Fall 2025 Podium

Interim National Executive Director

Projects & Systems Manager

Interim Accounting Manager

Membership Services Coordinator

KKΨ Chapter Field Representative

KKΨ Chapter Field Representative

STAFF

Dollie O’Neill

Aaron Moore

Daniel George, CPA

Debbie Morris

Mason Thomas Ari Wright

MAILING ADDRESS

The PODIUM National Headquarters Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma P.O. Box 849 Stillwater, OK 74076-0849 (405) 372-2333 www.kkytbs.org e-mail: podium@kkytbs.org

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS

Articles must be prepared using common word processing software or submitted by e-mail. Photographs must have captions attached with all individuals identified. Detailed author’s guidelines can be found on the Podium Online website at: podium.kkytbs.org

DEADLINES

May 1 December 1 Fall issue Spring issue

The PODIUM is produced at the National Headquarters of Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and printed and mailed by Modern Litho-Print, Jefferson City, Missouri.

On the Cover:

Photo Collage from the 2025 National Convention

oneill@kkytbs.org moore@kkytbs.org george@kkytbs.org morris@kkytbs.org kkycfr@kkpsi.org cfrkky@kkpsi.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

September 30

• KKΨ & TBΣ Semester Schools submission deadline for Chapter Personnel Reports (must include approvals, completed policy acknowledgments, and submission of fees).

October 15

• TBΣ Quarter Schools submission deadline for Chapter Personnel Reports (must include approvals, completed policy acknowledgments, and submission of fees).

November 15

• KKΨ Quarter Schools submission deadline for Chapter Personnel Reports (must include approvals, completed policy acknowledgments, and submission of fees).

December 1

• Online deadline for articles being submitted to the Spring 2026 issue of The Podium

• On-time deadline for Fall Activity Reports

March 20-22

• Southeast District Convention, Greenville, SC

March 27-29

• North Central District Convention, Muncie, IN

• Southwest District Convention, Dallas, TX

April 10-12

• Midwest District Convention, Minneapolis, MN

• Western District Convention, Portland, OR

May 1

• Online deadline for articles being submitted to the Fall 2026 issue of The PODIUM

• Submission & postmark deadline for ΤΒΣ National Scholarship applications

May 15

• Deadline for all KKPsiAA Awards and Grants

June 1

• On-time deadline for Spring Activity Reports

July 1

• KKΨ Awards Deadline

what'sINSIDE

Writers Wanted!

The National Headquarters accepts the Podium submissions via e-mail at podium@kkytbs.org and online at podium.kkytbs.org. In order to make processing of articles easier please use the following format:

Remember that articles must be received by May 1 for the fall issue and December 1 for the spring issue. Within the subject line include "Podium Article for (your) Chapter."

Feature articles should be 1-2 pages, not including photos. You can figure 600 words per page, so a 2-page article would be about 1,200 words. Try to keep your article to a multiple of 300 words, with a 600 word/1-page minimum.

Fraternity/sorority-wide news items should be one-half page/300-word minimum, not including photo(s).

Chapter news items should be one-quarter page/150-word minimum, not including photo(s).

Articles may be submitted as an attachment to an e-mail message; save the article as either a Microsoft® Word document or in Rich Text Format.

Be sure to send photos illustrating your story. Photos must be 300dpi or higher and attached separately from the article, not embedded. We assume that the writer of the article has full rights to the photos and grants a license to us for publication purposes. Submissions containing photographs will receive priority for publication.

Every photo must have a caption! Be sure to include the photo captions within the e-mail for the article you send and be sure you identify everyone in the photo.

Original photos are preferred, either color or blackand-white.

Helpful Hints

- Make your article interesting and exciting to read.

- Focus on one or two topics and expand upon it.

- Try not to write a chapter summary report for your article.

- We like to hear about extraordinary things such as successful fundraisers, unique socials, or service projects.

Hello from Oklahoma, Minnesota, Kentucky, Arizona, and Michigan! Meeting all of you as I make the rounds as the new Interim National Executive Director these past few months has been so much fun. Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma is looking lively in 2025 and the energy is infectious!

Speaking of energy and Lexington, KY, thank you for helping make the 2025 National Convention a blast! Your collective posts on social media reminds me of all of the greatness our organizations are putting out into the world. I am still reeling from the magical performances of our National Intercollegiate Band and the inaugural Intercollegiate Jazz Band! In case you missed it, the NIB premiered Dr. Kevin Day’s piece Symphony No. 2 which was brilliant, and is sure to be played by bands all over. Conductor Jason Fettig assisted the band in providing a stellar performance. In regard to the Intercollegiate Jazz Band, IJB Conductor Jarrard Harris proclaimed: “those Cats can play!” The Lexington Opera House was loud and proud two nights in a row thanks to Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma.

As we dive into a new academic year of serving college bands, I want to celebrate some of the wins for both organizations in the past biennium. Both Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma experienced membership growth for the first time since pre-pandemic years. Kappa Kappa Psi welcomed 11 new Chapters last biennium, with five new petitioning groups starting this fall. Tau Beta Sigma welcomed six new chapters last biennium, with one new petitioning group starting this fall. These signs of growth provide us with excellent momentum, and we must be diligent and focused to continue our success going forward.

As you step into your drill sets, walk into your band halls, and prepare for your chapter meetings, remember you are representing service to bands through our organizations. Be intentional with your leadership and live in the moment! I am excited to see what each and every single one of you will accomplish this year through your bands and chapters. It’s an honor to be selected to serve and I am honored to be here writing this message to you as the new NXD for Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma.

Interim National Executive Director

Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma

TBSigma

Life Member #2384 & KKPsi Life Member #5573

Delaware State University

Dover, Delaware

SPRING 2026

Delaware State University Dover, Delaware SPRING 2026

Wilberforce, Ohio

INSTALLED OCTOBER 19, 2025

Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, Georgia

Wilberforce University

Wilberforce, Ohio

INSTALLED OCTOBER 19, 2025

Macon, Georgia Roanoke

Virginia

My Journey to National Convention

Jalen Braithwaite

Eta Iota - ΚΚΨ

Bethune-Cookman University

My experience at National Convention was truly one of a kind. As a member of the Eta Iota Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi—rechartered on April 21, 2024—this journey marked a pivotal moment in my fraternal life. At the time of recharter, I didn’t fully understand what lay ahead for me in this Brotherhood. All I knew was that a lifelong dream had just been fulfilled. What would be my place in this organization? What did I hope to gain from this experience? Honestly, I didn’t know. But I was ready to find out.

As time went on, I began to see the many paths and opportunities available within the Fraternity. What I grew to love most was the sense of fellowship—meeting Brothers from different chapters, backgrounds, and life experiences. This feeling only grew stronger when I attended our Southeast District Convention in Atlanta. It was there that I knew, without a doubt, I had to make the journey to the National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky.

In March, I wasn’t sure how it would all work out. I didn’t know who else would be attending, or how I’d even get there. But what I did know was that I, Jalen Braithwaite, had to be there. Through prayer, persistence, and commitment, it all came together. Soon, I learned I’d be the only Brother from Eta Iota making the trip. Naturally, I was nervous - new place, new faces, and unfamiliar territory. But those feelings quickly disappeared when I received a message from a Brother and true mentor, Bro. Benjamin Williams Jr. - or, as my recharter line calls him, “Uncle Ben.” He asked for my shirt size, and at that moment, I knew I wouldn’t be alone.

What started as a step into the unknown turned into what felt like a family reunion. I connected with Brothers from all over, including those I had only known through social media. Ironically, I spent much of my time with the Brothers of the Delta Iota Chapter at Florida A&M University. If you’re familiar with band culture, you know the spirited

rivalry between BCU and FAMU. But for that week, all the jokes were set aside in the name of love, fellowship, and brotherhood—and it was beautiful.

While at NATCON, I had the honor of serving as a delegate for Eta Iota and sitting on the Strategic Planning Committee. I witnessed the inner workings of the Fraternity - meeting past National Presidents who paved the way, engaging with the incredible work of CFRs like Ari and Mason, and learning firsthand how our national leadership continues to shape our future. Seeing Brothers recognized on the national stage was inspiring. It made me want to contribute even more. The words that come to mind: “The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.” I carry those words with me wherever I go, and especially within the spaces I enter on behalf of Kappa Kappa Psi.

National Convention gave me the “why” behind the work. It reinforced that our Fraternity is bigger than just chapter meetings or line jackets—it’s about service, leadership, and uplifting one another through music and brotherhood.

Left: Jalen Braithwaite and 48th National President Jessica Lee

Right: Jalen Braithwaite and 49th National President Bang Co

To my fellow Brothers reading this: Travel. Be active. Stay engaged. Your presence matters. The knowledge, experience, and friendships you’ll gain from events like NATCON, district conventions, and leadership summits are unmatched. This brotherhood will give to you what you give to it.

Lastly, I want to give a heartfelt thank you to the following people:

• My amazing mother Barbara Braithwaite

• Wairimu “Mimi” Njoroge of the Theta Rho Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma at the Great Bethune-Cookman University;

• Bro. Benjamin Williams Jr. and Bro. Jarrell Thomas of the Delta Iota

Chapter at Florida A&M University;

• Bro. Shane Dabney of the Zeta Psi Chapter at Virginia State University;

• And every Brother who took the time to exchange words, give advice, or just share a moment with me—thank you.

Travel and fellowship, Brothers. This is what it’s all about.

An Honor That Still Resonates

My Journey with Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma

Abraham B. Anthony, III

Theta Nu - ΚΚΨ Northwestern State University of Louisiana

At the very beginning of my college marching career, I was a young student looking for belonging and direction. It was the Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi who welcomed me, supported me, and helped ease my transition into college life. In those early days, I felt—maybe for the first time—that I was part of something greater than myself. That feeling never left me.

As my journey evolved, I transferred to Northwestern State University, where I was honored with Honorary Membership into the Theta Nu Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi. That moment marked a turning point. It wasn’t just an acknowledgment of my passion for the arts and music education—it was a validation of the values I was striving to live by.

A few years later, I was invited to serve as Faculty Advisor, and was deeply honored to be inducted as an Honorary Member of the Eta Pi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma. It was one more way these organizations affirmed their faith in me, not just as an educator, but as a servant leader.

For more than twenty years, I poured my heart into teaching music, theater, and dance. Every performance, every rehearsal, every class was a chance to shape students not just into artists, but into focused, compassionate individuals. Throughout those years, the lessons I learned from both Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma continued to guide my path.

Today, my work has shifted, but the mission remains the same. I now serve as the Business Contact for FedEx Ground in Georgia, where I apply those same leadership skills and values I learned through music education and service.

But my involvement with these organizations never stopped. I am proud to serve as the President of the Atlanta Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, and I am also honored to be an Advisor on the Kappa Kappa Psi Friends and Advocates Cohort. These roles allow me to stay engaged, give back, and ensure that future generations of Brothers and Sisters feel the same sense of purpose, guidance, and connection that I felt.

Honorary membership, in my eyes, is not just a title - it’s a lifelong responsibility. It’s a commitment to live the ideals of our organizations every day. That’s why I firmly believe the selection process for honorary members must be deliberate and selective. These honors should go to those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to music, leadership, and service - not just in word, but in action.

Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma didn’t just recognize who I was - they invested in who I could become. They instilled in me the belief that leadership is earned through service, and that impact lasts long after the last note is played.

To those carrying the torch today: keep going. Keep serving. Your work is shaping lives in ways you may not see yet—but I promise you, it matters. I know that, because I’m still living it.

Above: Left to right Bros. Sam McNure,Joshua D. Johnson, Dr. Anthony Shelton, Ella Whitaker, Jalen Braithwaite Left: Jalen Braithwaite with Drumline star Jason Weaver

Love in Action

Theta Phi and the Marching Force Bring Comfort to Wildfire Victims in L.A.

Simone Baldwin

Theta Phi - TBΣ

Hampton University

This past February, the Hampton University Marching Force traveled to Los Angeles to perform at the Honda Battle of the Bands. Despite the excitement and honor, we could not ignore the reality that wildfires were devastating parts of Los Angeles. Even though they weren’t near our area, we felt the weight of what so many were going through.

Theta Phi alumna, Regan Swann (Spring ‘20), saw this as more than an opportunity to see the band perform. She wanted to give back to the community while she was there through care packages for those devastated by the wildfires. She contacted fellow Theta Phi alumna, Amber Pittman (Spring ‘20), for support. With hearts full of service, they reached out to active Theta Phi members to organize a care package activity for wildfire victims. What started as a simple idea for one individual quickly blossomed into a chapter-wide service project fueled by love and sisterhood.

Regan envisioned the perfect care package: a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, two snacks, and a cozy pair of socks. She and Amber contacted Kalailah Coleman (Spring ‘23) and McKenzie Neal (Spring ‘23), who helped coordinate with the chapter and invited the Marching Force to join.

Regan and Amber provided all the supplies and arranged for us to use a ballroom in our hotel. With the help of our Kappa Kappa Psi brother chapter, Nu Omega, and band members outside of ITB, we assembled 300 care packages. Once completed, Regan and Amber delivered the packages to a nearby lake where displaced families had gathered.

When asked why she wanted to organize this activity, Regan simply said, “A lot of people are struggling, so this is a great opportunity to help people.” Her words echoed a deep truth: even during celebration, there’s always room for compassion and service.

For many of us, especially Soror Daizha Rattley (Spring ‘23), the experience was a heartfelt reminder of what makes Theta Phi so special. “We are our best when we’re with our sisTaus,” she reflected. Echoing her statement, Neal stated, “It was so amazing to be given the opportunity to serve while also performing at one of the most notorious band battles in the country. I love that members of our organization are always thinking of how we can contribute to others and do our part. For that, I am eternally grateful.” In a hotel ballroom thousands of miles from home, that sisterhood shone brighter than ever.

It was amazing to see many individuals take time out of their night to come together and give back to the community. We could make a difference while on a fun and memorable trip. This served as a reminder about what makes not only Theta Phi great, but our sorority as a whole.

Eta Sigma and CAP

A Towson University Assessment Tool for Greek Life

Iris Smith

Eta Sigma- TBΣ

Towson University

How does your chapter ensure you’re making a meaningful impact on campus?

Towson University uses the Chapter Assessment Program (CAP) as a tool to score participation and campus involvement of Greek organizations. This program was originally developed in 2008 at the University of Delaware and is now utilized with permission at Towson. The four main categories of CAP are Academics, Chapter Management, Member Development, and Community Involvement. Under each are various opportunities and activities a chapter can fulfill to earn points for the category. At the end of the semester, every chapter receives a CAP ranking (Gold, Silver, Bronze, or Needs Improvement) based on their participation on campus with the program. Eta Sigma scored Gold for the 2024 Fall semester thanks to our amazing CAP Chair Tailor (TD) D’Adamo!

