The Laurel - Spring 24

BROTHERHOOD THE POWER OF BROTHERHOOD

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE A GRAMMY AWARD WINNING ARTIST

It’s no great secret that 2023 was a year of change for Phi Kappa Tau, and now that we’ve settled into a promising new year, the buds of those changes have begun to blossom. Kicking the year off with an amazing Zenith Officer Institue, which flowed right into the reestablishment of Regional Conferences was the jump start that will continue to propel our brotherhood to an amazing 2024. A renewed focus on Mental Health will act to further emphasize the need to be our brother’s keeper. The progress keeps compounding, and this issue of the Laurel will display all that our Fraternity has to be proud of.

(Above, and on the cover) Epsilon Nu brothers at the chartering of their Chapter

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.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Phi Kappa Tau has a renewed focus on mental health issues—including the establishment of a Mental Health Committee and a free 24/7 365 Crisis Text Line. This feature dissects why these issues are so prevalent today, and how they’ve plagued men of all ages and within the fraternity system for far too long. Calling on a re-imagining of the brother’s keeper mentality, Boys Don’t Cry, is call to action for not only brothers of Phi Kappa Tau, but around the world.

6 UAB SPOTLIGHT

The Undergraduate Advisory Board acts as the voice for our undergraduate members in national matters. These men dedicate their time and talents to making sure that our National Council know what is pressing and important on campuses around the country. In this piece you’ll get to know the leaders of our UAB and why they feel the role is crucial to our fraternity’s success.

10 JOEL RUDY MEMORIAL

Former Chief Executive Officer, Joel Rudy, Bethany ’60, was among the most devoted and accomplished brothers of Phi Kappa Tau. In this piece we honor Rudy—who entered the Chapter Eternal in December 2023—and his work for Phi Kappa Tau and across a number of higher education institutions.

12 FIVE MINUTES WITH

Grammy Award winning artist, Kitt Wakeley, East Central OK ’87, takes the time to answer questions about his career as a composer and musician; his time as an undergraduate member of Phi Kappa Tau, and how it impacted his life; and blending real-life experiences with art.

15 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING

2024 not only kicked off with an amazing Zenith Officer Institute, but also saw the resurgence of Regional Conferences. Catch up on our transformative educational programs and the impact they have had on our undergraduates!

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THE LAUREL

IS INTENDED TO START A CONVERSATION with brothers and friends. Content is carefully selected to engage and excite our readers. It is our hope that stories you read start a conversation with those in your life. Any comments are appreciated. You can submit your feedback— positive or negative, we want it all—to phikapptau.org/ laurelfeedback

SIDELIGHTS

Sidelights is the official newsletter of the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity and Foundation. Releasing on the 15th of each month, Sidelights is a compilation of stories and updates for Phi Kappa Tau alumni and undergraduates to gain some insight into the ongoings of the Fraternity and Foundation.

If you are not receiving Sidelights and would like to sign up, visit phikappatau.org/update-info to be added to the mailing list.

My brothers, In the eight-plus months since my election as your President, I have been privileged to immerse myself in our brotherhood. I have witnessed first-hand our undergraduate and alumni brothers across the country live out our Phi Tau Creed. From my time visiting chapters in the western states of California, Arizona, and Colorado, chapters in the eastern states of Georgia, West Virginia, and North and South Carolina, and chapters in numerous states in between, I have engaged in countless hours of meetings, visits, conferences, conversations, and other forms of communication with undergraduate and alumni brothers. I have engaged extensively with our National Council, National Headquarters, volunteers, and our fraternity’s Foundation. In short, I have come to witness in real time a huge part of the world of current-day Phi Tau across our country and how we are living out our brotherhood. Or, said differently, I have been able to see in a very real way how we are loving each other as brothers.

Love – a word that all too often is not used or applied enough within the sphere

of our fraternal parlance. Yet, in my view, love is the root of our existence; the force behind our individual and combined spirit of brotherhood; the cord that is powerful enough to bind us together through the entirety of our fraternal existence together –if we choose to embrace it.

As I have journeyed through this blessed opportunity, I constantly mull over and over in my mind the state of our great fraternity. In the process, I wind up asking myself two central questions all the time:

• In our Creed, we affirm that we believe in the spirit of brotherhood – So, how am I really doing as a brother?

• How are we doing as a brotherhood with each other?

These two questions usually beg several additional questions:

• How should I define “brotherhood”? That is, what attributes are included in my, and our, definition of “brotherhood”?

• Does the definition of brotherhood include “love” for each other?

• How about compassion? Does “brotherhood” include having compassion, even for those brothers who I feel have not acted appropriately?

• Does my definition of “brotherhood” affect how I speak about a brother?

• Should I give a brother the courtesy of a benefit of the doubt? Encouragement?

• Does “brotherhood” affect how I treat my brother in my communications, social media posts, and decisions?

• How patient am I with my brother?

• Does it call for me to forgive my brother, and act like I do?

• In what ways am I demonstrating love to all my brothers, not just the ones I like?

• In my definition of brotherhood, am I living out the commitment I make each time I say our Creed?

This issue of our Laurel focuses on our brotherhood in very raw and real ways. It includes a tribute to Brother Joel Rudy (now resting peacefully in Chapter Eternal), a man who exemplified the model of loving service to his brothers. It includes Brother Dalton Lee tackling head-on the issue of our brotherhood’s mental health and emotional wellness. In reading through these offerings, it inspires me to reflect again on how I consider, treat, talk about, and think about every one of you, my brothers to whom I have devoted my heart.

I want our national brotherhood to be a place where I can be completely vulnerable – a place where I can learn from all of you, cry with all of you, enjoy and encourage your accomplishments, have conflict with you on some issues but know that we both want

the same thing: to grow closer through the difficult emotions, trusting that we both are committed to being loving brothers with each other. I want to feel safe with all of you. I want us to be kind to each other, kind to each other’s faces as well as kind behind each other’s backs. I know all of this is possible because I have experienced it with brothers, even those who I have had difficulty with. I believe we can be that at a national level –all of that. Is this all too idealistic? I’m guessing some of you may think so. But I completely believe it can happen. It was this type of relationship why we all wanted to join this great fraternity!

As I continue to reflect on the questions italicized above so as to grow closer to that ideal, I encourage and invite you to join me in this same type of reflection – to join me in asking ourselves the questions listed above and embracing a more full and loving perspective about each other and our brotherhood.

