Leaving a Legacy
INSIDE:
CHAPTERS OF EXCELLENCE I 7
LEAVING A LEGACY I 10
CELEBRATING THE CENTENNIAL I 14
FROM THE FRATERNITY
Dear Brothers,
As we kick off a year celebrating the past and future of Alpha Phi Omega, I find myself reflecting on a theme that I believe resonates deeply with each one of us: our legacy. Every person who joins our Fraternity leaves a mark, shaping our organization in unique and meaningful ways. Whether you’re a new member just starting your journey or a seasoned alumnus, you are part of something much larger than yourself—an ever-growing brotherhood that binds us across generations.
Our legacy is not about one moment or grand gesture; it’s about the small acts of Leadership, Friendship and Service that collectively define who we are and who we strive to become. Each meeting we attend, every service project we take on, every friendship we build and each challenge we overcome contributes to the legacy of Alpha Phi Omega. We often speak of our mission to develop leaders though service, but what makes that mission truly impactful is our ability to inspire others through our actions. Every time we step up to lead, mentor or lend a helping hand, we are writing a part of the story of this fraternity.
Over the next year, I encourage each of you to think about the mark you want to leave on Alpha Phi Omega. Perhaps you want to help start a new chapter or alumni association, help develop the leadership skills of your fellow members or have a meaningful impact in your community through your willingness to serve outside of the Fraternity. Your contributions, no matter the size, have a ripple effect that extends far beyond your campus community. Just as we benefit from the hard work of those who came before us, future generations of Alpha Phi Omega members will stand on the foundation we are building together today.
Creating a legacy isn’t always easy. It requires dedication, a commitment to growth, and sometimes, a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. However, as brothers, we don’t walk this path alone. Each of us has the strength of our shared values and the support of our fellow members to lean on. Together, we can achieve incredible things.
As we look forward to the Centennial milestone, let’s remember that the impact we leave behind is about more than what happens this week or this year. It’s about the friendships we create, the lives we touch and the example we set. By working together, supporting one another and staying true to the Cardinal Principles of Alpha Phi Omega, we are leaving a legacy within our chapters and creating positive change in the world around us.
Thank you all for being part of this journey and for everything you do to make Alpha Phi Omega stronger and more inspiring each day. Here’s to a year of purpose, passion and legacy.
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
DEPARTMENTS
10
4
8
16
Torch Talk
Read about news from the Fraternity board meeting minutes and updates regarding Fraternity operations.
Financial Update
Explore an overview of Alpha Phi Omega’s financial summary for Fiscal Year 2023-2024.
Chapter Notes
Take a look at what Leadership, Friendship and Service chapters have been participating in.
WINTER 2024 • VOLUME 100 • NUMBER 4
Leaving a Legacy: Brother Susan Meyer
Read about the legacy Susan Meyer left in both APO and her
FEATURE
14
One Hundred Years of Celebration and One Hundred Years for the Future
Get ready to celebrate our Centennial Year in 2025!
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.
NATIONWIDE FRATERNITY NEWS
NOTES FROM THE OCTOBER BOARD MEETING
The following notes were taken at the Alpha Phi Omega Board of Directors meeting on October 25, 2024:
The Board approved the agenda and adopted a consent agenda which included:
• Minutes from the August 25, 2024, meeting
o Presidential appointments of Terry Aufermann, Scouting and Youth Services
o The granting of a charter to Florida Southwestern State College
PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS
• President Martin welcomed the guests and reviewed the agenda for the day.
INVESTMENT PRESENTATION
• Max Bull, partner of the Fowler Bull team of Morgan Stanley, presented an overview of the Fraternity’s investments.
STRATEGIC DISCUSSION
• President Martin provided an overview of the Fraternity’s strategic direction.
• The Board participated in a back-casting exercise, where board members worked on the Fraternity’s preferred future in 2035.
ACTION ITEMS
• Brother Meschuk led a discussion on reimagining the Fraternity’s Convention. This report was accepted, and Brother Meschuk was asked to lead the implementation task force and report back at the next meeting.
