THE
OF PHI KAPPA TAU | VOL. 104, ISSUE 1 | APRIL 2017
A BRAND NEW LOOK THE NEW FACE OF MEN OF DISTINCTION ALSO IN THIS ISSUE P. 6
EXPANDING OUR MISSION P. 10
HALF A CENTURY FIGHTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE P. 12
BY THE NUMBERS
The Laurel is the exoteric publication of Phi Kappa Tau. It was published prior to 1919 as SIDELIGHTS, a journal devoted to topics related to higher education involving college and alumni interests. The previous design of the Laurel existed for nearly a decade and informed members and friends of great success and fraternal devotion. As Phi Kappa Tau has grown and evolved over time, so now does the Laurel. This new design reflects a contemporary approach to our Fraternity publication.
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good and loyal citizen. I shall try always to discharge the obligation to others which arises from the fact that I am a fraternity man. Phi Kappa Tau, by admitting me to membership, has conferred upon me a mark of distinction in which I take just pride. I believe in the spirit of brotherhood for which it stands. I shall strive to attain its ideals, and by so doing to bring to it honor and credit. I shall be loyal to my college and my chapter and shall keep strong my ties to them that I may ever retain the spirit of youth. I shall be a good and loyal citizen. I shall try always to discharge the obligation to others which arises from the fact that I am a fraternity man. Phi Kappa Tau, by admitting me to membership, has conferred upon me a mark of distinction in which I take just pride. I believe in the spirit of brotherhood for which it stands. I shall strive to attain its ideals, and by so doing to bring to it honor and credit. I shall be loyal to my college and my chapter and shall keep strong my ties to them that I may ever retain the spirit of youth. I shall be a good and loyal citizen. I shall try always to discharge the obligation to others which arises from the fact that I am a fraternity man.
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BEING A MAN OF DISTINCTION Ever since that cold day in March, Phi Kappa Tau men have been distinctive members of society. Generals have lead men, comedians have inspired hearts and scientists have served others.
FEATURES 5 INSPIRING OTHERS THROUGH THE LAUREL The Laurel serves as a vehicle to inform, connect and share stories. John Sayers, Bethany ’78, shares his view on how this new design accomplishes those goals and inspires others to communicate clearly. 10 HALF A CENTURY FIGHTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE Discovered in the Phi Kappa Tau archives, a story of Robert L. Meeks and his commitment to peace and social justice. 13 FROM THE CHAPTER ROOM TO THE BOARDROOM Greg Hollen, Maryland ’75, imparts years of wisdom to today’s Phi Tau searching for employment by providing tips for developing effective resumes. 27 SAVE THE DATE FOR CONCLAVE 2017 Come home to where it all began July 14-16, 2017 in Oxford, Ohio.
DEPARTMENTS 4 | Editor's Letter 6 | Expanding Our Mission 7 | Undergraduate of Distinction 9 | Alumnus of Distinction 11 | Chapter of Distinction 12 | By the Numbers 20 | Chapter News 24 | Laurels 28 | Chapter Eternal 29 | Why I Give 30 | Sidelights
On the cover: Bennett Tuleja, Chapman ’14, standing on Bert C.Williams Mall at Chapman University’s campus sporting a new Men of Distinction brand t-shirt.
EDITOR'S LETTER
MAILBOX THE LAUREL IS INTENDED TO START A CONVERSATION with brothers and friends. Content is carefully selected to engage and excite our reader. It is our hope that stories you read start a conversation with those in your life. Any comments are appreciated. The editorial staff has identified a space in this and future editions of the Laurel to publish comments from our readers. You can submit your positive or negative feedback to phikappatau.org/ laurelfeedback. We look forward to starting a conversation. ~
TWEETS FROM FOUNDERS DAY Ryan McKeough @ryanmcq76 111 years ago these 4 men began a great journey. I'm grateful for the brotherhood they created! Happy Founders Day. Veronica Atkins @theitinerantone Happy Founders Day to the gentlemen of @phikappatau! Thank you for allowing me to participate in lifelong learning and ethical leadership. Luke Marzalik @LukeMarzalik Happy Founders Day to the men of @PhiKappaTau. We are brothers now and ever until the day we die. #ProudToBe Sigma Alpha Epsilon @sae1856 On this day in 1906, @PhiKappaTau was founded! Happy Founders day to all members of Phi Kappa Tau!
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EDITOR'S LETTER
IT'S MORE THAN A SLOGAN
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t was a battle on the hardwood. The Georgetown College Tigers were taking on the University of the Cumberlands Patriots. Two top NAIA, Mid-South Region rivals going head-to-head. I’ll admit, NAIA basketball doesn’t draw the largest crowds, but a group of Phi Taus took this opportunity to embark on a road trip. You might think these brothers were a group of undergraduates, but you would be wrong. In addition to myself (a loyal Georgetown alumnus), the group consisted of Foundation Trustee Buzz Green, Ole Miss ’66, CEO Tim Hudson, Truman State ’97, and National Service Advisor Doug Sitzler, Miami ’06 (a proud graduate of Cumberland and one of the honorary initiates during our Centennial Celebration). The Tigers could not overcome the excellent three-point shooting from the Patriots that day, but the experience was what mattered most. During our time on the Georgetown campus, we walked over to the Phi Tau house where I intended to share a few stories from my undergraduate days. When we arrived at the front doors (still adorned by a large painted Coat of Arms), we were greeted by a delegation of chapter members, led by Chapter President Corey Goad, Georgetown ’15. They welcomed us and took us on a tour, and as we walked through the hallways, Corey talked about his vision to grow the membership and improve the chapter. I met Corey two years ago when he was a freshman. The chapter wasn't performing up to standards, and it was evident that a strong leader was needed to right the ship. I could tell right away that Corey was a dedicated individual — a man of character.
Two years later, as I listened to Corey talk about his vision, I noticed that there was something different about this young man — something distinct. Since joining Phi Tau, Corey has availed himself of a multitude of leadership opportunities. He has attended Regional Conferences (three years in a row) and Presidents Academy, and served as a delegate to the 2016 National Convention in Sacramento, California. On campus, he has made a name for himself as a resident director and as a delegate to the Student Government Association. These opportunities, coupled with the priceless experience of being the “CEO” of a growing fraternity chapter caused this man of character to develop into a man of distinction. Corey’s story is not unlike my own. Without Phi Tau, I wouldn’t be where I am now. Little did I know that when I knelt in the lobby of the Delta Theta house, the acceptance of our values — our Cardinal Principles — would alter my life and develop me into the man I am today. Without Phi Tau, I would not have a strong network of brothers, not only from Georgetown but Ole Miss, Truman State, Miami and countless other chapters from coast-to-coast. I venture to guess these two points are true for you. Developing Men of Character into Men of Distinction: It's more than just a slogan; it is who we are.
