Michael Mehaffey Beta Chi (Stephen F. Austin) 10 YEARS
Ross Love Pi (Oklahoma State) Thomas Pridgen Beta Eta (Virginia Tech)
BRANDON HANSON
Michael Shirley Beta Theta (Middle Tennessee)
DANIEL TAYLOR
Clint Stevenson Nu (North Carolina State)
Eta, Iowa State
Phi, California-Davis ZACHARY JONES
Alpha Theta, Maryland
Committed Alumni Corporation Recognizes chapters whose Alumni Corporation has demonstrated hard work and continued success for their chapter’s undergraduate membership. HIGHEST HONOR
Eta, Iowa State HIGH HONOR
Alpha Theta, Maryland HONORABLE MENTION
Alpha Iota, Arkansas
15 YEARS
Frank Luenser Chi (Cal Poly-SLO) Malcom Manners Gamma Alpha (Florida Southern)
Housemother/House Director 5 YEAR
Logan Yearsley Alpha Theta (Maryland) Diane Pinneke Eta (Iowa State) Rita Williams Rho (Colorado State)
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The Harvest
2019 Scholarship Recipients
Up to four scholarships will be awarded to the individuals that excel in scholarship, leadership, citizenship, activities, and fraternal involvement. >> Cole DeWitt, Oklahoma State >> Evan Berger, Texas A&M >> Nate Heimann, Nebraska-Lincoln >> Riley Sleichter, Kansas State
BILL SALLEE SCHOLARSHIP Alpha Gamma Rho Pi Chapter members who truly have the financial need and exhibit leadership and citizenship traits like Bill Sallee including individual endeavor, resourcefulness, aggressive effort and a balanced lifestyle. >> Caleb Hutson, Oklahoma State
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The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho offers scholarships to the undergraduate brothers across the country. Criteria for eligibility for each scholarship differs, but is based on the individual’s pursuit of excellence in scholarship and leadership, and for his contributions to community and Fraternity. The deadline for all scholarship applications is April 30.
AGR EXCELLENCE SCHOLARSHIP
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The Harvest DAIRY SCHOLARSHIP
HORTICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP
LINDLEY FINCH SCHOLARSHIP
Ole Meland has provided a scholarship for an AGR undergraduate who achieves high levels of excellence and is pursuing a major in dairy science, dairy husbandry, or animal science with a dairy emphasis. An undergraduate candidate at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo will be given first preference.
George Staby has provided for one scholarship to be awarded to an undergraduate who is enrolled with a declared horticulture-related major in; among others: entomology, environmental horticulture, horticulture, landscape gardening, landscape horticulture, ornamental horticulture, pest control, plant breeding, plant pathology, plant science (with horticulture emphasis), pomology, and/or vegetable crops; who has completed at least three courses in the department of his declared major.
The Foundation will grant one scholarship to an undergraduate who truly has financial need and exhibits leadership and citizenship traits like those of Lindley Finch, including endeavor, resourcefulness, aggressive effort, and a balanced lifestyle. First preference will be given to students of Eta Chapter, Iowa State University.
>> Derrick Nunes, Cal Poly
DALE RUNNION SCHOLARSHIP Presented to a current AGR undergraduate who plans to complete a college course to pursue a career in agrimarketing, journalism, advertising or public relations. The completion or plans to complete a course in livestock judging or evaluation, campus and/ or community leadership and active participation in journalistic activities will receive strong consideration. >> Justin Ringkob, South Dakota State
GENE SWACKHAMER AG ECONOMICS/ AG BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP Presented annually to one AGR undergraduate who achieves high levels of excellence and is pursuing a major in agricultural economics, agribusiness, resource management or closely related field of study. >> Dylan Boling, Missouri
HAROLD OLSON SCHOLARSHIP Presented to an Alpha Gamma Rho undergraduate who has achieved high levels of excellence in scholarship, leadership, citizenship, brotherhood, activities and service. >> Kade Hill, Illinois
>> John Rawley, Washington State
J. WAYNE REHN SCHOLARSHIP Sophomore or junior member with preference given to Alpha Chapter members, who is majoring in preveterinary medicine or in animal science, living in the Fraternity house, and agrees to return to college for his ensuing year, live in the chapter house and continue to pursue his major with a high GPA. >> Hayden Keltner, Illinois
KIRBY BARRICK AGRICULTURE EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP This fund provides one scholarship to a male student who plans to study agricultural education at a college with an AGR chapter with the intent to teach after graduation. Payment of the scholarship is made once the student enrolls in agricultural education and is initiated into the local AGR chapter.
