PURPLE LEGIONNAIRE REPORT
CHRIS HUPE '94
Another school year transitions into summer and in a blink of an eye, we are welcoming 20 new members and their parents into FIJI as the Fall semester is underway The pace with which things move these days is confounding to this PL with each passing year.
Meld with that the political change, societal change, university change, student change, and Fraternity change, and we have the ingredients for a dynamic challenge. I am so very thankful for each of you and your support of the chapter I am also very proud of the volunteer team we have in place to serving in key roles to help us navigate the constant environment of change
As we move into a new school year, our property has never looked better thanks to the vision, leadership, and fiscal management of the House Corporation, Brother Jeff Fowler and his team, and generous donations from alumni, parents, and the undergraduate chapter which continues to churn out amazing capital improvement projects
Our Parents Club, with support of House Corp , took on a formal living room modernization project under the direction of chapter Treasurer Grant Heinisch’s mother, Aimee, using funds primarily donated by the parents. As a talented interior designer, Aimee developed the vision, donated her services to the chapter, and spearheaded the project acting as general contractor over the summer We are thankful for her and excited for you to see the results of this incredible collaborative effort
During this seeming endless season of change, one thing I can tell you has not changed is the need for, and benefits of, “Fraternity Done Right.”
Research released by the North American Interfraternity Conference over the past several years concluded that wellrun fraternities provide measurable academic, social, leadership, and career benefits for college men The research around the social and emotional impacts of fraternity found structured peer mentorship fosters strong social bonds and supportive networks, reducing feelings of isolation and improving overall well-being, citing higher levels of thought around decision-making and accountability.
The research also correlates these important outcomes to chapters with engaged and active alumni emphasizing character development, mentorship, accountability, and community engagement The research is indeed reassuring as this is precisely the game plan we have working with our undergraduates to execute. BCA mentors are supporting our undergraduates, and our members continue to work hard during busy times toward the objectives of the programs. As our chapter once again climbs to 70 active members this semester, we are well positioned to help our men navigate fast change
I look forward to another year refining our “building courageous leaders” and “foundation of courage” programs to drive positive, life changing value for our members.
GO CATS!
Chris
PRESIDENT’S UPDATE
TY ROSHAU CHAPTER PRESIDENT
The spring semester closed on a strong note with our Chapter GPA at 3.42, placing us in the top third in IFC fraternities Nearly 20% of our members earned a 4 0 GPA, showcasing our continued commitment to scholarship Special thanks to Drake Augustine (Fall ‘23) for leading the charge last year, and best of luck to Ryan Kreisel (Fall ‘24) as he steps in to guide our academic efforts this year.
Philanthropy and community service also ended with great success. Our Island Philanthropy Week once again drew participation from the majority of campus sororities, with events such as volleyball, t-shirt signing, and a closing carnival Congratulations to the ladies of Alpha Delta Pi for winning our week for the first time in recent years
Recruitment concluded on a high note as well In his final year leading the Recruitment team, Logan Latto (Fall ‘22) helped secure a Fall 2025 pledge class of 20 members - the largest class FIJI has seen in years. This was made possible through collaboration with House Corp., allowing a few juniors to move out to create space for more freshman. With 55 men living in the house this fall, we will be at full capacity
The summer months were equally productive as we completed major renovations to our house Thanks to Aimee Heinisch, the Formal Living Room now features fresh paint, a new fireplace mantel, and a chandelier, creating a space that is both grand and welcoming. The Study Room was fully revamped with new carpet, outlets, a granite countertop, an A/C unit, improved lighting, and an updated ceiling. We are also extremely grateful to IHQ for their generous scholarship support, which provided five monitor docking stations, new desk chairs, and a filing cabinet, completing the room’s functionality
Looking ahead, we are excited to begin the year with both new and returning members. Highlights of the early Fall semester include the Family and Alumni Tailgate vs. Army, our House Formal Trip to Dallas, Father’s Weekend, Initiation of our New Members, Homecoming, and a philanthropy volleyball tournament with the SAE House. Here’s to another successful year of growth, brotherhood, and achievement!
RESIDENT ADVISOR UPDATE
GREG NELSON ‘79
I’m excited and humbled to continue as Resident Advisor for ‘25/’26 and look forward to building relationships with our new members as well strengthening current ones. Fall ‘25 (wow 25!!!) is off to a roaring start. The Undergrads welcomed 20 (yes 20!) new members to our ranks They are a great group of young men with diverse majors and hometowns, and all aspire to carry on our high ideals and traditions
Building Courageous Leaders (BCL) week kicked off with new member move in and orientation meeting with their parents on Sunday, August 16 followed by a week of team building and brotherhood events Serenades capped the week with the FIJIs exceling and lofting our “cred” with sororities Not bad for only 3 days of practice!
