Fraternally Speaking

Fraternally Speaking

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another was inscribed on a pen I received as a college graduation gift. It is a fitting description of the power of relationships built in fraternity. But at twenty-two, I did not realize the profound impact and possibilities of that simple verse.

This month’s cover story features Victor Cui (Alberta 1994), who shares his thoughts on friendships built in fraternity. As Victor attests, we have a unique opportunity to surround ourselves with people who will challenge us to think and act differently and help make us our best – no matter how unreasonable that may seem at a young age.

In this role I have the good fortune of hearing from and visiting with brothers frequently. Over the past several months, that has included a welcome return to in-person events. Those anniversary events and Pig Dinners are refreshing, providing great examples of the power of friendships, brothers reconnecting, and the sincerity with which a man credits his chapter brothers for influencing his life.

Many rightfully look to their brothers when they need someone most. We can all recount times when our brothers surrounded us as we faced life’s most difficult challenges – the loss of a family member, turmoil in our relationships, or an abrupt change in career plans. As Phi Gamma Deltas we not only consider friendship to be the sweetest influence, but also trust that our brothers will cling to us in our greatest times of need – offering a helping hand and sympathizing heart.

While we often appreciate the impact the Fraternity has on its members, we cannot forget those brothers who in turn have profoundly impacted Phi Gamma Delta. Two of those men are remembered in the Ad Astra section of this issue.

Jim Stellar (Occidental 1954, Arizona 1954) served the Fraternity as a Field Secretary, Section Chief, Purple Legionnaire, BCA member and board member for the Educational Foundation, but his service was more than a series of titles. He was a mainstay and source of continuity in southern California for decades, always present wherever brothers gathered to honor the traditions of Phi Gamma Delta. Over the years he stayed connected with the Fraternity and engaged with nearby chapters and brothers, whether in a formal role or as just another brother.

Bill Bracewell (Georgia Faculty 1968) offered more than fifty years of devoted service to the Fraternity and was a pillar of his Kappa Deuteron Chapter. In his many roles, including as Archon Councilor and Educational Director, he emphasized that the development of our undergraduate brothers must be a constant priority. Bill was a shining example of a Fiji Gentleman, always going above and beyond, and putting others’ interests ahead of his own. He genuinely loved his brothers and his Fraternity, serving as a teacher and mentor for countless chapter officers, graduate volunteers and staff members.

By their examples, Jim and Bill remind us today to consider the positive impact we can make in our daily lives, and the opportunity we have each day to espouse our values in service to one another and to our Fraternity.

Rob Caudill, Executive Director