Star & Lamp | Fall 2020

OF PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY

No flower that grows is like the rose...

Connie Owen

FALL2020

October 4, 1930 – September 23, 2020

Photo by Amanda Pankhurst from Western Illinois University.

CEO CORNER

Mark E. Timmes

IN LOVING MEMORY

ANY MEMBER OF Pi Kappa Phi who has learned the values espoused in our Ritual will know that the common loyalty of its members truly transcends any personal selfishness. Not only is it the first of our public values listed in the Student Creed, it is the essence of how we will continue to adapt and overcome the challenges we face as a brotherhood.

Someone who would have never been through our ritual, yet understood the value of common loyalty better than most who have taken our oath, was Connie Owen.

As the wife to Executive Director Emeritus Durward W. Owen, Connie had served as the matron of our fraternity for more than half a century. To all the brothers who have known her, she was an immaculate representation of grace, kindness and compassion.

With her passing in September, the fraternity mourns the loss of its most influential non-member. In 1959, when Connie and her family moved to Sumter, South Carolina, so that Durward could lead Pi Kappa Phi, she was told it would only be for two years.

Two years became thirty-five, and in the years following Durward’s retirement, thirty-five became a lifetime of loyalty and unwavering support to the fraternity’s mission. As the namesake of the Connie Owen Order of the Rose Award, her legacy lives on in the women who demonstrate her commitment to Pi Kappa Phi. This issue of The Star & Lamp is dedicated to the memory of Connie Owen, and to the lessons that I believe we can learn from her legacy.

In this issue, you will hear from the brothers and friends of the fraternity

who had the privilege to know Connie personally. The outpouring of support in her memory since her passing shows just how strong her impact was not only in the lives of those close to her, but also to the greater fraternity as a whole.

You’ll also hear more from each of Pi Kappa Phi’s four entities regarding how the greater fraternity has continued to find success while adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the fraternity is hopeful that a return to in-person activity comes sooner than later, I am confident that our membership, our volunteers, and our headquarters staff members will continue to demonstrate resilience, and will settle for nothing less than progress even when presented with challenges.

Finally, I want to thank everyone who has continued to support Pi Kappa Phi with their time, talent and treasure this year. More so, I want to thank the members who have gone the extra mile to embrace their role as a leader, whether in supporting their chapters or their local communities, and who have put service before self to assist those who have been impacted by COVID-19.

As always, I hope you enjoy this issue of the Star & Lamp!

Yours in the brotherhood of Pi Kappa Phi,

MARK E. TIMMES

Chief Executive Officer mtimmes@pikapp.org

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark E. Timmes CEO SUBMISSIONS: Materials for publication should be sent directly to the creative director at the address or email address to the far right. Letters to the editor will be printed at the discretion of the STAR & LAMP team.

With the print STAR & LAMP and the online Pi Kapp News, we accept materials on an ongoing basis at pikapp.org/submitnews.

PARENTS & FAMILY: The STAR & LAMP is being sent to your address while your son is in college. Please feel free to read through the magazine as we hope it is a publication you will enjoy too.

PUBLISHER: STAR & LAMP (USPS 519-000) is issued two times a year by Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity at 2015 Ayrsley Town Blvd. Ste 200, Charlotte, NC 28273 and additional mailing offices.

If your son is no longer in college or is no longer living at home, please send his new contact information to the address or email address below.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: STAR & LAMP 2015 Ayrsley Town Blvd. Ste 200 Charlotte, NC 28273

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EMAIL ADDRESS:

letusknow@pikapp.org

ONLINE NEWS:

pikapp.org/news

pikapp.org/submitnews

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Victor Tran Assistant Executive Director of Communication MANAGING EDITOR Nicholas Ebelhack Director of Communication DIGITAL MEDIA Laura Thompson Assistant Communication Director

CONTRIBUTORS

Eric Baze Parker Begale Brandon Belote Connor Burke Chris Conner Brent A. Grunig Ellie Holsea Chris Huffman Brooke Kingsley Isbell Basil Lyberg Andrew Matznick Mary-Michael McClure Denise Nelson Jay Stuckel Becky Smith Cavin Villarreal Rachel Westra

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OUR CONTINUED GROWTH

CHARTERINGS

Alpha (College of Charleston) Re-chartered November 7, 2020

Chi (Stetson)

Re-chartered November 14, 2020

Kappa Chi (Northeastern) Chartered November 21, 2020

EXPANSIONS S P R I N G

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2 0 2 1

AS A RESULT of limitations on in-person gatherings, how our undergraduate members approached recruitment in 2020 looked very different than years before. Finding potential new members can be challenging enough in-person; however, creating lasting connections in a virtual environment presents new opportunities for Vice Archons to demonstrate resilient leadership.

Pi Kappa Phi’s chapters adapted to restrictions and persevered in the 2020 fall semester.

Headquarters staff conducted webinars, oneon-one phone calls and panel discussions throughout the summer and the beginning of the fall semester to provide opportunities for recruitment leaders to ask questions and share what they have found successful.

As a result of nationwide collaboration and preparation, Pi Kappa Phi welcomed over 1,700 new associate members to the fraternity this year, and is continuing to grow at its reexpansion projects at Gamma Tau (North Texas) and Epsilon Omega (Texas Tech).

“Knowing the recruitment landscape would be forever changed by the evolving challenges our country has faced since March 2020, we decided to take an approach that would meet our students where they are,” Director of Expansion and Growth Parker Begale said. “Through the virtual conversations and workshops led by Leadership Consultants, in addition to the online resources we created in house, we were able to find success that has solidified Pi Kappa Phi nationally as a recruitment powerhouse.”

With the experience of the previous few months, Pi Kappa Phi feels prepared to enter the spring 2021 semester with the same tenacious approach to recruitment, both at chartered chapters and at upcoming expansions at Creighton University and Wake Forest University.

“We have won the fall 2020 semester, but our work is far from over. As we head into 2021, we are beginning conversations around spring recruitment and expansions earlier than ever before as new Vice Archons are elected in preparation for Pi Kapp College for Chapter Officers,” Begale said. “Recruitment will continue to change, but one thing never will: young men across the country desire brotherhood and belonging, and Pi Kappa Phi will always be there to say 'Welcome Brother!'”

For more information about expansion or starting a new chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, contact the New Chapter Development team at expansion@pikapp.org.

I cannot think of a better role model to be exposed to early in my career. My appreciation of Connie has only grown over the years. I can remember my time around Connie like it was yesterday. – Barry Howell, Gamma Upsilon (Oklahoma State)

pikapp.org/news

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FALL2020 || VOL. CVIII, NO. 2

FEATURES

4

The behind the scenes of the Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience.

8

A new venture for The Ability Experience in the virtual age.

14 26

VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE

GAMING FOR INCLUSION

THE ROSE OF PI KAPPA PHI

In honor of Connie Owen and her legacy with Pi Kappa Phi.

COVID HEROES

Recognizing members who have gone above and beyond as outstanding community members.

COLUMNS 1 || CEO Corner 2 || Charterings and Expansions 7 || For our Parents 10 || Health & Safety 12 || House & Home 20 || Pi Kappa Phi Foundation 22 || Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Update 25 || Virtual Racing 28 || Chapter Eternal 31 || Mr. Pi Kappa Phi and Hall of Fame 32 || Fraternity Supports the FSPAC 33 || Phinal Thought

ON THE COVER:

Illustrated by Victor Tran, the yellow rose was Connie Owen's favorite flower, laying amongst the symbols of our fraternity. In this issue, there are footnotes in honor of our Rose.

Copyright © 2020 Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Pi Kappa Phi, the Coat of Arms, Star Shield and additional logos are trademarks of Pi Kappa Phi, all rights reserved.

Brother Greg Pullon from the Zeta Rho (Cal State - Fullerton) chapter is showing off our letters on his campus.

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Of all her many attributes her kindness and genuine caring for others always stood out – Mark E. Timmes, Chief Executive Officer, and Lorrie Miller

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BY, N ICHOLA S E B E LHACK

July

16,

0

202

DATE 7.16.2020 RUNTIME 1:58:50

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IN MID-MARCH, when Pi Kappa Phi’s Headquarters Staff shifted the fraternity’s operations from the Kelly A. Bergstrom Leadership Center to their home offices, questions immediately arose regarding how Pi Kappa Phi would continue its slate of leadership development and brotherhood opportunities.

Most importantly, the fraternity was faced with the difficult task of hosting Supreme Chapter, after years of planning, in a virtual capacity with just four months to transform a four-day in-person event to a two-hour live broadcast. On May 14, 2020, Pi Kappa Phi officially announced that the 57th Supreme Chapter in Baltimore, Maryland, would be postponed due to COVID-19.

Without gathering in person, the challenge became not just how to accomplish the necessary business of the Supreme Chapter, but to create an experience that celebrated Pi Kappa Phi’s brotherhood and outlined the fraternity’s commitment to

creating exceptional leaders through uncommon opportunities.

The creation of the Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience over the next two months required careful planning and coordination to accomplish. Not only did Headquarters Staff have to condense Supreme Chapter down to the essentials to inform members about the state of the fraternity, but it also required connecting Pi Kappa Phi’s leadership across nine states to present how the fraternity’s operations have adapted in 2020.

The Supreme Chapter’s staple events would remain, including a state of the fraternity address, the presentation of the Mr. Pi Kappa Phi and Hall of Fame awards, and the incoming National President’s address from William Sigmon, in addition to updates from The Ability Experience Chairman Chad Perce, Pi Kappa Phi Properties Chairman Tony Noce and Pi Kappa Phi Foundation Chairman Ernest Johnson.

Connie was truly a kindness given to us all and we shall see our Rose of Pi Kappa Phi again. It is with confidence that we offer our love and support. – Greg, Theta Theta (Iowa), Christine, Natalie & Nellie Buehner

pikapp.org/news

even though the fraternity wasn’t meeting in person, the 1 Just as important to commitment of members to attend consider was the legal aspect of electing Pi Kappa “Despite our physical distance from each other, I’m Phi’s incoming National impressed at how many brothers were able to come together Viewers Council slate. Normally, here virtually — some of whom would not have been able to 2 the Supreme Chapter, attend our originally scheduled in-person meeting,” Galvin said. consisting of undergraduate chapter representation and Following his opening remarks, Galvin presented the dedicated alumni, vote in person for the National Council. state of the fraternity, specifically commenting on the fraternity’s future regarding COVID-19.

The fraternity needed to seek a digital solution.

“Our Fraternity has rebounded from war, pandemics, “Since the pandemic dramatically changed our best-laid plans to hold a Supreme Chapter meeting, including our economic downfalls, and challenges in higher education before,” Galvin said. “Our leadership is strong at all levels 3 voting process, our staff and National Council needed to pivot of the organization. Our undergraduates and young alumni quickly and vet available tools and technology to execute an electronic voting mechanism,” Chief Administrative Officer are leading with passion and vision. Eventually we will rebound from the effects of COVID – individually, as Brandon Belote said. Mark and Jeremy consulted a South Carolina attorney specializing in non-profit associations; chapters, as a fraternity.”

Additionally, Galvin spoke on the fraternity’s Diversity, that is where we learned about the ability to amend the Equity and Inclusion commitment, and announced election procedure to allow for electronic voting, through the formation of a new standing 4 emergency provisions outlined in committee. the South Carolina Non-Profit Act. “Pi Kappa Phi will continue to do We were able to administer a ballot “Although we will no longer more to advocate, support and provide to each “duly registered” member and be gathering in-person, opportunity for our members of color offer a generous time-table for ballot we must continue to work through improved and expanded submission. The whole thing actually diligently for the future of diversity, equity & inclusion efforts 5 came together quite nicely.”