The calendar is absolutely jam packed this fall with games/tailgates, grad weekend, UG’s fall formal in Dallas, intramurals, homecoming, dad’s weekend, and oh yeah...ACADEMICS. Please consider joining us for Wednesday dress dinner. The undergrads value your wisdom and guidance always
Click to see Fall ’24 around the house - FIJI Photos Album
We quietly have an amazing celebration of academic achievement each semester at our scholarship dinner where we recognize achievement and improvement. Thanks to a house bill contribution from the undergrads to the semester scholarship fund, which is doubled by generous contributions from the brothers who fund the Excellence Fund, a substantial amount of cash awards are split between all brothers who exceed the KSU all men’s GPA, earning what we named “FIJI All-Academic Team” status.
It is a great celebration...one that is too good to keep to ourselves. I have often thought this is an element we need to share and celebrate with a wider audience. With the support and skill of Graduate Brother Gabe Grant, we developed a vision in 2023 to host a FIJI Scholars and Awards luncheon during the Spring semester with parents, family, and area alumni
Two years later, the idea was brought to life in the ballroom at the KSU Student Union. On April 6, 2025, in front of a group of more than 200, we recognized undergraduate scholars, presented annual chapter awards, handed out the Jim Kincaid Memorial Scholarships, and celebrated excellence along with individual achievement
A new special element during the celebration featured a senior legacy moment. As part of FIJI’s Building Courageous Leaders Curriculum, the final senior program deals with transition to graduate status, and we take the opportunity to think about their journey and discuss legacy As part of this program, I challenged each senior with a series of prompts reflecting on their experiences, memories, and growth throughout their FIJI career They each took time to reflect and write their responses. After all awards were presented at the luncheon, each senior was introduced, with a personal comment from their Purple Legionnaire. A brief bio of their achievements within the chapter and at K-State was shared with the room in addition to highlighting was next for them on graduation
A special moment was when their mothers greeted them on stage and presented each with a FIJI stole purchased by the Mom’s Club... it was indeed a highlight moment. At the podium, each of them shared a personal reflection on their FIJI journey along with advice for younger brothers As you might imagine the responses ran the gamut from serious to funny, but all were heartfelt and meaningful
The event garnered great feedback from our parents and alums who attended. Several parents noted it was a highlight of their experiences with their son and the Fraternity. Alumni commented on the wonderful time meeting parents and siblings in addition to celebrating the achievements of brothers Another parent shared the following via email,
“Just wanted to say ... I think everything was wonderful! And while it was great to see all the men accept awards, I especially enjoyed learning more about each Senior and listen to them speak. I fast forward 4 years from now... thinking of all the men in my son’s class... men that we are just now starting to meet, hear stories about, etc I love that you spoke of the Seniors’ involvement and plans after graduation I look at these 18 new initiates and can’t wait to hear their words and hear what their story will be after graduation. But for now, in the words of the Seniors, I hope they slow down, take pictures, say yes to everything, and enjoy the memories they will make over the next 3 years. I’m sure the next 3 years will go by way too fast. Thank you for opening this award luncheon to families. It was a wonderful afternoon!”
I agree, it was a wonderful afternoon Thank you to all who attended and made the event a highlight moment I am looking forward to the 2026 Luncheon on Sunday March 29 at 11:30AM. th
More details and registration available at: https://fijischolars2026.rsvpify.com.
Chris Hupe
JIM KINCAID & RANDY COBLE
EXCELLENCE FUNDS
'91
The Jim Kincaid Memorial Foundation, recognized as a 501 (c)(3) charitable entity, offers donors the remarkable opportunity to make their gifts tax-deductible, paving the way for impactful philanthropy Many Graduate Brothers have already chosen to leave a lasting legacy by designating a portion of their estate to the Foundation. Notably, a Graduate Brother can name the Jim Kincaid Foundation as a beneficiary of their taxable IRA - ensuring that the Foundation receives the full value of the gift, free from federal or state income tax, maximizing its benefit to the organization’s mission In contrast, if left to heirs, such assets would be subject to significant taxation The same tremendous advantage applies to highly appreciated stocks, which the Foundation can accept without incurring any capital gains tax.
