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Chapter News
SPRING 2021 CHAPTER NEWS
ADELPHI Phi Septaton Garden City, N.Y.
The number of COVID-19 cases stayed high, and the chapter was not able to do all the activities it would have liked, but it was able to support Special Olympics by participating in the Polar Plunge. The chapter also added five associate members. The chapter hosted a virtual wingbowl philanthropy event, which was held via the Zoom platform. It has also hosted Civ 5 (video game) tournaments against other fraternities on campus. The chapter plans to initiate seven members, utilizing the virtual ritual ceremony granted by the Grand Council.
AKRON Eta Triton Akron, Ohio
The chapter has had a great couple of semesters while operating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Brothers recently started an Etsy shop selling Phi Sig masks to help people support Phi Sig while staying safe and healthy.
ALABAMA Omicron Deuteron Tuscaloosa, Ala.
The chapter recruited 29 associate members during the past academic year. The chapter hosted a few brotherhood basketball events and is looking forward to the fall semester. AMERICAN Epsilon Triton Washington D.C.
APPALACHIAN STATE Delta Octaton Boone, N.C.
The chapter has had a very successful semester. Following COVID-19 guidelines, 11 associate members were added through a virtual recruitment week. Each brother also completed three community service hours, collecting a total of 155 hours for the chapter. The chapter’s philanthropy chair held an event at a local Boone restaurant and brothers raised $750 for Special Olympics. The chapter initiated eight additional men into its Brotherhood to complete the academic year. AUBURN Omega Septaton Auburn, Ala.
Members of the chapter recently initiated four new brothers and are looking forward to getting to know them better. While some COVID-19 restrictions were still in place, the chapter was able to have a good semester and is looking forward to a strong return for the fall semester.
BALL STATE Epsilon Tau Muncie, Ind.
The chapter inducted nine new members during the 2020 - 2021 academic year (seven in the fall, and two in the spring). The chapter also held its traditional Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics.
CAL POLY Eta Septaton San Luis Obispo, Calif.
The Eta Septaton Chapter at Cal Poly/San Luis Obispo won the University’s Dance Marathon competition with more members participating than any other group on campus.
CAL STATE L.A. Omega Tetarton Los Angeles, Calif.
The brothers have held several local community clean-ups in the parks located near their house. They have stated that in these tough times everyone has to come together as a community and help each other. The brothers believe this helps to promote the positive image that they want their neighbors to have about Greek Life, but it also makes an impact on the health and beauty of the community. The brothers wait patiently for their restrictions to be lifted but are going to make the best of the time they have no matter the obstacle.
CAL STATE NORTHRIDGE Xi Pentaton Northridge, Calif.
Throughout the year, the colony had several accomplishments which strengthened their Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Character. The roster includes 11 brothers and four associates, which is an increase from six members not long ago. This accomplishment was due to the guidance provided by alumni and the hard-working executive board. As Scholarship is one of the Fraternity’s Cardinal Principles, colony members hold themselves to the highest standard to make sure every brother achieves academic success. The colony’s GPA this semester was 3.452, which was the highest GPA for all fraternity chapters at Cal State/ Northridge. Members push each other to make sure they concentrate on academic performance before they move on to other activities. The colony participated in five philanthropies with a variety of sororities to network and allow members to create different relationships. The colony placed second in two of the philanthropy events. CENTRAL MISSOURI Epsilon Iota Warrensburg, Mo.
For the Fall 2020 semester, the chapter took third place overall among all IFC fraternities for academics, with a GPA of 2.98. The chapter also took second place overall in Greek Week, placing in the top three in most events. It partnered with Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority to host a formal for THRIVE students, which falls within the national philanthropy, Special Olympics. The chapter strives to actively participate in other Greek events and philanthropies to increase its campus recognition. Epsilon Iota conducted a “Quarters for Quarters” drive, for which anyone can donate spare change and loose bills throughout the day. It also held a “Wii Sports Hole-In-One,” where participants would pay $1 a shot, and if they hit a hole-in-one, they get to select a prize from the prize bowl, which consisted of Amazon gift cards and candy bags. Both fundraisers earned approximately $40-$60 each and were day projects, which made for low maintenance and easy set-up! Three additional events capped off the year. “Singing for Gold” involved karaoke outside the student union. The group received $1 to start singing, sing a specific song, make someone specific sing, or stop stinging. All proceeds went to Special Olympics. Outside of that, the chapter held Trash Day, where one it picked up trash along the highway and throughout Warrensburg. Considering the chapter only has eight brothers, the chapter has done an amazing job with campus involvement and participation. The group’s biggest issue is debt it inherited. The chapter had $15,000 worth of debt a year ago. As of April, that debt was down to approximately $3,900 but is still in desperate need of help. CINCINNATI Epsilon Octaton Cincinnati, Ohio
The Epsilon Octaton Chapter at the University of Cincinnati went through a lot of ups and downs during the spring semester. The chapter initiated seven new members throughout the year, but also had to say goodbye to seven graduating members, who received Third Degree status. The chapter also worked on updating some of its bylaws. Specifically, it added a live-in requirement for the chapter house. Overall, the brothers had a great semester.