For the Academic category, Eta Sigma participates in numerous academic initiatives to ensure the success of our sisters. One of the most popular initiatives is the study logs. We have a shared spreadsheet for each month, where every sister can log when, with who, what, and how long they studied. We also participate in the GoodNoodle program, which encourages better grades on assignments by incentivizing, as well as rewarding sisters for the hard work they put into their classes. Our academic initiatives have allowed us to have the ninth highest GPA in all of Towson’s Greek Life, as well as second overall in the Independent Greek Council!

In terms of Chapter Management, Eta Sigma takes pride in our officers and their dedication to their positions. Our chapter has seven E-Board positions (President, Vice President of Membership, Vice President of Special Projects, Secretary, Treasurer, CAP Chair, Diversity and Risk Manager) and five appointed positions (Historian, Music Chair, Webmaster, Sisterhood/AVPM, AVPSP/Focus on Five Liaison, and Parliamentarian), each having their own specific responsibilities. Each officer sends TD documents that prove the fulfillment of their duties, and she sends it in as a CAP proof under the Chapter Management category. Specifically, our social media presence is a huge

aspect of chapter management, which is upkept by Webmaster Sarah Toth and her committee. Eta Sigma is incredibly active on our Instagram, consistently displaying chapter milestones, birthdays, events, and fundraisers. We also have a Facebook, that keeps all our Actives, Honoraries, and Alumni consistently updated.

Our chapter has a huge priority on sisterhood, which also falls under the chapter management category. Our Sisterhood Chair/AVPM Angelica Cruz-Martinez has planned many memorable events for us this year—some of which being game nights, a wellness night, a trip to Weber’s Farm, a trip to Baltimore’s Christmas Village, and more! One of the standout events she held this year was a joint culture night with our Kappa Kappa Psi brothers from the Iota Delta chapter. Everyone brought in foods from their culture, and we all enjoyed each other’s dishes while watching presentations! We learned so much about each other, and that awareness of our respective identities brought us closer than ever.

Member Development is most directly tied to the CAP program itself. This is the category which scores CAP-Paloozas, a series of presentations by members of the organization that fit a set theme. For example, our last CAP theme was Diversity and Inclusion, so a few of our sisters made presentations on the diversity in Eta Sigma, understanding deafness, women’s history month, and recycling! We tend to have one CAP-Palooza per month and they keep us educated and aware of various topics, not just in Greek Life, but in the real world. CAPPaloozas also help prepare us for life after college. One of the themes is Career and

Professional Development, and sisters have made presentations on resume building, time management, communication, job interviews, etc. We grow as sisters by what we present and learn through CAP.

Eta Sigma fits perfectly into the Community Involvement category, as service is at the center of our organization. The biggest service day on campus is called ImpactTU, where all Greek and student organizations are dropped somewhere close-by off campus to do community service. This year, we went to Radebaugh Park and picked up trash, cleaned the creek, and scraped runoff and residue off the sidewalks. We filled twelve trash bags in the cleanup! Community Involvement also recognizes our philanthropic efforts. Recently, we collaborated with The Hub, a student needs center on campus, to have a health/hygiene drive. We decorated and set up boxes all over the Center for the Arts and were so grateful to see them filled with high-need items. We also engage in off-campus service opportunities, like the GBMC’s 10th Annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes, a walk to fundraise and raise awareness for domestic and sexual violence victims.

CAP incentivizes and encourages chapters across all Greek Councils to stay involved at Towson. Through CAP, Eta Sigma has found many new opportunities and experiences we may not have pursued otherwise. We are grateful to be able to learn from each other, grow as a chapter, and give back to the community.

Sisterhood Trip to Weber’s Farm, October 2024

Proof for a CAP-Palooza, Theme: Diversity and Inclusion, March 2025

Iota Mu hosts a Jazz Improvisation Workshop

Brandon Jones

Iota Mu - ΚΚΨ Kentucky State University

On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Kentucky State University proudly hosted a Jazz Improvisation Workshop on its campus, led by the renowned Jazz Educator, Dr. Jamey Aebersold. With the National Convention taking place in Lexington, KY, and the introduction of the Intercollegiate Jazz Ensemble, the Iota Mu Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity seized the opportunity to bring this exceptional event to fruition. Brothers Brandon Jones and Jaheim Miles, who are actively enrolled in the Jazz Improvisation course, presented the idea to Dr. Rodney D. Chism, Sr., Director of Bands (EX ‘99), and Professor Robert Griffin, Associate Director of Bands (IM ‘05). Both directors immediately recognized the potential of this initiative, and Professor Griffin reached out to Dr. Aebersold, along with local high school directors and professional jazz musicians.

The event proved to be a resounding success. Numerous local high schools and KSU band students had the privilege of learning jazz improvisation from a true icon in Jazz Education, benefiting from Dr. Aebersold’s impressive 60+ years of global experience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our directors, Dr. Chism and Professor Griffin, for their leadership in facilitating this invaluable opportunity. Our commitment continues to strengthen the KSU Music Department, especially within the University Band Program.

Brother Robert Griffin with Student

Alpha Zeta alumnus Jamey Aebersold working with Brothers Brandon Jones & Jaheim Miles

A Semester in Harmony at Iota Lambda

Megan Taylor

Iota Lambda - TBΣ

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

As sisters and brothers of Tau Beta Sigma, one powerful force has brought us together: music. We would not have joined this organization if music had not profoundly impacted our lives in some way. Regardless of our academic paths here in Iota Lambda, which range from Computer Science and Chemistry to English and Journalism, it is our shared love for music that brought us to this organization. While many of us do not study music formally, it remains a central part of our lives through our involvement in ensembles, outreach events, and chapter traditions. Our diverse backgrounds make our chapter unique, and it’s this diversity that enriches how we experience, share, and celebrate music together.

As part of the Focus on Five campaign, we completed our White Stripe this year by hosting a music workshop for local Girl Scouts to help them earn their music badge. We opened with a session discussing where we can find music in different areas in our life –from on the bus, to the radio, or on the television - in order to help the girls recognize how music is involved in many different areas of their lives. We also played a “listen and recognize” game where the scouts listened to the sound of an instrument and had to guess which instrument the sound belonged to. To wrap up the session, we made small maracas with plastic eggs and different types of beans to hear how different materials can make different sounds.

This semester, we had many members in different ensembles! We have several sisters and brothers who perform in UNC’s top musical ensemble, the Wind Ensemble, including Garrett Sapp who won our department’s Spring Concerto Competition and performed with the Wind Ensemble at their final concert of the semester! A couple of our sisters also perform in Charanga Carolina, which is my personal favorite ensemble here at UNC. Charanga Carolina specializes in Latin Jazz, performing a range of styles from Afro-Cuban to Bossa Nova. Instrumentation includes percussion, winds, piano, as well as strings!

At UNC, we have many different instrument studios in our Music Department that our members participate in! To grow as musicians, these sisters and brothers have individual lessons and lessons with their studio. We have members in Flute Studio, Clarinet Studio, Bassoon, as well as sisters that take private lessons with department faculty.

Most of our sisters are members of the UNC Pep Band as well. Like most universities, our pep band plays at basketball games in the spring. However, we are also actively involved with other athletic teams at UNC. Our pep bands attend gymnastics, swimming, lacrosse, field hockey, and even wrestling! Our favorite part of the school year is attending the March Madness Tournament for both Women’s and Men’s Basketball, which several sisters had the opportunity to attend this semester!

In addition to ensembles and studios, one of our chapter’s focuses this semester has been on music itself. We have held Ritual rehearsals that include practice of the ritual itself, but also practice of our songs, from The Affirmation to the National Hymn, or to our own chapter song. Additionally, we have held two Song and Step workshops organized by our wonderful Song and Step Committee Head, Anneke Lewis. During these workshops, we usually have a song planned out that we either haven’t sung in a while or just need to polish up. For example, before SEDC, we worked on the Loyalty Song so we could confidently sing with our fellow members of Tau Beta Sigma during our sessions at the convention. Before each of our new lines crosses, we also hold several instruction sessions with them to teach them our 3-Part Step, and especially all of our many organization songs!

This semester has shown us that music is more than a shared interest. Music is a powerful connector that ties together Tau Beta Sigma’s service, traditions, and especially our friendships! Whether we’re helping Girl Scouts, performing in ensembles, or preparing songs for Ritual, each moment reminds us of the community that music can bring each and every one of us. As members of Tau Beta Sigma, we continue to honor music not just as an art form, but as a cornerstone of the bonds we’ve built and the service we give.

Sisters at our White Stripe Event helping Girl Scouts earn their music badge

Sisters Travelling with UNC Women’s Basketball during the March Madness

University of Central Florida Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi 2024 Alumni Homecoming

Sunny Cooperstein, Aiden McMinn, Zachary Spencer, & Jacob DaRocha

Zeta Psi - TBΣ

University of Central Florida

On October 27, 2024, the Zeta Psi chapter of Tau Beta Sigma at the University of Central Florida hosted their first TBΣ/KKΨ Homecoming event with the Eta Sigma chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi. This event featured a barbecue and potluck that brothers and sisters contributed to. Additionally, the event featured outdoor games and activities, including volleyball, frisbee, board games, and paddle boarding at our campus lake: Lake Claire. Brothers and sisters were able to mingle with alumni and share stories of their experiences during their time in the bond. Alumni were also able to share their experiences post-

graduation and how they were able to keep music within their lives. Many sisters were able to meet those who came before them in their family lines, and even meet old families that are no longer present. At the end of the event, both organizations were able to sing their respective songs and collectively sang the UCF Alma Mater. This was a really fun event that we hope to continue in the future. This was a great opportunity for building joint relations between our chapters and learning more about our chapters’ shared history!

Adrian Ranger (KKΨ) with KKPsi alumni

Current TBΣ sisters Olivia Krenicky and Kai Griffin with Linda King (Alumni)

Reclaiming a Charter Member

Dominador Coloyan Theta Beta - ΚΚΨ Boston University

In October 1982, Boston University Band Director Dr. Lee Chrisman selected Gene Boyle, Tony Cyrus, and me to represent BU in the AllAmerican College Marching Band which would perform at the Grand Opening of Walt Disney’s EPCOT Center in Orlando, FL. It was during our time there that we discovered Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.

When we returned to Boston, we met with Doc and told him what we had learned in Orlando. We were pleased to hear that not only did he know about both organizations, he had also been a Brother of the Nu Chapter at Michigan. With his help, we started the colonization period and eventually got our charter in March 1984.

Gene was there with us during the initial months of the colonization period. Unfortunately, Gene was a member of the class of 1983 and graduated before we got our charter. However, the Founding Brothers agreed that we would make him a Brother once we got our charter.

Fast forward to April 2024 and Kappa Kappa Psi - Theta Beta chapter is celebrating its 40th Anniversary. During the celebratory dinner, newly installed Brother Nathan Chan (Alpha Phi Class) saw the shako that we had presented to Doc and asked who Gene Boyle was. I was rather shocked! We went through the chapter’s records but could not find any mention of Gene as a member in any standing.

When I returned to Switzerland, I set about to see what we could do to rectify this matter. First, I wrote to all the Charter Brothers and informed them of what had happened at the anniversary festivities. They were as shocked as I was to learn that Gene had never gotten his due. By majority vote, they chose to grant him an Honorary Brotherhood as long as the chapter was okay with it.

I then wrote to James Kang, chapter sponsor, and filled him in. He agreed that we should grant Gene his honor, but we would have to wait. The university had adjourned for the academic year, and the Brothers wouldn’t be back until September 2024. He also informed me that we now had new chapter officers and that I needed to run my proposal by them.

So, I wrote to Christine Fielding, chapter President, and Palmer Wencley, Vice President for Membership, and informed them of the situation and asked how to formally request an Honorary Brotherhood for Gene. Several emails followed, and we agreed that the matter would be taken up by the chapter when the new school year started in the Fall.

September rolled around, and Palmer informed me that she had contacted Gene and he was excited about the honor. I was very glad to hear of this news. So, I flew out to Boston in October and made my proposal in person to the chapter. I told them of the history of our chapter’s founding and how we had made an error in not recognizing Gene for his efforts. I was further bolstered by additional support from my dear friend Nadene Stein, founding President of Tau Beta Sigma- Eta Gamma, as well as an Honorary Brother in her own right. Nadene also spoke at the meeting and endorsed Gene’s candidacy. James and Christine thanked us for our presentations and said that

Gene Boyle addresses and thanks the chapter

the chapter would discuss the matter and get back to us.

A few weeks later, I heard back from Palmer, and she informed me that the chapter had voted to grant Gene an Honorary Brotherhood. 6,000 kilometers away, I was bursting with joy. Palmer told me that a date would have to be arranged with Gene and the chapter and that she would keep me in the loop.

Earlier this year, Palmer informed me that April 27th would be the ceremony day for Gene. On that day, I stood with my fellow Alumni and Active Brothers and we formally initiated Gene as an Honorary Brother of the Theta Beta chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi. And as with the traditions of becoming a Brother, he would receive some commendations.

I hadn’t attended an Honorary Brotherhood ceremony since we initiated Maestro John Williams (yes, THAT John Williams) back in the 1990’s so I was witnessing the ceremony with great interest. Nathan had clearly put a lot of thought and effort into Gene’s honors.

Because he is also considered an Honorary Charter Brother, Gene has been assigned the number 0. So as of that day, I was no longer the lowest Brother numerically in the chapter. And I am perfectly content with that. If I could, I would take our charter out of its framed case and write Gene’s name on it.

As for his fraternity name, Gene would be known as “Architect”. An architect is there for the design and start up of a structure. And because he wasn’t formally acknowledged on our founding documents, Gene has always been the unknown architect who lent his talents to make the chapter the success that it is today.

Finally, I had the opportunity to make my remarks. First, I thanked all the people who helped me in this lengthy endeavor. Had it not been for their contributions and efforts, Gene’s initiation wouldn’t have taken place. I thanked Gene for his patience these past 41 years. I let him know that we were sorry for having dropped the ball. And that I was so thankful to the Brothers for making things right.

As a token of my gratitude, I presented Gene with something that had I had received on the day that I became a Brother back in March 1984. It was my Fraternity recognition pin that had been given to me by my Big Brother Tom Savage (Epsilon Nu Chapter- UMASS Amherst). I told him that it was now his.

In the past 44 years, I have known Gene as a superior bandsman, a dear friend, and a fellow Terrier. Now, I can also call him my Brother.

From left to right: Gene Boyle, Dominador Coloyan, Nathan Chan

A Not-So-Gentle Reminder

Benjamin Williams, Jr. Delta Iota - ΚΚΨ

Florida A &M University

B A N G!

I never saw the truck coming. I barely felt the impact when it barreled into my left side as I was turning into the intersection. But I HEARD it.

