Kappa Chapter Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Fall 2020 Brothers,
“O lost, and by the wind grieved, ghost, come back again.”
I hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and well. The understatement of the year is that we find ourselves in trying times, and I feel that Dean Smith’s famous moniker for the spirit of our beloved university has never been more applicable... The Carolina Way. The current brotherhood is the embodiment of this attitude and have shown themselves to be true leaders when leadership was required. Chris Reynolds, current Archon, worked tirelessly with his Executive Committee and the University to ensure that the lights stayed on at 216 and developed a plan focused on safety first, but also compassion for anyone who may fall ill. Together with Kappa Council and the National Office, they are doing everything within their power to remain compliant with all University guidelines and protocols. When dorms were closed down a few weeks ago they even took in some displaced Associates so they could continue to enjoy their time in Chapel Hill. My hat goes off to this impressive group of determined young men. I’d also like to thank two members of Kappa Council for their outstanding work this year, but also for many years of dedicated service. Marty Lindsey has been Chapter Advisor for the past 10 years and the physical property and House at large have never been in better condition. Steve Shaw has done amazing work keeping us afloat with his experienced financing skills and has consistently mentored the Treasurer in best practices for efficiently running Kappa Chapter. Thank you both for lending your time, talent and treasure to assist us in weathering this storm...that’s The Carolina Way.
Thomas Wolfe wrote these words in his 1929 book “Look Homeward Angel” and this quote is inscribed on the Thomas Wolfe memorial on campus. The words are a call to his brother – who was taken by the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Thomas Wolfe was a junior at Carolina when the pandemic struck. This fall is a different one than any of us have experienced. We are in a scary and unpredictable time but I have been inspired by the brothers of our fraternity. The house is working diligently to continue their studies and our brotherhood amidst this pandemic. The fall has always held such a mystique and a mystery to me in Chapel Hill. Ten years ago this fall, we were rebuilding the fraternity and this year we celebrate the 10year anniversary of our Re-Founding. Those brothers taught me so much about building, debating, creating, being genuine, and moving forward as a team. The power of an engaged and thoughtful brotherhood of strong leaders can conquer any challenge, and create truly… magic. I know this newsletter may find many of you steady and some of you on your heels. Please understand, our chapter is active and thriving. The chapter and Kappa Council are putting one foot in front of the other and executing a plan to move us forward. We have all faced We can now relate to Thomas Wolfe’s words of pain, of longing, and his experience of a pandemic. But I want you to also remember Thomas Wolfe’s words that we have always been able to relate to, on Chapel Hill
Mick Charles President, Kappa Council mick_charles@yahoo.com
“It was as close to magic as I’ve ever been.” John Short Director, Alumni Relations jfshort28@gmail.com
I would say the chapter is doing quite well, considering the circumstances of COVID. We have strong leadership, thanks in large part to our Archon Chris Reynolds. Financially, the chapter is doing well. Kappa Council is doing well. Current loan balance is $325,000. BB&T waived our principal payments for 3 months since guys had to leave town in March of this year, and we did not charge them rent for that period of time. Also, now would be a great time to join Kappa Council! Membership is still $100 for a lifetime membership. Contributions to help pay down the mortgage are certainly welcome. Please feel free to reach out to me at steve.shaw001@gmail.com. Steve Shaw Treasurer, Kappa Council steve.shaw001@gmail.com
Kappa Chapter currently has 65 active members, some of whom are here in Chapel Hill while others are at their respective homes taking classes. While the beginning of this new school year has been particularly challenging due to the nature of Covid-19, I have been proud of the efforts of both the Executive Council and brotherhood to promote and adhere to safe and innovative ways to enjoy being a member of Pi Kappa Phi. From creative virtual recruitment events such as poker and Zoom NBA watch parties, to socially-distanced brotherhood golf outings and meals, I have enjoyed seeing the continued perseverance of our brothers during these unprecedented times and seeing their commitment to the values of Pi Kappa Phi as well as our campus community. A special “Thank You” to Harrison Locklear, James Gatton, and Nick Bonfiglio who all worked tirelessly over the summer to continue updating, I would also like to highlight the incredible work of our professional food and cleaning services, who continue to ensure the chapter house is clean, sanitized, and complies with local and state guidelines. Thank you for your hard work! I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of our chapter this year despite the extraordinary circumstances we are in. Chris Reynolds Archon chrisreynolds030@gmail.com Guys, We were able to make a few improvements to the house this summer. The dining room was upfitted with LVT paneling that should be more resistant to wear and tear. TVs were added to the dining-bar area to create a gathering space for games and meals. Late last spring the serving area was updated to granite and hopefully the doors were replaced on the cabinet. The TV installers are aware that the TV room equipment is ready to be upgraded as well. COVID-19 has created an immediate need to make the chapter house more livable . We should all be thinking about how to add value to the experience. Lastly I will encourage the brotherhood to respect the Charleston room as a place to engage in important business and host alumni (and parents) at all times. Although I am not acting as the “alumni house manager” my involvement in KC and the board will not change. Thanks for allowing me to serve during the past 10 years. Marty Lindsey Housing Advisor marty.lindsey@gmail.com
JOIN US! 2020 is the 10th Anniversary of Kappa Chapter at the New 216! We had planned to honor the re-founding and move this fall but we will look to a future date for that celebration. Reach out to Steve Shaw to join Kappa Council.
GO HEELS!!!