The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2016 by Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity

Fall 2016

Volume 99 number 2

Brother Vince Dooley Honored

Live Your Passion

www.phikaps.org

1986 02

The Temple • Fall 2016

ABOUT THE PHOTO Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity Anthony R. Zinnante (University of Houston, ‘62) (right) presents a fraternity coat of arms plaque to Jonathan J. Brant, executive director of the National lnterfraternity Conference (NIC). Phi Kappa Theta, which rejoined the NIC in 1984, originally became a member of the conference in 1916. Shown in the photo (from left) are: Doug Dilling (Kansas State University, ‘84) acting executive director; Brant; Zinnante.

ON THE COVER Brother Vince Dooley (University of Georgia, ‘A), receives the 2016 Man of Achievement award at the 6th Annual Atlanta Phi Kappa Theta Alumni Reception.

CONTENTS FEATURES

THE JOY OF COMPETITION

THANK YOU

Trine Phi Kaps and The Special Olympics Spring Track Invitational

Hear from Brother Kyle O’Malley about his experience at #PKTQV16

FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE Hofstra Brother attends first presidential debate of 2016

IN THIS ISSUE President’s Note .............................. 04

Chapter Reports ............................... 22

Vince Dooley Named 2016 MOA ...... 06

Wuerl Fund Established ..................... 28

Phi Kaps Attend World Youth Day ..... 14

Return to the Motherland ................... 32

Brother Lightner’s Gift ...................... 19

Expansion Update ............................. 37

The Search For Brother Cau ............ 20

New Wave of Phi Kap Musicians ........ 38 The Temple • Fall 2016

DEAR BROTHERS

Relatives: If your son is no longer in college and not living at home, please forward his permanent address to: Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268 Fall 2016 Volume 99, Number 2 Phone: 317.872.9934 Change Service Requested Printed in the USAEDITOR MANAGING

Keith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06) Postmaster: If undeliverable, please send notice on Form 3579 immediately to Phi Kappa Theta, COPY 3901 WestEDITOR 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268

Gregory E. Stein (CCNY, ‘70) Name:

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Please check one: Kelby Dolan (Millikin Univ., ‘A) New Gallagher address. (Hofstra Univ., ‘17) Damian Addressee is deceased. Date‘78) of death: Kathy Jonas (Indiana Univ., is noof longer at this‘85) address. Jeff Addressee Jowdy (Univ. Georgia, Unable to provide a forwarding Stephen S. Lee (Lewis Univ., ‘10)address. Gabe Newbern (Univ. of Georgia, ‘17) Address: Kyle O’Malley (Washington State Univ., ‘17) Nicholas R. Scalera (Seton Hall Univ., ‘63) City/State/Zip: Joe Siebert (Univ. of Alaska Anchorage,‘17) Home Phone:

BOARD OF TRUSTEES E-mail: President Larry F. Dorocke (Purdue Univ., ‘68) Vice President Adrian Gonzalez (Univ. of Texas-Austin, ‘78) Treasurer Joe E. Przybyla (Lewis Univ., ‘01) Secretary B. Ross Walters (Univ. of Louisiana-Lafayette, ‘02) Trustees Dan Bureau (University of New Hampshire, ‘95) Doug Dilling (Kansas State Univ., ‘84) Max Jasper (Univ. of San Diego, ‘11) Nathan G. Rues (Missouri Univ. of S&T, ‘02) UGAC Chairman Jon B. Blanton (Trine Univ., ‘17) UGAC Vice Chairman Chad B. Wachsmann (Colorado State Univ., ‘16) EXECUTIVE OFFICES 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268 317.872.9934 executiveoffices@phikaps.org www.phikaps.org EXECUTIVE OFFICES STAFF Executive Vice President Robert W. Riggs, CAE (RPI, ‘02) Director of Finance and Operations Sarah A. Everhart (Indiana Wesleyan Univ., ‘05) Director of Brand Management Keith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06)

Deceased members’ names should be entered on the roll of the Chapter Eternal. In case of death, please clip this section and send to the above address.

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Or e-mail any of this information to: executiveoffices@phikaps.org

I cannot believe that I am already into my second year as President of the National Fraternity. I don’t know where the time has Chapter of Initiation: Graduation Year: gone. I think that we hit a Home Run with our Quo Vadis in Phoenix. Notwithstanding the temptation of a beautiful waterfront park which adjoined our facilities, the brothers dedicated themselves to working on several projects that will make a positive social impact on society. I could not be more proud of all those that attended this conference. This coming January, I’ve asked the Strategic Planning Committee to reconvene to continue its work as we look forward to the Fraternity’s goals for 2020. The results of this work will be reported in the next Temple. In mid-September, I attended the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation meetings in San Diego. A group of us was able to visit with the Fraternity’s immediate Past-President, Father Owen Mullen, who has been ailing. I am sad to report, however, that Father Mullen passed away on October 19, 2016 in his San Diego home. Before his passing he sent his best wishes to all of you. The National Foundation continues to make great strides in positioning itself to support the educational initiatives of the Fraternity. The Foundation is looking to hold meetings and alumni updates in Florida and Louisiana in the coming months. Please be on the lookout for invitations to these events in these locations as all brothers are more than welcome to attend. We’re looking forward to a big turnout at each event. The Biennial Convention will be held in Washington D.C. from July 28 through 31, 2017. Please start making plans to attend. We will be providing programming for both the collegiate and alumni brothers and encourage all alumni to attend a weekend full of education, brotherhood and leadership. In addition, we hope to arrange visits to several sites in Washington of special interest to all Phi Kaps. Look for more details on the Convention in the next Temple and upcoming communication from the Fraternity. I also have just returned from the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the re-chartering of our Washington State University Chapter in Pullman, Washington. This Chapter has won the Founder’s Cup the last two years. It was a true pleasure meeting with the collegiate brothers, associate members and alumni board and alumni. This Chapter has done an amazing job in re-inventing itself the last few years and provides a shining example to all of us. Congratulations on a job well done!!! I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our National Convention in Washington D.C. in July, 2017 and upcoming regional leadership conferences. In the Bonds of the Phi, the Kappa and the Theta,

Director of Development Benjamin M. DeLost (Eastern Illinois Univ., ‘10) Director of Advocacy and Outreach Stephen S. Lee (Lewis Univ., ‘10) Director of Member Experience Isaiah P. Adona (Washington State Univ., ‘12) Accounting Clerk Bill T. Ryan (Indiana Univ., ‘79)

The Temple • Fall Spring 2016 2016

Lawrence F. Dorocke, (Purdue University, ‘68) Board of Trustees President

THE TEMPLE is published twice a year as an educational journal for Phi Kappa Theta brothers, family and friends. A digital copy is available online at www.phikaps.org/temple The submission deadline is March 1 and September 1. Brothers and friends are encouraged to provide clippings, releases or notices about themselves or any aspect of Phi Kappa Theta for consideration. All submissions become property of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. Pictures cannot be returned. Letters to the Editor will be printed at the discretion of the editor. Copyright ÂŠ 2016

Why Connect? Now more than ever we are able to connect with each other. Through Social Media, Email and more, we want Brothers to not only connect with each other, but connect with Phi Kaps from all over the country. Learn more about what Brothers from coast-to-coast are up to. Stay connected, get inspired.

SOCIAL MEDIA phikaps.org/ FACEBOOK

@phikappatheta phikaps.org/ LINKEDIN

phikaps.org/ YOUTUBE

phikapsoffical

phikaps.org/ phikaps.org/ INSTAGRAM ISSUU

EMAIL: executiveoffices@phikaps.org

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Unspectacular Preparation Gets Spectacular Results By Gabe Newbern, University of Georgia, ‘17

The Phi Kappa Theta Foundation is honored to announce our 2016 Man of Achievement, Vince Dooley (University of Georgia, ‘A). Brother Dooley was initiated as an alumnus in 1966 at the Trappist Monastery in Conyers, GA. This year’s Man of Achievement Reception took place in the melting pot of Atlanta, Georgia with fifteen chapters represented. Vince Dooley is a legend in college football, both for his outstanding achievements on the football field and his strength of character in every aspect of his life. Despite the odds and the adversity given to him during his first few years of coaching, Dooley stayed strong, letting his faith and strength of character guide him to victory. Vince Dooley saw 25 years as head football coach, and earned the distinction of being the most successful coach in Georgia history. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs had a career record of 201-7710, making him the 9th coach in NCAA

Trophy winner (Herschel Walker, 1982), a Maxwell Award Winner (Walker, 1982), an Outland Award Winner (Bill Stanfill, 1968), 40 First Team All-Americans and 10 Academic All-Americans. Vince Dooley served as head football coach at UGA from December 1963 to Jan. 1, 1989 and as Director of Athletics from 1979-2004, The University of Georgia has since honored Vince Dooley with the dedication of the Vince Dooley Athletic Complex on November 29, 2008. With this, a special statue and a garden were built to commemorate his accomplishments. Truly, his impact on the University of Georgia is felt even today. On this day, however, Vince Dooley was honored not only for his legendary status on the football field but for the honor and conviction with which he has conducted himself throughout his life. Vince Dooley was not always as respected as he is today. He earned his place in the hearts and minds of football

“Prepare yourself to be lucky. Prepare yourself to take advantage of opportunity.” – Vince Dooley, University of Georgia, ‘A Division I history to win over 200 games. Furthermore, the Dawgs won a national championship in 1980 along with six SEC titles under his direction. He took his teams to 20 bowl games and coached a Heisman

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fans everywhere. Rick Maggiore’s introduction allowed those present to live through Vince Dooley’s coaching career from a different viewpoint: from a freshman at the University of Georgia the year Vince