• The Board unanimously approved taking action against the Pi Zeta Chapter at Tuskegee University for violating the Fraternity’s Risk Management Policies.
• The Board authorized the Executive Director to spend up to $18,000 on a comprehensive technology audit.
• Brother Brandon Douglas was named Volunteer of the Year.
• The Board authorized the Executive Director on behalf of the Board of Directors to grant honorary membership when requested and after a thorough investigation and substantiation to those alumni who do not have membership records on file.
• The Board asked the Executive Director to investigate making a possible change to the Fraternity’s Articles of Incorporation and report back.
DISCUSSION AND INFORMATION ITEMS
• Updates were approved on the following items: regional realignment, fall membership reporting, Board and Endowment candidate competencies, Leading the Way Capital Campaign and overall operations.
Legacy
Since 1925, Alpha Phi Omega has exemplified a commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service. Every chapter has built APO’s legacy and worked toward creating a more peaceful world in which to make a life. As an organization, Alpha Phi Omega has completed over 60 million hours of service and has developed more than 525,000 community leaders in the last 99 years.
As we celebrate the upcoming Centennial, we want to recognize the legacies that chapters of Alpha Phi Omega have left on their campuses. Maintaining a charter takes effort; however, the enduring
commitment of our members is exemplified by the fact that 166 chapters have successfully upheld their original charters and more than half of these boast a legacy of more than 50 years! The collaboration of students, volunteers and alumni is what molds these legacies. As our Fraternity looks forward to the next 100 years of Leadership, Friendship and Service, chapters should gain inspiration from these legacies and aim to uphold their current charter. By building on this foundation, chapters can create lasting partnerships with their communities, develop innovative service projects and nurture future leaders who will carry APO’s mission into the next century.
These chapters will have held their original charter for 50 years or longer by 2025:
50-60 YEARS:
• Psi Omega at University of Central Florida
• Chi Sigma at Allegheny College
• Chi Nu at Grambling State University
• Phi Xi at Austin College
• Tau Lambda at the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
• Sigma Eta at Villanova University
• Pi Rho at Rider University
• Pi Iota at Wofford College
• Omicron Upsilon at West Chester University of Pennsylvania
61-70 YEARS:
• Omicron Iota at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
• Omicron Zeta at California State University, East Bay
• Xi Rho at SUNY Oneonta
• Xi Lambda at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
• Xi Omicron at Tarleton State University
• Xi Zeta at Rochester Institute or Technology
• Xi Delta at Texas A&M University
• Xi Alpha at Muhlenberg College
• Nu Rho at the College of William & Mary
• Nu Delta at Lebanon Valley College
• Mu Tau at West Virginia University Institute of Technology
• Mu Omicron at Clarkson University
• Mu Xi at High Point University
• Mu Mu at Oglethorpe University
• Mu Eta at Albright College
• Mu Alpha at Georgetown University
• Lambda Phi at Eastern Michigan University
• Lambda Rho at Augustana College
• Lambda Omicron at West Virginia University
• Lambda Nu at Duke University
71-80 YEARS:
• Delta Theta at the University of Louisville
• Delta Sigma at the University of Connecticut
• Delta Xi at Ball State University
• Delta Rho at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
• Epsilon Zeta at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
• Epsilon Mu at the University of Maryland, College Park
• Epsilon Lambda at Michigan Technological University
• Epsilon Xi at Colorado State University
• Zeta Gamma at Valparaiso University
• Zeta Delta at Miami University
• Zeta Theta at Drexel University
• Zeta Kappa at Bowling Green State University
• Zeta Sigma at the University of Delaware
• Zeta Beta at Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
• Eta Sigma at Illinois College
• Eta Upsilon at Marshall University
• Eta Chi at Hardin-Simmons University
• Theta Epsilon at Illinois State University
• Theta Mu at Vanderbilt University
• Iota Kappa at Bucknell University
• Iota Lambda at North Carolina State University
• Iota Mu at the University of South Carolina at Columbia
• Iota Omicron at Gettysburg College
• Iota Rho at Florida State University
• Iota Tau at Saint Olaf College