In the spirit of brotherhood,

MIKE MCCRUM

CONTRIBUTORS

Charlie Ball, Miami ‘82

Matty Staib, Grand Valley State ’24

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. Fall 2024;

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LAUREL ARCHIVES

Past Laurel publications can be found online at phikappatau.org/laurel. Individuals can browse and view all past editions that are available.

EMPOWERING UNDERGRADUATE VOICES: THE ROLE OF UAB MEMBERS IN PHI TAU'S FUTURE

BY MATTY STAIB, GRAND VALLEY STATE ’24

In a landscape view of Phi Kappa Tau, the Undergraduate Advisory Board (UAB) stands as a structure of advocacy, bridging the gap between the aspirations of undergraduates and the strategic decisions of the National Council (NC). Comprised of dedicated members such as Keegan Tingle, Louisville ’22; William Hellier, Longwood '21; Chris Keeble, Florida ’22; James Johnson, Virginia Wesleyan ’21; Jonas Ardillo, Baldwin Wallace ’20; and Ryan Miller, Muskingum ’21—the UAB embodies the spirit of service and empowerment within the fraternity.

What Drives Advocacy?

For Keegan Tingle, the primary goal of his role is clear:

amplifying undergraduate voices within Phi Tau. Tingle sees the UAB as a pivotal platform to address undergraduates' concerns on a national scale, ensuring that the fraternity's support system is finely tuned to meet their evolving needs. Tingle passionately states, "Being able to advocate for fellow undergraduates and speak to the National Council and Executive Offices helps to improve Phi Tau as a whole and make sure that the undergrads are getting the support they need."

What Fuels Chapter Growth?

William Hellier navigates the UAB with a focus on fostering chapter growth. Why? For collective prosperity. Hellier believes that understanding what works and what doesn't

for individual chapters is crucial for Phi Tau's continuous evolution. In his opinion, accomplishing this involves sharing insights, optimizing operations, and ensuring that every chapter is equipped with the knowledge needed to thrive.

What Connects National and Local?

Chris Keeble’s mission centers around creating stronger connections between the National Council and undergraduates. Keeble aims to bridge the gap by helping undergraduates comprehend the intricate workings behind the scenes.

To Keeble’s understanding, a lot of undergraduate brothers don’t understand the nitty-gritty of running a fraternity and the process of making decisions for the entirety of the organizations. Providing the knowledge and bridging the gap will result in a more cohesive and stronger community.

What Supports Diverse Chapters?

in many ways." He hopes to create lasting change for chapters of all sizes.

What Ensures Undergraduate Voices?

For Ryan Miller, president of the UAB, providing a voice for undergraduates has been the primary mission of his time in this position. Miller envisions the UAB as a bridge, ensuring that the National Council comprehends the nuances of undergraduates' experiences. This involves actively engaging with chapters, fostering understanding, and making the UAB a resource accessible to all undergraduates.

James Johnson is dedicated to advocating for smaller colleges and supporting diverse chapters. Johnson's experience as a chapter leader and re-charter member drives his goal of creating support structures tailored to diverse chapter needs. Johnson emphasizes, "Fraternity experience looks different for those guys, and sometimes decisions made affect different chapters

Being able to advocate for fellow undergraduates and speak to the National Council and Executive Offices helps to improve Phi Tau as a whole and make sure that the undergrads are getting the support they need.

Collectively, these dedicated individuals embody the meaning of what it is to be a leader of Phi Kappa Tau: a commitment to brotherhood, growth, and service. Through their advocacy and leadership, they pave the way for a future where undergraduate voices are not only heard but valued and empowered within the fraternity. As Phi Tau continues to evolve and thrive, the UAB remains an essential pillar, ensuring that the fraternity's legacy is defined not only by its past achievements but also by the voices and aspirations of its future leaders.

TThis past summer, Phi Kappa Tau held its historic 65th National Convention in the desert oasis, Las Vegas, Nevada. The event was one for the ages, laying the groundwork for many exciting developments rolled out by the Fraternity throughout the past seven months.

his past summer, Phi Kappa Tau held its historic 65th National Convention in the desert oasis, Las Vegas, Nevada. The event was one for the ages, laying the groundwork for many exciting developments rolled out by the Fraternity throughout the past seven months.

Catch up on all updates from the 65th National Convention:

Catch up on all updates from the 65th National Convention:

• Phi Kappa Tau grew by 25% year-over-year, aided by growth strategies and resources put in place by our Executive Offices and National Council

• Phi Kappa Tau grew by 25% year-over-year, aided by growth strategies and resources put in place by our Executive Offices and National Council.

• Chapters were awarded a grant to cover the cost of the educational fee on their Fall 2023 bill—reimbursing them for the missed educational program.

• The Phi Kappa Tau Foundation awarded the Fraternity a $300,000 grant, that among other things, reduced the cost of Educational Programs for our undergraduate members.

• Regional Conferences returned, giving undergraduate men additional opportunities for education and development.

• Regional Conferences returned, giving undergraduate men additional opportunities for education and development.

• Implementation of transparency documents—an unprecedented move for the Greek life industry—giving access to all those who wish to review them via the Phi Kappa Tau portal

• Implementation of transparency documents—an unprecedented move for the Greek life industry—giving access to all those who wish to review them via the Phi Kappa Tau portal.

• National President, Mike McCrum, Texas State ’75, has been spearheading the creation of committees to address all our fraternity’s needs

• National President, Mike McCrum, Texas State ’75, has been spearheading the creation of committees to address all our fraternity’s needs.

• Groundbreaking launch of our 24/7 365 Crisis Text Line, available to all of our brotherhood

• Groundbreaking launch of our 24/7 365 Crisis Text Line, available to all of our brotherhood.

Muskingum's Maxwell recipient speech

Newly elected National President Mike McCrum and National Vice President Michael Lummus

Joel S. Rudy, Bethany ’60, Phi Kappa Tau’s chief executive from 1998 until 2002 died on December 23, 2023, at the age of 82. With his passing, Phi Kappa Tau and the North American College Fraternity system lost one of its staunchest advocates and most important leaders. He was a member of the inaugural class inductees into the Phi Kappa Tau Hall of Fame and was a recipient of the Fraternity’s highest recognition, the Palm Award.