Dooley was hired. Before his hire, seven of the past nine seasons were losing seasons. Georgia fans were desperate, but the hire of an assistant coach from Auburn University was met with a large dose of skepticism, as noted by Maggiore by the popularity of bumper stickers that read, “Vince Who?” Despite this skepticism, Dooley persevered and proved himself by consistently winning throughout his seasons as head coach. Soon, the bumper stickers disappeared, and he won over the Bulldawg Nation and cemented his legacy. Dooley’s legacy ultimately stemmed from his work ethic. During his speech, he had a word of advice to those still going through college. “Prepare yourself to be lucky. Prepare yourself to take advantage of opportunity.” This is not saying that one should just wait on their lucky break, but instead, when that lucky break arrives, they should be ready and prepared for it, practiced and ready to take on the opportunity. He also recounted

Know an Alumnus worthy of the Man of Achievement Award, the Kennedy Award or the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award? Nominate a Brother now: WWW.PHIKAPS.ORG/ FNDAWARDS

Brother Vince Dooley (University of Georgia, ‘A) (second from left), honored with the 2016 Man of Achievement award at the 6th Annual Atlanta Phi Kappa Theta Alumni Reception. Left to right: Jeff Jowdy (University of Georgia, ‘85), Dooley, Rick Maggiore (University of Georgia, ‘68), Kevin Lampe (Western Illinois University, ‘83).

how important hard work is in the process of making something great. “It takes a lot of unspectacular preparation to get spectacular results,” Dooley remarked. Many hard, thankless hours went into every single game, but their results are what truly indicate the amount of time spent beforehand to perfect his craft. In the words of David Bing, an All-American at Syracuse, Pro Basketball Player and Mayor of Detroit, Dooley urged us all to remember “the 5 P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.” Ultimately, it is up to the individual to hone

his skillset in such a way that he can take advantage of the opportunities that will inevitably be presented to him. Dooley considers himself lucky to have received his title of head coach, and was prepared to do all that he could to succeed, and, in doing so, cemented himself as one of the legends of football history. The entire reception has been posted to Youtube! To experience the reception in full and to hear the full speech of our 2016 Man of Achievement, visit: www.phikaps. org/dooley16

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PHI KAPPA THETA BIENNIAL CONVENTION 2017 JULY 28 - 31

WASHINGTON D.C. #PKTDC17

BE ENGAGED, GET INVOLVED

WWW.PHIKAPXP.COM 08

The Temple â&#x20AC;¢ Fall 2016

The Joy of Competition Trine Phi Kaps and The Special Olympics Spring Track Invitational By Kathy Jonas Indiana University, ‘78

The gold-medal winners at the recent Rio Olympics had one thing in common: despite their varying nationalities, they all had huge grins on their faces. Wouldn’t it be great if the last place finishers were as happy? The universal smiles of Special Olympians are part of what fuels members of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity at Trine University in Angola, Indiana, who have helped organize the Steuben County Special Olympics Track Invitational each spring for more than 20 years. Watching a six-year-old boy cross the finish line with a huge smile on his face is a moment Jon Blanton (Trine University, ‘16) will never forget. “I wish I had a picture of that,” Blanton says of

Watching a six-year-old boy cross the finish line with a huge smile on his face is a moment Jon Blanton (Trine University, ‘16) will never forget.

meet accommodating more than 100 participants and lots of family members and fans there to cheer on the athletes. “The whole day ran smooth because of the commitment of the membership,” says Peterson. “As a parent who has attended many activities, this was one of the best. The men represented Phi Kappa Theta with honor and reinforced the positive values of college fraternities.” Blanton, a senior majoring in design and engineering technology, says the fraternity has been involved with the event almost as long as he has been alive. Last spring, 43 active members (95 percent) participated, with help from the Theta Phi Alpha sorority.

“The men represented Phi Kappa Theta with honor and reinforced the positive values of college fraternities.” – Donald Craig Peterson, Special Olympics the boy’s expression. “It was joy. He was the happiest kid in the world. For one day, these athletes feel like any other person who wants to be an athlete.” He and his fraternity brothers take great pride in the service work associated with organizing the track invitational each year. For more than two decades, through 20 graduation ceremonies, Phi Kapa Theta has provided continuity and longevity to the one-day track meet at Trine. What’s not surprising is that the motto of the fraternity – “Give expecting nothing thereof – is taken so literally. Members meet regularly with organizers ensuring that the event is run professionally and with compassion and understanding. The hard work and dedication of chapter members was noted by Donald Craig Peterson, of Indianapolis, who brought a team of five to the spring event for the first time. “The commitment of the Phi Kappa Theta members was evident from our arrival. Their letters were everywhere!” says Peterson, who had two children of his own participating. “Each of the track and field events was run professionally while ensuring the dignity of each Special Olympics athlete,” adds Peterson, who has been to a few of these events statewide and nationally and knows the difficulty of organizing a day-long

The fraternity works closely with Jan Wilson, Steuben County’s Special Olympics coordinator. She’s collaborated with Phi Kappa Theta for more than 10 years, giving the fraternity a list of what needs to be done. She says 125 athletes, coaches and family members took part in the meet, which is run according to strict rules set forth by the Special Olympics organization. Wilson says one of the most satisfying moments for her is when an athlete recognizes a volunteer from the previous year. “It makes a difference,” she says. Sean Carroll, advisor to the fraternity and Associate Dean of the College of Engineering and Business at Trine, says about six of last year’s volunteers at the spring event were track and field athletes, so they knew exactly what they were doing when organizing it. The new guys are always a bit unsure, but the older guys love it: The Olympians are having one of the best days of their year, and it’s a joy to help out.” The annual event also fits well within the fraternity’s vision of “inspiring confidence through life experiences” by not only lifting up the athletes but the volunteers who graduate with experience putting together a complex event while at the same time enriching the participants.

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Project Minembwe and AHNH desire to design and develop a soccer field, like the one pictured, into a multi-purpose facility that will be used to promote and protect the health of the people of Minembwe.

Live Your Passion Brother Taylor Loutsis and Project Minembwe

“L

ive your passion.” Said Taylor Loutsis (ASU, ‘15), during his acceptance presentation at Quo Vadis for being the recipient to The Most Outstanding Young Alumnus Award of 2016.

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architecture, industrial design, engineering and graphic design to work on improving the housing for refugees in West Rwanda. The project, Erasing Boundaries, formed a relationship with a not-for- profit 501(c)3 organization, Africa Health New Horizons (AHNH), based out of Phoenix, AZ and founded by Dr. Modeste Kigabo, who has experience with projects in Congo and Rwanda (www.africahealthnewhorizons. org). After graduating from ASU and the completion of Erasing Boundaries, Taylor moved to San Francisco to work for an architecture firm, Valerio Dewalt Train Associates (VDTA), where he has been

of the soccer field, and to form a space for organizing the now 32 soccer teams that have been formed between the six tribes. Project Minembwe is the first phase of a transformational initiative that was established to foster reconciliation and peace among youth groups, tribes and the nation. AHNH is working collaboratively with Coastal Laboratories and other partners to design and develop a multipurpose facility and soccer field that will be used to promote and protect the health of the people of Minembwe. The facility is projected to include a community center, clinic, and classrooms to further the education and talent that

“It is a beautiful feeling to live your passion by helping those near and far.” – Taylor Loutsis, ASU, ‘15

Loutsis started his undergrad at Washington State University, where he pledged Phi Kappa Theta, Washington Alpha Delta Chapter, but it wasn’t until he transferred to the visual communication program at Arizona State University, when his discovery for purpose and passion was found. His experience at ASU allowed for an excessive amount of exploring, with one summer earning an artist residency in New York City, nine months working and studying in Singapore, followed by another summer working with a design studio in Germany. While in Germany, summer 2014, Taylor read an Associated Press article covering 50 million displaced people in the world, which connected the dots for the topic of his senior thesis. The article, paired with Taylor’s desire to work with multidisciplinary teams, brought him to build a team of students in anthropology,

designing graphics and installations for Google, PayPal, Adobe, VMware and residential housing. As of August, Taylor has relocated to New York City, after accepting a position with his dream studio, 2x4, where he will be designing museum spaces, runways and retail spaces around the world. While residing in San Francisco, the team from Erasing Boundaries, now organized under the name Coastal Laboratories, due to the multidisciplinary team collaborating from coast-to-coast between San Francisco, Phoenix, Seattle and New York, continued working with AHNH. Coastal Laboratories was invited to join AHNH on a trip in summer 2015 to Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of Congo to study a potential project, Project Minembwe. During the trip, Coastal Laboratories was introduced to the people of Minembwe, located in East Congo, in the South Kivu Region. Over the past six decades, the region of Minembwe experienced 30 years of unstable dictatorship, two genocides and was the epicenter of what historians call the ‘African World War’. Recently, as of 2014, the violence in Minembwe has reached a state of peace through the introduction of organized soccer by Dr. Kigabo. Soccer has removed hostility and healed relationships between members of the six regional tribes. While visiting Minembwe, the birthplace of Dr. Kigabo, Coastal Laboratories observed a need to improve the current conditions

lives in Minembwe. Using Asset-Based Community Development strategies, the AHNH and Coastal Laboratories team will incubate, develop and promote the skills and talents of youth and other community leaders to sustain the work of building a vibrant and healthy Minembwe. “There are so many question marks,” Loutsis said. “But we’ve gained the trust of the community of Minembwe, and AHNH and Coastal Laboratories have formed a deep relationship and passion for ensuring this campus is brought to life for the people of Minembwe. It is a beautiful feeling to live your passion by helping those near and far.” AHNH and Coastal Laboratories are currently working on the strategy, timeline, budget and scale for the project. To learn more, how to become involved, or help, visit: www.projectminembwe.org. Watch the full Taylor Loutsis speech from QV16 online: www.phikaps.org/ loutsis16

