FROM THE FRATERNITY
Dear Brothers,
As we approach the beginning of our Centennial Year, I am filled with excitement for the future and pride in the accomplishments of the past. Reaching 100 years is a milestone that reflects the enduring commitment and passion of every member of Alpha Phi Omega throughout our history. As your National President, it is my honor to invite you to participate in this significant moment, celebrate our past achievements and look forward to a future of continued service and leadership.
The Centennial Year is a time for alumni to reconnect, reminisce and recommit to the principles that bind us as members of this fraternity. Your experiences and contributions have been the bedrock of our success, and your continued involvement is crucial as we embark on the next chapter of our story. There are many ways for alumni to participate in the Centennial Celebrations, and I encourage you to take advantage of all the festivities.
First and foremost, I invite you to join fellow members and participate in the 2024 National Service Week, November 3-9th, 2024. This year’s theme is “100 Years of Service: Celebrating APO’s History of Improving the World Through LFS.” National Service Week is a perfect opportunity for all members, past and present, to unite in a common cause and demonstrate the power of collective action. National Service Week has always been a cornerstone of our commitment to community service, and this year, it takes on even greater significance as we honor a century of impactful service projects and initiatives. Think back to your favorite service project, or the one that had the biggest impact on your campus or community.
Alumni can participate in National Service Week by organizing or joining service projects in their local communities. Whether it is a clean-up drive, a food bank initiative, or a mentorship program, every act of service contributes to the larger tapestry of APO’s legacy. Reach out to local chapters, collaborate with fellow alumni, and inspire current members with your dedication and passion for service. Your involvement amplifies the impact of these projects and serves as a living testament to the values that APO helped instill in you.
In addition to National Service Week, there will be a series of Centennial events and activities throughout the year, both virtually and in-person. These events are designed to celebrate our past, showcase our achievements and set the stage for future endeavors. I encourage you to participate in these events, share your stories and experiences, reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Your presence and participation are invaluable in fostering the sense of community and continuity that is at the heart of Alpha Phi Omega.
Also, consider contributing to the Centennial Capital Campaign, which supports our ongoing and future initiatives aimed at expanding our reach and enhancing our impact. Your generosity ensures that APO can continue to develop leaders, promote friendship and provide service opportunities for generations to come. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Alpha Phi Omega and for being an integral part of our journey. Together, let us celebrate 100 years of service and prepare for many more to come.
Yours in Leadership, Friendship and Service,
Melody A. Martin
Delta Alpha ’97
National President
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Robert J. London, FASAE, CAE
WRITER/EDITOR
Emma-Marie Holstine
MAGAZINE COORDINATOR
Madeline Mapes
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kelly Neis
NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Melody A. Martin Grand Rapids, OH
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
Disraeli W. Smith II, MBA, MPP Orlando, FL
NATIONAL TREASURER
Chris Meschuk Louisville, CO
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Hilton Hallock Anchorage, AK
Jennifer R. Headman, Ph. D. Sioux Falls, SD
Jéri L. Ogden, Ed. D. Hyattsville, MD
Candice Solomon-Strutz Savoy, IL
Bex Takacs-Britz
Grand Rapids, MI
Kenneth Anthony Tinkler, Esq., B.C.S. Tampa, FL
Kimberlee Castillo Yee Stockton, CA
IMMEDIATE PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Robert M. Coop, P.E. Westfield, IN
PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Fred C. Heismeyer III, Ed.D. Wichita, KS
NATIONAL LEGAL COUNSEL
Jennifer Znosko, J.D. St. Louis, MO
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Robert J. London, FASAE, CAE Kansas City, MO
COVER STORY
4 Torch Talk
Read about news from the Fraternity, board meeting minutes and updates regarding Fraternity operations.
Chapter Notes
Chapters share stories that showcase Leadership, Friendship and Service.
19 John Mack Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to the 2024 recipients of the John Mack Scholarship.
VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT
We create inclusive communities for a more peaceful world in which to make a life, by developing leaders, uniting members through friendship and rendering service to all.
10
2024 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree
Mark Allen Stratton challenges the Fall 2024 Pledge Class to reconnect with APO’s past.