Remembering One of Phi Tau’s Most Dedicated Leaders JOEL RUDY

During his four years at the helm of Phi Kappa Tau, he is credited with refining its mission statement, expanding educational programming, strengthening the relationship between the Fraternity and Foundation, and with overseeing the move of the Fraternity and Foundation to the current Executive Office. A lasting tribute to Joel is the custom calligraphy image of the Phi Kappa Tau Creed and coats of arms that Joel and his wife, Marlene commissioned and donated to the Fraternity which now hang in the Executive Office conference room.

In addition to his role as chief executive, Joel served Phi Kappa Tau in volunteer roles as National Education Advsor, National University Relations Advisor, and as a trustee of the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation.

While Joel’s relationship with Phi Kappa Tau spanned more than six decades, he came to its national leadership late in his career—following a distinguished 22-year career as the highly-respected and beloved Dean of Students at Ohio University, retiring in 1998 as Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean Emeritus. He is the only Phi Tau chief executive to come from a higher education background and that important perspective gave him a distinctive voice in Phi Kappa Tau and in the interfraternity community.

He began his Phi Tau journey as an undergraduate at Bethany College in West Virginia, a long way, geographically—and culturally—from his Brooklyn, New York home. After an unhappy experience in another fraternity’s pledge program, Phi Chapter welcomed him, elected him president for two terms

and made him feel as though he was a part of something larger than himself. It also connected him with a brotherhood that would expand to Ohio and across the country.

He earned a master's degree in Sociology at Kent State University and assumed increasing responsibility in administrative roles at Hunter College in New York, the University of Miami in Florida, and back at Kent State. He earned a certificate in educational management at Harvard University.

When his career took him to Ohio University in 1976 as a student affairs administrator, he soon adopted Beta Chapter as his own and Phi Taus at OU welcomed him, just as Phi Chapter had. Because of the positive impact Phi Kappa Tau had on his undergraduate career, he remained a vocal and unapologetic proponent of Greek life during his career. While many college administrators shy away from active involvement with their own fraternities or sororities, Joel leaned into his engagement with Phi Kappa Tau and was an active and supportive advisor and member of the Beta Chapter Board of Governors and house corporation. And he became a trusted confidant to Beta Chapter alumni and undergraduates alike.

For all his professional accomplishments, Joel will probably be best remembered for his humanity and his ability to nurture and empower legions of students as well as colleagues, friends, and family.

One of the Beta Chapter brothers who called Joel a “surrogate father” was Rick Harrison, Ohio ’79. In remembering Joel, he noted that “Along with Barry Worthing, John Good, and just a few others, Joel was key in our survival when we were most fragile in the late 1970s” When the chapter reached such a low point that it was forced to sell its historic home at 50 East State Street, Joel was “key in getting us the house at the top of Jeff Hill” which they rented from the University until they were able to re-purchase their State Street home.

Harrison, now Senior Director of Development at Ohio State University’s College of Arts and Sciences, who later worked as a development officer for Joel at Ohio University, reflected on the mark he left on colleagues in remarks at Joel’s retirement: “those of us fortunate enough to be your colleagues benefited from your nurturing and your caring, just as students did. You provided a magnificent role model: from you we learned how to be competent and capable administrators, while keeping ethics, integrity, and decency at the forefront. Even if we did not have the good fortune of working for you, you made us feel that we were part of the same team, that we shared common goals, and that we were bound, above all, by a love for this place and a constant commitment to its success.”

Another Phi Tau brother who considered Joel both a surrogate parent and professional mentor is Brian Breittholz, Ohio ’83. Now executive director of alumni relations for the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Breittholz reflected on his long relationship with Joel saying, “Words cannot accurately express my feelings of loss and the feelings of so many former students who looked to Joel for guidance and support. Many of us in higher education trace our roots to Joel and wanted to ‘grow up and be Dean Rudy.’ I was privileged to have a 40-year close relationship with Joel and Marlene, my “adopted” parents. At every life milestone, they were there. In good times and in bad, they were there. His passing is profound.”

Joel is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Marlene, a member of Delta Gamma; daughter Lisa; son Brian, daughterin-law Julia, and grandsons Nathan and Owen; sister-in-law Francine; nieces Ilene Rudy-Slatkin, Adriene Fern, Nina Ferreira, and Allison Venter; and nephew Hal.

Joel’s family is planning a celebration of his life later this spring.

KITT WAKELEY, EAST CENTRAL OK ’87

GRAMMY AWARD WINNER

When did your passion for music and composing begin? My original music path was typical. I started out in elementary school learning how to play the trumpet and developed a talent for it. However, keyboards and guitar started to dominate my interest as I got older. In high school I joined my first rock band, and we recorded a song that was embraced by the largest rock station in the Oklahoma market. It was a euphoric moment to hear my music come together in the studio, but more euphoric when others were able to enjoy it on the radio. The affirmation of being able to write music set the course for me.

Although I played in numerous bands over the years, I enjoyed the creative process writing and recording. Eventually, I started getting the chance to write for media outlets on radio and TV. This led to requests to include orchestral elements. As my resume grew, more opportunities opened. I used this experience to begin bigger productions, which has led me to my current place in my music career.

From winning your first Grammy to recording albums at the historic Abbey Road Studios, you’ve had a truly spectacular career. What moment(s) stands out to you as your biggest achievement so far? There’s no doubt that winning a Grammy is my greatest achievement as a musician. I’ve experienced moments such as selling out Carnegie Hall and other large ven-

ues, along with Billboard ones. The adventures of my career and lifestyle have created experiences that I never thought a small-town kid could ever imagine. However, even with all of that, I truly mean that my greatest achievement is my family. I’m blessed with an amazing wife and six beautiful children.

Going back to your time as an undergraduate at East Central, what compelled you to join Phi Kappa Tau? As I explored various fraternities on campus, I was drawn to the Phi Kappa Tau brotherhood for numerous reasons. They had a genuine aura about them. Everyone was extremely kind and made me feel comfortable. I noticed that the student body and other

Use the tools that you are developing as a Phi Tau in everything you do in life. Regardless of whether you pursue music or some other passion, you must be equipped and prepared. Being a Phi Tau gives you an advantage.

fraternities had tremendous respect for the Phi Taus. Therefore, I wanted to be part of something special. The friendships developed quickly, and I’ve been proud to be a part of an amazing group of brothers.