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Thank You An Open Letter to Those Who Believe in Investing in Servant Leaders By Kyle O’Malley, Washington State University, ‘17

There are many times we share the results of our national and regional conferences. We often share statistics like the number of attendees, the hours we volunteered and the educational topics we presented. This year, we thought we’d share that information and we’d share a letter written to us by a collegiate leader who has had the opportunity to attend a number of our programs and conferences. Brothers, There have been few times in my life I have genuinely been this proud, honored, and humble enough to have represented my

These opportunities have shaped my experience as an undergrad and are actively creating some of the building blocks for my life that follows after Washington State. As a Brotherhood, it is our goal to improve the lives of our members and I want to share with you that these experiences have simply done just that for me. I rarely am lost for words — but I can’t describe how impactful this trip has been. Not just because of the Founders Cup, but also the engaging workshops, networking with alumni and actives and being able to build a better future for our organization. As President for my Chapter, I

“These opportunities have shaped my experience as an undergrad and are actively creating some of the building blocks for my life that follows after Washington State.” – Kyle O’Malley, Washington State University, ‘17 chapter. I want to take a moment to just say thank you for allowing all of us the opportunity to attend the 2016 Quo Vadis national convention. Words can’t express how incredible this trip has been. All of you at the Executive Office, Foundation Board and fellow volunteers deserve to be thanked for planning, preparing and executing such an incredible event. Throughout my time as a Phi Kap, I have been fortunate enough to experience three regional leadership conferences, two national conventions, a national foundation board meeting and countless interactions with our brotherhood on the local, regional and national level. I have seen first-hand what our entire organization is capable of, in addition to what our fellow brothers, alumni and volunteers strive to do for our organization.

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owe each of you a very large thank you for your service. I hope you all realize that while we may not have the opportunity to change the entire world right this moment, just know you are actively changing the world around you with us. Stay fired up, continue to pursue your vision, and proud to be a Phi Kap.

Fraternally, Kyle O’Malley, President Washington State University, ‘17

Check out more images from QV2016 on the Phi Kappa Theta Facebook page: www.phikaps.org/facebook

Brother Kyle O’Malley (Washington State University, ‘17) (middle), collaborates with brothers at the 2016 Quo Vadis in Phoenix, AZ this past Summer.

Learn about the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and how QV2016 contributed: www.phikaps.org/QV16

101

Collegiate Brothers in attendance.

Alumni Brothers in attendance.

Friends and Family in attendance.

164 Total Attendees at #PKTQV16

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The Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, one of the stops Sean’s group made before heading to Kraków.

A PILGRIMAGE OF PEACE Phi Kap Brothers at World Youth Day 2016

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World Youth Day is an event organized by the Catholic Church—one which is perhaps unparalleled in its mobilization of religious youths. Since it was started by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1985, World Youth Day is observed every year at the diocese level, and has been celebrated 13 times with an international week-long pilgrimage attended by the Pope. In 1995, the concluding Papal Mass in the Philippines set the world record for most attendees at a religious event, when

5 million people arrived to worship with Pope Saint John Paul II. And in 2005, the event broke its own record, again in the Philippines, when 6 million Catholics were led in their devotion by Pope Francis. Phi Kappa Theta continues to see a resurgence in its alignment with Catholic faith. Brothers from five different chapters made the pilgrimage to Krakow, Poland. We had a chance to interview two of these brothers. 2016’s pilgrimage, the most recent,

concluded in Krakow, Poland from July 25-July 31. We spoke to two Phi Kappa Theta brothers who both made the journey to Krakow to glorify God and deepen their faith. Michael

pilgrims spent the week before World Youth Day celebrating the “Days in the Diocese” in Katowice, Poland. There the group was hosted by local families, an experience Hess called “immersive”, and also took the opportunity to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, where Polish Catholics made up a significant portion of the millions tortured and murdered under the Nazi regime.

Grealy also found the pilgrimage vitalizing, though not without its challenges. On the final evening of the week of worship, he walked with thousands of other pilgrims to a field six miles outside Krakow where Pope Francis would give the closing Mass the next morning. There, he slept in the field with all the other pilgrims. “I didn’t enjoy the walk,”

“It’s an inspiration to us to go back in our communities and start movements, not be ashamed, and confirms the fact that to be Catholic means something.” – Michael Hess, University of Wisconsin-Madison, ‘16 Hess (University of Wisconsin-Madison, ‘16) made the journey to Poland with 9 other active Phi Kappa Theta brothers and two priests from their parish who have become Alumnus Initiates. Sean Grealy (Hofstra University, ‘16) was the only Phi Kap among the group of 22 pilgrims from Long Island’s Diocese of Rockville Centre. Both men found the journey an amazing confirmation of their faith. The trip to Krakow was Hess’ second pilgrimage for World Youth Day—he also traveled to Madrid five years ago. He, the other Phi Kappa Theta brothers with him, and the rest of their group of 89

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Grealy also took the opportunity to witness Auschwitz-Birkenau during the days before World Youth Day, when he and his fellow pilgrims stayed at a seminary in Bialystok. One of the priests from Grealy’s parish is from Bialystok, so they were able to stay at his old diocese. Grealy also visited a parish in Solkoka where a Eucharistic miracle, the transmutation of the Communion host into actual human flesh, occurred in 2008. Once their pilgrimage to Krakow was complete, both brothers capitalized on Poland’s rich Catholic history and visited many of Krakow’s cathedrals to venerate the relics there and attend Masses. “Adoration was a big part of my experience,” Hess said, recounting the story of one Mass at St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow. “A priest there provided reflections and questions, and then time for silence and prayer. Those moments were one of my biggest takeaways.” Since his return from World Youth Day, Hess has attended daily Mass. “Today it’s exciting to be a Catholic because of how much the youth has come alive in the past two decades or so. A large part of that probably has to do with World Youth Day,” he said.

he admitted. “People as far as I could see were pushing and shoving. There were some real moments of discomfort. But then it gave me a chance to reflect on why we were all there, even though none of us was comfortable—we were all on our pilgrimage to glorify God. Why to go to church as a young person when everything in culture is telling you that you don’t have to or even that you shouldn’t? This event reminds all us young people that other young believers are out there too.” Both men emphasized that all young Catholics should consider a pilgrimage for World Youth Day. “It’s an inspiration to us to go back in our communities and start movements, not be ashamed, and confirms the fact that to be Catholic means something,” Hess said. Grealy noted that all faiths need similar events to engage and attract young followers who need a God to rely on. “Spirituality, whatever that means for you, is a whole facet of life a lot of people don’t address, but I think it’s detrimental to the human person to not experience it,” he said. Editor’s Note: Our Chapters at Colorado State, Nebraska and Arizona State also had brothers in attendance.

2017 RLC RECAP Recap the 2017 Regional Leadership Conferences. BIENNIAL CONVENTION 2017 More information on our 2017 Biennial Convention taking place in Washington D.C.. Mark your calendars!

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Inspire Brothers To Lead A Purposeful Life Phi Kappa Theta’s Plan For 2020

2016 marks a year of monumental change for Phi Kappa Theta. Fresh off this year’s Quo Vadis, we’re reflecting on our new vision for the fraternity to empower our members and inspire individuals to lead a purposeful life. We sat down with Larry Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68), President, and Robert Riggs (RPI, ‘02), Executive Vice President, to discuss the future of Phi Kap. What is Phi Kap’s vision to support its members? Larry (L): What we’re looking to do is find sustainable solutions to serious world issues. Many of our members have a great history of volunteering on the local level, and we’re trying to step it up and address even bigger issues as an organization. Rob (R): This summer’s program at Quo Vadis gave us a really good look into what we could be doing. We put out the sustainability issues put out by the United Nations, and we broke our attendees up into nine groups. Each one developed a solution to meet a need they were passionate about, and we chose the top four (we had a 3rd-place tie) to go ahead and fund their projects. (L): We have such a good caliber of brother here. These men went out, and they researched, and they talked to experts, and even put up webpages about their projects.

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(R): We gave them the ability to create something, and they embraced that. This is what we want to do for all of our members, down to the chapter level. We want to help them figure out what social issues they are passionate about, and we want to enable them to make a difference. This new vision has been described as a shift from an “internal” focus to an “external” one. What does that mean?

opportunity to make a difference in the world, so that should be our goal. And this also goes back to our alumni. We want to keep them engaged with us, but unless we’re doing something meaningful, they’re

“We have such an opportunity to make a difference in the world, so that should be our goal.” – Larry Dorocke, Purdue University, ‘68 (R): The challenge to change came to us from our strategic planning facilitator. We went through the goals we were using to define success: How many members can we get at our conferences? How many brothers are serving in leadership positions? How many new members on a chapter level? We realized that, even if we hit all of these goals, nobody outside the organization was going to care. (L): We need to exist for something other than ourselves. We have such an

going to have other things to do with their time. Why is 2016 the right time for this change? Why now? (L): Why not now? You know, I came on board as President about a year ago, and one of the things I really wanted to do was revisit our strategic plan. So, really, much of this was kicked off because we got together with our leadership for a strategic partnership meeting in January 2016 in Florida.

Larry Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68), President, and Robert Riggs (RPI, ‘02), Executive Vice President discuss the future of Phi Kap.

(R): When we got together to think about who we want to be, this vision was it. Part of who we are as a Fraternity is to instill the philosophy of continuous selfimprovement, at the individual level, at the chapter level, and as a whole. Putting those big ideas into visible practice has really energized our members. We’ve found a lot of momentum as we’ve been implementing this new vision. The time is just right. Would you call this new focus a change in a direction, or a return to Phi Kap’s roots?