8
Alex’s Lemonade Stand
Three brothers passion for service has translated into a career with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
10/25-27
Region H Conference, Region D Conference
10/31-11/03
PORQ Conference, Region J&K Conference
11/7-10
Region E, F & G Conference
11/3-9
National Service Week 12/16 1 year until the Centennial!
Get more out of your APO membership!
Through our partnership with New Benefits, APO members have access to countless resources.
Alpha Phi Omega is dedicated to supporting you throughout your lifelong journey with us. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the APO Benefits Portal for members.
We’ve partnered with New Benefits to bring you a range of non-insured services tailored to improve your overall health and lifestyle. These exciting new offerings include exclusive access to money-saving resources, health services and lifestyle enhancements. Whether you’re looking to save on everyday expenses, improve your health, or enjoy new leisure opportunities, these benefits are here to support you every step of the way.
Our goal is to provide you with the resources and support to thrive both within your Alpha Phi Omega community and beyond. We believe that true well-being is multifaceted and by offering these diverse benefits, we aim to help you excel in every aspect of your life.
Scan the QR code for more details on how you can take advantage of these innovative benefits. We’re excited for you to experience the positive impact they’ll bring!
Thank you for being an essential part of Alpha Phi Omega. Here’s to a future filled with growth, support and enhanced well-being!
https://bit.ly/apobenefitsportal
100 Years to Celebrate
With Alpha Phi Omega’s Centennial Celebration right around the corner, it’s time to celebrate! Check out all the ways you can be a part of this historic milestone!
100 YEARS OF SERVICE CHALLENGE
Chapters and alumni associations will be asked to honor a Century of APO with the 100 Years of Service Challenge! The service challenge will run until December 16, 2025.
CENTENNIAL ALUMNI RECEPTIONS
The Fraternity will be hosting Centennial Alumni Receptions at select locations. Alumni associations interested in co-hosting a reception can reach out to executive.director@apo.org. (Note: There will be criteria for selecting locations including a 75mile proximity to a donor base.)
FOUNDER’S DAY OF SERVICE
December 16, 2025, the Fraternity will call upon all members to participate in the Founder’s Day of Service. On this day, we will dedicate ourselves to creating a more peaceful world through service provided. Brothers across the United States and Canada will be invited to participate.
CENTENNIAL MEMBER RECOGNITION
The Fraternity will recognize our members’ contributions to the success of the past century through the Centennial Member Recognition Program. Members will be asked to meet and report minimum criteria in order to qualify for this recognition.
Those brothers named Centennial Members will be recognized during the 49th Biennial National Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
100 MEMBER CHAPTER CHALLENGE
APO chapters will compete in the 100 Member Challenge between fall 2024 and fall 2025. Elements of this challenge include growing membership to the 100-member mark, or increasing membership by 100 percent or 25 members, whichever is larger. The challenge will be scalable for chapters as small as five and as large as 500!
TOP 100 RECOGNITION
The best of the best in Leadership, Friendship and Service will be recognized in the Top 100 Centennial Members List. Think of it as the who’s who of APO! Members will apply to be considered for this listing, which will be shared online and with academic institutions, service partners and beyond.
SCAN FOR MORE
NATIONWIDE FRATERNITY NEWS
NOTES FROM THE JUNE BOARD MEETING
The following notes were taken at the Alpha Phi Omega Board of Directors meeting on June 28, 2024.
The Board approved the agenda and adopted a consent agenda which included:
• Approval of the February 17, 2024, meeting.
• The appointment of Emily Prauner, Epsilon ’08, as Service Program Chair.
• The appointment of Matthew Rom, Delta Beta ’04 as Leadership Development Program Chair.
• The Board approved the theme for the 2024-2025 National Service Week: 100 Years of Service: Celebrating APO’s History of Improving the World Through LFS.
STRATEGIC DISCUSSION
• The Board viewed and discussed a dashboard showing the current progress on the Fraternity’s Strategic Direction.
• The Board discussed current and future pilot programs for the Fraternity.
• The Board discussed the future of alumni programming and volunteer recruitment.
ACTION ITEMS
• The Board approved setting the insurance fee at $8 for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.