Pi Kappa Phi,” across the organization,” Galvin said.

During the month of June, – Jeremy Galvin, National President (2) These words were echoed by 11,355 votes were cast online for Timmes, who when delivering his path the National Council. Additionally, forward address spoke to holding the 6 nearly 800 members and friends of values of the fraternity close as Pi Kappa Phi finds the fraternity registered for the Supreme Chapter new solutions to modern problems.

Virtual Experience, allowing more people than ever “We should look to what remains steadfast; we before to attend a Supreme Chapter, which will be should look to our Ritual and Student Creed,” Timmes credited towards Nu Phi status upon attendance at the said. “Pi Kappa Phi will assist, support, and defend our 7 2021 Summer Alumni Reunion in St. Louis, Missouri.

"Despite COVID-19 not allowing us to gather in Baltimore, brothers. We will bear our share of the financial burden of brothers throughout the country were able to come together the chapter and national organization. We will shoulder our and experience the Supreme Chapter virtually,” said Mary- full responsibilities as citizens.”

Michael McClure, Coordinator of Alumni Engagement. We (3) As the Supreme Chapter Virtual saw the most alumni and guests at a Supreme Chapter ever Experience continued, members heard “Leaders act with intention and and we hope everyone can join us in Tampa in 2022" updates from each of the fraternity’s purpose,” Sigmon said “Just saying entities, saw the presentation of the what needs to be said isn’t enough.

With ballots cast and a new virtual format decided fraternity’s highest honors and (4) We must do what needs to be done AND upon, Pi Kappa Phi’s communication team coordinated welcomed the new National Council. lead the way Pi Kapps know how to lead the live broadcast, working with members of the National Council and board chairmen from each of Pi Kappa Phi’s After the fraternity’s new officers – with our values and our actions.” took their oath, new (5) National four entities for remote filming, including filming on location at Iowa State University to broadcast President President William Sigmon addressed the fraternity himself.

Galvin’s address.

“Organizing a film is no easy task, let alone across the (6) The Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience, ending country, with multiple people in the midst of a global with an adjourning prayer from incoming National Chaplain pandemic,” said Patrick Carlson, Pi Kappa Phi’s former Andrae Turner, closed that afternoon. As brothers continued assistant communication director. “Thankfully, with the to engage with one another in virtual events following the help of technology and some amazingly helpful alumni events, the fraternity announced with excitement the brothers, we were able to successfully create a full length, return of the in-person (7) Supreme Chapter in Tampa, two hour stream, featuring graphics and content provided Florida in 2022, where members will engage in all of the by our student brothers along the way.” traditions of the Supreme Chapter to its fullest extent.

For the first time in four months, while following proper Until then, the Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience social distancing and mask-usage recommendations, select will go down in history as a testament to the fraternity’s staff returned to headquarters to operate the broadcast adaptability and commitment to its membership, and will and bring the Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience to life. be remembered not just for the circumstances in which (1) The Supreme Chapter Virtual Experience opened it was created, but for the Pi Kappa Phi’s perseverance in with remarks from Jeremy Galvin, acknowledging that uncertain times. 

800+

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We send our love and support. We also know that Connie will continue to watch over us and guide us. – The Alpha Rho Alumni Chapter (West Virginia)

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PI KAPP AND ABILIT Y EXPERIENCE NEWS

ALPHA IOTA (Auburn) alumnus Bret Holmes, won the 2020 Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) Menards Series Championship racing for his family team, Bret Holmes Racing. Holmes, who also successfully defended his 2019 Bill France Four Crown Award in the same series, has been racing in the ARCA Menards Series for 4 years, which is one of NASCAR’s lower divisions series. His race car, which is sponsored by Golden Eagle Syrup, was designed by another Alpha Iota brother, Walt Bowling. 

THE ABILITY EXPERIENCE was recently featured in Grammy-award winning artist Lady Gaga’s book, “Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community.” The book, a collection of stories curated with the assistance of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, highlights the Journey of Hope and Hanna Atkinson amongst other “inspirational, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful moments that led to personal and communal transformation.” 

DELTA BETA (North Georgia) alumnus Donnie Kessler and his wife Hannah recently opened Alert Coffee, a craft coffee roastery and coffee shop in the Tampa, Florida area. Donnie’s dream of opening a coffee shop came true in September of this year, committing to provide thoughtfully sourced specialty coffee from around the world, roasted to bring out the best in each bean. 

SHARE THE SUCCESS LET US KNOW WHAT YOU ARE UP TO @

PIKAPP.ORG/SUBMITNEWS ABILIT Y EXPERIENCE

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We have both often said Durward and Connie were the perfect couple and we should take note by learning some of life’s lessons from each of you.

Please know we send our heartfelt thoughts filled with more love and concern than we could ever pay. – Vicki and Cliff Goodwin

ENGAGING PARENTS

TOGETHER AS PI KAPPA PHI continues to engage with undergraduate and alumni members in new capacities to adapt to COVID-19, the fraternity is also making strides to engage parents of members in new and meaningful ways.

Beginning in June, members of Pi Kappa Phi’s headquarters staff worked together to inform and communicate with parents across the country representing a range of perspectives. After reaching out to a random selection of ten percent of parents, the fraternity headquarters staff assessed responses from a voluntary survey and coordinated nine virtual focus group discussions throughout the month of July.

The qualitative information that headquarters staff received from focus group participants provided insight as to how Pi Kappa Phi can better work to develop a parent engagement strategy this fall. As a result, the fraternity is working towards creating communication pieces and educational resources, including: • Parent-specific communication pieces in This Month in Pi Kappa Phi, Pi Kappa Phi’s monthly e-newsletter to undergraduate members, parents, chapter advisors, and fraternity/sorority life professionals.

• A parent welcome webinar introducing parents of associate members to Pi Kappa Phi’s values and policies, headquarters staff contacts, financial costs and best practices, associate member education and virtual opportunities and resources for students.

• The development of a parent-specific resource page on pikapp.org, containing consistently updated information and resources.

• Communication timelines for chapter historians and housing corporation volunteers to plan out engagement with members’ parents with the local chapter.

Pi Kappa Phi will continue to communicate with parents through periodic updates in This Month in Pi Kappa Phi, on Pi Kappa Phi’s parent resource webpage and through targeted news pieces to further develop this strategy moving forward.

The fraternity expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation to all of the parents who assisted in the development of its parent engagement strategy, and will continue to work alongside them to assess and adjust our efforts to provide a positive experience for both undergraduate members and their parents. 

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We mourn but cherish Connie’s life with us and her eternity with the Savior.

– Frank Wrenn III, Mu (Duke)

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Gone now, but only in real time, she will remain close by as we call to mind and share her in the stories of our time together. Whenever we speak her name we’ll feel her presence. – Jim Greer, Former Zeta Beta Tau Executive Director

pikapp.org/news

FOR MANY, video games have been the perfect solution to keep themselves entertained this year as they do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19 by staying home. The disability community is no different, as opportunities for inclusive gaming continue to grow.

At Pi Kapp College for Chapter Officers in January, The Ability Experience shared with undergraduate members new technology Microsoft has developed that allows people with disabilities flexibility in how they play video games.

Whereas traditional controllers have been tweaked and adjusted for decades to best fit human hands, Microsoft’s adaptable controller allows for near limitless customization for anyone to play and compete on equal ground.

“The world of gaming has drastically become more inclusive with Microsoft’s adaptive gaming controller and accessories. The customization with the different types of buttons, joysticks, and pedals has created endless customization for people with disabilities to play video games.”

Microsoft’s new technological advances in adaptive gaming has opened new doors for The Ability Experience to engage the men of Pi Kappa Phi with the disability community and creating meaningful relationships over an entertainment medium that allows anyone, anywhere to play.

Gaming for Inclusion, one of The Ability Experience’s newest programs, has succeeded in bringing people together amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and is continuing to grow with the help of an eight member student-led committee. During 2020,

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376 students have participated in a Gaming for Inclusion event, competing in esports with brothers from across the country and raising funds to further develop the program.

This past year, Gaming for Inclusion has hosted Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone and Rocket League tournaments and raised more than $3,500. Additionally, the program is continuing to grow with the support of a grant from the Rock Family of Companies Community Challenge, which will allow The Ability Experience to purchase adaptive gaming equipment for its partner organizations across the country.

“As Gaming for Inclusion continues to grow, the money that is raised will go back to help fight the social isolation people with disabilities are experiencing by opening up the world of gaming to them. The fundraising for the program goes back to equipping our partner organizations with grants and gaming technology to connect them with our chapters and provide them a different way to connect with our students.”

Members who are interested in participating in the program can visit The Ability Experience’s Gaming for Inclusion web page and join their discord to learn more about upcoming events and opportunities to create inclusive gaming experiences at their campuses.

“The Ability Experience is very fortunate for all of the support we have received for Gaming for Inclusion.

We have some fun new initiatives and tournaments coming soon in 2021 that we cannot wait to share with you. Get ready and keep gaming.” 

Connie was a beautiful soul, inside and out. We share in the grace of a great woman, mother, wife and role model. – Leah & Bill Gheason, Beta Epsilon (Missouri)

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HEALTH & SAFET Y

COVID-19 THE NORMAL OPERATIONS of Pi Kappa Phi’s 170 student chapters look vastly different from what they did a year ago. Through the resilient leadership of our undergraduate leaders, we have seen the implementation of creative and health-conscious solutions to recruitment, chapter administration and fraternal bonding, demonstrating the persistence of our membership.

However, since COVID-19 dramatically impacted how our country operates, and how our members interact with one another, some still choose to ignore local and national recommendations regarding social distancing and mask usage. It is imperative that we all do our share to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by adhering to Center for Disease Control’s health and safety best practices.

Wear a mask that fully covers your mouth and nose whenever you are in public places. When selecting a mask, look for one with multiple layer of washable cloth that comfortably and snugly fits your face. Avoid fabrics that make it difficult to breathe, have exhalation valves or ones which are intended for medical professionals such as N95 or surgical masks.

Additionally, avoid using gaiters & face shields as a substitute for a cloth face mask, as the CDC has warned that the effectiveness of these face coverings are currently unknown. If you wear glasses, consider a face mask with a piece of wire that forms to the shape of your face and prevents fogging.

Remember, the best way to prevent

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the spread of COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to the virus in the first place.

COVID-19 is highly contagious and can be spread by people who do not appear to be symptomatic. By practicing social distancing and remaining six feet apart from other persons in public places, you greatly reduce the possibility of the virus spreading from one person to another.

Other best practices include washing your hands often after being in public and shared places, using hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and avoiding touching your mouth, nose and eyes with unwashed hands.

If you have been exposed, or if you suspect that you have symptoms of COVID-19, stay home, avoid public places and get tested.

Know the symptoms of COVID-19, which include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting and/ or diarrhea, and seek medical attention for severe symptoms including trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, an inability to wake or stay awake and bluish lips or face.

Most importantly, remember Pi Kappa Phi’s principle of responsible citizenship, and understand that your actions can potentially affect dozens of others who may be vulnerable to severe health complications as a result of COVID-19. It takes all of us to lead by example and contribute to the betterment of our communities. 

WHEN IN PUBLIC,

WASH YOUR HANDS

STAY AT LEAST

WEAR A CLOTH FACE

OFTEN WITH SOAP AND

6 FEET (ABOUT 2 ARMS'

YOU ARE SICK

COVERING OVER YOUR

WATER FOR AT LEAST 20

LENGTH) FROM

EXCEPT TO GET

NOSE AND MOUTH.

SECONDS.

OTHER PEOPLE.

MEDICAL CARE.

