THETRIANGLE of Phi Mu DeltaNational Fraternity Volume81 Number 1
100 Years Never Looked So Good ALSOINSIDE: Learning To Wield TheGavel
TheTriangle of Phi MuDeltaNational Fraternity
FromThePresident
November 2018 Volume 81 Number 1 The Triangle is a publication of Phi Mu Delta National Fraternity. Phi Mu Delta was founded on March 1, 1918 at the Universities of Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire. The Triangle is an educational journal published bi-annually in the fall and spring. The publication is paid for by the generous gifts made to the Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation. To make a gift, please visit our website at www.phimudelta.org.
National Council Ryan Grogan, National President Nu Beta '16, New Hampshire Ronnie Brown, National Vice President Sigma Alpha '14, Longwood Joseph Thompson, National Treasurer Mu Alpha '08, Susquehanna Jose Rosario, National Secretary Nu Rho '17, Rhode Island College Dr. Paul R. Kittle, Jr., Member-at-Large Mu Pi '91, Cal U of Pennsylvania Richard " Rich" Winter, Member-at-Large Mu Zeta '12, Lock Haven Thomas Moran, Collegiate Rep. Mu Alpha '19, Susquehanna Timothy Schafer, Collegiate Rep. Mu Xi '19, Penn College Thomas Murphy, Ex-Officio Member Mu Alpha '94, Susquehanna
Educational Foundation Michael Mallon, Chairman Mu Epsilon '95, Penn State William Foran, Vice Chairman & Trustee Mu Theta '01, IUP Rick Schlager, Treasurer & Trustee Nu Beta '98, New Hampshire Eric Etkin, Trustee Mu Zeta '99, Lock Haven
National Staff Thomas Murphy, Executive Director Mu Alpha '94, Susquehanna Jackie Hackett, Asst. Executive Director for Undergraduate Engagement Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority Dustyn Hall, Director of Advancement & Editor of The Triangle Sigma Alpha '18, Longwood Kyle Fox, Coordinator for Undergraduate Engagement Mu Rho '18, Shawnee
100 Years Never Looked So Good One hundred years ago, our fraternity's six founders sat around a table, and created what we now know as Phi Mu Delta. Through what I am sure was both a lengthy and turbulent, but respectful and well-intended conversation, the founders left that meeting having made something that would last well beyond their lifetimes and well beyond your lifetime and mine. The first order of its kind to hold democracy as a key value, Phi Mu Delta has always believed in the good will and positive nature of the men who join our ranks--that brotherhood need not be proven, but that strong character and a desire to redefine fraternity and develop as a leader was qualifier enough to join the fraternity. I say all of this because these past 100 years have not been easy, by any measure. Phi Mu Delta has traveled the long, hard road from its founding in the northeast, and has been in the deepest of valley--structurally, financially, and membership-wise. Our brotherhood has faced great struggles--the loss of amazing fraternal leaders we called brothers, financial debts, and the strenuous fight to keep Phi Mu Delta?s doors open, so that we might change another man?s life through our brotherhood. Through it all, we remained strong, and we depended on one another because the future of our fraternity depended on just that--one another. As members, either collegiate or alumni, we make up the backbone of the organization which our founders worked so hard to create 100 years ago. If only Clarence, Arthur, Robert, Charles, Otis, and Lloyd could see us now, I have great hope that they would be proud of where we have been, what we have overcome, where we are now, and what is to come in the future. I assure you that being a good fraternity man is not easy, and our founders knew that; but the result is just half of the story? the journey is a tale all of its own and I can say with the utmost appreciation for the men and women who have gotten us to this milestone in our history, that 100 years has never looked so good and to those who have battled and fought to keep us alive and well, we thank you. Fraternally,
Ryan Grogan National President
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POINTS& ANGLES: Introductions
BUILDINGBRIDGES: Alumni News
1 Letter From The National President
Reengage with alumni and friends who are building bridges in the real world, for members of every color, race, creed, and position.
Enjoy the magazine's regular information and reoccurring sections.
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Letter From The Editor
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Expansion Updates
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Colony Updates
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100 Years Never Looked So Good Building Bridges 15 Men Under 30 Redefining Fraternity In The Real World
Alumni News & Chapter Eternal
COLLEGIATEPERSPECTIVE: Chapter News
REDEFININGFRATERNITYTHROUGHEDUCATION: FoundationNews
Learn about our collegiate members, the perspectives they face each day, and how they are redefining fraternity on their campuses.
Check out how the Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation is supporting our collegiate members, national programs, and helping fraternity through education.
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Encouraging The Intrinsic Worth of the Men At Our Side
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Learning To Wield The Gavel:
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Foundation Update
Redefining Fraternity Through Leading Others
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PCI Project: Addresses Change. Brotherhood Doesn't.
Chapter News
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Launching Our First Ever Day of Giving
NATIONALPERSPECTIVE: FraternityNews Engage with real world perspectives that are effecting the fraternal movement, and see Phi Mu Delta's response.
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The Men Behind The Death Stars A Quick Look At The New National Council
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Building Better Chapters
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From The Archives
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FROM
THE EDITOR
Brothers & Friends? In keeping with the 100 year celebrations which have occurred over this past year, we are excited to welcome back our national magazine, The Triangle. This edition introduces our new National Council, outlines our 100 year history, provides an update on our Educational Foundation?s efforts, and offers some unique perspectives from contributing writers who want to showcase the experiences of our brothers, and highlight the awesome work of our collegiate and alumni members. The National Council, Foundation Trustees, and the National Office staff hope that this new and improved magazine will act as a catalyst for the change we as Phi Mu Delta men, hope to inspire, whether through our daily actions, words, or interactions with others. It has been Phi Mu Delta?s mission for some time now, to create a space that allows men of character to be different and more unique than their peers? our daily work as brothers and friends is to redefine fraternity, one man at a time, and this mission remains as much a part of our soul and drive as it did 100 years ago. Two and a half years ago, when I first joined Phi Mu Delta at my alma mater, Longwood University, one of my chapter brothers told me something that I still think about today; he said ?allow yourself to change the brotherhood and the brotherhood will in turn change you.? I have held this bit of advice with me and it guides my actions and thoughts each day, when it comes to developing and advancing our great fraternity. In following that brother?s advice, I leave you with one quick but also complex question: what can you do to advance the Fraternity?s mission of redefining fraternity, one man at a time? In The Bonds of Brotherhood,
Dustyn Hall, Sigma Alpha '18 Director of Advancement & Editor
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TheMen Behind TheDeath Stars: A Quick Look At TheNew National Council By: Dustyn Hall '18 Director of Advancement & Editor
served as a symbol for the highest office of our order: membership on the National Council. While it hasn't always been called the "Death Star," the medallion of the National Council signifies much more than just leadership; it represents a long line of men who have made it their priority to uphold and guard the spirit of Phi Mu Delta for those who have the responsibility and privilege of calling themselves a brother. Elected by the Conclave every two years, the National Council is comprised of eight voting members: the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, two Members-at-Large, and two Collegiate Representatives. The council also includes the Executive Director, who serves as an ex-officio, non-voting member. Following in the footsteps of men who preserved and protected our order, members of the National Council swear to do all in their 5
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power to "uphold the trust, live out the ideals, and guide the fortunes of Phi Mu Delta" to the best of their ability (National Council Installation Ceremony). Seeking the faith of their brothers, and promising to faithfully fulfill their duties, National Councilmen have the most reverent task of any brother in our one hundred year history. The "Death Star," pictured in the background, is the crest of Phi Mu Delta affixed on top of a beaming light, shaped like a star. The medallion, supported by an orange and black ribbon, is worn solely by National Councilmen, as a representation of their office and moreover, their duty to the Fraternity. Keeping with the plethora of traditions which Phi Mu Delta holds dear, the "Death Star" has its own set of traditions, the first of which is that upon a National Councilman's exit from the board, they pass their Death Star to the gentleman which has been elected to follow them.
As National Council Presidents exit their seat of service, they keep their "Death Star," as both a representation of their service and a lasting reminder of their impact and dedication to the brotherhood. The following men are the 2018-2020 Biennium National Council, elected at Centennial Conclave on June 30th.
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or quite some time, about 60 F years or so, the Death Star has
Members of theNational Council swear to do all in their power to 'uphold the trust, liveout thedetails, and guidethefortunes of Phi Mu Delta' to thebest of their ability.
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National President Ryan Grogan NuBeta'16, NewHampshire Ryan is a 2016 graduate of the Nu Beta Chapter at the University of New Hampshire, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. Ryan currently works as the Operations Manager for the Prescott Park Arts Festival. Before being elected National President, Ryan served on the National Council as a Member-at-Large for the 2016-2018 biennium, and advised the Nu Xi Chapter of Phi Mu Delta at the University of Southern Maine.
National VicePresident RonnieBrown SigmaAlpha'14, Longwood Ronnie is a 2014 graduate of the Sigma Alpha Chapter at Longwood University, where he was a Founding Father during the chapter's conception. During his undergraduate experience, Ronnie serve his chapter as President, and after graduating, worked for the National Office as a Leadership Consultant. Ronnie currently works at Monticello High School as a PE Teacher and Head JV Baseball Coach, and serves on active duty in the United States Army as a plans officer.
National Secretary JoseRosario NuRho'17, RhodeIslandCollege Jose is a 2017 graduate of the Nu Rho Colony at Rhode Island College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Dependency and Addiction Studies. Jose was a Founding Father of the Nu Rho Colony and served as Chapter President during his undergraduate membership. Jose currently works as the Coordinator of Disability Services at his alma mater, Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island.
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National Treasurer Joseph Thompson MuAlpha'08, Susquehanna Joe is a 2008 graduate of the Mu Alpha Chapter as Susquehanna University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education. After graduation, Joe earned a Master of Education Degree in Education with a focus on College Student Affairs from Rutgers University, New Brunswick. Joe currently works as the Assistant Director of Student Development at Stockton University. Before being elected as National Treasurer, Joe served as Member-at-Large during the 2008-2010 biennium, and then again as National Secretary for the 2016-2018 biennium.
Member- at- Large Dr. Paul Kittle MuPi '91, Cal Uof PA Paul is a 1991 graduate of the Mu Pi Chapter at California University of Pennsylvania where he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Business Administration & Management. Dr. Kittle also earned a Ph.D. in Administration of Higher Education from Auburn University. Dr. Kittle currently works as the Senior Associate Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Texas, Arlington. Before serving as National Member-at-Large, Paul served as National President for the 2016-2018 biennium.
Member- at- Large Richard "Rich" Winter MuZeta'12, Lock Haven
Rich is a 2012 graduate of the Mu Zeta Chapter at Lock Haven University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Masters Degree in Liberal Arts. Rich currently works as the Vice President of Operations for Louisiana Cremation Services. Before being appointed as National Member-at-Large, Rich served as President of the Mu Zeta Alumni Association, and Trustee and Secretary of the Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation.
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CollegiateRepresentative Thomas Moran MuAlpha'19, Susquehanna Thomas is a current biology major at Susquehanna University, where he currently serves the Mu Alpha chapter as Chapter President. Concurrent to his studies and service in the chapter, Thomas also works as the Senior Community Assistant, and is a member of the Ultimate Frisbee team. Before being re-elected, Thomas served a previous term on the National Council as Collegiate Representative.