Did your time in Phi Kappa Tau have any effect on your decision to pursue a career in music? Absolutely. I was in bands while in college and

I was always inviting my brothers to come see me play. They were extremely supportive and would show up to have a good time. In fact, they hired my band to perform at one of the annual parties. That goes a long way in establishing confidence. There are numerous things that my brothers could have been doing on a weekend, but I was always appreciative that they chose to come see us perform.

Kitt performing with the Symphony of Sinners and Saints.

In fact, one of the members eventually became the lead singer and bass player for the band. That added to the comradery of my musical journey while in college.

To this day, the Phi Taus have been very supportive.

What advice would you give to Phi Tau men who wish to have a career in the music industry? Use the tools that you are developing as a Phi Tau in everything you do in life. Regardless of whether you pursue music or some other passion, you must be equipped and prepared. Being a Phi Tau gives you an advantage.

As you’re pursuing your passion, keep in mind that you are never failing. You are merely learning. There will be mistakes and setbacks, but you can’t let that define you. Use those troublesome moments to learn and become better.

Never let others define you. If you have a passion for something, don’t let others tell you that you’re not good enough or the cards are stacked against you. Gravitate towards those who are willing to help support your passion.

Finally, just be nice and be on time. Professionally speaking as a musician. There are a lot of phenomenal talents out there that can’t climb the ladder because their egos are too big or they can’t be on time. A good musician who is always on time will get the most work.

With An Adoption Story, you told a deeply personal story of your time in the foster care system and as the parent of three adopted children— what was it like to pour that much of yourself into your work, and then subsequently be rewarded with the industry’s highest honor for it? My story wasn’t something I was comfortable sharing. Very few people knew my

history. However, when I was writing music for the album, my producers kept pushing me to focus on the most intimate parts of my emotions and use that to inspire great music. They kept asking me very personal questions and got me to open up about a lot of things. They almost became my therapists rather than my producers. We channeled that emotion into “An Adoption Story”.

The album was getting a ton of buzz before it was even released. So, I had to decide whether I wanted to be public about the story. After careful consideration, we pushed the story and the topic of adoption as hard as we could. We wanted to bring awareness to the foster system and adoptive families. More so, we wanted adoptees to know that, despite all their circumstances, they can overcome just about anything to find success.

What is one of your happiest moments as a brother of Phi Kappa Tau? There were several great moments as a Phi Tau. When we get tougher as alumni, it’s always great to relive those moments through stories. All those great moments are what lead to such a great experience. Those great moments are what formed our friendships and who we are today. So, I have to say, my happiest moments as a brother are when we can get together and reflect on what made us today.

(Top to bottom) Kitt performing with the Symphony of Sinners and Saints; Kitt receiving his Grammy.

Educational Program Spotlights Educational Program Spotlights

REGIONAL CONFERENCES

Spanning three Saturdays in February and early March, Regional Conferences returned to Phi Kappa Tau’s educational programming, and we are thrilled with the success of this return. Held at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, University of North Texas, Clemson University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Berkeley, and Chapman University—these oneday programs spanned the entire country, offering a convenient drive for our undergraduate men.

Over 200 men attended the conferences and included everyone from associate members to officers. The event consisted of updates on Phi Kappa Tau, pro-fessional development sessions, and an invaluable platform for networking with neighboring chapters. Brothers dove into discussions about the fraternity’s progress, gained regional insights, and found localized support while getting answers to pertinent questions.

Conference

ZENITH

The second annual Zenith Officer Institute kicked off 2024 with a bang! Over 200 brothers from 60 chapters came together to work towards improving their chapters and preparing for their leadership roles. The event marked the first large-scale educational program for CEO Matt Arnold since his assumption of the role in April of 2023, who addressed men in the opening session to give exciting updates on Phi Kappa Tau as the fraternity heads into 2024.

Held at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare from January 4-7, this intensive three-day program featured four distinct tracks catering to Presidents, Treasurers, Membership Orientation Officers, and Recruitment Chairmen—offering tailored sessions to hone skills relevant to their roles. Through large group and breakout sessions, these chapter leaders left Chicago with all the tools needed to lead their chapters to success during their terms.

These are words that countless children around the world have heard time and time again—more commonly spoken to adolescent boys and young men. They’re seemingly harmless and are often used as a remedy for a scraped knee or some insignificant bruise, yet the message has a staying power that could last a lifetime.

BY DALTON LEE, BALDWIN WALLACE ’11

As

boys grow into men, so to grows the strong, silent mythology; literature, film, television, and all forms of media work to reinforce the belief that “real men” bury their emotions down deep and bully their way through all that life can conjure up— boys don’t cry. Being strong, no matter how hard, is not only your right as a male, but your responsibility. Slowly the basics of navigating the struggles and hardships of life seem foreign, and access to them feels impossible. Asking for help, admitting “weaknesses” as common as grief, crying from any type of pain has been unlearned and systematically buried by an environment which only has time

for the strong. These strains plague men of all ages, demographics, economic and social statuses, but often we only know following the most dyer of circumstances. In a year of staggering loss within our fraternity and on college campuses across the country, these issues are as prevalent as they’ve always been. Breaking an endless cycle of this magnitude cannot come from a simple article in a magazine, but with the right information and motivation, Phi Tau men can begin to change the culture within our fraternity and throughout their lives. None of this is to say that there is an issue with embracing traditional masculinity. Chopping wood, donning a finely pressed suit, and fixing a car are some of the most enjoyable experiences a person can have when embracing traditional masculinity, but the challenge is separating the enjoyable traditions from the harmful ones.

To the untrained eye, it would appear that men suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders far less than women—women are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety. However, the horrifying truth is that only 25% of men are likely to seek help for depression, anxiety, and

other mental health disorders. A result of this inability to seek aid is that over 75% of the deaths by suicide in 2022 and 2023 were by men, and nearly all of those deaths were white men. With this being the primary demographic of our fraternity, it’s of the utmost importance that this knowledge is readily available to our membership. Along with depression and anxiety, men are at a higher risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which can be particularly challenging for an undiagnosed college student. The pressure and rigorous schedule of college aged individuals can be a stressful experience, and the presence of an undiagnosed mental health disorder does not simply exacerbate the situation but can be alienating and isolating for the individual facing it. Outside of the strenuous schedules that college students face, there also tends to be the consumption of alcohol and drugs on a

regular basis. Following the highs of social events—which invite the consumption of these—the depressant effects of alcohol and mind-altering substances can affect an individual's mental health for many days and weeks to come.