• Iota Phi at the University of California at Davis
• Kappa Delta at Florida A&M University
• Kappa Theta at Wake Forest University
• Kappa Omicron at the University of Massachusetts
81-90 YEARS:
• Alpha Rho at the University of Texas at Austin
• Alpha Omicron at Southern Methodist University
• Alpha Tau at Butler University
• Alpha Omega at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Beta Beta at Michigan State University
• Beta Eta at the University of Missouri-Columbia
• Beta Rho at the University of Arkansas
• Beta Sigma at Texas Tech University
• Beta Psi at Southeast Missouri State University
• Gamma Gamma at the University of California at Berkeley
• Gamma Zeta at Georgia Institute of Technology
• Gamma Lambda at Clemson University
• Gamma Sigma at the University of Chicago
• Gamma Pi at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor
• Gamma Xi at Rockhurst University
• Gamma Theta at the University of Colorado at Boulder
• Gamma Rho at the University of North Texas
• Delta Beta at the University of Oklahoma
• Delta Gamma at Ohio University
91-98 YEARS:
• Gamma at Cornell University
• Delta at Auburn University
• Epsilon at Truman State University
• Eta at Northern Illinois University
• Theta at the University of Virginia
• Kappa at Carnegie Mellon University
• Pi at Kansas State University
• Rho at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Tau at the University of Florida
• Phi at Syracuse University
• Alpha Alpha at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• Alpha Gamma at Purdue University
• Alpha Beta at Pennsylvania State University
• Alpha Epsilon at Louisiana State University
• Alpha Iota at The Ohio State University
The Strength in Leadership, Friendship and Service
The Cardinal Principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service are the heart of Alpha Phi Omega, driving its members’ mission since its founding in 1925. Derived from the Boy Scouts, these principles were created to unite members and provide direction.
Founded on the Scout Oath, APO has transformed student lives and strengthened communities for nearly a century. During World War II, the Fraternity embraced these principles in unique ways. As Past National President H. Roe Bartle said, “The world needs men who will build for the future of all mankind, who will serve democracy’s need whether that need be in war or in peace.”
for affected families. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, members found creative ways to continue serving their communities including Alpha Omicron Chapter at Southern Methodist University who conducted outdoor cleanup events to beautify their campus.
Founded on the Scout Oath, APO has transformed student lives and strengthened communties for nearly a century.
Under Bartle’s leadership, the Fraternity grew from roughly 20 chapters to more than 100 nationwide, reaching 100,000 members by the 1950s. A pivotal moment came in 1976 when the organization became co-ed after voting at the National Convention, opening doors to new perspectives and volunteers.
Brother Pat Burke, who was the Executive Director from 1985 to 2002 and led the Fraternity during this transition, noted how this change helped APO grow and diversify.
The Fraternity’s commitment to service was powerfully demonstrated during critical moments in history. On September 11, 2001, APO chapters nationwide united to support disaster relief, gathering supplies and raising funds
Burke had a motto of “TEAM” - “The Enthusiastic Active Member” - which embodied the spirit of APO. Throughout challenging times, members have consistently put Leadership, Friendship and Service first, even when it seemed nearly impossible.
Today, the Cardinal Principles remain a guiding light. As National Service Program Chair Emily Prauner, Epsilon ’08, stated, “ For nearly 100 years, Leadership, Friendship and Service have transformed student lives, uplifted campus efforts, and strengthened communities.” The Fraternity continues to evolve, focusing on becoming more inclusive while helping members reach their leadership potential and improve their communities.
The Cardinal Principles are more than just words—they are a commitment to making a positive difference, a legacy that continues to inspire generations of APO members.
Congratulations!
Leaving a legacy as a chapter is equal in significance to the personal legacies we cultivate. It is meaningful that chapters aspire to the highest standards of excellence in every endeavor. A distinguished pathway to this excellence is through the Pledge Program of Excellence (PPOE) and the Chapter of Excellence (COE) awards.