NOTES FROM THE AUGUST BOARD MEETING
The following notes were taken at the Alpha Phi Omega Board of Directors meeting on August 25, 2024: The Board approved the agenda and adopted a consent agenda which included:
• Minutes from the June 28, 2024, meeting PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS
• President Martin discussed the Chapter Officer’s Kickoff webinar, the Board vacancy and the end of the Fiscal Year.
STRATEGIC DISCUSSION
• The Board discussed the problem the Fraternity solves, when talking to new members. The discussion gathered ideas on how to align all parts of the Fraternity around
• The Board approved the 2024-2025 budget.
• The Board approved Brother Mark Stratton, Delta Xi ’94, as the 2024 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree.
• The Board approved amending the following in the Fraternity Operations and Policy Manual
• Category V - Membership & Extension, SubCategory 2, Policy II — National Pledging or New Member Education Standards
• Category VI – Risk Management, Policy III – The Standard Policy of Risk Management, Section 10. Education
DISCUSSION AND INFORMATION
The following items were discussed:
• Fall regional conference details
• Regional and program chairs updates on areas they support and their charges for 2024-2025
• New Member Benefits
• Reimagining Convention task force update
• Membership update
• Torchbearer Fund update
• Centennial Celebration planning update
• Leading the Way – Centennial Capital Campaign update
these ideas and concepts.
• The Board discussed what the Fraternity might look like in 2035, members will be bringing their ideas to the next meeting.
DISCUSSION AND INFORMATION ITEMS
• Discussed the competency matrix for serving on the APO endowment that is to be used by the Board Development Committee
• Brother Smith brought up the issue of unregistered alumni volunteers will work on this and bring it to the Board in October.
• A task force was created with volunteers to make a recommendation for a Volunteer of the Year recognition candidate.
• A fall semester update was provided.
APO Brothers Find Passion in Giving Back
Alpha Phi Omega members join the Fraternity in college for various reasons and continue their lifelong commitment to service after graduation – some even making service their career. Three brothers found their purpose within the mission of APO and have continued to pursue the Cardinal Principles in their careers. Brother Madeleine Lampert, Lambda Lambda ‘15; Brother Sara Moyer, Iota Omicron ‘12; and Brother Gigi Umstead, Mu Eta ‘19 are all professional staff of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), where they use the skills and passion they developed within Alpha Phi Omega, to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
After being a part of APO and finding ALSF, they found a way to follow the Cardinal Principles while giving back to those affected by cancer. “It definitely reaffirmed that I wanted to be involved in my community,” Brother Lampert said about being a member of APO.
All three brothers were involved with APO in college and have spent much of their lives dedicated to volunteer work and serving their communities.
BROTHER SARA MOYER, IOTA OMICRON ‘12
Brother Moyer was the new member chair at Iota Omicron Chapter at Gettysburg College, where she helped plan and lead events for the chapter. She is now the special events team manager for
“Being a part of both APO and ALSF made me not only a better worker, but a better person,” Moyer
Brother Moyer found fulfillment in the work she did with APO in college and realized that she wanted to turn that service into her career.
Moyer was convinced to join APO by a friend and member of APO, Brother Paul Detweiler, Iota Omicron ‘15. Paul was planning a 5k for charity when he was
Brothers Moyer, Umstead and Lampert (left to right) pose in front of one of Alex’s Lemonade Stands.
diagnosed with a brain tumor and tragically passed away before it came to fruition. Brother Moyer and her chapter carried out Brother Detweiler’s plans and started the annual Anything Is Paulsible 5k and the Paul Detweiler Memorial Scholarship in Paul’s memory.
Brother Moyer’s experiences with APO and living out brother Detweiler’s dream of impacting others through charity, illuminated how much rendering service meant to her and her future, and this inspired her career with ALSF.
BROTHER GIGI UMSTEAD, MU ETA ‘19
Brother Umstead understood how cancer affects a family through first-hand experience having fought a battle with childhood cancer herself. She said those experiences and the skills she gained through her time with Mu Eta Chapter at Albright College encouraged her to help other families and pursue a career in service.
As the special events manager with ALSF, Gigi gets to help with volunteering, fundraising, working with guest lists and leading functions for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
When asked about finding the job, Brother Umstead reflected on her experience in APO and how it so closely resembles what she is doing today ALSF. She said being able to help people in any way she can, really excites her about being a part of both organizations.
