Zenith Officer Institute 2025: Building Leaders, Strengthening Brotherhood

What better way to kick off the New Year than with brothers from all over the country? 

From January 9-12, Phi Kappa Tau hosted Zenith Officer Institute at the Hilton Rosemont O’Hare in Chicago, Illinois. Now in its third year, this annual leadership summit brought together over 200 participants, including chapter Presidents, Treasurers, Membership Orientation Officers, and Recruitment Chairmen, for a weekend of leadership development, collaboration, and inspiration. 

Participants played a very active role in the program.

For the first time, officer tracks were divided into smaller cohorts, creating intimate breakout sessions that allowed for tailored guidance and meaningful discussions. Attendees explored actionable strategies and gained tools to strengthen their chapters. 

The Phi Kappa Tau Foundation played a critical role in making this program a success. The Foundation provided necessary funding to the program and aided the travel of many undergraduate participants. Their dedication ensured that the financial burden of attending was minimized, allowing more brothers to participate in this life-changing experience. Phi Kappa Tau extends its sincere gratitude to the Foundation for their unwavering support. Through the sale of “Badges of Honor and Credit”, small stickers participants can add to their name-tags to show alumni support, the Foundation instilled a meaningful spirit of philanthropy into the entire event. 

Flores delivering his Keynote Address.

Guillermo Flores, Southern Illinois ’08, founder of the successful Fraternity marketing platform Fraternity Social Media, delivered the keynote address. His powerful insights encouraged brothers to embrace innovative storytelling techniques to better market their fraternity experience and amplify the impact of Phi Kappa Tau in their communities. 

Michael Wheeler, Kentucky ’22, inspired attendees to continue their commitment to service, celebrating a remarkable 1000% increase in SeriousFun camp volunteerism last year. Wheeler emphasized the profound impact of serving children with serious illnesses, motivating brothers to take the next step in leadership through service. 

Councilors were able to make strong connections with undergraduate participants.

With National President Mike McCrum, Texas State ’75,  and CEO Matt Arnold, Southern Illinois ’24 ,delivering the opening and closing of the event – the men were primed to learn, and left feeling energized for the semester.  As Gamma Mu at Bradley University shared on Instagram, “We look forward to having our officers share all the information and knowledge gained through this conference.” Similarly, Alpha Omega at Baldwin Wallace reflected, “It was inspiring to connect with brothers from other chapters.” 

Phi Kappa Tau also extends a heartfelt thank-you to all the volunteers—both within and outside the organization—whose dedication and support made the weekend a success.  

The Zenith Officer Institute 2025 exemplified the essence of Phi Kappa Tau: developing men of character into Men of Distinction. 

To Go Far, One Must Take the First Step

By Chad Corbitt, Florida State '06  

(This piece was taken from our the Fall 2024 issue of The Laurel, click here to read the full issue.)

In this issue of the Laurel, you’ve seen many of Phi Taus most loyal volunteers, and Chad Corbitt, Florida State '06, can certainly be included among those names. As a new Foundation Trustee, Corbitt will continue to give his time to the betterment of our Foundation and Fraternity. However, the story below is not of his time volunteering for Phi Tau but detailing his recent mission trip to Guatemala. Corbitt’s dedication to serving others is the embodiment of our Fraternity’s most sacred values, and hopefully it inspires you to take one small step in service of a cause you’re passionate about.  

My time is split working for a family office on their alternative investment strategy and an educational VR tech company. I’m a member of the Beta Iota chapter at FSU and was initiated in 2006. The fraternity taught me the importance of thinking beyond myself and how to make an impact in the community.  

Whether it was raising money for local schools in Tallahassee, volunteering at the Humane Society with our Chapter Advisor Liz Maryanksi, hosting the world’s largest water balloon flight as our philanthropy, or the myriad of service and philanthropy events our chapter participated in, the fraternity, especially the brothers before me, ingrained in me a deep passion to truly live as a man of character, to do more.   

