AN INDELIBLE MARK
Legacy is about connecting with something larger. It prompts us to ask, “How do we want to be remembered?” What mark do we want to leave on our family, our community, our Fraternity and the world at large? These questions call on us to live with intention, to be mindful of our actions and to consider the consequences of our choices. The truth is we all leave a legacy, whether we actively shape it or not. Every interaction, every decision and every moment of kindness or indifference contributes to the narrative of our lives. This realization is both humbling and empowering. It reminds us that we have agency over our impact on others and the world, no matter how large or small. The stories you read in this issue embody this very notion – we all make an impact. WHAT IS A LEGACY? The word legacy is a word that carries immense weight, encapsulating the essence of a life lived and the indelible mark one leaves on the world. As I think about the meaning of this word and the legacy of Pi Kappa Phi, I am reminded that a legacy is not merely a collection of achievements. It is a reflection of the values we uphold, the impact we make and the lives we touch. I am humbled every day to witness the passion of our members who exemplify our values, innovate, embrace the fraternity experience and strive for excellence. This issue of the Star & Lamp examines the legacy of our brotherhood through the unique lens of several Pi Kappa Phi members. From award winners whose achievements we celebrate to the men living our values, the story of Pi Kappa Phi is told through their distinctive and indelible mark – their legacy. You’ll meet Alex Rountree, Gamma Psi (Augusta), the man behind his campus mascot, who left a legacy of pride and joy with every costumed appearance he made. You’ll read the story of cancer survivor Kyle Roth, Delta Eta (Morehead State), and his Journey of Hope teammates, who have built a legacy defined by the healing power of having brothers at your side in good times and challenging times. And you’ll find inspiration in the Carpenter family, a family who defines love, strength and connection through the legacy of our philanthropic mission.
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STAR&LAMP
FALL 2023
“Legacy is not merely a collection of achievements. It is a reflection of the values we uphold, the impact we make and the lives we touch.” Perhaps the most striking aspect of legacy is its enduring nature. While our physical presence may fade, the essence of who we are lives on. It lives on in the stories shared by loved ones, in the institutions we build and in the positive changes we bring about. Knowing that our legacy endures brings a profound sense of purpose to our lives. It reminds us that each day is an opportunity to contribute to a greater story, to leave behind a world – and a Pi Kappa Phi - that is better than the one we entered. Our legacy is a mosaic of strength, vision and the unyielding belief in our collective potential. In Pi Kappa Phi,
Jake Henderson Chief Executive Officer