>> Jacob Sterle, Iowa State
ROBERT L. OEHRTMAN SCHOLARSHIP The recipient must be enrolled as a full-time student at his university and current brother of AGR, who has held leadership positions in his community, academics or religious affiliations. Applicant must have a GPA of 3.0 or better. >> Eric Ball, Idaho
UNDERGRADUATE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Two scholarships are presented to outstanding undergraduates that excel in all areas of involvement on campus and within Alpha Gamma Rho. >> Luke Muller, Oklahoma State >> Andrew Johnson, Illinois
>> Tanner Goodlett, Kentucky
Apply for The Educational Foundation’s Scholarships! Applying for scholarships from The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho has never been easier! Undergraduate members can apply for over 10 available scholarships with just one online form. The “Educational Foundation Scholarship Application” can be found at www.alphagammarho.org/educational-foundation-scholarshipapplication. All applications should be submitted between March 1 and April 30 each year.
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The Harvest
Lifetime Giving Levels The following Lifetime Giving Levels recognize brothers with cumulative lifetime giving of $50,000 or more to The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho as of September 30, 2019. Thank you for all your generous and continued support for AGR.
NAME CHAPTER-SCHOOL Founders’ Circle
TOTAL # OF GIFTS
$1,000,000 – 4,999,999
A.J. Jacques
Pi, Oklahoma State
40
Malone Mitchell
Pi, Oklahoma State
1
Order of the Brotherhood
$500,000 – $999,999
Phil Francis
Alpha, Illinois
23
Adayana Inc.
Non-Member
1
Order of the Harvest
Kirby Barrick
$100,000 - $499,999
Beta, Ohio State
82
Dick Bere
Beta, Ohio State
18
Thomas Timmer
Beta, Ohio State
10
Byram Dickes
Delta, Purdue
40
Douglas Eckrote
Delta, Purdue
24
Mike Jackson
Delta, Purdue
41
Steven Newcom
Delta, Purdue
42
Gene Swackhamer
Delta, Purdue
82
Al Johnson
Epsilon, North Dakota State
64
David Sunderland
Epsilon, North Dakota State
Bill Hantke
Iota, Wisconsin Madison
13
Samuel Davis
Nu, North Carolina State
37
Gary Clark
Pi, Oklahoma State
33
Bradley Gungoll
Pi, Oklahoma State
4
Doug Jackson
Pi, Oklahoma State
10
Lee Larkin
Pi, Oklahoma State
31
Doyle Jacklin
Sigma, Washington State
71 39
3
Donald De Jong
Chi, Cal-Poly
N. Brooks
Alpha Gamma, Florida
5
John Douthat
Alpha Gamma, Florida
30
Bernie Lester
Alpha Gamma, Florida
63
Ed Smoak
Alpha Gamma, Florida
Randy Stoecker
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State
67
Doug Weyer
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State
53
Bill Boehm
Alpha Psi, UW-River Falls
127
Norberta Modliszewski Non-Member
9
3
Order of the Shield $50,000 - $99,999
Ed Foley
Alpha, Illinois
63
Gerald Gehlbach
Alpha, Illinois
30
Steven Gerdes
Alpha, Illinois
6
Larry Gerdes
Alpha, Illinois
11
Jim Ross
Alpha, Illinois
49
David Schick
Alpha, Illinois
29
James Berg
Beta, Ohio State
33
Bill Richards
Beta, Ohio State
17
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NAME CHAPTER-SCHOOL
TOTAL # OF GIFTS
Rick Carpenter
Gamma, Penn State
John Shearer
Gamma, Penn State
77 31
William Yerkes
Gamma, Penn State
27
Dick Belcher
Delta, Purdue
27
Sandy Belden
Delta, Purdue
60
Joseph Coffey
Delta, Purdue
65
Tom Davis
Delta, Purdue
60
Joseph Hasler
Delta, Purdue
14
Gregg Halverson
Epsilon, North Dakota State
8
Corey Martin
Epsilon, North Dakota State
13
Jim Borel
Eta, Iowa State
53
Sigmund Cornelius
Eta, Iowa State
44 52
David Van Wert
Eta, Iowa State
Steve Ellis
Theta, Missouri
91
Robert Wheeler
Theta, Missouri
10
Karl Drye
Iota, Wisconsin-Madison
30
Russ Schuler
Iota, Wisconsin-Madison
2
Jerry Steiner
Iota, Wisconsin-Madison
32
Glenn Stith
Omicron, Kentucky
30
Ray Beck
Pi, Oklahoma State
3
Jeffrey Bode
Pi, Oklahoma State
4
Joe Hinz
Pi, Oklahoma State
17
A.L. Hutson
Pi, Oklahoma State
62 28
Paul Schulte
Pi, Oklahoma State
Scott Sewell
Pi, Oklahoma State
15
James Sigmon
Pi, Oklahoma State
14
K. Wayne Sizelove
Pi, Oklahoma State
2
Dennis Slagell
Pi, Oklahoma State
21
Paul Yauk
Pi, Oklahoma State
Gerry Rominger
Phi, California-Davis
54
5
Ole Meland
Chi, Cal-Poly
40
Skye Krebs
Alpha Beta, Oregon State
Richard Ladd
Alpha Beta, Oregon State
6
Gary Nuss
Alpha Beta, Oregon State
64
6
Dale Zimmerman
Alpha Gamma, Florida
18
Steve Burgess
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State
27
Loren Kruse
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State
88
James Mitchell
Alpha Iota, Arkansas
14
Donnie Smith
Alpha Kappa, Tennessee-Knoxville 4
Larry Lepper
Alpha Tau, Western Illinois
38
Phil Nichols
Alpha Tau, Western Illinois
13
Lillian Fobes
Non-Members
3
Smoak Groves, Inc.
