EXECUTIVE'S MESSAGE

Brothers & Friends:

THOMAS MURPHY, MU ALPHA'94 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Come June 30th, I will be ending my term as Phi Mu Delta’s Executive Director As you can imagine, this evokes many emotions It is hard to believe that seventeen years have passed since accepting the role In that time over 3,500 men have joined our Brotherhood, accounting for a quarter of our living membership I am proud to say that I have met a vast majority of those members through Chapter visits, Fraternity programs and social events over the years. We installed over 20 Chapters, opened a National Office and saw the Fraternity triple in membership. These are amazing accomplishments.

Since our centennial in 2018, there have been major changes in higher education that have had an impact on our organization. Many will point to the pandemic as a turning point, yet our current challenges began before the pandemic. COVID simply accelerated these challenges and made them more visible. Our host institutions have seen a steady decline in enrollment (particularly in the northeast) and men are seeking other avenues rather than attend college. In the last four years, Phi Mu Delta has seen a 40% decrease in membership and since the pandemic, membership engagement in both Chapter and National programs has been challenging It turns out social isolation is not good for fraternity participation

The value of attending college and joining a fraternity is regular discussion at national forums and conferences We know from the recent Gallup research (see page 4) that the benefits of fraternity membership provide greater wellbeing and opportunities for greater involvement In order for our members to see these benefits they must first be interested in and be recruited into our organization For many of our young members, simply having a conversation with a stranger can be a huge challenge We have learned that we can no longer recruit members the way we did ten years ago Recruitment must be individualized, authentic and conversational. Todays’ members are more inclusive, politically engaged, and challenge societal norms. Fraternities are seen as bastions of conformity, establishment, and homogeneity. This must change.

As I reflected on the needs of Phi Mu Delta going forward, I recognized that a good leader knows when it is time to “pass the torch”. Hence, I realized that it was my time to discuss new options with the National Council and Educational Foundation Board. Over the past few months, a succession committee has been working to ensure a smooth transition of leadership, plan for future leadership needs, and to help identify candidates who are aligned with organizational needs and strategic objectives

I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for having the confidence in me to lead this great Fraternity

The many National Council members who guided me, as well as the numerous undergraduates who taught me to be a better Brother by their example Phi Mu Delta is not a fluke We are strong because we have men who live our values, expect others to abide by our oath, and we know who we are I look forward to serving as a volunteer for the next few years as I watch the next leaders take Phi Mu Delta father than I could have ever dreamed

Thank you!