To some of you, the facts and figures of the information presented may be nothing new. It’s information often provided by campus health professionals, doctors, therapists, and countless others—typically paired with warning signs for depression, anxiety, and for someone at risk of selfharm. This is crucial information for any individual to know, but what is tooregularly overlooked are the steps to take prior to the most extreme circumstances. In joining this fraternity, you are engrained

with the idea of being your brother’s keeper. It’s a vow that you undertake and is one of the most important responsibilities of every Phi Tau man. With this vow comes the opportunity to shift the culture within your chapter and our fraternity as a whole. Being your brother’s keeper can’t be boiled down to simply being there when you’re most needed—although that is a crucial part—it is about creating a culture in which brothers feel they can be open, honest, and vulnerable. This type of culture starts with

the self, and the ability to lead by example. In building and leading a chapter, no one has more sway on the culture created than you. Creating an honest and vulnerable environment, in which, there’s less shame and hesitation to share feelings, to ask for help, and to connect with others, is the first step to mitigating many of the mental health issue facing men of all ages. For Chi chapter President, James Ceribelli, North Carolina State ’22, and Mental Health Chair, Reid Hernandez, North Carolina State ’21, creating an open and vulnerable environment is of the utmost importance. In his position, Hernandez has appointed one member from each semester’s associate class to serve as a contact for brothers in need of an outlet to talk and shares information and resources for brothers at each chapter meeting. Preemptive steps like those taken by Chi chapter are

the benchmark for all who truly wish to be their brother's keeper. Fellow brothers are not the only resource available to undergraduate students. In speaking with Tim Popma, Central Michigan ’05, a certified LLPC and Assistant Director of CMU Cares, he believes it crucial that every student be aware of the counseling centers and resources available on their campus. Counseling centers frequently offer sessions at a reduced cost and can help guide students to finding professional help.

In a perfect world, the ability to create an environment that mitigates these issues before they arise would be all that is needed, however that is far from the reality. Recognizing the signs of depression, anxiety, or severe mental health crises can aid in getting a brother, family member, or friend the care they need. The most common red flags are anger, irritability, or aggressiveness; noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite; misuse of alcohol and/or drugs; physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems, and pain; escapist behavior, such as spending a lot of time on work; and having difficulty sleeping or sleep too much. Not all of these signs are universal, and they’re not only for recognition in others. Accepting and recognizing these signs in yourself is the first step in getting needed help. Overcoming the nurtured belief that men should be strong enough to handle their own problems and resolve any issue without help is the second step on a path to grasping the enormous weight a disease like depression can have on you. Being your brother’s keeper and looking out for the ones you hold most dear must work in tandem with caring for yourself. Self-realization is vastly more challenging than recognizing a sign of something wrong in others; it requires an acceptance and awareness of the issue, and the strength to ask for help.

“Being your brother’s keeper can’t be boiled down to simply being there when you’re most needed—although that is a crucial part—it is about creating a culture in which brothers feel they can be open, honest, and vulnerable. This type of culture starts with the self, and the ability to lead by example.”

For Phi Kappa Tau, renewing the focus on mental health is paramount to the well-being of our brotherhood. From the brothers of Chi chapter to National President, Mike McCrum, Texas State ’75, and CEO Matt Arnold, the ability to provide resources and information to our brotherhood has become a top priority. President McCrum has established a Mental Health committee, which although is still in the planning stage, has already begun to establish transformational resources for our undergraduate brotherhood. The Mental Health committee will be spearheaded by Tim Popma, who has been working with undergraduate students for over four years and strives to bring the type of care provided at CMU to our entire undergraduate brotherhood. Along with the committee, Phi Kappa Tau has launched our free 24/7 365 Crisis Text Line available to all of our brothers, not just undergraduates. This resource can be used for anything from finals stress

This piece would not be possible without the insight of Brother Tim Popma, the contributions of the Chi chapter, and the initiatives undertaken by our fraternity’s leadership. All statistics were drawn from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Psychological Association.

to relationship problems to severe mental health crises. Phi Tau is paving the way for other greek organizations to provide the same type of care to their membership. If you’re in need of someone to speak to, in need of immediate care, or are in the midst of a struggle that seems insurmountable, text PHITAU to 741741.

A fraternity in its most ideal and realized state could act as the perfect environment for men to share with each other, be open and honest about their feelings, and have no fear of being vulnerable with their brothers, but that is not always the case. Due to a number of

factors—socialization, the presences of alcohol and drugs, pressures of a rigorous schedule—fraternities can sometimes act to the antithesis of the brother’s keeper mentality. Even when the brotherhood is firm in all the positive attributes listed throughout this piece, someone who is experiencing severe mental health issues will require professional help to overcome them, and it is the responsibility of us all to encourage them to seek the help needed and to provide resources for that care. Phi Tau men of all ages must make it their personal missions to be their brother’s keeper by not only acting as pillar of compassion and understanding for others, but as a beacon of honesty and vulnerability in themselves. When this example is set and the culture begins to shift, brothers can focus on staying educated, informed, and aware— no longer only acting in reaction to issues, but preemptively caring for and helping others. Through generations of socialization, the idea that boys don’t cry has acted as a conduit for mental health issues to fester and grow, but it has far outstayed its welcome.

While it's nearly impossible to enact lasting change across the globe, it is possible to change acceptance within yourself, the dynamic of friendships, the culture of a chapter, and the mentality of Phi Kappa Tau.

Campus Spotlights

Our chapters have made an incredible impact on their communities in the past several months. Here's a selection of some of the great work our men are doing! Want to stay up to date with all of our chapters? Be sure to follow us on social media @phikappatau across all platforms!

1 ALPHA ETA at Florida cleaning up their Adopt-A-Highway.

2 BETA BETA

at Louisville presenting their $25,000 check for SeriousFun at their annual “Dance Show.”

3 BETA EPSILON

at Southern Miss honored Veterans Day by planting flags at Highland Cemetery in Hattiesburg.

4 BETA THETA

at Kansas hosting a "Pie Kappa Tau" event - he looks happy!

5 BETA XI

at Georgia participating in a "Shop with a Bulldog" community service event.

6 DELTA BETA

at Evansville participating in a breast cancer awareness philanthropy event.