TYLER C. WASH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PERSPECTIVES
JOHN SAYERS, BETHANY ’78
W
e spend our entire lives communicating with each other, from business emails to PowerPoint presentations, from phone calls to loved ones to posts on Snapchat, and from making a motion in a chapter meeting to having that heart-to-heart talk with your brother during a tough time. I’ve been lucky enough to have spent my entire life as a professional communicator, working on print and electronic publications, websites and social media channels. Through it all, I’ve learned a few lessons:
PHOTO BY SHAWN MILLER
THE ART OF COMMUNICATION
APRIL 2017 VOL. 104, NO. 1
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tyler C. Wash, Georgetown ’06 MANAGING EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Collin A. Zimmerman COPY EDITOR John H. Sayers, Bethany ’78 CONTRIBUTORS Charles T. Ball, Miami ’82 Greg D. Hollen, Maryland ’75 Wm. Tim Hudson, Truman State ’97
• Know your audience. • Meet them where they want to be met. • Give them what they expect. • Then, always give them more. That last one is the key. All the top communicators—the greatest writers, the best broadcasters, the amazing public speakers, the brilliant designers, filmmakers and animators—started out by hitting those first three items with excellence, then making their real mark by the “more” they gave, that personal touch that vaulted them into distinction. What is that “more”? Winston Churchill inspired his nation, then the world to stand against horrible evil through the power of his words. Illustrator Norman Rockwell held up a mirror to his readers and showed them their own charms and foibles. Designers Ray and Charles Eames injected playful whimsy into industrial and home design. The words of agrarian essayist Wendell Berry remind us of what we need to do to be a complete human being. I believe you can discover your own “more” through our brotherhood in Phi Kappa Tau. You should infuse your communications
THE LAUREL OF PHI KAPPA TAU
John Sayers, is public affairs specialist at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., where he has worked on varied projects during his 20-year career, including the Library of Congress Magazine (loc.gov/lcm). He is also the Laurel’s humble copy editor.
with our Cardinal Principals. We have high standards tied to those principals, and each can be directly applied to communications. They will steer your words and lead you to distinction, which each of you will find in your own way. With this latest iteration of the Laurel, while we don’t aspire to Churchill, we do want to serve you and give you more than you’d expect. And in return, we hope to inspire you to communicate clearly, truthfully and in a way that, in turn, will inspire others.
UPCOMING EDITIONS Phi Kappa Tau publishes the Laurel three times a year. Each edition focuses on an aspect of the Phi Kappa Tau experience. The schedule below identifies upcoming delivery dates. Summer edition: July 2017 Fall edition: November 2017; content due August 25 Spring edition: March 2018; content due December 8 ADDRESS CHANGES Visit phikappatau.org/address to update your current mailing information. LAUREL ARCHIVES Past Laurel publications can be found online at phikappatau.org/laurel. Individuals can browse and view all past editions that are available.
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EXPANDING OUR MISSION
CHARTERINGS CLOSINGS
Alpha Chapter Miami University Returning 2019
AS
ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER Colorado State University
GI
GAMMA IOTA CHAPTER Sacramento State University
Epsilon Gamma Chapter The College of New Jersey Returning 2020
Gamma Nu Chapter Rochester Institute of Technology Returning 2020
Z
ZETA CHAPTER University of Illinois
AA
ALPHA ALPHA CHAPTER Michigan State University
COLONIZATIONS
EXPANSIONS
BETA ZETA COLONY
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
New Mexico State University
Richmond, Kentucky
ALPHA IOTA COLONY
NORTH CAROLINA
Iowa State University
STATE UNIVERSITY
Raleigh, North Carolina BOSTON COLONY
Boston University
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
Madison, Wisconsin SOUTH CAROLINA COLONY
University of South Carolina
COLUMBUS STATE COLONY
Columbus, Georgia If you would like to volunteer with one of Phi Kappa Tau’s colonies, visit phikappatau.org/volunteer.
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If you know a young man attending school at one of the institutions, recommend him to Phi Kappa Tau by visiting phikappatau.org/join.
Epsilon Nu Chapter Clemson University Returning 2021
Phi Kappa Tau is committed to offering all of its members a healthy and productive environment to become exemplary members of society and to provide an exemplary presence within their campus communities. If a chapter’s behavior falls below our standards, it is our responsibility to take action. Between March 2016 through February 2017 the above groups were closed for violating the Fraternity’s risk management policies.
UNDERGRADUATE OF DISTINCTION
NATHAN HOFFMAN, ILLINOIS-SPRINGFIELD ’16 POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR SPRINGFIELD, ILL. Nathan Hoffman, Illinois-Springfield ’16, is a man of distinction on campus. He has the unique position of serving the University of IllinoisSpringfield campus population as a student trustee on the university Board of Trustees, where his responsibilities include advocating for student concerns and campus needs during board meetings. Hoffman works closely with the Student Government Association president to meet and represent the UIS student population. His previous leadership positions have included president of the UIS College Republicans, senator on the Student Government Association and a member of the Mock Trial and Model Illinois Government Moot Court teams. In addition to his campus involvement, Hoffman works for Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) to coordinate federal projects within LaHood’s district. Hoffman’s campus and community involvement have taught him the importance of time management. He ensures that his academics remain a priority while juggling a busy calendar. After graduating, Hoffman plans to attend law school and, down the road, run for public office.
PHOTO BY BLAKE WOOD/UIS CAMPUS RELATIONS
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ALUMNUS OF DISTINCTION
RICHARD LUDWICK, EVANSVILLE ’83 PRESIDENT AND CEO, INDEPENDENT COLLEGES OF INDIANA INDIANAPOLIS, IND. Richard Ludwick, Evansville ’83, fills his days serving the 31 private colleges and universities in Indiana. His organization, the Independent Colleges of Indiana, provides a voice for choice and excellence in higher education. In his role, Ludwick identifies ways to maintain the highest academic experience for his member organizations through public policy and collaborative innovation. While an undergraduate member of his chapter, Ludwick learned the importance of working with others. “Never be afraid to start a conversation and learn someone’s perspective,” he recounted. “Working with individuals of varying viewpoints is one of the hallmarks of a successful chapter.” The lessons Ludwick learned at Evansville continue to help him construct coalitions in his professional career. Recently, he was able to develop a program for his members to streamline how they manage human resources. This required the ability to perceive each institution’s individual needs, concerns and perspectives while steering them all towards a common goal. The lessons Ludwick learned at Evansville and at the Independent Colleges of Indiana will serve him well in an exciting new role: This July, Ludwick will move to Houston, Texas, to begin service as the ninth president of the University of St. Thomas, a private Catholic liberal arts institution with more than 3,300 students.