To support your planning, a team of experienced attorneys sits on the Foundation’s Board, ready and eager to assist any Graduate Brother with estate planning strategies that optimize both philanthropic impact and tax efficiency
Within the Foundation, the Excellence Fund stands as a powerful subset, where 50% of each contribution is taxdeductible. For instance, a monthly donation of $20 means that $10 goes directly to the Excellence Fund’s nondiscriminatory account - empowering the Board to address important house needs not strictly tied to scholarships, such as meeting refreshments, essential supplies, or matched funds for special initiatives The other $10 is fully deductible, providing crucial support for a range of academic and leadership scholarships, including the Academy Scholarships, Jim Kincaid Scholarships, and Rush and Cabinet Scholarships.
By participating, you not only contribute to the enduring legacy and excellence of the Jim Kincaid Memorial Fund but also unlock meaningful tax benefits and strategic estate planning advantages Link to Donate to Excellence Fund
RECRUITMENT UPDATE
BILL GILTNER ‘89 MITCH KEATING ‘13
The Undergraduate Chapter, led by the Recruitment Team, signed 20 New Members to the Fall 2025 Class! Profiles of these young men will be highlighted in the next newsletter Excellent job to all involved in the effort to bring this solid group of young men to Chi Deuteron! In essence, recruitment has now become a whole house effort with all Undergrads becoming Certified Recruiters.
The process of recruitment has evolved as shared in previous communications. Your referrals of qualified candidates remain vitally important to the success of our Chapter Please send candidate’s information (Name, Cell #, Email Address, Hometown, GPA) to rushksufiji@gmail com for the Fall 2026 Class
The following are a few critical tips to be aware of: Recruitment for Fall 2026 will be early in the Fall of 2025. Candidates should begin this process early in the Fall semester to gain multiple touchpoints. Each Potential New Member (PNM) will be voted on by the entire Chapter prior to receiving a bid This is a highly competitive process It is imperative that PNMs meet as many Undergraduate Brothers as possible to discuss/sell their qualifications
Potential Legacy referrals are needed and greatly appreciated! It is important to note that there are no automatic bids. Coaching the Potential Legacy to meet and discuss/sell their qualifications is necessary. This may mean attending more than one recruitment event Potential Legacies should also attend recruitment events for other Fraternities to gain a broad perspective and find the best suited environment
We look forward to a highly productive Fall 2026 Recruitment Season and another stellar class. Please feel free to reach out to Bill Giltner (913) 961-2433 or Mitch Keating (785) 307-0651 with questions
K-STATE FIJIS IN IRELAND
Some Chi Deuteron brothers, and their families, made the trip to Ireland to cheer on the Cats as they battled the Iowa State Cyclones. Although the game didn’t go the way we had hoped, it was a great experience with lasting memories Thank you, brothers, for sharing some photos from your trip We look forward to hearing more stories at the upcoming Tailgate!
ONE WILDCAT SATURDAY...
Saturday, September 6, 2025
11:30AM to 1:30PM
Chi Deuteron Chapter House
1919 Hunting Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502
FIJI Undergrads, Grads, and their families are invited to a BBQ lunch at the Chi Deuteron House before our KState Wildcats take on the Black Knights of Army. Take a tour of newly remodeled areas of the Chapter House while enjoying lunch with generations of FIJI families. We’ll have tailgate games, basketball, and the putting green will be in full swing!
RSVP Deadline: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
BBQ Tickets
Adults: $15
Ages 6-18: $10
6 & Under: Free
Current Undergraduate FIJIs do not need a ticket to attend
Lunch Menu
Grillout Buffet
Cheeseburgers, Brats, & Hot Dogs
Lettuce, Tomato, Onion & Pickle
Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo
Baked Beans
Mac & Cheese
Coleslaw
Cookies/Brownies
Tea, Lemonade, & Water
CASH BAR AVAILABLE!
TWO GREAT FIJI EVENTS!!
4th ANNUAL FIJI GRAD TAILGATE
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Tailgate Opens 1:30PM
Pizza Delivery 4:00PM
Kickoff Time 6:00PM
New Location!
KSU Agronomy Front Lawn
2200 Kimball Avenue
Directly across Kimball (North Side) from BSFS
Tailgate Tickets
Brothers: $65
Guests Age 18+: $35
Guests 17 & Under: $15
Tailgate Ticket includes: Pizza & Snacks (Sponsored by Ron Buck & Buck Roofing)
Beer, Liquor, Seltzers, & Wine
Liquor Sponsored by Chris Hupe
Vodka Sponsored by Chris Johnson
NOTE: Game Tickets are not included. Please purchase your own Game Tickets Parking is available in the same lot as the tailgate for $30 (cash only)
Link to Register: https://tailgate2025.rsvpify.com/
2025 CHI DEUTERON PIG DINNER 2025 CHI DEUTERON PIG DINNER
Nearly 100 graduate brothers joined 60 undergraduates in Manhattan for the 57 Frank Norris Pig Dinner The weekend was packed with brotherhood and celebration of the outstanding accomplishments of our undergraduate Chi Deuteron Chapter. th
SAVE THE DATE!
