Eta Rho Alumni Chapter Newsletter - Spring 2025

SPRING 2025

ETA RHO

SPRING 2025

ALUMNI CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

HPAC PRESIDENT LETTER

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his year has been full of love and blessings for me personally. I currently live in Dallas, Texas, have been happily married for five years, and am a proud father to two wonderful kids, Emerson and Patrick Jr. We are truly blessed, and I’m beyond excited to serve this year as your Eta Rho Alumni Chapter president.

After several years away from campus, our beloved Eta Rho Chapter has returned—and with it, a monumental opportunity to reignite the proud Pi Kappa Phi legacy at Texas State.

The Homecoming Tailgate was nothing short of amazing. Seeing so many familiar faces, sharing laughs and celebrating our bond reminded me just how powerful the Pi Kappa Phi brotherhood truly is. That reunion energy—everyone coming together to support our collective legacy— was inspirational, and it’s only the beginning. A special thank you to the Batches for hosting.

Stephen R. Covey famously said, “Leadership is communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves.”

In other words, Covey believed that true leadership is not about issuing commands or maintaining power. It’s about uplifting—helping others recognize their innate abilities, encouraging them to grow and inspiring them to lead from within.

This perfectly echoes the spirit of Pi Kappa Phi, and especially our Eta Rho Chapter, as we embark on this renewed journey together. We’re gearing up for a funfilled season marked by the upcoming rechartering and the initiation of our newest Pi Kapps. This is your invitation to join us on this adventure.

Mark your calendars for the Re-chartering Weekend and Banquet on April 11-13, 2025. Also, don’t miss the regional event on April 1, 2025, where we will gather for the Texas State vs. Texas game in Austin. Texas State Homecoming Weekend is October 10-12, 2025. More details to come!

Take a moment to reflect: How did Pi Kappa Phi shape you—professionally, personally or in your role as a father, uncle, brother or spouse? Did it forge bonds that still matter in your life today? If so, you have a compelling reason to give back. From financial contributions to mentorship or simply showing up as a brother, your commitment can make all the difference.

All it takes is one heartfelt “yes” to influence the next 30 years of Pi Kappa Phi. We're planning local events and initiatives and you can help guide our path.

I’m thrilled to introduce our new alumni chapter executive council who I am will accomplish the mission we’ve set out to achieve. Secretary Matt Myhra (HP 277), Social Chairman Drew Gonzalez (HP 396) and Treasurer Zach Howard (HP 128). You can also visit our brand-new website to stay connected and pay your alumni dues.

Let’s make this year one for the books by coming together and showing what it truly means to be a Pi Kappa Phi. I can’t wait to see you and continue building our legacy—together.

Yours in Brotherhood, Patrick Samuels | HP #282 President, Eta Rho Alumni Chapter

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ETA RHO MEMBERS PARTICIATING IN ABILITY EXPERIENCE SUMMER EVENTS

Hello,

My name is Seth Huteson. I'm a sophomore education major at Texas State. As someone whose whole life is dedicated to service, when I first heard about Journey of Hope, I had pretty much made up my mind then and there that I was going to become a Pi Alpha. My whole life has been positively impacted by people with disabilities, such as my niece, who has cerebral palsy, dwarfism and a plethora of other names tied to her that do not define her. After learning about such an opportunity to impact the lives of many, I couldn’t say no; plus, as a gym rat, with this event revolving around physical activity, I had no excuses.

I'm super stoked for the opportunity to really make an impact on so many people's lives in a generally short time span. To be able to go from city to city, state to state, coast to coast and genuinely make an impact is such a blessing. It may be selfish of me to say this, but I'm also excited to see the views along this trip. Going through Yellowstone and all the mountain ranges is going to be awesome.

If you or anyone you know would be interested in contributing to my Journey of Hope fundraising page, donations can be made at Seth Huteson | Journey of Hope 2025.

Forever in Pi Kappa Phi, Seth Huteson Hello everyone, My name is David Cardenas, or D.C. for short. I am originally from a small town outside of Charlotte, North Carolina called Gastonia. After graduating high school in 2018, I decided to serve our country by joining the United States Marine Corps. This is one of the best and most rewarding decisions I have made up to this point in time. After the military, I moved back home and started working in corporate, and after a few months of working, I decided to move to Texas and attend Texas State University where I inevitably came across Pi Kappa Phi Leadership Consultants Cormac O’Dear and Jonathan Conerly. I knew right away from my own experience in the Marine Corps there is nothing that compares to having a brotherhood to experience life alongside with.

As of the time of this writing we are currently still working toward re-chartering our Eta Rho chapter. Somewhere along becoming chaplain and attending chapter meetings with multiple individuals from Pi Kapp National Headquarters, I met Chase Dumond, who brought up the Journey of Hope and how he recently completed the Trans America bike route. As we were talking about his journey, I began to picture myself completing a bike ride across the United States and raising awareness for people with disabilities. I knew it was going to be challenging, and I have not challenged myself anywhere near close to this since my time in the military. This thought alone made me realize that while yes, this bike ride would be extremely difficult, it does not compare to what individuals with disabilities go through all their life.