Non-Members
1
The Harvest
Loyalty Fund For AGR: Giving For Our Purpose The 2018-2019 Loyalty Fund for AGR enables the Eductional Foundation to support programs for the National Fraternity including scholarships, Leadership Seminars, Recruitment Schools, Adviser Forums, Matching Funds and more. With the switch in our giving year from the fiscal year (July-June) to the calendar year (January-December), this means you still have the opportunity to make a gift to The Educational Foundation's Loyalty Fund.
Four Pillars Society $5,000+ Four Pillars Society membership is based on annual undesignated contribution of $5,000 or more, specifically in response to Loyalty Fund for AGR solicitation. This listing recognizes Brothers who are focused on a vision in support of educational programs that inspire young Brothers towards success. ALPHA, ILLINOIS
David Schick
EPSILON, NORTH DAKOTA STATE
Jack Brown
IOTA, WISCONSIN-MADISON
Jerry Steiner
SIGMA, WASHINGTON STATE
CHI, CAL POLY
Doyle Jacklin
ALPHA SIGMA, FRESNO STATE
Donald De Jong
Ian Burnett
Grand President Society $1,000 – $1,903
1904 Society: Alumni $1,904 – $4,999
2018-2019 Grand President’s Society membership is based on annual, undesignated contributions of $1,000-$1,903, specifically in response to Loyalty Fund for AGR solicitation. This listing recognizes brothers who are focused on a vision in support of educational programs that inspire young brothers towards success.
ALPHA, ILLINOIS
ALPHA, ILLINOIS
Clifford Beatty William Dimond Ed Dollinger Wilbur Nelson Lyle Orwig BETA, OHIO STATE
Terry Krukemyer Hugh Wilson GAMMA, PENN STATE
Rick Carpenter William Yerkes
Tim Heiller Jim Howe David Van Wert Arlen Wonderlich IOTA, WISCONSINMADISON
Samuel Miller Bernie Staller KAPPA, NEBRASKA
Hal Cooper OMICRON, KENTUCKY
DELTA, PURDUE
Steve Hupman Tom Waldrop
Dick Feltner Patrick Scheetz
PI, OKLAHOMA STATE
EPSILON, NORTH DAKOTA STATE
Myron Johnsrud ZETA, CORNELL
Timothy Dayka Douglas Mains Greg Wickham ETA, IOWA STATE
Fred Bahrenburg John Bonner Charlie Brown Sigmund Cornelius
Gary Clark Dale Elsner A.L. Hutson A.J. Jaques Ken Root RHO, COLORADO STATE
David Ellicott Brian Field Robert Prosser TAU, MICHIGAN STATE
William Graves William Hellegas
PHI, CALIFORNIADAVIS
Wayne Bartholomew Pete Boyce Ken McCorkle John Pucheu Gerry Rominger CHI, CAL-POLY
Anthony Azevedo Jeffery Sanders
ALPHA PI, ARIZONA
Robert Briggs Ronald Rayner ALPHA RHO, VERMONT
Jim Carpenter Erwin Clark ALPHA UPSILON, TENNESSEEMARTIN
Robert Earnest
ALPHA GAMMA, FLORIDA
ALPHA PSI, UW-RIVER FALLS
Barry Bustillo Bernie Lester
Phil George
ALPHA DELTA, MONTANA STATE
Jim Gannon ALPHA ZETA, KANSAS STATE
Robert Broeckelman Donald Griffiths Keith Heikes ALPHA THETA, MARYLAND
Fendley Ragland ALPHA KAPPA, TENNESSEEKNOXVILLE
ALPHA OMEGA, MURRAY STATE
Brett Bayston David Hollinrake Thad Kuhfuss Dave Maurer BETA, OHIO STATE
Kirby Barrick DELTA, PURDUE
BETA THETA, MIDDLE TENNESSEE
Jason Searles
John Tarpley
The 1904 Society recognizes donors at three levels: 1904 Society: Alumni - All alumni can join this level by making a gift of $1,904-$4,999 per fiscal year to the Loyalty Fund for AGR. 1904 Society: Young Alumni - Young Alumni (30 years or younger) can join this level by making a gift of $19.04 per month (or $228.48 per fiscal year) to the Loyalty Fund for AGR. 1904 Society: Collegiate - Collegians can join this level by making a gift of $19.04 or more per fiscal year to the Loyalty Fund for AGR.
