Winter 2025 | Torch & Trefoil Magazine

WINTER 2025

Happy Founders’ Day

Celebrating 100 Years of Leadership, Friendship and Service

INSIDE: WITHSTANDING THE TEST OF TIME I 8 TOP 100 MEMBERS I 10 A CENTURY OF CHAPTERS IN ACTION I 16

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

FROM THE FRATERNITY Dear Brothers, As I write my final letter as National President of Alpha Phi Omega, I reflect on the milestones we’ve reached and the people who make this fraternity what it is.

Serving our Fraternity has been an incredible privilege — one filled with moments of challenge, joy, growth and deep connection.

Throughout my term, I’ve had the honor of meeting members across the country and around the world — students, alumni and advisors — each living out our principles in their own unique ways. I’ve seen chapters rebuild and reimagine themselves, leaders emerge with fresh ideas and communities strengthened through simple acts of service. I have also seen chapters fold, brothers become discouraged and moments when our shared light seemed dim — only to watch others step forward to rekindle it. Those moments, more than any title or event, are what I’ll remember.

This past year, Alpha Phi Omega marked its 100th Anniversary, a remarkable milestone that reminds us of our enduring purpose. It gave us the chance to honor the generations who built this brotherhood and to celebrate the unbroken chain of service that connects them to today’s members. That said, anniversaries come and go; what truly matters is the everyday commitment of our members who choose to lead with integrity, build friendships rooted in respect and serve with compassion. That’s where our legacy lives — in the pages of history and in the lives we touch every day.

What I’ve come to appreciate most is how APO continues to adapt and stay relevant without losing sight of its heart. We’ve learned that leadership isn’t about authority, it’s about empathy. Friendship isn’t just about connection, it’s about belonging. And service isn’t only what we do, it’s who we become as we serve. Those truths have guided us for a century, and they’ll continue to light our way forward.

As I pass the torch to those who will carry our mission ahead, I do so with confidence and gratitude. The next chapter of Alpha Phi Omega will be written by new voices, full of energy and vision, building on the foundation we’ve all helped to create.

To everyone who has shared this journey with me — thank you. Your support, your counsel and your belief in the power of service have left a permanent mark on my heart. I will forever be proud to call myself your brother.

May we each continue to lead, to serve and to be that steady light in the lives of others — today, tomorrow and in all the years to come.

In Leadership, Friendship and Service,

Melody A. Martin Delta Alpha ‘97 National President

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert J. London, FASAE, CAE MAGAZINE COORDINATOR Madeline Gilbert 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 Jennifer R. Headman, Ph. D. Sioux Falls, SD Susan Klusmeier, Ed. D. Kansas City, MO 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

WINTER 2025

WINTER 2025 • VOLUME 101 • NUMBER 4

COVER STORY

10

Top 100 Members See the top 100 APO members of all time, their impacts on the National Fraternity and more!

FEATURES

8

Withstanding the Test of Time

5

International Service Project

How APO’s founding elements still ring true 100 years later.

Are you looking for adventure this summer? Join us in Belize for service, fun and memories that will last you the next 100 years.

DEPARTMENTS

4 16

Torch Talk

Read about news from the Fraternity, board meeting minutes and updates regarding Fraternity operations.

1944

Chapter Notes

Let’s look back at generations of chapter service projects and noteworthy accomplishments from the past 100 years!

APO SAVE THE DATE! 12/27-30 2025 National Convention

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SCAN AND CHECK OUT THE NATIONAL CALENDAR ON APO.ORG TORCH & TREFOIL n 3

TORCH TALK

NATIONWIDE FRATERNITY NEWS NOTES FROM THE OCTOBER BOARD MEETING The following notes were taken at the Alpha Phi Omega Board of Directors virtual meeting October 12, 2025.

The Board approved the agenda and adopted a consent agenda which included: • Appointment of Alumni Program Chair – James “Tre” Kolling • Approval of the Alumni Committee Members • Approval of the August 24, 2025, minutes PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS

Brother Martin provided an update on the Endowment Meeting, the Board vacancy and thanked Board Members for their work, as this will likely be her last Board meeting.

STRATEGIC DISCUSSION

The Board discussed some of the proposed legislation that has been submitted by members for the upcoming National Convention.

• The Board approved amending the FOPM, Category VII – Administration, Sub-Category 3. Financial Procedures, Policy – X Regional and Sectional Funds.

• The Board approved accepting the recommendation of the Time & Place Reference Committee to host the 2029 National Convention in Seattle, Washington.