CLEMSON Upsilon Septaton Clemson, S.C.
As a result of the outstanding job recruitment chairs have done in recent semesters, the chapter is now the largest fraternity at Clemson University, with 134 members. This is largely due to the 2020 fall associate class which boasted a 77.5% bid acceptance rate, with 31 new members. The associate class also had a GPA of 3.114, which is one of the highest marks achieved by a class of associate members in recent history. In addition, the chapter currently has a 19-man spring associate class which had an outstanding 82.6% bid acceptance rate. This is extremely impressive considering events were moved online both semesters to accommodate COVID-19 regulations. The chapter was proud to host its annual Polar Plunge once again to support South Carolina Special Olympics. This year the event was held at The Lakeside Lodge. The chapter was able to raise $7,845.28, making Polar Plunge one of the most successful IFC philanthropy events of the entire year. Three brothers competed in Alpha Tau Omega’s hot dog eating contest at ITSURWIENER. They were able to eat 15 hot dogs at an impressive time of 3 minutes and 17 seconds. This performance earned the chapter a second-place finish, only bested by ATO’s final team. The boys were still hungry after!
CORNELL Gamma Ithaca, N.Y.
The chapter reports that none of the brothers contracted COVID-19 during the fall semester. The leadership of the Executive Board and the cooperation of the Brotherhood are credited for this success. The chapter was able to recruit in creative ways, despite lower Greek life recruitment numbers. It was able to gain 22 new members. DAYTON Eta Hexaton Dayton, Ohio
Despite this year being different from any before the brothers Eta Hexaton have been able to maintain a strong bond through a multitude of virtual events and small group activities. The brothers of the chapter participated in a charity event with The St. Baldrick’s Foundation in support of childhood cancer. As a part of IFC, Eta Hexaton contributed to a group that raised about $8,000 overall. In addition to this, 16 brothers shaved their heads to raise awareness for the cause. The chapter recruited 20 associate members for Spring 2021 through a hybrid recruitment model.
EASTERN MICHIGAN Epsilon Lambda Ypsilanti, Mich.
The brothers continue to work toward building a plan to grow the chapter in the fall 2021 term. They know that chapters across the country have had similar issues with growth and believe that with the help of their local alumni, the IHQ professional staff, and a less restrictive fall they can succeed in growing the chapter.
FERRIS STATE Sigma Epsilon Big Rapids, Mich.
The brothers have held together and supported each other through this difficult year. The chapter alumni corporation recently purchased a property that the chapter will be occupying this upcoming fall. They believe that having a “home” will give them a new sense of pride and will usher in a new era for the group. GEORGE MASON Xi Septaton Fairfax, Va.
The chapter organized a March Madness Bracket Challenge in support of Special Olympics and raised more than $300. It also organized an “Egg a Phi Sig” fundraiser, which raised more than $650 for the chapter.
GEORGIA SOUTHERN Chi Septaton Statesboro, Ga.
The chapter has had a great start to 2021 and is looking forward to the fall semester. Its membership stands at 37 with a collective GPA of 2.75. The chapter recently initiated two new brothers, Will Zappala and Matthew Holcombe. Chi Septaton feels these gentlemen uphold our Cardinal Principles, and it is very excited about their future within Phi Sigma Kappa. During the pandemic, the chapter has strived to abide by COVID guidelines while still having a good time. It recently held an event with Alpha Omicron Pi to help raise money for Special Olympics. The chapter raised $100 dollars and had a high turnout for the event. Chi Septaton participated in lasts semester’s IFC golf tournament and finished in first place. The brothers that helped achieve this were Jack Edwards and Reed Curtis. The chapter is also looking forward to hosting the annual Pig Jig philanthropy and future alumni events, that will take place next semester.
GEORGIA TECH Kappa Deuteron Atlanta, Ga.
The chapter participated in an inperson/virtual hybrid recruitment process during the spring semester. Even through the struggles the pandemic has caused, the chapter continues to grow, with 58 members, seven of which were recently initiated. The chapter was able to complete the fall semester with no COVID-19 cases among the undergraduates. The chapter wasn’t as lucky for the spring semester, but through careful quarantining and maintaining safe guidelines, the chapter was able to avoid chapterwide outbreak on two separate occasions. Despite the pandemic Kappa Deuteron has been able to hold small brotherhood events to keep members connected. The chapter was able to hold a Mountain Weekend and a formal during the spring semester, thanks to the enforcement of frequent testing and contact tracing. During the fall semester, the chapter operated completely on a virtual basis. Being able to convene in person in a safe manner this spring has done wonders for chapter morale and overall brotherhood engagement. As Georgia has begun rolling out vaccines, the chapter is pleased to announce that most members are now fully vaccinated. Members look forward as things begin to shift back to normal.
HENDERSON STATE Epsilon Rho Arkadelphia, Ark.