CollegiateRepresentative Timothy Schafer MuXi '19, PennCollege Tim is a current automotive technology management major at Pennsylvania College of Technology, where he has served his chapter as House Chairman and Vice President of Membership. In addition to his studies and service to the Fraternity, Tim also served his campus as a Community Peer Educator, specializing in domestic abuse, sexual assault, drug and alcohol awareness, and suicide prevention during the 2017-2018 academic year.
The newly elected officers of the 2018-2020 Biennium National Council, taking their oath of office at the Centennial Conclave Closing Banquet on June 31st.
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WHEREWILLWE GROWNEXT?
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100yearsisnoeasy feat,andneither is expansion. HOWEVER,this past year has resulted inthreecol oniesfindingahomeon varyingcol l egecampuses acrossthe central east coast.
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IntheFal l of 2017, Staff werepl acedat LynchburgCol l ege(NowtheUniversity of Lynchburg) tobuil dandrecruit anewgroup of meninthel east-occupiedsigmadistrict. That samefal l , JackieHackett,Assistant executiveDirector, recruited34newmento joinPhi MuDelta's ranksat Marywood University inScranton, PA. Andthissemester, ExecutiveDirector Tom Murphy,MuAl pha'94, l edanexpansionto Stevenson University,makingPhi MuDeltathe first Fraternity on campus. Thecol ony at Stevensoninitiated29foundingfathers ON November 4, 2018withassistancefromthe MuAl phaChapter (Susquehanna). Check Out thecol onieson thenext page.
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GROWTH
& EXPANSION
StevensonCol ony StevensonUniversity OwingsMil l s, Maryl and
SigmaGammaCol ony MuPhi Col ony University of Lynchburg Lynchburg, Virginia
MarywoodUniversity Scranton, Pennsylvania
Only Timewil l t el l ... The Triangle | Fall 2018
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TheRoad to Democracy To begin to understand the origins of Phi Mu Delta National Fraternity, it is necessary that we venture back to the late 19th century. National fraternities were experiencing tremendous growth after the Civil War, but they remained organizations to which only the privileged could become members. Most were exclusive to the point of accepting only white, Protestant men studying the classics. Around the turn of the 20th century, groups began to form which were exclusively for those who were discriminated against by the established fraternities of the time. Fraternities such as Zeta Beta Tau (Jewish), Phi Kappa (Catholic), and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated (African American) provided the fraternal experience for those who had previously been denied membership. These new organizations were very successful from the start, but still were not truly democratic organizations. The first step in the evolution of truly democratic fraternities came with the founding of Pi Lambda Phi, the first non-sectarian fraternity. In 1899, at Wesleyan College in Middletown, Connecticut, a group of men who found that they were not welcome in any of the Wesleyan fraternities, formed an organization they called the Commons Club, named after the English House of Commons.
They immediately stated that the club was for anyone who wanted to join without regard for race, creed, or color. The idea spread to other campuses and the name was changed to the National Federation of the Commons Club. The Commons Club was a truly democratic organization, often to the point of being unwieldy. There was no real national structure other than officers and an annual convention. Each chapter operated with its own set of rules regarding membership requirements and had varying relationships with Greek letter fraternities. In some chapters, members were voted upon as in the Greek community, whereas in others, all that was necessary for membership was a willingness to support the organization and the placing of one?s signature on the charter. For some chapters it was permissible to be a member of the Commons Club and a Greeklettered fraternity at the same time, while at others, one was required to resign from the Commons Club in order to join a fraternity. On most campuses, the Commons Club was a force to be reckoned with because of the size of the chapter? being non-exclusive, they tended to be far larger than the chapters of fraternities. The Commons Club was very successful in providing brotherhood and democracy for its members, and eventually had nineteen chapters from coast to coast. But, its very broad concepts
of democracy were to be its demise. The crack started to show when the Middlebury chapter left in 1907. Several members of the Middlebury Commons Club felt that the club was too large and loosely organized to provide the type of intimate friendships they saw in the fraternities on campus. This group from Middlebury formed what it now known as Kappa Delta Rho. There was talk over several years about how to make the group more manageable, causing a lot of friction as people began to take sides over the future of the Commons Club. Things came to a head at the 1917 convention at Allegheny College, and that's where Phi Mu Delta?s story begins.
TheBeginning of Phi Mu Delta On one side there were voices speaking in favor of forming a Greek-lettered fraternity out of the remaining chapters of the Commons Club. On the opposite side were voices saying that it was contrary to the founding ideals of the Commons Club to even consider becoming a Greek-lettered organization. After lengthy debate, no further The Triangle | Fall 2018
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action was taken. Articles appeared in the 1917 edition of The Chronicle, the magazine of the Commons Club, debating the issue and warning of the impending doom should such action be taken. Delegates attended the 1918 Conference held at Massachusetts Agricultural College (now UMass) from New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, Union, Wesleyan, and Hobart--less than half of the chapter roll. Whether this low attendance was because of the strong feelings regarding change on the part of some chapters or a result of America's involvement in the war is unclear. It was at this conference on March 1st 1918, that Clarence Dexter Pierce and his supporters petitioned for the formation of a Greek-lettered fraternity called Phi Mu Delta. The original plan was to have all of the chapters of the Commons Club become chapters of Phi Mu Delta. However, only the chapters from Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Union voted to support the petition and become chapters. The delegates of the new fraternity wrote and adopt a constitution and returned to their respective campuses to share the news and present the plans to their chapters. Thus was born the first truly Democratic college fraternity recognizing no race, creed, color, or position, and believing in the intrinsic worth of any man. 13
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In other words, for the first time there was a national fraternity which welcomed to any man of character. It was not until the 1960s that other fraternities were brought (some kicking and screaming) into the world of true democracy.
TheEarly Years The first hurdle occurred when the Union chapter 's alumni would not allow them to join Phi Mu Delta, and since they owned the chapter house, the alumni convinced the current chapter 's membership to remain a Commons Club chapter. The chapter was finally dropped from the fraternities membership role in 1921. The other three chapters resolved to continue to work on solidifying the fraternity. The first expansion of the Fraternity took place in 1921, when the Coqua Club at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois became the Gamma Alpha Chapter of Phi Mu Delta. Other chapters soon followed at Michigan, MIT, Susquehanna, Berkeley, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Penn State, Ohio Northern, Wisconsin, Illinois, Maine, Ohio State, Boston University, and Rhode Island.
Things looked great for the young fraternity. The ideals of brotherhood, democracy, and service were spreading like wildfire among college campuses. Then it happened. The Great Depression came along and threw the entire country into a tailspin. Within six years, five of the Fraternity's chapters ceased operations, including Nu Gamma at Vermont. There was little money available and everyone was pretty much on their own as far as chapter operations were concerned. Although five new chapters were chartered during the Depression, only two of the five survived beyond the Depression years. If not for the leadership of the National Fraternity at the time, especially National Treasurer Jack Miller, Phi Mu Delta surely would not have survived. In 1934, the National Fraternity of Delta Alpha Pi was on the verge of extinction due to the depression. At the time, Delta Alpha Pi had seven chapters. They approached Phi Mu Delta requesting a merger under the name of Phi Mu Delta. The merger was approved but by the time it was consummated only three chapters of Delta Alpha Pi remained. Two of these merged with existing chapters of Phi Nu Delta on their campuses and the third at NYU, became the Nu Kappa Chapter of Phi Mu Delta. All alumni were absorbed into Phi Mu Delta. As the 1930s ended, Phi Mu Delta had twelve chapters from Maine to Illinois and were looking forward to better days.
TheWar Years Just as things started looking up for Phi Mu Delta, the second World War began. The undergraduate members of Phi Mu Delta, like many other young men across the country, began enlisting in the armed services in great numbers. Most chapters suspended operations and leased the chapter houses to the universities for the duration. At one point, Phi Mu Delta was active on just two campuses. Records show that 1,348 Phi Mu Delta brothers served in the military.
There were certainly more who never reported their status to the National Fraternity. Almost 100 gave their lives in defense of democracy. When the war ended, men began trickling back onto their campuses and tried to return to some kind of normalcy in their lives. The war had a profound impact on the veterans and many had lost their youthful idealism. To some, the idea of fraternity had lost its appeal. Post-war Conclaves concentrated on re-establishing the fraternity on their campuses where it had existed before the conflict. Most efforts were successful but Connecticut, Northwestern, and
Tufts did not survive and still remain dormant today. The nine remaining chapters, under the leadership of National President Perce Appleyard, pressed on and made plans for the future.
TheGolden Days As the country looked at the world with a new optimism, so did Phi Mu Delta. The Fraternity strengthened in numbers as more and more men attended college. The economy was good and the fraternity world took advantage of it. Phi Mu Delta began a very conservative expansion effort, the first in over fifteen years. A young, local fraternity at the University of Massachusetts called Zeta Zeta Zeta contacted the Fraternity. It was composed of many veterans and traditional students who wanted the advantages of national affiliation without being just another chapter of some large group. Zeta Zeta Zeta became the Nu Zeta Chapter in 1953 amid much pomp and ceremony. In 1954, through the efforts of national and local alumni, the Mu Epsilon Chapter at Penn State was reactivated. It had been one of the victims of the Depression. In 1956, led by Founder Lloyd A. Woodward, the Nu Gamma Chapter, another Depression victim, was re-chartered at the University of Vermont. Things had never been better. A new chapter was added at the University of Minnesota-Morris in 1964, Trinity in 1966, Gorham State in 1967, Lock Haven in 1969, and Keene
State and Kutztown in 1970. During this time, the National Fraternity opened its first headquarters in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and hired a full-time staff. Surely, we were growing both in strength and numbers. Membership was at an all-time high and it seemed nothing could stop us.
ATimeof Change The late 1960s saw a change of attitude among students on college campuses across the country. Young people started questioning authority. The old values were changing. Among the things that came under suspicion were fraternities. People no longer felt that they needed an organized group to feel like they ?belonged.? In a time of great social upheaval, it was felt that fraternities represented the ?old way.? Many fraternities felt the effects of the times and Phi Mu Delta was no different.
Phi Mu Delta was totally unprepared for what was about to happen. Membership started to decline; National and individual chapters faced severe financial hardships. Anti-National The Triangle | Fall 2018
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Phi Mu Delta disappeared on several campuses such as Trinity, Maine, and Minnesota-Morris. The few new chapters added after 1970 quickly folded. The only survivors of the Golden Days expansion were Lock Haven University, Gorham State (which later became the University of Southern Maine), and Keene State College, and they were hanging on by the skin of their teeth. It was felt, at the time, that the only way to survive was to enter into a merger with another Fraternity. Under the able leadership of National President William Wilson and Executive Secretary George LaTour, plans were made to merge with Delta Phi in 1974. Delta Phi was one of the Union Triad Fraternities, having been founded in 1827. The plan was to merge under the name of Delta Phi using Phi Mu Delta?s constitution and operational methods. The merger was to take place over several years to give chapters time to assimilate into Delta Phi and to consolidate chapters on those campuses where both fraternities existed. The plan was solid, but not without its consequences. Several chapters of both Fraternities threatened secession if the merger took place. Delta Phi 15
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approved the merger at its annual meeting and things looked ready to go when Delta Phi was named in a multi-million dollar lawsuit. Phi Mu Delta decided that it would not be wise to put its assets at risk and withdrew from the merger.