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
CHARLES T. BALL, MIAMI '82
HALF A CENTURY FIGHTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
R
obert L. Meeks, Miami ’06, was the living definition of a man of fine character. Born in a log cabin in Missouri, he entered Miami University as a teenage preparatory student. He was only 16 years old when he joined the group of older students who formed the Non-Fraternity Association on March 17, 1906. At that first meeting, his older peers thought enough of him that they elected him secretary of the organization that would become Phi Kappa Tau. Meeks graduated in 1910 and later earned a Master’s Degree in education from Columbia University. He began a long and distinguished career as an educator and school administrator, first in Butler County, near Oxford, later in Portsmouth, Ohio, and for 32 years as assistant principal of Lakewood High School in suburban Cleveland. Meeks married, raised two sons and was a committed Methodist layman and Mason, where he was a charter member of the Clifton Masonic Lodge. By any measure, Meeks’ commitment to his career in education, his family and his community would have been the very definition of character. But there was much more this man who was once described as being “small in stature but giant in character.” Robert Meeks had a deep commitment
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to peace and social justice which was rooted in his Christian faith which he demonstrated in a very public way. In the early days of the NAACP in Cleveland, Meeks joined the organization to show his support for racial equality. During World War II, he took an unpopular and public stand against the internment of Japanese Americans. This led to derision and hostility from some in his community, and even put his wife and children’s safety at risk, evidenced when a bullet came crashing through a window of their home. He received national attention as a 73-year-old retiree when he joined a group of Methodist laymen and ministers who traveled together to help integrate Methodist churches in Jackson, Mississippi. In November 1963, he and a young Detroit minister named Donald E. Hall attempted to attend a church service at the all-white St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Jackson with another young African-American minister, Woodie White, who would later become the United Methodist Bishop of Indiana. The story of their arrest and jailing was front page news across America, and Detroit Methodist churches raised the money to pay the $1,000 fines to get them released from jail. In January 1964, Meeks was helping a young Arab man to apply for citizenship,
and when the immigration officer asked Meeks if he had ever been arrested, he was able to share the story of his experience in Mississippi with the African-American immigration officer. Before long, Meeks had convinced the officer to come to church with him in Lakewood. Meeks shared the story of his witness in a letter to Martin Luther King, Jr. This story of one of Phi Kappa Tau’s first members continues to resonate as an example of a man of character who truly became a man of distinction.
CHAPTER OF DISTINCTION
EPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY / ORANGE, CALIF. The men of Epsilon Sigma work to develop men of character into men of distinction at Chapman. Of its nearly 60 members, many serve as leaders in areas throughout the Chapman campus. Sam Pinnelas, Chapman ’15, is the president of The Players' Society, a student organization focused on live theatrical performances. Other brothers are involved in welcoming potential students to campus by leading admission tours. The chapter has inspired the hearts of students by hosting a SeriousFun-a-thon week, which includes events and fun activities designed to raise awareness and support for the SeriousFun Children’s Network. The chapter plans to make it an annual event. In addition, Epsilon Sigma brothers regularly serve others in the local community by collecting non-perishable food items for the Anaheim food bank, an ongoing tradition for the past five semesters.
CHAPTER INFORMATION
CAMPUS INFORMATION
CHARTERED: MARCH 21, 1998
ESTABLISHED: 1861
CHAPTER MEMBERS: 59
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT BODY: 6,363
ALUMNI MEMBERS: 290
AREAS OF STUDY: 110
CHAPTER GPA: 2.97
IFC FRATERNITIES: 9
WEBSITE: CHAPMAN.PHIKAPPATAU.ORG
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BY THE NUMBERS
93 1.5 3 13% PHI KAPPA TAU BY THE NUMBERS Phi Kappa Tau continues to offer outstanding leadership opportunities and provide service for the greater good.
MILLION
CHAPTERS AND COLONIES
4,625
INCREASE IN MEMBERSHIP
TOTAL $ RAISED FOR SERIOUSFUN CHILDREN’S NETWORK
UNDERGRADUATE MEMBERS
24 CHARTERS SIGNED, SINCE 2012
97% OF CHAPTERS PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL PROGRAMS
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50 AVERAGE CHAPTER SIZE
FIVE MINUTES WITH...
GREG HOLLEN, MARYLAND ’75
FROM CHAPTER ROOM TO THE BOARDROOM TIPS FOR DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE RESUMES
U
nlike most groups you join in college, Phi Kappa Tau provides you transferable experiences from the chapter room to the boardroom. Using the network of more than 70,000 living alumni to find career opportunities is just the start. In addition, you can highlight your involvement in the chapter on your resume. Greg Hollen, Maryland ’75, shared a few tips to use your Phi Kappa Tau experience as you market yourself: • Many people think of fraternities as pure social clubs. Promote your values-based experiences, your ability to work on a team, and the opportunities Phi Tau has given you for growth. Regardless if you held an officer position, highlight the work you were a part of on campus or in the community. You can enhance your resume by highlighting your participation in philanthropic events and event planning. • No matter what your role in the chapter, you worked with others of differing views towards a common purpose. Emphasize the
complex types of projects completed, number of members you worked with, and communication skills involved in productive teamwork. Showing your successes as part of a team shows your future employer you have the expertise to work collaboratively. • If you attended a Men of Character Program, identify the skills you learned. Phi Kappa Tau’s Men of Character Programs provide graduates with learning outcomes that are transferable to the workplace. • Reflect on leadership positions you held, including committee and elected positions. Think of the skills you gained during this position. Share how these positions relate to your career goals. Phi Kappa Tau provides outlined officer responsibilities for each leadership position. Visit The Exchange for learning outcomes associated with each leadership position.
• Your chapter advisor or BOG chairman will serve as great references. They can talk about your development as a man of character into a man of distinction. When listing references, be sure to include their relationship to you and why they are positive references. • It is likely that the hiring manager is not affiliated with a fraternity or sorority. Have a few notable brothers in mind along with Phi Tau’s tagline prepared to explain why you and your fraternity are distinctive members of society. • Remember, your resume is only intended to get noticed for an interview. Save some of your Phi Kappa Tau experience for the actual interview. You want to show your future employer you are a wellrounded individual.
•P rovide quantifiable information to demonstrate your skills and experiences. Concrete details provide your future employer with a better idea how you could be an asset to the company. If you serve as president, how many men did you lead? If you are philanthropy chair, how many dollars did you raise? • Use these action verbs when you describe your involvement in the chapter: Achieved, Arranged, Assisted, Attended, Chaired, Collaborated, Coordinated, Entrusted, Led, Organized, Planned, Publicized, Ran, Served, Sponsored, Supported, Volunteered.