STAY HOME WHEN

Her memory will live on in every person she connected with throughout her life. She continues to make the world a better place because of this. I will continue to keep her memory alive. – Alan Duesterhaus, Zeta Epsilon (George Mason)

2020 SUMMER STUDENT AWARDS The following undergraduate members of Pi Kappa Phi have been recognized for their extraordinary commitment to the fraternity and for their sustained involvement in their campus community. They have each been

named recipients of one of the highest awards an individual undergraduate member can receive: The Dr. Phillip M. Summers Student of the Year Award, the Howard H. Baker Leadership Award and the Interfraternal Leader of the Year. 

THE HOWARD H. BAKER LEADERSHIP AWARD

DR. PHILLIP M. SUMMERS STUDENT OF THE YEAR

INTERFRATERNAL LEADER OF THE YEAR

This award is named in honor of Brother Howard Baker, Alpha Sigma (Tennessee), who served as U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1967–85 and Senate Majority Leader from 1981–85. This award recognizes the student member of Pi Kappa Phi with the most outstanding leadership and involvement in campus and community organizations independent of his chapter.

Named in honor of Brother Phillip Summers, Alpha Psi (Indiana), who served as National President from 1992–94 and was named Mr. Pi Kappa Phi in 2003, this award recognizes the overall most outstanding student member of Pi Kappa Phi. The winner is someone who best exemplifies the ideals of Pi Kappa Phi in his chapter, on his campus and in his community.

This award honors the undergraduate member who demonstrates the most outstanding leadership as an Interfraternity Council member on their campus.

Luke Turner

Patrick Lucitt Patrick is a Pi Kapp College for Emerging Leaders graduate, a past Archon and Secretary, a two–term member of the Council of Archons, and a two–time Pi Alpha. He also went on to serve in leadership roles as the Project Manager for Build America, as an intern for Emerging Leaders, and most recently served as the student representative to our Nominating Committee. In addition to his service to Pi Kappa Phi and The Ability Experience, he also served his campus as the IFC President. 

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ALPHA EPSILON (FLORIDA)

As a student leader, Stephen served his chapter as both Secretary and Archon and now serves as the IFC President at the University of Florida. As IFC President, he oversees a council of 24 chapters and over 2,600 fraternity men.

During his time as IFC President, he created Thrive IFC, the council’s first initiative centered around wellness and brotherhood support for the community, and has also started to refocus the council’s efforts towards Sexual Assault Prevention Education. 

STEPHEN GREEP

As student body president, Luke wrote and established legislation for mental health, student safety, diversity & inclusion, and campus involvement. In addition to serving as Philanthropy Chairman for his chapter, he was involved in two different professional fraternities outside of Pi Kappa Phi, was inducted in the Ad Astra Society in 2019, and he had an internship in Washington DC working in the office of Congressman Theodore E. Deutch. 

DELTA DELTA (TRUMAN STATE)

PATRICK LUCITT

LUKE TURNER

KAPPA DELTA (FLORIDA ATLANTIC)

Stephen Greep

Connie was simply one of the kindest individuals one could meet. We both feel so fortunate just to have known her. – Mary Lisa and Walter Wahlfeldt, Upsilon (Illinois)

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Connie’s sense of humor always made it fun when we were together…Durward and Connie made me feel so welcomed. It really put me at ease. – Michael Trull, Alpha Mu (Penn State)

pikapp.org/news

But even with taking Pi Kappa Phi Properties has been closely working with the Delta Omega alumni, and necessary precautions, the according to Project Manager Jay Stuckel, expectation is solidly in has benefitted from a close relationship place that the project will between the national headquarters and be completed on time.

“We do not expect any the Delta Omega Housing Corporation "There's a committee of six alumni that delays,” Stuckel said. “We commited to a weekly meeting where we have a firm commitment worked on the design of the house, and date to have the house now we are on biweekly meetings with done August 1, 2021 and the construction committee to review the our sights are focussed on process all the way through to completion,” that date.”

Delta Omega Archon Stuckel said. “The alumni support has been outstanding, from the start of the project Stephen Schirmer said that they have been willing to put the time and the chapter is appreciative effort into the project to make it successful.” of the relationship they The alumni have also been involved in have with their alumni and financing the new project, contributing Pi Kappa Phi Properties assets from the sale of the old Delta and sees the connection Omega house to the construction of the between the construction of this house and the new project.

Notably, the project is split into two fraternity’s values. buildings connected to one another, “The opportunity to featuring a 10,815 sq ft residential space contribute to the design with 20 single bedrooms, each with their of the new housing is own private bathroom, and a 3,200 sq foot incredible,” Schirmer said. lodge with men's and women's bathrooms, “It makes me think of the a commercial kitchen, storage and a Bridge Builder poem in conference/ meeting room. the White Diamond. I feel “This is the first build that has twenty like I am helping build the bedrooms each with their own attached groundwork for a new era in bathroom,” Stuckel said regarding the Delta Omega's history. The uniqueness of the project. “Most fraternity connections I am making houses have some form of shared with our alumni and the Pi bathroom but due to the demand and the Kapp's working for Properties competitive environment of apartments are eye opening. Seeing how in the location, they are very used to and much time, money and effort accustomed to single rooms with their these men are willing to put into own bathrooms.” our chapter has made me “IT IS NOT COMMON “The other unique want to work as hard as I IN THE FRATERNITY king. design feature is that can as Archon.” dbrea WORLD TO HAVE THAT groun e h t at we have a designated Stuckel, who attended apter SPECIFIC ROOM, BUT M) ch & chapter room for the groundbreaking, said A s a THE ALUMNI WERE (Tex mega meetings that will that the undergraduate VERY SUPPORTIVE OF lta O e D e Th be for brothers only,” ESTABLISHING A ROOM chapter has been involved in Stuckel continued. the process and showed their FOR BROTHERS ONLY.” With a one-year interest during the event. timeline to complete the project, Pi Kappa “The undergraduate chapter turned Phi Properties is conscious of the potential out for the event in great force and were issues that COVID-19 could present, and enthusiastic,” Stuckel said. “We toured the “Now that construction has executed, the has been working diligently to accomplish location while we were there and asked energy continues to build. The chapter is the project in time for move-in next year. really good questions about the project excited for all of the future opportunities "Working with all of our contractors and and what operations are like with a new that the house gives us,” Schirmer said. subcontractors on the project, all of our house and a new lodge.”

“We will have the newest and greatest meetings are virtual and over the phone The addition of the new Delta Omega fraternity housing on campus and it gives versus face to face,” Stuckel said. “It has chapter house brings the total number us the opportunity to recruit more men, changed how much interaction with the of Pi Kappa Phi Properties to 28 and is a change the culture of our chapter, build builder we require because it does take testament to the hard work of the team stronger connections with our alumni, and more time.” countless others. The future is bright!”  during unprecedented times. update us on your life: pikapp.org/submitnews

Gone now, but only in real time. She will be close by as we call to mind and share the stories of our times together. Whenever we speak her name, we’ll feel her presence. – Jim Greer, Alpha Upsilon (Drexel)

13

rose...

No flower that grows is like

the

To Connie,

the rose of Pi Kappa Phi.

October 4, 1930 – September 23, 2020

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pikapp.org/news

~

Connie Owen In July of 1959, Connie Owen joined her husband, Durward W. Owen, as he moved to Sumter, South Carolina and began his 35-year term as Pi Kappa Phi’s Executive Director, which he describes in his memoir as “maybe the most critical decision ever made by a third party on behalf of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.”

As the fraternity’s “First Lady,” Connie was beloved and endeared herself to fraternity members and friends alike. Even after Durward’s retirement in 1994, they both were a welcome and constant presence at fraternal events.

She exemplified the lyrics of “The Rose of Pi Kappa Phi,” in her actions and in her kindness, and is forever memorialized as the namesake of the Connie Owen Order of the Rose Award, given to the most dedicated spouses of the fraternity’s membership.

The greater fraternity mourns the loss of Connie Owen, and is comforted in the outpouring of condolences family, friends, and members have shared in her memory in the next few pages, in addition to the footnotes on each page of this issue of The Star & Lamp.

~

update us on your life: pikapp.org/submitnews

15

chosen Connie, to s rd to o w final wen prior Durward’s ard and Connie O e ic rv se uw small by both D ing, were read at a r e b to c O ass on Connie’s p ily and friends in a g d a fam ill be rea s as of close lament w sse e a h p T e . h 0 3, 202 l when d. ra e n fu h rd’s ed usban at Durwa l words to her belov na Connie’s fi

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ead with o I can r s , u d o y y drink an ce it b , and pla e. Let us in im d w t g o in n Br and let it ur face. p with oil written upon yo m a l e h t s e ha feed der the e with m Connie, eeing un t your lif brance. fl a h d w n a s r g a te olin enjoyed is emem fire is co he win which we song of r e e h h t t ; g l in u t s y so and ved of m mp is dim, are shut. , oh belo oneliness; the la e ey m h t o t e r e os befo ear l Come cl one. Kiss ch other e, for I f a m e e n c o a p r souls as u b r k m u o E o o . e l s c e s a h u as et embr ur eyes. L ber then let slum closing o ; e m e c a embr . with you arms and stolen all. ve spent ith your a s h w a I h e h m h t t d u a yo Fin r de u and the loved, fo ell to yo w me, my be e r a f o s ver, My Fore se by me, o l c y. e r a You am. in the sk a tower s in a dre t a t il e u b m e e v ha ay w longings t yesterd I of your It was bu d n a , s s e r dawn. onen no longe e in my al m is o it t d g n n a u s t. ver, You have must par ream is o nd our d y, and we a a d d e r e fl l l s p ha to fu our slee s turned gether, But now aking ha w f l a again to h k r a u e o p s d n l l a ha on us ore, we s tide is up et once m e m The noon d l u o e sh he sky. memory w song. ower in t r ilight of t e w r p t e e e h e t d h o t a d an If in g to me hall buil shall sin eam we s r d and you r nd takes e h t arrives a t in ano h e t e a m e d d l n u e ho Love, wh r hands s hands of And if ou e h t in y safel s joined it remain ir p s e h T od. uls to G te. emory, r delega joined so m; your m n you he e o s o o r h g c g s rtin eath ha my comfo loved; d l remain l a Go my be h s e v lo as ms, your and she h empty ar n w o y m y Connie ne m fi u o o y s .

As for e n g t. I giv f heave weddin h o l ig a e n n c r a e ’d f t n e row my E e th g black b rs. She will mak me lovin a t o s c , e l t t h it ig in l ntle n w her t her out ight!

Come ge r and cu be in love with n ishes. No he e w h y e h k t a t o gt to t died, d will accordin eople! Glory be the worl p in peace, l t d ever l r n that all a a a p r e w o d f o g, is n epared in Connie r n t p n in n a g e e v e b r b e as ys the w let th , which h ost; as it was in Lord, no en the salvation Gh y l o H e e th es eyes hav n, and to d the So ut end! n a , r e h t Fa itho world w shall be, !

en! Amen

Amen! Am Edited from

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works by

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W. Owen

er rson. H cial pe al e r p e s v e and s redibly In an inc ree children . y r a ly p in d was sim rd, their th n was extraor loyal Connie Durwa was the ow hildre c e d h to n s a , r s n g r o n a t k ti e a a y e r to ic f g o d e de and denc mber hildren e confi long nu nie had th a n d o r a e C grandc h v e o s ecau rward y ways, ers. Du nd protected b so man a Ted and all matt fe in a s r s s both e a I decide partn She wa front w simply r. e e d to ge t m h a o t d h o could n t marr that his ot have respecte ols and was n d T n e a d e ’s d h fo pulled it ied the follow e B S r v e e . t. st lo e ff ix Man, Sa u r, m s e ing sum t e h off w o his s h s n w e e and Me lly was kn mer an e did thos and lissa ha the Flow ithout the Ow d we All who nd elegant. Sh d position of t years n ens. Du h d e ig le r m e d G n a y a ir th a le ty l, tt rward w e e b r e ix D a n s G c tu a d v u t ti a ta s id e c n s o st ts w e B pra lm w a th a o s h o th ic r w k h was tr . Connie e Ring B as hat we a lden to ried fo met. ssed a uly spec sked the earer, hosted all beho partner, mar all she r witne e e ia c v e O a l. v e n w e luncheo r a n O r e e h I ything s nly in re ns to un fe and h n for onnie s to en lf e p d C tr e e e ti s g was a li o c r li r s ia ta a e in p l k u e h w a e ct n .