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sentiment grew among the chapters as the central administrative functions of the Fraternity began to weaken and colleges and universities withdrew their support of the Greek system. The Fraternity started to crumble.
Theplan [to merge] was solid, but not without its consequences. Several chapters of both fraternities threatened secession if the merger took place.
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By this time, the two fraternities were already sharing operations out of Phi Mu Delta?s Lancaster headquarters. It was decided at this point that a new method of fraternity management should be attempted. The two fraternities would continue to share operational responsibilities, but would retain their independence from each other. Each group had its own Board of Directors but day-to-day operations were run by George LaTour and his staff in Lancaster. Eventually, a third Fraternity, Alpha Delta Gamma, seeing how successful the operation had become, joined in and the ?Delta Group? was formed. Finally, things were looking up when, once again, the bottom fell out. Delta Phi pulled out of the Delta Group and set up their own operations.
Alpha Delta Gamma, who was even smaller than Phi Mu Delta, could not afford to make up their share of the financial void left by the departure of Delta Phi and the Delta Group was dissolved. Not being able to continue to operate the headquarters individually, the painful decision was made by National President, Eli Henry, to close the headquarters and let the staff go. This was the Fraternity?s darkest hour. Not knowing how to carry on, there were calls from chapters and alumni for the dissolution of Phi Mu Delta. The Nu Delta Chapter, disheartened by the developments and trying to maintain solvency, withdrew from the National Fraternity and became a local fraternity at MIT. The Mu Delta Chapter at Wittenberg could no longer carry on operations and handed in their charter. A miracle was needed, and it came in the form of two men, Eli Henry and Bob Lomison.
ThePhoenix Rises Surrounding himself with a few younger alumni who still believed in the worth and ideals of Phi Mu Delta, National President Eli Henry began to salvage what was left of the Fraternity. Realizing that strong central operations were essential to the future of the Fraternity, Stewart Howe Alumni Service of State College, Pennsylvania was hired to maintain Phi Mu Delta?s daily affairs. Bill Meyers took over the reigns as National President in 1978 and continued where Eli Henry had left off. Operations continued to be streamlined. This led to some painful decisions about closing a few troubled chapters, but it was essential that all of Phi Mu Delta?s efforts be directed at insuring the future of those chapters that showed promise. Finances continued to be a problem.
the Fraternity in order to make their services affordable and ensured a long-term relationship. By the end of 1981, Phi Mu Delta consisted of eight chapters with a very young National Council who were determined to bring Phi Mu Delta back to prominence in the fraternity world. In 1984, Bob Lomison was elected National President.
Bob had been an Undergraduate Representative on National Council in the mid 1970?s and had lived through those dark days as an active participant in Fraternity affairs. Bob served a dual role as National President and National Treasurer. His first order of business was to put the Triangle Trust Fund and Phi Mu Delta Foundation back on solid ground. Fees were raised and reapportioned to benefit both funds. Alumni volunteers were found to actively guide the boards of each fund.
During the time when the National Fraternity barely existed, dues were rarely paid. Beginning in 1980, fee collection became a top priority and alumni donations began coming in at a stead pace. The bank accounts began to show a positive balance. Robert Potter at Stewart Howe negotiated with
Chapter visitation was given top priority with a member of National Council being required to visit his assigned chapter at least twice a year. Undergraduates were held accountable for chapter operations and fees. A new awards system was set in place to reward outstanding achievement. Leadership Training
Conferences were established in the years between Conclaves to ensure a meeting of the entire Fraternity at least once a year. Chapters began to exchange information and work together to ensure their mutual success and The Triangle started publishing good news for a change. There were a few glitches along the way, but most of the hurdles had been overcome and Phi Mu Delta was alive again! A new chapter was added at California University of Pennsylvania in 1985.
Therewas afuturefor Phi Mu Deltaand it held great promise.
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The Mu Alpha chapter at Susquehanna was reorganized in 1985 and built a beautiful house on the hill above campus in 1988. By 1990, National Council was exhausted, but smiling. There was a future for Phi Mu Delta and it had great promise.
TheNewMillennium As the 1990?s began, a new wave of optimism swept the Fraternity. No longer were Conclaves and Leadership Training Conferences used to fight fires, but actually became valuable training and planning sessions, and were received with enthusiasm by the delegates.
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Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Mansfield University, and Lycoming College. The 80th Anniversary Conclave, held at UNH, was a time of great celebration as IUP (Mu Theta) and Mansfield (Mu Lambda) received their charters and Lycoming was made an official colony of Phi Mu Delta. Lycoming received its charter in April of 1999, becoming the Mu Iota Chapter.
Today, Phi Mu Delta is a strong, small national fraternity which has proven itself to be a leader in the small fraternity movement nationwide. In 1995, Tom Murphy, Mu Alpha '94, reactivated Nu Beta, a founding chapter, after a fourteen-year absence from the campus. The revitalization was so successful that it was determined that Phi Mu Delta should once again embark on a conservative expansion campaign. From the lessons learned at Nu Beta, an expansion manual was developed and the expansion committee reestablished, chaired by National Council Director, Scott Wills, Mu Beta '87. Over the next few years, new chapters were added at 17
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In 1998, the Distinguished Service Chapter and Distinguished Alumni Chapter awards were re-introduced, recognizing the great men of Phi Mu Delta who have served their communities, professions, and the Fraternity with honor.
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Bob Lomison stepped down as President to concentrate on Fraternity finances and Ron Jury stepped into the presidency. During his term, Ron became the first Phi Mu Delta ever elected to the Board of Directors of the National (now North-American) Interfraternity Conference and one of the few to sit on the board from a small national fraternity. Ron served on the NIC Board until 1999 and brought the issues of small fraternities to the forefront of NIC attention.
Today, Phi Mu Deltais a strong small National fraternity which has proven itself to bea leader in thesmall Fraternity movement.
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A new educational program was initiated in 1999 to make new member training consistent throughout the Fraternity. Called ?The Oracle,? it had been received with tremendous enthusiasm by the chapters. Recognizing that one?s fraternal bonds do not end upon graduation, a new public ritual was developed to welcome graduating seniors into the ranks of the alumni who came before them.
Surely, one of the more forward-thinking fraternities in the country, Phi Mu Delta had received the accolades of other organizations for its innovative methods and strong leadership in the fraternity world.
ATimeof Reflection In 2003, after four years without expansion, the Nu Pi Chapter at Plattsburgh State University was chartered. In 2006, the National Council voted to revert back to the Executive Director model that was so successful in the 1960s. Having full-time paid staff allowed the National Council to focus on the future direction of the Fraternity and the day-to-day activities would be handled by staff. Following the successful launch of the Nu Pi Chapter in 2003, the Mu Omicron chapter was started at Frostburg State University, followed by the Nu Theta Eta Colony at New England College in 2011, the Sigma Alpha Chapter at Longwood University in April of 2013, and the Sigma Beta Colony at the University of Alabama in 2014. While Sigma Beta did not become a chartered chapter, they served as a prime examples of how expansion works and led to even more growth and prosperity in the 21st century. Since 2014, the Mu Rho Chapter at Shawnee State University, the Mu Sigma Chapter at Rutgers University- New Brunswick, the Mu Tau Chapter at RutgersCamden, and the Nu Rho Colony
at Rhode Island College, all joined the list of Phi Mu Delta chapters which inhabit and serve college campuses across the northeast region. Out of the four colonies which began in 2015, only the Nu Rho Colony at Rhode Island College did not become a chartered chapter. Most recently added to the list of Phi Mu Delta chapters and colonies include: -
-
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Mu Upsilon Chapter at Robert Morris University, chartered last Spring. Mu Phi Colony at Marywood University Sigma Gamma Colony at the University of Lynchburg Stevenson Colony at Stevenson University in Owings Mills, Maryland.
Beyond TheFirst Century As the sun rose above the horizon on March 1st, 2018, Phi Mu Delta reached a milestone which some never thought would come. After one full century of operations, through the tumultuous period of war and economic crisis to the development and growth of the "golden days" and the early 21st century, Phi Mu Delta has been in the lowest of valleys and had stood on the highest of peaks. Through all of the change, Phi Mu Delta has remained virtually the same, with one exception: we have become a much stronger brotherhood; a brotherhood that withstood near-closure, economic downfall, loss in membership, national and international crisis after crisis, and the ever-changing but always lurking negative perception of Greek life and moreover, fraternity.
As the laundry list of fourteen chapters and colonies proves, the 21st century has been a busy and prosperous era time for the National Fraternity.
As brothers packed their cars, and saw Vermont in their rear-view mirrors, a sense of hope filled the air and an excitement about what the next 100 years looked like, was tangible amongst those who hold Phi Mu Delta so near. And so, as we reflect on the end of one century and look to the beginning of another, we remain mindful that the milestone we have celebrated all year long was no easy feat. One hundred years has come and gone, with its history and moments of trial, tribulation, and celebration, but three things remain: a brotherhood dedicated to the service of mankind, a renewed focus on democracy and justice for all, and a brotherhood that was sure to last for centuries to come.
Just two years ago, Phi Mu Delta was one of the fastest growing fraternities in the nation, seeing rapid growth in both new chapters and in recruitment. During the twelve year period of what became the upward trajectory of Phi Mu Delta, the National Office benefited from the work of ten full and part-time employees, in various roles and with duties spanning from undergraduate engagement, growth and development, alumni engagement and advancement.
the calm and serene banks of Lake Champlain, more than 150 brothers and guests celebrated Phi Mu Delta's first 100 years and ushered in the next century, at Centennial Conclave. Throughout the Centennial Conclave and the weekend's business and celebration, one thing rang clear: that Phi Mu Delta was stronger than it has ever been, with brothers and friends who support our mission of redefining fraternity, and will support our mission of redefining fraternity until they take their last breath.
100 years never looked so good. And finally, this past summer amongst the red-brick buildings of the University of Vermont, through the rolling hills and peaking mountains of the green mountain state, and alongside The Triangle | Fall 2018
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THEPHI MUDELTAEDUCATIONALFOUNDATIONHOSTS
PHI MUDELTA'SFIRSTEVER
Day of Giving SAVETHEDATE: APRIL23, 2019
HELPUSCELEBRATEFOUNDERCLARENCEDEXTERPIERCE'S123RDBIRTHDAYBY MAKINGAGIFTTOTHEPHI MUDELTAEDUCATIONALFOUNDATION. EVERYGIFTCOUNTS, NOMATTERTHEAMOUNTANDTHEREAREMULTIPLEWAYSTOGIVE.
VISITWWW.PHIMUDELTA.ORG/ DAYOFGIVING FORMOREINFORMATIONANDFOLLOWUSONFACEBOOKANDINSTAGRAMFORUPDATES ASWEGETCLOSERTOAPRIL. WANTTOLEARNMOREABOUTTHEPHI MUDELTAEDUCATIONALFOUNDATION? VISITOURWEBSITEATWWW.PHIMUDELTA.ORG/ FOUNDATION
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ADDRESSESCHANGE. BROTHERHOODDOESN'T. Phi Mu Deltais participating in adirectory project with Publishing Concepts Inc(or PCI). If you receiveaphonecall, email, or post card, pleasefollowtheprovided instructions and updateyour information! Thank you for your cooperation!