• The Board approved amending the FOPM Extension Policies: Category V – Membership and Extension, SubCategory 3. Extension, Policies – II Domestic Extension Requirements, Policy III Domestic Extension Procedures and Process. *FOPM = Fraternity Operations and Policy Manual

ACTION ITEMS

• The Board approved the Volunteer of the Year, who will be announced at the National Convention.

• The Board approved the Standing Rules in the FOPM for National Convention.

• The Board approved amending the FOPM, Category IV – National Convention, SubCategory 2. Credentialing.

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WINTER 2025

TORCH TALK

Are you looking for an adventure?

Do you wish you could combine your love for service with exploring a foreign country?

Join Alpha Phi Omega, May 29 - June 7, 2026, in Belize for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of an international service program!

Brothers from all over are invited to join in this immersive experience where they will travel to Belize to provide service to those in need.

Participants will assist in teaching, cleaning up beaches, working on reforestation projects, after-school programs, sports and more! Beyond these amazing service projects, you will also get to visit the Mayan ruins, snorkel in the reefs, brighten your taste buds with a cacao tour, experience community markets and more.

THE INVESTMENT

Trip Cost: $3,265 per person

A $500 non-refundable deposit is due with trip registration by March 1, 2026, however there is also an option to pay the full amount up front.

If you choose to only pay the deposit with registration, the remaining balance must be paid in full by April 1, 2026. **First 10 registrants receive a $500 discount: $2,765 per person**

YOUR UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS Travel throughout Belize and experience three distinct lodging options: • The Belize Zoo • Blue Creek Rainforest Preserve • South Water Caye on the Belize Barrier Reef

SCHEDULE Alpha Phi Omega and the Cooperative Center for Study Abroad have collaborated to curate a schedule with you in mind! Each day will be a combination of service, learning and fun!

WHO SHOULD REGISTER? This trip is perfect if you: • Want to make summer 2026 unforgettable • Are looking for meaningful international service experience • Want to strengthen your resume with global leadership • Love adventure and trying new things • Want to deepen friendships with APO brothers from across the country

Scan for the Schedule and More Information! >>>

Register today and don’t miss out on the experience of a lifetime!

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TORCH TALK

TO THE 2024-25 CHAPTER OF EXCELLENCE AND PLEDGE PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE RECIPIENTS! The purpose of the Chapter of Excellence (COE) award is to recognize chapters whose programs of Leadership, Friendship and Service promote growth, retention and stability for the active chapter, while providing a positive, inviting and educational environment for prospective and new members.

The Pledge Program of Excellence (PPOE) award specifically recognizes chapters whose pledge program promotes growth and membership stability for the active chapter, while providing an inclusive,

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and educational environment for prospective and new members.

Both awards are designed to promote better communication between the chapter, sectional, regional, and national leadership through regular and timely reporting of chapter activities. Criteria used in considering Chapter of Excellence and Pledge Program of Excellence recipients can be found within the Chapter Same Page Guide.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 2024-2025 CHAPTER OF EXCELLENCE RECIPIENTS: BLUE

DIAMOND

Region N Alpha Delta Delta Chapter at George Mason University

Region N Epsilon Mu Chapter at University of Maryland, College Park Mu Alpha Chapter at Georgetown University Region P Sigma Eta Chapter at Villanova University Zeta Sigma Chapter at University of Delaware Lambda Delta Chapter at New Jersey Institute of Technology Pi Upsilon Chapter at Drew University Theta Alpha Chapter at Stevens Institute of Technology Region Q Xi Rho Chapter at SUNY Oneonta

GOLD Region C Epsilon Pi Chapter at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Region H Tau Lambda Chapter at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Region M Alpha Delta Iota Chapter at Virginia Commonwealth University Region N Zeta Phi Chapter at Howard University Region P Alpha Delta Mu Chapter at Ramapo College of New Jersey Alpha Delta Phi Chapter at Seton Hall University Region Q Alpha Gamma Delta Chapter at SUNY New Paltz

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING 2024-2025 PLEDGE PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE RECIPIENTS: BLUE Region N Alpha Zeta Mu Chapter at Shepherd University GOLD Region A Upsilon Psi Chapter at University of Nevada, Reno Region D Alpha Gamma Kappa Chapter at Southwestern University DIAMOND Region A Kappa Sigma Chapter at California State University, Sacramento Region B Alpha Delta Chapter at San Diego State University Region C Epsilon Pi Chapter at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Region F Alpha Beta Gamma Chapter at Knox College Alpha Alpha Chapter at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Sigma Sigma Chapter at University of Illinois Chicago Region G Beta Beta Chapter at Michigan State University Region H Tau Lambda Chapter at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Alpha Epsilon Beta Chapter at Ohio Northern University Region J Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter at Mississippi Valley State University Gamma Upsilon Chapter at Tulane University Delta Kappa Chapter at Emory University WINTER 2025

