FROM THE FRATERNITY
Dear Brothers and Friends of Alpha Phi Omega,
In challenging times, we look to one another for compassion, strength and purpose. For nearly 100 years, Alpha Phi Omega has been a beacon of Leadership, Friendship and Service, proving that no obstacle is too great when we remain united in our mission.
Throughout our history, we have served communities worldwide — providing aid, mentoring youth and leading with integrity. Generations of members have left a legacy, demonstrating that service is a powerful force for good. Even in difficult times, our commitment to serving others has not wavered.
Hardships, whether social, economic or global, have tested us throughout the past 100 years, but each time Alpha Phi Omega has adapted and grown stronger. Today is no different. Our members continue to give back through innovative service projects, supporting local charities and lending a helping hand where needed. Service is not bound by circumstance. It is a lifelong commitment that endures.
Leadership is forged in adversity, and the resilience of our members has never been more evident. Across chapters, students and alumni step up to lead initiatives, advocate for change and support one another. These challenges reinforce the need for leaders who are adaptable, inclusive and compassionate.
Alpha Phi Omega is a brotherhood rooted in inclusivity, where every member is valued and supported. No matter the distance or life’s challenges, we stay connected through local gatherings, virtual meetups, or simply checking in, proving that our bonds are lifelong and unbreakable.
As we approach our 100th anniversary, we celebrate a century of Leadership, Friendship and Service. The upcoming Convention and Centennial Celebration will be a once in a lifetime event for each of us. We are thrilled to welcome our incredible alumni back to celebrate 100 years of our Cardinal Principles! This milestone wouldn’t be the same without the generations of members who have shaped our legacy and continue to inspire the future of our organization. Imagine the joy of spending three days together with brothers you haven’t seen in years and picking up the conversations right where they left off. I look forward to seeing you there.
Our mission is our foundation, guiding us forward no matter the challenges ahead. With hearts full of service, minds dedicated to leadership, and a brotherhood that endures, we will continue making a lasting impact for generations to come.
Thank you for your dedication to Alpha Phi Omega. Together, we will light the way.
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
Susan Klusmeier, Ed. D. Kansas City, MO
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
A Legacy of Service
Service has shaped Alpha Phi Omega’s powerful legacy across a century of compassionate action.
FEATURE
14
Lifting the Next Generation of Leaders
Chapter advisors are transforming chapters and lifting the leaders of tomorrow
18 History of the Torchbearer
Torchbearers fuel APO’s Cardinal Principles and ensure those values continue to burn bright.
4
8
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.
Torch Talk
Read about news from the Fraternity, board meeting minutes and updates regarding Fraternity operations.
Invitation to National Convention
Don’t miss the celebration of the century at APO’s 100th birthday party in Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love!
NATIONWIDE FRATERNITY NEWS
NOTES FROM THE MARCH BOARD MEETING
The following notes were taken at the Alpha Phi Omega Board of Directors meeting on March 8, 2025.
The Board approved the agenda and adopted a consent agenda which included:
• Minutes from the October 26, 2024, meeting
o The granting of a charter to Omega Chi at Jacksonville State University
o The granting of a charter to Alpha Theta Pi at National University
o Amendments to the Fraternity Operations and Policy manual that will establish due dates for Convention Award Applications and establish deadlines for Alumni Regional Voting Delegate Reporting
PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS
• President Martin welcomed Susan Klusmeier to the Board Meeting
STRATEGIC DISCUSSION
• The Board discussed the Convention Task Force and the proposals to implement changes all at once was approved.
• The Board asked for details regarding various options for the National Office space currently leased to a third-party.
• The Board discussed potential legislation for recommendation to the 2025 National Convention
ACTION ITEMS
• The Board approved amending the Fraternity Operations and Policy Manual: Category IV –National Convention, Sub-Category 4., Policy VII.
• The Board approved amending the Fraternity Operations and Policy Manua: Category IV –National Convention, Sub-Category 4., Policy XII and Sub-Category 3. Legislative Process; Policy-II. Convention Nominations Committee.
DISCUSSION AND INFORMATION ITEMS
• Brother Smith provided information on the new leadership programming and the partnership with Gallup.
• Brother London provided a Centennial Capital Campaign update, including that there is a good chance the Fraternity will reach its campaign goal by the 2025 National Convention.
• Brother Robinson provided an operations and membership update for the Board.