BROTHER MADELEINE LAMPERT, LAMBDA LAMBDA ‘15
Brother Madeleine Lampert is the community engagement coordinator for ALSF, and said that being able to help support families with cancer is a big motivator for her.
When she first joined Lambda Lambda Chapter at Shippensburg University, Brother Lampert said she felt like APO reaffirmed that she wanted to be involved in her community.
Lampert saw service being modeled by her parents from a young age, and this led her to doing her own volunteer work in high school. She knew when she went off to college that she wanted to stay involved in volunteer efforts and she found APO as a way to do just that.
APO and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation have teamed up to fight childhood cancer!
This partnership invites APO members to be a part of the community and to support the fight on childhood cancer.
Scan this QR code to learn more about this partnership and how to get involved.
https://bit.ly/3YeXCdj
In her role, Brother Lampert works on a variety of projects including Lemonade Days and the Million Mile. She said her work at ALSF reminds her of how she felt serving community members while being involved in APO.
The principles of Alpha Phi Omega have laid a steppingstone for these brothers to practice a lifetime of service. They recognize the importance of what ALSF is doing and they want other APO members to have a chance to get involved.
Understanding the important role APO members play in their communities, Brothers Lampert, Moyer and Umstead are helping to support, through their professional positions, a service partnership between APO and ALSF, including the launch of the APO Community Ambassadors program – a program that helps APO members get involved, spread the word and support the fight against childhood cancer through the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
“This means so much to us that we’re partnering with APO, and we’re excited to see what happens,” Brother Lampert said.
All three brothers have carried with them the experiences and principles that Alpha Phi Omega provided them with and use them in their careers. As they strive to fulfill the mission of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, they are also fulfilling the vision of Alpha Phi Omega and rendering a lifetime of service
STRATTON
Brother Mark Stratton’s introduction to Alpha Phi Omega in the fall of 1994 was not a conventional one. Mark pledged at the age of 26, a year after having returned to school following a three-year break.
He walked into his first-ever meeting of APO’s Delta Xi Chapter on the Ball State University campus and found himself in the throes of a dispute among students. He observed the faulty procedural practices they had in place, and it inspired Brother Stratton to reform the way process and procedures happened within Alpha Phi Omega.
Mark’s passion for procedures came naturally, he had a strong sense for justice and a system that did things fairly. His dedication to these values significantly shaped his journey with Alpha Phi Omega. His leadership and vision for organizations that governed more efficiently led to the reformation of APO’s organizational structure and the creation of the Student Advisory Committee. These acts allowed for much innovation and growth within the Fraternity and exemplify who Mark is a a leader.
“The ultimate goal is to find a plan that best meets the needs of Alpha Phi Omega, for today and for tomorrow,” Brother Stratton said about the restructure. “It is entirely possible to change how we do things, and to change what we do, without changing who we are.”
Brother Stratton’s time in Alpha Phi Omega is built upon the shoulders of other people, and that is why he so deeply values the impact of relationships with past, present and future members.
Mark shared a touching story of his late mentor, Past National President Jerry Schroeder, Mu Alpha ’66. At his first regional conference in 1995, Mark was overwhelmed when he received hard news that was very personal to him and found himself crying alone outside the banquet hall. Brother Jerry Schroeder was walking by when he saw Mark crying. He stopped, hugged and talked to him.
“Jerry saw me and asked, ‘Brother, are you okay?’” Mark recalled. “Even though we didn’t know each other well, he took a moment to comfort me.”
1. Brother Stratton addresses attendees at the 2014 National Convention. 2. (from left to right) Past Presidents Jack McKenzie, Stan Carpenter, Maggie Katz, John Ottenad, Mark Stratton and Jerry Schroeder pause for a photo at the re-chartering of Alpha Chapter. 3. Mark riding in the Tour de Cure to benefit the American Diabetes Association. 4. Mark (far right) poses with fellow Delta Xi brothers at formal. 5. Brother Stratton thanks members of the 2014 National Convention planning team for their hard work.