The colony has been working hard this semester to prepare their summer recruitment plan to continue its growth to be able to charter in the near future. HOPE Tau Septaton Holland, Mich.
The chapter was able to recruit seven new members by utilizing virtual recruitment. The entire Brotherhood participated in Hope College’s Dance Marathon, helping to raise $292,851.22 for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.
THE BROTHERS OF THE TAU SEPTATON CHAPTER AT HOPE COLLEGE.
ILLINOIS Alpha Deuteron Champaign, Ill.
The chapter has continued to show strength in the face of challenges posed by public health and the University. The chapter has 108 undergraduates, recently welcoming eight new members to the Brotherhood. Considering coronavirus protocols, the chapter was able to host a 5K philanthropy event with Phi Sigma Sigma to raise money for Special Olympics. This year showed continued trends of academic excellence within Alpha Deuteron, as it ranked eighth among all other fraternities at the University. Given the challenges of this past year, Alpha Deuteron hopes to continue this great progress in strengthening their Brotherhood. INDIANA Sigma Triton Bloomington, Ind.
The men held a philanthropy event to raise funds to fight germ cell cancer. The event raised more than $6,000 for Brother Ryan Kilrea (Indiana ’23), who was recently diagnosed with the disease.
IUP Theta Pentaton Indiana, Pa.
The Theta Pentaton Chapter recruited nine associate members this fall, which is its largest associate class in three years! The chapter is continuing to raise funds for the Indiana County Special Olympics by hosting an Instagram Bingo fundraiser.
KENT STATE Beta Tetarton Kent, Ohio
The Beta Tetarton Chapter has initiated nine members over the course of the 2020-2021 academic year. The chapter has worked hard to keep its members and community safe during the pandemic and has held a variety of virtual brotherhood events to facilitate engagement for their brothers. The chapter held its first-ever Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics, transitioning away from its normal in-person event at this time. Beta Tetarton received multiple standards of excellence awards from the University and looks forward to the possibility of resuming in-person events when allowed to do so.
ALPHA DEUTERON BROTHER MAXWELL MCWILLIAMS (CENTER) WITH MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2024 AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS.
KENTUCKY Phi Deuteron Lexington, Ky.
The chapter has 112 undergraduate brothers. The chapter initiated 12 members this spring. Even with the pandemic, the chapter has been doing its best to grow as one united chapter. The chapter was awarded the Dean’s Cup, which is given to the most outstanding fraternity chapter on campus. The brothers are very excited about this award because it’s an amazing accomplishment. The chapter has also been partnering with Special Olympics this semester. Brothers hosted an event with the athletes, which was a great success even with the pandemic circumstances.
PHI DEUTERON BROTHERS TOOK PART IN THE POLAR PLUNGE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY TO SUPPORT SPECIAL OLYMPICS.
PHI SIG FORWARD
LIU POST Pi Tetarton Greenvale, N.Y.
Pi Tetarton has been keeping active during this spring semester. Due to the pandemic, most activities have been put online, however have been very successful. Although weekly chapter meetings are done virtually, the Pi Tetarton Chapter has had an amazing attendance every week with engaging discussions among brothers. Every Tuesday, the chapter also holds an online TTT Tuesday event where brothers can hang out, talk after classes, and play games. During the month of April, the chapter competed in online Greek Week events held by LIU/ Post to spread Greek positivity and togetherness for fraternities and sororities. The chapter is Damn Proud of what it has done so far and plans to continue to go above and beyond to make sure the Phi Sigma Kappa name is spread in positivity and greatness.
LEHIGH Nu Bethlehem, Penn.
Despite the past year being an unusual time, it has been a great year for Nu Chapter. Through online recruitment, the chapter was able to recruit 13 new members, bringing the chapter’s roster to 42 undergraduates. The chapter has also made a great effort to focus on scholarship as its GPA has risen to 3.66, a 0.7 increase. The chapter held its 4th annual Blue Light Ball in honor of the late Jeanne Clery and to raise awareness for sexual assault awareness month. With campus restrictions beginning to lessen, the brothers are excited for the fall and for its members to finally all be back in the chapter house for the first time in over a year. MARYLAND Eta College Park, Md.
The chapter worked through a virtual recruitment process this semester, showing brotherhood and flexibility during the pandemic. As a result, Eta welcomed 21 associates into the chapter. The chapter also co-sponsored a PSA event, a club dedicated to educating the Greek Life community and entire student body on Preventing Sexual Assault. The week-long event, entitled “Occupy McKeldin,” featured students on McKeldin Mall throughout the week discussing sexual assault and the type of negative environment it can create.
MIT Omicron Cambridge, Mass.
The brothers have kept the chapter moving forward through the pandemic. While both of their houses remain closed, the chapter still engaged in a variety of virtual social interactions. They’ve recruited a strong group of men that will soon initiate and they look forward to the fall when they can return to their nearly 100-year-old house.
MASSACHUSETTS Alpha Amherst, Mass.