Greg Hollen, Maryland ’75, has served Phi Kappa Tau in several leadership roles, including National President, Foundation Vice Chairman and Foundation Trustee. Outside of Phi Kappa Tau, Hollen serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the city of Quitman, Texas. He spent most of his career in talent acquisition and human resources for various companies.
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MINI FEATURE
BEING A MAN OF DISTINCTION [14] THE LAUREL || SPRING 2017
FEATURE
IN A SMALL TOWN ABOUT 20 MILES FROM BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS, an adventurous young man is engaged in a personal debate. He is home for the summer and trying to make a choice of whether to finish out his academic career at Ohio Wesleyan University or transfer to a new school to start his junior year.
I
f he transfers, he would have the opportunity to play varsity football and further explore his academic interests in the field of chemistry. However, it would be simpler and more familiar if he returned to Ohio Wesleyan. But the easy choice isn't always the right one. BORRADAILE BOYD Dwight Douglass made the choice to transfer to Miami University in the fall of 1904. Living in the same dorm as new-found friend Taylor Borradaile, the two began developing plans to create the Non-Fraternity Association along with Clinton Boyd and “Doc” Shideler. These four Miami students—our Honored Founders—and the 17 others DOUGLASS SHIDELER who joined them, started a revolutionary new student organization that would grow during the next 111 years, expanding to 156 campuses across the country and including nearly 100,000 members. And ever since that “cold day in March 1906,” Phi Kappa Tau has been developing men of character into men of distinction.
OUR IDENTITY Our Fraternity’s Ritual ceremonies are somber, symbolic, stirring—and secret. There is power within this secrecy, for it calls our membership to action. But it isn’t by our ceremonies but by our actions where we reveal to others the core values of Phi, Kappa and Tau—and where we reinforce them with one another. Our authenticity and timelessness flow directly from these core values. The fact that the Ritual behind these values are known only to members puts special emphasis on our ability to enact what we espouse. Within the secrecy of our Ritual, however, there are limitations. Over the years, Phi Kappa Tau has found several ways to convey our values to various audiences while not revealing the
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FEATURE
Gen. Lenard F. Chapman, Jr., Florida '33, right, with the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon in 1971. Chapman served as Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps.
specifics of the Ritual. Roland Maxwell, Southern California '22, wrote the creed, the mission statement defined our aspirations, and the Constitution and Membership Manual delineated our purposes and objectives, respectively. Each item is important in its own right, and each has its own prudent way of providing a public affirmation. Phi Kappa Tau develops men of character into men of distinction. So the
question naturally follows, “What virtues make up a man of distinction?” Our answer: a man of distinction will lead men, inspire hearts and serve others. Our stories and experiences related to our fraternity experience are very personal. When you assemble these stories of experience and season them with our rich heritage and our poignant Ritual, you find our identity in Phi Kappa Tau.
Leadership begins on campuses, and it continues there today where young Phi Tau leaders are hard at work. The Fraternity experience cannot be separated from leadership development. [16] THE LAUREL || SPRING 2017
A GENERAL'S JOURNEY The Vietnam War enters its twelfth year, and President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration is engulfed in managing the war effort. President Johnson searches for a new Commandant of the Marine Corps after Gen. Wallace M. Greene announced his retirement. Knowing the importance of the job and the vital role it plays as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, President Johnson nominates the Assistant Commandant, a World War II combat veteran who was decorated for his actions in the Battle of Peleliu and the Battle of Okinawa. Upon confirmation by the U.S. Senate, Gen. Leonard F. Chapman, Jr., Florida ’33, became the 24th Commandant of the Marine Corps on January 1, 1968. Gen. Chapman had led men for his entire career. He earned multiple honors,
including three Distinguished Service Medals, two Legions of Merit and the Bronze Star for heroic service during the Battle of Okinawa. His time as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff coincided with the final years of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. During his period in command, he traveled extensively to visit and inspire Marines stationed around the world. Ultimately, he managed the strategic withdraw of Marines from Vietnam. Before his retirement, President Richard M. Nixon presented Gen. Chapman the Navy Distinguished Service Medal. After a long life dedicated to leading men, Gen. Chapman died on January 6, 2000, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. He was eulogized by the 30th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Carl E. Mundy Jr., Auburn ’55, a friend, fraternity brother, and protégé—an example of the direct impact one can have in the life of another brother. LEAD MEN The virtue of leading men can manifest itself in many ways. Our Honored Founders led the Non-Fraternity Association through the early days of existence and created a lasting brotherhood that now spans over a century. Countless Phi Tau men since have distinguished themselves by providing leadership in the military, athletics, business, nonprofits and government service. Coach Pete Newell, UC Berkeley ’58, led the University of California to the 1959 NCAA men’s basketball championship. Jack Anson, Colgate ’47, was the executive director of the North-American Interfraternity Conference. Sen. Mitch McConnell, Louisville ’61, serves as the U.S. Senate Majority Leader. Nickolas Davatze, St. John’s ’60, created and developed the
Patton Oswalt, William & Mary ’89, at the 59th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, Calif.
A&E Network and The History Channel. Leadership begins on campuses, and it continues there today where young Phi Tau leaders are hard at work. From chapter presidents to student body presidents, and from IFC delegates to varsity athletes, the fraternity experience cannot be separated from leadership development. A COMEDIAN'S STRUGGLE Dealing with the untimely death of his beloved wife, a typically funny man struggles to understand. She was only 46 years old and passed away in her sleep. Unquantifiable grief is understandable, but as a dedicated father, he had to remain strong for his 7-year-old daughter. Outside of the responsibility to his daughter, he is in a unique situation. His chosen profession calls for him to make people laugh and to lift their spirits, and he is among the best in his field. Through the struggle, he continues to provide millions of people with an outlet for laughter. He continues his art through Twitter, acting work, and a new stand-up comedy special. After the nominees had been read aloud at the 2017 Grammy Awards
for the Best Comedy Album, it was announced that Patton Oswalt, William & Mary ’89, had won for his Netflix stand-up special, “Talking for Clapping.” Oswalt has inspired hearts through laughter in a long career. As a stand-up comedian, writer, actor and voice actor he has appeared in numerous television shows and movies. Primarily known for his breakout supporting role on the sitcom “The King of Queens” and for voicing Remy in the film “Ratatouille,” his distinct form of humor places him among the great comedians of our time.
The virtue of inspiring hearts is not easily quantified but is universally understood and is at the core of Phi Kappa Tau.