Whatev f kno t her q e knew ocess, one of er Conn d the wedding a But that was Co did I realize brough st sixty years o ent” Sh ie touch homem nnie. Sh ll came the pr k mom c in a a e o , e made d d b ff d e w n b it p In almo a eautifull imento take ten peo . inary a cheese s s simply done r y.

I could ple, it w xtraord ve ever known e ig a n h ly d t. p w a “I wish W ic s all don im a h for lun h I don’t e was s ble people I h e with e ch or a s ether that be a think th ppa Phi legance role. Sh itdown She cer i. Pi Ka ere was emora M , a m ) n dinner fo t n d s ta er o st anythin in th the m r g that w yle. rida Sou comforta ly perfected th eta (Flo a e s B b a le b r a t e . et y o She was ond Co f enterta B , n ei st nnie’s g a dear fr ining an charfen ras iend and d makin – Ted S resident – Madelin g people p.

I miss h tional P a e N S ch e st feel r a a rf every da P enstein, O y. rder of th e Rose R ecipient Our lives were dir For instan e ce, we nev ctly impacted by Connie O er heard word ab her say a wen. out anyo harsh or ne. She demonstra unkind loved us ted that b lik y always and accom showing in e family and plishmen terest in o ts. Connie when req ur lives was an ex uested, al cellent list ways offe Connie w ener and, red good as the mo ad v ic e. ther of Pi always op Kappa Ph en for bro i. Her hom thers and treated al wives, for e was l brothers I will alw a visit or ays cheri lik always su meal. She sh the me Connie’s pported D e her own family mories of presence urward in and, of co Kappa Ph Supreme not only o urse, attraction his work i.

Chapters n the outi s, but also and love and ngs to mu for Pi at the Nu speak to seums or Phi dinne everyone – Bill Fin other rs. She m and in th ney, Gamm to flock to ade a poin e last few a Xi (Georg her. I’m n & Jane Fin t to years, eve ia Southwes ot sure h meals! C ney, Order ryone see ow she ev tern) onnie ha of the Ros med e d r e Recipient fi a n w w is e ay h were the ed one of of makin ery most imp those g each on was v genuinely ortant pe e of us fe de; he a rs ca o el as if re n m a d r t a e a b n o v y u e g t in iv e d o a e ch one o ur lives. n momen ike war f us and t. She ords l n Dur what was Perhaps ecisio id. ady. W out her l d going on t o n s n r e e e d o b b f h a t e e m u S h h y y u l t o p fo s s reme Cha ndest me was p,” a quick ong mories is onnie arry u us, str e to mind lan.

Council cr pter in Atlanta. Th from the our ying C s all to “m f a gracio c is was the r r e m a r n o te o a f 2014 e d c the Conn s w u o M s g s year that O g e e n C l i n e o f i m n a l h l h n o t e ie t p ie t el s the Natio i f p t t O w p a w o a a d f s e e e o n K n e th r e a i g e O g nal r rd , h fi P t rs a e g y t r t h s n fond n u re o honor to f the Rose cipient a ma abo rturi ie wa ther. y in c share this nd I was Award.

Conn ghtful, nu ays calml plished so early cared every bro e th in la a e u d se g y u co u h who supp ral award nd. What and r, s e cl com s alw tho orted and a an each ve ac nothe rt. Sh kind, he wa Connie O loved Pi K longside this rem arly s uld not ha and suppo s there for e or a rested in e l m arkable w i c a en t p p , d a e e w y t P it o e a n h h an c n v i o i w h b fo o l e er e t l s r d a m a o g r w y r ver 60 ye race, kind issed by s a a t e all of us. ars! ness, war Durw without h and she wa onal office e was alw ee you tha ts compassio mth, and Her spirit d sh ear nati did rant nity n h n r love will , a e a e te r w e u h ac h t as e u t g t h a s o al in t r d a n w f g o ay e n a l u i h s r c v s th c r a s o I e v u s e h er ex flowing w pansive h C m es. os ine ospitality ith Phi as ll of us wh we were in t employe s an empt – Lyn Hav of the Fra ei jus ard, Order r t e ternity. o For a om when h n t , s of the Ros d l n a a u M d s i e Recipient er ur iv was o g us as ind own Moth in lled. our i i f s h a e know P b r ppa ed he annot Pi Ka all lov t simply c ), Mr. is a h h p t ch in m now a (Me a Bea irgini took me a Delt V m m n a i G nie tion l Carter, s. Con derfu onven – Tom Phi c other wive had a won next a p p Ka he nd I to the y of t ple, a rst Pi my fi t know an meet peo ng forward welcoming f o s o o i e look ift of mori and did n ortunity t d me I was a special g p e an op ed home ve fon new brid d a d a h tunity a h h s oppor and alway e, I was a tain that I s I return wives. She n l a l i e , w v I same t tim ld ha e cer new oon a I wou ver be the At tha g and mad tion. As s the other e . s 8 u 6 a 9 1 n f in s bec ns will ne . conve her w r all o ntion o under nce at the did that fo earts conve e conventi e h e our h e t i i r o n n t i e h n t p s d o , s r x e a e .C . ine d forw ntion . For m empt ryone conve luding eve ways looke od friends here is an l o t c a g t n I n, tha ame and i then o wives e bec From nie, and w the other r n Co k fo t to see that I spea ecipien ose R w o R n e k h I of t Order arrish, P ia c r – Ma

17

ce ational offi wing the n g llo in fo ov k m ee e w the iddle of th Charlotte and s, e. In the m tt er n I came to lo n ar di h C ily with Sumter to to the fam — petite, move from comed me el uthern belle w so a ie n of e on ag edingly im ce y ex m chaos, C d et n accent, an eam. She m er cr h e ut ic ld say so h ou ul ac w pe onderf Durward with that w med mer. Later su m as su s ul soft spoken ay rf w pe, but I al was a wonde ci It re . is us h io as ac gr mw m. ach ice crea ake that clai a special that the pe ly let him m ays added us w io al ac gs gr n ti ie n ee on m C issed at al m n at th atio She will be ce at the n s enjoyed. ay Her presen w al e w arm that touch of ch ngs. ti ee m hi future Pi Kappa P State), Mr. a ow (I n ro Omic rish, Alpha – Frank Par

I first Prope met Connie rties B in 197 oa organ ization rd. As with 3 upon beco ming everyo s , an act she p am ne iv r Durwa e interest in omptly sou serving “th ember of th e Natio g rd inv e PKP m h t to y lif ited m nal” fr when aternit e to st e apart from develop a I was a f y r y at th in Ch analog arlott eir ho Pi Kappa P iendship an y, as hi. Co me on d At the part of the e, always t n a n n ie u reatin ir f 1989 person g me, mber of occ and Washin amily. a asions for lac gton somew lly welcome k DC S of a b d h u etter to fam at intimidat Mary Beth preme Ch a ing ev ily ma a p n t e d r , “Mis sheph ents o tters. that e s Co erde n th We xp other erience and cherish Co ose days w d her throu nnie” hen I occasio nnie’s gh the the se wa wa ns w veral s Mary ubseq rmth and fr s absent du Beth a hen she wa e u ie e nt sa nd nd I sh all mis highlight o Supreme C ship from – Dav f our f h s dear a pters rate lady “M id a iss Co rnity exper nd & Mr. Lane, Omega n ience. n ie Pi Ka ( .”

P u r d p u

I have s pent th e last 35 Kapp, tr ying to years as foll of the fr a spous e of a v aternity ow Connie’s ex e . It has b ample o so close r f how to ry involved Pi o ught me to his h support eart, jus g r e a Connie t joy to he h t like Co was a kin lp suppo is love nnie did to those rt a caus for Dur she love d and generous e w a rd. d. Becau soul wh She wa s the k o gave h ind of g se of this, she e r strength w hole he was mu enteel, de art ch lov south and willi ep inside, but it was alw ern woman w ed in return. ng to he h lp o a y a c s One of th t a mom ar just belo ent's no w the su ried her e greate a “Conn tice. rface re ie Owen st honors I hav ady e ever re O to live u ceived w p to her rder Of The R a o s ideals a s citizen o being n nd goals e” recipient. I f the wo , as a wif strive e amed rld. very da e of a P y i Kappa – Jay Stu Phi and a ckel, B

eta ne Stucke Epsilon (Missou r l, Order of the Ro i) se Recip ien

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gracious ive, and very r, caring, attent he the grill ot m as ’ w nd d co ar w ‘se While Dur Connie was a g! in ok great to co as r w e and he available. It with her hom ad at a onderful food w ro d e ha th s on ay w e ie al so much tim ng master, Conn artha, di M en , sp ife r w te family af Man and my st Be y m be around a as r 45 years. e. Durward w the Owens fo e fraternity hous lationship with d to her hom re te r vi ou in d e ue er in w u yo , od re and I cont su go h e always mak she would teac Connie would ng ace to go, and ni pl di e no d th ha on u ays if yo ur elbows over the holid r if you put yo eryone rs. I remembe the table as ev ne an nd m ou rn ar n he ru sout to d ha u yo caught, arlie.’ table and got off the table Ch was smart, p your elbows staff’s. She ee ‘k e d, th te d an an ch se arity and Ro ch , d’s war had church e Sh She was Dur . g up nd ki ds and keepin , strong and ising three ki ra sophisticated le hi w ts mmitmen volunteer co schedule. unpredictable d’s ar w ur D ith w

e ylik , lad lued t e i va ys qu estern Carolina) feel a her ma Epsilon (W am ith others she alw G n, w tto Su s , ed king – Charle ents ress a ther imp y of m hese ev o s h a w ac ly wa r at t we cial er I ad a he e sa l, espe she w geth . She h de on , l o , 7 t t e c 97 as w e me re ma in 1 t-ele as a wer we erest in ds we otte events residen er. It w he l r e a n t t l h p a im r in a . at e ry t dem ruffled ed to C at soci he was helm l eople in v Eve r and h many s n e p d o u n Very m hen ok th htful As ne and ts a for we home early on D man pecial. control s after ty even Club. Ws she to y delig rked too. o m s u i n e w r a a f prett ade house rward an and ared in he yea fratern butant rt her who eet sel ess, so m y rou d n t t e e o i e e y p n p D h w n m m g d p s h, a v n the foo Connie ca a le ild sup ma oug thills ery u ung nd her ty, kin s the not at all me to o Thr tly at era Gu oup to a coup y nc wh of a a y si the s Op urpri at Conni onvention the NC m visit me in uen man o them genero f to me e as e gr o s e s l a ou freq gh the join th e, as w eo m lp while w to , le t rse d. u c sittin f the une as expect lace to liv ntains. It w y her her tab fulness red he t r thro me to perien o o i g m x e and n as p t g w o y m a e . n h g c d e A s e x t e t g a n e f e d e I u t h t i d er rec dio. W log o suspe visit, ask erful oga , open , thou she en se of t m n r c o e r t h w v t a h d i e u e n l ri e top e a dere s ys ng ars sen es won p. of a d at down a ng from s th the ye listeni the wa e best Of co d to a pla little hal a u n i w r & o d r t f h t c gr nie ove in t wo ng, ient looking urse, Durwa e of real ex ing at first, bank overl talked ident Con ernity elcomi st a fe oman chan oo rd le at C the c Pres se Recip t u l w curio j a w a r n e onver king n f o us, ha onnie who d much of ge. tio a the rmth, hese ar outher R sation t e d N h g f a e h e p ce to n t st as Wa n — t face a robing qu uinely wa conversat , Pa rder of e of o ) l i I i t e a p c n o s i s o o n t t e i u g a , on O dt bu ld r h dev ct exam me de sense tha uman. Pol s and slow o connect t I kept (Geo ppy, e t Con ite sm . She spite ly cam bda Lisa Ta perf m n was a w a ie e ll ha L Conn ie wa t to her m was truly talk fell to to meet m ppy, Phi , & a a n e s T u e t n y st ha alwa he s thin gag a hil years g, so that ys keenly ve been a ed and ca ide and – P i Kapp r v o s e o ery u P an ar f my life: t he could b bserving, nusua d about Mr. tis n h e l would tic career e raising o present w ot missing context. ,a f it m she g pass thoro nd the ge children, h you. Th uch of the u enuin r neral ugh o o ugh 4 ps a ely vi n in my life a cared. I a occasion a cissitudes nd downs 0 n m of life nd tr d to D o the lo uly , Con f ss of urwa grateful to nie a soli rd for Conn connect d par b a i e ec llowin t of m g me for being p ause – Tho y life. to kn resen mas S o t w her. I a Co-F feel ounde yre, Kappa r

