FROM THE DESK OF DURWARD W. OWEN

Tucked inside boxes, slipped between binder pages and catalogued methodically, Durward collected his thoughts and words the way a historian collects artifacts. More than just pieces of paper, these were the words Durward returned to, philosophies he lived by and sometimes, the words he was gracious enough to share with others.

Some are handwritten on worn index cards, saved across decades. Others were spoken at Fraternity events or published in the Star & Lamp. Together, these preserved words paint a portrait of a leader whose wisdom shaped not only a Fraternity, but generations of brothers.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED, WHAT I LEAVE BEHIND

In his final interview as executive director in 1994, Durward reflected on the people, moments and lessons that shaped his decades of service to Pi Kappa Phi. These remarks offer a window into his humility, humor and humanity; a man who never stopped believing in the potential of every brother.

Q: On the member Pi Kappa Phi should be most proud of

A: “The newest initiate, because in him there is hope of things better yet to come.”

Q: On managing the Fraternity while Simon Fogarty and Harry Mixson were alive

A: “They made no effort to direct the Fraternity... I loved them dearly and was blessed to have had the opportunity of knowing them. However, my secret is, I would like to have known Alex Kroeg. If he had been around, the two of us would have made a wonderful team.”

Q: On what Pi Kappa Phi gave him in return for his 35 years of service

A: “Leadership skills. Friends. Management skills. Friends. Self-respect and confidence. Friends. Nationwide network. Friends. Changed (improved) attitude about people with disabilities. Friends. Better understanding of human behavior. Friends.”