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FEATURE
Whether it be service to the community, to individuals or a universal service, it is basic brotherly kindness. He continues to inspire hearts day in and day out. In true Patton Oswalt fashion, at the end of his Grammy acceptance speech he said, “This has not been a fun year for me and a lot of people, but I’m going to try to be as goofy and obnoxious as I possibly can.” INSPIRE HEARTS The virtue of inspiring hearts is not easily quantified but is universally understood and is at the core of Phi Kappa Tau. It is the basis of true brotherhood. Inspiring others comes not only through laughter but also by instilling knowledge, caring about others and believing in something bigger than yourself. And our Honored Founders provided inspiration to the unaffiliated men at Miami to join together and create the Non-Fraternity Association. Throughout our history, Phi Kappa Tau brothers have inspired hearts.
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O. Frederick Nolde, Muhlenberg ’18, was a human rights pioneer and contributing author of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. Ned Brooks, Ohio State ’22, was the moderator of NBC’s “Meet the Press.” John Dykstra, Cal State-Long Beach ’69, was the special effects lead on the original “Star Wars” film. Leroy Chiao, UC Berkeley ’79,
is a successful NASA astronaut. On campuses, today, you will find young Phi Taus inspiring hearts. From pre-med students to chapter chaplains and from debate team members to university ambassadors, the fraternity experience cannot be separated from the desire to inspire the hearts of our fellow man.
A SCIENTIST'S DISCOVERY A physicist works late in a lab at Stony Brook University. He is among the first scientists to use nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the study of molecules, solutions and solids. He is beginning to apply the same technology to biological organisms. He put his subject—a clam—inside a powerful magnetic field and collects the resulting radio signals that are emitted by atomic nuclei within the tissues. He discovers that by using a static magnetic field and varying the intensity of a second magnetic field across his subjects, he garners clearer signals, allowing better imaging of different tissues. Years later, in 2003, Paul Lauterbur, Case Western Reserve ’48, is awarded a Nobel Prize for his pioneering work in the development of magnetic resonance imaging, better known as MRI. Dr. Lauterbur gave physicians the ability to look inside the human body without
using harmful radiation. Currently, more than 60-million MRI examinations are performed every year. Dr. Lauterbur never stopped teaching and researching. He was a professor of chemistry and radiology at Stony Brook until 1985 and then moved to the University of Illinois, where he remained until his death in 2007. His influence is felt around the world every day, every time an MRI saves a life. His service to others— indeed his service to all of mankind— cannot be understated. SERVE OTHERS The virtue of serving others is fundamental to who we are as Phi Tau men. Whether it be service to the community, to individuals or a universal service, it is basic brotherly kindness. Discharging our obligation to others is the keystone to this service. Phi Taus are not only called to serve one another but to serve their family, their community and their world. And our Honored Founders served the greater good. Without them, you and the nearly 100,000 brothers of Phi Kappa Tau would not have had the fraternal experience we hold so dear. Throughout our history, Phi Kappa Tau brothers have served others. Robert Meder, Miami ’36, gave the ultimate sacrifice to his country as a member of the
Doolittle Raiders of World War II. Actor Paul Newman, Ohio ’43, gave of his time, talent and treasure to found the SeriousFun Children's Network. William Aycock, North Carolina State ’34, was the president of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Sen. John Barrasso, Rensselaer ’71, serves as a U.S. Senator for Wyoming. Young Phi Taus today embrace service like never before. From philanthropy events to book drives and from coaching youth sports to being their brother’s keepers, service is the key differentiator in today’s Phi Tau experience. AUTHENTICITY When Phi Kappa Tau recently set out to find a concise and genuine way to capture the spirit of our Ritual, our creed, our mission, our purposes, our objectives and our current Strategic Plan (Phi Kappa Tau 2020), we found that who we are and what we do have been evident from the beginning. We develop men of character into men of distinction. And we do that by leading men, inspiring hearts and serving others. That's Phi Kappa Tau. This may resonate with you as well. Looking back, it appears that perhaps all of this has felt like “us” from the very beginning.
Developing Men of Character into Men of Distinction Left: The Winter 2004 edition of the Laurel featured Paul Lauterbur, Case Western Reserve ’48, for his pioneering work in developing the MRI. In 2003, Lauterbur was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
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CHAPTER NEWS
CHAPTER NEWS [GAMMA] Gamma chapter at Ohio State raised more than $8,000 for SeriousFun Children’s Network during its annual pumpkin sale. Members also regularly volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club of Columbus. [DELTA] Delta chapter at Centre raised $3,200 for SeriousFun Children’s Network and reported the largest fall recruitment class on campus.
integrity, leadership, good character and social responsibility on campus. Jon Sprague, Coe ’14, received the Governor's Volunteer Award for his service at a local hospital. [UPSILON] Upsilon chapter at Nebraska Wesleyan regularly volunteers with the Tabitha Meals on Wheels. The men of Upsilon also visited Dawes Middle School,
[EPSILON] Epsilon chapter at Mount Union spent several weekends this spring volunteering at Flying Horse Farms, a camp within the SeriousFun Children’s Network. [THETA] Theta chapter at Transylvania regularly volunteers at the local food bank. The chapter also achieved a grade point average of 3.1. [IOTA] Iota chapter at Coe had five members recognized for their academic excellence with a GPA above 3.93. Gibson Odderstol, Coe ’14, received the Clark Merit Scholarship, awarded a student who most exemplifies
PHI CHAPTER
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PSI CHAPTER
where they handed out food to students in need. [PHI] Phi chapter at Bethany hosted its annual campus-wide Red Bison Week, focused on educating the campus community on sexual assault prevention and bystander intervention. The men of Phi also participated in several campus cleanups.
ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER
[PSI] Psi chapter at Colorado teamed up with Chi Omega for its annual Chi O Karaoke event and raised $2,500 for the Make-AWish Foundation. [ALPHA ALPHA] Alpha Alpha chapter at Michigan State chartered with 32 members in January. [ALPHA SIGMA] Alpha Sigma chapter at Colorado State hosted a spooky weekend in October. A scary movie was shown at a local drive-in for the community, with all proceeds from the weekend benefitting SeriousFun Children’s Network. The men also hosted a car wash for the Fort Collins community. [ALPHA TAU] Alpha Tau chapter at Cornell worked to strengthen campus involvement among members. In October, the chapter hosted a 5K campus race. [ALPHA UPSILON] Alpha Upsilon chapter at Colgate hosted a campus-wide service event to educate individuals about Crohn's Disease.
ALPHA OMEGA CHAPTER
[ALPHA PHI] Alpha Phi chapter at Akron hosted several alumni functions throughout the fall athletic season. [ALPHA CHI] Alpha Chi chapter at Mississippi State hosted a haunted trail in October, benefiting SeriousFun Children’s Network and raising more than $6,000. The chapter continues to excel academically, reporting a grade point average of 2.92 and four men at 4.0.