7 EPSILON at Mount Union painting a local church for MLK Day.

8 EPSILON NU at Clemson working to build a home for a local rebuilding project.

9 GAMMA ALPHA at Michigan Tech working at a community clean-up day.

10 PHI at Bethany participating in a sexual assault awareness fundraiser.

For more Chapter Snapshots, follow @PhiKappaTau on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

LAURELS

WORRELL,

AN

, celebrated the 70th harvest of his Nebraska farm. This was no ordinary harvest, it featured for generations of the Worrell family—spanning from ages 2-92.

[1971]

Larry Enterline, Case Western Reserve, displays pride for his alma mater and philanthropic spirit by making a major gift to Case Engineering Building. He and his life partner, Kathy Richards, have committed $2.5 million to the university’s 200,000-square-foot Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISEB) project.

[1983]

Principal of Unbridled Spirits, LLC, Nick Nelson, Transylvania, was appointed to the Transylvania University Board of Regents.

[1987]

Dr. Don Stansberry, Ohio, is now serving as Vice President

CRAIG

NEBRASKA WESLEY-

’49

of Student Affairs at Clayton University. He most recently served as the inaugural Presidential Fellow at Old Dominion University.

Former Executive Offices staff member, Aaron Curry, Oklahoma State, has begun his race for the State Senate in Oklahoma. Curry is a fourth-generation Oklahoman and successful businessman.

[1999]

Les Fugate, Centre, was awarded the Esprit de Corps Award, an elite industry award honoring leaders who personify the legendary group’s spirit of camaraderie and integrity. The award was bestowed upon Fugate by the Chair of the KDA’s Board of Directors for going above and beyond the call of duty to advance the mission of the KDA and Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

WILL GODFREY, JR., COLORADO STATE '57, was inducted into the fly-fishing Hall of Fame in October. He was a charter member of the Federation of Fly Fishers, now Fly Fishers International, and helped start fly fishing clubs in Boise and other Idaho cities – Pocatello, Twin Falls and St. Anthony – while climbing the volunteer ranks of the organization.

[2000]

Brothers from the Delta Omega chapter came together for a fundraising event at 4 Hands Brewing Co. to honor Scott Klasner, Truman State, who passed in 2019 after battling ALS. Since 2015, alumni of the organization have raised nearly $150,000 to support families affected by ALS. Pictured, standing, from left, Austin Bender ’13, Kyle Deutsch ’00, Spencer Wilson ’15, Jason Ingenbohs ’98, Greg Guntli ’01, Steve Williams ’98, Scott Symank ’97, with son Drew, Pete Guntli ’98, Brian Eicholz ’97, and Jeff Wagner ’97. Pictured, seated, from left, Luke Gentry ’15, and Quaid Besing ’15.

[2001]

Neal Thompson, Eastern Kentucky, has begun an exciting new career with Sazerac Company as a Sales Performance Coach! Sazerac is a global beverage manufacturer, and has some of the biggest brands in the industry— including Buffalo Trace, Fireball, and Wheatley Vodka.

[2009]

Phil Wallace, M.Ed., Baldwin Wallace, is the new Interim Director for TRIO Student Support Services at Cleveland State University. Wallace is also pursuing his PhD in Urban Studies and Public Affairs from the University.

[2011]

Robby Yankush, Baldwin Wallace, and his wife, Emily, proudly

celebrate the birth of their first child. Bennett James Yankush was born on September 18, 2023.

[2016]

Kanishk Patel, Illinois, is starting a new position as the Grand Jury Assistant District Attorney at the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office! Patel has been with the Brooklyn DA’s Office since April 2023, continuing to work his way up the ladder.

If you’d like to submit a story to be included in The Laurel you can do so at phikappatau.org/ submit-news

PATEL

TRUMAN STATE ALUMNI

YANKUSH

WALLACE

CHAPTER ETERNAL

Listed below are the brothers who were reported to have entered the Chapter Eternal from August 13, 2023, to February 5, 2024.