And suddenly, there was a flurry of different sounds. The OnStar voice coming through my car, asking if I’d been in a crash. “Mr. Williams? Are you hurt? Do you need me to call for help?” The blaring horns of other vehicles, trying to flag the truck that had run the red light and kept going after it demolished my 2021 Cadillac CT5. The lady who hurriedly approached my door, telling me to sit back down and try to breathe. The man who told me to hold on and then sped off in his pickup truck to try and find the vehicle that struck my car. I couldn’t answer any of them. I could barely form words. I don’t know if I was ever truly aware what “shock” was before this accident, but I realize now that I was operating on pure adrenaline in those moments.

Right before I opened the driver-side door to try to communicate with that sweet lady, I had looked at my left hand. There was an inch long laceration under my thumb, and I could see the connective tissue poking out of the open wound. I did not know it at the time, but I had two fractures under my 2nd and 3rd fingers. I could not close my palm even if you’d paid me to do it. The gash was freely bleeding and soaking my pink Old Navy swimming trunks.

My immediate thought: “I’m not going to be able to play my horn.”

I’m sorry, what?!

I am left-handed. It is my dominant hand by light-years. I write, eat, and reach for objects with it. In contrast, I had not touched my clarinet in at least a year. I had to mentally scroll scattered images to even remember the last occasion I had taken it out of its case. I had no rehearsals or performances anywhere on the horizon. So why did my mind automatically take stock of my (in)ability to run a circus march on command? Recovering from the surgery on my hand gave me some time to process and ruminate on this question.

I’ve always loved to play and was All-State caliber by my senior year of high school. But I’m no professional musician, nor was I a Music Major in college. I just loved to make music. Additionally, (and I’m admittedly biased here) all clarinet players will tell you there’s something special about us. While I relished being a band member, being a part of the Clarinet Section was also a large part of my identity as a musician. The idea of such an integral part of myself being lost, or even diminished, was terrifying.

You might remember reading about the shooting of Ralph Yarl in 2023. He was the teenager who accidentally rang the wrong doorbell as he was trying to pick up his younger siblings from their friend’s home. The shooter fired multiple rounds at him, striking him in the arm and in the head. Ralph survived, but he sustained a traumatic brain injury that left him with migraines and trouble with his balance.

Let me say, parenthetically, that by no means do I equate my accident with the physical and emotional trauma Ralph endured and is still navigating. I only mean to draw the parallel that he is a young Black

boy who was an All-State bass clarinet player, and I had a visceral reaction to his story because I saw myself in him. I could not imagine being 17 years old and faced with the possibility of not playing my horn again. I prayed earnestly that his musical gift would be restored to him. Fortunately, for both Ralph and me, those injuries did not win. Ralph successfully auditioned for the All-State Missouri Band the following spring. It has been 21 days since my surgery, and my finger mobility is improving every day. The surgeon told me it was a miracle I suffered no permanent damage to any ligament or tendon in my hand that he could see. He is enthusiastic about my outcomes.

I have toyed with the idea of joining a performing ensemble for the past four years. Life always seemed to get in the way. “I don’t have any extra time.” “I need to get my clarinet serviced.” “I’m too old and too far removed from band.” All those excuses will stop now. Facing the prospect of losing access to making music reminded me I possess an ability that not everyone shares. I can look back now and admit I took music for granted in college. Maybe it was guilt that I felt, looking at my hand after the crash.

There were many days I did not feel like practicing or even showing up to rehearsal. I pushed through and told myself it was expected of me. I was a brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, and we were meant to serve. We were supposed to be present and productive, even when no one else wanted to be. What I neglected to consider was the inherent delight in creating great music. As Alumni Members, most of us are no longer connected to readily available outlets where we may play or perform. Music is like all languages, however; if you do not use and practice your communication, your comprehension and execution may eventually fade to a distant memory. I am choosing to move forward with gratitude and respect for my gift. Service is a noble duty, but I implore all my brothers and sisters to always carry with you the joy of music.

Left: Benjamin Williams performing in the FAMU Marching 100 at Homecoming 2003

Right: The remnants of author’s car after the accident.

Atlanta Alumni Association

Continuting a Bold Legacy of Leadership and Service in 2024

Abraham B. Anthony, III & Wairimu “Mimi” Njoroge Atlanta Alumni Association, ΚΚΨAA & TBΣAA

The leadership team and members of the Atlanta Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma are proud to reflect on a transformative 2024 fiscal year, one filled with meaningful service, intentional mentorship, and vibrant engagement that touched organization members and bands in Metropolitan Atlanta and other communities in Georgia and Florida.

Our association has long stood as a post-graduate extension of the ideals we professed in college: service, leadership, and a lifelong devotion to music. This year, we honored those commitments we made with record-breaking efforts that reaffirmed what’s possible when alumni remain active, visible, and purposeful.

Golden Baton Scholarship Initiative (GBSI): Mentoring the Next Generation

At the heart of our programming this year was the relaunch of the Golden Baton Scholarship Initiative (GBSI), mentoring 16 high school juniors aspiring to join collegiate bands. Over two years, scholars will receive mentorship in academics, music development, interview and audition prep, and emotional wellness. It’s more than a scholarship— it’s about building confidence and community before they even step on campus.

We are excited for what these students have and will achieve and proud of the village of alumni who will nurture their potential.

Impact: Hands-On, Hearts-In Service

Together, our alumni family showed up and showed out across countless events and initiatives. Our impact included:

• ITB Takeover – A powerful celebration of unity and fellowship among active and alumni members encompassing an amusement park outing and cookout.

• HBCU Labor Day Classic After Party & Stroll Off – Connecting music communities through joy and culture.

• Donations to Water Drives for:

• Iota Theta (KKΨ), Iota Gamma (TBΣ), Nu Alpha (KKΨ), Xi Theta (KKΨ)

• Clark Atlanta University Band

• Martin L. King (MLK) and Southwest DeKalb (SWD) High School Bands

• Chaperone and Game Day Support for MLK and SWD High School marching bands

• Logistical Support at major events hosted by the D Dub Arts Foundation including the Showdown Battle of the Bands, Grand Royale Music Invitational, and City of Stonecrest Drumline Battle.

At each of these events, our alumni weren’t just present - they led and served with purpose - helping the events run smoothly, keeping students safe, uplifting spirits, and increasing event success.

Celebrating Traditions and Giving Back

We deepened our bond with the greater band community through intentional engagement:

• Sponsored and supported Edward Waters University’s new member presentation

• Honored Founders’ Days for both Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma

• Served at the Georgia Mass Band College Music Fair

• Facilitated impactful workshops at SED Convention, including “Life After College” and “Songs of Tau Beta Sigma Workshop”

In recognition of our unwavering commitment to national service, we were honored to be named the Top Donor during the TBSAA alumni donation drive for Tau Beta Sigma on Giving Tuesday. That distinction reflects not only our financial giving—but our strategic support and belief in the mission.

Honoring Our Own: Member Spotlights

Our work is amplified by the incredible contributions of our members. This year, we give special recognition to:

• Soror Ashley DaLaina, honored by the Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association for her work as an auxiliary coach and dancer.

• Dr. Thea Murphy, celebrated upon her retirement for a powerful career dedicated to education and selfless service.

• Soror Kelley Johnson and Soror Jennifer Ryder, who led another stellar season with LPGE, instilling pride and excellence in youth performers.

Still Serving. Still Leading.

As AAA looks ahead to a new fiscal year, we remain rooted in the founding values of our organizations—brotherhood, sisterhood, service, and musical excellence. Our vision is clear: to be the hands, hearts, and voices that uplift the next generation of leaders.

As President of the AAA of KKPsi and TBsigma, I am proud that we are living proof that the bonds of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma don’t end with graduation—they evolve. This year has been a powerful reminder that when alumni remain present, connected, and committed, we can transform lives through music, mentorship, and service.

$19.46

Club Members

Century Club Members

$9.00

Generosity of mind, heart and hand…

The rich history and legacy of Tau Beta Sigma thrives and continues to grow thanks to the loyalty and passion of all who have financially supported the organization. On behalf of the Tau Beta Sigma Board of Trustees, we wish to extend our sincerest gratitude to the following individuals for their total contributions across the years.

For Greater Bands Society

$20,000 - $49,000

Crown

Society

$10,000 - $19,999

$5,000

$1,000

Kappa Kappa Psi Giving Program

The Giving Program is a donation program designed for those who find monthly contributions to Kappa Kappa Psi more manageable than an annual donation. It is intended to build a “culture of giving” among Brothers, family, and friends of our Fraternity. The Program also allows individuals to earn life membership credits for themselves, or to gift to other brothers among other benefits and recognition. Whether you’ve given in the past or want to give for the first time, the best way to support the Fraternity is through the Giving Program. For more informtion, visit https://www.kkpsiaa.org/givingprogram

Thank You to the Following Donors Who Have Participated in the Giving Program

Where Does My Money Go?

Donations through the Giving Program support the primary objectives of the organization, allocated as follows:

• 60% to Kappa Kappa Psi’s Fraternal and Alumni Association programs, initiatives, and activities

• 27.5% to the Fraternity’s Trust Fund

• 12.5% to the Fraternity’s general funds.

How Do I Earn Life Membership Credits?

“Life Member Credits” are a benefit you can only earn through the Giving Program. 60% of every dollar you contribute earns a Life Member Credit. Once you accumulate 500 credits, a Life Membership is yours. Each monthly contribution builds so that Brothers, even at the $10 level, will eventually earn a Life Membership in Kappa Kappa Psi. It’s the easiest way to both donate, support the Fraternity, and earn Life Membership simultaneously..

Giving Levels and Life Member Credits

Member

$10/month = 6 Credits per month = 84 Months to earn LM

Founder

$19/month = 11 Credits per month = 46 Months to earn LM

Chapter

$25/month = 15 Credits per month = 34 Months to earn LM

District

$40/month = 24 Credits per month = 21 Months to earn LM

Governor

$50/month = 30 Credits per month = 17 Months to earn LM

Council

$75/month = 45 Credits per month = 12 Months to earn LM

President

$100/month = 60 Credits per month = 9 Months to earn LM

Trustee

$250/month = 150 Credits per month = 4 Months to earn

LM

Daniel

Kappa Kappa Psi Lifetime Donors

Kappa Kappa Psi would not be the fraternity it is today without the leadership, vision, and loyal support of our alumni and friends. Please accept our sincere thanks for your ongoing and loyal support. We want to make you aware that the donation lists you will see below are based on the last 20 years of computerized records. We value your contributions to the Fraternity and wish to have you recognized here accurately. If you have additions or corrections to this list, please contact Aaron Moore at moore@kkytbs.org.

Strive For The

$50,000-$150,000

The

$20,000- $49,999

The

$10,000- $19,999

$5,000-$9,999

The

$1,000-$4,999

Kappa Kappa Psi is looking for talented and dedicated brothers to serve as the next National Chapter Field Representatives (CFRs). This job gives you the ultimate opportunity to give back to our organization as the official representative of the Fraternity. CFRs travel around the country visiting dozens of chapters, thousands of brothers and working with students to benefit the Fraternity and college bands across the nation. The Fraternity is looking for brothers available to start in the summer of 2026. Please note that if you are graduating in the Spring of 2026 and are interested in applying you should do so now - the new CFRs will begin their duties in June 2026.

• Be an Alumni or Life Member

• Hold a Bachelors Degree

• Have a good driving record

• Able to obtain an Oklahoma driver’s license For full position details visit kkpsi.org

Questions? E-mail Marc Renaud, National Vice President for Membership & Expansion at mrenaud@kkpsi.org

Complete the online application on www.kkpsi.org. (Available November 2025).

Submit application with your resume, official transcript, and list of three references by December 1, 2025

A Landmark Moment

The 2025 National Intercollegiate Band with Jason K. Fettig and Kevin Day

Dr. LaToya Webb

National Vice President for Professional Relations, TBΣ

The 2025 National Intercollegiate Band (NIB) presented a concert that will be remembered for its artistry, history, and inspiration. Under the leadership of Jason K. Fettig, Professor of Music and Director of Bands at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, and featuring the world premiere of Symphony No. 2 by Kevin Day, the evening was both a celebration of legacy and a bold step forward.

Since 1947, the NIB has brought together exceptional college musicians from across the country to perform challenging and visionary repertoire. This year’s ensemble rose to the occasion with a program that showcased both tradition and innovation:

• Shoutout – Roshanne Etezady

• Poem de feu – Ita Gotkovsky

• Deciduous – Viet Cuong

• Lyric for Band – George Walker

• Comrades of the Legion – John Philip Sousa

• Symphony No. 2 – Kevin Day (World Premiere, NIB Commission)

From the rhythmic vitality of Roshanne Etezady’s Shoutout to the emotional depth of George Walker’s Lyric for Band and the timeless energy of Sousa’s Comrades of the Legion, the program was both wideranging and deeply meaningful. The centerpiece, however, was Kevin Day’s Symphony No. 2, commissioned as part of the long-standing KKΨ and TBΣ commissioning program.

A Full-Circle Moment for Kevin Day

Kevin Day, a 2015 initiate of the Gamma Sigma Chapter at TCU, first experienced the NIB as a euphonium player in 2017. Reflecting on his journey, he shared:

“Upon receiving the invitation to be the NIB composer for 2025, I was filled with such joy and am truly grateful to have been selected for it. It became a full-circle moment for me, as I was a euphonium player in the 2017 NIB where we premiered a work by Steven Bryant, and now eight years later, I would be its commissioned composer. I’m very thankful again to the KKΨ & TBΣ National Chapters for trusting me with this and for supporting my creative expression as an artist.”

His inspiration to join Kappa Kappa Psi years ago came from the sense of community he saw within the fraternity:

“I was inspired to rush KKΨ through several of the friends I made and looked up to in the TCU Band. I would see the

chapter helping at various events throughout the semester and singing together, and that ultimately inspired me to go through the process of becoming a brother. I wanted to be part of their community and by doing so, that community changed my life for the better.”

Collaboration and Musical Chemistry

At the podium for this historic performance was Jason K. Fettig, widely respected as the former Director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. His partnership with Day was marked by trust and artistry.

“My collaboration with Jason was amazing and it was a thrill to get to work with him,” Day said. “Jason had done a couple of my works during his time with the Marine Band, and so it was special to work with him in this capacity. What I enjoy most about working with conductors like Jason is their ability to read between the musical lines I’ve written and bring out interpretations of the piece that I didn’t even think of while writing it, allowing for their creative expression to take over. I appreciate how he was able to bring this symphony to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”

Breaking Barriers in NIB History

Day’s commission also carried historic weight. He is both the first Black composer and the first NIB alum to be commissioned in the ensemble’s 78-year history.