The chapter added 19 new associate members this spring who have shown great promise in being future leaders of the chapter. The addition of these new members brings the chapter’s undergraduate total to 82 members. The brothers of Alpha Chapter partnered with the University during the spring semester to slow the spread of COVID-19 on campus. Brothers volunteered to do “Green Check Marks” at high-traffic locations on campus. The green checkmark shows which students are compliant with twice a week testing to make sure students are staying safe. Our brothers used their time together this semester to revitalize the house and the exterior with maintenance and improvement projects. A library, full gym, and sports den area were added to the house. Their dedicated alumni have been working directly with the brothers with the inaugural weekly alumni speaker series. Each week fellow alumni provide valuable career and educational advice to initiate and associate members. The benefits have been shown, as 60% of the Brotherhood were named to the Dean’s List during the academic year. The chapter has also been working on releasing a Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion and Title XI action plan that will require mandatory semesterly training beginning in the fall. The chapter has been hosting philanthropy events like a Golf Invitational, March Madness Bracket Challenge, or wristband sale that has raised a cumulative $7,500 in the last year alone. Alpha Chapter continues to demonstrate growth and leadership within Phi Sigma Kappa, the Greek community, and the UMass Amherst community. They hope to continue this progress and create future leaders that will achieve everything they hope to accomplish. MICHIGAN Delta Deuteron Ann Arbor, Mich.
The chapter has successfully carried out various events, both socially distanced and virtually to adhere to COVID-19 policy and recommendations set by the University and the Grand Chapter. The chapter was also able to keep brotherhood morale high during the pandemic. The chapter has also planned out strategies for successful recruitment in the future.
MINNESOTA Beta Deuteron Minneapolis, Minn.
Despite the obvious setbacks and struggles of the year, Beta Deuteron found new and interesting ways to bring brothers together. One of these was through its new recurring brotherhood event, Books and Burgers. Every Friday, the chapter sets aside a few hours for brothers to get together and study, and then immediately after, they grill burgers and hot dogs for everyone. The chapter has found this to be a great way to promote two of the Cardinal Principles, Brotherhood, and Scholarship. Beta Deuteron also showed its character by raising more than $4,000 for B+, a foundation that raises money for children and families with cancer. These types of things are what Beta Deuteron is all about, and the chapter is excited to continue innovating and finding ways to support growth within the chapter and its community.
NJIT Alpha Octaton Newark, N.J..
COVID-19 cases remained high in New Jersey and the chapter was limited to the kinds of activities it could do. The chapter was still able to support the local community by cleaning up the neighborhood. The chapter added five associate members this semester. The chapter has been able to keep busy throughout the pandemic with a lot of philanthropy and brotherhood events to help those in need while making sure it stays as close as ever through these times. The chapter looks forward to finding some normalcy next semester to continue growing.
The chapter currently has 63 undergraduate members with an addition of eight new members in this recent spring semester. The chapter has executed multiple events to combat the hardships of COVID-19. In the fall semester, the chapter conducted its first-ever virtual Moonlight Girl competition and raised more than $10,000 for Special Olympics and $1,500 for the Shadow’s Foundation. Besides the selfless donations, the community came together to raise more than 1,000 pounds of clothing for the neighboring homeless shelters. The Brotherhood stayed active with various community service events, such as street cleanups in the surrounding neighborhoods and on campus. The chapter also maintained frequent brotherhood activities through snowboarding trips, frisbee tournaments, and other outdoor activities around Flagstaff. While preserving a strong Brotherhood, the men of Rho Hexaton also continued to create great relations within the community. Brother CJ Ontiveros participated and won Chi Omega’s CHIO Crush philanthropy event for which a total of $20,000 was raised throughout the week. Although the chapter has encountered many hardships during the pandemic, Rho Hexaton is looking forward to a great semester in the fall! NORTHEASTERN STATE Epsilon Epsilon Tahlequah, Okla.
NORTHERN ARIZONA Rho Hexaton Flagstaff, Ariz.
NIU Pi Pentaton DeKalb, Ill.
The brothers have been able to recruit in the spring after the school did not allow for fall 2020 recruitment. The chapter officers have done their best work to stay engaged positively with their community and the administration and have used this time to strengthen the bonds of those partnerships. The chapter is looking forward to the 68th General Convention and plan to send a number of their officers in person
NORTHWEST MISSOURI Epsilon Nu Maryville, Mo.
The chapter just achieved the highest fraternity GPA for the fall 2020 semester. Brother Spencer Gouldsmith was recognized as undergraduate of the year and James Palmer was named Outstanding Greek Man. The chapter is currently focused on finishing the school year strong and transitioning their new Executive Board into office.
OHIO STATE Pi Deuteron Columbus, Ohio.