The Member Benefits Portal Meets Vital Needs
Alpha Phi Omega wants to support its members as best as it possibly can. One way the Fraternity does this is through the Member Benefits Portal. This portal provides members of APO with access to hundreds of health services, financial wellness, legal services, pet health services and more. These benefits are here to help you live a fuller and healthier life.
For several brothers, the Member Benefits Portal has become an invaluable resource for addressing important life needs. One member recently shared their experience with the Legal and Caregiver bundle, “Signing up was so easy... I was able to speak to a representative to answer my questions and find a participating attorney close to me.”
The practical impact of these benefits is substantial. As one member explained, “With the free basic Will and reduced hourly attorney rate I was able to get a Will, Transfer-on-Death Deed for our house, Living Will, and Durable Power Of Attorney for General and Health Care done for myself and my spouse for a third of the attorney’s normal fees.”
The Member Benefits Portal offers many different services ranging from travel accommodations to financial planning resources. Members consistently report that the portal helps them address important life tasks.
“I highly recommend the Member Benefits Portal. The savings prompted me to finally cross these important items off my to-do list,” shared one brother.
The Portal represents APO’s commitment to providing value and service throughout a member’s lifetime. Whether you’re a recent graduate navigating early career decisions or a long-time brother planning for the future, these resources are designed to support you at every life stage.
Open the door to these exclusive membership benefits today! Visit apoalumni.nbm.store or scan the QR code today to start exploring the full range of benefits available to you as an APO member!
“WITH THE FREE BASIC WILL AND REDUCED HOURLY ATTORNEY RATE I WAS ABLE TO GET A WILL, TRANSFERON-DEATH DEED FOR OUR HOUSE, LIVING WILL AND A DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR GENERAL AND HEALTH CARE DONE FOR MYSELF AND MY SPOUSE FOR A THIRD OF THE ATTORNEY’S NORMAL FEES.”
SUPPORTING CHAPTERS SAVES LIVES
Alpha Phi Omega’s partnership with Gift of Life Marrow Registry began in 2021. Gift of Life is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to cure blood cancer through cellular therapy and making donor matches. Through this partnership, APO chapters have recruited 13,156 potential donors to the registry, resulting in 296 matches and 24 life-saving transplants. APO is proud to see its chapters supporting and serving those who are receiving a second chance at life!
Gift of Life is recognizing the hard work that brothers have put into organizing drives and have come up with a raffle for one lucky chapter to win $500 that will go towards their National Convention fees. To top it off, an anonymous donor has matched this amount! This will allow for another chapter to receive
Financial support from donors and alumni plays a crucial role in sustaining this life-saving work.
$500 to go towards their National Convention fees. Running from August 2024 through May 2025, this contest encourages more chapters to host donor drives, expanding the registry with each event.
Financial support from donors and alumni plays a crucial role in sustaining this life-saving work. It helps Gift of Life make matches that save lives and donations to APO support chapters to achieve this initiative. Donors to Alpha Phi Omega can have a direct impact on
chapters by dedicating their funds to things like covering fees for national and regional events, and more.
An alumni’s support can have a domino effect whether it be through donations or volunteer work with the chapter. Through financial gifts, donors can relieve financial burdens on chapters or provide funds for scholarships that directly benefit chapters. Volunteering with local chapters supports them in their ambitions while building relationships that will last a lifetime.
Alumni are encouraged to connect with their chapter or a local chapter and to attend a donor drive, either to donate or volunteer. Every set of hands is another opportunity to support Alpha Phi Omega chapters and to save lives through Gift of Life’s work. To find an APO chapter hosting a drive near you, go to https:// bit.ly/42ANPyO.
Celebrating 100 Years
in the City of Brotherly Love
At the 2025 National Convention we will be celebrating 100 years of Leadership, Friendship and Service. Join us for four whole days of community, leadership, celebration and FUN! We will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, fittingly known as the City of Brotherly Love. This historic location sets the scene for our monumental Convention, allowing us to reflect on the past 100 years and recharge for the next century.
National Convention is an event like no other, and this year is no exception. The Centennial Celebration will be a historic event, and we want every member to join us as we celebrate 100 years of Alpha Phi Omega.
Picture yourself surrounded by brothers across generations, sharing stories and singing the toast song together, arm in arm. This once-ina-lifetime Centennial Celebration represents a century of Leadership, Friendship and Service that has transformed campuses and communities across the world.
This Convention will be the culmination of a century of impact made possible by brothers like you. The countless service hours contributed by brothers across generations have created a legacy of change that has touched millions of lives.
Join The Brotherly Love
WHERE WILL WE BE STAYING?
Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Group room rate: $120/night
Hotel reservation deadline: November 26, 2025
WHAT WILL I GET WITH REGISTRATION?
• An all-access pass to the Kickoff Party, celebration experiences throughout the whole event, learning labs, service projects, networking events and more!
• An all-day access to APO’s 100th Birthday Party Events on December 30, including the Closing Celebration Banquet.
• An incredible dining package (that’s worth more than $375!).
• Convention and birthday swag, and SO MUCH MORE!
As this is the Centennial Celebration alongside Convention, Alpha Phi Omega is offering a special single-day 100th Birthday Party Event registration option for December 30th. With this exclusive single-day only registration, you will receive:
• An all-day access to APO’s 100th Birthday Party Events throughout December 30, including the Closing Celebration Banquet.
• Birthday celebration swag.
Don’t miss out on the chance of a lifetime to attend the Centennial Celebration. Register now at https://bit.ly/apo2025nationalconvention to save your spot in history!
Epsilon Phi Chapter at Youngstown State University
Lambda Theta Chapter at Columbia College
Gamma Sigma Chapter at the University of Chicago
Theta Chapter at University of Virginia
WhenFrank Reed Horton stood among the men of Alpha Chapter on December 16, 1925, he had a vision for what they would accomplish. Ignited by his service in the Navy during World War I, he decided to dedicate himself to helping young people get the right start in life and create a more peaceful world. Horton’s vision for a more peaceful world and future has carried Alpha Phi Omega for nearly 100 years. Service to others has been the cornerstone and guiding light of the Fraternity from the very beginning, and that spirit has not and will not be dimmed.
In the 1960s, APO chapters actively supported educational equality through tutoring programs in the underserved communities, book drive for schools lacking resources and mentorship programs for disadvantaged youth.
Although not considered a service organization at its founding, service was still pivotal to the mission of APO. Horton emphasized early on that “service to humanity is the greatest of all achievements,” a philosophy that quickly became embedded in the Fraternity’s identity. During the Great Depression, when resources were scarce and needs were overwhelming, APO chapters were crucial to community support. They organized food and clothing drives, assisted with local relief efforts and embodied their commitment to service during one of America’s most challenging periods. Chapters across the Midwest established soup kitchens and clothing distribution centers, serving thousands of community members in need. In the early 1940s, brothers answered the call of service both overseas and on the home front. Many members joined the armed forces, while those who remained on campus directed their energy toward the war effort. Chapters nationwide organized blood drives, war bond
sales and scrap metal collections. One of the most significant service projects APO chapters facilitated during this time were book drives, which collected reading materials for servicemen overseas. Chapters collectively gathered over 25,000 books in a single semester. In February 1942, Alpha Phi Omega was described as “alert to the needs of the hour,” a phrase that embodies the spirit of APO that has persisted for almost a century.
After the war, Alpha Phi Omega saw tremendous growth. Veterans who returned from war had a heightened appreciation for service and brotherhood. This sparked an increase in the number of members and chapters of APO around the country. By 1950, APO had grown to more than 200 chapters nationwide. Fraternity publications celebrated this milestone, noting that “no other fraternity has experienced such rapid growth while maintaining such high standards of service.” Chapters became major organizers of blood donation drives on college campuses, which was very important during the Korean War. In the ‘50s, a contest that became very popular was the “Ugly Man on Campus.” In this contest, brothers would enter, and other students on campus would vote with donations for who the “ugliest” contestant was. All of the proceeds from these events went to charitable causes chosen by the chapter.
In the 1960s, APO chapters actively supported educational equality through tutoring programs in underserved
Lambda Upsilon at Ursinus College
Zeta Omega at Baylor UniversityUniversity
communities, book drives for schools lacking resources and mentorship programs for disadvantaged youth. During this period, many chapters also became involved in environmental conservation efforts. APO members participated enthusiastically in the first Earth Day, leading campus clean-ups and conservation awareness campaigns at dozens of universities nationwide.
The light of brothers across the nation has never been dimmed by circumstance or challenges, in fact, Alpha Phi Omega has proven to thrive in the face of adversity and meet great needs.
As society’s needs evolved, so did APO’s approach to service. The 1980s and 1990s saw chapters tackling issues like hunger, homelessness and environmental conservation with renewed vigor. Many chapters established service relationships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, where they helped build homes for people in their communities. Brothers contributed over 10,000 volunteer hours to home-building projects in a single year. Others created campus food pantries that are still operating today.