“I still am at a loss for words from when I found out both of these occurrences had happened,” Day reflected. “More so with me being the first Black Commissioned Composer in the NIB’s History. My thoughts in the moment I heard this and even now are that I couldn’t believe it had taken until 2025 to have one. I look up to many Black composers in our profession who could have been considered for this, from past to present, and I am continuously inspired by their immense talent and authenticity. So I feel the weight of the moment being the first and I don’t take this opportunity for granted. Hopefully, I will not be the last Black composer to receive this honor.”

Words of Encouragement

Beyond the performance, Day shared advice for young musicians and composers:

“Music has always been my refuge and has gotten me through various difficult times in my life. It continues to inspire me and give me peace, as well as joy and healing. I encourage

everyone to find ways to have music in your life, even if it won’t be your career. Whether that be through playing jam sessions with your friends for fun, listening to your favorite songs while you travel, or what have you. Let music be your companion and your guide.”

A Message of Gratitude

Day concluded with heartfelt thanks to the NIB musicians:

“To the 2025 NIB participants, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for bringing my Second Symphony to life. Thank you for giving me the space to pay homage to the memory of my KKΨ brother and for being open in the rehearsal process. I wish you all the very best as you venture onwards and hopefully our paths will cross at various points in the future.”

A Concert to Remember and An Opportunity Ahead

The 2025 NIB concert was not only a showcase of exceptional musicianship but also a landmark in the ensemble’s history. With Jason Fettig’s inspiring leadership and Kevin Day’s groundbreaking

new symphony, the performance stood as a testament to the enduring mission of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma: Service to Music. This reaffirms the powerful role of music in inspiring and uniting people; it was truly a concert highlighting the celebration of legacy, community, and progress.

Don’t miss your chance to join this legacy in 2027. As an NIB member, you’ll collaborate with talented peers, perform challenging and inspiring repertoire, collaborate with the guest conductor and commissioned composer, and take your place in a tradition that has shaped the future of American wind band music for over 75 years. Challenge yourself. Be inspired. Make history. Audition for the 2027 National Intercollegiate Band and experience the power of music at its very best.

Check out the NIB Website to learn more about the history: nib.kkytbsonline.com

Band

Swinging into History

The 2025 Kappa Kappa Psi Intercollegiate Jazz Band

Dr. William L. Lake, Jr.

National Vice President for Professional Relations, KKΨ

At the 2025 National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky, Kappa Kappa Psi opened a new chapter in its history with the formation of the first-ever Kappa Kappa Psi Intercollegiate Jazz Band. This groundbreaking ensemble was realized through the vision and dedication of the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association Jazz Composition Committee and Drs. William L. Lake, Jr. (Kappa Kappa Psi) and LaToya A. Webb (Tau Beta Sigma), both serving as National Vice Presidents for Professional Relations. Supported by generous donors and sponsors from across the country, this ensemble united some of the nation’s most talented collegiate jazz musicians for a truly exceptional musical experience.

A Vision Realized

The Intercollegiate Jazz Band was born out of Kappa Kappa Psi’s ongoing commitment to excellence in collegiate band life and its mission to provide leadership opportunities and transformative, inclusive musical experiences. This inaugural ensemble created a vibrant platform for collaboration, innovation, and artistic growth, while honoring jazz as one of America’s original and enduring art forms.

“The Kappa Kappa Psi inaugural Intercollegiate Jazz Band stands as a bold declaration of what jazz has always been: a uniquely American art form, born of resilience, creativity, and the voices of communities too often pushed to the margins. Jazz is the sound of our history — a history that is improvisational, unflinching, and profoundly human.”

— Dr. William L. Lake, Jr., KKPsi National Vice President for Professional Relations

Comprising students from twelve universities across the country, the ensemble delivered a thrilling concert featuring works by diverse composers and representing a variety of jazz styles and influences. The performance, held at the historic Lexington Opera House, was a highlight of the 2025 National Convention and an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The Musicians

Kappa Kappa Psi proudly recognizes the following student musicians who contributed their time, talent, and artistry to the success of this historic performance:

Alto Saxophone

• Shawn McNeil, Morgan State University

• Graham Gleockler, University of Maryland

Tenor Saxophone

• Isaiah Cole, Texas A&M University - Kingsville

• Makale Edwards, Huston-Tillotson University

Baritone Saxophone

• Joshua Spraker, Florida State University

Trumpet

• Landon Stone, University of Maryland

• Brian Moten, Morgan State University

• Alexander Romanov, George Mason University

• Evan Hancock, University of Maryland

Trombone

• Sebastian Puerta, Stetson University

• Joshua Garcia, Huston-Tillotson University

• Dwayne Thomas, Grambling State University

Bass Trombone

• Grey Justice, Stetson University

Piano

• Joshua Lister, Huston-Tillotson University

Bass

• Ian Smith, Virginia State University

• Henry Sheppard, University of Maryland

Guitar

• Matias Quiceno, Florida A&M University

Drum Set / Percussion

• James May, Stephen F. Austin University

• Jahleel Reynolds, Huston-Tillotson University

The Road to the Opera House

The ensemble rehearsed in Lexington from July 14 to July 16, undergoing three days of intensive rehearsals. These rehearsals brought together students from different musical backgrounds, merging their talents into one unified sound.

Before the ensemble’s arrival, a wide network of supporters and donors responded to the call of the Kappa Kappa Psi Board of Directors, believing deeply in the impact and purpose of this vision.

Thank you to our AEA Society Donors:

• Alison Beidler

• Robert Bylski

• Adam Cantley

• Sarah Casias

• Lance Coochyouma

• Franklin Johnson-Norwood

• William L. Lake, Jr.

• Jessica & Jack Lee

• Malinda Matney

• Aaron Moore

• Eric Morson

• Steven Nelson

• Joe Panzer

• Brian Parker

• Gail Stout

• Evan Thompson

• Victor Whitney, Jr.

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Instrument Rentals

• Byron Bryson

• Dr. Malinda Matney

• Music & Folders

• Michael Blander

• John Finocchiaro

• Ed Savoy

• Evan Thompson

• Victor Whitney

A/V Production

• Victoria Liu

• Tammi Ramsey

• Ed Savoy

• SWD Alumni Association

Band Fronts

• Carolina Jazz Xperience

• Chris Carpenter & Ema Ashley

• Dr. Rod Chesnutt

• Aaron Moore & Ali Beidler

• Dr. Nic Rorrer & Dr. Anthony Walker

• Zeta Chi Alumni Association

Student Meals

• Bang Co

• Danny George

• Dr. Mel & Frankie Johnson-Norwood

• Dr. Kathryn Kelly

• Ed Savoy

Welcome Experience

• Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association

• Ed Savoy

Shirts

• Bert & Linda King

• Eric Morson

• Brian Parker

• Ed Savoy

Custom Sponsorships

• Adam Cantley & Joe Panzer

• Jessica & Jack Lee

• Dr. Mel & Frankie Johnson-Norwood

• Dollie O’Neill

• Jason & Sarah Ortiz

• Dr. Kirk Randazzo

• Akilah Thomas

At the Helm: Jarrard Harris

Leading the ensemble was Jarrard Harris, a distinguished saxophonist and educator with a deep foundation in both jazz performance and pedagogy. A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Harris studied at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music under Rick VanMatre, Pat Harbison, and Marc Fields. He earned his master’s in jazz studies at DePaul University under mentors Bob Lark, Tim Coffman, and Marc Colby.

Now based in Chicago, Harris serves on the jazz faculties of Northwestern University, Columbia College Chicago, and the City Colleges of Chicago, while also directing jazz studies for the Chicago Public Schools’ Advanced Arts Education Program at Gallery 37. A founding board member of the Jazz Education Network and current board member of the Jazz Institute of Chicago, Harris brought both rigor and inspiration to the ensemble.

In recognition of his extraordinary leadership for the inaugural Kappa Kappa Psi Intercollegiate Jazz Band, the national chapter conferred upon Professor Harris Honorary Membership.

A Milestone for Kappa Kappa Psi — and a Charge for Our Future

We urge all active and alumni chapters to embrace, advocate for, and support the jazz artists on your campus. These musicians are not operating on the fringe — they are innovators, leaders, and storytellers of one of America’s most treasured musical traditions.

Reach out to your jazz ensembles. Get to know the students behind the music — the soloists, rhythm players, composers, and improvisers. Invite them to your service events. Make room for their creativity, their vision, and their voices.

Ensure they know what Kappa Kappa Psi stands for. Show them the powerful opportunities for leadership, service, and brotherhood available to them — opportunities that are just as meaningful for jazz musicians as they are for their concert and marching band peers.

Most importantly, consider these artists for membership. If we say we serve college and university bands, then we must mean all of them — including jazz. Our organization grows stronger, more inclusive, and more representative when jazz artists are welcomed into our ranks.

Let the formation of the Kappa Kappa Psi Intercollegiate Jazz Band be more than a milestone. Let it be the start of a culture shift — toward recognition, inclusion, and celebration of the full range of musical expression within our band communities.

Let us be a brotherhood that not only preserves tradition — but boldly champions innovation.

A brotherhood that values every ensemble, every sound, every story.

Our Path Forward

Courage, Creativity, and Collaboration

Allison Leemann National President, TBΣ

A new biennium is here - not a destination, but a new beginning on our shared journey. Each new term offers us the chance to pause, reflect, and set our intentions for the future. We inherit the lessons, traditions, and successes of the members who came before us, and we carry the responsibility to build upon them with vision and care. My hope is that as we move forward, we see this time as part of a larger continuum in which each of us plays a role in shaping the future of Tau Beta Sigma.

My vision for these next two years is simple at its core: Tau Beta Sigma will thrive through courage, creativity, and collaboration. Together, these qualities can guide us through change, inspire our programs, and deepen the bonds that connect us to one another and to the college bands we serve.

Courage will be our compass. Leadership asks us to step into uncertainty with strength, to be willing to face challenges honestly, and to stand firmly for our Values. Our world, our campuses, and our bands continue to change rapidly. It takes courage to respond with openness to possibility, to pursue growth even when it stretches us, and to affirm our Mission of serving bands and empowering women in the band profession. That courage is not always loud or dramatic - it often shows up in small, steady acts. It is present when a Chapter officer leads their first meeting, when a Sister offers support to a fellow member who is struggling, or when we challenge ourselves to try something unfamiliar because it might help our Chapters and bands thrive.

Today, we are called to embody the same courage as our Founders as we face new realities on our campuses. It may mean advocating for the needs of your band when resources are limited, or addressing difficult conversations within your Chapter with honesty and compassion. Courage, in these moments, lights the way toward growth and resilience.

Creativity will shape our path forward. Music is the heartbeat of our Sorority, and it teaches us how to listen, adapt, and bring something new into the world. Just as a musician blends technique with expression, our leadership, service, and Sisterhood thrive when we approach them with imagination and artistry. Creativity invites us to try new approaches while still honoring the traditions that ground us. It reminds us that there is no single way to serve our bands, no single way to lead, and no single way to build community.

From designing innovative service projects, to finding fresh ways to recruit and engage members, to building bridges across campuses and communities, creativity ensures that we remain vibrant and relevant in our work. It can also be a powerful source of joy. Think of the energy that comes from a band trying new repertoire, or the excitement of a Chapter finding a new way to celebrate accomplishments. That spark is what keeps us moving forward.

Collaboration will be our strength. No one leads alone, and

no one serves alone. At its best, our Sorority has always been a collective effort - Active Members, Alumni, Sponsors, and Directors of Bands working together to serve something larger than ourselves. When we work together, our collective strength makes it possible to serve bands and one another with greater impact. Collaboration is more than teamwork; it is the willingness to listen deeply, to honor different perspectives, and to find harmony in our diversity.

These qualities - courage, creativity, and collaboration - are not lofty ideals reserved for leadership roles. They are everyday practices that belong to all of us. They show up when a Chapter officer tries a new idea, when a Sister speaks up for what they believe in, and when we share in the joy of making music together. They align with the Five Qualities and the Eight Essential Factors that generations of members have held close, reminding us that leadership is not just about position - it is about character, consistency, and care.

At the heart of this vision is you. I want these next two years to mean something real for every member of Tau Beta Sigma. I want you to find belonging, to feel the joy of service, and to recognize your own growth as a musician, leader, and person. The programs we celebrate and opportunities we build nationally must connect to the experiences you live in your Chapters and bands. They should deepen your sense of purpose and remind you why this organization has mattered to generations of members before usand will continue to matter for the generations that will follow.

This biennium, we will continue aligning our work with the Sorority’s Mission, Vision, and Values. That means ensuring our programs are sustainable, that our leadership development is impactful, and that our service leaves a legacy. It means being attentive to the health of our Chapters and the wellbeing of our members. And it means celebrating the joy of music - the reason we are here in the first place.

This moment in our history is not without its challenges. But I believe it is filled with possibility. If we commit to leading with courage, embracing creativity, and practicing collaboration, we will continue to build a Sorority that is strong, inclusive, and transformative. My hope is that each of you will take a moment to reflect: What does courage look like for you this semester? Where might you bring creativity to your Chapter’s work? How can you collaborate more deeply with your band and your Sisters? Small steps in these areas will shape our collective future.

Your dedication to Tau Beta Sigma is what makes our future so promising. Together, we will step into that future with confidence - grounded in our Purpose, uplifted by Sisterhood, and inspired by the music that connects us. And in doing so, we will write the next stage of our Sorority’s journey: one defined by courage, creativity, and collaboration.

Musings on the Second Century of KKΨ

Dr. Nic Rorrer

National President, KKΨ

Six years ago we concluded our National Convention in Stillwater, OK celebrating 100 Years of Fraternity. The air was hot and the hope was high that there were only great things ahead for us and the college band movement. Kappa Kappa Psi was at its highest membership levels in its entire existence and we truly existed in an era of excess. I myself, was stepping in to be the first elected Chair of the Alumni Association Board of Directors and I was ready to have the conversation to expand and grow our Alumni Association to better support our Chapter members.

And then that all changed.

For any of us that know our founding year, our 100-year celebration was in 2019, and anyone reading this article near when it is originally published knows what happens next. For the next seven months we move forward as a Fraternity and start to ramp up for the biennium to come. Then we all get told to stay home for two weeks and as a National Council we wait to see if we have to cancel District Conventions, or if the lockdown will lift. Alas, we cancel District Convention and we “Pivot.” Non-stop do we pivot. We go from an organization that rarely had online meetings to one that exclusively operates online. We hold our initiation rituals online - robbing them of their performance that breathes life into them. Bands eventually return in the fall, 6 to 10 feet apart. We continue to limit in person interactions robbing us of our greatest joy - the companionship of our fellow Brother. But at the end of the day, we make it through and reunite in person in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2021.