In a year riddled with anxiety and problems around seemingly every corner, the Pi Deuteron Chapter at Ohio State has seen a reinvestment in personal friendships, camaraderie, and a much-needed boost in morale. Switching to a hybrid chapter has kept brothers connected and prioritized the Brotherhood as a guiding force in their lives. Small brotherhood events were hosted nearly every week to maintain the chapter. Most excitingly, in the spring ’21 semester, Pi Deuteron recruited and initiated its largest class in three years! Pi Deuteron remains committed to our Cardinal Principles and is excited for Autumn ’21 and beyond! PENN STATE Kappa State College, Pa.
As a chapter, Kappa at Penn State raised more than $60,000 for the Four Diamonds Fund/Thon, and had two brothers participate in the 48hour dance marathon at the chapter house.
PITTSBURG STATE Beta Epsilon Pittsburg, Kan.
The chapter recently received the chapter of the year award from the University, along with an award for its membership education. Two members were also inducted into Order of Omega. The chapter earned the highest GPA among all fraternities on campus for the fall semester with a 3.129 cumulative GPA. The chapter boasts 10 newly initiated members, with a total of 35 undergraduates.
PURDUE Delta Triton West Lafayette, Ind.
The chapter has had a successful year, even throughout the pandemic. The chapter virtually initiated 14 associates in the fall class and 17 associates in the most recent spring class. The chapter now has an all-time high of 106 undergraduate members. The chapter has had many philanthropic events throughout the academic year. Several brothers participated in the Polar Plunge and raised more than $1,000 for Special Olympics. More brothers also took the initiative to participate in Zeta’s Big Man on Campus, to help raise money for breast cancer awareness. Brothers in Delta Triton have remained focused and diligent in their studies. Whenever brothers need a break, they can compete in a few intramural sports teams that have been created. RADFORD Mu Hexaton Radford, Va.
The brothers are looking forward to the 68th General Convention this summer in Arizona. The chapter recruited nine men and it plans to send as many as they fiscally can to this summer’s event in order to set themselves up for the best chance of success in the fall of 2021.
RENSSELAER Gamma Tetarton Troy, N.Y.
The brothers have kept busy this semester. While the University is completely virtual and campus housing is not allowed, they are able to house chapter members in their off-campus house.
ROBERT MORRIS Gamma Hexaton Coraopolis, Pa.
The chapter is the oldest organization on campus and is planning its 50th anniversary formal. Planning has been very difficult through the pandemic. After two re-schedules the chapter will finally hold the event in the fall. As a chapter of 20 undergraduates, the chapter is also looking for a turn-out of 200 alumni! Good times are surely ahead for this chapter.
RIT Upsilon Tetarton Rochester, N.Y.
The brothers have maintained a strong connection to each other during this pandemic. The chapter officers have seen this pandemic as an opportunity to strengthen their Brotherhood operationally and have put in a lot of work to make that happen. They have modified their fees and dues process and have worked to have a much more transparent and lean budget to support the chapter’s goals.
RUTGERS Nu Tetarton New Brunswick, N.J.
This semester has been a big one for the chapter. With COVID-19, recruitment took a hit, but Nu Tetarton is proud to announce that it has managed to survive due to the hard work and perseverance of its members. With a current roster size of just 12 brothers, the chapter was able to recruit 10 men to join the chapter over the last two semesters. Academically, there have been challenges that students around the world have had to face due to the circumstances brought about by the pandemic. However, the brothers of Nu Tetarton Chapter didn’t give up. They have worked hard over the last year to achieve a chapter GPA of 3.416! A number of which they are very proud! Philanthropy has also been something that was affected by COVID-19. However, the group was still able to successfully host two virtual fundraisers, along with the fine members of Phi Mu Delta and Phi Sigma Rho, to raise money for St. Peter’s Children’s hospital! With Rutgers opening its campus this fall, the brothers are excited about the endless possibilities. This pandemic has taught them to make the most of their time together on campus. They are planning many fundraising endeavors to raise money for Special Olympics. The chapter also plans to build better relationships with other organizations on campus and host fun, social and recruitment events, all while being safe and responsible! SHIPPENSBURG Phi Theta Shippensburg, Pa.
COVID-19 restrictions kept things tight in the area for most of the semester. When things recently started to loosen, the chapter was able to have a good time with the sisters of Delta Zeta, supporting Relay for Life at its Pie a PSK & DZ event
SOUTH CAROLINA Gamma Triton Columbia, S.C.
The chapter has been working to find a new chapter adviser and initiated eight new brothers into its Brotherhood. In addition to staying busy with academics, the chapter had a successful intramural soccer season.
SOUTHERN CAL Omega Deuteron Los Angeles, Calif.
The chapter recruited 33 new members through an online recruitment model. The chapter room also got a renovation, becoming an extremely popular area of the chapter house. Many brothers of the Omega Deuteron Chapter donated their blood and plasma for COVID-19 relief. They also organized a 3-on-3 basketball, dodgeball, and spike ball tournament among the members, held in the backyard of the chapter house. STETSON Kappa Hexaton DeLand, Fla..