[ALPHA OMEGA] Alpha Omega chapter at Baldwin Wallace has invited brothers from its 75 years to return to campus in May to celebrate its Diamond Anniversary with a weekend of festivities. The chapter has raised more than $4,000 for SeriousFun Children’s Network and logged more than 1,000 service hours.
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CHAPTER NEWS
[BETA ALPHA] Beta Alpha chapter at Texas has achieved a grade point average of 3.3.
hosted a concert benefiting SeriousFun Children’s Network, raising more than $2,000.
[BETA BETA] Beta Beta chapter at Louisville launched “Provide.Konnect.Transform.” The new service initiative focuses on leaving a mark of distinction on the members of the Louisville community.
[GAMMA ALPHA] Gamma Alpha chapter at Michigan Tech volunteered in the 2016 Keweenaw Color Run. The chapter’s service efforts totaled 240 hours in the fall semester. Gamma Alpha received first place in the 2016 Winter Carnival Statue competition. This is the chapters ninth win during the past decade.
[BETA GAMMA] Beta Gamma chapter at Idaho reports the highest Greek grade point average on campus, with a 2.95. The chapter participates in several service activities, including Toys for Tots and splitting wood for local churches.
[GAMMA BETA] Gamma Beta chapter at Cincinnati participated in the campus Relay for Life. In the fall, associate members and chapter officers visited Oxford for a Pride Tour.
[BETA LAMBDA] Beta Lambda chapter at Indiana has achieved a grade point average of 3.2. In the fall, the chapter hosted a pumpkinsmashing philanthropy event. [BETA PSI] Beta Psi chapter at Cal State-Long Beach plans to surpass their previous fundraising goal of $2,500 this spring with the introduction of Red and Gold week on campus benefiting SeriousFun Children’s Network.
[GAMMA BETA] Gamma Eta chapter at East Carolina welcomed graduate brothers to campus for its annual alumni weekend, which included a volleyball tournament to benefit SeriousFun Children’s Network.
DELTA TAU CHAPTER
[BETA OMEGA] Beta Omega chapter at Cal State Chico
GAMMA ALPHA CHAPTER
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ZETA ZETA CHAPTER
[DELTA TAU] Delta Tau chapter at Cal PolyPomona won first place in the campus lip-sync competition. Brothers performed a song compilation themed around recess. [EPSILON BETA] Epsilon Beta chapter at West Virginia Tech won first place for its Homecoming float and played Capture the Flag against a campus sorority. [EPSILON DELTA] Epsilon Delta chapter at Virginia Wesleyan hosted several alumni events centered around campus football. [EPSILON EPSILON] Epsilon Epsilon chapter at William Paterson hosted a community-wide golf outing.
[ZETA IOTA] Zeta Iota chapter at Indiana-Kokomo worked to help clean up their town after a 152-mph tornado ripped through Kokomo in August 2016.
[EPSILON KAPPA] Epsilon Kappa chapter at Rutgers has set the ambitious goal to raise $16,000 during the annual Rutgers Dance Marathon, which benefits cancer research. [EPSILON RHO] Epsilon Rho chapter at Indiana U of Pennsylvania is gearing up for its 20th anniversary celebration. The chapter also hosted a Building Men of Character Retreat. [ZETA ALPHA] Zeta Alpha chapter at Belmont raised more than $6,000 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and $3,500 for SeriousFun Children’s Network during its Rockin’ With
Phi Tau event. The chapter is hosting an alumni event to celebrate its 10th year on campus. [ZETA ZETA] Zeta Zeta chapter at Illinois-Springfield volunteered at Habitat for the Humanity during a campus MLK Jr. Day of Service. [ZETA LAMBDA] Zeta Lambda chapter at Middle Tennessee State provided support for the people of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, affected by the wildfires in December 2016. The men gathered clothing and other necessities to donate to those in need. Several men also worked assisting Sevier County Rescue Squadron first responders.
ZETA LAMBDA CHAPTER
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LAURELS
LAURELS
~ SEN. MITCH MCCONNELL, LOUISVILLE ’61, published “The Long Game: A Memoir,” featuring stories from his more than 30 years in Washington. In June, National Vice President Bill Brasch, Louisville ’67, past National President Charlie Ball, Miami ’82, and members of Beta Beta chapter attended a signing of Sen. McConnell’s new book.
[1948] R.R. Denny Clunk, Mount Union, retired on Dec. 29, 2016 as the longest sitting judge in Ohio after 31 years on the bench. He is past president of the Stark County Bar Association, the Ohio Association of Probate Judges and the National College of Probate Judges and was instrumental in state legislative
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initiatives, including the guardian and adoption reform bills and the Putative Father Registry. [1966] David Anderson, Louisville, retired from Hospital Corporation of America in February after 37 years of service. Few people have had a longer or more distinguished career at HCA and its predecessor companies. In 2006, he helped lead the structuring of the leveraged buyout of HCA, one of the largest transactions of its kind, and in 2011 was part of the team that
led the subsequent initial public offering of HCA. [1967] Bill Schlichtemeier, Nebraska Wesleyan, was recognized as the Cornhusker State Games Russ White Sports Director of the Year. Schlichtemeier has supervised the Cornhusker State Games marksmanship program since 1987 and has played a key role in the growth of the organization. Schlichtemeier oversees a variety of shooting sports during four days of competition in the Cornhusker
[1968] John Shirey, Purdue, completed five years as city manager of Sacramento, California, where he oversaw the completion of the Golden 1 Center in downtown Sacramento, the new home of the Sacramento Kings. [1972] Durward Dunn, Mississippi State, was promoted to the permanent rank of Commander in the United States Navy. Dunn received this honor in February. [1981] Gary Bischof, Bethany, was named dean of the Lee Honors College at Western Michigan University. Bischof began his new role in January. [1982] Jimmy Stubbs, Auburn, was named River Region Living’s Citizen of the Year. He is the CEO of River Bank & Trust and serves on the Board of Directors. [1983] Richard Ludwick, Evansville, will begin service as the ninth president of the University of St. Thomas in Huston. Previously, Ludwick served as president and
CEO of the Independent Colleges of Indiana. [1985] David Kells, Muhlenberg, was featured on NHL.com for his work as the senior vice president of booking for Bridgestone Arena and the Nashville Predators. Kells is responsible for booking some of the largest names in music including Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney and Eric Church.