The COE and PPOE awards are given to chapters whose Leadership, Friendship and Service (LFS) programs resonate clearly with the mission and vision of Alpha Phi Omega. These programs will foster growth and retention while also ensuring the stability and vibrancy of the chapter. They also create a positive and educational
CHAPTER OF EXCELLENCE
Blue
Delta Delta at Saint Louis University
Alpha Eta Zeta at Clayton State University
Alpha Eta Nu at Furman University
Gold
Alpha Gamma at Purdue University
Tau Lambda at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Xi Upsilon at University of Mount Union
Alpha Epsilon Lambda at McDaniel College
Diamond
Alpha Beta Psi at Roanoke College
Rho Rho at University of California at Irvine
Alpha Phi at Washington University
Alpha Alpha at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Sigma Sigma at University of Illinois Chicago
Beta Beta at Michigan State University
Delta Kappa at Emory University
Omega Psi at Jackson State University
Alpha Beta Omega at Old Dominion University
Alpha Beta Delta at Widener University
Alpha Delta Phi at Seton Hall University
Sigma Eta at Villanova University
environment for prospective and new members, allowing them to deepen their understanding of APO and inspiring them to participate in LFS.
Both the COE and PPOE awards feature three tiers of achievement: Blue, Gold and Diamond. Each tier requires the fulfillment of specific criteria, reflecting the dedication and commitment of the chapter to uphold the values of excellence and legacy. By striving for these awards, chapters are enhancing their own standings and contributions to the enduring legacy of Alpha Phi Omega.
Join us in honoring this year’s recipients!
Theta Alpha at Stevens Institute of Technology
Zeta Sigma at University of Delaware
Epsilon Zeta at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Alpha Theta Eta at Northeastern University
PLEDGE PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE
Blue
Alpha Eta Nu at Furman University
Epsilon Eta at University of West Georgia
Gold
Alpha Theta Eta at Northeastern University
Omega Psi at Jackson State University
Diamond
Alpha Alpha at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Alpha Alpha Delta at Salisbury University
Alpha Beta Delta at Widener University
Alpha Beta Nu at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
Alpha Beta Omega at Old Dominion University
Alpha Beta Psi at Roanoke College
Alpha Delta Mu at Ramapo College of New Jersey
Alpha Delta Phi at Seton Hall University
Alpha Delta Xi at Christopher
Newport University
Alpha Eta Lambda at Eureka College
Alpha Eta Pi at St. John’s University
Alpha Eta Zeta at Clayton State University
Alpha Gamma at Purdue University
Alpha Phi at Washington University
Alpha Theta Mu at Kennesaw State University
Delta Delta at Saint Louis University
Delta Kappa at Emory University
Delta Lambda at Coe College
Delta Sigma at University of Connecticut
Epsilon Lambda at Michigan
Technological University
Gamma Lambda at Clemson University
Iota Tau at Saint Olaf College
Lambda Delta at New Jersey Institute of Technology
Mu at Indiana University
Phi Xi at Austin College
Rho Rho at University of California at Irvine
Sigma Eta at Villanova University
Sigma Sigma at University of Illinois Chicago
Tau Lambda at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Theta Alpha at Stevens Institute of Technology
Xi Phi at University of New Haven
Xi Rho at SUNY Oneonta
Xi Upsilon at University of Mount Union
Zeta Sigma at University of Delaware
FISCAL YEAR 2023-24
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The Fraternity experienced a mixed financial picture during the past fiscal year. While revenues remained relatively stable, increased operating expenses and a decline in strategic partnership funding resulted in a 10 percent deficit prior to a bequest donated to the Fraternity. This donation helped the Fraternity finish the year in the black. Despite a decline in membership numbers, the Fraternity continued to provide leadership learning experiences for members and alumni, as in past years. Additionally, to further ensure the organization can continue to provide value to its members and achieve its goals, a fee increase was approved by the 2023 National Convention. Strong leadership efforts by the executive team, the Board and generous donations from our donors provided the path necessary to maintain and grow Fraternity assets.
While membership revenue was more than $65,000 below what was anticipated, expenses were tightly managed and came in almost $90,000 below budget. The management of the budget along with an estate gift allowed the Fraternity to grow its net assets in the last fiscal year.