In his time of need, Brother Schroeder showed kindness and friendship when it would have been easy to give space. Brother Stratton said this interaction changed his trajectory in APO.
“There are brothers who do this workshop called Brotherhood 101, and they always ask, ‘When did you become a brother?’ Many people tell them at the date of their activation ceremony. My activation ceremony was in December of ’94, but that moment with Jerry in ’95 was when I became a brother in APO because that was the moment I got it.”
This story should inspire alumni and students to connect, as it demonstrates the potential for an impact beyond what they might imagine. Brother Stratton’s hope for the next 100 years and more of the Fraternity is to build upon the community it has created. The commitment to Alpha Phi Omega and its members is a lifetime one, built around Leadership, Friendship and Service.
The Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree is an individual who embodies Alpha Phi Omega’s Cardinal Principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service. Brother Stratton emulated all of these principles while an initiate in Alpha Phi Omega, and now in his service beyond.
Mark has held many offices within the Fraternity: National Vice President, Regional Director, National President and member of the Board to name a few. However, his motivation for staying involved with APO is not fueled by a desire to be recognized. He says that it’s not a part of the call for him at all.
“You don’t do what you do in APO so you can be the Pledge Class Namesake, you don’t do what you do in APO so you can get a national distinguished service award. You do what you do for APO because it’s worth doing; because it benefits the Fraternity and its members. Everything else takes care of itself” Brother Stratton said.
Mark said being named the 2024 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree is about more than his impact as
National President of the Fraternity. His contributions have transformed the organizational structure of Alpha Phi Omega and set a high standard for all to come. His dedication to the students and the longevity of the Fraternity is apparent in many ways.
“Mark exemplifies the true spirit of Alpha Phi Omega through his unwavering commitment to LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP and SERVICE.”
—
Vice President Disraeli Smith
“Under Brother Stratton’s leadership, the Fraternity experienced tremendous growth leading to the largest student membership in the Fraternity’s history,” conominators Brother Keith Roots, Alpha Delta Xi ’83, and Past National President Rob Coop, Tau Omicron ‘91, said when asked about Brother Stratton’s impact on APO.
“Mark exemplifies the true spirit of Alpha Phi Omega through his unwavering commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service,” Vice President Disraeli Smith, Kappa Delta ’07, chair of the selection committee, said, “His impact on APO has been nothing short of transformative, inspiring countless members to embrace these core values. As we honor him, we recognize his past contributions as well as his role in guiding the next generation of leaders. Mark’s dedication ensures that the Principles of APO will continue to thrive as we embark on the next 100 years of service and fellowship.”
Brother Stratton’s hope for the fall 2024 pledge or new member class is that they would take challenges and opportunities that come to them, in stride.
“If a challenge comes along, don’t be afraid. Assess that challenge, that opportunity. Is this one that I can do? If yes, then it doesn’t matter if you feel up to the task or not — do it,” Brother Stratton said.
He explained that he never intended to be National President or hold the offices he did. However, when it was asked of him, instead of turning away from the challenge, he embraced it and it brought him to where he is today.
Looking back at the past 100 years of Alpha Phi Omega, Brother Stratton reflected on what makes up the beloved fraternity. “Alpha Phi Omega is not built on the number of service projects completed or the dollars raised for service partners. It’s built on the work and heart of every member — past, present and future.”
“We do not get to where we are in the Fraternity without the work of all those who’ve come before.
6. Brother Stratton raising money for Life Bridge with members of the Student Advisory Committee in 2014. 7. Mark with his Delta Xi Little - Brother Tina Todd.
We all stand on the shoulders of other people,” Brother Stratton reflected. Mark recalled these words from Brother Schroeder: “We warm ourselves by fires that we did not build.” Mark added that we are here because of the success of the members of Alpha Phi Omega who came before us.
As Alpha Phi Omega comes upon its Centennial Year as a fraternity, members are encouraged to think about what they want the next 100 years to look like. Brother Stratton said his hope for the Fraternity over the next century is to be ever-growing and ever-inclusive. He believes that exposing APO to people who have different academic experiences, such as fully virtual or hybrid learning, will be crucial to APO’s success.