Larry Engelkemier William Schilling
Clark McKee
Troy Johnson
ALPHA DELTA, MONTANA STATE
ALPHA CHI, WESTERN KENTUCKY
Jim Driscoll ALPHA ZETA, KANSAS STATE
Loren Kruse
PI, OKLAHOMA STATE
Al Johnson
Dennis Slagell
Kelly Keithly
ZETA, CORNELL
PHI, CALIFORNIA- DAVIS
ALPHA TAU, WEST VIRGINA
Andy White ETA, IOWA STATE
Glenn Stith
Jeremy Turner
Mike Borel
ALPHA IOTA, ARKANSAS
Rex Martin ALPHA PI, ARIZONA
Jack Britt Ernest Yates ALPHA PSI, UWRIVER FALLS
Bill Boehm Phil Josephson BETA ETAVIRGINIA TECH
Ronnie Green
Darcy Kessler Gerry Salzman
1904 Society: Young Alumni ($19.04 per month) CHI
ALPHA PHI
Ethan Schriver
Brad Blaha
EPSILON
Logan Peters David Schuler Alex Wach
PSI
ALPHA PSI
Martin Peterson
LAMBDA
Jonathan Allen
ZETA
Jake Robinson Thomas Schwarz
ALPHA GAMMA
Adam Kramer Eric Schaffner
Kevin Kistler
Andrew Luce Douglas Mains Matthew Saville
Seth Williams
Will Dukes Jared Finks Clark Futch
ETA
OMICRON
ALPHA ZETA
Grant Bargfrede Scott Borcherding
Kimo Kimura Jacob Mattingly Benjamin Willoughby
Nathan Laudan Jed Strnad
BETA NU
ALPHA THETA
BETA PHI
THETA
NU
Mark Baker Kyle Fergason Jesse Stiefel
PI
KAPPA
Eric Brown
Ryan Betka Alan Christensen Ross Miller
Dan Bomhoff TAU PHI
Jeremy Turner
Zachary Lyons ALPHA IOTA
Chris Looney Fendley Ragland ALPHA LAMBDA
Tyler DuBry
BETA THETA
Jason Searles Randy Stubblefield Nick Kucera Floyde Forman Nick Winner BETA OMEGA
Patrick Eslinger David Selby GAMMA ALPHA
Kevin Kersey
1904 Society: Collegiate ($19.04 per year) NU
ALPHA LAMBDA
ALPHA UPSILON
BETA PHI
James Hubbard
Carlos Hinojos Tyler McBride
Rhett Fussell
Ross Blattner
PSI
Ryan Wilhelm
KAPPA, NEBRASKA
ALPHA PHI, SOUTH DAKOTA STATE
EPSILON, NORTH DAKOTA STATE
BETA GAMMA, UW- PLATTEVILLE
Michael Freeman
Jerome Graeser Larry Warren
ALPHA ALPHA, WEST VIRGINIA
OMICRON, KENTUCKY
DELTA
BETA ZETA, CLEMSON
THETA, MIZZOU
Gene Swackhamer Keith Welty
Dwight Armstrong Kenneth Myers
Duane Schaefer
Greg Nickerson
ALPHA ZETA
Michael Dowd
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SICKLE & SHEAF
31
The Harvest
Memorial and Honorary Gifts may be made on behalf of any Alpha Gamma Rho brother and directed to any fund. The following listing recognizes the Alpha Gamma Rho brothers and friends who have given in honor of a brother or supporter between July 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019. Merrill P. Ferris
In Memory Of:
David Ainsworth By Karl C. Anderson By Peter C. Fitzgerald By Charles B. Gulick By Laurence C. Jost By Martin D. Waterman By Andrew & Kendra Wright
Price Bratten By Jerome C. Graeser
Jack T. Condulis By Lynda Tragakes
Thomas C. Drummond By Lyle E. Hodgskiss
Leo F. Etter By By By By
Gregory D. Etter F. Dennis Gesse L. Patrick Scheetz Thomas R. Stierwalt
Wyatt A. Feltman By Wayne Feltman
Albert E. Ferris By John N. Ferris PhD
32 SICKLE & SHEAF
FALL 2019
By John N. Ferris PhD
William (Bill) Flinn By James G. Van Wychen
Paul C. Griebel By John F. Campe By Craig L. Fields
Bernard E. Harris By Jan Harris
Ron Hurt By Mark A. Seest
Frank C. Johns By Polly W. Johns
Helen Josephson By By By By
Grant W. Bargfrede Keith D. Bjerke James C. Borel Loren J. Kruse
Richard F. Kelly By Jay B. Boosinger
Bob Knudson By Brant B. Bigger
By Mark R. Hawk By F. Jean Rehn By Ray E. Ropp