After 9/11, chapters organized memorial services, blood drives and fundraising efforts, collectively raising over $175,000 for relief
funds. When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, chapters did not hesitate to help with recovery efforts, with many brothers sacrificing their spring breaks to assist with rebuilding. Over 1,500 APO members participated in “Alternative Spring Break” programs dedicated to Gulf Coast recovery.
When the world was thrown into chaos during the COVID-19 pandemic, APO members met that chaos with helping hands. They rallied to support critical needs in their communities, coordinating virtual food pantries, making and distributing masks, putting together care packages, writing thank you notes to essential workers and much more.
Today, Alpha Phi Omega chapters continue this rich tradition of service while continuing to find innovative ways to address contemporary challenges. The light of brothers across the nation has never been dimmed by circumstance or challenges; in fact, Alpha Phi Omega has proven to thrive in the face of adversity and meet great needs.
As Alpha Phi Omega nears its Centennial year, its impact extends far beyond the immediate benefits of its service projects. APO has shaped generations of servant leaders who carry the Cardinal Principles into their communities and careers. From small campus improvements to large-scale national projects, APO has remained steadfast in its commitment to service. Alpha Phi Omega has adapted to meet the changing needs of communities while staying true to Leadership, Friendship and Service. The history of Alpha Phi Omega is a testament to the enduring power of people united through service, who are working towards the same goal to create a more peaceful world.
Lifting the Next Generation of Leaders
THE ROLE OF CHAPTER ADVISORS
In Alpha Phi Omega, chapter advisors serve as the quiet cornerstone of chapters. These dedicated individuals are more than just administrative connectors; they are essential resources who empower student leaders to fulfill APO’s commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service.
Chapter advisors wear many different hats: they are mentors who provide wisdom while allowing students to take the reins, advocates who build bridges between chapters, their communities and school administrators, and encouragers who support students through both triumphs and challenges.
Their background role enables student leaders to confidently take charge of their chapter. Gabrielly Cordon-Ayala, who is a chapter advisor for Alpha Theta Omicron Chapter at Florida SouthWestern State College, explains her experience in this role.
“I was asked to step into the role as part of my responsibilities in student affairs, but it quickly became more than just a duty — it became a perfect fit,” she said. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to support our chapter as the students grow, serve and work.”
One way chapter advisors have a significant impact is through providing guidance while allowing students the freedom to learn through experience.
“Watching them build confidence, develop leadership skills and form meaningful connections with their peers is why I do what I do,” Cordon-Ayala said. “Being part of their journey — offering guidance, encouragement and sometimes just a listening ear — is an honor.”
A chapter advisor can have a real impact on the longevity and sustainability of a chapter. Advisors provide invaluable perspective during officer transitions and periods of stagnant growth. This continuity helps
bridge the gaps that naturally occur between leadership changes, recruitment cycles and institutional operations. Advisors often have the context and resources from years past to guide students toward solutions.
“I come up with remembrances of activities in the past, bring up how the chapter has done things, but I make sure that I don’t push that. It’s more sustainable when we’re able to let the chapter be who they need to be, but provide the guidance that they need too,” Kirk Sarell, the chapter advisory chair for Gamma Theta Chapter at the University of Colorado at Boulder said. “Working with the students is an encouragement to positive things happening with younger folks.”
Chapters thrive when they are supported by committed advisors. APO recognizes outstanding advisors through the Phyllis Churchill Tenney Excellence in Advising Award, but more importantly, it recognizes that every chapter needs dedicated mentors who understand that their role is not to lead chapters but help lift up those who do.
If you have the passion for developing student leaders and the space to allow them to grow, consider getting involved as a volunteer! You have the opportunity to contribute to the foundation upon which this generation
CHAPTER NOTES
See what great LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP and SERVICE projects chapters have showcased to inspire others through Instagram.
REGION D
University of Texas at Austin, Alpha Rho Chapter
Alpha Rho Chapter spent a day volunteering at the Austin Marathon, which supports different industries in Austin, Texas, every year. This year, funds raised by the marathon went to the Food and Beverage Industry professionals that have benefited Austin, Texas. APO brothers managed the starting line, picked up trash and handed out medals.
REGION C
Saint Louis University, Delta Delta Chapter
Members of the Delta Delta Chapter spent some time beautifying the Saint Louis community by helping plant trees, and cleaning up broken branches and trash.
REGION G
Michigan State University, Beta Beta Chapter
Beta Beta Chapter members volunteered at Fenner Nature Center where they helped remove invasive Bittersweet plants. The chapter got to enjoy time together and after their hard work got to end the day with a snowball fight.