The Fraternity’s fundraising efforts through the Torchbearer Fund were 5 percent higher compared to the previous fiscal year, with $234,520 in revenues. Investment earnings and realized investment gains provided the Fraternity with revenues of about $155,664. Affinity and royalty income contributed more than $105,149 to the Fraternity’s bottom line.
The Fraternity awarded 52 John Mack Scholarships to deserving student applicants, with the highest award being $6,000. Twenty-five Youth Service Grants, ranging
from $150 to $500 each, were provided to chapters in support of their efforts to serve their communities and campuses. All the grants provided by APO positively impact a chapter’s ability to find new and innovative ways of continuing their education and providing service to communities.
The continued success of the Fraternity rests with each of you – every alumnus, every donor and every volunteer. Thank you for all that you do on behalf of Alpha Phi Omega.
Fraternally, Chris Meschuk National Treasurer
Alpha Phi Omega FY 2024 MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS (Aug. 1, 2023 - July 2024) Pledges: 5,761 Initiates: 4,880 AAMD: 12,478
Statement of Revenues, Expenses & Changes in Fund Balances
Leaving a Legacy: Brother Susan Meyer
The true measure of a life well lived is not in the possessions that we accumulate, but the enduring legacy we leave behind for future generations. Brother Susan Meyer is someone who understood that, and that belief was clearly shown in the legacy she left.
Brother Susan Meyer began her journey with Alpha Phi Omega in 1986, as an initiate of Gamma Pi Chapter at the University of Michigan. From the beginning of her time in APO, she displayed strong leadership qualities, which led her to become vice president and then chapter president. During her time in these roles, she set high standards for other members to follow. However, Brother Meyer’s time and commitment to APO did not end when she graduated. In 2007, she took on the role of Endowment Trustee which she held until her passing in June of 2023. As an Endowment Trustee member, she served as the vice chair from 2012 to 2016 and then assumed the position of chair from 2016 to 2018.
…Brother Meyer exemplified a significant milestone in her legacy. Her leadership highlighted her commitment to the Fraternity and played a crucial role in fostering deversity and creating a governing boday more representative of APO’s demographic.
“Her expertise in the field of accounting and risk management were invaluable in supervision of the Endowment, which increased significantly in size and provided hundreds of thousands of dollars for scholarships, leadership development programs, and grants to support service projects and chapters during her years of service,” said Brother Paul Louie, Zeta Beta ’86.
“Once you start giving back, it just becomes part of your DNA.”
– Brother Meyer
As the Endowment Chair, Brother Meyer exemplified a significant milestone in her legacy. Her leadership highlighted her commitment to the Fraternity and played a crucial role in fostering diversity and creating a governing body more representative of APO’s demographic.
Meyer’s legacy extends far beyond her leadership roles within APO. Alongside serving as an Endowment Trustee, Susan Meyer served on the board for the San Francisco Community Food Bank and was a large financial and overall supporter of her alma mater, the University of Michigan, specifically the Ross Business School. Her generosity helps fund multiple scholarships and initiatives at the university. When asked why she so generously donated, Brother Meyer said “Once you start giving back, it just becomes part of your DNA.” In 2021, Brother Meyer was awarded the National Distinguished Service
Key award. This award recognizes brothers for outstanding service to the Fraternity and beyond, which she exceeded. Her heart for service is captured in the way she lived life every day, and the lives around her that she touched.
Her impact is twofold, encompassing both her dedicated service and her generous financial contributions. Susan Meyer bequeathed a significant gift to the Torchbearer fund upon her passing. This generous gift has created many avenues for APO to further develop leaders and opportunities for the Fraternity. Brother Meyer’s gift has significantly impacted programs such as the Service Innovation Grant that she created. She provided the initial contribution for this grant through the Leaders in Service Capital Campaign. The Service Innovation Grant is a program that supports active chapters in development and celebration of their innovative service ideas. This grant provides funding for new service project ideas that can be shared with other chapters. Brother Meyer’s legacy has been and will be shown in the impact that the chapter’s services will have on its community.
Her impact is twofold, encompassing both her dedicated service and her generous financial contributions.