However, returning in person doesn’t bring back those things we lost. For some of us we lost our “Kappa Kappa Why,” while for some of our Chapters we lost our institutional memory. We asked questions like “How do we run a district convention?” or “How do we best run a Chapter meeting?” or most importantly “How do we convince people to join Kappa Kappa Psi?” At this moment we were fundamentally changed, but we didn’t fully comprehend how much we were changed. So we set forth, to ReCharge the Brotherhood - to find those bonds that hold us together. To go to rituals that unite us as an organization, to put energy into our in-person events, and to give Chapters the basics they needed to succeed. We would stumble plenty, but we started to march forward and ended up at our National Convention in Orlando, Florida during the summer of 2023.

Despite our first steps forward from 2023 to 2025, we weren’t back to a new normal yet. Our membership numbers were still falling, which called for a higher increase in our membership dues. But as an organization, we started to heal. After learning how to stumble in the first two years after the pandemic, we got better at finding our footing. Chapters started to recruit more members and we walked on Our Kappa Kappa Psi Journey together. In the process of this healing, we found more things that were broken - be it some of our working relationship or practices. Yet we persisted and we moved forward, drawn to the idea that to find our new normal we had to understand the Kappa Kappa Psi Journey as a collection of Individual Journeys while embracing those things that make us who we are - service, musicianship, leadership, and brotherhood.

And eventually, we ended up in Lexington, Kentucky. We showed up a little tired from all the work we had spent doing the past two years, but we showed up.

And. It. Was. Magical.

In my 18 years as a Brother of this Fraternity, I have never been to a better Convention. This convention was special because it was a celebration of Kappa Kappa Psi and most importantly the people. As the week marched forward, you could feel the energy in the air and the bonds of fellowship and the spirit of leadership grow throughout the week. When I say it was magical, I truly mean it. Watching our passionate student leaders change in a short four days to be ready to tackle the challenges that they will face when they return home is what makes this work worth it at the end of the day. That energy is what we have been searching for since the pandemic.

To me it was truly an honor bestowed and a privilege granted to be elected as the National President of the Fraternity during this convention. It was also the moment of a lifetime to introduce my plan for the next two years entitled “The AEA Way.” The AEA Way itself is meant to be a reflection on who we fundamentally are as an organization and as individuals. To me those reflections always bring me back to the concept that Kappa Kappa Psi is an active-centered organization that aims to develop leaders through the principles of service, musicianship, and Brotherhood. Aligned with this, and our ritualistic values, “The AEA Way” has five main points of:

• Continuing the Kappa Kappa Psi Journey

• Enhancing the Membership Experience Beyond the Road to Wisdom

• Expanding our Volunteer Pipeline

• Aligning Across All Component Parts of the Fraternity

• Bringing a Sense of Joy to All the Work We Do

As we left one of our best National Conventions to date, all I could think of was how we had finally started the second century of the Fraternity. The long road of coming out of the pandemic plus the celebration of our collective Journeys is what brought us to this point we had been striving for since 2019.

Leaving that National Convention as the Fraternity’s 50th National President has me excited for our future but also has me reflecting upon how much work we have left to do. There are still scars and wounds that were revealed by the pandemic that we have to work on healing as we go forward. Yet I truly believe that as long as we march shoulder to shoulder with each other that we can and will move forward. Implanted in the very heart and soul of our Fraternity is the concept of Striving for the Highest and doing that together in love and fellowship. When we work together, and we move forward with an aligned purpose and cause, we can move mountains. We have done it before, we will do it again, I have no doubt.

So as I said in the very first moments of this biennium, let’s get to work.

The Other Side of Membership Education

Marc Renaud

National Vice President for Membership & Expansion, KKΨ Brothers,

Membership Education consists of two key components: the education of our membership candidates, known as The Road to Wisdom, and our continuing membership education. The Road to Wisdom is a program and resource we utilize effectively, creating a strong foundation for the educational journey of our new brothers. However, the second component is often overlooked.

While we have dedicated significant time to recruitment and the Road to Wisdom—efforts that are undoubtedly valuable—it is now time for us to grow in new ways. We must continue to recruit quality members for our band programs and engage in our Strive for 5 initiative to ensure the sustainability of our chapters. We need to bring in new brothers to enhance our band programs. However, we cannot forget about our current brothers. My challenge to you is to invest in yourselves through continuing membership education.

Far too often, I hear about disengaged brothers—those who have lost their passion and feel stuck in a rut. I love our service; I love serving the bands and the behind-the-scenes work that makes concerts and rehearsals possible. But we are more than that. We are leaders in our band program, supporting and promoting its existence without wavering. Being a brother is not a one-way street of commitment. While we pour countless hours of energy into what we love, we must not forget ourselves and our personal journeys.

Let us remember the beginning of our third purpose: “[t]o stimulate campus leadership.” Or consider our creed, which concludes with “each member will strive for the highest.” We do not become leaders overnight, and our growth does not end with becoming a brother.

Now, let’s discuss the how. How do we ensure we are investing in our brothers to foster growth? First, we need to dedicate time and space for this. It’s easy to get bogged down with chapter meetings, committee meetings, setup, teardown, practices, service projects, and more. We should establish a dedicated time every month (or even twice a month) where we give ourselves the grace, time, and freedom to step away from these tasks and instead invest in ourselves. I challenge you to do this at least once a month throughout the year.

1. Topic Generation: Allow brothers to create a list of topics or ideas that will help the chapter grow. This could include areas like musicianship, leadership, or chapter operations. Sometimes, the knowledge we need is already in the room. We can lean on each other to share our expertise and experiences that have fostered our growth. Additionally, we can draw on national programs for further insights.

2. Inner Circle: The Inner Circle is a phenomenal tool for reflecting on and discussing our ritual. Very rarely do we take the time to truly dive into the words, meanings, and lessons from our rituals. These insights can be applied not only to our band programs but also to our lives. The Inner Circle teaches

us to reflect and find meaning in our common commitments, values, and ideals—a skill that will serve us well beyond our college years. Reflecting and finding meaning in what you do is one of the most powerful motivators for people.

3. Founders’ Circle: The Founders’ Circle is a leadership development program that brothers can engage in. It offers programming that focuses on leadership as an individual, within a group, and as a visionary—someone who seeks to change or transform large groups. These skills will help us leave a positive impact on our college bands and are transferable to working in teams after college.

When we take the time to invest in ourselves and our brothers, share our talents, and reengage with our ritual, we can rediscover our passion and excitement for this organization. There’s a reason we dedicate a month to leadership. There’s a reason a key goal is for brothers to attend Founders Circle talks, complete the online program, or host a leadership workshop for your band.

Our journey of learning never stops; we are lifelong learners committed to pushing ourselves to new heights. Membership in Kappa Kappa Psi is a commitment to perpetual growth and striving for the highest.

I urge you to take this year not only to invest time in your bands and future brothers but also in yourselves. What makes this brotherhood special is its people, and what better way to continue growing our organization than by investing in each individual? Growing ourselves will, in turn, grow the band programs we hold dear. Rooting our future starts with us—this brotherhood—and giving ourselves permission to grow.

Make a Plan Programs in the New Biennium

Arupa Gopal-Campbell

National Vice President for Programs, KKΨ

As we start the new biennium, we examine ways to be more clear regarding our Fraternity programs. There are many ways to recognize the good work being done by our chapters and to reward Brothers for their achievements. However, it can be difficult to understand the purpose and process for all of them. One way to approach this is to create a timeline for the year and plan to focus on certain programs during the relevant periods. Full information can be found at kkpsi.org/ programs.

The Beginning of the Semester

Consider your potential needs that can be supported by grants. This gives you time to look ahead and meet with your Sponsor/ Director of Bands to see what would be most helpful for both the chapter and the band program.

• Matching Grant – Provides up to $1,000 twice per year to assist college and university bands in bringing guest conductors and performing artists to campus. Funding supports programming and concerts and is available even to institutions without a Kappa Kappa Psi chapter.

• Leadership Grant – Promotes leadership development and skill training in line with the mission and values of Kappa Kappa Psi. Funds may be used to bring one or more speakers to Fraternity events or campus leadership programs. Awards are up to $1,000, with up to $1,500 available for District Convention programming.

• Chapter Development Grant –Supports training in leadership and chapter operations for brothers and band programs where chapters of Kappa Kappa Psi are located. Provides up to $1,000 to bring presenters to chapter events. Applications are reviewed and approved by the National Council.

The End of the Semester

Encourage Brothers to apply for the AEA

Scholarship to reward those who strive for the highest in everything they do and recognize academic excellence. The Fall deadline is January 1 and the Spring deadline is July 1. The scholarship awards up to $2,000 to eligible brothers that represent the best of Kappa Kappa Psi by balancing academics and extracurricular involvement and serve as role models for their fellow brothers.

Quarterly (March, June, September, December)

Schedule regular time with the chapter to evaluate eligibility for other awards and recognition that are considered on a rolling basis.

• National Service Spotlight –Highlights outstanding service projects completed by Kappa Kappa Psi chapters each year. Selected projects (three per quarter) are featured on social media, recognized at Fraternity events, awarded certificates, and receive $100 grants

• Celebrate a Brother – Showcases Brothers who go above and beyond in serving their bands, campuses, or communities. Stories are shared with the Fraternity to honor and inspire others.

• Various Fraternity awards to recognize Outstanding Sponsors, Excellence in Academics, and several others found at kkpsi.org/awards.

If the chapter can make a plan to check in at varying points during the year to evaluate eligibility, there may be a greater chance for receiving recognition and support. For our part, the Fraternity plans to prompt members at appropriate intervals and make sure communication is clear. We hope that if all sides think carefully about the best process to consider all of our programs, we can celebrate great work all throughout the biennium.

Maria Hisey Epsilon Xi

DistinguisheD scholar

Emory Lewis Iota Gamma

DistinguisheD scholar Mia Trocchi Iota

Delaney Johnson Zeta Chi

Isabella Marasco Nu Gamma

DistinguisheD scholar Sophia Freemyer Alpha Omega

DistinguisheD scholar

DistinguisheD scholar

DistinguisheD scholar

DistinguisheD scholar Patrick Wolfe Nu Gamma

The Lessons I Carry

Reflections on Leadership, Management, and the Journey Beyond

Bang T. Co

Immediate Past National President, KKΨ

I used to believe that leadership meant always having the answers. That if I worked hard enough, showed up consistently, and cared deeply, the rest would fall into place. But what no one tells you about leadership, authentic leadership, is that it’s less about being right and more about being real. It’s less about presenting strength and more about learning how to hold space for vulnerability, for ambiguity, and for the quiet in-between moments when the path ahead is anything but clear.

Serving as National President of Kappa Kappa Psi has been one of the greatest honors of my life, not because of the title itself, but because of what it represented. As the first Asian American elected to lead this Brotherhood, the weight of this role was never just symbolic. It carried the responsibility of representation, the burden of legacy, and the constant challenge of navigating the space between who I was and who I am still becoming. Leading meant learning in real time. Uplifting others meant doing so even as I was healing myself. And opening doors for others often meant fumbling for the light switch in dark, unfamiliar rooms. It was never about being perfect; it was about being present. And in that presence, I found purpose.

As I close this chapter of my fraternal journey, I find myself returning again and again to one word: gratitude

To every Brother who showed up at our 2025 National Convention in Lexington, whether in person, online, or in spirit, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. And to every person who supported our journey throughout this biennium, from our Active Members to our Alumni, from Chapter Sponsors and Directors of Bands to our incredible volunteers, from our National Headquarters staff to the many donors who believed in our mission, thank you. Your time, your presence, your resources, and your belief made all the difference.

Together, we created something powerful. Even in a biennium

marked by turbulence, disagreement, uncertainty, and change, we found a way to move forward, not perfectly, but purposefully. We found our rhythm by focusing on three key principles: Clarity. Consistency. Collaboration.

And the result? A Brotherhood that didn’t just endure. We adapted, innovated, and rediscovered what it means to march shoulder to shoulder. This article is neither a list of accomplishments nor a final goodbye. Instead, it’s a reflection — a collection of leadership and management lessons learned in moments of triumph and trial, and a recognition that this messy, beautiful thing we call the Kappa Kappa Psi Journey is far from over.

With that, I share these lessons below not just as a capstone of my time in office, but as a reflection of what we’ve all lived through together. These lessons are not mine alone; they belong to all of us.

Five Leadership Lessons That Changed Me:

1. Leadership is Not a Spotlight. It’s a Mirror.

Leadership, at its core, is not a performance; it’s a profound reflection. When I stepped into this role, I thought the most important thing would be the spotlight: the platform, the expectations, the decisions I would make publicly. But I quickly realized that true and authentic leadership reveals far more about who you are than about what you do.

The mirror of leadership forced me to confront my fears: the fear of being wrong, the fear of disappointing others, and the fear of not living up to the title. And yet, those same reflections also illuminated my growth. I saw moments of grace, growth, forgiveness, and resilience I didn’t know I had.

When you are entrusted with leading others, you no longer get to hide from yourself. You’re constantly confronted with your own habits: how you listen, how you speak, how you handle pressure, and how you respond to failure.

Takeaway: Leadership is the ongoing practice of self-awareness. The next time you’re in a leadership position, ask yourself: What am I learning about myself in this moment? The more you see, the more fully you can lead.

2. You Can’t Lead What You Don’t Listen To.

During some of our toughest chapters last biennium, I was reminded again and again that listening is not a passive act, but one of the most active, vulnerable, and courageous choices a leader can make.

Leadership often tempts us into speaking first. Into solving. Into fixing. But what people really need, especially during times of confusion, conflict, or change, is to know they’ve been heard. Not just nodded at, not just placated, but deeply and sincerely heard.

The best decisions I made in office weren’t the ones that came from instinct or policy—they were the ones shaped by feedback, story, and collective wisdom. And the hardest moments were often those where I hadn’t listened closely enough—or had listened, but failed to act.

Takeaway: If you want to build trust, listen first. And if you really want to lead, listen again. Before every policy, every project, every plan, simply ask yourself: Who needs to be in this conversation, and who’s missing?

3. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay.

One of the most unexpected things about leadership is the emotional loneliness that can come with it. You’re visible, but not always seen. Responsible, but not always supported. Everyone assumes you’re okay, so you start pretending you are.

This lesson was humbling. I had to learn to recognize the signs of burnout. To admit when I was carrying too much. To allow my closest circle to care for me the way I tried to care for everyone else.

And perhaps most importantly, I had to unlearn the toxic belief that vulnerability is weakness. In truth, vulnerability became the bridge between me and the people I served. When I showed up as my whole self, and not just as a title, others felt safe to do the same.