(Corbitt, Far Left)

Since graduating, my professional life has revolved around entrepreneurship, but giving back to others has remained a constant. I’m fortunate enough to be on several charitable boards, taking time each year to work with Christ’s Starfish Foundation to ensure kids in local hospitals receive Christmas presents. I’m also honored to serve on the Library Board of Advancement for Florida State University. This is a privilege, but at times, it is difficult to balance with everyday life—being married and having a 6-year-old daughter at home adds additional time constraints (for those with young kids, you know this is my polite statement to explain my life is chaos).  

In the summer of 2023, I had the calling and decided to go on my first mission trip to Guatemala, which took place this past July. This decision came with several questions: could I balance this trip with work? Will my wife and daughter accept me leaving for a long time? What should I expect in a foreign country? When you get the call, you must find a way. If you are expecting an article about somebody who has done this kind of trip 100 times and led hundreds of people to do the same—this isn’t that article.  

The invitation to go to Guatemala came from my cousin Karen, who had been on a couple of trips and trusted the organization Medical Missions Outreach (MMO). MMO works with local churches in areas of need. When they arrive at a location, they bring medical supplies and medications, along with dentists, doctors, nurses, medical students, and non-medical volunteers like myself. After signing up for the trip, I didn’t think much about it, but as the days grew closer, I felt nervous, preparing myself by praying about it and asking others to pray for me. I prayed for travel safety, for being able to connect with people although my Spanish is terrible, and that I wouldn’t grow frustrated with my mom, who was a nurse, and decided to surprise join me on the trip.  

The day had come, and I boarded my flight. The day was jampacked with travel—landing in Guatemala City, then endeavoring through a 3-hour bus ride that turned into a 10-hour ride because of a rockslide and car accidents. The extended bus ride allowed me to get to know the medical team and others on the trip with us as we traveled to the city of Retalhuleu. It was impressive to meet people who left their hospital, dental practice, and other jobs, not to mention their families, to help others. We finally arrived at our hotel late at night. The room was tiny and hot, and we were informed we couldn’t drink the water. What was I thinking?  

The next morning, we set up the clinic which was in an open-air school on summer break. Given my nerdy IT background, I made myself useful by figuring out the internet connectivity with cylinder block walls for the electronic medical record (EMR) system and was given my assignment of working in the optical area. My experience to date of optometry was going to get glasses once a year. The staff and volunteers trained me on the initial vision screening and how to decipher what came from the autorefractor to get the sphere, circumference, and axis measurements. We poured through boxes of donated glasses to try to find a pair that was as close as possible to their vision, fit their head – and with some luck – was stylish enough for them to wear.   

In the morning, we went to church in the same building. Nothing makes you aware of all the unused space in your own house taken for granted like immersing yourself in a place where you must make do with the space at hand. The Sunday message focused on three main points: (1) Love your neighbor; (2) Love is often inconvenient; and (3) be on the lookout for people to love. I pondered the connection between our values as fraternity men learned long ago, the message on Sunday, and the school values posted in that tiny school.  

The first morning the clinic was fully open and there were well over 100 people already waiting upon our arrival. Nerves took over, because for the first time I wasn’t in control or leading, but I was just a simple person working in a clinic helping one patient at a time. We hustled as fast as we could, because the waiting room continued to crowd, and every day once the daylight escaped us, the interior lights would not be enough to conduct our work. The people we served had working wages equal to $5-$15/day and glasses can cost between $150-$300. Think about that…  

We did this for a week. At the end of each day, I was tired but fulfilled. There was always a reward for grinding away person after person—they smiled with me, hugged me, and cried; some parents saw their children for the first time in their full beauty. Some were happy just to read again, and some were amazed at how beautiful the world was now that they could see clearly. In the end, we saw 1,645 patients and I wish we could have doubled that, because nothing hurt more knowing that some people had to be turned away. Some waited 8 hours to see us and it brought me to tears multiple times that I was fitting somebody for glasses that needed them so badly they waited in the hot sun for hours. These people wouldn’t understand the trivial issues we complain about – and nor should they. They want to work, live their life, spend time with friends and family, and be happy. It truly puts into perspective our daily struggles and how mundane and inconsequential they are compared to those in need.  