Region K Iota Rho Chapter at Florida State University Upsilon Mu Chapter at University of Puerto Rico/Mayaguez Region L Iota Mu Chapter at University of South Carolina at Columbia Iota Lambda Chapter at North Carolina State University Region M Alpha Delta Iota Chapter at Virginia Commonwealth University Alpha Beta Omega Chapter at Old Dominion University Region N Alpha Delta Delta Chapter at George Mason University Epsilon Mu Chapter at University of Maryland, College Park Mu Alpha Chapter at Georgetown University Zeta Phi Chapter at Howard University Region O Iota Omicron Chapter at Gettysburg College Region P Alpha Beta Delta Chapter at Widener University Sigma Eta Chapter at Villanova University Zeta Sigma Chapter at University of Delaware Alpha Eta Omicron Chapter at Stockton University Alpha Zeta Gamma Chapter at The College of New Jersey Alpha Delta Mu Chapter at Ramapo College of New Jersey Alpha Delta Phi Chapter at Seton Hall University Lambda Delta Chapter at New Jersey Institute of Technology Pi Upsilon Chapter at Drew University Theta Alpha Chapter at Stevens Institute of Technology Alpha Eta Tau Chapter at Hofstra University Region Q Theta Kappa Chapter at SUNY Binghamton University Alpha Gamma Delta Chapter at SUNY New Paltz Xi Rho Chapter at SUNY Oneonta Region R Alpha Zeta Beta Chapter at University of Hartford Xi Phi Chapter at University of New Haven TORCH & TREFOIL n 7

Eta Chapter at Northern Illinois University gather for a photo together following a chapter event in 1936.

Withstanding the Test of Time Do you remember your initiation day? Was excitement coursing through your veins? Did you take a breath because you finally found a place that felt like homeaway-from-home? Were you flooded with a sense of pride knowing that you were one step closer to making an impact on the world? Maybe it was all of the above.

Surely that’s what our founding members felt when they signed the first charter at Lafayette College that cold December in 1925.

Gathered in a room were 14 men. They all came from different backgrounds and cities, yet they stood united for one reason: they believed in a certain set Hogg Hall, Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania. of standards to hold themselves to, and they believed that service could change the world.

Those beliefs have been carried through generations of 8 n ALPHA PHI OMEGA

Alpha Phi Omega members for 100 years. From the day you swore to uphold the vision and mission of APO, you became part of a network of people who lit the torch for a world in need of a light for its path.

Following his time in World War I, Brother Frank Reed Horton witnessed a need for a “standard of manhood that would withstand the test of time,” and the need for a way for the nations of the world to settle their disputes with means other than war. It was Frank’s sophomore year at Lafayette College when he attended the American Legion banquet. He sat next to a man named Herbert G. Horton, whom he described as inspiring. The two quickly hit it off. Like him, Herbert had also been a naval officer during World War I, but at the time was serving as a local Boy Scout executive.

Herbert introduced Frank to Scouting and helped him become a deputy scout commissioner. A local troop was in need of a scoutmaster, and Frank took the opportunity.

Frank enjoyed Scouting and realized that the Scout Oath and the Scout Law were the exact “standards of manhood” he had been contemplating. He became an associate camp director at Easton Scout Reservation, where he was able to spend the summer with scouts from different backgrounds. His experience with the Boy Scouts further affirmed that their Oath and Laws would become the backbone of his efforts to improve the lives of others.

At the time, Frank was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, and several of his fraternity brothers were also Boy Scouts. After some consideration, Frank discussed with these young men starting an organization on campus that would stand for the same ideals they WINTER 2025

Number of hours of service completed by collegiate members:

31,824,000 hours = $1.1 billion Epsilon Psi Chapter at Kent State University work to gather and package printed materials in 1961.

all followed, while also giving them an opportunity to expand their leadership and service opportunities.

From there, the men worked together to charter the first chapter of Alpha Phi Omega, with 14 undergraduates signing the charter. December 16, 1925, was the day the first initiation ritual for the 14 undergraduates was conducted, and Alpha Phi Omega was born.

Today, hundreds of potential new members participate in the same ritual Frank conducted 100 years ago. Our ritual is just one common thread that unites all APO members. It is our dedication to Friendship, Leadership and Service that is the lifeblood that runs through all APO members’ veins.