Takeaway: Whether you’re leading a team or just holding space for a friend, remember: you don’t have to be okay all the time to be effective. The most trustworthy leaders are those who model wholeness, not perfection

4. Identity Shapes Experience. And That Matters.

As the first Asian American National President, I carried a quiet but constant awareness of how identity shapes leadership: how it shapes how you’re perceived, how you’re received, and how you navigate systems not built with you in mind.

Sometimes, representation brings pride. Other times, it brings pressure. I felt the invisible weight of trying to be everything: culturally competent, emotionally available, strategically sharp, professionally polished. And I realized, pretty quickly, that representation without support can quickly become tokenism. But through it all, I learned this: your identity is not a liability; it is a lens.

And when you lead with authenticity, you open the door for others to do the same.

Takeaway: Your background, your story, your culture…they’re not things to hide or minimize in order to lead. They are your strength And if you’re in a room where others don’t see that, it’s the room that needs changing.

5. Leadership is Legacy in Motion.

There’s a misconception that legacy is something you write at the end of your term. But legacy isn’t a chapter; it’s the sum of your daily choices. It’s how you show up in quiet moments when no one is watching. It’s whether people felt empowered, valued, and heard when working with you.

Legacy is also built in the moments you didn’t get it right; when you apologized, repaired harm, and made space for growth. It’s built when you resist ego and elevate others. It’s built when you leave things better than you found them. The legacy of the last biennium wasn’t one grand accomplishment. It was in the countless small decisions made with intention, integrity, and love.

Takeaway: You are building your legacy right now; in every email you send, every voice you elevate, and every standard you set. Ask yourself: What kind of legacy am I leaving in this room, in this relationship, in this season?

Five Management Lessons I’ll Never Forget:

1. Clarity is Kindness. Vagueness is a Setup.

If leadership is vision, then management is translation, turning big goals into clear expectations. Early in the biennium, I found myself frustrated when things didn’t go as planned, only to realize that I hadn’t made the plan clear in the first place.

Clarity is not about micromanaging; it’s about trust. It’s about respecting people enough to set them up for success by being honest, specific, and timely. The clearer you are, the more freedom others have to do great work.

Takeaway: Whether you’re leading a committee or hosting a meeting, clarity saves time, builds trust, and prevents burnout. Ask: Have I made the expectations, deadlines, and purpose absolutely clear?

2. People Will Surprise You—If You Let Them.

Some of the most incredible moments of our biennium came when someone stepped up unexpectedly. A Brother from a small chapter offering big ideas. A committee member taking the initiative and leading boldly. These moments happened because they were invited and trusted.

Micromanagement kills innovation. But empowerment, with guidance and belief, breeds excellence. The greatest resource we have in Kappa Kappa Psi is the passion and potential of our people.

Takeaway: When someone offers help, don’t just say yes, but also equip them to lead. Look for the quiet ones, the overlooked ones, the unexpected ones. The future of our Brotherhood lies in the hands we haven’t yet reached.

3. Systems Are Only As Strong As The People Who Trust Them.

immense gratitude, deep humility, and unwavering faith in those who

The Importance of Social Media for Your Chapter

Misty Lovejoy

National Vice President for Communication & Recognition, TBΣ

“The power of social media is in its ability to connect, inspire, and empower.” - Charlene Li, author and leadership expert

As your chapter seeks to grow in membership, strengthen the band community, and share your achievements, the role of social media has become increasingly vital. In today’s digital world, maintaining an active and strategic online presence can significantly enhance your chapter’s visibility, engagement, and overall success.

Social media platforms provide an accessible way to showcase your chapter’s activities and culture beyond the boundaries of your campus or local community. Regular updates about events held, member recognitions, and other milestones can help to foster a sense of pride and ownership among the members of your chapter. At the same time, social media also allows your chapter to connect with prospective members, alumni of your chapter, and the broader community, widening their reach around the nation.

A well-managed social media presence can serve as a powerful recruitment tool. Sharing engaging content such as: photos from rehearsals or performances, member spotlights, and upcoming service events or fundraisers, gives potential members an authentic glimpse into what your chapter may offer or is up to. Consistency in online engagement also helps to ensure current members continue to be motivated and involved, which strengthens the overall cohesion of the chapter.

Furthermore, social media provides an immediate platform to promote upcoming events and share highlights from past activities. Celebrating successes whether through band achievements, award recognitions, or service events, not only boosts chapter morale but also demonstrates the chapter’s positive impact to the band, your university/community, and Tau Beta Sigma. This visibility can help to attract new supporters for your chapter events or fundraisers and also help to showcase your chapter’s community on a national level.

Maintaining strong relationships with alumni is also essential for chapters. Social media makes it very easy to share updates, invite alumni to events, and recognize their various contributions. These connections can help to foster ongoing mentorship, support, and the preservation of your chapter’s legacy, which can provide longterm benefits for the chapter and Tau Beta Sigma as a whole.

This all ties directly to Tau Beta Sigma’s core values of cultivating leadership, educational achievement, music appreciation, and community development. By sharing your chapter’s story online, you demonstrate your chapter’s leadership, appreciations, and achievements. Using social media to engage and inspire others reflects a commitment to service, while fostering an active digital community strengthens bonds among sisters, alumni, and supporters. In this way, your online presence becomes a reflection of your dedication to these values, helping to build a vibrant and

connected chapter.

To end, integrating social media into your chapter’s outreach and communication strategy is more than just a trend of the last 10-15 years, it is a strategic necessity. By sharing your chapter’s story online, you can attract new members, celebrate your successes, and build a stronger, more connected community. Embracing social media as a key part of your chapter’s growth can open new doors and ensure your chapter’s and Tau Beta Sigma’s continued vitality.

National Scholarship Recipients

Patsy Drury Hejl

Outstanding Musical Achievement Scholarship

Dayton Scholz Xi

Outstanding Student Leaders Scholarship

Abby Rakes

Delta Kappa

Wava Scholarship

Dustie Hall

Gamma Xi

Legacy Scholarship

Damien Ehie

Gamma Xi

Finding Value in Your Chapter’s Programming

Monika Monk

National Vice President for Special Projects, TBΣ

Picture this: In the beginning of the semester, you planned a variety of events for your chapter. You send out the calendar, sign-up sheets, and an outline of each event to everyone. Although there was great participation in the first couple of events, you notice that less and less chapter members are participating throughout the semester. In addition, less and less band members are attending your events, and it’s starting to affect future recruitment.

Common questions when this or similar scenarios occur are: “What can make our Chapter stand out? Or “How do I get more people to participate in our events?” The common answer that you may hear is “Use our National Programs.” However, what does this mean and how can you and your Chapter create value by using our National Programs.

When we want to find value in our programming, the first step is to define what your values and goals are and see where everyone aligns. You can do this by having each Chapter Member reflect on why they joined the organization, what their personal values and goals are, and how they align with our organization’s Mission, Vision, and Ideals. Doing this exercise can help members remember their why and find their drive again.

The next step is to find innovative ways to implement your service events, workshops, and National programs. Sometimes, doing the same thing because of tradition can get boring or may not hold as much value to others as it once did. Use our Chapter Operations

Mary Lu Brooks

Guidebook and National Programs Guide for ideas on how you can participate. In addition, try asking other Chapters how they are participating in our National Programs and compare to what your Chapter has done.

The last step is to invite others to see the service and events that you do. A lot of times, Chapters may tend to close themselves off when they do service events and only invite nonmembers to recruitment events. Try inviting nonmembers to a service event or project and show them the types of service that we do. You can do this by making an announcement before and or after rehearsals, asking your Director of Bands to invite band members, or posting on social media platforms that your band members are frequently communicating on.

Finding value in your programming will look different for every Chapter. Some Chapters may want to focus on leadership development, while others may want to emphasize community outreach. Just remember that we have several resources available to help you navigate through your programming, such as our Chapter Operations Guidebook, your District Council and Counselors, your Chapter Visitation Associates, and your National Vice President for Special Projects.

We are saddened to announce the passing of 11th National President Mary Lu Brooks. She was a Life Member of the Upsilon Chapter at Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) and, as National President, presided over the 1967 National Convention at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX.

Brooks was born in Ames, IA, on July 23, 1936, to Steve and Lucille Brooks. She was raised on a farm in the Napier Community and graduated from Napier High School. She attended Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, IA, before transferring to ENMU where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and a Master of Arts Degree in Music.

Mary Lu taught elementary music in Seagraves, TX, and Artesia, NM, before moving to Kirtland, NM, where she taught jr. high and high school band and choir for 15 years. Brooks’ immense impact on her students in Kirtland culminated in the Kirtland Central School District honoring her by co-naming their new Performing Arts Center “The Brooks-Isham Performing Arts Center.” Her love for the America Southwest was very dear to her heart: she loved the Native American students and parents, and she spent many hours on the Navajo Reservation visiting and vacationing.

Brooks continued her career in Gallup, NM, where she was a high school choir director, drama coach, and

Building with Purpose

Intentional Recruiting in Tau Beta Sigma

Kelsey Reilly

National Vice President for Membership & Expansion, TBΣ

As we begin a new academic year, chapters across the country are preparing to welcome the next generation of Tau Beta Sigma members. Recruitment season is an exciting time, filled with opportunities to share who we are and what we stand for. But as we look to grow our membership, it’s important to remember that recruitment is not simply about numbers. It’s about people, purpose, and building a sisterhood that reflects our mission and vision.

Tau Beta Sigma exists to serve college and university bands through dedicated service, leadership, and support. Our mission is to empower women in the band profession and to cultivate meaningful leadership and service opportunities for all members. Our vision is a world where college bands are supported by a diverse, inclusive, and passionate community committed to uplifting one another and advancing music.

When we recruit new members, we aren’t just asking them to join an organization—we’re inviting them into a community with shared values and a purpose larger than themselves.

While it may be tempting to measure recruitment success by how many names are on the roster, Tau Beta Sigma’s strength lies in the quality of its membership. A smaller group of members who are deeply committed to our values of service, leadership, diversity, and empowerment will always be stronger than a large group that lacks direction or purpose.

Intentional recruiting means asking:

• Does this person align with our mission?

• Do they bring positive energy, creativity, and a willingness to serve?

english teacher. She then moved to Arizona City, AZ, becoming very involved with the First Presbyterian Church in Casa Grande: singing in and directing the church choir, starting the church’s Hand Bell choirs, and serving as worship director for 10 years. All in all, Mary Lu served in at least one director role within the church’s music program for 21 years. She was also a member of the Central Arizona College Concert Band and Hand Bell Choir during this time. While living in Arizona, Mary Lu also worked for the Arizona City Club, the Arizona City Chamber of Commerce, and served on the governing boards of the Arizona City Club, the Pinal County Development Board, and, for 23 years, was a part of the Pinal County Town Hall Planning Committee.

Tau Beta Sigma 28th National President

• Will they contribute to a culture of belonging and support within the chapter and band program?

Every conversation with a potential member is a chance to show who we are. Recruitment should reflect the same service-minded and inclusive spirit that defines Tau Beta Sigma. This means:

• Sharing your personal stories about why you joined and what Tau Beta Sigma has meant in your journey.

• Emphasizing that we are not simply an honorary society—we are a service-based, people-centered organization.

• Highlighting how our mission and vision connect directly to the band experience and to building future leaders.

Intentional recruitment doesn’t end once bids are extended. It continues throughout the Membership Education Program and into active membership. By being selective, thoughtful, and missiondriven in who we bring into Tau Beta Sigma, we ensure that our chapters remain healthy, our service remains impactful, and our members remain engaged for the long term.

This academic year, let’s commit to recruiting not just for today, but for the future. Every new member is a potential chapter leader, a future district officer, or a lifelong advocate for music and service. By recruiting intentionally—rooted in our mission and vision—we are shaping the Tau Beta Sigma of tomorrow.

Let’s continue to grow not just in size, but in strength, purpose, and impact.

Karon Miller Hammond recalls Mary Lu fondly, stating that she was fortunate to have known her. Karon’s mother, 6th National President Janet West Miller, was in touch with Brooks frequently, as the band director at ENMU, Floren Thompson, was a close friend of West Miller. Janet was honored to provide mentorship to Mary Lu.

Mary Lu was first elected to the Second Vice President position at the 1961 National Convention in Wichita, Kansas. She was then elected to the National Office of First Vice President at the 1963 Convention in Tucson Arizona on the campus of the University of Arizona, which was the 10th Biennial Convention for the Sorority. The 1960s were a great time of growth for the organization, and Brooks played an instrumental role in the development of

what Tau Beta Sigma is today.

During her Presidency, Brooks worked to more clearly define the roles of each National Office, along with providing guidance to provide universal guidance and support to each individual chapter. The National Council under her leadership helped develop our first Chapter Operations handbook, providing every chapter the resources needed to succeed and thrive in the college band environment of the late 1960s.

The last Sorority event that Mary Lu attended was the 2009 National Convention in Phoenix, AZ, but she always had a place in her heart for the Sisterhood. She will be deeply missed, and we will forever honor her memory.

Honoring Our Generosity and Planning for the Future

Evan Thompson Board of Trustees Chair, KKΨ

As we reflect on the 2023-2025 biennium, one thing is abundantly clear: the spirit of service and generosity that defines Kappa Kappa Psi is alive and thriving. Through the collective efforts of brothers, friends, and supporters nationwide, we have seen remarkable growth in contributions that sustain our programs and pave the way for an exciting future of leadership and innovation within college and university bands.

Over the past biennium, hundreds of brothers and friends have contributed to funds that elevate our mission. From one-time gifts to recurring monthly donations, these contributions have directly supported leadership development, scholarships, musical excellence, and the Fraternity’s ability to serve college and university bands.

Our collective efforts have strengthened several cornerstone initiatives, including:

• The Kappa Kappa Psi General Fund - $20,000 raised in support of active members and programming that supports their work on college campuses.

• The Kappa Kappa Psi Trust Fund - $62,000 to provide vital support for scholarships, leadership programming, and special projects.

• The Stan Finck NIB Fund - $12,000 for championing performance excellence and new wind band literature through the National Intercollegiate Band and Commissioning Program.

• The KKPsi Intercollegiate Jazz Band - $14,000 raised through sponsorships to foster new opportunities for students to explore and perform jazz at the highest level.

• AEA Society - $17,000 given to ensure a lasting impact on the legacy of Kappa Kappa Psi.

With a new chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi beginning at the start of the 2025-2027 biennium, we encourage you to think of ways you can give back to the Fraternity. While this article honors and celebrates financial gifts, money is not the only way to contribute to our Brotherhood. We encourage you to honor Kappa Kappa Psi in any way that is meaningful and accessible to you. How will you give back to Kappa Kappa Psi this biennium?

This November, we will be celebrating the 106th Founders’ Day of Kappa Kappa Psi and continuing to build our Fraternity’s Days of Giving. The inaugural members of the AEA Society set a high bar, contributing to the vital work of the Fraternity and making programs like the Intercollegiate Jazz Band a reality. We hope you will join the AEA Society this November with a gift of $151 (or more) and help us invest in the future of Kappa Kappa Psi as we continue to support active members who embody our mission and values every day.