MIAMI

William Brown ’45

Dick Henke ’47

Keith Dunker ’48

Dick Henn ’49

Jack Yost ’51

Larry Bertsch ’57

Lou Gabbard ’57

OHIO

Delbert Phillips ’31

Wayne House ’32

Ramon Kisinger ’44

Richard Holley ’45

Kenneth Byers ’45

Warner Moore ’45

Thomas Allen ’47

Bud Penn ’48

John Donaldson ’49

Richard Sopko ’49

Ivan Koleman, Jr ’49

Jim Fontaine ’55

James Pressick ’60

William Kellar, II ’81

David Kennat ’88

OHIO STATE

William Rusk ’36

Frank Bailey, Jr ’38

Bernard Mycoskie ’42

William Krause ’42

Daniel Drain ’43

Wyllys Stanton, Jr ’48

Frank Darcy ’49

Fredrick Plapp, III ’49

Jerry Laughlin ’56

John Pribble, II ’60

Richard Lundquist ’64

Jody Zimmerman ’76

CENTRE

Tommy Seward ’48

MOUNT UNION

Arthur Dundon ’39

Warren Holder ’41

Walter Wollam ’45

Albert Prazniak ’49

John Profant ’49

Thomas Paris ’49

ILLINOIS

Bill Grunert ’40

John Foster, Jr ’41

George Palandech, Jr ’42

Donald Cain ’43

Harold Burt ’47

Harold Kulat ’49

Chuck Hammond, Jr ’49

Earl Keating ’49

James Eaton ’50

Homer Chamberlain ’50

Elmer Hawkins ’51

Bud Crawford Jr ’52

Jerry Summers ’53

William Cowen ’60

MUHLENBERG

Richard Miller ’39

Harold Benjamin ’39

George Woodley ’41

Ralph Haaf ’46

Graham Rinehart ’46

William Glase ’46

John Mangini ’48

Walter Hitchcock, Jr ’48

David Bayer ’48

Donald Zippler ’49

Earl Beck ’49

TRANSYLVANIA

J. Brooks Major ’46

Kenneth Dean ’49

Donald Guss ’54

Bob Biddle ’59

Roger Elledge ’95

COE

Frank Bonvino ’60

Robert Brizzolara ’63

KENTUCKY

Herman Weber, Jr ’49

Bert Jody, Jr ’50

Charles Mudd ’58

Robert Cody ’63

PURDUE

Hugh Tomlin ’38

Leroy Berlik ’40

John Coffin ’42

Gene Newton ’48

Bob Billings ’51

Donald Pankros ’60

Tom Welsh ’61

LAWRENCE

Harold Zoerb ’34

Farley Hutchins ’39

Bud Inglis ’48

Allen Frater ’49

John Monsted, Jr ’49

Roman Vanden Heuvel ’49

UC BERKELEY

Richard Loken ’48

David Perkins ’48

Walter Briant, Jr ’48

Robert Levy ’53

Robert Brooke ’58

FRANKLIN & MARSHALL

Harvey Herold ’39

Richard Merrifield ’46

Charles Loyle ’49

Jim Brenner ’49

Thomas Frutiger ’49

PENN STATE

Howard Talley, Jr ’39

Dick Booser ’40

William Hughes ’46

Peter Warker, Jr ’47

Russell Angstadt ’48

Matt Shaner ’00

OREGON STATE

John Smolarski ’80

SOUTHERN

CALIFORNIA

Max Schlutsmeyer ’37

Bill Thomas ’46

Dean Vausbinder ’48

Brice Martin ’49

RENSSELAER

Alexander Stewart, Jr ’38

William Gutermuth, Sr ’41

David Bieri ’42

Steve Fabeck ’44

Elwood Betts ’44

William Brooks, Jr ’44

James Sterhardt, Jr ’45

Francis Welter ’45

Francis Bunk ’46

William Larose ’48

SYRACUSE

Richard Neville ’41

Judson La Flash ’48

Larry Varvaro ’48

Arthur Tucker ’48

Bill Keeler ’48

Les Stoddard ’48

Bob Franke ’49

MICHIGAN

Stewart Arnold ’42

John Le Valley, IV ’49

Conrad Ettl ’49

NEBRASKA WESLEYAN

Wesley Sandsted ’34

Doug Morrell ’38

John Groesser ’39

Ray Young ’46

Merlyn Saathoff ’46

John Wieseman ’48

Bob Burroughs ’49

Robert Hensman ’49

Harold Mann ’61

Dale Comer ’68

BETHANY

James Mewhirter ’47

Jack Kinsey ’48

Robert Regney ’49

Buzz Austin ’51

Edward Lockwood ’51

Harry Caldwell ’53

Monte Baiery ’54

John Roytos ’55

Frank Yarussi ’56

Jim Finn ’56

Richard Ciripompa ’56

Joel Rudy ’60

Alan Yardis ’61

Richard Decker ’65

John Scull, III ’68

Richard Martinelli ’68

Todd Summers ’87

NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Blair Roberts, Jr ’48

Rufus Swain, III ’48

Donald Harkey ’48

Gene Jones ’49

Thomas Long, Jr ’57

Lamar Bunn ’62

Anthony Blackman ’73

COLORADO

Donovan Deegan ’34

Thomas Wrighton ’44

Hugh Fowler, Sr ’45

Morgan Levy ’45

WISCONSIN-MADISON

Gerald Hanson ’39

MICHIGAN STATE

Vern Minkley ’33

Corydon Cribbs ’34

Tipton Chase ’35

Edward McNamara, Jr ’36

Willard Utman ’41

Ellis Brandt ’42

Robert Kuhlman ’42

Gordon Krum ’46

Sheldon Lee ’47

Clyde Hoag ’48

Ed Soergel ’48

John Streit ’49

Richard Secrest ’49

Gene German ’51

DELAWARE

Alfred Carey ’47

Samuel Workman ’48

Charles Streithof, Jr ’48

Don Coon, Jr ’48

Henry Harkins, Jr ’48

Henry Krysiak ’49

CASE WESTERN RESERVE

Thomas Haig ’41

John Bowman ’42

Leslie Hoberecht ’42

Robert Johnson ’44

Robert Reitz ’44

John Horner ’48

John Luchsinger ’48

James Theiling ’49

Lyle Haber ’49

Robert Mason ’49

Gilbert Nyerges ’50

Raymond Bender ’53

Colin Heath ’57

KANSAS STATE

Beverly Stagg ’38

FLORIDA

Mal Mallory ’31

William Morrison, Jr ’35

Charles McIntosh, Jr ’36

Raymond Ramage ’37

Hubert Richards ’46

James Hammond ’48

Walter Bobbitt ’48

Clarence Porter, Jr ’48

Alton Crevasse ’49

WILLIAM & MARY

Harry Holmes, Jr ’37

Charles Massey ’41

Jim Pickrell ’48

James Kelly ’48

Roy Lorenz ’48

Rae Harcum ’48

Donald Gerrie ’48

Norris Moses ’48

Paul Gallena, Jr ’48

Kit Kittinger ’51

Richard Anzolut ’51

PENNSYLVANIA

Frederick Stewart, Jr ’31

George Otter, Jr ’32

Myrtile Frank, Jr ’33

Clarence Handwork, Jr ’34

WASHINGTON STATE

Delbert Vanwinkle ’38

Rohl Barnes ’39

Victor Tillotson ’39

Warren Heylman ’43

Donald Schiebel ’48

William Valley ’49

AUBURN

Harry Vallery ’38

Robert Raffield ’42

James Kuffskie ’42

Elnomac Creel ’42

Harry West, Jr ’44

George Jackson, Jr ’45

Don McKesson ’48

Bill Quenelle ’48

Leon Blackmon ’48

Arnold Caylor, Jr ’49

Gordon Flynn ’49

Billy Snell ’53

John Patterson ’53

George Parkman ’54

Robert Fishbough ’58

Ramsey Chaplin ’66

IOWA STATE

Marion DenBeste ’31

Bruce Gilmore ’47

Merlyn Johnson ’48

Dean Finch ’48

WEST VIRGINIA

Harold McPheeters ’33

James Moore ’41

LAFAYETTE

George Hegeman ’30

Robert Magley ’48

Robert Reifsnyder ’48

Stanley Person ’48

William Baseley ’48

Francis Cinelli ’48

Christian Erb, Jr ’49

George Cochrane ’49