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BUILDING Fifteen Men Under Thirty Redefining
F
rom the New Hampshire State House, to the student birthplace of America's civil rights revolution in the heart of Virginia, to a classroom deep in the south, Phi Mu Delta men are making an impact in their professions, in their communities, and in the world. Phi Mu Delta's mission for some time now, has been to "redefine fraternity," something each of the fifteen men on this list know all too well. They know it is Phi Mu Delta's mission because they are the embodiment of what it means. From small town boy to big city guy, each of these men come from different walks of life,
have achieved different goals, have overcome barriers, and have reached new heights professionally, but they all have one thing in common: they are Phi Mu Delta men who have and are currently building bridges with their alma mater and their communities, and are redefining fraternity in the real world. Please join us in congratulating the 2018-2020 Biennium 15 Men Under 30. Check out their biographies below and connect with them on LinkedIn.
Cainan Townsend Sigma Al pha '15 Cainan is a 2015 graduate of the Sigma Alpha chapter at Longwood University. During his undergraduate membership, Cainan served as Chapter President. Cainan holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Liberal Studies and is currently seeking his Master of Science Degree in Counselor Education with a focus on College Counseling and Student Affairs, which he is set to complete in May 2020. After graduating from Longwood, Cainan worked as a Therapeutic Advocate for Bear Creek Academy, a Therapeutic Mentor for James River Therapeutic Services, and currently works as the Director of Education and Public Programs at the Robert Russa Moton Museum, the student birthplace of the civil rights movement located in Farmville, Virginia. He holds multiple leadership and volunteers roles, serving most notably on the Prince Edward County School Board, the Governor's School of Southside Virginia Joint Board, the Virginia General Assembly African American Cultural Resources Task Force, and the Longwood University Diversity Council. Cainan has also served the Fraternity as an advisor for both the Sigma Alpha Chapter and the Sigma Gamma Colony.
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BRIDGES Fraternity In The Real World Jacob Dubois Nu Gamma '16 Jacob is a 2016 graduate of the Nu Gamma chapter at the University of Vermont. During his collegiate experience, Jacob served his chapter as both Vice President of Membership and as Chapter President, and is now a member of the Nu Gamma Alumni Association. Jacob holds a Bachelor's Degree in Community Entrepreneurship and Computer Science. After graduating from the University of Vermont, Jacob started his own full service eCommerce marketing company, called Uptown Cow, where he puts his talents and skills to work in the fields of eCommerce, communications, entrepreneurship, and digital and social media.
Lewis Land Mu Al pha '12 Lewis is a 2012 graduate of the Mu Alpha chapter at Susquehanna University. During his undergraduate membership in Phi Mu Delta, Lewis served as Vice President of Member Development, showing a keen knack for educating the chapter's new members. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing from Susquehanna, a Master of Fine Arts in Writing from the University of Central Arkansas, a Master of Arts in English from Bucknell University, and is currently seeking a second Master of Fine Arts in Writing from the University of Idaho. Lewis previously worked as an Adjunct Professor of English and Creative Writing at his alma mater, Susquehanna, where he taught Senior Writing, Literature Studies, Writing and Thinking, and a plethora of other classes. While he is currently seeking his second MFA, Lewis is serving as a Teaching Assistant. Before moving to Idaho, Lewis served his chapter as their Chapter Advisor and received the Dr. Albert D. Nutting Award for Outstanding Chapter Advisor from the National Fraternity, at Conclave 2018. The Triangle | Fall 2018
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Nichol as conigl iar o Sigma Al pha '15 Nick is a 2015 graduate of the Sigma Alpha chapter at Longwood University. During his collegiate experience, Nick was highly involved in Longwood's Student Newspaper "The Rotunda," worked for the Big South Network in broadcasting, and served the Sigma Alpha Chapter as Brotherhood Chairman. Following his graduation from Longwood, Nick accepted a position as the Weekend Sports Anchor and Reporter in Casper, Wyoming for KTWO. Following his time with KTWO, Nick worked as a morning editor for WWBT, NBC 12, where he discovered his love for news. And finally, after a year with WTRF in Wheeling, West Virginia, Nick returned to his hometown, Richmond, Virginia, and began working for WRIC 8 News as a Morning News Reporter in the community where he grew up.
Phil Mor in Nu Gamma '12 Phil is a 2012 graduate of the Nu Gamma chapter at the University of Vermont. He served as the Vice President of Service and Philanthropy as a collegiate and is currently serving as Chapter Advisor for the Nu Gamma chapter. Phil is a Director on the Nu Gamma Alumni Association Board, and is a member of the Greek Alumni Advisory Committee at the University of Vermont. Phil works as a Food Security Specialist for Hunger Free Vermont where he works in communities around Vermont to eradicate hunger through advocacy, education, and empowerment.
Logan Sweet Mu Al pha '14 Logan is a 2014 graduate of the Mu Alpha chapter at Susquehanna University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Management and studied at Regent?s University London for the semester study abroad program. He volunteers as a Rockwell Ambassador for the Rockwell Museum, a Board Member for the Corning Area Young Professionals, and Board Member for the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes. Logan is a Social Media and Public Relations Manager for Creagent Marketing in Corning, New York.
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Der r ick Dubois Nu Gamma '13 Derrick is a 2013 graduate of the Nu Gamma chapter at the University of Vermont. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Bachelor of Arts in Pure Mathematics and is currently working towards his Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot Technology at the Vermont Technical College. As an undergraduate, he was a re-founding father and chapter President for the Nu Gamma chapter and was awarded the Charles S. Rising Chapter President of the Year award in 2012. Previously, Derrick served as the District Governor for the Nu District and Director of Chapter Services for the National Office. He holds certificates in Commercial Airplane Single Engine Land (ASEL), Instrument Rating, and a Private Pilot Airplane Single Engine Land (ASEL). He serves as an RJet Ambassador for Republic Airlines and an Intern at AvMkt and SimHawk.
Fabion Seat on Mu OMicr on '12 Fabion graduated from Frostburg State University in 2012. While at Frostburg, he joined the Mu Omicron chapter, Order of Omega, and served on the Student Government Association. Fabion previously served as the Deputy Press Secretary for the United States Senate and Press Secretary for the United States House of Representatives. Currently, he is the Communications Director for the Maryland Democratic Party.
Teague Emer y Mu Al pha '13 Teague is 2013 graduate of the Mu Alpha chapter at Susquehanna University and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with Finance and Entrepreneurship. He is currently serving as an Executive Team Member of the Alpha Sigma Omega Housing Corporation and the Susquehanna University NYC Alumni Chapter President. Currently, Teague works as a Vice President at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
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Agnit r a Choudhur y Nu Pi '13 Agnitra graduated Summa Cum Laude from the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance. He served as the Vice President of Finance for the Nu Pi chapter and, after graduation, served as the Vice President of Finance for the Nu Pi Alumni Association. In 2015, Agnitra earned a Master of Arts in Economics from Binghamton University and is now a PhD candidate in Economics at Binghamton University. He is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor at Auburn University at Montgomery, Alabama serving as a Teaching Assistant for Microeconomic Theory, Principles of Macroeconomics, Business Statistics, Principles of Microeconomics, Information Economics, Advanced Environmental Economics, and a multitude of other subjects.
Zachar y Woods Mu Bet a '17 Zachary is a 2017 graduate of the Mu Beta chapter at Ohio Northern University. He graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) and served as a Pharmacy Intern at Absolute Pharmacy and Medicine Center Pharmacy. Zachary served as a Chapter Advisor for the Mu Beta chapter, working with them on recruitment, operations, and conducting the annual ?Zach Woods Retreat?for the members. Recently, Zach became the District Governor for the western Mu and Sigma districts. He works at the Ohio State University College of Pharmacy as an Assistant Professor.
Al ex Fr ies Nu Bet a '17 Alex is a 2017 graduate of the University of New Hampshire and received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He joined the Nu Beta chapter and served as Chapter President and on the National Council as a Collegiate Representative. In his time at the University of New Hampshire, Alex also served as Speaker for the Student Senate. Currently, Alex is a Special Assistant for the Office of Governor Christopher T. Sununu in New Hampshire and Chairman for the Governor?s Millennial Advisory Council.
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Mat t hew Rindf uss Mu Thet a '16 Matthew is a 2016 graduate of the Mu Theta chapter at Indiana University of Pennsylvania; graduating Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science. He served as the Scholarship Chair for the Mu Theta chapter. Currently, Matthew works for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives as a Research Analyst for the House of Representatives Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. He also serves at the Vice President of Membership for the Harrisburg Young Professional Toast Masters in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Joseph Sweeney Nu Bet a '16 Joseph graduated from the University of New Hampshire in May 2016, with a Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and earned his Masters in Public Policy from Carsey School of Public Policy in 2018. He joined the Nu Beta chapter and served as Chapter President, was awarded the 2015 North American Interfraternity Conference Undergraduate Award of Distinction and the 2014 Phi Mu Delta Robert C. Lomison Undergraduate of the Year award. He also served as the University of New Hampshire Student Body President, Finance Intern for Guinta for Congress and Lambert for Congress, Intern for Charlie Bass for Congress, and New Hampshire State Representative. Joseph is the Communications Director for the New Hampshire Republican State Committee.
Pet er Hodges Nu Thet a '13
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FOFRR W A R D M A R C H OMTHEFOUNDATIONCHAIRMAN Brothers, As we move into the next millennium of Phi Mu Delta, I would be remiss in not opening with a heartfelt thanks to the great people who started our fraternity those many years ago. In addition to those founding members, there have been many brothers who have sacrificed and dedicated their time, talent, and treasure to our fraternity through the years. They all deserve our thanks, as without them we would not have reached this milestone. However, like any successful organization, we must continue to evolve. Through a very generous gift from our brother and past National President, Robert Lomison, Mu Zeta '73, we have officially hired Dustyn Hall, Sigma Alpha '18, as the Director of Advancement. Dustyn will dedicate his time to fostering alumni engagement for both the Foundation and Fraternity, while also focusing on advancement and development priorities through fundraising and donor cultivation. This addition highlights our commitment to our alumni brothers and ushers in a new chapter for the Educational Foundation. And so as you peruse The Triangle, I invite you to spend a few minutes reading through the Foundation's Strategic Plan (on the following pages), which highlights our goals for this biennium, which will conclude at the 2020 Conclave. Most of our goals are attainable, and some are going to challenge us, but we know we can accomplish them with your continued support. Now, whether you joined last year or 50 years ago, please take a moment and enjoy The Triangle and remember what brought you to Phi Mu Delta. Then, I would ask you to think about how you can support Phi Mu Delta as we enter our next century, because we must always, "forward march." Fraternally,
Mi chael Mal l on Michael Mallon, Mu Epsilon '95 Educational Foundation Chairman
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FOUNDATION
UPDATE
2016-2018 FOUNDATIONSNAPSHOT
$44,654.04RAISED
The total includes all major and minor gifts, including undergraduate giving. The largest gift in the 2016-2018 biennium came from Past National President, Brother Bob Lomison, Mu Zeta '77, whose gift made the creation of the Director of Advancement position possible.