(R): I think it’s a return to our original founding mandate as a Catholic organization. I often think about the story of the Good Samaritan. A number of individuals had the opportunity to do the right thing but ignored it. Like the Good Samaritan, so many have the opportunity to do something positive and we as Phi Kaps must take it upon ourselves to take action and make a difference. We have endless opportunity to do something impactful and good in this world. (L): What we’re doing is really the

essence of Christian beliefs. I think it is a return to our roots. Where do you see Phi Kap in 2020? (R): If we’re running on all cylinders, we’ll be actively helping our members to identify what social issues they are really passionate about, and we’ll have the resources we need to empower them and support their visions. Right now, it’s about laying the groundwork for the first part of that equation, while building a framework that gives us a resource pipeline essential

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“By 2020, the public will know us through our partnerships with other organizations who think like we do, and who want to make an impact on the world.” – Larry Dorocke, Purdue University, ‘68 to investing in the social solutions developed by our brothers. (L): And we want to collaborate. We don’t want this vision to stop and end with us. I believe by 2020, the public will know us through our partnerships with other organizations who think like we do, and who want to make an impact on the world. (R): We’re already putting together a group of leaders to talk about how we put a scalable business model around this new vision. That’s the biggest question we’re seeking to answer now.

Lakota Tow (University of Alaska Anchorage, ‘17) (left), presenting the Impact Project his Quo Vadis chapter created at the 2016 Quo Vadis in Phoenix, AZ this past summer.

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(L): Of course, we also need mentors who can take these big ideas and make them work on the chapter level. We need leaders in place who will make those grassroots changes, so that members at every chapter feel like they can produce a real business plan, and create a real solution to address the issues they’re passionate about. It will be a building process, and if we can get at least 150 of our brothers actively participating in this vision by 2020, that will be a great start.

Lightner Bequest To Help Brothers Reach Their Service Goals By Jeff Jowdy, University of Georgia, ‘85 Phi Kappa Theta Foundation President

Phi Kappa Theta Brother Henry “Hank” Lightner (Carnegie Mellon University, ‘47) was a lifelong learner whose devotion to the ideals of the Phi, the Kappa and the Theta culminated in a bequest to Phi Kappa Theta Foundation – the largest gift the Foundation has ever received, $185,388.53. “He was very proud of his college and fraternity associations, and even though, he did not boast about them. He enjoyed going to college and learning,” shares his niece Jean Haines Reistle. In recognition of his generosity, Phi Kappa Theta Foundation has established the Lightner Fund for Servant Leadership, which will provide annual funding to the Fraternity’s leadership development programs.

Henry J. Lightner passed away November 24, 2013 in Pitman, NJ at the age of 88. He was a former senior consultant for the DuPont Company where he was employed for 40 years. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, and formerly of Beaver Falls, PA, he was a resident of Pitman since 1968. He was the beloved husband of Jean Haines Lightner, a native of Mickelton, NJ, who predeceased him. He is also predeceased by brother Rudolph of Beaver, PA and is survived by stepson Henry Wood and three step grandchildren, Henry III, Elizabeth, and Hannah, and a number of nieces and nephews and their children. Brother Lightner graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1942. He received a degree in chemistry from

Geneva College, a degree in chemical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a degree in accounting and a MBA from Glassboro State College (Rowan University). He was employed in various engineering and management positions with E.I. DuPont De Nemours for 40 years. His interests were family, computers, the equity and futures markets, reading, music, theatre and landscaping around his home.

Carnegie Mellon University, Lignter’s Alma Mater. image: www.glassdoor.com

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Image taken from the Fall 1975, Volume 60 Number 1 issue of The Temple. The original caption reads: “Brother Nguyen Huu Cau (in front), a foreign student from Vietnam, helps Florida Omega Alpha complete a 1972 service project. In 1973, after graduating from Florida, Cau returned to the military in his homeland.”

The Search For Brother Cau

to the rock music too.” Cau even spoke with Edward J. Kirchner (Ohio State University, ‘35), PKT Man of the Century, Expansion Director in 1972, about joining. The following semester, Cau promptly joined. His brothers said “we brought a little America into Cau’s life, and he enriched ours.” Cau’s decision to return home to South Vietnam was something he wanted to do. PKT Brothers recall his departure as a “sad occasion.”

“We brought a little America into Cau’s life, and he enriched ours.” – Florida Omega Alpha Brothers, ‘1975

Revisting Phi Kap Lost In Vietnam Downfall By Kelby Dolan, Millikin University, ‘A

Brother Nguyen Huu Cau, of South Vietnam, pledged in 1972 to the Florida Omega Alpha chapter. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1973. After graduation, he returned home to South Vietnam, where he served his country in resistance to communism. On April 30, 1975, Communist North Vietnamese captured the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon, forcing South Vietnam to surrender and bringing about an end to the Vietnam War. During the Vietnam downfall, PKT brothers lost contact with Brother Cau. His Phi Kap Brothers searched through catalogues of Vietnamese refugees, unsuccessful in locating him. “We hope that our brother survived the maelstrom that engulfed his country.” In his late 20’s, Brother Cau came to the United States for university. His Fraternity Brothers recall how he “anxiously awaited his opportunity to participate” in service projects, and how he improved his English fluency at the Fraternity house. Cau heard rock music for the first time at the chapter house. “Now I dance

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Author of the 1975 article, Brian Burkhardt writes that Cau’s soft-spoken compassion transcends differences in nationality that define our bonds of brotherhood. Forty one years after the fall of Vietnam, we pay respect to the sacrifice of Brother Nguyen Huu Cau, while his story encourages us to act with gentle benevolence. If you have any where-about information, or questions about Brother Nguyen Huu Cau, email us at temple@phikaps.org.

Phi Kappa Theta’s Appeal to Veterans By Joe Siebert, University of Alaska Anchorage,‘17 In February of 2016, Phi Kappa Theta asked for a few military Veterans from the University of Alaska in Anchorage colony to write a letter about life after the military and why we chose Phi Kappa Theta. These letters would go to another group of Veterans who were looking to found their own colony on the other side of the country. Here is that letter. An expert is someone who is a little further along in the journey. What follows is a copy of a letter from the perspective of a recently separated career service member who was just further along in the journey. This letter reflects how I delineated value of our great organization. Dear Brothers, After nearly two decades of service as well as being a volunteer mentor and facilitator for a nationwide non-profit helping transitioning military, veterans, and their families to start a business or find employment of passion and purpose, I can tell you with authority and confidence. What Veterans miss the most, what causes a middle aged father of two to join a collegiate fraternity is this: brotherhood and purpose. Whether you’ve worn the uniform or not, the most powerful unfair advantage you will have contributing to your success is a strong support network and a reason to wakeup excited. The greatest reward you can gift your life, is

to live life in service of a cause greater than self. One of the key value drivers of the military that has never changed over the generations is our fraternal bond. We, as service members, understand that family is not a birth right, it is a choice. As veterans, we understand the value of networking. No one man is an army. We all benefit from people of diverse backgrounds, in key positions, to aid us in our times of need, to ‘check our six’ or watch our back. The brotherhood developed in the military transcends to collegiate fraternities. Becoming a civilian can be extremely hard. You feel alone; you’re not a part of a greater good, the routines are different, and probably hardest of all, you lose a sense of purpose. Within Phi Kappa Theta, I have regained that which I had lost when I left the military, while retaining those critical soft skills that allow me to thrive academically and professionally. Phi Kappa Theta builds upon those skills and translates them into attractive attributes for employment in the civilian world. Here in Alaska, many of our Phi Kappa Theta members are veterans. It was the fraternal kinship and servicing a cause greater than self that attracted us to Phi Kappa Theta. We are able to continue to grow our life long network of brothers. But, unlike the military, as a Phi Kap we have a choice with whom we associate in our organization. We are able to continually fulfill our intrinsic commitment to service through volunteerism, fundraising, mentoring and otherwise serving our community. An added perk to belonging to Phi Kappa Theta is the opportunities gained from association. Employers claim they want to hire vets publicly, but not many follow through on that commitment. Businesses want to see youth and experience in their hires. But, many businesses do not understand what we, as veterans, offer in lieu of youth and experience. For many of us, we are at a disadvantage after service. A military resume too often will not get you through the first round of hiring. As a Phi Kap, you are building onto your resume in ways that are familiar to civilian employers, making you more attractive. You stand out above and beyond traditional students. Through fraternal projects you are gaining management, leadership,

organizational and fiscal intelligence… a ton of skills that employers like to see. As an active member of your community, through volunteerism and social events, you’ll make connections with influential people. You’ll develop relationships with others who can provide references, you’ll build your resume, and you’ll get the inter-fraternal support to keep your grades above the standard. To put this in perspective, AK Phi Kappa Theta has the highest GPA average of any club or student organization on campus. We, as brothers, do not leave anyone behind. To be successful in life, both personally and professionally, you have to have a set of core values. The military told you yours while you were in uniform. Phi Kappa Theta understands this importance as well and has the five pillars that are core to the success of a gentleman: Leadership, Fraternal, Intellectual, Social and Spiritual. These guiding principles are just like the core values you followed. They are what a tradition of successful men has found, through over a century of experiences, to be the structural building blocks for a prosperous life. Being part of Phi Kappa Theta sets you apart from other students; you are a cut above. As you enter the competitive job market, you will need every advantage. You want to provide yourself every opportunity to reach the quality of life you dream for yourself. After all, you’ve earned it! As a service member you risked it all, putting your life on hold to serve others. After service, you enter a new life with new rules. There is less time to recover from error versus your peers. You need every advantage; you owe it to yourself to not throw away a great opportunity. By becoming a brother of Phi Kappa Theta you are seizing an advantage to realizing your dreams. Fraternally, Joe Siebert University of Alaska Anchorage, ‘17

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CHAPTER REPORTS Alaska-Anchorage, University of AK AΚ | Anchorage, AK As a new Chapter, Alaska is building a Continuity Binder to ensure our sustainability, longevity and ease transitions. We’re collaborating with our local minor league hockey team to raise money for CMN. Carlos for Kids honors our fallen brother. Our goal is $2,000 for CMN. We’re starting our own aquaponics system benefiting Food for Thought, a Phi Kap led initiative presented at QV this summer. We plan to start the education program next Fall. CB

Bridgewater State MA Z | Bridgewater, MA

Massachusetts Zeta is going strong in our 6th year at Bridgewater State. We recruited more members than any previous semester. We have made strides with our constitution, paying dues by working shifts at Gillette Stadium, and improving our executive board.