Chi Deuteron 58th Pig Dinner
April 24 & 25, 2026
BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT DAVE SCHRECK ‘69
This edition’s Brotherhood Spotlight is a special one Brother Dave Schreck has been instrumental in leading the house over all these years Brother Schreck has served in numerous roles and continues to be active both locally with Chi Deuteron and nationally with Phi Gamma Delta. We’re excited that Brother Schreck agreed to share his story and offer insight for fellow graduate brothers. In Brother Schreck’s own words...
Brothers,
My journey with Phi Gamma Delta b met Fred Bey in the 6 grade th We quickly became best friends. We remained best friends through junior high and high school. I talked him into going to K-State with me starting our junior year in 1967. In the Spring of 1968, he told me he was joining a new fraternity called FIJIs He introduced me to members of the Colony
Because of Fred, I am honored to have been one of the 24 Chi Deuteron Founders when we received our charter from Phi Gamma Delta on September 28, 1968. Today, Fred and I are still best friends and fraternity brothers
Here’s the best part Not only did I nearly 60 years ago who are still my best friends, being a Chi Deuteron FIJI allowed me to meet a Kappa Alpha Theta who has been my Love f
I think I have attended 50 of our 5 privileged to volunteer over 20 years for Phi Gamma Delta. I have served as Purple Legionnaire, our House Corporation Board President, our Board of Chapter Advisor Chair, and for the last four. years, as our Section Leader.
I am fortunate Being retired allows me the time to volunteer Most of you have careers, families, and don’t live close I understand I live in Atlanta
Nowadays, however, if you can spare a couple of hours a year, you can attend dinner with undergrads, tell them what FIJI means to you and go to a chapter meeting.
Or, you can commit to two hours a month on Zoom calls to advise an undergraduate committee chair by serving on the BCA using the skills you have learned over the years
Or, you can share a bit of your treasure ($20 a month) by becoming a regular donor to the Jim Kincaid Scholarship Fund.
PHI GAMMA DELTA IS NOT FOR COLLEGE DAYS ALONE!
Perge!
Dave
FIJI MOTHER’S WEEKEND
At this year’s annual FIJI Mother’s Weekend, the brothers were able to enjoy a laid back and enjoyable weekend with their Moms!
The weekend started off with each class taking their Moms to dinner followed by a karaoke night at a barn in Wamego. The next day provided the always successful and entertaining auction at Manhattan Country Club Many interesting items were sold, including a personalized painting hand-made by one of our very own brothers!
The Chapter was able to raise over $20,600 thanks to the very generous donations of the Chi Deuteron moms! We are extremely grateful for their generosity as the funds raised were put towards remodeling the study room and formal side living room. The weekend was a special time for the FIJI brothers to spend time with our Moms, and we’re already looking forward to another fun Mom’s Weekend next year
FIJI ISLAND WEEK
th th
The 2025 FIJI Island Week was from April 7 to April 11 . Over the course of the week, Chi Deuteron was able to raise almost $1,500 for the United Service Organizations (USO) In addition, over 100 women at K-State registered for Donate Life, a national nonprofit organization focused on increasing awareness for organ, eye, and tissue donation.
Island Week involved a t-shirt signing competition, volleyball tournament, CrowdChange competition, FIJI Car Wash, banner competition and FIJI carnival.
FIJI Car Wash was the biggest event of the week raising over $650 Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Eta chapter was the winning sorority of FIJI Island Week, receiving $1,000 to a philanthropy of their choice and the coveted Island Week Trophy, which they keep for a year until Island Week 2026.
"Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not: unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan ‘Press On!’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race”
Calvin Coolidge 1894
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Gradate Brothers, we want to feature you in a section of future newsletters titled “Where Are They Now?” This is a great opportunity to highlight what you’ve been up to since graduation and reconnect with your brothers.
We’re looking for a brief paragraph or two to include information such as: professional achievement and career milestones, personal updates, current location, and of course, favorite memories from your time at Chi Deuteron.
Please send your information along with a photo to Scott Wilson at scottwilson2387@gmail com
@fijiatksu
facebook.com/KStateFIJI ksufiji.com
@FIJIatKSU