117 TOTALGIFTSGIVEN 5% of the 117 total gifts, came from non-brothers, including spouses, friends, or campus-based partners. 41 undergraduates gave $19.18 and became members of our only undergraduate giving society, the 1918 Society.
134 +VOLUNTEERS& FRIENDSOFPHI MUDELTA We have been fortunate to benefit from a network of volunteers and friends, who serve the fraternity at the national level, facilitate one or more of our programs, or serve as a chapter advisor or campus-based Greek Advisor.
400+PARTICIPANTS@NATIONALPROGRAMS Over 400 collegiate and alumni members have attended a national program in the biennium, including but not limited Conclave 2018, Officers' Academy, or Sapphire Leadership Institute.
$5,000INSCHOLARSHIPSGIVEN Over $5,000 in scholarships were given to collegiate members, in the form of book or tuition scholarships, based off of both merit and demonstrated leadership skills. The Triangle | Fall 2018
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M O V IN G F O R W A R D ASTRATEGICPLANFORTHENEXTCENTURY By: Dustyn Hall '18, Director of Advancement & Editor From politics to education to workforce and labor, and everything in between, Phi Mu Delta has made the fraternity experience one where developing men of character into leaders and innovators is just rote duty. The Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation, however, wants to take that mission a step further. Simply developing men is not enough, and never has been. In every walk of life, there are Phi Mu Delta men leading causes and projects that are having a tangible impact on the world around us. Just take a peak at our 15 Men Under 30 earlier in this edition. But the Foundation is only as strong as its goals, and because of this, a widely encompassing
plan has been crafted, which will educate collegiate members, engage alumni and friends, and truly build upon our history to make Phi Mu Delta a better brotherhood,. The Foundation's Strategic Plan includes six key areas of focus: -
Engage Leadership Genuine Communication Sturdy Membership Intimate Alumni Experience Impactful Education Deserved Celebration
These six areas highlight multiple aspects of engagement at varying levels of membership, and truly serve to motivate every member, no matter their financial standing, age, chapter, or position in life.
Collegiate members, national volunteers, and facilitators gather for a group photo at Officers' Academy, held each winter to train new chapter officers.
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Included in each of these six areas are two to three goals each, which are attainable but not easily attainable. We encourage every alumnus and collegiate member to participate; to become champions for Phi Mu Delta and moreover, fraternity as a whole. While the past one hundred years have been a journey we should be proud of, there is still a ton of work we have to left to complete. While the Fraternity's mission is to "redefine fraternity," the Foundation has its own mission: redefining fraternity through education; a mission we don't take lightly. As our second century dawns the horizon, we are excited to be moving forward and hope you will join us and do the same.
FOUNDATIONGOALSAT-A-GLANCE ENGAGEDLEADERSHIP -
Recruit and retain six new foundation board members, bringing the total membership to ten members. Complete a Foundation Board and National Council retreat where the two boards can have open dialogue about goal setting, prospective donors, and the direction of both entities.
GENUINECOMMUNICATION -
Complete a Foundation re-branding, including a new logo, social media platforms, website, and printed material templates. Begin publishing The Triangle again, biannually, with feature stories, alumni updates, and chapter news.
STURDYMEMBERSHIP -
End year one of this strategic plan, with 100 new donors. Bolster a 15% participation rate for giving amongst undergraduate members. Clean up and better utilize the alumni database.
INTIMATEALUMNI EXPERIENCE -
Hold 10 regional alumni events, used as opportunities for alumni engagement, participation, and cultivation. Launch Phi Mu Delta's first ever Day of Giving. Streamline the process for forming an Alumni Association, establish 9 new associations by Conclave 2020, and create resources for the associations.
IMPACTFUL EDUCATION -
Develop an undergraduate scholarship program. Have two out of the three national programs, fully funded for the 2018-2020 biennium. Create and implement chapter training and resources for engaging alumni on a chapter level.
DESERVEDCELEBRATION -
Increase alumni engagement at national programs by 20% from the current engagement. Create and launch a Founders' Day Celebration. Continue to cultivate, restore, and display artifacts from our history.
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Encouraging theIntrinsic Worth of theMen At Our Side By: Jackie Hackett, M.A. Assistant Executive Director for Undergraduate Engagement Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Psi Chapter
Working for the National Office over the last two years, I?ve heard the Founders?Creed recited countless times, and this section seems to be the favorite amongst members. I?ve even watched some chapters embrace each other while reciting it. Anecdotally, if I were to ask the average member of Phi Mu Delta to identify his favorite part of his Phi Mu Delta experience, most would not pause to think and would respond, ?Brotherhood! The bonds I?ve built with my brothers.? But what does brotherhood mean, what does brotherhood look like in the 21st century, and how is it built between each other and within our chapters? The word fraternity comes from the word ?phrata,? a Greek word meaning friendship and fellowship. A fraternity is a group of men with common values, goals, and aspirations who 31
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make a commitment to each other, for life, to better themselves through strong academic achievement, civic engagement, and leadership and personal development. This definition seems pretty straight forward (though slightly superfluous) and relatable to most fraternity men. The members that form a fraternity share their efforts, friendship, and knowledge, and together they learn, grow, and make the fraternity stronger.
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?I Believe in Brotherhood... brotherhood that reaches beyond the limits of Phi Mu Delta and welcomes every man as my brother. I believe in the intrinsic worth of the man at my side, and in his ability to make good and justify my faith in him.?
Themembers that forma fraternity sharetheir efforts, friendship, and knowledge, and together they learn, grow, and makethe fraternity stronger.
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In 2011, I was reluctantly entering my second semester of my freshman year and was desperate to find a friend group. I was shy, afraid to talk to people, and felt anxious trying to
make sure I said the right thing in order to impress that one person who just might become my friend. My first semester was full of loneliness and self-doubt. I watched my high school friends and twin sister live the college dream through social media: the apparent balance of finding friends, going to classes, going out on the weekends, and seemingly doing college ?right?. I think everyone has experienced this feeling to some degree? the FOMO (fear of missing out) of not understanding why you?re not connecting with people on a level that makes you feel valued and understood and watching others around you seem to do it with ease. For me, the first time I felt like I found ?my people? was in my chapter, but it wasn?t until I was an upperclassman, that I understood this thing called ?sisterhood? and how my sorority sisters were my friends first and then my sisters. As a non-member working for Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, I have the unique ability to observe the chapters and members objectively. There are parts of Phi Mu Delta that I am jealous of? the true national feel, the
strong connections from chapter to chapter, the personal relationships with volunteers, staff, and members alike. As I?ve worked mostly with the collegiate membership, I have also noticed confusion around the concept of brotherhood. Many describe it as a stronger version of friendship but is that what brotherhood truly is? Just a strong friendship? I think that is the foundation of brotherhood but not the complete structure. I believe brotherhood is bigger. Brotherhood is deeper. Brotherhood differentiates fraternity from all other clubs and organizations. What is brotherhood and how does one build brotherhood? Brotherhood doesn?t just happen magically the day you receive your bid. It would be wonderful if it was that easy, that because you have the same letters printed on your shirts, you suddenly have a deeper connection with these men in college than you do with your friends from high school or back home. But in reality, what makes it a brotherhood isn?t some magical force, but the depth of the relationships you build and the commitment you?ve made to the betterment of each other? that?s brotherhood. It?s a level up from friendship, because we can?t back out when we?re angry or disappointed in each other. Brotherhood means you?ve committed to living and holding others to higher standards-? and, most importantly, the brothers are counting on you to uphold your obligation.
Understanding Friendships
and Happiness).
In order to understand brotherhood, we must first understand friendship. Asking around to the chapters, many say a friend is, ?someone who knows you really well and hangs out with you a lot,? or someone ?with common interests and values.?
Side One of the Frientimacy Triangle: Positivity in Brotherhood
The dictionary definition is, ?a person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection based on common interests, history, common values, and equality.? Knowing this, how does it relate to fraternity? Social psychologists have studied different types of relationships and found that, at the core, friendships must have three components in order for the two parties to feel value and want to continue that friendship. Those three values include positivity, consistency, and vulnerability and make up the three sides of the "frientiamcy triangle." The pieces are not stagnant or end destinations, but ever-changing and require hard work and reliability. You must start with positivity, build upon consistency, which then in turn, allows for vulnerability. Every successful friendship needs all three parts in order to produce something meaningful, and it requires conscious thought and effort from both parties. More simply, positivity + consistency + vulnerability = frientimacy. Frientimacy is built when both people feel seen in a safe and satisfying way (Sashta Nelson, Frientimacy: How to Deepen Friendship for Lifelong Health
Before we can understand how to be better brothers, we have to first understand how to be better friends. The first rung in our friendship ladder is positivity. At the base level, the fraternity experience should bring us joy. The relationships we build are positive additions to our lives? there?s excitement to attend functions with each other, there?s encouragement to host or plan an event, and there is a respect and appreciation when things are done and done well. This is often the first reason that people start to question their membership? they no longer experience the joy of the organization or they feel unhappy, unwelcome, or isolated. Positivity doesn?t mean that chapter meetings are always exciting and full of fun, and it certainly doesn?t mean having more events or only social events. It means that overall, the fraternity should first and foremost be a positive experience for its members. The members should feel accepted, energized, welcomed, and heard throughout their experience. This means giving your brothers the benefit of the doubt when a mistake is made and communicating in a way that expresses your feelings and thoughts without belittling them, and while simultaneously working to build them up. This article continues on the next page. The Triangle | Fall 2018
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Side Two of the Frientimacy Triangle: Consistency Through Brotherhood Consistency seems easy in the fraternity experience because there has been a system established that allows for consistent relationships to occur and flourish: chapter meetings, brotherhood events, service projects, etc. Consistency is developing a level of predictability and trust with one another. The system makes consistency appear easy but it?s not as easy as it seems. This is the most difficult to build because Phi Mu Delta members have a lot happening in their lives! Our 2016 national undergraduate membership census told us that the undergraduate population is involved in the following ways: - 34% serve as Orientation Leaders - 41% hold leadership roles on their campus Inter-fraternity Council - 31% work as Resident Assistants on campus - 32% are tutors, helping their peers academically - 15% serve their peers on student government - 25% are involved in theater or drama productions 33
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- 11% are engaged in a political organization on campus; and - 38% are studying in STEM related fields. And don?t forget, 100% of our undergraduate membership are college students. Many are working full or part-time jobs, involved in officer positions within the chapter, and have personal lives and family obligations. Phi Mu Delta men are busy! Here?s the problem? consistency can only be built over time. If we don?t give brothers time to build consistency and learn about each other, we?ll never achieve the brotherhood we want and need.
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When there?s negative moments, recognize them, apologize for wrongdoing, and find a solution to prevent it in the future. In its basic form, it?s maturity. It?s also your attitude and outlook during the inevitable tough times that members face during their fraternity experience.