What I look the most forward to the most during the summer event is helping and bringing attention to the disability community, building comradery and forging a stronger bond while riding with the rest of the Pi Kapp brothers, seeing beautiful sunrises and sunsets of the diverse landscapes across our amazing country and lastly challenging myself to become uncomfortable for a short amount of time in service to others once again. This is a chance to prove to myself that any thought worth having is most definitely worth working towards. If you or anyone you know would be interested in donating, I would appreciate you sharing my fundraising page, DC Cardenas | Journey of Hope 2025.

God Bless, D.C.

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SPRING 2025

REFLECTIONS FROM A FOUNDING FATHER Building Brotherhood and a Lifelong Legacy - What Pi Kappa Phi Means to Me

by Brett Lee

Becoming a founding father of the Eta Rho Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi has been one of the most defining experiences of my life. This Fraternity has given me more than just a sense of belonging; it has instilled core values, fostered leadership and forged lifelong connections. For me, Pi Kappa Phi represents not only brotherhood but also the creation of a meaningful and lasting legacy.

I will forever be grateful for what Pi Kappa Phi has given me: a foundation of leadership, a commitment to service and a brotherhood that feels like family. Reflecting on my journey as a founding father and member, I am proud of the legacy we have created and am honored to share this experience with all my brothers and those yet to come.

My father and I are both proud members of Pi Kappa Phi, sharing not only the same letters but the same initiation number (Beta Chi 23, 1965 and Eta Rho 23, 1996). Being able to walk a similar path brought us closer together, creating shared experiences that have strengthened our bond. When I look at what my father gained from his time in the Fraternity—integrity, loyalty and lifelong brotherhood, I am reminded of how powerful this connection truly is.

Yours in Brotherhood,

Brett J. Lee Eta Rho Chapter Founding Father

Establishing the Eta Rho Chapter was about more than building a fraternity; it was about laying the foundation for something that would endure beyond my time on campus. The process of founding a chapter demanded teamwork, perseverance and vision. The challenges we faced taught me invaluable lessons that continue to shape my approach to life and leadership today.

Through Pi Kappa Phi, I have been afforded countless opportunities to grow as a leader. From organizing events to collaborating with my brothers to achieve ambitious goals, I learned the importance of purposeful leadership and integrity. The Fraternity’s dedication to service, exemplified through The Ability Experience, instilled in me the importance of giving back and creating a positive impact on others.

Above all, Pi Kappa Phi is defined by its brotherhood.

It is more than a fraternity, it is a network of individuals who encourage, inspire and support one another through life’s triumphs and challenges. My brothers have been my mentors, confidants and closest friends. Together, we have created something extraordinary, and I take pride in knowing that Eta Rho will continue to thrive and enrich the lives of others.

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ETA RHO ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

REFLECTIONS FROM A FOUNDING FATHER

by Seth Huteson My name is Seth Huteson, and I have the honor of serving as the re-founding archon of our beloved Eta Rho Chapter. To say that this journey of re-founding Pi Kappa Phi has been easy would be a complete understatement, but it’s been a truly rewarding experience every step of the way.

Before I joined Pi Kappa Phi, I heard people talk about how your brothers are the ones who will guide you through life, the men who will stand by your side at your wedding, be there for the birth of your children and even carry your casket when God calls for you. I used to think that was just something people said, but now, I know it’s the absolute truth. Before coming to Texas State,

"I used to think that was just something people said, but now, I know it’s the absolute truth."

I had met some great guys, but nothing compares to the brothers I’ve found in this chapter. These men hold me accountable, challenge me and support each other in ways I’ve never experienced before. The bond we share is something truly special.

I transferred here from the University of Arkansas, and I hoped this school was the right one for me. One thing I knew for sure was I wanted to go Greek. I spent all

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"This experience has provided us with more than any of us could’ve ever asked for." summer making connections in other fraternities to try and find the right fit for me. I ended up rushing every house possible in the fall and felt like nowhere was the “perfect” fit for me. Of course, I liked some houses more than others, and had my preferences, but nothing sold me. When I was presented the opportunity to start up a new fraternity on campus that other students would one day call home, I jumped on it. I contacted everyone I was rushing with and asked if they would be willing to start this idea of a fraternity with me. We all eventually signed our bids at one point or another and the story begins.

When I was asked to fill the role of archon, I was beyond ecstatic. To be able to lead the Fraternity I was the first signee on is truly an inspiration, and I'm forever thankful for the opportunity. Pi Kapp has become a home to many men around campus who are dedicated to seeing this chapter grow, and I know most men are willing to do anything for the betterment of the chapter. This experience has provided us with more than any of us could’ve ever asked for.