“We need to widen the net to accommodate the changing higher education environment so we can make membership available to students on those campuses,” Brother Stratton stated. He hopes APO will continually adapt to the evolving world around it. Since the foundation of Alpha Phi Omega is its members, may it persist in seeking individuals who want to share the commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service, and strive to make the practice of these principles accessible to all as Brother Stratton has.
A Challenge to the Fall Pledges and New Members
Welcome to Alpha Phi Omega! My name is Mark Stratton, and I am honored to have been selected as the Fall 2024 Pledge Class Namesake Honoree. As the Pledge Class Namesake, it falls to me to offer a challenge to all the members of the pledge or new member class — to every pledge or new member, in every chapter. In trying to find a suitable challenge, I wanted to do something that would be reflective of our first century of service, even as we begin preparations to celebrate that Centennial event and move into our second century of service.
Alpha Phi Omega has enjoyed great success in its first 100 years, growing from one chapter to more than 300, and from one nation to many nations. And in light of that fact, I want you to make an effort to try to re-connect us with our past.
Past National President Jerry Schroeder once said, “We warm ourselves by a fire that we did not build.” Jerry meant that others who came before us built that fire, they paved the way for the journey we are now on, and that we all stand on the shoulders of those who came before as we continue to make Alpha Phi Omega successful. With that in mind, here is my challenge to you:
Again, welcome to Alpha Phi Omega!
Fraternally, Mark
I want you to help re-connect us with our past through the alumni of your chapter. Reach out to at least five alumni from your chapter, whether that be through a hand-written note, postcard, phone call, invitation to a fellowship event, etc. Take time to introduce yourself to the alumni you choose, re-introduce the chapter to them, ask them about their experiences in APO, find out if they want to stay updated on the chapter and its activities, and try to reinforce the belief that Alpha Phi Omega is a lifetime commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service. We live in a world where we are increasingly disconnected from one another. We are in a society where divisions in political and ideological thought drive us apart. Alpha Phi Omega is a force for good that can help bring us back together, and this challenge is just a small step to try to foster that among our chapter members and alumni. Thank you in advance for all the success you are going to have with this challenge! I believe in you and wish you all the best!
CHAPTER NOTES
REGION C
University of Oklahoma; Delta Beta
Delta Beta Chapter went on a relaxing spring retreat to Lake Thunderbird in Norman, Oklahoma.
Brothers got the opportunity to bond with one another while they enjoyed campfires and nature. Older brothers got to know newer members before the school year came to a close.
REGION D
University of North Texas; Gamma Rho
Gamma Rho Chapter participated in The Big Event, a nationally recognized day of service celebrated at the University. The chapter helped at Aunt Sue’s Barn, a local flower farm. They worked to beautify the space by pulling weeds and laying mulch.
REGION H
Ohio Lancaster University; Alpha Eta Rho
Alpha Eta Rho Chapter held a lemonade stand fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. The chapter raised $150 for childhood cancer research, which was $50 over their original goal.
REGION E
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities; Gamma Psi
Gamma Psi Chapter volunteered at Feed My Starving Children. The brothers packed 97 boxes, totaling 20,952 meals. The chapter’s efforts will help to feed 57 children a day for an entire year.
See what great LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP and SERVICE projects chapters have showcased to inspire others.
REGION M
Norfolk State University; Phi Mu Phi Mu Chapter helped the class of ‘28 move in. The chapter shared their excitement to support future generations of students and leaders.
REGION L
Clemson University; Gamma Lambda
Gamma Lambda Chapter completed a beautification project for Clemson Downs, a retirement and independent living home in Clemson, South Carolina. The chapter laid mulch and cleaned up the flower gardens around the homes. “Being able to do a small act of kindness for those who have done so much throughout their years was such an amazing experience,” Brother Nicole Reich ‘24 said.
REGION J
Clayton State University; Alpha Eta Zeta Alpha Eta Zeta Chapter helped pack bags of school supplies for children in their community. The chapter had a great time packing notebooks, pencils, pens and more while spending time with their fellow APO brothers.
REGION P
Rutgers University; Delta Rho Delta Rho Chapter participated in the Dance Marathon to raise funds for the Embrace Kids Foundation. The chapter partnered with a child named Cris, an honorary brother, who they danced and played games with.