Positivity + Consistency + Vulnerability= Frientimacy
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The lack of consistency is seen and felt once you leave the hallowed halls of your institution. When we leave our 4-year consistent friend group and develop completely different routines and habits as professionals, potentially in different locations throughout the country, we see a shift in how we as professional, working adults, develop friendships.
Post-collegiate adulthood proves that making friends isn?t as easy because consistency is that much harder to maintain. Side Three of the Frientimacy Triangle: Vulnerability in Response to Brotherhood Vulnerability is the most challenging, but arguably, the most crucial when it comes to moving from friendships to brotherhood. In order to be brothers, you must first know each other, on a deeper level than just the basics. While knowing your brothers?birthdays and academic majors are important, it is only one aspect of their grand and complicated lives. Vulnerability doesn?t mean you share your deepest, darkest secrets with everyone in the chapter? it means making a conscious effort to genuinely know each of the members and commit to being your most authentic self so your fellow brothers can be welcomed, listened to, valued, and heard throughout their membership, too. Vulnerability isn?t ?word vomiting? your problems and it isn?t sharing every little detail about yourself. It?s finding the balance between bottling up everything, for the sake of not wanting to seem weak, and over-sharing as a result of comfortability; this is different for everyone and based on the positivity and consistency you?ve built with the other person, vulnerability is easier for some than for others. Probably most important, is that
in its basic form, vulnerability requires self-awareness. In order to share about yourself, you first have to know yourself in non-surface level ways and be willing to accept who you are. Allow your brothers to be vulnerable with you even if you aren?t ready to reciprocate. Give them the space to share their thoughts, ideas, concerns, and experiences with you. Being a judgment-free zone will allow you to experience vulnerability and in the end, will teach you how to be more vulnerable in return. From Frientimacy to Brotherhood So, how does brotherhood play into this equation? Each of us took an oath committing to the fellow brothers (or sisters) in our organization. As a sister of Sigma Sigma Sigma, taking the oath during initiation bound me to the women standing in front of me, the sisters seated behind me, the previous sisters that I will never have the opportunity to meet, and women that will recite the same words years after me. This oath not only bound us as sisters, for life, but it was also a commitment to ourselves to be and do better and to help each other do the same. That?s how brotherhood is different than simple lifelong friendship. You promised to help each brother be the best versions of one another. The missing piece of frientimacy in the creation of brotherhood is betterment.
Betterment makes your chapter a fraternity and not a club. The oath taken during initiation is a commitment you?ve made to being a better person through your membership. As a result, how are we intentionally providing this to everyone that joins Phi Mu Delta?
Theoath taken during initiation is acommitment you'vemadeto being a better person through your membership.
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This is both calling out the negative behaviors but encouraging and recognizing the positive ones. No one wants to hear you drag them down? betterment is a juggling act of harsh love and brotherly love. I think about my sorority sisters and how they challenged me to think differently. I grew up outside a large city with a big family? my best friend had the opposite experience: small town and an only child. She taught me more about family dynamics and how two people can grow up differently than anyone else I have encountered. Accountability is hard. I first learned peer-to-peer accountability by doing it incorrectly but in that, I am better for it. I came back from a summer conference wide-eyed and ready to change the world, but my sisters were not ready
for my aggressive approach to change and were very combative with me. I learned the new and inventive ways to approach introducing change? skills and lessons I never thought about until sorority provided them to me. When holding your brothers accountable, be honest but also be kind. As Sam Waltemeyer, Past National President, says, ?Be brutally honest without being brutal.? Always come from a place of care and concern? mistakes happen but the response and encouragement to learn and grow from those mistakes is really what counts.
Bebrutally honest without being brutal.
"
Through your relationships, you provide the unique opportunity for lifelong betterment of your brothers. It?s important to note, that you won?t have the same relationship with every member in your chapter, and that?s okay. If everyone in the chapter has a few strong connections with each other, think about how different your chapter could be, and how much positive change we could inspire in each other, our communities, and moreover, in the world.
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LEARNINGTO
WIELD THE GAVEL Redef iningf raternity through leadingothers By Zachary Kaiser '18 Past Chapter President, Mu Upsilon- Robert Morris
M
? e, in a fraternity? Absolutely not, I would never join a fraternity.? ?Alright, alright, so I joined a fraternity... now what? You want me to be the President? You want me to be the President of this totally new organization on campus and you expect me to lead these men to become a chartered chapter of the National Fraternity? Okay, sign me up!" That is merely the prologue to the story which I now label as my experience in Phi Mu Delta. On August 29, 2016, I answered a phone call during which I was asked whether or not I was interested in becoming a part of something new and exciting coming to campus. On September 7, 2016, I said yes. On September 24, 2016, I started my journey down a path of unfamiliarity and of unknown potential as the President of the Mu Upsilon Colony, now chapter. I had no clue what I was really getting myself into. I understood that a great deal of responsibility 35
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was to be placed upon me. However, I had no clue that my life was going to be forever changed by Phi Mu Delta and my learning to wield the gavel.
Life or what it meant to be in charge of a brand-new fraternity among the six that were already present on our university?s campus.
I joined Phi Mu Delta despite my lack of desire to be a part of Greek Life because I found empowerment in knowing what Phi Mu Delta stood for. When I learned that our organization was the first to accept all men regardless of their race, color, creed, or position in 1918, I was blown away by the fact that an organization could be so progressive in a time of such high racial tension, prejudice, and hatred.
I had to learn so many things in a little period of time: how to run chapter meetings, how to lead an executive board, how to recruit like-minded men, how to operate within the Greek community. And one of the biggest lessons I learned in the very beginning of my tenure as President, was how to delegate rather than do.
I met with, at the time, Director of Chapter Services and Growth, Jackie Hackett, multiple times to ask questions about the fraternity and what it truly meant to be a fraternity man. When I was elected President of the Colony, I believe I talked to Jackie on the phone more than I talked to my own mother. I had no idea what I was doing. I didn?t know the first thing about Greek
I have always been the type of person that believed in the phrase ?if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.? Having that mentality made leading a colony extremely difficult, because I had to alter my mindset to ?we? instead of ?I.? When it came to chapter operations, planning events, and arranging service projects and mixers, the role of the President allowed me to overcome the anxiety related to letting go and
trusting that my brothers could take care of whatever I needed them to take care of. Delegating as the President allowed me to invest in my brothers and give them opportunities to explore strengths that they did not know they possessed. While there were a multitude of lessons that I had learned throughout my tenure, one of the most prominent lessons revealed to me through this role was the importance of a genuine investment in your brothers. I came to realize that fraternity was more than a Monday night meeting and a few events where you hung out and talked about pop culture and ate until you felt like you could explode. Fraternity for me, was about learning about each and every brother so that I could tap the potential they brought to the table in order to grow them as men, while also moving forward and advancing the chapter. I was seeing myself grow a tremendous amount within the organization. I was becoming more and more confident with my leadership style and its effect on others. Because of my development inside the chapter, I also started noticing the skills I was refining, manifest themselves in areas outside of the chapter. I was a Community Advisor, or RA on my campus. The two roles were very similar in that I had to manage a large group of men and lead those men to make smart decisions. I had to plan events, mediate and manage conflict, and I had to convince people that I did not write the policies, I merely had to enforce them. It was an ?ah-ha?
moment for me when I realized just how much the role of Chapter President was helping to develop me as a leader in many other areas on campus.
Fraternityfor me,wasabout learningabout eachand everybrother sothat I could tapthepotential they brought tothetableinorder togrowthemasmen,while alsomovingforwardand advancingthechapter.
" Fortunately, during my time as the President, I got to witness momentous progress within the brotherhood. I got to witness small and large victories and I definitely made sure to celebrate them all. However, where there are victories, there are also losses and we were not immune to the impending storms on the horizon. At one point, our membership dropped a quarter in size, recruitment was a true mystery to us all, and we were not sure what to do or how to
turn things around. It seemed as if failure was imminent, and probably because failure is all we allowed ourselves to see. I distinctly remember walking to chapter defeated one evening when someone said, ?giving up is the only sure way to fail.? I had just been taught the greatest lesson I had to learn while I was in my role. That day I learned that it is when you cease trying to accomplish a feat that you become defeated. In order to thrive, you must find a will to survive, and this extends farther into our brotherhood than I realized. A year and a half later, I passed the presidency off to my predecessor and began planning for my approaching graduation. I am still amazed at the fact that the role of Chapter President truly prepared me for my post-graduation endeavors. Currently, I am an Assistant Resident Director at a university while working towards my master?s degree in Higher Education Administration. Because serving as Chapter President taught me valuable lessons in leadership, delegation, and persistence, I could not feel more confident in this new chapter of my life. The role of President has given me the confidence to tackle things that I did not know I could do. My Presidency serves as an honest testament to change and personal growth in my life and I am forever thankful to have had the opportunity to learn to wield the gavel to the best of my ability.
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CHAPTER
NEWS
NUBETACHAPTER UNIVERSITYOFNEWHAMPSHIRE Nu Beta has started the fall semester well! The brothers climbed Mt. Major on Labor Day Weekend. Volunteering at Durham Day allowed the chapter to meet many town residents. We wrapped up recruitment week with an ice cream truck, giving out over 500 sandwiches to students, faculty, and the university president.
NUGAMMACHAPTER UNIVERSITYOFVERMONT Nu Gamma held its Retreat Weekend on October 20th at a cabin in Cambridge, Vermont and solidified their ties between new members and initiated members. Nu Gamma is also ramping up for Movember fundraising and the Mr. UVM handsomeness pageant . 37
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MUALPHACHAPTER SUSQUEHANNAUNIVERSITY Mu Alpha is continuing to work with Ashburn's Animals and are starting to work with Transitions, a local domestic violence shelter. On October 26th, the chapter held their annual haunted house. They inducted four new members this semester and have 50 men total in the chapter. In the spring, we will be looking to do a service and philanthropy week.
MUBETACHAPTER OHIONORTHERNUNIVERSITY Mu Beta joined alumnae from Phi Beta Psi Sorority at Purse Bingo, which helps raise money for cancer research. Additionally, the Mu Beta Chapter received the Clarence Dexter Pierce Chapter of the Year Award for the second year in a row, at a ceremony on September 30th.
CHAPTER
NUTHETACHAPTER ?RENSSELAERPOLYTECHNICINSTITUTE Nu Theta wrapped up their rush week the first week of November, having held a plethora of well-planned events which led to high attendance and a lot of potential new member interest. Nu Theta looks forward to next semester 's recruitment.
NUXI CHAPTER UNIVERSITYOFSOUTHERNMAINE Nu Xi co-hosted the 2nd Annual Halloween Fire Prevention Festival on October 27th, alongside the University Neighborhood Organization and Kappa Delta Phi Sorority. Nu Xi also hosted a grilled cheese night on November 15th, where members of the campus community could order a grilled cheese and have it delivered by a brother.
NEWS
MUZETACHAPTER LOCKHAVENUNIVERSITY Mu Zeta successfully recruited and initiated two new brothers this semester, Danny Adam and Tyler Rothmann. And on October 26th, Mu Zeta Brother Corey Woomer, was named Fan Favorite for raising the most money at Zeta Tau Alpha's Big Man on Campus event.