Number of chapters chartered in U.S. and Canada:

786

Scout Oath vs. APO Vision: Scout: On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

APO: 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.

Together, our members have accomplished tremendous goals. Over the last 100 years, active members alone have completed an estimated 31,824,000 hours of service!

Based on the value of a volunteer’s hour as reported by the Independent Sector, this is equal to $1.1 billion in today’s dollars. This impact comes from members on all 786 college campuses across the U.S. and Canada where APO has chartered. These numbers represent only active collegiate members — the service multiplies exponentially as we know our alumni continue leading and serving their communities after graduation.

One hundred years ago, these standards were needed to help shape men and through them their communities, then the world. Today, those standards are just as necessary as they were when Frank tied the law of Scouting to the organization he created.

The “standard of manhood” found in the Scout Oath that Brother Frank Reed Horton instilled in the first members of APO, can still be seen in the vision of APO. The Scout Oath is comprised of 12 points: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent. Our Fraternity follows many of these points, whether they are directly stated in our vision and mission, or shine through our daily routines.

Alpha Phi Omega couldn’t have lasted 100 years, and wouldn’t be gearing up for 100 more, if its founding principles weren’t built to withstand the test of time. It is our vision to 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. When you were initiated into APO, you became a part of our family, which will persist in the next century of Friendship, Leadership and Service.

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ALPHA PHI OMEGA’S 100 YEARS OF SUCCESS WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THE THOUSANDS OF MEMBERS WHO HAVE PUSHED THE BOUNDARIES OF LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP AND SERVICE SINCE ITS CREATION. We celebrate you and the countless members who have made our Fraternity what it is today! After careful consideration of all nominees, a task force has selected 100 members who have stood out through their dedication not only to Alpha Phi Omega, but to Leadership, Friendship and Service. These members have strived for excellence, crafting our National Fraternity into a unique organization open to anyone seeking to make a difference.

Alpha Phi Omega’s Top 100 Members recognition honors brothers who have demonstrated unparalleled dedication to APO’s mission over the course of their membership and to their communities. Selection as an honoree celebrates enduring commitment to Leadership, Friendship and Service — values that have undoubtedly shaped both their personal, professional and community success.

Creating this list of the Top 100 members from APO’s first century was an immense challenge and not a perfect process. With tens of thousands of brothers who have embodied Leadership, Friendship and Service throughout our history, narrowing the selection to just 100 names was truly impossible - there are countless members whose contributions, dedication and impact on their chapters, communities and the world at large deserve recognition. This list should be viewed as a sampling of the extraordinary brothers who exemplify the Cardinal Principles and serve as inspiring examples for future members.

Every member who has lived out APO’s Cardinal Principles has contributed to our Fraternity’s legacy, and while we celebrate these 100 honorees, we honor all brothers who have made Alpha Phi Omega the remarkable organization it is today.

Join us in celebrating APO’s Top 100 Members! The following are highlights of just a few of the brothers selected for this list. You can view a complete list at www.apo.org! Join us in celebrating APO’s Top 100 Members!

Members in this list who have passed on are marked with an asterisks.

SCOTT BEALE, MU ALPHA ‘96

Brother Scott Beale took service to the next level when he created Atlas Corps, Inc., an international network of nonprofit leaders and organizations that address social issues by developing leaders, strengthening organizations, and promoting innovation and idea sharing through a global fellowship program. Brother Beale used this organization to expand leadership to provide better support to those in need. Last year he stepped away from his role as Associate Director of Global Operations of the Peace Corps, to start a consulting business.

DR. JAMIE CONOVER STEWART, ZETA BETA ‘87*

Brother Jamie Conover Stewart was the 2020 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree) and challenged members to look at recruitment in a new light. She asked members to R.E.C.R.U.I.T.: R - Relish your time as pledge/new member, E – Enjoy yourself, C – Commit to the principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service, R – Reach out to others, U – Understand that YOU can make a difference in the Fraternity, I – Involve yourself, and T – Tell a friend to join you. One of her many passions was extending APO to as many college campuses as possible – Brother Stewart helped charter more than 30 chapters! She was awarded the Alumni Distinguished Service Key in 2018 and was one of the inaugural recipients of APO’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2020.

PAUL V. LOUIE, ZETA BETA ‘86

Brother Paul Louie was the 2018 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree and was awarded the National Distinguished Service Key in 2012. His dedication

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to serving others either through the Fraternity or through Scouting has been highlighted by several awards granted to him by various APO chapters and the National Fraternity. Brother Louie asked members to question whether their service projects are actually benefiting their communities and the organizations they choose to support. In his Pledge Class Challenge, he urged chapters to explore other organizations and new ways to support their communities.