Despite having an off year in terms of recruiting last year, the chapter has really bounced back this year by gaining eight new initiates and three new associates. COVID-19 affected the number of students on campus and as a result, the number that decided to go out for recruitment was significantly less than normal. Despite this fact, the chapter had one of the largest associate classes on campus. The chapter currently boasts a GPA of 3.1. After the seniors graduate this year, the chapter is going to be a young group, but it has a lot of momentum and has a very high bar of potential moving forward.
STEVENS Iota Hoboken, N.J..
The chapter has been working to build its alumni and public outreach through social media outlets. Many brothers, past and present, were added to the chapter LinkedIn group. In the future, the chapter hopes to use this to stay in touch, network, and gain professional experience with alumni as brothers’ transition from school to the working world. The chapter’s Instagram (@pskiota) account is being more frequently used to highlight what brothers are accomplishing. Many brothers have been working hard on projects outside of school, including startups like Forkist, a food-related review app for the New York City area and Square Mile Market , an online marketplace for local Hoboken shops and restaurants. As the end of school draws near, brothers are preparing for internships and jobs at companies like Snapchat, Amazon, Scholastic, Berkeley Research Group, O&G Industries and Stryker. Michael Bellocchio ‘21 is planning to take a road trip across the United States for six months and would love to meet any alumni along his route!
TEXAS TECH Colony Lubbock, Texas VALPARAISO Phi Upsilon Valparaiso, Ind. VIRGINIA TECH Epsilon Hexaton Blacksburg, Va.
The colony has just named its new Faculty Adviser. It was recently approved as the newest recognized fraternity on campus, and it looks forward to focusing its efforts this summer and next semester toward recruitment to grow stronger as a colony. Even with COVID-19 restrictions, the chapter managed to stay engaged and connected throughout the semester and was able to associate seven new men. The chapter also hosted guest speakers, who spoke on topics such as mental health and time management. The chapter managed to stay engaged with the community, including hosting its annual Bracket Challenge to support Special Olympics. The chapter also initiated 13 brothers into the chapter earlier this spring.
TOWSON Phi Hexaton Towson, Md. VILLANOVA Omicron Septaton Villanova, Pa. WASHINGTON ST. Chi Deuteron Pullman, Wash.
The chapter was busy this semester but was able to get out into the community and completed several neighborhood clean-up projects.
TRUMAN STATE Gamma Epsilon Kirksville, Mo..
The chapter had a great time hosting its annual car smash this past fall, as well as participating in the “Frat Dudes in Unordinary Shoes” unity event on campus.
VALDOSTA STATE Psi Septaton Valdosta, Ga. Due to the high number of COVID-19 cases in the local area, brothers were off-campus for most of the semester and were not able to recruit new members. Even with the tight restrictions, the chapter feels it managed to have a good semester and is ready for fall.
VIRGINIA Psi Charlottesville, Va.
The chapter has been doing an online fundraiser through LinkTree and selling Special Olympics t-shirts with Phi Sig letters. All profits go directly to Special Olympics. Brothers are currently finding new ways to improve their recruitment efforts, as Washington State is gaining a lot of new Greek life members for the fall of 2021. The chapter welcomed four new brothers into its Brotherhood and have been pushing through a tough financial and mental phase throughout the pandemic. The The chapter added five new brothers chapter continues to grow and is this semester for a total of 20 hoping for a big summer recruitment actives, but 13 of our undergraduates to bring new guys in for next fall. The will be graduating this semester. chapter is Damn Proud on how it is The chapter’s GPA last semester growing and how members impact was 3.0 and should be similar or each other’s lives The brothers of Psi Septaton at higher this semester. Alumni recently Valdosta State have been hard launched the Marty Humphrey at work this past semester. The Engineering Scholarship for members chapter is exceptionally proud of its of the Psi Chapter who are studying partnership with Kappa Delta and Alpha Kappa Alpha for a great Greek Week and a second-place overall engineering and exemplify the Cardinal Principles. This summer, the housing corporation will be BROTHER finish. The brothers are also very proud of their flag football team for conducting renovations on the house, including replacing flooring, updating HOOD placing in Kappa Delta’s Shamrock electrical, landscaping, and much Tournament. The chapter currently more. has 20 members, having initiated seven members this academic year. The cumulative GPA is 3.0. SCHOLARSHIP
CHARACTER
WEST VIRGINIA Delta Morgantown, W.V.
The chapter is coming off a wildly successful fall semester with the addition of more than 25 new members. Considering this, the Delta Chapter has refocused its commitment to the Cardinal Principles and sought to renew several defunct programs. To form a better relationship with Delta alumni, current undergraduates have been working under the guidance of alumni in the planning of social events as well as in the betterment of its Brotherhood. Delta plans to finish the year with a bang and host several panelists regarding everything from membership safety to substance abuse, as well as a philanthropy event benefitting the local community. Delta Chapter currently has 72 members with nine members being added during this spring semester. Its Annual Membership Survey was completed by more members than ever.
WESTERN MICHIGAN Chi Tetarton Kalamazoo, Mich.