William H. MacFarlane By Sharon MacFarlane
Charles E. Main By Edwin H. Shuford
Tom M. Means By Walter P. Waitt
John E. Meetz By Loren J. Kruse
Emil M. Mark By Dean W. Wheeler
Charlie A. Napier By By By By By By By By By By By
Kirby Barrick Keith Barrick James C. Borel Keith D. Bjerke James C. Borrel Rick S. Carpenter Robert L. Clinkscales Nathan W. Laudan Kenneth P. Morrison Robert S. Wheeler Bill L. Williams
William W. Ortlieb By Andrew P. White
Jerry L. Puppe By Henry Bauer By Keith D. Bjerke By Jack Brown By Erwin C. Clark By Wendell Doolittle By James L. Driscoll By William Evans By Ronald & Connie Isernhagen By D.F. Jenkins
By By By By By By By By By
Philip Josephson Sharyl Kennedy Lynn & Ann Kindred Larry L. Laverentz Dennis Puppe Gary L. Puppe Russell Puppe Donald F. Schwartz Rochelle Silvers
Bob Rodibaugh By Roger & Nancy Rodibaugh
Richard J. Rosaco By Cletus J. Lilly
Bob L. Ross By Kenneth M. Walsh
Roy H. Saigo By By By By By
Donald E. Brock Phillip H. Maxwell Roy H. Saigo William H. Weitkamo Terrence P. Witzel
William F. Short By the family of William F. Short
Mason G. Smoak By Tracee Smoak
George M. Thomas DVM By Barbara Thomas
Bruce Waterman By David M. Caldwell
Daniel L. Winans By Rick H. Hiatt
Elder S. Wolfe By Barbara A. Wolfe
Debbie Zientek By Michael E. Zientek
ISTOCKPHOTO
Memorial & Honorary Gifts
L. Gene Lemon
The Harvest
Heritage Club The Heritage Club honors brothers and friends of Alpha Gamma Rho who leave a legacy for the future of the Fraternity through specific gifts or bequests. Admittance is attained with planned gifts of $10,000 or more designated to The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho as of September 30, 2019.
Alpha, Illinois
Theta, Missouri
Chi, Cal Poly
Alpha Rho, Vermont
Jim Ross Steven Gerdes Jim Zumwalt
Zane Akins Lynn Fahrmeier Lowell Newsom Dan Prosser Bradley Starbuck
Ole Meland
Erwin Clark Laurence Jost Don McFeeters
Beta, Ohio State Kirby Barrick
Delta, Purdue Dick Feltner Mike Jackson Ted Priebe Gene Swackhamer
Epsilon, North Dakota
Kappa, Nebraska Ron Grapes William Schilling Charlie Trauger
Nu, North Carolina State Tyler Warren
Omicron, Kentucky
Jack Brown Tom Gates Al Johnson
David Case Glenn Stith
Eta, Iowa State
Pi, Oklahoma State
Fred Bahrenburg Mike Borel Gary Butson Bret Carter Scott Flynn Steve Hanson Tim Heiller David Van Wert Robert Vasko Arlen Wonderlich
James Ferrell
Alpha Beta, Oregon State Vince McElligott
Alpha Delta, Montana State Jim Driscoll
Alpha Zeta, Kansas State JD Hagerdorn Edwin Kerley Loren Kruse Warren Nichols Tim Rosenhagen Curtis Steenbock Doug Weyer
Alpha Theta, Maryland Paul Weller
Sigma, Washington State
Alpha Kappa, Tennessee Knoxville
Doyle Jacklin
Thomas White
Tau, Michigan State
Alpha Lambda, New Mexico State
John Welser
Phi, California-Davis John Kidd Jeremy Turner
Paul Gutierrez
Alpha Tau, Western Illinois Jeff Warner
Alpha Psi, UW River Falls Bill Boehm Phil Josephson
Beta Eta, Virginia Tech Jay Poole
Beta Tau, Mississippi State Brad Garrison
Non-members Carol Johnson If you have included the Educational Foundation in your will or estate plan, please notify the Home Office. You will be recognized as a member of the Heritage Club, one whose legacy will Make Better Men.