Arizona State AZ AZ | Tempe, AZ

The Arizona State Chapter associated 16 new members this semester.

Information as of October 14, 2016

Cincinnati, University of OH Ο | Cincinnati, OH Did not submit own report.

Deeper relationships, superior standards and financial stability highlight Chi Sigma’s achieved goals. A more personal sense of unity has allowed us to become a band of brothers seeking the goal of becoming a distinguished Catholic fraternity. A small, but growing, budget proves that in time the vision will be reality.

Reporting

AM AM CLASS IC

INITIATION CLASS

CHAPTER OPERATIONS

Finance

Operations

FRATERNITY ENGAGEMENT

LEGFI

ASANA

QUO VADIS ‘16

GOOD STANDING

ACHIEVE (SPRING)

RLC (SPRING)

CB CHAPTER BUILDER (C) = COLONY

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Detriot-Mercy, University of MI Ω | Detroit, MI

LEGEND: Chapters with the items listed below have completed each task. MEMBERSHIP

Colorado State CO ΧΣ | Fort Collins, CO

Case Western OH AΒ | Cleveland, OH

The Ohio Alpha Beta Chapter has made great improvements! We changed our leadership structure to align with that of the Executive Office and are in the process of forming a Local Board of Coaches. These changes should help us retain the institutional knowledge needed to effectively run the chapter.

Michigan Omega has made significant progress this year. Rush was a success, we have 7 associate members. Our member GPA is still the highest Greek organization on campus. We recently had a very successful Quo Vadis with great turnout. We’re looking forward to our Freindsgiving and semi-formal brotherhood events in the coming weeks.

Duquesne University PA AΞ | Pittsburgh, PA

We made the Bishop of Diocese of Pittsburgh, David Zubik, an honorary Brother, and this spring he will be helping us serve fish sandwiches at our yearly Fish Fry held Fridays during Lent. This past year we have raised over $4,000 for CMN between our annual Monte Carlo Night, Fish Fry, and Lip Sync battle. This semester we adopted a trail in Pittsburgh, in which brothers clean and maintain. We will continue this project for years. GS

University of Georgia GA ΔΡ | Athens, GA

We have increased our volunteering efforts. In addition to helping move books for the Oconee County Library in Athens, GA, for their annual book sale, we also started volunteering at the local humane society. Georgia Delta Rho hopes that our volunteer efforts can help the local community.

Eastern Illinois IL AΩ | Charleston, IL

Brothers of Illinois Alpha Omega take great pride in doing community service. We are very close with our local Salvation Army and Brothers participate in their after school program. We also strive for academic excellence and building a strong brotherhood.

George Mason VA ΓΜ | Fairfax, VA

Did not submit own report.

HOW DO I SUBMIT A CHAPTER REPORT? ............................................................ Wondering why your chapter does not have a report listed? Contact temple@ phikaps.org with your report content and/or questions. Reports can include but are not limited to chapter events, a chance encounter with a brother in a distant country, a reunion or simple news of service.

Georgia Southern GA ΛΧ | Statesboro, GA

Georgia Lambda Chi is very excited about our new involvement with Concerns of Police Survivors. We will be selling shirts to raise money for C.O.P.S. this semester. In Spring 2017, brothers are looking forward to our first annual “Back The Blue BBQ” to benefit C.O.P.S. and the “Phinest Rose Pageant” for Team Irelynn.

Hofstra NY AΩ | Hempstead, NY

We are preparing for our upcoming philanthropy event and participating in Fall Festival Activities. Alongside Delta Chi and Alpha Phi, we came in first place for Lip/Sync, a dancing competition and had a great time working with them. We’ve also begun planning community service events and our annual brotherhood retreat at a seminary. As always, we continue to represent our chapter well for our national organization. AM

Illinois, University of (C) IL ΒΔ | Champaign, IL

Georgia Tech GA ΓΤ | Atlanta, GA

Gamma Tau’s key focus this year is brotherhood. In addition to Quo Vadis, we have dedicated a week of events to further strengthen the bonds that we share.

Our Chapter has been impressive in many ways this semester. We have increased our membership and structurally set the stage for an impeccable next few years. We’ve seen an abundance of leadership developing within our ranks and look forward to future accomplishments.

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Iowa, The University of (C) IA Δ | Iowa City, IA Did not submit own report.

Lehigh PA A | Bethlehem, PA

The Lehigh Chapter is excited to announce that we have returned to our good standing with the University after two challenging years of overcoming past faults. We also raised $600 at our Parents’ Dinner, which will go towards our annual Dominican Republic Philanthropy trip over Spring break.

Iowa State IA Ξ | Ames, IA

Kansas State KS Ι | Manhattan, KS

The Kansas Iota Chapter is in a period of rebuilding and growth. As a chapter we have decided to look back to our roots as we move towards the future. As we approach our 100th year at Kansas State, we are targeting the recruits who share our core values. KS Iota will be strong again in the coming years.

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Massachusetts Kappa Theta has progressed immensely. We’re focused and ready to succeed. On the weekends, we give back to the community by cleaning our neighborhood and stay involved on campus. This Fall, we’re participating in the family festival and tabling for CMN. I cannot be more proud of the brothers and the steps we all are taking to be the best leaders we can be.

Lewis IL ΚΦ | Romeoville, IL

The Iowa Xi Chapter is making great progress in its impact on the Iowa State community. We have essentially doubled our membership in the last two years and recently revamped our community service and scholarship programs. We hope to be an extremely prominent chapter on our campus in the next couple years.

MassachusettsDartmouth, University of MA ΚΘ | Dartmouth, MA

Did not submit own report.

MIT MA Η | Cambridge, MA

Massachusetts Eta is glad to share progress toward improving ourselves and our community. We personally renovated floors and a gym space, committed every brother to at least 12 hours of service per semester, actively promoted sexual assault awareness on campus, advanced LGBTQ inclusivity within our brotherhood and more.

We’ve had a great rebuilding year, doubled our chapter size to 13 guys this semester, and are continuing to teach our new men to live by our ideals. We have helped with Free to Breathe, Habitat for Humanity, and have a few Giveback Nights coming up. Very proud of our guys and the work they’ve done.

Missouri, University of MO ΚΥ | Columbia, MO

University of Louisiana-LaFayette LA Ο | Lafayette, LA

Our chapter has avoided the negative perspectives of Greek Life that are currently taking place at Mizzou and striving to “Give, Expecting Nothing Thereof”. Our campaign to raise $20,000 for our philanthropic effort, Camp Kesem, is underway and we’ve reached 1/4 of our goal!

Missouri S&T MO Μ | Rolla, MO

Northern Illinois IL Ψ | DeKalb, IL

We have 28 AM’s for the Fall, and a full house participating in many events including Greek Week and intramural sports. As one of the larger houses on campus we have opportunities to network with a lot of other organizations to put on philanthropy events. We are also participating in many St. Patrick’s day events this year such as a cudgel, float and competitive activities on campus. We’re still adjusting to the new house but the brotherhood level is at an all time high. AM

Did not submit own report.

Nebraska, University of NE Π | Lincoln, NE

Nebraska Pi is changing the Greek system on the University of Nebraska’s campus. Other Greek orgs see our light and try to imitate us. This year has been fruitful with a new class and an increased growth in virtue. Our men work hard to hold each other accountable, and we have a solid support system. A respect for women and fellow man has been the biggest result.

Nicholls State LA ΝΩ | Thibodaux, LA

Did not submit own report.

Penn State PA ΒΓ | State College, PA

We’ve expanded our brotherhood by 50 members due to recently high pledge classes. A better relationship with the local community by increasing community service such as trash pickups, food donations and book/clothing drives. Raised over 10K for The Penn State IFC/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon, or THON and have excelled in Philanthropic work through bake sales and fundraising events.

This year our chapter has faced many challenges regarding our brotherhood organizationally as well as fraternally. Our brothers and alumni of our chapter have begun to mend their relationship with one another and are working to correct mistakes in leadership decisions moving forward.

Pennsylvania Mu brought in more new members this fall alone (9) than we did all last year (7). Also, we are well ahead of the game in anticipating 15-20 new recruits for the spring. We are on a schedule of having a philanthropy event every month, starting with a community puzzle display for Autism Speaks.

Purdue IN Ζ | West Lafayette, IN

Ohio OH Ψ | Athens, OH

Pittsburgh, University of PA Μ | Pittsburgh, PA

The Ohio State OH ΓΘ | Columbus, OH

The Ohio Psi chapter has been continuing in the path it has been forging over the past several years. They moved back into their chapter house of 25 North College Street this year and have an AM class of 13. They look forward to continuing their Philinthropy, the polar plunge, for its 10th anniversary in Athens, OH.