The chapter recruited 29 men this year and plan to initiate them before the end of the semester. Brothers held multiple virtual fundraisers to support Special Olympics and other local causes and have tried to stay engaged with their community throughout the pandemic. The brothers are very excited to head into next fall term with a full house of brothers and cannot wait to begin making a positive impact through their fundraisers and other in-person events. WISCONSIN/MILWAUKEE Epsilon Phi Milwaukee, Wisc.
The chapter took on 11 associates, a little shy of its 20-30 normal number. Some events that were very successful were a canned food drive for the university food pantry, where it collected more than 600 items. The chapter also raised $700 one night from its Quick Bingo Board. This money was raised for Special Olympics. The chapter is hoping to make a community impact with Make a Difference Day with more than 15 brothers willing to donate a Saturday to clean up the neighborhood. The chapter also had some great attendance at its brotherhood events. The biggest hit was a camping trip in the north woods of Wisconsin. The incoming brotherhood/alumni event was a golf outing. Alumni should look for new emails and events as the chapter is urging its alumni club to start meeting again. The Brotherhood is hoping for a more involved alumni base as it graduates many undergraduates. The chapter is excited for the future as it continues the process of shifting to a new chapter adviser. WORCESTER Epsilon Deuteron Worcester, Mass.
The chapter was able to recruit four men this semester. WPI is still in a primarily virtual state and the brothers continue to interact from their local housing or from their primary residences across the country. The brothers at WPI hope to grow their chapter in the fall and come out of this pandemic stronger for having gone through it.
The Gamma Octaton Chapter at Young Harris was able to keep busy this semester by focusing its events to outdoor venues. Some of these events included a cornhole event and a grill out. YOUNG HARRIS Gamma Octaton Young Harris, Ga.
THE BROTHERS OF THE EPSILON PHI CHAPTER AT WISCONSIN/MILWAUKEE.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COMMITTEE UPDATE
The newly formed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee began meeting in January. After applying and being appointed by Grand President Chris Hoye (Ferris State ’91), the committee consists of members representing undergraduates, alumni members, local Chapter Advisers, and representatives from the Foundation Board, Phi Sigma Kappa Properties Board, and Court of Honor, as well as an International Headquarters professional staff liaison.
The committee has been divided into three subcommittees, including Education and Programming, Policies and Procedures, and “Action.” The Action subcommittee’s focus includes smaller projects, such as social media posts and quick resources for local chapters. These subcommittees have been hard at work already, discussing items for this summer’s 68th General Convention and ideas to implement this fall term.
The DEI Committee has already seen an increase in social media posts educating members about DEI issues. For example, after the shooting outside of Atlanta, Georgia that disproportionately targeted people who identify as Asian American, Phi Sigma Kappa posted a few educational resources around bias towards the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in support of our brothers who identify as AAPI. Additionally, Phi Sig posted about International Women’s Month, thanking the women who currently work for IHQ: Kathy Cannady, Marsha Spears, Karen Miller, and Leslie Pedigo.
Most notably, Phi Sigma Kappa celebrated Black History Month by sharing a repudiation statement on the Bedford Resolution. The full statement was sent via email and posted across all social media channels.
The DEI Committee members are proud of the accomplishments that have been made in the few short months they have been meeting. They plan to continue to work to move Phi Sig Forward toward a more inclusive Brotherhood.
For questions or comments related to the Fraternity’s most recent DEI efforts, please contact Chairman Brother Darald Stubbs (Stetson ’88) at daraldstubbs@gmail.com CHAIRMAN OF THE DEI COMMITTEE, BROTHER DARALD STUBBS
CALL FOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The Grand President will appoint brothers to sit on several standing committees/boards following the 68th General Convention. If you have an interest or experience in any of the following areas, please contact Associate Executive Director Kathy Cannady at kathy@phisigmakappa.org:
Constitution, Bylaws, and Policy Expansion Ritual Education Chapter Services Alumni Scholarship Finance Leadership and Volunteer Development
ETA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Since the last issue of The Signet, Eta alumni from the University of Maryland have experienced the lowest of lows and the highest of highs.
The group learned of the passing of Brother Thomas V. “Mike” Miller (Maryland ’64), the longest-serving President of a State Senate in the country, a loyal member in good standing of the Eta Alumni Association, and the father of Brother Thomas V. Miller (Maryland ’88).
With great shock and equal sadness, one of Eta’s recent past Chapter Presidents and youngest alumni members, Daniel Clark Tatum (Maryland ’15) was taken much too soon. They were neither the oldest or youngest alumni of Eta, but they made a positive impact on all who knew them and will surely be greatly missed.
On March 3, Eta alumni from every decade came together to participate in the University of Maryland’s “Giving Day” and propel the Phi Sigma Kappa Scholarship Fund up and over the endowment threshold. There are only two such funds to have reached endowment status. Eta’s fund was number one in monies raised on that day, and now has the largest balance among all “Greek” scholarship funds.
The alumni club sends to all Phi Sigs a wish for good health and high spirits as we all emerge from the worldwide pandemic. Damn Proud!
DID YOU KNOW?