Alpha Pi, Arizona Len Richardon
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SICKLE & SHEAF 33
Transitions
In Memory of Our Great Brothers
The following deaths were reported to the Home Office between April 8, 2019 and September 30, 2019. The listing includes initiation year. Arkansas James William Boyd, 1969
Connecticut Robbins B. Smith, 1958
Middle Tennessee Randall Ray Aaron, 1967
Oregon State James L. Chapman, 1962
Arizona Dendy Smith Boggs, 1964 Thomas R. Bennett, 1958 Arden D. Day, 1968
Cornell Kenneth Eugene Van Liew, 1951 Raymond S. Wilkes, 1951 William D. Hughes, 1952
Auburn John O. Till, 1965 James Lavaughn Johnson, 1961
Florida Ivy Randolph Robison, 1934 William (Bill) R. Cotton, 1948 Keaton Edward Ingeman, 2015
Minnesota Herbert E. Pinke, 1942 Allen Lloyd Lundgren, 1949 Chris G. Woelfel, 1955 Robert D. Cleary, DVM, 1960
Penn State David James Woods, 1941 Alvin G. Leidel, 1948 Joseph E. Williams, Sr., 1959 David C. Mattern, 1968 Fred W. Schank, 1954 Alan R. Terwilliger, 1947 Joseph P. Freeh, 1947
Cal Poly State University- SLO John C. Seitzer, 1979 Colorado State Donald Ross Chambers, 1962 Warren F. Rockey, 1964 Ronald W. McNew, 1960 Lester M Cain, 1958 Dennis Ingwersen, 1958 Richard D. Karnes, 1954 Paul D. Leiby, 1955 Gail (Chris) A. Willis, 1955 Earl L. Dazey, 1951 Darlan (Doc) J. Rezac, DVM, 1957 Philip A. Blair, DVM, 1952 William L. Raley, 1952 Donald L. Schmitt, 1949 Philip G. Stiles, 1950 James P. Hoffman, 1942 Gerald J. Fugger, 1942 Jack Douglas, 1946 Charles G. Howard, 1947 James W. Ash, 1947 Roy D. Burkhart, 1939 Robert E. Alberthal, 1939 Clyde Richard Covault, 1940 Samuel R. Combs, 1935 Ralph L. Lessel, 1936 Loewll P. Bland, 1938 Walter F. Condon, DVM, 1938 Kenneth H. Wadleigh, 1938 Harold A. Ewing, 1940 Willard E. Hays, 1941 George R. Hixson, 1942 Forrest Christie, 1947 William McClellan, 1948 William P. Schlicht, 1948 Gordon A. Smyth, 1953 Robert W. Tice, 1953 James T. Summers, DVM, 1956 Joseph M. Hickman, 1961 Ray E. Race, 1963 Eldon K. Weiss, 1963 Phillip S. Richardson, 1964 34 SICKLE & SHEAF
FALL 2019
Georgia Billy N. Rentz, 1964 Thomas M. Pollock, 1969 Bobby E. Deal, 1958 John Cecil Daniels, 1952 H. Randy Prichard, 1973 Illinois Ron R. Ericson, 1952 Robert K. Hunt, 1954
Missouri Frederick H. Ferrell, 1961 John R. Harvey, 1956 Herbert E. Clizer, 1947 Darrell L. Mansfield, 1951 Webster E. Bay, 1953 Andrew Marcus Fleming, 2010 Montana State Thomas C. Drummond, 1948 Robert Lincoln Ross, 1942 Murray State Philip L. Clifton, 1971
Iowa State William Franklin Short, Jr., 1955 Richard L. Meyer, 1960 Glen E. Barrington, DVM, 1946
Nebraska Leroy E. Friesen, 1961 David L. Arends, 1974 Elliot E. Johnson, 1962
Kansas State Peter S. Fletcher, 1974 Eric I Schwantz, 1989
North Carolina State James H. Prevette, 1948
Kentucky John Smith Mitchell, 1955 William L. Adams, 1955 Ralph Ellsworth Meacham, 1962 Alan Kent Akers, Sr., 1968 Edward Earl Gerhard, 1970 Maine Harry E. Potter, 1951 Maryland Clifford A. Jenkins, 1952 Michigan State Robert H. Wilkinson, 1952 Theodore L. Lamb, 1955 Gilbert A. Lloyd, 1935 James R. Walker, 1940 Robert B. Abbott, 1947 Elmer Gene Gannett, 1949 Theodore F. Melichar, 1949 Gerald D. Boynton, 1955
North Dakota State Allyn K. Hart, 1958 Ohio State Richard G. Klepinger, 1950 C. William Swank, 1950 Nick Havas, 1950 Gary D. Ruckel, 1958 Danny Allen Van Fossen, 1939 Robert P. Copp, 1947 Bruce E. Walton, 1949 D. Fred Hermstein, 1955 Michael L. Wagner, 1960 Dennis H. Biery, 1962 Donald Modica, 1951 Lucas James Regula, 2006 Oklahoma State Jerry A. Middlebusher, 1958 George Michael Thomas, DVM, 1960 Raymond F. Ridlen II, 1980 Ronald Joe Sharp, 1954 Bobby Gene Knap, 1955