MUTHETACHAPTER INDIANAUNIVERSITYOFPENNSYLVANIA The Mu Theta Chapter has hosted or participated in 25 events this semester, including IUP's Day of Service, Into The Streets Day. Mu Theta also hosted a bake sale on November 1st, and the proceeds from the items sold were donated to the Indiana County Humane Society.
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CHAPTER
NEWS
MUXI CHAPTER PENNSYLVANIACOLLEGEOFTECHNOLOGY
SIGMAALPHACHAPTER LONGWOODUNIVERSITY
Mu Xi completed community service by helping with the Color Me LIVS 5K benefiting both the Lycoming Valley Intermediate School and Jackson Primary School on October 20th. The chapter also welcomed eight new members this semester and inducted them mid-October.
Sigma Alpha joined the sisters of Sigma Kappa for their annual Walk to End Alzheimers in early October. During Longwood's Oktoberfest Weekend, the brothers served up tacos at their Oktoberfest booth, to raise money for the national and local philanthropy. Additionally, the brothers have been hard at work painting a fence for the Bolt family.
MUOMICRONCHAPTER FROSTBURGSTATEUNIVERSITY Mu Omicron has had a productive semester, hosting events and attending campus wide events. A group of brothers have been involved in multiple intramural sports including dodge ball and flag football. Mu Omicron also hosted one of the four Cornerstone Institutes which were held to develop chapter leadership in membership related areas. 39
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MURHOCHAPTER SHAWNEESTATEUNIVERSITY Mu Rho hosted a Video Game Night on September 4th to meet potential new members and bond with one another. Additionally, the chapter just recently held elections and initiated one new member into the brotherhood.
CHAPTER
MUSIGMACHAPTER RUTGERSUNIVERSITY- NEWBRUNSWICK Mu Sigma has been working to recognize brothers for their hard work this semester, by spotlighting a brother each week on social media, in what they are calling the PMD Brother Spotlight.
MUUPSILONCHAPTER ROBERTMORRISUNIVERSITY Mu Upsilon hosted a mid-semester retreat on October 14th. During this retreat they held a goal-focusing session, a recruitment discussion and activity, a brotherhood development activity, and a fireside chat. This retreat helped further the chapter as they prepared for the elections of their new executive board.
NEWS
MUPHI CHAPTER MARYWOODUNIVERSITY Mu Phi successfully recruited and initiated seven new members this semester, bringing their colony total to 35 members after only a year in operation. At the beginning of the semester, the colony completed group service by cleaning up the Marywood Volleyball courts to prepare for a renovation to the courts.
SIGMAGAMMACHAPTER UNIVERSITYOFLYNCHBURG Sigma Gamma hosted a Trunk or Treat Organization Fair and Fundraiser on October 30th. Sigma Gamma also won Greek Week Runner Up and were named Most Unforgettable. The colony also hosted a fundraiser for their local philanthropy on October 29th.
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BUI L DI NG BET T ER CHAPT ERS By: Jackie Hackett, M.A. Assistant Executive Director for Undergraduate Engagement Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Psi Chapter
hi Mu Delta Fraternity through the decades has seen drastic changes. In 1918, six men made the courageous decision to create something different: a place for all men to learn, grow, and develop into the future leaders and citizens of the world regardless of their race, religion, creed, or position. Fifty years later, in the 1960s, we began to prosper and opened our first National Headquarters in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with professional staff and a traveling consultant. Today, over the next 50 years later, the National Fraternity is dedicated to the same mission and is honoring the hard work and dedication of the men who came before us through educational programming for chapters and their collegiate members. Over the last few years, the National Fraternity committed to ensuring all programs had assessed learning outcomes and 41
Fall 2018 | The Triangle
In order to redefine fraternity on college campuses, the National Fraternity wants to provide top-notch programming and educational experiences for members. With this new re-branded slate of educational and leadership develop workshops and institutes, the focus on building better chapters through experience-based learning that is in-person and virtual has become the priority. While these programs will not solve all of the problems facing fraternities today, Phi Mu Delta is committed to providing members the tools to be successful and the space to learn, brainstorm, serve, lead, and grow together through a meaningful, shared experience both at the chapter level and at the national level.
All national programs achieve the learning competencies determined by the 2016-2018 National Council: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Effective communication Appreciating Diversity Social Responsibility Meaningful Interpersonal Relationships 5. Leadership Development
"
P
that 50% of the undergraduate membership would participate in a national program. The first goal has been completed and we are working diligently to achieve the second.
TheFraternity is dedicated to thesame mission and is honoring thehard work and dedication of themen who camebeforeus through educational programming for chapters and their collegiatemembers.
"
Fou n dat ion In st it u t e (Formerly Officers? Academy) Officers' Academy has existed as a national program for the last five years. Prior to this, there were regional events designed to provide chapter officers the tools to be successful over their terms. The purpose of this program is to offer nuts & bolts training to all newly elected officers. This three-day training workshop provides officers with the essential tools to manage chapter operations and attain goals for the coming year. This program is free for all 5 officers to attend and is an interactive experience.
Keyst on e In st it u t e (NEW starting in 2019) Running concurrently with the Foundation Institute is the Keystone Institute which is programming provided specifically for incoming chapter presidents. This program will provide newly elected chapter presidents with specific, one-on-one training for their upcoming terms. It will be interactive, discussion-based and applied learning with trained facilitators.
Sapph ir e Leader sh ip In st it u t e
Cor n er st on e In st it u t e The Cornerstone Institutes replaced the Recruitment Academies in the fall of 2018. The Cornerstone Institute is designed to provide chapter members the key information for having a successful chapter through recruitment, membership development, and accountability. This interactive, one-day, workshop provides attendees with knowledge and skills to improve their chapter ?s membership.
Br ick & M or t ar Webin ar Ser ies In an effort to provide more education to all members of Phi Mu Delta, we introduced the Brick & Mortar Webinar Series this fall! This series will consist of common topics, concerns, and questions posed by undergraduate and alumni of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity. They will occur every other Wednesday at 3:00pm EST. These webinars are designed to fill in the gaps and continue the conversations for strong, successful chapters outside of the program.
The Sapphire Leadership Institute is held biannually to assist all undergraduate members who are interested in learning more about leadership. This program allows participants to practice their own leadership skills in preparation for their growing role as chapter leaders. Each chapter/colony is expected to send four members to this four-day residential experience. Sapphire Leadership Institute is an essential program that helps members realize the impact one can have on the whole and how those individuals can further improve their chapters.
Navigat or Held concurrently with Sapphire Leadership Institute, Navigator is an elite program designed to introduce newly initiated members to the possibilities of their lifelong membership. This program runs concurrently with the Sapphire Leadership Institute and chapters/colonies are required to nominate one newly initiated member to attend. To qualify, the member must have been initiated during one the previous two semesters. The Triangle | Fall 2018
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Beyon d t h e Lim it s Ret r eat Beyond the Limits was developed in the fall of 2018. Beyond the Limits is a day and a half long retreat designed to rejuvenate and retool Phi Mu Delta chapters and colonies through intense discussions, activities, and goal setting. Through the philosophy of Appreciative Inquiry and Advising, the facilitator(s) will guide members through goal development in a positive, strengths-based manner. ?Appreciative Inquiry is a strengths-based approach to organizational development that replaces the traditional top-down model of power and control with one that gives all participants equal stake and voice in the process? (Fifort & Lander, 2013). This process engages and empowers individuals to imagine possibilities rather than dwelling on the problems.
Colon y Ret r eat Immediately following the installation of the colony, the National staff facilitate a colony retreat designed to provide colony members with the basic knowledge of Phi Mu Delta, chapter operations, finances, and then set goals and elect officers.
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I think that theBeyond the Limits Retreat was ableto createadeeper meaning of what being a Phi Mu Deltaman means, not just for theexecutiveboard, but theentirechapter. -Feedbackfromparticipant
"
Post -Ch ar t er in g Ret r eat One inevitable occurrence that happens to newly chartered chapters is the ?post-charter slump.? In an effort to address this issue, Phi Mu Delta Fraternity has developed a new program for newly chartered groups: the post-chartering retreat. It is designed to analyze the colony experience, learn from it, and develop new goals to work towards over the next 2-3 years through strategic planning and team building activities.
Advisor s?Academ y Advisors?Academy was launched in January 2018 and was designed to provide volunteer advisors the tools, knowledge, and best practices to advisors supporting our chapters and colonies.
Fu n din g f or Edu cat ion al Pr ogr am s The Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation funds the educational and leadership development programs that are created and facilitated by the fraternity, its staff, and program volunteers. The Foundation funds these programs using donations from alumni and friends, and sees a direct return on the program cost, in the development of men who lead and serve their chapters and the fraternity for years to come.
+ To learn more about our educational programs or how you can help impact our collegiate members through programming, visit our website: www.phimudelta.org/foundation.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Fr om The Ar chi ves Phi Mu Del t a' s ar chi ves ar e hel d at t he Nat i onal Of f i ce i n Haddon Townshi p, NJ. To schedul e a vi si t t o vi ew t he ar chi ves, pl ease emai l hq@phi mudel t a. or g.
"Our Fraternity..." WrittenbyPast National President BobZahn, MuGamma'48 FromTheTriangle, VolumeXXXII, Number 1, Winter Issue, 1958-59 The Triangle | Fall 2018
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ALUMNI
NEWS
NUBETA| NewHampshire
MUALPHA| Susquehanna
MUBETA| OhioNorthern
Rick Schlager (1998) was promoted to run the New England Region for Marketplace Home Mortgage, a billion dollar mortgage lender.
Rev. Dr. David Williams (1964) retired from parish ministry and is currently living in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina with his wife of 48 years, and their English Cocker Spaniel, Andy. After having a long career as both a psychotherapist and Episcopal clergyman, David is now retired and enjoys playing piano and volunteering with a variety of local and national organizations including a new role as the Director of Ceremonies for the Venerable Order of St. John of Jerusalem. Please feel free to contact him any time at his email, david9612@aol.com.
Michael Tehan (2006) got married in July 2017 to his wife, Bonnie West, and they are expecting a baby boy in March 2019.
NUGAMMA| Vermont Gregory Robben (2018), prior to graduation from the University of Vermont, and after a summer internships in quality improvement, accepted a position with the US Department of Veterans Affairs, working with the Cooperative Studies Program Coordination Center (CSPCC) in Jamaica Plain, Boston. His work involves coordinating clinical trials and studies in VA Hospitals and around the country.
NUEPSILON| Maine Steve Naccara (1972) has been retired for eight years after working as the Athletic Director, Vice Principal, and Principal during his 35 years in the field of education. Steve has been working at a golf course since retirement, and enjoys spending time with his wife Lynda, their three sons, and their seven grandchildren.
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John Fries (1961) who would be remembered as Jack or Skip by his brothers, earned a Master of Music degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, after graduating from Susquehanna. He returned to Susquehanna in 1966 to teach classical and jazz piano, composition, music theory, and arranging. John started the Preparatory Program in Music which still exists today, and established "Frontline," which was made up of eight singers, piano, bass, and drums. John retired from Susquehanna University in 1996, after 30 years, and began a career in real estate, and retired from real estate in 2018. He currently lives in Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania with his wife. The couple have three sons, five grandchildren, and one dog. In retirement, John spends his time playing and teaching classical and jazz piano, and working on an HO gauge model railroad in his basement.