I said earlier this article wasn’t going to be a charge to lead 500 trips to lands across the world or some grandiose mission. My hope is by reading this you hear about a brother who is tired, overworked, juggling a marriage and kid, and had the calling to take one small step. It doesn’t need to be grandiose. You don’t need to lead anything…just take one small step. Help somebody in one small way. Whether the calling comes spiritually or because the values of who you are, be the Good Samaritan and help somebody along the path of life. I heeded the call from God, and I am thankful for the opportunity, strength, and ability He gave me. Our collegiate and fraternal experiences may no doubt have been different – but what binds us is a commitment to something higher than ourselves, a calling to our fellow man, a calling that imbues upon us a sense of duty near and far.  

God willing, I will be back on another medical trip soon. If you ever have considered going on a trip – DO IT!  It is incredible and every bit of concern, stress, and inconvenience I experienced doesn’t hold a candle to the fulfilling experience you will receive. This trip helped me understand that it is the small steps, acts of love, and serving with a kind heart that the world needs. I’m thankful for the values I learned as a member of Phi Tau and what it engrained in the very fiber of my existence—leading me to this experience. I’m damn proud to represent the fraternity wherever I go, no matter how far that is.  

P.S. Your first small step can be donating your old glasses to an organization that will help you find a new home for them. I am biased toward MMO, but there are dozens. People need those glasses, and an extra couple of minutes to find a donation box will change somebody’s life. Remember, love is often inconvenient.   

Phi Kappa Tau Reaches Largest Average Chapter Size in Years

51. What does that number mean to you? This year, for Phi Kappa Tau, it means growth. Chapters across the board did remarkably well in their recruitment efforts this Fall which buoyed the average chapter size of our organization to 51 members per chapter.  

Chapters like Gamma Beta at Cincinnati played a major role in our overall growth success!

This, of course, is just one metric we look at to determine the health of our organization and doesn’t paint the full picture. To give some context, our previous average chapter size was typically in the mid-40s for the past several years. With a current undergraduate base of 4,145 members, we are seeing significant improvement and sustainability in overall membership growth.  

Zooming in, we saw several individual chapters achieve great success with their recruitment numbers. Among them, Alpha Lambda at Auburn took in a strong 50-man associate class and initiated 100% of their new members. Gamma Beta at Cincinatti had one of their largest associate member classes in years, taking in 20 members. Gamma Psi at Texas State took in 36 men after rejoining their campus’ Interfraternity Council. Lambda chapter at Purdue had perhaps the most dramatic turnaround in membership size, growing from just under 10 members to 78 members this fall.  

Expansion chapters like Gamma Omicron at Cal State Fullerton are integral to overall organizational growth.

Our growth efforts were also supported by the creation of new chapters led by the executive offices Growth Team. New chapters were re-established at Cal State Fullerton (Gamma Omicron), Texas A&M (Epsilon Alpha), and our newest restart at SUNY Oswego (Epsilon Eta). Gamma Omicron and Epsilon Alpha began with 37 associates thanks to the onsite presence of the growth teams.  

Growth Consultants will be sent to SUNY Oswego and UC Davis in the Spring, in addition to continually supporting chapters with their growth efforts. The revolutionary Recruitment Services Initiative (RSI) has proven to be a massive success for our chapters, and we can’t wait to see how we will continue to grow year after year. Looking to the future, our growth team continues to look to improve our chapters’ growth effort through the implementation of the Phi Kappa Tau Growth system and educating men onsite in Chicago this year at this year’s Zenith Officer Institute.  

If you or a leader of your chapter is looking to see how they can continue to enhance their recruitment systems, please reach out to the Associate Director of Organizational Growth via email at rcallahan@phikappatau.org. 