STAN CARPENTER, PHD, XI OMICRON ‘68

“Much, if not most, of who I am as a person I owe to my experiences in higher education and in APO. I want to make sure that those opportunities are available to others forever.” – Past National President Stan Carpenter, Fall 1999 Torch & Trefoil.

Past National President Stan Carpenter’s impact on Alpha Phi Omega includes overseeing the construction of the Fraternity’s first permanent National Office building and helping establish National Service Day — now expanded to National Service Week — which inspires chapters across the country to participate in service to all. Throughout his involvement with APO, he served in numerous roles at the local, regional and national levels. His dedication to the Fraternity was recognized when he received the National Distinguished Service Key in 1990 and was named the 1999 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree.

GERALD A. SCHROEDER, MU ALPHA ’66*

“Jerry Schroeder ... had a dedication to its [Alpha Phi Omega] principles as much or more than anyone ever. From the time that he pledged Mu Alpha Chapter at Georgetown University, with a hiatus for law school and military service, he served his chapter and later his section, region, and ultimately, the National Fraternity with all his heart

TORCH & TREFOIL n 11

and commitment. ” - Past President Stan Carpenter remarked about Brother Schroeder.

Past National President Schroeder was deeply active in APO at the national level. He sat on several committees and was the Chairman of the first Capital Campaign Cabinet. In 1996 he received the National Distinguished Service Key and was the Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree in 2005. Brother Schroeder left a lasting impact on our Fraternity through his dedication to service for all, and his love for our mission and vision.

JAMES L. CHANDLER, OMICRON TAU ’65*

Brother Chandler was a National Distinguished Service Key recipient and a long-time Boy Scouts of America Liaison to the Fraternity, known for his enthusiasm for scouting and his work to keep APO’s roots alive.

“Chandler’s impact on the relationship between BSA and the Fraternity continues to foster a stronger APO, as well as positively impact Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts all over the nation, including special needs Scouts…It is not possible to think of Jim Chandler and not think of the Boy Scouts of America; in many ways, they are one in the same,” said Past National President Mark Stratton, Fall 2010 Torch & Trefoil.

SUSAN MEYER, GAMMA PI '86*

“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.” – Winter 2024 Torch & Trefoil.

Brother Meyer’s generosity of time and strength led to her receiving the National Distinguished Service Key and was reflected in her work as an Endowment Trustee.

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We celebrate you and the countless members who have made our Fraternity what it is today!

ROGER A. SHERWOOD, ETA ’68

Brother Roger Sherwood, a Past National Executive Director and National Distinguished Service Key recipient, whose passion for APO kept him coming back between his career obligations.

He began his time as an employee at APO as a Service Representative, before resigning and joining the United States Armed Forces. In 1972, Brother Sherwood returned as the National Executive Director of the Fraternity. In 1981, he moved forward in his career outside of APO yet remained deeply involved with the Fraternity as a volunteer, serving on several committees over the years. He is a lifetime member of the National Board of Directors.

BENJAMIN KUTLER, KAPPA ’94*

Brother Ben Kutler was a dedicated APO volunteer who graciously gave his time, mostly through the APO LEADS leadership development program. He served on the APO LEADS Committee in various positions from 2010 to 2011 and from 2014 to 2020.

In 2013 he was the Chair of the Scouting and Youth Services Committee. Brother Kutler served APO through his seven-year battle with cancer until he passed in November of 2020. He was also a Society of Life Member and was one of the inaugural recipients of APO’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2020.

Brother Kutler’s passion for helping leaders grow was reflected in the time he volunteered throughout his life.

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JACK A. MCKENZIE, GAMMA LAMBDA ’73

MAURA HARTY, MU ALPHA ’78

“The leader’s job is then to see that the plan is followed and to give guidance and help along the way. The leader’s job is not to do the whole thing alone.” Past National President Jack A. McKenzie Past National President McKenzie has been deeply involved with curating National Conventions since his presidency in 1998.

Beyond this, he has held various volunteer positions at the chapter, regional and national levels. For his devotion to APO, he was awarded the National Distinguished Service Key and was the 2009 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree, among many other awards from the National Fraternity and his chapter.