JAY CARNES, CENTRE ’04, received the Young Associate of the Year from his campus. A highly involved student leader, Carnes held a leadership position with the Centre Christian Fellowship, competed on the track team, was a student member of the residence life staff and named Homecoming king his senior year. He has continued to maintain his commitmenet to the College since graduating in 2007. A prior recipient of the Young Associate of the Year Award was Ewing T. Boles, Centre ’14. ~
State Games. The list of events includes .22 pistol, centerfire pistol, .22 rifle prone, .22 rifle silhouette and high-powered rifle.
[1988] Eric Strauss, Kent State, and wife Nicole welcomed the birth of their son Jack in May 2016. [1989] Patton Oswalt, William & Mary, took home the award for Best Comedy Album at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards for "Talking for Clapping." His stand-up special can be found on Netflix. [1991] Stephen Rupprecht, Oswego State, was recognized with the 2016 Dissertation of the Year by the Association for Student Conduct Administration during its annual meeting. The phenomenological dissertation explored the identification of faculty characteristics and environmental factors that influence reporting of academic misconduct. Rupprecht serves the Drexel University community as the assistant dean of student conduct and community standards.
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LAURELS
~ JUSTIN REZVANI, CAL POLYPOMONA ’09, was recognized as a member of Forbes 30 Under 30. Rezvani founded a profitable influencermarketing platform, theAmplify, with a daily reach of more than 500 million in 2013. The tech platform enables brands to work seamlessly with content creators all around the world. Clients include Coty, Nestle, Taco Bell, Ford and Unilever.
[1994] Gabe Uebel, Eastern Kentucky, received the 2016 President's Award from the Anderson County, Kentucky, Chamber of Commerce. He is the president of Splatter Inc. [2003] Zack Wolfe, Georgetown, and wife Kara celebrated the birth of their first child, Harvey Kenneth, in November 2016. [2006] Michael Kowalski, Case Western Reserve, was appointed the director of food and beverage for the Napa Valley Wine Train. [2007] Jordan Blair, Southern California, was recognized as the 2016 Sacramento Business Journal's 40 Under 40 class.
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[2007] Garrett Bewkes, Colgate, was named as the sixth publisher of the National Review. Bewkes brings with him knowledge of new media and worked for the New York Post prior to joining the National Review.
~ ANDY DULMAN, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ’12, completed his tenure are national president of Delta Kappa Alpha, a national professional cinema fraternity.
[2008] Phil Frandina, RIT, and wife Jessica celebrated the birth of their first child, Jack Mason, in November 2016.
[2013] John Gruccio, Murray State, was named director of WPSD News Channel 6 in Paducah, Kentucky.
[2008] James Basey, Florida, married Emily Molnar in Long Boat Key, Florida, in December 2016.
[2013] Jordan Tarver, Cal StateFullerton, launched Upward Web Designs, a website development company.
[2012] Steven Solowsky, Rochester, married Danni Brancaccio in Atlanta, Georgia, in November 2016.
[2014] Jay Marion, Southern Mississippi, was employed as a character performer at Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts.
COME HOME TO WHERE IT ALL BEGAN.
PHI KAPPA TAU CONCLAVE OXFORD, OHIO | JULY 14-16, 2017 VISIT PHIKAPPATAU.ORG/CONCLAVE FOR INFORMATION. THE LAUREL || PHIKAPPATAU.ORG [27]
CHAPTER ETERNAL
CHAPTER ETERNAL The following members were reported deceased to the Executive Offices between October 1, 2016 and January 31, 2017.
MIAMI Charles R. Hazelrigg ’53 William L. Hidy ’53 Paul A. Landfair ’55 OHIO James E. Barron ’47 William H. Henry ’47 William G. Lydic ’56 Howard W. Mansell ’59 Richard E. Sontag ’62 OHIO STATE Monty K. Blatt ’57 Harold L. Stelzer ’48 Donovan L. Tugend ’48 CENTRE Hughes O. Old ’52 MOUNT UNION Mont C. Hollingsworth ’69 Arthur E. Oberster ’48 COE James W. Beckman ’61 Michael R. Knipp ’82 LAWRENCE John A. Felker ’46 UC BERKELEY James W. Barrons ’57 Andrew M. Kritscher ’61 FRANKLIN & MARSHALL Theodore P. Crusius ’45
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PENN STATE Donald B. Meakin ’65 David L. Miller ’75
CASE WESTERN RESERVE Roland R. Graham ’66
MISSISSIPPI STATE James F. Thompson ’61 Bill I. Ware ’60
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Timothy V. Perryman ’71
FLORIDA R. D. Simmons ’68
TEXAS-EL PASO William C. Mohrhauser ’56 Charles L. Orndorff ’48
RENSSELAER Robert C. Fay ’44 MICHIGAN Vernon C. Emerson ’51 Arthur K. Stade ’50 NEBRASKA WESLEYAN John Cunningham ’57 William W. Johnston ’41 BETHANY Fred Angelis ’47 Paul Raub ’82 NORTH CAROLINA STATE Harry A. Osborne ’55 COLORADO Fred Reisbick ’56 MICHIGAN STATE George E. Clute ’53 Michael D. Ryski ’94 DELAWARE Francis J. Bisio ’56
WILLIAM & MARY Cary Anderson ’56 H R. Hardy ’61 Herbert Silverman ’56 Daniel W. Zipperer ’56 AUBURN William H. Harris ’54 OHIO WESLEYAN Neil E. Bantly ’49 John D. Bennett ’51 Harrison E. Bordner ’55 IOWA STATE Paul R. Ombruni ’48 WASHINGTON Lawrence D. Beck ’46 COLORADO STATE David M. Ennis ’59 Harold C. Wisecup ’49 CORNELL Charles S. Einsiedler ’32 COLGATE Elmer T. Nelson ’38 Clarke Russ ’51
GEORGIA Lee J. Berman ’85 Randy M. Looper ’68 Neil F. Morgan ’70 BOWLING GREEN Robert B. Maule ’51
BALDWIN WALLACE Dennis P. Esser ’46 Donald G. Falkner ’47 Gene D. Miller ’48 Robert L. Peterka ’44 Norman E. Temple ’43 Herman W. Werme ’46 Richard M. Winter ’50
WESTMINSTER Dale E. Miller ’56
TEXAS John E. Cahoon ’53
WESTERN MICHIGAN Roger C. Theder ’62
LOUISVILLE Don B. Eads ’50 Robert B. Ford ’66 Michael D. Neely ’60 Earl O'Bannon ’53
RIT Stanley D. McKenzie ’69
U OF MIAMI Ben E. Osking ’54
TEXAS STATE James O. Darling ’68
SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI Carmelo F. Azcuy ’80
EVANSVILLE Kerry L. Driggers ’68
KANSAS James V. Riley ’56
MICHIGAN TECH Theodore A. Grzelak ’58 ST. JOHN'S John J. McKenna ’60
DELTA STATE John T. Alford ’71
WHY I GIVE
I
t was all chance. One Sunday morning, as I was walking out of my dorm room on the way to church, Jon Spahr, Miami ’58, was doing the same. We decided to attend together. We became fast friends and later joined that group of nonconformists, Phi Kappa Tau. Both Jon and I knew Phi Kappa Tau was something bigger than the both of us. We learned that if you want to go far, you go together. Four men started this association, but they brought others with them. The idea that we are standing on the shoulders of those who came before us was not lost on me. Sixty years ago, I walked through the threshold of the Alpha house. Some of the best friendships I have ever built were in the chapter. To this day, I look forward to reconnecting with this group of men during reunions. They provided me great
experiences and a library of colorful memories. I am honored to call them my friends and fraternity brothers. I am standing on the shoulders of those who came before me. I benefited from their generosity as a student. When Carol and I started our estate planning, we knew Phi Kappa Tau would be named as a beneficiary. Looking back, Phi Kappa Tau shaped me to be the successful member of society I am. It was the place where I felt at home when I was away from my family. I want to ensure that future generations of Phi Kappa Tau brothers will have the same transformative experience that I did. You can, too. Reverend Cal Klumb, Miami ’58, is retired. He lives with his wife, Carol, in Oxford, Ohio. Both are engaged in the local community and reconnect with other Phi Tau alumni on Miami’s campus during athletic events.