( e Abi UNC - Ch ap lity Ex perien el Hill) ce

of Th

18 || FALL2020

~

Connie Owen truly embodied the values of Pi Kappa Phi every day. Her impact on Pi Kappa Phi will live on in each of us.

Thank you Connie for your years of love and support of Pi Kappa Phi; Our great fraternity is better because of you and you will always remain The Rose of Pi Kappa Phi. ď‚Ť

~

update us on your life: pikapp.org/submitnews

19

20 || FALL2020

Iota Phi (Loyola - New Orleans)

ANDERSON LEAL

to rethink what was important when recruiting; that was brotherhood,” Leal said. “We were able to recruit a new member class that saw the power of community, that valued comradery and was interested in creating change. When recruiting, we shared the value that joining our chapter would bring and emphasized the need to go through tough times together.

Brotherhood is not just the social aspect, but being a support system to one another.”

What hasn’t changed, however, has been the support of the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation’s donors. In 2020, the fraternity has been fortunate to receive the support of committed lifelong members and friends of the fraternity for the financial support they have made possible for undergraduate members.

As an exemplar of the values Leal was proud to see in his chapter’s associate member class, Iota Chi (Ball State) Colton Robbins said that the commitment to one another extends past the undergraduate experience, and chose to support future opportunities with a monthly donation to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation.

"Pi Kappa Phi has provided me an opportunity to better myself and those around me through leadership and service, and I firmly believe I would not be the person I am today without the Fraternity,” Robbins said. “I feel it is our shared responsibility as young alumni and as brothers to want the same opportunities and empowerment for our future brothers.”

Iota Chi (Ball State)

THIS YEAR, it has been challenging for our members to find a sense of consistency in their collegiate experience, impacting the leadership, educational and social opportunities provided to them through Pi Kappa Phi. As campuses continue to adapt and alter their operating procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Pi Kappa Phi has sought out virtual options to provide an exceptional fraternal experience that transcends distance and creates meaningful connections between brothers.

That same challenge has been accepted by students across the country, as Iota Phi (Loyola - New Orleans) member Anderson Leal said as the chapter approached recruiting new members this fall.

“With the challenge of being online, we had

COLTON ROBBINS

MY EXPERIENCE WITH PI KAPPA PHI HAS BEEN INVALUABLE TO ME THROUGHOUT THE YEARS, AND I WISH TO PRESERVE THAT SAME TYPE OF EXPERIENCE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

His gift, in addition to the impact that hundreds of dedicated members have made through monthly, quarterly, or annual gifts of their own, continues to support scholarships and leadership opportunities to undergraduate members, including a fully-virtual adaptation of Pi Kappa College for Chapter Officers this winter, and an online strengths discovery series which took the place of Pi Kapp College for Emerging Leaders this past summer.

“Supporting the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation, to me, is supporting both the resources and experiences that will develop our current and future brothers as exceptional young leaders,” Robbins said.” I provide this support through an automatic monthly gift and plan to do more as I am able.”

She was so special to so many. She is actually the person who greeted me at the airport when I flew in for my interview with Pi Kappa Phi. I always remember how comforting she was to me as I was trying to become a ‘grown up.’ – Mike Rothschild, Gamma Nu (LaGrange)

NATIONAL

SCHOLARSHIPS Additional scholarship information can be found at pikapp.org.

SPRING 2020: $ 37,837.83 | 46 RECIPIENTS FALL 2020: $59,550.00 | 60 RECIPIENTS PI KAPP SCHOLARS AWARD As the oldest and most prestigious scholarship in Pi Kappa Phi, the Pi Kapp Scholars Award is intended to recognize outstanding juniors and seniors and reinforce the idea that to lead in one’s chapter is to first lead in the classroom.

DAVID D. MORGAN EXTRA MILE NATIONAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM Named after Beta Omicron (Northwestern State) alumnus David D. Morgan, his namesake scholarship seeks to recognize academic performance by Pi Kappa Phi’s undergraduate members while also encouraging active and sustained involvement within students’ chapters, campuses, and surrounding communities.

As a recipient of both a David D. Morgan “Extra Mile” Scholarship and an International Scholars award, Anderson is thankful for the financial support he has received as a brother of Pi Kappa Phi. “Both were a blessing,” Leal said. “Thanks to the International Scholars Award I was able to go abroad to Madrid in Spain and gain an international perspective of academia. I also got to travel and share my experiences with my brothers.”

In 2020, the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation gave more than $100,000 in scholarships to its members to assist in financing their education, and has continued to support leadership development and risk management & prevention workshops in a virtual capacity for thousands of undergraduate members, virtual and hybrid training for chapter advisors, and online support resources for more than 1,000 volunteers.

Additionally, The Pi Kappa Phi Foundation has continued to support the fraternity’s growth by supporting associate members at each new colonization and re-colonization effort, providing scholarships to select students.

This support is made possible by the variety of ways that Pi Kappa Phi’s donors continue to support their brothers. The connection that donors, such as Alpha Psi (Indiana) alumnus David S. Shook III, have to their fraternity drives them to seek out intuitive ways to give back to their fraternity.

“So many of my memories of college are tied to Pi Kappa Phi,” Shook said. “I made great friends, learned a lot about myself, and developed my skills as a leader and responsible citizen thanks to our Fraternity. Geography and circumstances may separate us, but I will be eternally connected to my Pi Kapp brothers through the oath I took as an undergraduate.”

In addition to giving directly to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation either through an online donation or commitment to a monthly gift, donors have given to the Foundation through stock, qualified individual retirement accounts, donor advised funds and by listing Pi Kappa Phi in their Estate plans or Will.

“My experience with Pi Kappa Phi has been invaluable to me throughout the years, and I wish to preserve that same type of experience for future generations,” Shook said. “By naming Pi Kappa Phi Foundation in my will, I am confident that after I am gone, my estate gift will support the leadership and educational programs that are instrumental in developing the future leaders of Pi Kappa Phi and beyond.”

As our undergraduate leaders continue to persevere and thrive through a global pandemic, and as committed alumni and friends continue to provide essential support to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation, the fraternity will continue to create exceptional leaders and provide uncommon opportunities for generations of men to come. 

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INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARS International Scholars is an opportunity for outstanding student leaders who might not otherwise be able to afford a study abroad experience to gain firsthand knowledge and understanding of the various businesses and economic and cultural differences inherently found in other parts of the world.

OUTSTANDING ASSOCIATE MEMBER This scholarship recognizes and motivates those Associate Members who show strong commitments to academic excellence. While their involvement with the fraternity and other campus activities are important, it is the work done in the classroom that sets an example for other future Pi Kappa Phi members to follow.

CRAIG A. WINKELMANN HEALTH PROFESSIONS SCHOLARSHIP Students studying or planning to study medicine in the fields of dentistry, osteopathic medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy or general medicine are eligible for this scholarship in recognition of Craig A. Winkelman, a successful owner of his own dentistry practice and Alpha Rho (West Virginia) alumnus.

OTIS R. MCCOLLUM MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP In Memory of Otis R. McCollum, Kappa (UNC-Chapel Hill), this scholarship dedicated in his namesake and service to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation as a member of its Board of Trustees recognizes initiated members of chartered North Carolina chapters.

THE DR. WILLIAM SANDFORD DURRELL SCHOLARSHIP FOR EXCELLENCE IN CHEMISTRY Awarded in Fall, this scholarship is to be given to a Pi Kappa Phi brother in good standing, who is a rising junior, senior or graduate student pursuing a degree in the field of chemistry.

She was treasured by so many, especially your Pi Kappa Phi family. May you be able to remember and celebrate all of her goodness and spirit in the days and weeks to come. We will keep you in your thoughts and prayers. - anonymous

21

DIVERSIT Y, EQUIT Y, AND INCLUSION

OUR COMMITMENT

COMMITTEE UPDATE ON JUNE 8, 2020, Pi Kappa Phi published “Our Commitment,” a pledge to prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion within our organization that began with the creation of a new standing committee that will assess current practices and will make recommendations for the future.

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Standing Committee, held its first meetings in October and November.

Comprised of dedicated undergraduate members, committed Pi Kappa Phi alumni, friends of the fraternity representing a myriad of educational and organizational backgrounds, and pertinent headquarters staff members, the committee began work on a two-year strategic plan they anticipate presenting at the 57th Supreme Chapter in 2022.

James Dukes, an alumnus of the Eta Pi Chapter at Coastal Carolina, serves as the committee's chair. In his role, he is asking members to speak honestly and openly, and that includes examining Pi Kappa Phi’s previous history, statements and actions that have impacted its membership and how the fraternity has been perceived.

“In order to properly move forward we felt it is necessary to examine our past and look at our past in context with what was happening in the country and around the world and how that perhaps shaped the fraternity’s position over the years,” Dukes said. “Like many organizations that have been around for over a hundred years, there may have been a period of time where we were not as inclusive and open as we would have wanted to be.”

The committee intends to accomplish the development of its plan over four phases: reviewing the fraternity’s history and remnants of oppression, acknowledging

PHASE 1

and apologizing for the fraternity’s past actions, reviewing and reimagining standing practices and policies, and developing a fleshed-out strategic plan to guide the fraternity forward.

Over the next year and a half, the committee will continue to meet with an aggressive timeline, with the expectation to issue statements and recommendations that directly address diversity, equity and inclusion. Following that, the committee will continue to operate with the understanding that the fraternity’s commitment to these values are everlasting.

“By making the DEI committee a standing committee the National Council has indicated how important they expect the work to be. Since the committee was announced I have heard from not only each National Officer but alumni and student members from all over the country expressing optimism about the expectations of the committee and how it will make our brotherhood stronger.”

The positions that Pi Kappa Phi has taken regarding diversity, equity and inclusion have not been met without resistance from individual members.

Understanding how important Pi Kappa Phi is to its members, Dukes is confident these conscious efforts are necessary to progress the fraternity forward.

“Most folks no matter what the situation no matter how big or small generally do not like change,” Dukes said. “But as all things living must change so must we; because we are a living Fraternity.

I think the biggest challenge is going to be opening up our Brothers to change.