Brother Maura Harty has dedicated her career to international service. The Alumni Distinguished Service Key recipient has worked in various government positions providing aid to citizens overseas and in South America. She aided in the opening of the American Embassy in Vilnius, Lithuania, and later would become the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Paraguay. “Even more important than the impact she has had in the Fraternity is the impact she has had in her professional career by taking the principles she learned in the Fraternity and carrying them out in her everyday life,” said Past National President John K. Ottenad in the Fall 2012 Torch & Trefoil.

JOHN MACK, ALPHA ETA ’40*

Brother Mack is one of thousands of APO members who have given financially to the Fraternity, and is one of few whose financial support continues to give to members every year through the John Mack Scholarship Program. This award is given to members who exhibit leadership and participate in extracurricular activities to benefit charitable or humanitarian organizations. Each year, John Mack Scholarship recipients are awarded amounts ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 to go toward their education expenses. Over his lifetime, Brother Mack gave more than $680,000 to the Fraternity through the Torchbearer Fund and to his scholarship program upon its creation in 1995.

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MARGARET “MAGGIE” KATZ, GAMMA PI ’81

“Synergy is probably the greatest thing about Alpha Phi Omega.

Alone, we each have pieces of the puzzle… If we combine our puzzle pieces, we can complete the picture. Together we can make the whole greater than the sum of its parts – synergy.” - Past National President Maggie Katz, Spring 2007 Torch & Trefoil.

Past National President Maggie Katz has served the Fraternity in myriad volunteer roles throughout her membership. She held various positions at the local, regional and national level – eventually being elected APO’s first female National President in 2006. For her decades of dedication to the Fraternity, she was awarded the National Distinguished Service Key in 2016 and was named the 2021 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree.

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JOHN C. JADEL, ZETA KAPPA ’50 *

Brother John “Jack” Jadel, recipient of the National Distinguished Service Key and the 2007 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree, was deeply passionate about strengthening young leaders through service. For a decade, he was an APO Endowment Trustee, and in 1995 he created the Youth Service Grant and continued to give graciously to the Fraternity for many years later. Beyond his work with APO, Brother Jadel was also a lifelong Scout, where he volunteered and received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, the Silver Beaver, Antelope, and Buffalo, and served as President of the National Eagle Scout Association.

PHILIP M. PFEFFER, PH.D., ZETA NU ’64

“Exceed expectations, don’t just meet expectations. Never promise more than you can deliver. Always deliver more than you promised.” This was just one of many items that Brother Philip Pfeffer listed as the characteristics and qualities of a leader, published in the Winter 1997 Torch & Trefoil. Among these qualities were kindness, graciousness, acceptance and more.

Brother Pfeffer was an Endowment Trustee for 17 years, a recipient of the National Distinguished Service Key, Alumni Distinguished Service Key and the 2016 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree.

FRANK REED HORTON, ALPHA ’25 *

peaceful world for all.

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Founder and Past National President, Brother Frank Reed Horton, was the cocreator of our Fraternity. It was his passion for service and a higher standard of “manhood” that led to his endeavor to create a more

“As Scouting is world-wide, so should Alpha Phi Omega be world-wide, gradually in the colleges and universities of all the nations. Alpha Phi Omega can help bring about more nearly, through the future statesmen of the world, that standard of manhood and international understanding and friendship that will lead to a better, more peaceful world in which to live, and in which to make a living and a life.” Brother Frank Reed Horton.

H. ROE BARTLE, IOTA ’29 *

Past National President H. Roe Bartle, affectionately known as “The Chief” among APO and Boy Scouts of America, is credited for his dedication to the growth of the Fraternity across the nation. During his presidency from 1931 to 1946, the Fraternity gained 73 chapters across the U.S. Prior to this, there were only 17 since its founding in 1925.

Past National President Bartle was awarded the National Distinguished Service Key and was a three-time Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree in 1946, 1962 and 1974.

DEMETRIO AGUILA, ZETA UPSILON ’91

Dr. Aguila felt it wasn’t right to be taking advantage of people who are the most vulnerable, especially when they are sick or injured. It was then he decided to open his own medical practice, Healing Hands of Nebraska, built on the foundation of the M25 Program. With the M25 Program, patients have the option to pay for their treatments through volunteering. Building a practice around this principle has allowed Brother Aguila to work without the need for insurance companies, citing that administrative costs from health insurance providers are the primary reason healthcare is so expensive in the United States. “Brother Aguila’s dedication to serving the vulnerable and underserved WINTER 2025

in his community and beyond is an inspiration to all.

His story reminds us that each one of us has the power to make a difference, and that a life of service is a life welllived.” – Spring 2023 Torch & Trefoil.