REGION H
Indiana University, Mu Chapter
Mu Chapter assisted Pantry 279 in their shop operations. Brothers packed food, organized files, sorted and folded laundry, assisted patrons between isles, painted murals tailored to children and facilitated the pantry’s own birthday celebration.
REGION F
University of Chicago, Gamma Sigma Chapter
Gamma Sigma Chapter made cards for children in hospitals across the nation last October. They were joined by potential new members as part of their rush events.
REGION O
Lafayette College, Alpha Chapter
Alpha Chapter partnered with Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority and Delta Tau Delta Fraternity for their Rise Against Hunger Event. The chapter and other organizations helped package more than 10,000 meals for those in need.
REGION P
Temple University, Zeta Iota Chapter
At Rocky Run, a race held in Philly, Zeta Iota worked at a water station. They filled and stacked paper cups to help hydrate the runners. Many runners also wore Rocky-inspired outfits, which were a fun touch.
REGION L
Duke University, Lambda Nu Chapter
Lambda Nu Chapter hosted a Duke Forest cleanup. The chapter had five volunteers who spent the day cleaning up Duke Forest.
Igniting the Spark The Evolution of the Torchbearer Fund
In the spirit of unity and forward vision, President Tom T. Galt, M.D., Delta Kappa ’48, recognized a pivotal need for additional operating funds to bolster Alpha Phi Omega’s mission of leadership through service. Embracing the spirit of service as a beacon of progress, President Galt charted a long-range plan poised to support substantial growth through stewardship. These initiatives were steps toward progress that others would build on for years to come.
In 1965, the Fraternity was at a crossroads, for forty years it had been dependent on pledge and initiation fees for more than 90 percent of the operating budget. Fees alone could no longer sustain the pace of growth. October 16, 1965 marked a significant turning point for Alpha Phi Omega as President Galt was empowered to appoint a committee to raise money for the Fraternity in the pursuit of expanding service programs across campuses. Under the guidance of Brother Aubrey Hamilton, Alpha Phi ’36, the appointed Fund Raising Committee established the Sustaining Membership program. This strategic maneuver demonstrated a clear commitment to financial stewardship.
Building upon the Fund Raising Committee, the1972 National Convention set a spirited course for
the Fraternity, creating a resolution that would shape the Fraternity’s legacy of giving — the National Fundraising Quarter. The 1973 Alpha Phi Omega Development Campaign, chaired by the Honorable H. Roe Bartle, Iota ’29, proved to be the most extensive alumni fundraising campaign ever undertaken by Alpha Phi Omega. It was more than a fundraising effort; it was a call to action that united members in Leadership, Friendship and Service. A total of 58,000 letters were slated to be mailed to more than 30,000 alumni and Life Members — now known as Society of Life Members — over a six-month period. Over the next several years the Development Campaign had much success increasing the funds for the operating budget.
1980 marked the start a of a new level of recognition and encouragement of financial contributions to Alpha Phi Omega. As part of the annual Development Campaign, the Fraternity invited alumni members to become Torchbearers. The Torchbearer Program concept was based on “century clubs” and other successful donor recognition programs used by college and university alumni associations. The Torchbearer Porgram was cultivated by the Development Committee, Past National Executive Director Roger Sherwood, Eta ’68, and Mary Cook Cameron, Alpha Rho ’76.
Taking pride in our shared history, we reflect on how the Development Campaign, powered by the passion and service of our donors, expanded from a humble 82 contributors in 1979 to a peak of 1,200 by 2016. Today, with many dedicated supporters, we continue to nurture and protect the ideals of Leadership, Friendship and Service. Alpha Phi Omega continues to remain steadfast in its promise to care for and inspire members to cultivate an inclusive and more peaceful world, ensuring that every contribution fuels a brighter future for all.
Today, thanks to our generous donors, the Torchbearer Fund averages $250,000, making up more than 15 percent of our annual operating budget. This would have never been possible if it were not for the foresight of those who came before us. Thank you President Galt and others for your wisdom and vision.
TORCHBEARER FUND
Follow APO online for the latest news!
1441 E. 104th St., Ste. 105 Kansas City, MO 64131
In the Spring 2000 edition of the T&T, the brothers of Epsilon Lambda Chapter at Michigan Technological University were featured for assisting “Friends of the Elderly,” a local service group in the winter of 2000. This chapter cleared snow off roofs during the winter for those unable to do it themselves, encapsulating APO’s spirit of service!