Her bequest will also help APO invest in services that enable maximum fundraising potential and achieve APO’s mission more effectively. Brother Meyer’s contributions as a member and
It is difficult to fully describe the impact that Brother Meyer’s financial contributions will have on the Fraternity. Susan Meyer’s legacy is a testament to the power of dedicated service, visionary leadership and generous support.
chair of the trust included a wide knowledge of accounting and risk management, and her leadership of the trust led to a significant increase in the value of the Endowment allowing for more scholarships and grants to be awarded every year.
It is difficult to fully describe the impact that Brother Meyer’s financial contributions will have on the Fraternity. Susan Meyer’s legacy is a testament to the power of dedicated service, visionary leadership and generous support. Brother Meyer was a leader, role model and friend. Her memory and legacy will inspire generations of Alpha Phi Omega to come.
One Hundred Years of Alpha Phi Omega: Celebrating the Past, Building the Future
Not all organizations can say they made it to 100 years. The road to a century is a long and winding one that is filled with obstacles, decisions and dedication. Alpha Phi Omega is proud of its brothers’ ability to clear those obstacles with skill, make decisions that advance the Fraternity and themselves, and remain dedicated to service over this past century.
It is these abilities and more that make APO members stand out among others. That is why every member is forging a path to a more peaceful world in which to make a life. It is also because of the brothers that came before us that we can lead the way.
During Brother H. Roe Bartle’s time as National President, between 1931 and 1946, the Fraternity gained 73 chapters across the United States. Prior to Brother Bartle’s Presidency, the Fraternity had only 17 chapters since its creation in Pennsylvania.
Over the course of the Fraternity’s existence, more than 525,000 members have gone on to become community leaders.
Our brothers’ dedication to service is shown through tireless efforts. It is represented by the nearly 100 years of members totaling millions of hours of service in a year. Sometimes those service efforts are something small, such as a food drive on campus, but sometimes they are big things, such as the March on Washington for AIDS Research that many brothers in the late 1980s and early 1990s participated in.
APO members even continued to serve through immense obstacles, like the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Brothers from Psi Sigma chapter at Albany State University wore their masks while helping clean residence halls on campus, donating toys and essential items to Open Arms, Inc. of Albany and more.
Alpha Gamma Phi Chapter at Northern Kentucky University participated in socially distanced chapter meetings, made dog toys for shelter dogs and beautifying campus by cleaning up the flower gardens.
Brothers found a way to make service possible at a time when it seemed like anything outside of home was impossible.
It is the decisions of these members that have paved the path for today’s members. It is now their turn to lead the way.
Alpha Phi Omega wants to support members in their journey to becoming the leaders of tomorrow. That is why the National Fraternity is celebrating its Centennial with the Leading the Way Capital Campaign. This campaign will provide top-notch programming that will support current members and show others what APO truly is about.
This Centennial Capital Campaign will provide members the opportunity to grow their leadership skills through the APO Leadership Institute. This Institute will take APO to urban high schools where brothers can work on their leadership while educating young men and women on Leadership, Friendship and Service.
The Campaign will also support members who want to attend regional and sectional events, The Student Conference Fund will give members the opportunity to grow their skills, learn about what other chapters are doing for service projects and more.
The Leadership Programming Endowment will provide $125,000 for leadership programming every year once it is fully funded. APO’s focus on leadership is the pinnacle for its members and we want to provide them with the best leadership training the Fraternity has to offer.
Lastly, the Torchbearer Fund supports the Fraternity’s dayto-day needs, such as chapter support, member services, communications and more.
Alpha Phi Omega has had great success creating more 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 over the last century.
It is because of those who came before us, that we are able to lead the way for future APO members and the world. Alpha Phi Omega faces the unknown future with a smile and a twinkle of determination to continue creating a better world for all through Leadership, Friendship and Service.
CHAPTER NOTES
REGION A
University of San Francisco (Alpha Epsilon Nu)
Alpha Epsilon Nu Chapter at the University of San Francisco held its Big Little reveal for members. Bigs and Littles had creative reveals with different themes for each pair, making it a fun atmosphere.