TOGO WEST, ZETA PHI ’61 *

“The young men and women of Alpha Phi Omega are wonderful people who can set positive examples for youngsters struggling in school. As college students, you have made it in their eyes and you are important role models for them. Your service sends a powerful message about the importance of literacy and the value of an education. There is no surer way to be of service to your community and your nation than helping a young person realize his or her potential.”

– Brother Togo West, Fall 2004 Torch & Trefoil .

Brother West worked under United States President and APO Brother Bill Clinton, as the Secretary of the Army and then as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Prior to his work under the Clinton Administration, Brother West served under President Carter and President Ford and held a variety of positions on Capitol Hill. Serving others tirelessly was Brother Togo West’s passion, and for his work, he received the Alumni Distinguished Service Key. DR. ROBERT GATES, NU RHO ’62

Brother Gates’ life was dedicated to service in a variety of ways. He is an Eagle Scout, a member of the United States Air Force, he worked for the CIA and served as the United States Secretary of Defense. His work as an APO brother as well as through the government has allowed him to support the globe, providing assistance to those in need, no matter how far they are. Brother Gates was also a recipient of the Alumni Distinguished Service Key in 2016.

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These members have strived for excellence, crafting our National Fraternity into a unique organization open to anyone seeking to make a difference.

BOB BARKHURST, PI BETA ’65 *

Brother Barkhurst’s passion for history and service led him to be the National Historian of APO for more than 30 years.

His love for APO earned him the National Distinguished Service Key award in 1990, and he was the Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree in 2000. At every National Convention, he put together a historical display, and he played an integral part in the creation of the Alpha Phi Omega National Fraternity History Book, which describes Fraternity events from 1925 through 1993.

LT. COL. LUCIUS E. YOUNG, ZETA PHI ’48 *

Past National President Lt. Col. Young served overseas in the United States military for nearly 30 years and was one of the first three black people to graduate from the National Training School for Scouting Executives in Mendham, New Jersey. He made history as the first person of color to be elected APO’s National President. For his service to the Fraternity, Past National President Lt. Col. Young was awarded the National Distinguished Service Key and was the 1976 Fall Pledge Class Namesake Honoree.

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CHAPTER NOTES Decades of Dedication

Eta Chapter, Northern Illinois University -1929 Supporting the Scouts During the early days of our Fraternity, scouting was a major part of the Fraternity’s service projects. In January of 1929, Eta Chapter sponsored a film that showed parts of Europe where Jamboree Scouts would be traveling to. The following month, the chapter sponsored a Scouting Rally in cooperation with the Chief Shabbona Area Council for all Scouts in DeKalb, Illinois.

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Alpha Omicron Chapter, Southern Methodist University -1937 Spreading Cheer Through Books In 1937, Alpha Omicron Chapter started a library in West Dallas. The entire campus was urged to donate books under the university Christmas tree to be added to the new West Dallas library system.

Forty books were donated as the beginning of the library. Alpha Omicron Chapter set up the catalogue system and selected one person from the West Dallas community to be in charge of checking books in and out to the community.

1937

Alpha Delta Chapter, San Diego State University – 1944 Saving Lives With Donation The American National Red Cross began in 1881, and more than 60 years later Alpha Delta Chapter was supporting their life-saving work. In 1944, the chapter held a drive to gather funds for Red Cross. Brother Fred Miles was one of the chapter brothers who gathered donations in the university cafe.

1944

1952 Chi Chapter, University of California-Los Angeles – 1952 Summer Camp Awaits Chi Chapter, in 1952, worked with the UCLA Recreation (formally known as the Recreation Association) and conducted a King Contest. Students voted on the most popular professor on campus. Each vote was worth one cent.

Brother Maury Potkins, oversaw the voting and collected $1,600, which was donated to the Uni-Camp Drive, a fund used to send underprivileged children to summer camp.

Kappa Delta Chapter, Florida A&M University – 1967 Clothes for Christmas The Holidays are right around the corner, and in 1967, Kappa Delta Chapter supported those in need by collecting clothing items to donate to the Benevolent Center in Tallahassee, Florida, as their Christmas project. Brothers packed the items into a truck to be taken to the Benevolent Center after the drive was over.

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1981

Lambda Omicron Chapter, West Virginia University & Beta Chapter, University of Pittsburgh – 1992 Run For Autism Lambda Omicron Chapter and Beta Chapter band together to support autism. Brothers from both chapters participated in the annual Run-From-Pitt. The run was done through the Pittsburgh vs. WVU football game. The football started at Pitt Stadium, was ran and handed off from Panther head coach at the time, Paul Hackett, to Beta Chapter President Lisa Ballehr.