According to Article III, Section 4 of the Fraternity’s Bylaws, the voting privilege of alumni clubs in good standing with the Grand Chapter and represented at the General Convention will be apportioned according to their number of sustaining members as paid to the Grand Chapter no later than the June 30th preceding the General Convention as follows:
0 to 25 members 26 to 45 members 46 to 65 members 66 to 85 members 86 or more members
one vote two votes three votes four votes five votes
Alumni clubs must also submit an annual Alumni Club Report to be eligible for voting privileges. Please email convention@phisigmakappa.org for more information.
WANTED: CHAPTER ADVISERS!
Want to get involved with the Fraternity, but don’t live near your chapter? Undergraduate chapters throughout the country need guidance from alumni such as yourselves. You don’t have to be from a particular chapter to be appointed as a Chapter Adviser or member of an Alumni Advisory Board.
The professional staff at the International Headquarters is helping chapters identify brothers who may be willing to serve in the role of Chapter Adviser, or provide guidance in specific areas such as finance, recruitment, member development, or risk management.
It is preferred that the Chapter Adviser live near the local chapter, but those wishing to assist in a specialized area could live anywhere in the country. Your guidance for these positions is more important than your physical location.
All Chapter Advisers will be re-appointed following the 68th General Convention. The professional staff is seeking applicants for alumni advisory roles for all chapters, but there is a specific need for a Chapter Adviser for the following local chapters:
Kappa : Penn State Psi: Virginia Gamma Triton: South Carolina Epsilon Triton: American Mu Hexaton: Radford Rho Hexaton: Northern Arizona Epsilon Epsilon: Northeastern State Epsilon Tau: Ball State
If interested or for more information, please reach out to Associate Executive Director Kathy Cannady via email at kathy@phisigmakappa.org.
CHAPTER ETERNAL
Alabama
Bryan Brown ‘13
Arizona State
Edwin S. Lane ‘58
Ball State
Michael K. Moore ‘72 Donald W. Sander ‘58
City College of New York
Norman Schaefer ‘49
Central Michigan
Robert L. Dolsen ‘58 Howard J. Rittenger ‘54
Cornell
Herbert E. Doig ‘56 Francis T. Lynch ‘56
Eastern Michigan
Patrick W. McCarthy ‘70
Emporia State
Donald N. Blythe ‘50 Clive L. Dunn ‘56 Theodore “Ted” Harder, Jr. ‘53
Ferris State
Danial C. Bird ‘79 Malik Kingsby ‘20 Joseph D. Scheerens ‘70
Florida
John H. Myers ‘57
Franklin & Marshall Ronald J. Pollock ‘59
Houston
William C. Clark, Jr. ‘61
Illinois
Donald J. Pearson ‘50
Lehigh
Alfred C. Sauerbrey ‘58
Maryland
Daniel Tatum ‘15 Charles N. Kalcounos ‘67 Thomas V. Miller, III ‘88 Grady Vickers ‘56
Massachusetts
James Durfer ‘87 Gerald W. Murphy ‘57
Minnesota
Thomas D. Abbott ‘43
Montana State
Olaf L. Johnson ‘60
Northern Illinois
Roger L. Carpenter ‘72 Gayhart J. Kmetz ‘67 Bill J. Lawlor ‘71
Oregon State
George R. Poetschat ‘64
Penn
David E. Kuendig ‘69
Penn State
Daniel G. Meckley, III ‘45
Purdue
Richard M. Keller ‘71
Rensselaer Polytech
Ronald J. Cococcia, Sr. ‘54
Rhode Island
Leon R. Audette ‘59
San Jose State Leopold Ortiz ‘51
Southern Cal
Donovan S. Boller ‘60 Herbert Vossler ‘55
Stanford
John H. Pitts ‘55
Tennessee
James L. Nicholson ‘57
Truman State
Edward K. Royse ‘58
UC/Berkeley
Robert E. Nasser ‘62
UC/Davis
Robert A. Melkesian ‘56
Wagner College
Dudley W. Goetz ‘64
Washington
Delbert G. Copeland ‘53 Harold E. Stack ‘37
West Virginia
David H. Garrett ‘59
Western Michigan David R. Sandel ‘85
Wisconsin/Eau Claire
Ted W. Wyman ‘60
Worcester Polytech John A. Mattson ‘56
Youngstown State Frank J. Karlovic ‘69
INFORMATION AS OF MAY 5, 2021
The Signet publishes Chapter Eternal to recognize and honor the passing of members. The Grand Chapter relies on our members for the deceased notices and obituaries. Please help to honor these brothers. We have recently begun a sweeping update to our database via the Lost Alumni Updater. Some of these brothers may have passed at an earlier date. If you would like more information you can contact the headquarters staff to request how we learned about the above brothers. Also due to this circumstance, some of the data above may be held over from issue to issue to inform our Brotherhood. Some information may have also been excluded at the request of the family. You can also check and provide information on brothers through our website at www.phisigmakappa. org, where you can report “Lost Alumni”.