As we look ahead, we celebrate not only the dollars raised but the spirit of brotherhood that endures long after graduation and drives every contribution to fraternal excellence. To all who have given, we extend our sincere gratitude. Your generosity matters, and it inspires all of us as we continue to Strive for the Highest!

Donating to the Tau Beta Sigma Trust Ensures a Future for Bands, Students and Leadership

Jason Dornbush Board of Trustees Member, TBΣ

In practice rooms, football fields, and in concert halls across the country, collegiate bands bring together students of all backgrounds to share in something extraordinary: the universal language of music. However, behind every note played and each halftime show performed is a community of people who have dedicated themselves not only to the music but also to service, leadership, and lifelong friendship.

That community is Tau Beta Sigma. Since 1946, Tau Beta Sigma has been rooted in purpose: supporting collegiate bands and building a framework for students to lead, serve, and grow. The Tau Beta Sigma Trust is the foundation for ensuring this continues for generations to come.

The Trust is more than a financial resource. It is a lifeline that sustains programs, scholarships, and leadership opportunities. It provides students with the chances to grow not just as musicians but as leaders, professionals, and people. The Trust exists thanks to the generosity of alumni, friends, and donors who understand that the true value of music extends far beyond the final collegiate performance.

As a nonprofit organization, Tau Beta Sigma operates with a clear mission: to provide exceptional service to collegiate bands and promote equality and diversity, including empowering women in the band profession. Unlike a business, the Sorority does not exist to generate profit. Every dollar given to the Trust is invested to advance the mission. For donors, this nonprofit status assures that contributions are tax-deductible and carefully managed to produce the greatest impact.

Everyone knows that musicians are disciplined, hardworking, and creative. Years of practice and performance develop habits that make them successful in classrooms, workplaces, and in their communities. Tau Beta Sigma goes one step further. Tau Beta Sigma takes those musicians and provides them with experiences that build leadership, ability, and a dedication to selfless service. Through chapter operations, officer roles, service projects, and participation in national programs, members gain the experience to be successful beyond graduation. Today’s members become tomorrow’s leaders in education, business, healthcare, engineering, and many more fields.

If you ask any member what they gained most from their time in Tau Beta Sigma, you will hear about more than just the band. You will hear about the friendships, service projects, convention experiences, and the sense of belonging. The Trust ensures these

experiences are available to all members.

Scholarships from the Trust help lessen the burden of tuition. When you give to the Tau Beta Sigma Trust, you are not just supporting an organization, you are shaping lives. You are investing in lifelong bonds and memories.

Like a lot of nonprofits, Tau Beta Sigma faces rising expenses, increased needs, and the changes to the higher education population. The Trust is designed to ensure stability in uncertain times and can only do so with donor support.

Your donation ensures that:

• Scholarships continue to reward and encourage academic excellence.

• Leadership opportunities give students the experiences needed for professional and personal success.

• National programs remain accessible.

Rooted in Purpose, Reaching for Tomorrow

The theme of Tau Beta Sigma’s 80th anniversary campaign says it best: “Rooted in Purpose. Reaching for Tomorrow.” For nearly eight decades, Tau Beta Sigma has stood firm on its mission. Now, the Sorority is ready to reach even higher, but can only do so with the help of those who believe in its future.

Donating to the Trust is not just about honoring the past. It is about investing in the students who will be tomorrow’s leaders. When you donate, you ensure that what began in 1946 continues to grow.

Now is the time to act. Whether you are an alumni remembering your own college days, a parent inspired by the growth you’ve seen in your student, or a friend of music who understands its power, you can make a difference.

The Tau Beta Sigma Trust turns donations into experiences, scholarships, and leadership programs. It also ensures that the purpose of serving collegiate bands continues to thrive.

Ask yourself: What better investment is there than in music, leadership, and the future success of students?

Join us in securing that future. Donate to the Tau Beta Sigma Trust today. https://www.tbsigma.org/80th-anniversary

Make Way for Our LAAs

Local Alumni Associations Align with the Fraternity to Complete Crown Pearl Goals

Brittanny Biberston KKΨAA Board of Directors, Chair

The spirit of Kappa Kappa Psi is one of service, commitment, and continuous growth, both for active members and alumni. As we reflect on the lasting impact of our fraternity, one key initiative stands out: Striving for the Highest Means Progress – Not Perfection. The Crown Pearl Goals program has been a great framework for active chapters to engage and empower themselves. As an Alumni Association, we have attempted to provide different options for our Local Alumni Associations, or LAAs, to express and promote their accomplishments as groups of dedicated Brothers. We previously utilized an LAA Event Form as well as now host LAA Highlights on our social media platforms. However, these were not featuring our LAAs to their full potential. It was crucial to provide a program for our Local Alumni Associations to engage with. Thus came the idea of creating Crown Pearl Goals for our LAAs!

Our Crown Pearl Goals offer a framework to guide and encourage LAAs to strive for their highest. It was a priority that they emphasize the importance of leadership, engagement, and service in order to ultimately foster a vibrant and dynamic alumni community. These goals also serve as a reminder that the work we do does not stop at graduation - it continues as we contribute to the success of the organization and communities we serve.

These goals are open to our LAAs from September 1, 2025, to August 31st, 2026. While the specific goals may vary slightly by year, the Crown Pearl Goals are focused around these key areas:

1. Engagement & Participation: Encouraging alumni to stay actively involved with Kappa Kappa Psi through active chapter events, district and national conventions, and community service projects.

2. Leadership Development: Providing alumni with opportunities to take on leadership roles within the organization, whether that’s mentoring current members, serving on national committees, or leading local alumni initiatives.

3. Service to the Band: Continuing the mission of Kappa Kappa Psi to serve college and university bands. Alumni are encouraged to give back by supporting the needs of active band programs, offering resources, or helping to fundraise for music-related causes.

4. Building Connections: Strengthening the bond between alumni and active chapters by fostering networking opportunities, career development, and ongoing social events. This allows for a meaningful exchange of ideas and resources among members of all generations.

5. Sustaining Growth: Ensuring that local alumni associations remain vibrant and sustainable. This includes supporting new LAAs, growing participation, and developing strategies for long-term success.

The Crown Pearl Goals are separated into three different categories: LAA Operation, Building Bridges, and Connection. LAA Operations provide guidance for LAAs to better their internal performance. Building bridges highlights opportunities for LAAs to engage with different programs and professional development opportunities offered by the Alumni Association and Fraternity at large. Finally, the Connection category pushes LAAs to connect with all levels of our organization, from active members to National Council. Achieving the Crown Pearl Goals isn’t a one-time effort—it’s a continuous journey that requires collaboration, creativity, and commitment from all alumni members in your LAA. The 2025-2026 LAA Crown Pearl Goals are as follows:

Category 1 - LAA Operation

1. Submit the LAA Renewal Form and roster by September 1st, 2026

2. Accomplish one of your one year membership goals

3. Accomplish one of your one year social/alumni engagement goals

4. Accomplish one of your one year service/scholarship goals

5. Accomplish one of your one year fundraising goals

Category 2 - Building Bridges

1. Participate in the Founders Circle Training Sessions

2. Have a member of your LAA participate in the Mentorship Program

3. Submit one of your activities to the LAA News section of The Encore/KKPsiAA Website

4. Attend a Fire-Psi-de Chat and/or Quarter Note Forum

5. Listen/watch an episode of The Tempo and/or BOHTalk

Category 3 - Connection

1. Host an activity, provide an act of service, or attend an event hosted by Active Members

2. Engage or collaborate in an event, fundraiser, or activity with another LAA

3. Have a member of your LAA register to attend a District Convention and participate in DAA activities

4. Submit a nomination for an award/grant provided through the KKPsiAA

5. Connect with the National Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi by providing positive feedback to members of HeadQuarters, National Council, and/or Board of Trustees. Can also donate or volunteer service on a National Committee

LAAs are strongly encouraged to participate in the newly established Crown Pearl Goals for this year. To participate, LAAs

can find the submission form both on our KKPsiAA website and in their own personal LAA Google Forms. If they have any questions or concerns, we advise them to reach out to Miranda Cook.

The Crown Pearl Goals are more than just a set of objectives—they are a call to action for alumni to remain engaged, connected, and committed to the values of Kappa Kappa Psi. By following these guidelines, LAAs can strengthen the legacy of the fraternity and ensure that Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association’s mission to support music and bands remains strong for generations to come.

Whether you are a recent graduate or a long-time alumnus, a

District, Joint, new or established AA, your involvement with the Crown Pearl Goals is a meaningful way to continue your journey as a member of our organization. Together, we can achieve new heights, celebrate our successes, and continue to inspire the next generation of Kappa Kappa Psi members.

2025 Biennial Solo Competition

Brittany Biberston KKΨAA Board of Directors, Chair

During the National Convention this past summer the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association hosted the 2025 Biennial Solo Competition. This competition is open to active, conditional, and associate members of Kappa Kappa Psi and allows the winner a chance to perform a solo piece during the banquet at the end of convention. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all those that submitted their solo performances! Choosing four finalists this year proved to be difficult as the talent shown by our students was phenomenal. We are excited to see what this upcoming Biennial Solo Competition will bring in 2027.

After the preliminary judging, we selected four finalists: Grant Bagley, Bella Eneff, Jared Eichler and Lia Pappas. The Alumni Association invited our four finalists to Lexington to perform in front of our panel of judges. It was here that Lia Pappas of the Nu Xi Chapter was awarded the honor of being selected as the Biennial Solo Competition winner!

We again thank Grant, Bella, and Jared as our three finalists and appreciate their dedication to their craft.

Lia Pappas (Nu Xi) performing at the 2025 National Convention Banquet photo by Edgar Canales

2025 Biennial Solo Competition Finalists

Lia Pappas (Nu Xi)

Jared Eichler (Beta Psi)

Bella Eneff (Alpha)

Grant Bagley (Pi)

Empower. Accelerate. Thrive.

A Vision for the 2025–2027 Biennium

Jessica Smith

TBΣAA Executive Council, Chairperson

Since joining the Executive Council, I have had the privilege of watching our Alumni Association grow and flourish. Together, we have taken meaningful steps to strengthen our foundation: refining transition processes, aligning leadership roles, engaging deeply with our strategic plan, and reinforcing our connection with the other national leadership groups. Most importantly, we recommitted to connect and engage meaningfully with our members and return to our roots of service and philanthropy.

Looking ahead to the 2025–2027 biennium, my vision is clear: we will continue building an environment where members not only feel connected, but are also empowered to grow, contribute, and lead. It is time to accelerate our commitments and thrive within the community we have built.

Our Vision Statement

“To accelerate the growth and impact of TBSAA by fostering a thriving community where members are empowered to engage actively, step confidently into leadership, and inspire each other to serve with purpose and passion.”

Key Pillars of the Biennial Vision

1. Empower Leadership & Engagement – Actively identify and cultivate future leaders at all levels while developing sustainable pathways for meaningful, long-term involvement.

2. Accelerate Growth – Create opportunities for professional and personal development through targeted programs, networking, and mentorship.

3. Thrive Together – Build a vibrant community where members feel valued, connected, and motivated to contribute.

As we approach two milestones, the 80th anniversary of Tau Beta Sigma in 2026 and the 20th anniversary of TBSAA in 2027, this vision is not just mine, but ours. It is a call to action for every member to lean in, engage, and help shape the future of TBSAA.

Together, we will build momentum, create lasting opportunities, and ensure that our Association continues to shine as a beacon of service, leadership, and community. Let’s empower, accelerate and thrive—together.

Thank you for Moving and Giving For Greater Bands

The Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association graciously thanks all who made the 10th anniversary of the For Greater Bands 5K a resounding success! With 70 participants and 31 donors, we raised over $2,700 in support of music, wellness, and service.

Proceeds benefited the TBSAA Welcome Experience for the musicians of the National Intercollegiate Band at the 2025 National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky—helping us provide meaningful support, connection, and inclusion for these outstanding performers.

Your generosity and spirit truly embody the ideals of Tau Beta Sigma and keep the tradition strong For Greater Bands!

Kimberly Ahokas

David Alexander

Marissa Archuleta

Elissa Ashley

Debbie Baker

Stacy Bell

Pamela Bennett

Gregory Boike

Lenise Bostic

Ashanti Bryant Foster

Harrison Calvert

Madison Calvert

Tammy Carethers

Sue Carr

Evan Choy

Maddy Collins

Debra Crawford

Lisa Croston

Jacquelyn Crutchfield

Keelia Decker

Michael Desautels

Deann Egan

HaShawn Epps

Tenley Fahey

Leslie Gartin

Mia Grant

Sherronda Henderson

Tamara Henry

Wendy Jacques

Annette Jones-Baskin

Antoinette Kellgren

Sychiquita Lascelles

Allison Leemann

Lisa Legard

Kendra Lewis

Victoria Liu

Nikki Lyons

Jeffrey Makinster

Minna Martin

Malinda Matney

Krystal Mayo

Janae McCloud

Rhonda McKinney

Jordan Miyoshi

Destiny Moore

Maya Morant

Ameenah Muhammad

Kelly Muldowney

Thea Murphy

Gwynn Neves

Carmin Nowlin

Chrissy Oliphant

Erika Pope

Deatrica Pullens

Lia Rall

Aidan Rall

Lance Rall

Adrienne Rall

Preston Ramsey

Zack Rebarchek

Mellinna Ridout

Edward Savoy

Alicia Simpson

Burt Simpson

Zara Simpson

Wendy Smith

Theo Smith

Jessica Smith

Wendy Stewart

Matthew Vargas

Christina Wade

Christy Walker

Kaitlyn Wincup

Eireka Wright

Tyra Yiare-Holloway

Chelsea Zuniga

AWARDS RECAP

TBSAA National Scholarship for Graduate Studies

The Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association proudly announces the 2025 recipients of the TBSAA National Scholarship for Graduate Studies. Awarded annually to Standard and Gold Star members enrolled in or accepted to graduate programs, this scholarship honors alumni who embody the values of Tau Beta Sigma through academic achievement, professional contributions, and commitment to leadership, service, and lifelong learning. We celebrate this year’s honorees and wish them continued success in their advanced studies.

Sue Robash Carr Distinguished Alumni Award

At the 2025 National Convention, the TBSAA proudly honored Monnica B. Rose, Life Member of the Zeta Zeta Chapter at Southern University, with the Sue Robash Carr Distinguished Alumni Award for her outstanding professional achievement and service. A retired Mechanical Engineer, Monnica also served as an International Director on the 2021–2023 Toastmasters International Board and now leads Women of Visionary Influence (WOVI), empowering women to lead with purpose and confidence. Her tireless service and calm strength exemplify the values of Tau Beta Sigma, uplifting our sorority and every community she touches.