And while I say accepting change may be a challenge, I am confident that as our work progresses and we make clear how

PHASE 2

any proposed change will make us better, those changes will be widely accepted by our Chapters and members.”

In addition to the fraternity’s new standing committee, headquarters staff has already been working on new resources to provide diversity, equity and inclusion educational opportunities to members.

This fall, students have already been receiving The Crux, a partnership between Pi Kappa Phi and Theta Xi Fraternity, which examines film, books, podcasts and other forms of entertainment which address racial and ethnic issues as a part the “This Month in Pi Kappa Phi,” e-newsletter, and directs students to consider different viewpoints regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.

As a fraternity, we must challenge our members, our leaders and our communities to ensure Pi Kappa Phi is a place where diverse experiences and ideas can be shared; where mutual respect and greater understanding are demonstrated and we accept our responsibility in devising solutions to the painful realities of racial intolerance, which must end.

As the standing committee continues to evaluate Pi Kappa Phi’s policies, positions, history and actions, Dukes is looking forward to the opportunities to strengthen our brotherhood and develop its membership to become an even greater fraternity.

"I feel that what this committee can and will do will strengthen the bonds of Brotherhood in Chapters across the Country and help to open the doors of understanding as we build better men,” Dukes said. “At the end of the day I guess I am looking forward to seeing our final product that will be presented at Supreme Chapter!” 

PHASE 3

PHASE 4

HISTORY:

ACKNOWLEDGMENT:

REVIEW & REIMAGINE:

STRATEGIC PLANNING:

review history, how we got where we are

be transparent & acknowledge, apologize

collaborate, review, and reimagine –

develop strategic plan

& identify remnants of oppression

look at programs, policies and make recommendations for change Model adapted from Monica Johnson’s Path Toward Change Model.

22 || FALL2020

Never have I known a more dear person than Connie. – Nancy and Freddy Holtkamp

pikapp.org/news

Have you heard of the Pi Kappa Phi Alumni LinkedIn Group? For alumni, seniors and juniors of Pi Kappa Phi who wish to network together for social and professional reasons, check out the link and join!

bit.ly/pkplinkedinalumni

"Children are our greatest treasure.

They are our future."

– Nelson Mandela

THE PI KAPP FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM Pi Kappa Phi’s Family Member Program celebrates alumni who have become parents and stresses the importance of fraternity and family.

Enroll your child in the Family Member Program today and celebrate your Pi Kapp children and keep in touch until college.

For questions regarding the Family Member Program, please visit:

bit.ly/pikappfamily What a wonderful woman she was! She always made Mike and I feel welcome. – Sue & Mike Ward,

Alpha (College of Charleston)

23

SUPPORTING THE MISSION BY, NI CH OL A S E B E L H AC K

AND HOW IT'S NEVER TO LATE TOO START BY, N ICH OL A S E B E L H ACK

AS AN UNDERGRADUATE, Omega (Purdue) alumnus Tim Smith had heard of Journey of Hope but hadn’t had the opportunity to participate. As a passionate cyclist, he thought he had missed his opportunity to participate.

However, when the opportunity for alumni to be a part of the Journey of Hope team presented itself to Smith, he began exploring the very real possibility of putting his passion for cycling to work in the service of others.

“Two years ago, I started exploring it as a real possibility by talking with the folks at The Ability Experience,” Smith said. “I had narrowed in on doing it this year to celebrate turning 50 but decided that I didn’t want to miss my oldest daughter’s last summer at home. When I read about a woman doing a virtual marathon in her driveway because of the quarantine restrictions, I flipped my thinking and started focusing on how I could do something similar with the JOH.” Smith’s dream of participating in Journey of Hope and combining his experience as a cyclist with his commitment to equality and inclusion had been developing for years, but as a family man, the time had never been right until the necessary shift for Journey of Hope to become a virtual experience in 2020 was presented to him.

His connection to The Ability Experience and the beginning of his Journey of Hope aspirations began in 2018 when he participated in the Bike the Drive event in Chicago in partnership with Envision Unlimited, a Chicago-based nonprofit which serves people with disabilities.

“Since that first ride in 2018, I’ve been an active volunteer and supporter of the Envision

24 || FALL2020

Unlimited Buddy Biking Program. The Buddy Biking Program promotes inclusion, fitness, teamwork, and community involvement through opportunities for program participants and volunteers to ride together on local trails and in local events. Last year, after many training rides on Chicago’s 606 trail, my buddy, Matthew, and I rode the entire 30-mile Bike the Drive route on a tandem bike with my son, Cooper.

I hope that social distancing will end in Journey of Hope North Route. time for Matthew to do some JOH rides with me this summer.”

Committed to service, Smith said that his desire to serve people with disabilities is driven by feelings he receives when he knows he has improved the world around him.

“I feel very fortunate,” Smith said. “I’ve had a lot of opportunities and good luck throughout my life. I feel that it is important to pay it forward and do what I can to brighten other people’s lives. The funny thing is that the more I give, the more my own life is enriched.

It’s a virtuous cycle.”

With a truly uncommon opportunity presented to him in the form of a virtual Journey of Hope, Smith understood how important his role as a Pi Kappa Phi is in serving people with disabilities as a team member during a time where connections are a scarce resource.

“People need us,” Smith said. “Many service organizations have had to pause or

severely cut back on their programming. The communities that many people count on for friendship and support evaporated overnight and face uncertain futures. The men of Pi Kappa Phi have always been servants and leaders and we can be at the forefront of helping to rebuild and support these communities.”

As a result of his exceptional a c c o m p l i s h m e nt s , cycling thousands of miles raising more than $20,000 total between The Ability Experience and Envision Unlimited, Smith has been recognized by The Ability Experience as a Pi Alpha for his outstanding commitment to service. The ability to make a difference in the lives of others isn’t limited by time, and neither is Smith.

“Pi Kappa Phi is about lifelong commitment and The Ability Experience was founded on the idea of lifelong service,” Smith said.

“While a lot of the programming is geared toward undergraduates, there are many opportunities, particularly through The Ability Experience Challenges, for alumni to stay involved, support the mission, and serve their local communities. Personally, I’ve found it much more rewarding to participate directly and form personal relationships like this than to only make a donation or attend a corporate service day. And remember, it’s never too late to make a difference.” 

Connie brightened our lives every time we were with her. She was a special inspiration to all of us. – Ray Orians, EVP Emeritus, Pi Kappa Alpha

pikapp.org/news

ABILITY EXPERIENCE Challenges have drawn participants in previous years to highprofile running races across the country with the opportunities to complete a host of events from short distance fun-runs to marathons alongside an enabled athlete, and to raise funds for The Ability Experience’s programs.

Many races, however, have been either cancelled or shifted to a virtual program in 2020, providing socially distant opportunities for athletes to compete with others and challenge themselves. Likewise, Challenges have shifted to a new format, allowing more people than ever before to run, walk and roll to raise funds on behalf of The Ability Experience.

On September 26 and 27, 2020, The Ability Experience hosted its first virtual 5k to outstanding success. More than 230 people from around the world, including participants in Germany, completed the challenge, raising over $17,000 for The Ability Experience for its inaugural race weekend.

“We were so excited and appreciative of the incredible turnout and support from the Virtual 5k,” said Andrew Matznick. “COVID-19 has

impacted everyone in different ways, so it was fantastic for everyone to come together and show support for our friends with disabilities by participating and/or donating!”

The Ability Experience is continuing its race series on December 4-6 in honor of Founders’ Day (December 10, 2020) with its Founders’ Day 5k. Participants can honor Pi Kappa Phi’s 116th anniversary by registering before December 5 and challenging themselves in honor of our uncommon brotherhood more than a century in the making, and can even choose to add an additional mile in honor of the Pi Kappa Phi’s fourth honorary founder, Durward W. Owen.

More virtual, and in-person, race opportunities will be available through 2021 as The Ability Experience continues to provide opportunities to challenge themselves and raise money and awareness for future programming. You can check out www.

TeamAbEx.org for more information on future events and the eventual return of in-person Ability Experience Challenges throughout the year to accept the challenge yourself.

“We are excited for the opportunity to participate in a few in-person races again beginning this spring,” Matznick continued.

“Our friends with disabilities have been socially isolated for much of this pandemic and they are craving social interaction again. We are working closely with our partners and within safety guidelines to enable athletes of all abilities to race again. There will also continue to be virtual races to challenge oneself and support the programs of The Ability Experience. All races, both virtual and in-person, will be updated on www.TeamAbEx.org.” 

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Words are inadequate in expressing my profound sadness at Connie’s passing. God decided he needed another angel and he certainly chose one of the best. – Leslie Paliyenko

25

The kindness and commitment to responsible citizenship does not go unnoticed among Pi Kappa Phi’s membership. Throughout what has been an incredibly challenging year for many, undergraduate and alumni alike have served as exemplars of the fraternity’s values by stepping up to lead and serve where needed.

The fraternity is proud to recognize some of its members who have gone above and beyond their pledge to uphold Pi Kappa Phi’s values as outstanding community members and dedicated servant leaders. In challenging times, those who have challenged themselves to make a difference are deserving of praise.

COVID HEROES COVID H MEMBERS OF THE Theta Kappa Chapter at Baylor utilized a donation from Baylor Scott & White and helped distribute more than 21,000 bottles of hand sanitizer donated to the university this fall across campus to greek organizations and residence halls, providing more than $110,000 worth of product.

“In a year of a pandemic and a year when nobody is getting to do anything, we’re getting to help,” Chapter Advisor Randy Wood said in an article from the Baylor Lariat, Baylor’s student-run newspaper.

“We hope it will help continue to make our campus safe. We are down to around 74 active cases now. I’m ready to see us going down to zero, and maybe this will help us do that. We hope so.”

Chapter member Christian McSweeny expressed that he and his brothers were more than happy to help their campus community, and were able to use the volunteer experience as an opportunity to come together as a brotherhood to make an impact.

“We are super excited about this,” McSweeny said. “This is something I think is really great, especially considering we are in the middle of the pandemic. Hopefully, this can alleviate some uncertainty with the times that are going on right now. We just want to do everything we can to help out the Baylor community and to help Waco.” 

26 || FALL2020

THETA KAPPA

Connie was a lovely, caring, delightful, loving, supportive wife, mother, grandmother and friend, and a true lady.

– Phil, former Executive Director, Alpha Gamma Rho and Jane Josephson

pikapp.org/news

PSI RYAN PERNICE, Psi (Cornell) alumnus and founder of RO Hospitality in Georgia, had been serving his community at each of his three restaurants for nearly a decade, but when COVID-19 impacted the restaurant industry, he opened his doors to the possibility of service in a greater context.

“A leader can say anything except ‘I give up,’” Pernice said in a Forbes article, written by fellow Psi alumnus Shahar Ziv. “We’ll continue the fight.”

In late March, as COVID-19 began to impact traditional dining, RO Hospitality launched a program to feed their community called “Table & Aid,” and have served close to ten thousand people in need of food.

“Immediately, our efforts became very real. Tangible. Immediate. And close. The abstractions are gone,” Pernice wrote in a Facebook post after receiving a heartfelt note from a community member. “This is a more visceral hospitality. And I am humbled and grateful to experience the welling of emotion for being able to do this work.”

Pernice’s commitment to bettering his community and putting service before self is exemplary of Pi Kappa Phi’s value, and we are proud of both his accomplishments in the hospitality industry and his compassionate approach to handling the impact of COVID-19. 

ETA PHI (UMBC) alumnus Ian Ramsay Turner’s sense of community drove him to make a difference. As a resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, situated between the University of Virginia Hospital and Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital systems, many of his friends are medical professionals helping battle COVID-19.