REGION B
Arizona State University (Eta Eta)
Eta Eta Chapter at Arizona State University lent a hand at St. Vincent de Paul’s Garden doing physical labor jobs such as moving dirt and planting. St. Vincent de Paul’s Garden is an urban farm that provides food to thousands of food-insecure, low-income and unhoused populations.
REGION I
University of Louisville (Delta Theta)
Delta Theta Chapter at the University of Louisville made tie-the-knot blankets for Little Orphans Kitten Rescue. The chapter members had fun coming together to craft these blankets for the kittens to keep them warm and play on.
REGION M
Norfolk State University (Phi Mu)
Phi Mu Chapter at Norfolk State University participated in the Suicide Prevention Walk at Mount Trashmore. The chapter joined community members in supporting those who are affected by suicide and to raise awareness for mental health.
See what great LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP and SERVICE projects chapters have showcased to inspire others through Instagram.
REGION Q
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Epsilon Zeta)
Epsilon Zeta Chapter at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute welcomed its largest class since the pandemic with 20 new members. Help us to congratulate Epsilon Zeta Chapter in their accomplishments!
REGION R
Bentley University (Alpha Theta Zeta)
Brothers from Alpha Theta Zeta Chapter at Bentley University visited Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, and helped clean up the stadium. The group, calling themselves the Green Team, also stayed and watched a game between the Red Sox and White Sox.
REGION K
University of Puerto Rico/Maya (Upsilon Mu)
Brothers of Upsilon Mu Chapter at the University of Puerto Rico/Maya for the last three years, have taken care of the university mascot, a beloved bulldog named Tarzan. The chapter cares for Tarzan with the support from the CAAM Alumni Association and Foundation to make sure Tarzan is happy and healthy for all university events.
REGION N
The George Washington University (Theta Chi)
In the month of September alone, the Theta Chi Chapter at The George Washington University completed 355 hours of service! This achievement reflects their commitment to community engagement and service, showcasing APO’s Cardinal Principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service. Throughout this semester, APO brothers have teamed up with various service organizations, making a difference in the community in many ways.
Legacy of Leadership
Honoring our past, shaping our future
The Centennial Campaign – Leading the Way is the essence of legacy. The Pericles quote illustrates honoring our legacy while inspiring us to create a lasting impact that extends far beyond physical monuments. It reflects Alpha Phi Omega’s dedication to weaving our Cardinal Principles – Leadership, Friendship and Service into our communities for future generations.
In a time of too many unknowns and uncertainty in the ever-evolving realm of higher education in the post-pandemic era, followed many disruptions. Specifically, the declining enrollment numbers with nearly 1.3 million fewer students in higher education since Spring 2020 (FutureEd) resulting in hardships balancing financial sustainability with keeping education affordable and accessible. The rapid implementation of online and hybrid learning during the pandemic has created both opportunities and challenges. Unfortunately, and most importantly, these academic disruptions took a significant toll on students’ mental health and wellbeing. These challenges highlight the importance of our mission to support the Leading the Way Campaign. The Leading the Way Campaign ensures we will make a lasting impact through the four pillars of support: APO Leadership Institute, Student Conference Fund, Leadership Programming Endowment and the Torchbearer Fund. These four pillars emphasize innovation and the willingness to adapt while remaining relevant for the second century of Leadership, Friendship and Service.
As we reflect on legacy, we draw inspiration from Susan Meyer’s legacy of service and impact. Her commitment to APO through the years is demonstrated through her time, talent and treasure. Sue’s legacy will certainly be woven into Alpha Phi Omega and the lives of others – embodying the profound truth behind Pericles’ words.
“What you leave behind is not engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” — Pericles
2024
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Onward and Upward
A walk down memory lane: February 1947 issue of T&T!
This edition of the magazine was published in the 37th anniversary year of Boy Scouts of America in the United States. With Alpha Phi Omega’s strong connection to Scouting, this quote exemplifies the legacy that members of APO have always been encouraged to leave. Members of Alpha Phi Omega should strive to be a strong force for peace and goodwill, building a better tomorrow for the next generation.
1441 E. 104th St., Ste. 105 Kansas City, MO 64131