Indiana Zeta has been hard at work. Over the past year, we’ve raised $2,700 for Riley Hospital for Children. We plan on entering the Purdue Grand Prix this year. To engage alumni more, we are setting up a mentorship program. We hope to keep setting the standard higher. If you have any questions or want to help out, please contact gcrabtree@purdue.edu

The Temple • Fall 2016

RPI NY Σ | Troy, NY

Temple PA Ι | Philadelphia, PA

New York Sigma recently pinned 23 new members in the house. This is our biggest class in the past 5 years, and the biggest class on campus. We are focusing on brotherhood bonding, building our online back work server, and hosting more philanthropy events. Proud to be Phi Kap!

We are hard at work educating out current class of associate members. We are preparing a tailgate fundraiser this Fall, and are organizing a fundraising event for the Tutu Project to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

San Diego, University of CA ΦΔ | San Diego, CA We continually strive to improve our community and strengthen our brotherhood by emphasizing our core values. This year, we raised over $10K for Children’s Hospital Orange County and plan to raise another $10K for the Movember Foundation this coming November. We are further strengthening our alumnni relations by actively planning brotherhood events with our growing Alumni network. AM

The Temple • Fall 2016

Seton Hall NJ ΦΒ | South Orange, NJ

Our chapter is celebrating our 54th year at Seton Hall and we remain the first and oldest fraternity on campus. We now have 40 collegiate members who devote themselves to the brotherhood that Phi Kappa Theta stands for and bettering themselves and those around them everyday. Also, 2016 marks the 30th year that we are having our annual female Greek Life talent show, Pirate Queen, for our main philanthropy, Team Walker. LF

Did not submit own report.

South Dakota, University of SD ΑΞ | Vermillion, SD

Pennsylvania Tau has greatly improved our relationship with Saint Francis University and the community. We were named Fraternity of the Year by SFU for the 2015-2016 school year. We also won Greek Week and had the largest Spring 2016 new member class of all fraternities on campus. We are continuing our philanthropy work for Movember this semester and developing better alumni relations.

SDSU CA ΦΙ | San Diego, CA

Our goals are to improve brotherhood, GPA, and fundraising. We have over 400 public relation hours so far, we pledged 4 AM’s and have 60 recruits interested. We placed in 90% of homecoming events and were second in our Spartan Week. Our biggest focus now is perfecting our fundraising approach with a few events coming up.

Saint Francis PA Τ | Loretto, PA

We saw over 550 rushees through rush events. 1st place in IFC football & softball. Most volunteers for breast cancer walk in 4 years combined. Chapter house renovations. Gearing up for Movember.

Trine IN ΑΓ | Angola, IN

Syracuse NY Τ | Syracuse, NY

Did not submit own report.

THROWBACK ............................................................ Texas Tau Mu brothers gathered on Saturday, October 15th, 2016 to honor and host the Founding Members on their 50th Anniversary Celebration of being a Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity at what was then Pan American College. Image taken October 13th, 1966.

Wisconsin, University of WI Λ | Madison, WI The Phi Kaps in Madison are rolling into fall with style. From championing a new philanthropic effort with Delta Gamma to celebrating the wedding of a brother, the men of Wisconsin Lambda have our eyes set on great things this semester. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more determined and passionate group of men on our campus.

Texas Rio Grande Valley, University of TX ΤΜ | Brownsville, TX Did not submit own report.

Texas/Austin, University of TX ΑΠ | Austin, TX The University of Texas at Austin Chapter associated 3 new members this semester.

Washington State University WA AΔ | Pullman, WA After winning the Founders Cup for the second year in a row, we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of our Chapter house being built by Brother Paul Allen with over 200 Alumni, Collegiate and National representatives in attendance! We are raising funds for our WSU Phi Kappa Theta Scholarship Endowment and the Chapter is ready to raise over $10K for Movember! GO COUGS!

Washington, University of WA ΒΔ | Seattle, WA

Worcester Polytechnic University MA Λ | Worcester, MA

Entering this academic year, the brothers of Washington Beta Delta are currently bringing our chapter back with the biggest recruitment we’ve had in years. We try our best to be very welcoming and positive while truly embracing the motto “Give, Expecting Nothing Thereof”! #proudtobeaPhiKap

Our chapter has been working to increase transparency between the executive board, cabinet and general members while improving our campus image and promoting our brotherhood values.

The Temple • Fall 2016

His Eminence Cardinal Donald Wuerl (Fairfield University, ‘A) (middle) at the unveiling of the Cardinal Donald Wuerl Spiritual Development Fund in Washington D.C.. Brother Wuerl is pictured here with Foundation Trustee Emeritus Ed Solvibile (Temple University, ‘63) (left) and Foundation President Jeff Jowdy (University of Georgia, ‘85) (right).

WILL YOU ANSWER THE CAL Phi Kappa Theta Creates Cardinal W. Donald Wuerl Spiritual Development Fund By Nicholas R. Scalera, Seton Hall University, ‘63

The Temple • Fall 2016

In a poignant ceremony in our nation’s capital on Sunday, April 24, 2016, Phi Kappa Theta formally announced creation of a spiritual development fund named in honor of Cardinal W. Donald Wuerl (Fairfield University, ‘A), Archbishop of Washington, DC. The Cardinal Wuerl Spiritual Development Fund was initiated with $35,000 in personal donations from His Eminence. It will support programs designed to develop and nurture the spiritual development of brothers through

conferences, retreats, programs and materials. The fund was established and endowed by Phi Kappa Theta Foundation, which solicits gifts to support the academic and educational development of brothers, chapters and colonies. Among the programs that could benefit from the Cardinal Wuerl Spiritual Development Fund are: • Chapter-administered Quo Vadis training programs and manuals; • Spiritual programs and speakers at Phi Kappa Theta national and regional

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training conferences; • Manuals and materials for chapter chaplains; and • Scholarships for collegiate brothers to attend annual conferences run by FOCUS, a national Catholic outreach group that motivates students to practice/ fortify their faith. The ceremony was held in the residential suite of The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle – seat of the Archbishop of Washington DC. It opened with a prayer delivered by Edward R. Solvibile (Temple University, ‘63), a former Phi Kappa Theta National President and TrusteeEmeritus of the Foundation. Gregory E. Stein (CUNY, ‘70) then introduced Cardinal Wuerl, recounting the Cardinal’s background, history and long-time relationship with Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. He said then Father Wuerl was initiated into Phi Kappa Theta in a ritual in the catacombs beneath St. Agnes Church, Rome, in July 1971. Stein was among those who attended Father Wuerl’s initiation. Wuerl was ordained a Bishop by Pope John Paul II in 1986 in St. Peter’s Basilica and received his red hat from Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. He was at the March 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis and was said to be one of three US Cardinals considered to be “Papabili” (pope-eligible). In response, Cardinal Wuerl expressed his gratitude to Phi Kappa Theta for promoting the spiritual growth and

development of its members. Spiritual Development is one of the five pillars of the fraternity; the others are: Leadership, Intellectual, Fraternal and Social. Earlier, the Cardinal had mingled and chatted informally with attendees and posed for individual photos with each guest. He also presented two gifts to each attendee: • Being Catholic Today: Catholic Identity in an Age of Challenge, a Pastoral Letter he delivered on Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 2015, to the Washington Archdiocese; and • His book, Seek First the Kingdom: Challenging the Culture by Living Our Faith, one of the many he has authored over the years. Brother Solvibile then unveiled and offered to His Eminence the Phi Kappa Theta Cardinal Wuerl Fund crest. The emblem is inspired by St. Matthew the Apostle Cathedral and features design elements from Phi Kappa Theta’s established President’s Men Giving Society. In addition to Wuerl, Stein and Solvibile, the event was attended by other Phi Kappa Theta leaders, alumni and guests, including: Foundation President Jeffrey W. Jowdy (University of Georgia, ‘85); Phi Kappa Theta National President Lawrence Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68); Executive Vice President Robert W. Riggs (RPI, ‘02); and several former and current fraternity and foundation trustees. The Seton Hall University Chapter, New Jersey Phi Beta, was represented by former Phi Kappa Theta National Trustee Nicholas R. Scalera (Seton Hall University, ‘63); Brian W. Giles (Seton Hall University, ‘14); and Daniel Adamitis (Seton Hall University, ‘14). Wuerl was recognized by Phi Kappa Theta on previous occasions as well. He was on the cover of The Temple in 1988, when he was named Man of Achievement, and in 2010, when he became a Cardinal. At a March 2, 2012 reception in Washington, DC, Phi Kappa Theta renamed its Spiritual Development Award in his honor. The award is presented annually to the collegiate chapter that “embraces our Catholic heritage, maintains a high standard of moral values and utilizes our Ritual as a guide in the development of our brothers.” The New Jersey Phi Beta Chapter received this award in 2015. Cardinal Wuerl was born in Pittsburgh and received his graduate degrees from The Catholic University of America,

the Gregorian University in Rome and a doctorate in theology from the University of St. Thomas in Rome. He served as Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh for 18 years until his appointment to Washington. His titular church in Rome is Saint Peter in Chains. Pope Francis appointed Cardinal Wuerl to the Congregation for Bishops – a powerful Vatican committee that selects new bishops throughout the world. Wuerl also serves on numerous other national and international church bodies. He is chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, chancellor of The Catholic University of America, and board chairman of the Pope John Paul II Cultural Foundation. The Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation is seeking donations to the Cardinal Wuerl Spiritual Development Fund. The goal is to grow the endowment so it can finance additional spiritual programs and materials at higher award levels for collegiate chapters and colonies.