In a community of nurses, physician assistants, doctors, medical students and surgical technicians, Turner had frequently heard about the discomfort these professions had been feeling, citing soreness behind their ears from wearing a face mask for extended periods of time.

An engineer himself, when he saw a post on social media from his chapter brother Tony Digennaro on how to make ear guards that prevent soreness from long-term wear, he used his personal 3D printer and began working to distribute as many of the guards as he could on his own.

“Later that day, I got home from work and fired up my printer to start printing the ear guards,” Turner said. I wanted to be able to provide relief for those on the frontline of this pandemic, even if it was something as small as comfort. As printing began, I reached out to friends and family who I knew may need them.”

He quickly was able to distribute his initial run, and as supply struggled to meet the demand for more guards, he worked with his employer to utilize 3D printers at his place of work, and was able to create 2,000 ear

guards in a matter of weeks for hospitals, local businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Turner said he’s received a fantastic response from the people who have received ear guards, and in later batches, he’s been able to continue to print the guards in a variety of colors.

“Many of my coworkers’ family members and significant others are part of the medical community and once they got their ear guards, everyone in their units started asking for them as well,” Turner said. “All those who got the ear guards no longer had any complaints about discomfort.”

Serving his community by printing ear guards echoed back to Turner’s experience as an undergraduate member of Pi Kappa Phi, and harkened back to his commitment as a servant leader.

“Being a Brother of Pi Kappa Phi, Eta Phi instilled a strong sense of community from the moment I became an Associate Member,” Turner said. “Eta Phi has always participated in community events and helped in whatever ways we could, especially at a local Baltimore County Public School for the differently abled, Maiden Choice. Along with our commitment in our community, our chapter took a strong focus on The Ability Experience.”

“With all of my experiences combined, I felt a great responsibility in taking action to help those on the front lines of the pandemic in any way that I could.” 

HEROES COVID HEROES

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ETA PHI

Connie was always so sweet and kind to me, though I was ‘everything Pi Kappa Phi,’ I was only a worker and yet Connie made me feel part of the Pi Kapp family. – Frannie & Allen Friedenberg

27

CHAPTER

ETERNAL

We express our condolences and mourn the recent passing of our brothers now in the Chapter Eternal. May their memory remain in our hearts and their families be surrounded by love.

Alpha (College Of Charleston) Douglas Johnson, 4/26/20 Beta (Presbyterian) Earl Alford, 1/15/19 Delta (Furman) Claude Daniels, 6/24/18 Charles Leslie, 1/2/19 Epsilon (Davidson) John Flowers, 4/22/20 James Hardwick, 2/3/20 Clifford Pash, 11/8/19 Zeta (Wofford) Robert Mccurdy, 3/27/20 Iota (Georgia Tech) Thomas Lowndes, 9/24/19 Thomas Mowe, 7/29/20 Robert Nixon, 11/3/19 F Scott, 9/2/19 Kappa (UNC - Chapel Hill) George Anderson, 7/20/20 Raymond Briggs, 12/24/19 Frank Mcneill, 8/27/20 Lambda (Georgia) John Rhyne, 8/23/19 James Wall, 5/25/19 Mu (Duke) Richard Frederking, 12/7/19 Xi (Roanoke) Randy Freas, 7/3/20 Stanley Glasofer, 10/24/20 Claude Hughes, 9/4/18 Ira Hurt, 6/28/18 Jerome Liess, 8/10/18 Richard Minnix, 11/28/18 Werner Neubauer, 2/3/19 Dewitt Petterson, 6/21/18 Charles Vigness, 11/17/18 Omicron (Alabama) Lloyd Jones, 6/5/20 Barry Mccrary, 10/6/18 Allan Mcleod, 11/27/19 Arthur Till, 2/18/19 Charles Trimmier, 1/2/20 Fletcher Vickers, 9/28/18 Sigma (South Carolina) Jerry Ellis, 5/11/20 David Fowler, 11/5/19 John Mcinnes, 6/9/20 Tau (NC State) William Hagan, 1/29/20 David Ivey, 7/5/20

28 || FALL2020

Tau (NC State) cont.

Jere Pearsall, 9/26/20 Donald Rink, 11/1/18 William Robbins, 12/26/19 Thomas Saieed, 7/19/19 Edward Thomas, 2/4/20 Upsilon (Illinois) Stephen Trahey, 8/1/19 Chi (Stetson) Newell Hope, 5/19/20 Bryan Lauer, 10/11/19 Psi (Cornell) Samuel Alessi, 7/5/20 Michael Avery, 6/2/20 David Hemstreet, 6/19/18 Willilam Hickok, 7/21/18 Omega (Purdue) Melvin Amundson, 1/25/20 David Griffiths, 9/22/20 Charles Smith, 7/27/18 Michael Vasil, 3/27/20 Alpha Alpha (Mercer) Elliot Varnum, 6/2/18 Alpha Gamma (Oklahoma) Francis Scichowski, 5/16/19 Alpha Epsilon (Florida) Roger Austin, 8/24/18 Mike Grodin, 1/1/20 Murle Harrison, 5/14/19 Jule Merkel, 2/12/19 David Mundy, 11/28/18 Charles Rigl, 12/27/19 James Ruyle, 3/27/20 Joseph Schretzmann, 8/22/20 William Seaver, 8/3/20 George Shipp, 3/30/19 Robert Stafford, 6/2/20 Alpha Zeta (Oregon State) Gary Schaertl, 7/14/18 Alpha Eta (Samford) Joshua Fuller, 6/10/20 Barry Love, 8/27/19 Alpha Theta (Michigan State) William Cleary, 4/1/20 Joseph Herdus, 6/19/20 Alpha Iota (Auburn) Kenneth Clemons, 9/13/18 Charles Flynn, 10/29/19 Otis Marshall, 6/27/19 Gene Parsons, 8/21/19

Alpha Mu (Penn State) Philip Buriak, 8/2/18 Robert Kooker, 7/30/18 Anthony Zeme, 5/13/20 Alpha Nu (Ohio State) Kush Patel, 5/27/20 Alpha Xi (St. John's) Rino Nori, 5/27/20 Alpha Omicron (Iowa State) Keith Bader, 2/17/20 Joe Legg, 9/22/19 Richard Limbeck, 7/22/19 Joseph Linney, 9/2/20 Patrick Ryan, 7/17/20 Alpha Rho (West Virginia) Robert Todd, 3/16/20 Alpha Sigma (Tennessee) Geon Bae, 9/11/19 Robert Gracy, 2/13/19 Alpha Upsilon (Drexel) Martin Burrows, 2/24/19 Thomas Mcginley, 11/9/19 Walter Wise, 4/6/19

Beta Eta (Florida State) cont.

Johnny Guy, 5/6/20 Peter Kalmes, 1/24/19 Rick Lester, 7/28/19 Breece Mccray, 3/25/20 Kris Postlmayr, 3/5/20 George Sheldon, 8/23/18 Beta Iota (Toledo) Robert Barshel, 4/29/20 Sherman Hawley, 7/11/20 Kenneth Herman, 7/1/18 Richard Perry, 7/20/19 Beta Kappa (Georgia State) Lawrence Cooper, 10/14/19 Charles Munhall, 8/8/19 Beta Lambda (Tampa) Wade Birch, 6/6/20 John Wolfe, 4/26/20 Beta Omicron (Northwestern State) Larkin Cathey, 1/20/20 Dennis Clarkston, 9/11/19 Ronald Knott, 6/26/19 John Mctyre, 5/4/20 Larry Rice, 7/22/18

Alpha Phi (Illinois Tech) John Wheeler, 9/11/18

Beta Sigma (Northern Illinois) John Kincaid, 8/3/19 Charles Middleton, 1/8/20

Alpha Chi (Miami) Frank Kyttle, 10/29/19

Beta Tau (Valdosta) Richard Mallory, 8/18/18

Alpha Psi (Indiana) Lionel Smith, 11/9/20

Beta Upsilon (Virginia) Robert Bozarth, 11/26/19

Alpha Omega (Oregon) Robert Dempsey, 8/23/19 Pieter Knottenbelt, 2/1/19 Ronald Nugent, 8/13/20 Robert Potts, 4/20/19

Beta Phi (East Carolina) Joseph Blanks, Jr., 10/19/20 Tommy Hicks, 2/11/20 Harold Jolly, 11/26/18 Bruce Mclamb, 12/5/19

Beta Alpha (NJIT) John Mcdonough, 4/20/20 Joseph Moran, 11/29/19 Raymond Spinelli, 5/31/19

Gamma Alpha (West Alabama) Danny Carrier, 11/24/19 George Rowland, 10/22/20

Beta Beta (Florida Southern) Hung Dao, 1/27/20 William Mclain, 2/2/20 Edwin Morgan, 10/7/20 Beta Gamma (Louisville) Carl Lindeman, 11/9/18 Beta Epsilon (Missouri) Nicholas Sauer, 10/8/19 Beta Eta (Florida State) Stephen Botts, 2/26/19 Joseph Davidson, 1/17/20

Gamma Gamma (Troy) Henry Boudin, 10/30/18 Andrew Brewer, 2/23/20 Danny Hawkins, 2/4/20 Larry Hornsby, 8/5/19 Gamma Epsilon (Western Carolina) James Reece, 4/4/20 Gamma Zeta (West Virginia Tech) Kenneth Patrick, 11/18/18 Gamma Eta (Athens) James Sandlin, 9/18/18

Gamma Theta (UNC - Wilmington) Epsilon Pi (Virginia Commonwealth) Michael Mason, 11/13/19 David Martin, 11/16/20 James Turner, 1/19/19 Epsilon Rho (Lenoir-Rhyne) Gamma Kappa (Georgia Southern) Taylor Welch, 7/23/20 Martin NeSmith, 11/17/20 Epsilon Omega (Texas Tech) Gamma Rho (Lander) Elmer Arrieta, 6/16/18 Russell Fleming, 8/29/19 Zeta Gamma (North Dakota) Gamma Tau (North Texas) Ian Gust, 12/1/19 Curtis Skeen, 10/1/19 Robert Welvaert, 4/5/20 Gamma Phi (South Alabama) Gaither Chastang, 11/18/19

Zeta Epsilon (George Mason) Varun Srivastav, 11/11/20

Gamma Psi (Augusta) John Sweat, 6/26/20

Zeta Theta (Texas) Edward Summers, 9/13/20

Delta Zeta (Appalachian State) Christopher Pearce, 2/24/20

Zeta Tau (Barton) Michael Fukuchi, 1/9/20

Delta Eta (Morehead State) Jacob Megois, 10/19/20

Eta Gamma (CU - Boulder) Kyle Leventhal, 7/5/20

Delta Lambda (UNC - Charlotte) Leon Therrien, 6/21/18

Eta Theta (San Francisco) Merak Melikian, 2/4/20

Delta Omicron (Nicholls State) Charles Lejeune, 5/17/20

Eta Iota (Christopher Newport) Nathan Roberts, 6/17/18

Delta Psi (Texas - Arlington) John Vaughan, 4/6/20

Eta Kappa (SUNY - Plattsburgh) Joseph Manalang, 6/1/20

Delta Omega (Texas A&M) Charlie Kizer, 8/27/18 Brian Robertson, 6/27/18 Thomas Smitherman, 11/12/20 Donald Stroud, 4/15/20

Eta Lambda (Brockport) Ryan Giglia, 7/7/20 Theta Alpha (Southern Mississippi) Curtis Dumal, 12/10/19

Epsilon Delta (Auburn - Montgomery) Theta Delta (Florida International) Tracy Patterson, 7/8/18 Bryant Fisher, 10/31/20 Robert Rocheleau, 9/2/19 Nicolas Hinostroza, 1/18/20 Jeffrey Vinzant, 7/28/20 Marnix Ross, 5/7/20 Epsilon Epsilon Iota Rho (Western Illinois) William Watson, 2/14/20 Drew Raymond, 5/5/19 Epsilon Zeta (Central Arkansas) Iota Tau (Rutgers) David Johnston, 9/22/19 Cory Aufiero, 10/1/18 Epsilon Eta (Winthrop) Kappa Omicron (Connecticut) Donald Zimmerman, 3/7/20 Jake Beddoe, 5/27/20 Epsilon Iota (UNC - Greensboro) Daniel Lineback, 9/8/20

Please contact us at

Epsilon Kappa (Southern Poly) John Thompson, 3/10/19 Epsilon Mu (Bradley) William Furling, 11/17/18 Luke Terranova, 10/29/18

alumniservices@pikapp.org

to update us on other alumni and passings.