Purdue Dean E. Hodge, 1948 Don A. Winters, 1951 Leo F. Etter, 1964 Joshua Ryan Martin, 2004 Southern Illinois Roger Douglas Grace, 1970 Edwin A. Termuende, 1970 Tennessee-Knoxville Charles Estes Claybrook, 1957 Tennessee-Martin Clarence (Rod) N. Parrar, 1969 Jimmy (Jim) C. Castellaw, 1927 Durwood G. Moore, 1990 Vermont David M. Ainsworth, 1974 Donald M. Canedy, 1964 Roger W. Murray, 1987 Washington State Lawrence L. Brown, 1938 Western Kentucky Orville (Pete) W. Dotson, III, 1966 Kenneth A. Raybourne, 1966 Steve Davenport, 1972 Michael G. Westerfield, 1979 Roger C. Bradford, 1970 John N. Henshaw, 1966 Wisconsin-Madison Clifton E. Johnson, 1946 James A. Densmoor, 1950 Wisconsin-Platteville Ronald G. Hagen, 1976
Q&AGR
Q&AGR GENERAL COUNSEL JOHN TARPLEY IS WELL PREPARED TO HELP AGR, GREEK SYSTEM RESPOND TO CRITICAL ISSUES Brother John Tarpley, General Counsel of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, has forged a distinguished law career of national acclaim through the core values and skills acquired in 4-H and AGR. He also credits brothers in AGR with timely support over the years. Tarpley is a shareholder in the Nashville office of Lewis, Thomason, King, Krieg & Waldrop, P.C. He has been involved in complex litigation in the areas of tort, transportation, product liability, professional liability, commercial law, and a wide range of insurance-related matters in state and federal courts. Tarpley has also successfully defended trucking companies and their employees, both at trial and in the mediation of claims. Recently, he has devoted a significant portion of his practice to the mediation and arbitration of civil matters. Certified as a Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 mediator, he has also been inducted into the distinguished Tennessee Academy of Mediators. Tarpley was initiated into Alpha Kappa Chapter at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville where he earned degrees in agricultural economics and law. He is currently a member of the American Bar Association House of Delegates. He also is a former chair of the ABA Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section and a former member of the Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary. He is also a past chair of the ABA Journal, the world’s largest circulation general legal publication. Very active in the American Law Firm Association, Tarpley formerly served as president of both the Tennessee Bar Association and the Nashville Bar Foundation. How did 4-H help shape Your early years? I grew up as a 4-H kid. I had great 4-H mentors who took an incredible interest in me. I got to travel and to make many friends. I learned life skills and how to set goals and implement them. The skill that has served me most in life is how to present. From my very first 4-H
speech, I learned how to be convincing and persuasive. I served for two summers as a program assistant at the National 4-H Center in Washington DC. There I met AGR Hall of Fame Russ Mawby, a former Grand President, and Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz, as well as Congressman Jerry Litton.
John Tarpley (right) and Sen. Charles Grassley (alumnus initiate).