John Smiley ’49

WASHINGTON

Frank Tiano, Jr ’37

Gary Deal ’39

Eugene Carlson ’48

Ted Leche ’48

GEORGIA TECH

Joseph Krescanko ’48

Taylor Nance ’49

Donald Edney ’49

Lowry Bell ’49

Charles Johnston ’49

Ervin Lentz, Jr ’49

Eugene Surber ’58

Jim Adams ’65

COLORADO STATE

Dean Visintainer ’48

Donald Specht ’57

CORNELL

Bill Gombash, Jr ’47

Albert Fonda ’48

Jerry Fontenelli ’48

John Dodge ’48

Douglas Townley ’48

Arthur Bingham ’48

James Roeber ’49

COLGATE

John Campbell ’38

Donald Porter ’41

Tom Helmer ’47

James Foley ’48

Ralph Green, Jr ’48

Douglas Tibbals ’49

Allan Moore ’49

Tony Johnson ’54

AKRON

James Kay, Jr ’39

Richard Weaver ’40

George Cromley ’45

Donald Cort ’46

William Ploenes ’47

Bruce Shaw ’48

James Stansbury ’48

Jeff Towne, III ’49

Thomas Gearhart ’77

MISSISSIPPI STATE

Honore Renfroe ’48

Max Pennebaker ’23

TEXAS-EL PASO

Alonzo Sims ’45

Mandeville Zabriskie, Jr ’45

Robert Collier ’45

BALDWIN WALLACE

Frank Marincik ’45

Richard Boerem ’45

Wendell Babson ’49

Larry Liggett ’63

TEXAS

William Slabe ’45

Basil Taylor ’49

Gerald Cline ’49

Richard Foote ’59

LOUISVILLE

James Britt ’47

Bill Shore ’48

Ed Schroering, Jr ’48

Eugene Chervenak ’49

Al Sanning, Jr ’56

Bob Gillespie ’82

IDAHO

Joaquin Stephens ’48

Paul Araquistain ’48

Bryan Brunzell, Jr ’48

Benny Brooks ’49

U OF MIAMI

Richard MacMillan ’48

Richard Friedel ’48

SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Ralph McDaniel ’49

Wendell Blue ’60

Sergio Bozzetti ’64

Robert Petersen ’68

NEW MEXICO STATE

Howard Moore, Jr ’48

William Seedorff, Jr ’48

Paul Boushelle ’48

Joe Dirnberger ’48

Frederick Wong ’48

Harvey Dain ’48

William Alfano, Jr ’49

David Stewart ’73

Robert Fiser ’80

KANSAS

Bob Badgley ’52

Edwin Stene ’54

FLORIDA STATE

Edward Campbell ’46

Jack Locklin ’49

Harry Mullikin, Jr ’49

Sisco Deen ’60

OKLAHOMA STATE

Douglas Woodard ’94

INDIANA

Norbert Burzynski ’49

Darin Engle ’88

KENT STATE

James Ray ’49

Dick McGill ’49

Bill Saltsman ’49

Bill Fesler ’49

GEORGIA

Benjamin Strade ’63

MARYLAND

Joseph Rawlings ’49

Raymond Dilzer ’49

Richard Mihok ’49

Paul Kepler ’51

Gary Quinn ’82

UCLA

Ron Ulrich ’56

BOWLING GREEN

Donald Flory ’50

Donald Ross ’59

Luke Davis ’91

WESTMINSTER

Paul Struck ’65

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rod St Aubin ’66

Parker Douglas ’23

CAL STATE-

LONG BEACH

Tony Knowles ’63

Dwayne Larson ’64

Cal State Chico

Mike Oliver ’59

MICHIGAN TECH

Frank Pochyla ’76

CINCINNATI

Raymond Burt, II ’58

Harry Archer ’64

NORTHERN MICHIGAN

David McKee ’68

CONNECTICUT

Paul Samborski ’62

SACRAMENTO STATE

Thomas Nielsen ’64

Cary Nosler ’64

BRADLEY

Joel LaSorella ’62

Bill Schwarz ’64

Scott Lowtwait ’65

EAST CENTRAL OK

Tom Carlton ’80

OLD DOMINION

John Westman, Jr ’68

Matt Hokana ’14

OLE MISS

Lee Williams, III ’09

ST. CLOUD

James Lehman ’69

GEORGETOWN

Hugh Hudson, III ’70

WRIGHT STATE

Brad Lanich, Jr ’07

ARKANSAS

Ken Layton ’84

RUTGERS

Tom Swift ’05

CHAPMAN

Isaiah Coppola ’22

Eric Franklin ’17

FROM THE CEO

Sometimes, that is not enough.

THE POWER OF BROTHERHOOD

Men entering college today face many challenges which leads to higher anxiety and stress. I consistently read articles and research that suggest men are progressively less prepared each year to face the rigors of college life. But other research suggests finding a community of likeminded friends can positively impact on your mental wellbeing. For this very reason, I believe the college fraternity, when done right, is the very best establishment for young men to grow and be more prepared for life’s struggles. We naturally have an internal structure built into the fabric of our Fraternity called “brotherhood.” We inherently look out for one another, spend most of our college life together, and ultimately become tightly bonded for life. For this very reason we can reconnect after five years and feel like no time has passed at all.

Given the rise in mental health issues facing men on college campuses, I feel strongly that Phi Tau can be a part of the solution. We are inheriting new brothers each year who are already facing these challenges and we can do more. Our Fraternity is now placing greater focus and emphasis through committees, meetings, and regular discussions on how we can utilize this great brotherhood to affect lasting change. Resources like Crisis Text Line are just a start. It is my earnest desire to see every Phi Tau brother be able to lean on our brotherhood as a vehicle for a better life.

Fraternally,

MATT ARNOLD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PHI KAPPA TAU FRATERNITY

DIRECTORY

FRATERNITY CEO

Matt Arnold

FOUNDATION CEO

Craig Rogers

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Mike McCrum, Texas State ’75

NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Michael Lummus, Belmont ’06

FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN

Jeffrey Hilperts

Spring Hill ’96

FOUNDATION

VICE CHAIRMAN

Doug Adams, Miami ’81

Additional contact information for the Executive Office staff, Fraternity National Council, Foundation Board of Trustees, National Advisors, Domain Directors, and Educational Deans can be found at phikappatau.org/contact

LEADERSHIP MESSAGE

The goal of having one-thousand donors at the $1000 and up giving level is something that very few Greek lettered organizations have been able to accomplish. This goal is aspirational and has the potential to be transformational for the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity and Foundation.

Join the Boles 1000 today and help add your chapter to the ever-growing list!