Never have I met a more beautiful and elegant woman with such pure love and kindness for all. A true angel on earth and now in heaven. – Denise Nelson

E

YOU CAN DO SOMETHING

EXCEPTIONAL UNCOMMON IN THIS

YEAR...

J O I N U S A N D G I V E O N 12.10.2020

HALL OF FAME & MR. PI KAPPA PHI

2 0 2 0 H A L L O F FA M E I N D U C T E E

Durward w. Owen DURWARD W. OWEN, Xi (Roanoke) is perhaps most wellknown for his 35 years of service as Pi Kappa Phi’s Executive Director, but that doesn’t begin to do justice to his outstanding commitment to Pi Kappa Phi and the interfraternal world.

A leader among leaders, Owen served as president of two major interfraternal organizations — the Fraternity Executives Association and the Fraternity Communications Association. He is credited with the creation of the risk management association FIPG, and the Fraternity Risk Management Trust, lending his name to its annual risk management training for fraternity and sorority life professionals.

Throughout Pi Kappa Phi’s history, many men have been initiated under the leadership of Owen, which included a tumultuous period during the Vietnam War. If Durward has taught us anything, and he has certainly taught us more than we could ever thank him for, it is the perseverance of Pi Kappa Phi’s resilient leadership and values.

During his tenure as Executive Director, he oversaw the first Pi Kapp College in 1959 (now Pi Kapp College for Emerging Leaders), the first Archon/Vice Archon Training (now Pi Kapp College for Chapter Officers), the incorporation of Pi Kappa Phi Properties, the creation of the first Council of Archons, worked with Thomas Sayre in the creation of PUSH (later to be renamed The Ability Experience), brought the Nu Phi society to fruition, and created the Mr. Pi Kappa Phi Award, which he received in 2006.

Owen is in a class of his own when it comes to his successes and accomplishments as a fraternity executive. We are eternally grateful for all that he has done to care for and build the interfraternity industry, Pi Kappa Phi, and the impact that you’ve made on thousands of brothers as Executive Director and Executive Director Emeritus. 

90 YEARS YOUNG

Durward W. Owen celebrated his 90th birthday this year on August 30th. The Pi Kappa Phi Foundation would like to recognize these donors who gave in Durward's honor.

Andrew Glenn Aspinwall Ellis Sherwood Banks, Jr. Thomas E. Berk Jerry Thomas Brewer Thomas Lee Carter Robert Albert Cione William Whittier Dicks David Michael Donathan

Alan Patrick Duesterhaus Ralph Shell Foster, Jr. Anders William Hall Tommy K. Hartwell Thomas Earl Joiner James A. Krucher Ryan Michael Lugabilhl Jack Raymond McDonald

James Garrison Pritchett, Jr. Frank Maynard Ryll, Jr. Walter Keith Sheppard Jay Joseph Stuckel Thomas Philip Tappy Denise Nelson

The Ability Experience would like to thank Nathan Gourd and Regina Moody for a gift made to them in honor of Durward.

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The notice of Connie’s death in the Charlotte Observer, accompanied by her beautiful, smiling face in the photograph, captured so much of the Connie we knew and taught us much we didn’t know. – Janet and Dale Sarjeant

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John Andrews SERVING AS A DELTA DELTA (Truman State) Chapter Archon, Area Governor, National President, and Chairman of the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation, among other roles for Pi Kappa Phi, John Andrews has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to servant leadership and has been integral in the creation of uncommon opportunities for Pi Kappa Phi’s membership.

Upon college graduation, John reorganized and renamed the housing corporation. He led a strategic planning process property acquisition capital campaign culminating in the construction of a chapter house in 1993.

As the Chairman of the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation, Andrews chaired the largest and most successful fundraising campaign

in our organization's history, raising over nine million dollars.

He then went on as the leading impetus for the Make Your Mark planned giving campaign, urging brothers to recognize the Fraternity in a legacy gift. To date, the campaign has 13 million dollars in expectant gifts from 141 brothers and their families.

During 30 years in national leadership roles, John is proud of little traditions and accomplishments like Durward Owen coffee mugs, supreme chapter challenge coins, staff 401Ks and OmegaFi contract.

Andrews is the ultimate example of the service-oriented leaders that Pi Kappa Phi seeks to develop, and is emblematic of the value of lifelong commitment, cementing his legacy as 2020’s Mr. Pi Kappa Phi. 

2 0 2 0 H A L L O F FA M E I N D U C T E E

Kelley A. Bergstrom KELLEY A. BERGSTROM, Alpha Omicron (Iowa State), is one of the most renowned philanthropists of Pi Kappa Phi’s membership. He not only lends his name to Pi Kappa Phi’s National Headquarters, the Kelley A. Bergstrom Leadership Center, but additionally to the Kelley A. Bergstrom Real Estate Center at the University of Florida, where he received his MBA. Bergstrom was initiated as the 386th member of the Alpha Omicron Chapter in 1961. He has had a distinguished career in real estate, including serving as the CEO and President of JMB Properties Company,

one of the world’s largest real estate investment and management companies.

Following his successful tenure at JMB Properties, Kelley started his own company, Bergstrom Investment Management which he continues to lead very successfully today with his daughter Allison.

Kelley is an outstanding mentor, brother and friend, and Pi Kappa Phi is appreciative of the talent and treasure he gives to non-profit and educational organizations across the country. It is our honor to announce Kelley Bergstrom as one of our 2020 Hall of Fame inductees. 

She was always so nice to us ‘young guys’ at interfraternal gatherings, even when we were not lucky enough to be members of ‘her’ fraternity. I was

always better for the conversation when she would visit with a Kappa Alpha! – David Carico

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HALL OF FAME & MR. PI KAPPA PHI

2020 M R. P I K A P PA P H I

FRATERNIT Y SUPPORTS THE FSPAC

Thomas Carter with Representative Virginia Foxx.

THE EXPERIENCE that fraternity and sorority members have during their collegiate years can be formative and impactful on their futures. As a member of the Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee (FSPAC), an organization dedicated to preserving that experience, Pi Kappa Phi utilizes volunteers, students, and fundraising to advocate for the Greek Legislative Agenda.

The FSPAC exists to protect the Greek life experience that includes defending it through legislation at the state and federal level. They openly state that the goal is to “amplify Greek voices on the issues that affect your experience.

One of Pi Kappa Phi’s FSPAC representatives, US Ambassador & Major General, USAFR (Ret) Thomas L. Carter, Gamma Delta (Memphis), has been an integral played an integral part in the fraternity’s involvement and seeks ways that other interested brothers can get involved. In 2015, Past National President Allen O. Woody, Xi (Roanoke) got Carter involved with the FSPAC.

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Since then, Pi Kappa Phi has been amongst the top three donor organizations to the FSPAC. Voluntary donations from our members raised nearly $26,000 this year.

Carter is accompanied by Jerr Rosenbaum, Delta Alpha (Virginia Tech) on the FSPAC Board. Next year, Pi Kappa Phi will gain two more seats on the board due to the amount of fundraising that has been done this year.

The fundraising done by each member organization goes to promote the Greek Legislative Agenda.

The three main groups that give and support the FSPAC are individuals and corporations, students and alumni/ alumnae, and persons from both political affiliations. Corporate money is legally prohibited from giving direct support for a candidate’s election campaign, and student dues are not used to directly support candidates.

The recipients of the money go to Senators, House Representatives and candidates that are pro-Greek life, Greek organization alumnae/alumni while other non-greek peoples can receive funds, and leaders who have jurisdiction over Greek life policies. They know that “we are the only PAC and voice for our issues, and those are the only issues we consider in deciding who to support.”

The PAC supports bipartisanship and tracks the affiliation of all elected officials regardless of their political affiliation. In the 2020 election cycle, their giving was 51% Republican and 49% Democrat.

The priorities of the FSPAC are: supporting freedom of association rights on campus for all single-sex organizations which are not limited to greek organizations, providing COVID-19 relief, passing federal anti-hazing laws, and equalizing the tax law for all not-forprofit student housing.

This year, members primarily focused on the Harvard lawsuit, the Abolish Greek Life Movement, and Title IX reform.

The Collegiate Freedom of Association Act protects every student’s right to join a single-sex group if they desire to do so.

The Anti-Hazing Legislation that they support would hold individuals, groups and schools accountable for misconduct by making it easier for students and parents to see which groups are involved in activities

that jeopardize the health and safety of their members. Currently, there are two pieces of federal legislation pending in Congress which are The REACH Act and the END ALL Hazing Act. Families who have been affected by hazing are working with the FSPAC to help pass these bills at the federal level and similar ones on a state level. The FSPAC favors candidates who support anti-hazing legislation.

COVID-19 has brought new priorities to the forefront of the legislative agenda.

They are working hard to get legislation changed to allow house corporations to access the Paycheck Protection Program which will keep operations running and gain liability shield coverage to protect student housing that reopens.

Every year, with the exception of 2020, student members and alumni from both the North American Interfraternity Conference and the National Panhellenic Conference participate in the Annual Capitol Hill Visits. Pi Kappa Phi sent two student delegates in 2019, Jordan Blades, Nu (UNL), and Brady Smith, Iota Rho (Western Illinois). In addition to student lobbyists, two to four student members every year get elected to sit on the board as representatives in order to have a student perspective in all discussions.

“The annual Capitol Hill Visits were an amazing opportunity for him to stand up and advocate for what he believes in and cares about,” Smith said. “The ability to engage with civic leaders help forge relationships and connections that will stand the test of time.”

Having students involved can dispel negative stereotypes of greek life by keeping our organization’s interests at the forefront of our leaders’ minds.

“This experience reaffirmed to me that it was important to protect single-sex organizations,” Smith said. “I did not realize the hazing problem was as bad as it was until I was more educated about the topics and legislation at hand. It was eye-opening to see how at risk we were and how big of an impact this legislation makes for us to maintain our status as single-sex organizations to operate.”

Any brother can get involved with the FSPAC. To learn more, members can contact Tom Carter by emailing him at tom@tlcarter.com.  pikapp.org/news

PHINAL THOUGHT

“I AM NOT AFRAID TO ADMIT THAT NORMALLY I STRUGGLE WITH ONLINE LEARNING, AND THIS FALL SEMESTER WITH COVID HAS BEEN NO EXCEPTION. I AM VERY BLESSED TO HAVE ALL OF MY PI KAPP BROTHERS BY MY SIDE TO HELP KEEP ME FOCUSED AND DISCIPLINED WITH THE TRANSITION TO ONLINE LEARNING. IF IT WAS NOT FOR THEM, I WOULD DEFINITELY NOT BE WHERE I AM TODAY!” – Jake Adamczyk, Vice Archon, Zeta Gamma (North Dakota)

PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY 2015 Ayrsley Town Boulevard, Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28273

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ST. LOUIS, MO A PATH TO NEW VENTURES

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