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To donate to the fund, contact: Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation 3901 West 86th Street, Suite 360, Indianapolis, IN 46268 (317) 872-9934 foundationstaff@phikaps.org.

Or visit: www.phikaps.org/wuerl to donate to the fund online.

The Temple • Fall 2016

Two Chapters, Two Marriages By Stephen Lee, Lewis University, ‘10 Director of Advocacy and Outreach

The average age of marriage in the United States is nearly 28 years old, according to a 2015 United Nations study. This year, two Phi Kaps decided to buck this trend and marry their respective sweethearts. Phi Kappa Theta, as well as the Catholic centers on each campus, played a major role in each marriage ceremony. Wisconsin Lovebirds’ Story Intertwined with Chapter “I totally introduced them” claims David Cupp (University of Wisconsin, ‘17), current chapter president of Wisconsin Lambda. “Haha, that’s a lie” responds Eric Laylan (University of Wisconsin, ‘17), a Phi Kap who recently married his sweetheart Karen. “He was just standing there when she and I met.” It was Spring of 2014, and they were attending a Catholic retreat. “He sat by me and said ‘Hi’”. Karen didn’t recognize him at first, and asked “Who are you?” He responded “I’m Eric! We met already!” Although she was embarrassed for not initially remembering him, Eric was unfazed, and they talked for a while. “David observed this all from afar, so he likes to think he set us up but he didn’t” recalled Karen. The story of Eric and Karen is intertwined with Phi Kappa Theta’s recent history at Wisconsin. The lovebirds met at St. Martin Catholic Church, the same place

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where Wisconsin Lambda was recolonized in September 2014. They met on a retreat led by the St. Paul University Catholic Center, which has been crucial in the success of Wisconsin Lambda since it’s refounding. The chapter was always supportive of their relationship, which was especially apparent at the wedding. President David Cupp was a groomsman, Andrew Thomas an usher and ten additional brothers attended the wedding.

“God has a unique story planned for each of us.” – Karen Laylan “The brotherhood means a lot to him” Karen explained. “There were a lot of men that came and represented PKT on our big day, which meant the world to us”. “The experience was sort of surreal” recounted Eric. “It was amazing having everyone you know and are close with in one room. Also, the day went by as smooth as could be.” Much like the chapter, Eric and Karen are closely tied to the Catholic faith. “We’ve been blessed with a community that supports intentional dating and vocation discernment” said Karen. “I decided to marry Eric because God led us

together.” Karen recently started grad school at Wisconsin, and Eric is finishing up his senior year after transferring to Madison Area Technical College. Nearly all the students in their circle are not yet married. “For some reason we were called to meet when we were young, but I don’t want anyone to get discouraged because their timing is not the same” said Karen. “God has a unique story planned for each of us.” Newlywed Couple at Arizona State University Lean on Chapter At Arizona State University, Michael Atkins (ASU, ‘16) married his sweetheart, Saskia, while still in college. Mr. and Mrs. Atkins met in high school band camp. Michael was on the drumline and Saskia played tuba. After two years of dating, the relationship ended, and Michael eventually went off to seminary. Michael was devoted to his faith, but soon found himself facing an internal struggle. “During my second year in the

Eric and Karen Laylan on their wedding day. Eric (University of Wisconsin, ‘17) sports his Fraternity pin in this photo.

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program, I started to feel more and more that my true vocation might be to married life.” He decided to put the issue in God’s hands. “Not long after that, I started to feel called toward marriage and happiness at the same time because I knew that this was what God wanted of me.” Michael left the seminary and enrolled at ASU. After being home for six months, he learned that his former girlfriend, Saskia, was confirmed as Catholic. The two rekindled their friendship and began dating soon after that. “I knew from the start that I wanted to marry her and roughly seven months later I proposed to her.” The marriage ceremony took place this spring in the All Saints Catholic Newman Center, known historically as Arizona Alpha Zeta’s home base. In the Atkins wedding, you could find Phi Kaps as groomsmen, altar servers and ushers. “A huge highlight of the night was when a group of the PKT brothers sang the sweetheart song to me!” said Mrs. Atkins. “It was a really nice gesture that made me feel very honored and accepted.” How’d they sound? “They sounded great!” exclaimed Mrs. Atkins. “Everyone loved it. People still bring it up.” Mrs. Atkins’ sorority sisters from Mu Epsilon Theta were also well represented at the wedding and did some singing of their own. Michael credits much of the newlyweds’ success to the brothers of Alpha Zeta Chapter at ASU. “I was engaged when I joined and they really treated Saskia like part of the family. I poured constant support towards us. There were also a few brothers who were in relationships during our engagement and it was awesome to have other strong couples around us that we could spend time with.”

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Return To The Motherland Latino Brother Receives A Helping Hand, Pays It Forward By Stephen Lee, Lewis University, ‘10 Director of Advocacy and Outreach

Kevin Hernandez (Lewis University, ‘17) is Latino to the core. The Lewis University senior and Phi Kappa Theta brother speaks fluent Spanish and serves as Vice President of his school’s Latin American Student Association. In his 22 years of life, Kevin had never been to his motherland of Mexico. That changed this spring, when he visited family in the Mexican state of Jalisco.

seriously ill. He wanted to go back, but couldn’t afford another trip so soon. His employer, Starbucks, could tell the urgency of the situation and offered to cover expenses for his emergency trip back to Mexico. “It felt incredible to know that a company I work for was willing to help me out when I needed it most” Kevin gushed. “They trusted me. They understood what

the Latin American community at Lewis University was heard!” One major accomplishment was activating the “Latina/o Leadership Scholarship”, meant to support exceptional

“Our Fraternity is most definitely welcoming to Latino students. I was welcomed and accepted for being different right away. My brothers have always been there when they can.” – Kevin Hernandez, Lewis University, ‘16 “The feeling of being in Mexico was indescribable” Kevin explained. “It felt like home. I would get chills just simply walking down the plaza.” Kevin reunited with his father, a man he hadn’t seen since childhood, and also met his two kid brothers for the first time. “Getting to know my entire family was beyond incredible” Kevin explained. “Meeting my father and my two little brothers was a huge eye opener and only motivated me to be who I want to become and never give up!” Shortly after returning to the USA, Kevin’s grandmother in Mexico became

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was happening in my life and made it clear that it wouldn’t affect my job.” Three days before his trip back to Mexico, Kevin’s grandmother passed away. He went anyway and felt fortunate to attend her memorial services. As a Phi Kap, Kevin understands his call to serve others, much like Starbucks did for him. That’s why he’s spent years serving in the school’s Latin American Student Organization (LASO). “When I first arrived in college, I wanted to make a difference and get involved” Kevin explained. “My board and I worked our (butts) off to make sure

Latina/o students at Lewis for years to come. “I want our Latina/o youth, those who want an education, to know that they can and will achieve anything they set their minds to!” says Kevin. The scholarship fund had been in existence for some time, but hadn’t been given much attention or support. Kevin and his team made it their mission to activate the fund in their time at Lewis. Since then, the endowed scholarship has reached $22,000, and the goal is to reach $25,000. “We are beyond proud of ourselves

Brother Kevin Hernandez (Lewis University, ‘17) (right) with his cousin in Mexico.

and the members that made this a possibility. It’s important that we represent the Latin American Student Body at Lewis and that they know that they have support! Everyone has their own struggles and it was important to let these students know that they had a family to go to, and that we could provide them with an opportunity to help achieve further success.” Kevin feels the same way about Phi Kappa Theta. “Our Fraternity is most definitely welcoming to Latino students. I was welcomed and accepted for being different right away. My brothers have

always been there when they can.” Given the increasing trend of Latina/o students attending college, this is an opportunity for Phi Kappa Theta.

The Temple • Fall 2016

Phi Kaps and Civic Engagement Brothers Serve During First Presidential Debate By Damian Gallagher, Hofstra University, ‘17

Hofstra University 84 million viewers in the United States tuned in to the first debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, and brothers of Phi Kappa Theta were right in the action. The debate took place at Hofstra University, where PKT opened its newest chapter this past May. Damian Gallagher (Hofstra University, ‘17), is not only president of the Hofstra Phi Kappa Theta chapter, but also president of Hofstra’s Student Government Association. As such, he played a key role in planning and execution of this momentous event and personally met Donald Trump.

“This debate would make history and lay the groundwork for the next two presidential debates.” – Damian Gallagher, Hofstra University, ‘17

Here is President Gallagher’s recounting of the historical event. Media, bright lights, political commentators, protestors, students and the political process. Hofstra University hosted the first presidential debate of the 2016 Presidential Election, and it was an honor to have our Phi Kappa Theta brothers involved. Four years ago, I applied to Hofstra University after they hosted the last presidential debate between Governor Romney and President Obama in the 2012

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election. I knew I wanted to study Political Science at a school dedicated to the political process and a hub for development of ideas and theories. At the debate, I met and shook hands with Mr. Donald Trump. He was a dominating force whose presence was both warming and powerful. Meeting a presidential candidate and a successful business man was an honor. I attended the debate with an amazing view and was surrounded by significant figures—senators, important business people, and even sat two seats away from

Brother and President Damian Gallagher pictured with election mascots on the day of the debate.

the President of Notre Dame. The sentiment was that this debate would make history and lay the groundwork for the next two presidential debates. While the country and political commentators may disagree over who “won” the debate, I was awed to witness it in person. Before the debate took place, our university was working around the clock to put this debate together. Originally, we were an alternate school for the debate and because Wright State University dropped out, we took the burden which actually was a pleasure for the university to do. Students

felt an obligation to my school and country to make this debate happen. As a small piece to the grand picture, whatever my role, I felt it was important. Hosting Secretary Clinton and Mr. Trump was a whirlwind of excitement and prestige. Hofstra University is the first university to host three consecutive presidential debates. We are honored to have had the country tune in to our campus for this historic event. With Secretary Clinton being the first woman nominee for a major political party and Mr. Trump a political outsider taking the stage for a political face off, it was absolutely incredible. And to sit in the audience, like many other students, and witness history in the making was a fantastic experience. I will truly never forget how Hofstra University changed my life and made its mark in the United States of America.â&#x20AC;?

from all different backgrounds, interests, and majors volunteered to make this happen, including brothers from Phi Kappa Theta. Imagine spending the day backstage with a major news outlet like Fox News, assisting figures like Geraldo Rivera and Megyn Kelly, which is exactly what brother Marc Yanniello did. Classes were cancelled, campus was buzzing and experiencing the live media coverage was just amazing. As a student, I was on the ground volunteering like anyone else; handing out free t-shirts or running halfway across campus for papers. Whatever the task, I

David Lavallee Jr., from Hofstra University, representing Phi Kappa Theta at the first Presidential Debate.