State your case for AGR as a lifetime experience My roommate at National 4-H Congress, an AGR, introduced me to the Fraternity. I loved my UT AGR experience. As a chapter, our brothers became “better men” together and grew as campus leaders. My first job was in communications for the Tennessee Farm Bureau. Many AGRs were on the leadership team. I enjoyed my work, but I had always wanted to go
“The fraternity system is in the hot seat on university campuses.”
to law school. After my first year I talked to a brother who was a well-respected lawyer in Knoxville. He hired me as a clerk for the next two years. That position
charted the trajectory for the rest of my professional life. I have been at my current firm for 30 years. I was the lead reviewer a year ago of the ABA Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary’s investigation into Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation. I testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, which was chaired by AGR Brother Senator Charles Grassley (IA).
What is your top goal as General Counsel of AGR? I have been presenting risk management topics to chapters during Fraternity events like Leadership Seminars for a few years. Risk management is a priority. The fraternity system is in the hot seat on university campuses because of the antics of some groups. Our goal is to protect our reputation through a keen understanding of the challenges. FA L L 2019
SICKLE & SHEAF 35
The Last Pass
Enjoying Tradition But Embracing Change (GUESS WHAT…YOU CAN HAVE BOTH!) By Rex Martin, CEO of Alpha Gamma Rho
I think fall is my favorite season of the year. I enjoy the crisp, cool nights that allow me to start an outdoor fire. Other favorite fall traditions include football games, tailgating with friends, hayrides, or going to the pumpkin patch. Our AGR collegiate brothers have started back to school. Back-to-school traditions for them include getting adjusted and reacquainted, preparing for a Founders Day or Parent’s Weekend, or competing in a homecoming contest among the Greek community.
These shared traditions have become something we look forward to and serve to remind us of what is important such as our common bonds and values. But over time, traditions can change whether it is inviting someone new to the gathering
“We need new ideas that continue to build on our existing traditions to attract a newer generation.” or coming up with a brand new idea. Can you enjoy existing traditions but still expand your boundaries by embracing change? For me, the answer is YES! Over time, these new ideas build on existing traditions to help make them an even stron36 SICKLE & SHEAF
FALL 2019
ger part of our legacy. At our Home Office, we have been going through a lot of change. We are evaluating many of our processes and systems to ensure we are providing the very best service to our brothers. For example, you might have noticed we have a new website with an updated look that is also mobile friendly. We have updated our branding and logo to reflect our past as well as our future. AGRconnect has new curriculum to include a mental health component — something that is very relevant for today’s collegians. At the summer Leadership Conference that included our elected and appointed National Leaders, a task force was formed to look at how we broaden our recruitment base for GenZ. With only 3.7% of all students majoring in ag and
ag-related sciences also being members of Alpha Gamma Rho, imagine what 5% would look like. We need new ideas that continue to build on our existing traditions to attract a newer generation. As a result, we have great partnership opportunities we are exploring with other organizations and companies, and new ideas on how to build local chapter excellence. Our leaders and staff are welcoming a stronger service-oriented ethos. We are here to serve you and “Make Better Men.” I am excited about this fall and enjoy all the traditions that make us Alpha Gamma Rho. I am also excited about all the changes that will make our shared AGR experience even better!
Our Roots
FROM ITS HUMBLE
beginnings, to the formation of what we know Alpha Gamma Rho to be today, the Fraternity’s initial members looked to establish ways to set themselves apart from other social fraternities. This original handdrawn, hand-lettered Coatof-Arms was submitted by a brother to the National Convention for consideration and was adopted by the delegates on February 11, 1916. Over the years, the image has received touch-ups and modifications, but the symbolism behind it never wavered. Inspiring loyalty, helpfulness and generosity toward one another, emphasizing education and discipline, and the ability to strive for success in all worthy endeavors are all part of the brand of Alpha Gamma Rho and continues to be demonstrated through AGR’s Coat-of-Arms. When the Fraternity embarked on its rebranding project, we wanted to recognize our past while propelling the Fraternity into the future. Through AGR’s new look and feel, all audiences can see a direct reflection of the original drawing through today’s imagery.
Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity 10101 N. Ambassador Drive Kansas City, MO 64153-1366
2020 Leadership Seminars Make Sure Your Chapter is Represented! Don’t miss our 2020 Leadership Seminars. Mark your calendars with these dates & locations!
St. Louis, MO February 7-8, 2020
AGR Leadership seminars, in conjunction with Sigma Alpha Sorority, provide both collegiate and alumni members with the ability to share experiences, inspire involvement, and create lasting impacts on their campuses and communities. Brothers have the opportunity to network with other young agricultural professionals from across the country and share in each other’s challenges and triumphs.
Reno, NV February 14-15, 2020 Atlanta, GA February 21-22, 2020 Baltimore, MD February 28-29, 2020
➼ Registration Coming Soon!