The football was then relayed by members from both universities over a stretch of 80 miles to Mountaineer Field at West Virginia University. To raise funds to sponsor the run, runners collected donations, and sponsored a variety of events along with the run including bingo games, car washes, cookie sales and more to raise funds in support for autism. Through these various events, the chapters were able to raise awareness as well for autism.

1972

Mu Nu, Western Illinois University – 1972 Awareness of the Heart Mu Nu Chapter collaborated with the women of Alpha Omicron Pi to collect $727 for the March of Dimes event in January 1972. This amount was a record for the annual drive at the time, being more than twice the amount raised the year prior.

Epsilon Chapter, Northeast Missouri State University – 1981 Clean-Up Project Epsilon Chapter, in 1981, held a clean-up day for the city of Kirksville, Missouri. The chapter collaborated with the Kirksville Chamber of Commerce and Public Services Department. The brothers worked in freezing weather conditions to collect several bags of trash around town.

2003

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Mu Chapter, Indiana University-Bloomington – 2015 Rubber ducks are used for more than just a fun bath time.

Mu Chapter held their annual Rubber Duck Regatta in 2015.

Rubber ducks raced down the Jordan River in Dunn Meadow, Indiana, raising more than $2,200 for New Hope Family Shelter. They also hosted tailgate-themed games for students and local families to participate in.

1992

Alpha Delta Tau Chapter, Nova Southeastern University – 2003 APO and Florida Marlins Support Muscular Dystrophy Alpha Delta Tau Chapter worked with APO alumni to raise awareness and funds for children with Muscular Dystrophy in 2003. Brothers participated in the 4th annual Florida Marlins “Jersey Off Their Back” event.

The event raised more than $6,000 for children to attend a summer camp program.

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A Simple Idea, 100 Years Strong A hundred years ago, a simple, powerful idea took root on a college campus: that leadership is best learned by serving others and that friendship forged in service can change communities — and lives. Today, as Alpha Phi Omega celebrates its centennial Founders’ Day, that idea remains our North Star. We mark this milestone with gratitude and pride, honoring the Cardinal Principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service that have guided more than 535,000 members across 786 campuses in our history. From first-year students discovering a sense of belonging to alumni who continue to mentor, volunteer, and give, through a shared

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purpose, we look back with appreciation and look forward with conviction, recommitting ourselves to our mission of preparing campus and community leaders through service, and to our vision of creating inclusive communities for a more peaceful world.

From our modest beginnings, the Fraternity’s fundraising achievements have grown remarkably. The financial evolution of Alpha Phi Omega has been pivotal in sustaining and expanding its mission. Sustaining this mission has required three strategic capital campaigns, thoughtful financial stewardship

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and a community of donors who see leadership development as an investment with lifelong returns.

Today, thanks to the generosity of alumni, APO raises more than a quarter of a million dollars annually to fuel our work.

As we step into our second century, we do so guided by the same North Star: to develop leaders, unite members through friendship and render service to all. Our vision calls us to build inclusive communities where every member can belong, contribute, thrive and where leadership is defined by character. The coming years will undoubtedly present new challenges and opportunities for growth, yet they are a testament to our dedication to serving courageously and

leading humbly. To all our members, alumni and supporters: it is your commitment that propels us forward. As we celebrate 100 years of service and leadership, let this moment be a call to action — to reunite and strengthen our communities, ensuring that the spirit of Alpha Phi Omega inspires future generations to rise and become leaders in their communities.

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Today, thanks to the generosity of alumni, APO raises more than a quarter of a million dollars annually to fuel our work. Unique contributions from legacy gifts that endow scholarships, to sustaining donors, and first-time donors, who give in honor of a brother, have deepened our impact. This growth has enabled more officer training, innovative leadership programs and expanded resources that help chapters improve their communities.

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A TOAST TO

Alpha Phi Omega One hundred years ago, our founders gathered with a vision: to build a fraternity rooted in Leadership, Friendship and Service. Today, we stand on the shoulders of generations who transformed that vision into a living legacy.

To the brothers who came before us, thank you for lighting the path.

To those of us here today, thank you for carrying the torch forward.

And to the next century of Alpha Phi Omega – may we continue to serve our communities, uplift one another and welcome all who share our vision of a more peaceful world. May our bonds grow stronger, our impact deeper and our commitment to service unwavering.

Here’s to the friendships we’ve built, the lives we’ve touched and the future we’ll create together.

To Alpha Phi Omega — past, present and future.