Leading the Way
If you have not yet heard, we have kicked off our Centennial Campaign - Leading the Way. This campaign is to prepare APO members and the Fraternity for our second century by providing the resources to foster an ever-growing, inclusive organization, help members achieve their leadership potential and improve communities to which we belong.
The Leading the Way Campaign will enable us to make a lasting impact through the Four Pillars of Support:
• APO Leadership Institute will bring our Cardinal Principles to high schools, emphasizing urban areas and connecting existing chapters with high schools and demonstrate what leadership in service can do for them and their community.
• The Student Conference Fund will enable more students to participate in APO’s regional, sectional and national conferences, supporting chapter growth through improved membership programming.
• The Leadership Programming Endowment will provide funds to create an endowment that when fully funded, will generate $125,000 a year for leadership programming. This will support chapters and members with leadership development programs without costs to members or the Fraternity.
• The Torchbearer Fund will provide revenue for increased chapter support, member support and leadership programs as well regular operations for the National Fraternity.
Thank you to our donors for their dedication to Alpha Phi Omega and for considering supporting our Centennial Campaign! As we progress with this Campaign, we’ll keep you informed of updates and exciting developments as we work together to strengthen our Fraternity for the next 100 years! If you want to know more about the campaign, email executive.director@apo.org.
John Mack Scholarship Recipients
The John Mack Scholarship award honors Alpha Phi Omega members who demonstrate exceptional leadership in extracurricular activities that benefit charitable organizations. Thanks to Brother John Mack’s lasting legacy and his generous support, this scholarship provides vital funds to assist recipients with their educational expenses and support their continued journey of service.
Your contribution to Alpha Phi Omega plays a crucial role in empowering these students to achieve their goals and make a meaningful impact. We are excited to announce this year’s recipients and celebrate their achievements. Thank you for being an essential part of their success and continuing the tradition of giving and service.
Congratulations to our scholarship awardees!
Arman Raghian, Sigma Sigma, ‘23
Brandi Harmon, Mu Xi, ‘22
Cassidy Tolbert, Omega Psi, ‘22
Daisy A. Mount, Delta, ‘18
Francisco Lacson, Theta Theta, ‘22
Hannah C. Kroetz, Nu Rho, ‘21
Hattie R. Hodges, Alpha Zeta Mu, ‘22
Heather Hansen Beta Beta, ‘20
Jordan Herman, Delta Alpha, ‘23
Kaitlin M. Meyers, Alpha Gamma Delta, ‘22
Katilin Molloy, Nu Rho, ‘23
Katilyn M. Keith, Lambda Omicron, ‘21
Katie Simpson, Alpha, ‘21
Lindsey G. Gertz, Zeta Gamma, ‘22
Micaela J. Kahnis, Alpha Gamma Delta, ‘23
Nolan P. Richards, Omicron Phi, ‘23
Olivia C. Spencer, Gamma Lambda, ‘21
Prerana Prabhushankar, Iota Lambda, ‘22
Rachel Oh, Kappa Mu, ‘22
Rafael R. Cenzano, Epsilon Zeta, ‘21
Sage Biggers, Epsilon Pi, ‘21
Sina Naeemi, Alpha Delta Iota, ‘20
Sydni N. Thomas, Alpha Gamma, ‘21
Taryn Sandei, Alpha Epsilon Beta, ‘20
Valery Rivera Figueroa, Upsilon Mu, ‘18
Zachary Kontenakos, Gamma Lambda, ‘18
Zoe Sweet, Alpha Beta Delta, ‘21
Follow APO online for the latest news!
Onward and Upward
A walk down memory lane: October 1954 Issue of the T&T
What was happening in APO?
• Members were getting ready for the 1954 National Convention in Milwaukee, WI.
• APO was growing! This issue announced the chartering of Lambda Iota Chapter at the University of New Mexico and Lambda Theta Chapter at Columbia College!
Who’s on the cover?
“Onward and Upward” was painted for APO by renowned artist Remington Schuyler, an advisor to Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Missouri Valley College. The painting depicts “a typical APO brother on the job of service to his fellow men” and, to this day, is on display at the APO National Office.
1441 E. 104th St., Ste. 105 Kansas City, MO 64131