The Temple â&#x20AC;˘ Fall 2016

The Temple â&#x20AC;¢ Fall 2016

THREE NEW CHAPTERS IN EIGHT DAYS Expansion of Phi Kappa Theta Was Busy In Spring 2016

Arizona State University Initiation.

By Stephen Lee, Lewis University, ‘10 Director of Advocacy and Outreach Expansion of Phi Kappa Theta was busy in Spring 2016. In back-to-back weekends, the Fraternity installed three new chapters. University of Alaska Anchorage was first, with twenty-five brothers founding Alaska Alpha Kappa Chapter on April 29, 2016. Two of those brothers, Derek Monk and Carlos Chavesta, passed away in 2015 and were honored with an emotional posthumous initiation into PKT. Phi Kappa Theta dispatched its National President, Lawrence Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68), and director of membership growth, Stephen Lee (Lewis University, ‘10), to Alaska to execute the installation. They were joined by five brothers from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, who made the trip in support of original founder Mark Riley (University of Alaska Anchorage, ‘16), who originally joined Phi Kap at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. That same weekend, four thousand miles away, Phi Kappa Theta installed the New York Alpha Omega Chapter at Hofstra University. Present to install the chapter was the Fraternity’s National Vice President, Adrian Gonzalez, Executive Vice President, Robert Riggs and former Phi Kappa Theta Foundation President, Greg Stein (CCNY, ‘70). Thirty-one brothers became Founding Fathers at Hofstra University at their installation banquet on Sunday, May 1, 2016. A week later, thirty-nine men of Arizona State University became founding fathers of the Arizona Alpha Zeta

Chapter on May 7, 2016. Again, National President Lawrence Dorocke University of Wisconsin Brothers showing their postand Director of chartering excitement. Advocacy and Outreach Stephen Lee were there to member to be on campus for six months install the new chapter. as a recruiter and trainer of new members. In all three installations, brothers were Isaiah Adona (Washington State University, joined by distinguished guests, including ‘12) answered the call. priests, university staff, Phi Kap alumni, He spent the Fall of 2014 at the community leaders and loved ones. University of Iowa, laying groundwork Congratulations brothers, you’ve for future success. He helped recruit new come a long way! Keep up the great work. members and trained them to focus on the Fraternity’s values. After that assignment, Iowa Delta: Long Road Back, First Isaiah relocated to San Diego to continue Milestone working for the Fraternity in other roles. Two years later, Brother Iowa Delta, originally founded in Adona returned to Iowa City for the 1914 as the fourth chapter of Phi Kappa at Recolonization. the University of Iowa, has an important “Coming back to Iowa City was very history in our Fraternity. In the 102 years fulfilling” said Brother Adona. “I could not since, the Chapter has weathered many be more proud of the diverse and wellchallenges, while succumbing to others. rounded potential these gentlemen have on In the 2006-07 school year, the Chapter Iowa’s campus.” closed. Alumni remained committed to Isaiah, now the Director of Member keeping Iowa Delta alive, and in 2013, Experience for Phi Kappa Theta, is excited signed an agreement with the Executive that the Colony is a “values-centric Office to recolonize. group developing their shared vision for “This has been years in the making rechartering Iowa Delta in the near future.” with plenty of exciting starts and Alumni of Iowa Delta are playing a challenging stops” explained Erik Reno prominent role in the support of the Colony. (University of Iowa, ‘02), who helped “We alumni are growing our relationship secure the agreement and is now Fraternal incrementally all the time” explained Coach for Iowa Delta. “But here we are Brother Reno. “They’re great young men.” and we couldn’t be more thrilled about the Iowa Delta has a full coaching board future of Phi Kappa Theta at Iowa.” consisting of six alumni. This agreement included a significant financial investment to hire a staff

The Temple • Fall 2016

Pursuing Passions Through Music Brothers With Music to Share Pop Up Nationwide By Phi Kappa Theta Staff

From rock to opera, Phi Kappa Theta has up and coming musicians in our midst. HOAX, a free-wheeling indie band from New York, includes two collegiate Phi Kaps from Hofstra University. The group is gaining steam and notoriety for their relaxed style and hip hop flare. Their newest single, ‘Indian Summer’, received critical acclaim from ObscureSound.com: “melodically bright and contagious enough to properly exude the sun-basking vibes of our recently passed season.”

progressive band blends burning guitar riffs with clear and demanding vocals, guided by driving drums and shifting bass lines. Brother Lee became the band’s second lead singer when he joined in December 2015. Since then, Speedbird has played numerous shows in their homebase of Indianapolis, as well as Chicago. Speedbird’s debut album, Blink and You’re Dead, was recorded in-house (literally) and received positive reviews. The eight track album features songs about characters from Doctor Who and Rick and Morty, a tribute

‘10).

This 3-piece cover band includes pounding yet refined guitar skills of Dan Abercrombie and the chilling, soulful voice of Mary Madson. Mary is quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with among female vocalists.

“Are we doing what our soul wants or what we have been taught to pursue?” – Michael Raj, Hofstra University, ‘16 Phi Kap Brothers Mike Raj (vocals) and Frantz Cesar (bass) represent Phi Kappa Theta in the five-member band. “HOAX is an ironic name” explains Mike Raj. We feel too many people are pressured to give up doing what they love just so they can pursue jobs or careers that are labeled ‘stable’. So the hoax is within ourselves. Are we doing what our soul wants or what we have been taught to pursue? Our music is our own personal journey to answer that question. Another rising band is Speedbird, fronted by PKT staff member, Stephen Lee (Lewis University, ‘10). This aggressive-

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to military personnel, a plane crash and sasquatch. “Phi Kap has given me three crucial things” said Stephen Lee. “The confidence to go on stage, the inspiration to pursue my passion, and a national audience of brothers to share our music with.” By the time you read this, Speedbird will have played a show at the University of Illinois Phi Kap house, in a show called “Phi Kaps Rock the Kastle”. Joining Speedbird on that ticket is Dogs With Hands, hailing from Champaign under the tutelage of Phi Kap Brother and drummer Zac Dawkins (Lewis University,

Hofstra University Brothers Frantz Cesar (second from left) and Mike Raj (middle) with their band HOAX.

Interestingly, all three musicians are in recovery and use music as a creative release. “We’re three people with a passion for music” said Brother Dawkins. “We each bring a different flavor, a different perspective. We take those ingredients, stir it up with a heavy dose of having fun and the result is what we’ve come to call ‘Dogs With Hands’” Dogs With Hands has spent the past year mastering a range of covers from Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” to Ellie King’s “Ex’s and Oh’s”. They have plans to create original music as well.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is in the top tier of opera houses in America. It is genuinely thrilling for me to know that Jesse has been on their stage for performances of two Wagner operas.” The second Iowa Xi musician is a rocker who left college before graduation to pursue his dream. Brother Joe Brown plays rhythm guitar/ vocals for the hard rock band Helforstout, with his brother Gabe Brown. According to heartlandmusic.com, “The name Helforstout derives from a viking word meaning ‘built sturdy’, which directly ties in with the band’s main goal: providing the beefiest, sturdiest music in the most energetic, powerful form for all who love to rock.” The band’s first album was recorded live under the expert guidance of producer Terry Manning. “Terry is a highly regarded producer in the music world” said the band’s Facebook post. “He has successfully guided many bands to their next level”, working with artists such as Led Zeppelin’s ZZ Top, Lenny Kravitz, Otis Redding and more. Helforstout is currently being rebuilt, and hopes to be rocking again soon. If you know a Phi Kap musician, let us know!

Iowa Xi chapter has recently produced talented musicians of their own. Jesse Donner (Iowa State University, ‘11) is laying the groundwork for a successful career in the opera world as a tenor. During the 2016-2017 season, Jesse is performing in the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s productions of Das Rheingold, Die Zauberflaute and Norma. According to LyricOpera.org, “the Des Moines, Iowa native received the 2015 Men’s Voice Fellowship from the Luminarts Cultural Foundation, the 2014 George Shirley Award for Opera Performance” and more. Brother Greg Stein (CCNY, ‘70), an honorary Iowa State Cyclone and self-proclaimed operaphile, had this to say, “The

Brother Stephen Lee (Lewis University, ‘10) right, performing with his band Speedbird.

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Relatives: If your son is no longer in college and not living at home, please forward his permanent address to: Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: 317.872.9934 Change Service Requested Printed in the USA Postmaster: If undeliverable, please send notice on Form 3579 immediately to Phi Kappa Theta, 3901 West 86th Street Suite 360 Indianapolis, IN 46268

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