Jeff Okrutny (1978) graduated from Ohio Northern in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. After graduating from ONU, Jeff attained three additional Master of Science Degrees in Engineering, and taught for four years at the University of Dayton's School of Engineering. Today, Jeff is an Engineer with the United Technology Corporation (Goodrich) in Troy, Ohio. Jeff is an ardent cyclist, enjoying the bike trails in Miami County. His fraternal association has continued as a Mason at Tippecanoe Lodge, where he currently serves as the Lodge Secretary.
MUEPSILON| PennState Jerry Knotts (1961) is the Co-Founder and President of California Coast Venture Forum, and currently serves as the Chairman of Entrepreneurs Without Borders, after retiring from the United States Air Force as a Colonel.
ALUMNI NUZETA| UMass- Amherst John Toohey (1962) retired in Albuquerque, New Mexico after a successful career.
MUZETA| Lock Haven William Oberle (1985) writes to the members of the Mu Zeta Chapter of Phi Mu Delta: Hello, I am in the process of collecting historical information for/from the our chapter members. The first phase focused on the names of the members from multiple composites and other records. Subsequent phases will continue to gather the missing information from phase one in addition to Little Sisters from 1982 - 1989, Sweethearts, Advisors and other details. If you were in the Mu Zeta Chapter, please send your e-mail address to the following email address: phimudeltamuzetaalumni@gmail.com
Eric Etkin (1999) Mu Zeta Alumni: Save the Date! Mu Zeta's 50th Anniversary event will be held on Saturday, April 13th at the Durrwachter Alumni Conference Center at Lock Haven University, Registration will be forthcoming via the Lock Haven University website. Eric Etkin (1999) was awarded the Distinguished Service Award at the Centennial Conclave for his service as National Vice President. Charles Durham (1993) was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award at the Centennial Conclave.
Greg Gainer fights boredom with his alter-ego, Sherwood Gainer, who is both an artist and composer. See some of his abstract, modern paintings at www.sherwoodgainer.com, and buy or stream his music from iTunes or Amazon, including his album "Bubble Burst Mode."
NEWS
Daniel Parrish (2017) and his wife, Kristin, are expecting their first child this coming April. Neil Reyes (2017) is currently stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii as a Geospatial Engineer in the United States Army. Alumni news appears in order of chapter founding, starting with our oldest chapters and ending with our newest. For corrections or spelling errors, please email triangle@phimudelta.org with your name, contact information, and the correct information or spelling.
MUKAPPA| SlipperyRock Frank Ludu (1976) has gotten married and had two children since graduating from the University of MassachusettsAmherst.
SIGMAALPHA| Longwood Michael Campion (2018) was hired as a Background Investigator for Perspecta, a government security contractor, after his graduation this past May. He currently lives and works in Northern Virginia and plans on continuing his pursuit of a career as a federal law enforcement officer. Anthony Caputo (2017) got engaged to his fiancĂŠe Rachel, in early October. Anthony currently works for the Department of the Navy's Office of Civilian Human Resources as an HR Specialist.
Do you havealumni news or lifeupdates you would likeincluded in TheTriangle? Visit our websiteat: phimudelta.org/triangleand clickSubmit Alumni News. Feel freetoalsoincludea picturebyemailingthe pictureandacaptionto triangle@phimudelta.org
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CHAPTER
ETERNAL
Pleasejoinusinrememberingour brothers whohavepassedawayfromAugust 1, 2008November 1, 2018.
NUALPHA| Connecticut H. Pierce '45 (3/29/17)
NUBETA| NewHampshire Martin Ericson '49 (11/30/09) John Hackler '71 (9/10/17) Robert Levesque '59 (7/31/10) William McGee '59 (4/2/12) John Neville '56 (10/13/16)
GAMMAALPHA| Northwestern Edward Dapples '34 (5/10/09)
NUDELTA| MIT Peter Cukor '66 (2/18/12) Neil Waler '45 (2/17/11)
NUEPSILON| Maine Donald Arsenault '56 (2/13/12) Waldo Covell '55 (6/7/17) Brian Dineen '51 (1/13/09) Frank Martin '40 (5/26/10) Willard Moulton '48 (10/9/16) Harrison Richardson '52 (2/26/09) David Russell '36 (3/28/09) Kenneth Sparks '54 (11/3/08)
MUALPHA| Susquehanna George Cooper '48 (12/17/08) Francis Gelnett '37 (11/9/10) Edward Horn '72 (11/30/08) William Kahl '62 (11/2/12) Marvin Maneval '49 (9/3/12) Clair Mitch '52 (5/29/11) John Reichard '47 (12/5/09)
MUBETA| OhioNorthern Richard Arn '59 (3/23/14) Dale Ault '58 (6/20/16) 47
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John Bogdan '76 (11/18/17) Thomas Booth '77 (3/13/14) Thomas Broyles '63 (1/14/14) Robert Cowan '46 (9/29/14) Kenneth Crawford '44 (3/20/16) Raleigh Dickerson '62 (11/15/13) James Eden '43 (10/29/13) Robert Edwards '42 (11/9/08) Jack Ewan '50 (4/21/10) Herbert Fouke '54 (3/31/09) Richard Gable '56 (11/13/15) James Gobin '52 (4/22/13) William Griffiths '55 (11/15/10) Ibrahim Habib '57 (12/10/09) John Heitzman '47 (1/21/10) Dale Hildebrand '52 (3/31/09) Jack Hovis '50 (8/4/15) David Karle '58 (6/20/18) LeRoy Keel '39 (6/7/09) William Keller '54 (6/23/10) John Klay '69 (11/29/16) James Kuhn '55 (6/18/12) Roger Lillie '52 (12/28/10) Edwin Lineberger '46 (9/18/12) George Mack '71 (12/4/12) Quentin Maxfield '47 (10/30/15) John Mertes '57 (10/30/13) Dale Mitchell '50 (2/23/10) Dick Morrison '43 (11/10/11) Donald Motter '43 (7/13/14) David Musser '79 (12/24/14) Albert Nave '43 (4/11/09) Glenn Neiswander '45 (12/5/08) Gene Pearce '57 (11/18/13) John Poma '62 (3/13/10) Kenneth Prentice '50 (11/5/13) David Runnion '65 (12/5/10) David Sano '53 (1/22/11) Edward Schilling '45 (8/30/15) George Schueller '56 (7/15/16) Jeffrey Scott '87 (8/13/14) Richard Senff '65 (3/28/16) George Smith '47 (9/7/11) Joseph Smith '38 (1/13/11) Melvin Smith '49 (1/12/16) Richard Speer '66 (4/3/13) W. Spencer '44 (6/11/09)
Charles Strasbaugh '50 (11/28/16) Ferrall Sumrell '61 (6/24/16) William Tiitto '62 (10/16/10) Dean Todd '49 (12/24/12) Thomas Winsley '51 (2/12/15) Jack Witner '52 (1/23/14) Charles Wolfert '65 (10/4/10) Donald Young '52 (3/17/10)
MUGAMMA| OhioState Richard Huntsberger '57 (11/25/12)
NUETA| RhodeIsland Denis Abbate '72 (1/7/12) Daniel Barney '72 (5/27/10) Paul Blease '53 (6/9/09) Gilbert Brown '50 (10/30/08) James Cotter '74 (11/6/17) William Davis '50 (1/22/11) Edgar Forest '39 (11/7/12) Stewart Hall '58 (7/6/17) Kenneth Jorjorian '48 (3/9/10) Pete Klanian '54 (1/23/13) George LaTour '60 (8/28/18) Albert Saunders '56 (3/7/12)
NUTHETA| RPI Robert Allaire '51 (8/17/12) William Bauer '56 (12/2/09) Arthur Dover '54 (5/18/10) Daniel Evans '57 (10/22/10) Ross Mamola '51 (10/1/12) Harold Sweet '42 (10/9/11)
MUDELTA| Wittenberg Robert Arnholt '44 (5/25/14) Frank Bales '47 (12/22/13) Joseph Beaver '55 (5/8/09) Terry Boate '65 (8/13/13) Charles Buchy '55 (10/10/10) Robert Buchy '57 (7/14/15) Todd Chambers '75 (1/2/15) W. Coulter '77 (1/1/13) Wayne Dawson '64 (10/1/14) Alfred DeLanis '59 (10/28/14)
CHAPTER Donald Dennis '39 (12/20/13) James Ehrle '53 (12/27/10) Ernest Eng '62 (3/9/16) Harold Figley '49 (12/1/12) Donald George '43 (5/10/09) Daniel Glatz '68 (8/21/08) George Henkle '33 (7/26/09) Ronald Holden '60 (8/13/10) Albert Hollowell '50 (7/10/10) Jack House '47 (7/1/10) Paul Klosinski '52 (2/26/09) James Lear '69 (2/28/09) Charles Lininger '53 (8/23/12) Donald Lunda '47 (10/1/12) David Massie '75 (11/1/12) Clifford McRae '61 (12/1/09) Ivan Miller '48 (8/28/08) William Miller '42 (4/30/15) Don Moore '51 (4/12/09) Steve Neely '66 (3/3/11) Jack Nouse '47 (7/1/10) Paul O'Brian '42 (8/2/16) Wade O'Brian '40 (9/26/08) Julian Peterson '61 (3/25/12) William Peterson '61 (3/25/12) Robert Petticrew '51 (5/29/09) Steve Rhoades '64 (10/1/14) Robert Shackelford '69 (8/26/11) Frank Starkey '53 (5/20/13) Charles Sutermaster '49 (7/26/11) Ted Thompson '65 (7/28/13) Herman Witthoft '49 (10/31/10) Peter Wolff '57 (3/30/14) Harry Yingst '57 (12/3/08)
MUEPSILON| PennState W. Jay Hofecker '55 (3/8/09) Ronald Resh '60 (10/26/10) David Schafer '65 (12/16/13)
ETERNAL
NUXI | SouthernMaine William Adams '70 (12/22/17)
MUZETA| Lock Haven William Yantz '70 (6/13/16)
GAMMAPSI | Tarkio Donald Rizzo '71 (8/2/14)
SIGMAALPHA| Longwood John "Alex" Blanton '18 (7/14/18)
MURHO| Shawnee John Morris '15 (2/6/17)
CHAPTERUNKNOWN Richard Clark '57 (12/28/13) Lynn Rainsberger '44 (11/11/14)
Special Note: Chapter Eternal appears in order of chapter founding. Each deceased brother is recorded in the Chapter Eternal with their name, class year, and the date of their death in parenthesis. As we work to keep records up-to-date, please notify us of any deceased brothers who are not noted in the Chapter Eternal. For corrections or spelling errors, please email triangle@phimudelta.org with your name, contact information, and the correct information or spelling.
NUZETA| UMass-Amherst Sherwood Carver '53 (1/20/17) Louis Cesario '64 (12/5/12) Eugene Turgeon '56 (6/25/12) John Walsh '57 (3/5/13)
The Triangle | Fall 2018
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[Salutation] [First Name] [Last Name] [Address Line1] [Address Line2] [City], [State], [Zip Code]