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SIDELIGHTS
SIDELIGHTS LEADERSHIP MESSAGE
Phi Kappa Tau 2020: Focusing Our Vision is Phi Kappa Tau’s strategic plan. Created by the National Council and Executive Offices staff, the plan was ratified in 2016 by the 62nd National Convention in Sacramento, Calif. The plan focuses the organization on five strategic imperatives.
GOVERNANCE RECRUITMENT/RETENTION EDUCATION LEADERSHIP SERVICE Giving back to Phi Kappa Tau is one of the finest traditions of our Fraternity. With strong strategic plans in place for both the Fraternity and Foundation, it is an exciting time to be a Phi Tau. Support the mission, vision and strategic direction of our Fraternity by donating today. You will be glad you did!
phikappatau.org/2020
WELCOME BACK SIDELIGHTS
B
efore the introduction of the Laurel in 1919, Phi Kappa Tau’s major publication was Sidelights. In the very early stages, Sidelights was produced by the National Phrenocon Association as its magazine and after the development of the Laurel, the National Fraternity used Sidelights as a vehicle for the Grand Secretary (now CEO) to distribute secret information to the brotherhood. As a special part of the newly designed Laurel, I am happy to say that—once again—Sidelights is back as a part of this publication. However, brothers are not directed to destroy it after reading, as with the previous distribution containing secrets! Sidelights will address topics, news and information about the National Fraternity which we believe to be of interest to our brothers. It will also be a place for national leadership to provide perspectives about the state of our Fraternity (visit phitau.co/sof2017 to gain information on the current state of our Fraternity). I look forward to sharing a variety of perspectives with you throughout the next several issues of our magazine. As for this issue, I simply want to say how proud I am of Phi Kappa Tau. I am very fortunate to work with an outstanding group of volunteer leaders and a high caliber professional staff as the Fraternity executes our strategic plan, Phi Kappa Tau 2020. While I share pride with our team around the significant strides Phi Kappa Tau is making at the national level—most importantly I am proud of the great work being done locally by our volunteer and undergraduate leaders! A phrase we hear often around Phi Tau is, “Proud to be.” And this certainly rings true for me today.
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WM. TIM HUDSON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
NEWS & NOTEWORTHY Presidents Academy Presidents Academy is designed for new presidents to gain deeper understanding of the responsibilities of a chapter president. During the first weekend in January, Phi Kappa Tau hosted the largest group of presidents in Presidents Academy history. The 80 men learned to run effective chapter meetings, lead an effective Executive Council, create constructive relationships beyond the Resident Council and take positive action during challenging times. Participants also created connections with chapter and Fraternity leaders, enhanced their communication skills and left with a plan for positive change in their chapters. Volunteer Development Institute The Volunteer Development Institute is a three-day program designed for volunteers who work directly with chapters. The institute is focused on how to work with today’s college students, as well as providing volunteers with an intensive understanding of the national
DIRECTORY NATIONAL PRESIDENT Michael Dovilla Baldwin Wallace ’94 mdovilla@phikappatau.org
organization and all related policies. The 26 participants left with an increased confidence and understanding of how to advise a chapter and provide support to undergraduate students. Regional Conferences Phi Kappa Tau hosted nine Regional Conferences from late January through February on campuses across the country. The day-long conferences focused on preparing officers to be effective in their roles throughout the year, while providing additional members training for chapter leadership.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Foundation Board Meeting Philadelphia, Pa. [April 28] Leadership Academy Session 1: Oregonia, Ohio [June 1-4] Session 2: Mentone, Calif. [June 15-18] Session 3: Eatonton, Ga. [June 27-30] National Council Board Meeting Oxford, Ohio [July 13] Conclave Oxford, Ohio [July 14-16] Ewing T. Boles Society Dinner Oxford, Ohio [July 14] John M. Green Golf Classic Oxford, Ohio [July 16]
Joint National Council/ Foundation Board Meeting Cleveland, Ohio [Oct. 20-21] Presidents Academy Dallas, Texas [Jan. 2018] Volunteer Development Institute Dallas, Texas [Jan. 2018] Regional Conferences Various Locations [Feb. 2018] 63rd National Convention Cleveland, Ohio [July 11-15, 2018] If your chapter is hosting an anniversary celebration, alumni event or other major event, submit the event to communications@phikappatau.org for publication in the Laurel or website.
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Bill Brasch Louisville ’67 bbrasch@phikappatau.org FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN Dick Michael Michigan Tech ’70 dmichael@phikappatau.org FOUNDATION VICE CHAIRMAN Greg Heilmeier Bethany ’86 gheilmeier@phikappatau.org CEO Tim Hudson Truman State ’97 thudson@phikappatau.org FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Tyler Wash Georgetown ’06 twash@phikappatau.org COO Travis Robinson Eastern Kentucky ’98 trobinson@phikappatau.org
Contact information for the Executive Offices Staff, Fraternity National Council, Foundation Board of Trustees, National Advisors, Domain Directors and Educational Deans can be found online at phikappatau.org/connect.
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PHI KAPPA TAU FOUNDATION Ewing T. Boles Executive Offices 5221 Morning Sun Road Oxford, OH 45056 Change Service Requested
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID OXFORD, OH PERMIT # 13
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