ODH, Seth Huteson

ETA RHO

CHAPTER OFFICER

CONTACT LIST ARCHON Seth Huteson (832) 213-7826

Wve13@txstatae.edu

VICE ARCHON Carson Taylor (817) 676-3666

Ift20@txstate.edu

TREASURER Connor Sotiropoulos (774) 502-9316

Smz69@txstate.edu

WARDEN Johnathan Laz (832) 302-1095

Yee13@txstate.edu

CHAPLAIN David Cardenas (704) 689-3914

Buk13@txstate.edu

HISTORIAN Gavin Spencer (512) 777-9536

Mai47@txstate.edu

RISK MANAGER Luke Smith (281) 702-5031

Nzq11@txstate.edu

PHILANTHROPY CHAIRMAN Connor Thomas (512) 701-4480

vmj30@txstate.edu

STANDARDS BOARD CHAIRMAN

Lawson Sheffield (512) 667-4733

Lawsontsheffield@txstate.edu SECRETARY

Megha Sirasapalli (409) 433-6491

sec.etarho.pkp@gmail.com

UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER UPDATES As we reflect on our chapter’s first semester back on campus, we are incredibly grateful for the experiences, memories and support we’ve received from our brothers and alumni. It’s been an exciting few months and we are proud to highlight some of our key events and accomplishments.

PIE-A-PI KAPP FUNDRAISER One of our most successful events this semester was our Pie-A-Pi Kapp fundraiser, which brought the community together for a great cause. Brothers stood on the quad, ready to take pies to the face from anyone willing to contribute $3 to The Ability Experience. The event was a huge success in terms of participation and fundraising.

It was great to see people come together to support a meaningful cause and have a great time doing it.

THANK YOU TO OUR ALUMNI We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our alumni. Your support has been instrumental in our growth and success this semester, and we are thankful for your guidance, mentorship and continued involvement. Whether by attending events, donating or simply offering words of encouragement we truly appreciate all that you do for our chapter. The legacy that you helped build is the foundation on which we stand today, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen the Eta Rho bond for years to come.

HOMECOMING TAILGATE The Homecoming tailgate was filled with excitement, pride and strong brotherhood. Student members and alumni alike gathered to celebrate our return to campus and enjoy the game day atmosphere. It was a great opportunity to connect with our alumni, many of whom passed down stories and memories from their time in the Fraternity. It was a great way to kick off the Homecoming weekend!

LOOKING AHEAD As we move into the spring semester, we’re excited about what’s next. Our chapter is growing and we’re eager to host more events, engage with the campus community and continue making a positive impact through our philanthropy and brotherhood. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Pi Kappa Phi at Texas State!

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PI KAPP ALUMNI REUNION Join brothers from around the nation for an unforgettable gathering at the Pi Kapp Alumni Reunion 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana! Join us July 24-26, 2025, to reconnect with old friends, make new ones and relive your cherished fraternity memories in the heart of the Big Easy. This is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our brotherhood, share stories of past glory and create new memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on the camaraderie, laughter and good times. Mark your calendars and plan to be there; it’s an event you won’t want to miss! See you in NOLA! Visit pikapp.org for registration and event updates.

ALUMNI UPDATES Have you gotten a new job or moved to a new city? Did you get married or have kids?

If you have any life updates you’d like to share with your brothers, please let us know by sending your update to admin@etarhoalumni.com so we can feature your updates in future newsletters.

SUPPORT THE ETA RHO ENDOWMENT The Eta Rho Alumni Chapter embarked on an ambitious and achievable campaign to start an endowed scholarship in the name of the Eta Rho Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at Texas State. As you read, our re-chartering is coming up, and it is vitally important that we, the men of Eta Rho, continue to show our support for Texas State and these young men.

We had the opportunity to meet with President Damphousse recently, and he expressed support for the return of the chapter and Greek Life, as well as our efforts to endow a scholarship.

The need for student scholarships has never been greater. This endowment will give the future men of the Eta Rho Chapter a distinct advantage over other chapters at Texas State, especially during recruitment. I hope that each of you will consider supporting this endowment that directly impacts our chapter.

For more information on how to make a one-time gift or set up a reoccurring gift to the Eta Rho Endowment, please contact Andrae Turner at andrae.turner@gmail.com.

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SPRING 2025

ATTN: ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT 3701 ARCO CORPORATE DRIVE SUITE 500 CHARLOTTE, NC 28273

THE ETA RHO CHAPTER OF PI KAPPA PHI IS RE-CHARTERING! Alumni are invited to join the new brothers of Pi Kappa Phi in celebrating the re-chartering of the Eta Rho Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at Texas State University. The weekend will include the chapter capstone presentation, the Ritual of Initiation and the Re-chartering Banquet. Friday through Saturday morning, the student members will complete the final steps in their rechartering journey. Alumni will join them Saturday evening at the Banquet to celebrate their hard work and achievement!

RE-CHARTERING BANQUET SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025 EVENING (EXACT TIME TBA)

Be sure to watch your email for more information.

We look forward to seeing you in the Hill Country for this special occasion!

FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM

EVENTS

GET INVOLVED

UPDATE INFORMATION | ALUMNI REUNION

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