LAA Lunchtime Lounge

The Power of Local Networks

Jessica Smith, TBΣAA Executive Council, Chairperson

Brittany Biberston, KKΨAA Board of Directors, Chair

During the National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky, alumni members from the Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Associations, representing 26 local alumni associations (LAAs), gathered for a luncheon and a time of connection. The presence of these local groups highlights the importance of maintaining strong, localized networks within the broader alumni community.

At the event, members not only shared stories and best practices from their LAA experience, but also forged new bonds and welcomed new members. This gathering underscored the vital role that local alumni associations play in fostering a sense of community and continuing the mission of the organizations beyond the collegiate years.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the following individuals and LAAs for their sponsorship of our event:

Mark Almeida

Grace Broder

Kadeem Sabari

Alpha Psi AA (KKΨAA)

Atlanta AA (Joint)

Beta Omicron AA (KKΨAA)

Columbia AA (Joint)

Delta Iota AA (KKΨAA)

Epsilon Omega AA (TBΣAA)

Greater Houston AA (Joint)

Hampton Rhodes AA (KKΨAA)

Lincoln University AA (KKΨAA)

North Central District AA (KKΨAA)

Southern University AA (TBΣAA)

Southwest District AA (Joint)

Western District AA (Joint)

Alumni Connect, Engage, Serve LAAs Shine in the ACES Challenge

Dr. Thea Murphy

TBΣAA

Executive Council, Vice Chairperson and Communications Director

The Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association’s ACES Challenge—Alumni Connect + Engage + Serve—is more than an annual program; it’s a celebration of the enduring impact of Local Alumni Associations (LAAs). Designed to inspire meaningful connections, foster engagement, and encourage service, the challenge highlights how alumni continue to live out the Tau Beta Sigma mission long after their collegiate experience.

Each year, the ACES Challenge brings fresh opportunities for involvement and innovation aligned with national programs, initiatives of the Sorority, and the strategic plan of the Alumni Association. LAAs take on a variety of activities—from alumni gatherings and Women in Music programs to band and community service projects—demonstrating their commitment to the Tau Beta Sigma core values of leadership, service, and sisterhood.

The nine LAAs that completed the 2024-2025 challenge earned the coveted ACES Deck, a symbol of dedication, excellence, and active alumni engagement. This recognition celebrates not only the efforts of each LAA but also the lasting impact they create in their communities.

Below are a few highlights of the connections, engagement, and service from the LAAs that completed the ACES Challenge this year:

• Alpha Chapter Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Hosted an “Alumni Life” presentation to celebrate graduating seniors of the Alpha Chapter, highlighting ways to stay involved with TBS, TBSAA, and LAAs across the Southwest District.

• Alpha Xi Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Launched their first Women in Music Series presentation, Women and Underrepresented Voices in Music, promoting equity and representation in the field of music.

• Atlanta Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Donated and delivered over 2,000 bottles of water to support two high school and five collegiate band programs during the fall marching band season.

• Columbia Area Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Partnered with Fairfield Central and Richland Northeast High Schools to give local band students information about the HBCU collegiate and band experience and support them with their academics and musicianship.

• Epsilon Omega Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Organized Blue Table Talk, a mental health check-in event designed to promote wellness and connection among alumni.

• Epsilon Psi Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Hosted a Vision Board Party and Sisterhood Retreat to empower alumni, strengthen sisterhood, foster community, and celebrate each other.

• Greater Houston Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Engaged in impactful service by organizing and leading a hydration distribution for all the bands participating in the annual Martin L. King, Jr. parade.

• Southern University TBS Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Collaborated with KKPsi Zeta NU AA and alumni of the SU marching band to launch the first annual SU “Human Jukebox” Marching Band Career Day, allowing students to interact with professionals from various fields and learn about career opportunities.

• Southwest District Alumni Association

Challenge Highlight: Donated essential band supplies, including instruments, cleaning items, and reeds, to the Del City Band for the Southwest District Joint Service Project.

We are excited to see how these LAAs and others across the country will empower their members, accelerate their growth, and thrive with the ACES challenge in the 2025–2027 biennium— continuing to connect, engage, and serve with energy, creativity, and purpose.

David Alexander, Jr.

Mark Almeida

Venus Anderson

Abraham Anthony, III

Marissa Archuleta

Lex Baker

Cindy Baker

Debbie Baker

Asia Banks

Krystal Batchelor

Melissa Bays

Hannah Beegle

Ali Beidler

Stacy Bell

Deborah Bell-Harris

Pamela Bennett

Oria Berkley

Dani Blackwell

Greg Boike

Joanna Bonner

Lenise Bostic

Brittany Brown

Sonja Butler

Harrison Calvert

Madison Calvert

Tammy Carethers

Linora Carr

Sue Carr

Kelly Carrington

Jessica Carswell

Reneé Cartee

Constance Castle

Kreshay Caswell

Lance Coochyouma

Ken Corbett

Brandi Cousin Sims

April Cox

Debra Crawford

Lisa Croston

Jacquelyn Crutchfield

Deatrica Cummings

Kaitlyn Curley

Darlene Davis Goodwine

Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association Gold Star Club Members

The Executive Council of the TBΣAA would like to acknowledge and express our gratitude to the dedicated alumni who generously gave an additional donation to the Association through their membership in the GOLD STAR CLUB for the 20242025 year. With these additional funds going toward future goals, the TBΣAA is working to increase grants and scholarships for our members, aid LAAs through grants, create new awards, support events like our For Greater Bands 5k, Growth and Professional Development Program, and find greater service and fellowship opportunities at district and national conventions. You can learn more about our GOLD STAR CLUB and join the the TBΣAA at www.tbsalumni.org

GOLD STAR CLUB MEMBERS

Tia Davis

Tiffani Davis

Vontraciya Davis

Keelia Decker

Olivia DeFilippo

Asa DeShields

Jen DiBenedetto

Phaedra Dinkins

Emily Donovan

Jason Dornbush

Kelly Eidson

Harmona Epps

HaShawn Epps

Tony Falcone

Paige Fell

Gayle Ferguson

Helene Fisher

Chris Foster

Gwyn Fox Stump

Willie Frazier

Jailyn Funn

Shandy Gibbons

Ciara Gibbs

Pamela Gilmore

Shameka Golson

Shaniya Graham

Becky Grasser

Tonia Graves

Layla Gray

Tim Greenwell, Jr.

Araneetae Guy

Indya Hairston

Kaitlyn Hale

David Hammond

Karon Hammond

Alan Harriet

Charlotte Harvey

Akierah Hatten

Quolitta Henderson

Sherronda Henderson

Tyler Hern

Carmen Hibbler

Maiya High

Jenny Hirt Renaud

Lashunda Hodges

Alyssa Hollingsworth

Kimberly Holloway

Shauna Holmes

Cynthia Hughey

Ashlie Igwe

Cherrief Jackson

Zobra Jackson

Kimberly Jackson-DeMoss

Wendy Jacques

VanTarsha Jenkins

Andrea Johnson

Kadejah Johnson

Evelyn Jones

Kimberly Jones

Marci Jones

Teresa Jones

Kathryn Kelly

Natalie Kimura

Randy Kitchens

Kimberly Knighton

Katie Langley

Jennifer Leak

Jada W. Lee

Lesleigh Lee

Sonya Lee

Lisa Legard

Kayla Lennon

Betsy Leventhal

Monica Lewis

Stephanne LHommedieu

Lueen Lindsay

Kim Littlejohn

Asia Long

Natalie Lott

Tamara Lovejoy

Christopher Lukasik

Nikki Lyons

Brooke Magstadt

Jennifer Malloy

Heather Marshall

Ava Martin

Clara Mattheessen

Malinda Matney

Bridgett McBride

Ted McCadden, Jr.

Wendy McCann

Rosalyn McDonald

Jahnae McFarland

Rhonda McKinney

Kristin McMullen

Kyarha Meadows-Russell

Melanie Meehan

David Michael

Cathy Miles

Shera Mitchell

Monika Monk

Miya Moon

Aaron Moore

Destiny Moore

Ivania Morales

Caleb Morris

Tundra Morris

Eric Morson

Ameenah Muhammad

Thea Murphy

Mimi Njoroge

Carmin Nowlin

Jayla Nowlin

Dollie O’Neill

Mike Osborn

Brandon Owens

Maisha Paggett

Salli-Tymna Parker

Ariel Paul

Starion Pender

Lindsay Pfannenstiel

Collinn Point

Theresa Powell

Chris Pratt

Adrienne Rall

Preston Ramsey

Candi Rankin

Chelsea Rasing

Netta Ratliff

Zack Rebarchek

Kelsey Reilly

Mellinna Ridout

Jennifer Ryder

Catrina Sally

Jynessa Sampson

Nicole Sanchez

Brittany Sandle

Savannah Sargent

Edward Savoy

Amber Scott

Carletta Scott

Crystal Scott

Jahn Scott

Jennifer Scott

Mariah Scott

Tori Seymour

Sharae Sharp

Shuan Shepherd

ClinTonya Shorter

Kimbi Sigle

Zara Simpson Muller

Greta Singleton

Kristina Sloan

Yvette Sloan

Jazzlyn Smith

Jessica Smith

Shirley Stamp

Wendy Stewart

Jacob Stover

Felecia Studimire

Regina Swanson

Lizzy Sykora

Ashley Tanksley

Senta Taylor

Jessica Thomas

Nyaesia Thompson

Ericka Thrower

Julia Tordo

Amber Tubbs

Omaria Tucker

Regina Tucker

Keishauna Turner

Andrea Walker

Jessica Walton

Georgette Washington

Shayla Watson

Kathy Webster

Bridgette Welch

Erica West Green

Braeden Weyhrich

Gloria White

Terri White

Leeann Wieser

Alexandria Williams

Katherine Williams

Shann Williams

Nina Williams

Paula Williams

Eireka Wright

Patrice Wyatt

Marcus Wyche

Tyra Yiare-Holloway

Chelsea Zuniga

VICKY

MARGARET GEORGE

FEBRUARY

MARGARET GORBANDT

CARLDON

President Dr. Nicholas Rorrer nic@kkpsi.org

Vice President for Membership & Expansion Marc Renaud mrenaud@kkpsi.org

Vice President for Programs Arupa Gopal-Campbell arupa@kkpsi.org

Vice President for Student Affairs JP Davis jpdavis@kkpsi.org

Vice President for Professional Relations Dr. William L. Lake, Jr. wlake@gmu.edu

KKΨ Alumni Association Board of Directors Chair Brittany Biberston biberstonb@kkpsi.org

Immediate Past President Bang Co bangco@kkpsi.org

Board of Trustees

Evan Thompson, Chair; Jessica Lee, Vice Chair; Franklin “Frankie” JohnsonNorwood; Molly Kuchan; Preston Ramsey; Bang Co, Immediate Past President; Dr. Nicholas Rorrer (ex-officio)

KKΨ Alumni Association Board of Directors

Brittany Biberston, Chair; Miranda Cook, Vice Chair; Kelton Ashcraft, Michael Blander, Chris Carpenter, Liz Duncan, Jesse Jackson, Franklin “Frankie” Johnson-Norwood (Board of Trustees Liaison), Dr. Nicholas Rorrer (ex-officio)

Midwest Việt Nguyễn vietnguyen@kkpsi.org

Dr. Anthony Walker walker@kkpsi.org

North Central

Jack Gornick jackgornick@kkpsi.org

Akilah Thomas akilahthomas@kkpsi.org

Northeast

Rassii A. Elliott rassii.elliott@gmail.com

Marcia “Marci” Jones marci@kkpsi.org

Matthew Parent mattparentNED@gmail.com

Southeast

Atia Aroonsakulwongse atiaaaroon@kkpsi.org

Shawn McNeill

smcneill@kkpsi.org

Kennedy Struck kennedy@kkpsi.org

Southwest

Garret Gardenhire garret@kkpsi.org

Kadeem Sabari kadeemsabari@kkpsi.org

Dr. Derek Stoughton stoughton@kkpsi.org

Western

Lance Coochyouma lance@kkpsi.org

Brian Parker bcparker@kkpsi.org

The official publication of Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma

President Allison Leemann allison@tbsigma.org

Vice President for Membership & Expansion Kelsey Reilly kelsey@tbsigma.org

Vice President for Professional Relations Dr. LaToya Webb latoya.webb@tbsigma.org

Vice President for Special Projects Monika Monk mmonk@tbsigma.org

Vice President for Communication & Recognition Misty Lovejoy mistylovejoy@tbsigma.org

TBΣ Alumni Association Executive Council Chair Jessica Smith tbsaa-chair@tbsigma.org

Immediate Past President Leslie Gartin lesler@tbsigma.org

Board of Trustees

Adrienne Rall, Chairperson; Jonathan Markowski, Vice Chairperson; Jason Dornbush; Dr. Ted McCadden; Rosalyn McDonald; Zachary T. Rebarchek; Leslie Gartin, Immediate Past President; Allison Leemann (ex-officio)

TBΣ Alumni Association Executive Council

Jessica Smith, Chairperson; Dr. Thea Murphy, Vice Chairperson; Venus Anderson; Jessica Carswell; Evelyn Jones; Rhonda McKinney

Midwest Abby Rogish Bodin abby@tbsigma.org

Sara Remoy sara_remoy@tbsigma.org

North Central Katie Langley katielangley@tbsigma.org

Jenny Hirt Renaud jrenaud@tbsigma.org

Northeast Indya Hairston indyahairston@tbsigma.org

Dr. Christopher Lukasik christopher@tbsigma.org

Southeast Nikki Lyons nikki@tbsigma.org

Caleb Morris

caleb@tbsigma.org

Holleyanna Tucker Nolen holleyanna@tbsigma.org

Amber Scott amberscott@tbsigma.org

Southwest Ciara Gibbs ciara@tbsigma.org

Chelsea Rasing rasingcr@tbsigma.org

Linnetta Ratliff linnetta@tbsigma.org

Western Camille Dhennin camilled@tbsigma.org

Don’t forget to notify the PODIUM of your new address

Change Service Requested

The Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma history and Kappa Kappa Psi and is included in this indexing project.

The history of our organizations comes alive when you look back at older editions of the publications. As part of the process to document the history of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, we are embarking on this project now so that by 2019 we will be in the position to provide a documented history of our organizations.

If you would like to assist in this project, please contact . You will be able to do this indexing on your on time and schedule.

You will be asked what edition of the Podium or Baton you would like to index (possibly the years you were an active member). We will send you that edition as a PDF document, along with an Excel file to document the issue, instructions, and an example issue.

Thank you for supporting Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. We hope you will see the value in this project and commit to indexing one or more issues.