(The Growth Team Consists of: Hunter Pemberton (Director of Organizational Growth), Ryan Callahan (Associate Director of Organizational Growth), Zak Belbina (Senior Growsh Consultant), Noah Shipley (Senior Growth Consultant)) 

The Life and Legacy of William D. Jenkins - "Mr. Bill" Enters Chapter Eternal

A memorial service will take place for Bill on October 26th, 2024 at 1:00pm at the Oxford Presbyterian Church (101 N Main St, Oxford, OH 45056)

William D. Jenkins (1937-2024)

William D. Jenkins (Bowling Green 1957) entered chapter eternal on September 23, 2024, following a long illness. “Mr. Bill” as he was affectionately known, was one of the most consequential leaders in Phi Kappa Tau and in the greater Greek community for more than half a century. Bill was a giant in the Greek world. No Phi Tau except Jack Anson, Colgate ’47 comes close to matching Bill’s influence on that community and its leaders.

Born and raised in Ravenna, Ohio November 9, 1937, near Cleveland, He enrolled in Bowling Green State University, majored in business, later changing his major to art and joined the marching band. He was invited to join Beta Tau Chapter and was initiated on January 18, 1957. He attended his first National Convention in Pasadena, California in 1958 where he met Founders Shideler and Borradaile, Roland Maxwell and other Phi Tau luminaries. At the time of his death, he held the record for having attended more conventions than any Phi Tau alive. This connection to the national fraternity inspired him to accept an offer to join the fraternity’s professional staff as a field secretary upon his graduation. National Secretary Richard J. Young retired shortly after Jenkins’ arrival on the staff and when the assistant secretary, Jack Anson was not immediately appointed to replace Dick Young, Bill was appointed acting national secretary.

Jenkins with Founder Borradaile

By the time Anson returned to the staff as National Secretary, Bill had been drafted and was away in the service, returning in 1964 and quickly becoming Anson’s assistant and right-hand man. He remained in that position until 1970 when Anson left to become the Executive Director of the National Interfraternity Conference, now North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), as it was then known and he assumed the recently re-named role as Executive Director of Phi Kappa Tau. His time in that position was challenging. In the tumultuous years of the 1970s, the popularity of fraternities waned. Chapters closed. Others defaulted on loans and revenues to support fraternity operations dwindled. After the better part of two decades on the Phi Tau staff, Bill left in 1978 to work for Compolith Graphics in Indianapolis which served the Greek community. As a well-known leader in the Greek world, Bill soon joined the fund-raising firm of Development Dynamics Group in St. Louis. At DDG, he provided sage fundraising counsel to a long list of fraternity and sorority clients and his unique style of writing fund raising letters raised millions of dollars for his clients, mentoring countless development professionals along the way.

Jenkins at his desk at the Executive Offices

Bill left DDG for the opportunity to serve his alma mater as the assistant vice president and director of development at Bowling Green State University. He enjoyed the chance to serve Bowling Green but Phi Tau came calling and he returned to Oxford in 1991 to become executive director of the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation, the role that would be the capstone to his career. Bill greatly expanded the role of the Foundation, assuming responsibility for the Laurel and expanding the professional staff. He engaged heavily with the Fraternity’s new national philanthropy, now known as SeriousFun Children’s Network. He volunteered as a cabin counselor at SeriousFun camps and found it to be a life-changing experience, often tearing up as he described the interactions with the children he met at camp. Prior to his retirement in 2006, Bill assumed the role of Centennial Coordinator, taking on responsibility for the Centennial Garden fund raising and construction.

Always a leader in the interfraternity movement, Bill was appointed to fill the unexpired term on board of the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) held by Walter G. “Sonny” Strange, Auburn ’70 who died in 1992. Bill was a distinguished member of the NIC board for a decade and was elected president, becoming the only Phi Tau since Roland Maxwell to hold that distinguished office. In 2005, he joined Roland Maxwell, Ewing Boles and Jack Anson to become the fourth Phi Tau to be awarded the NIC’s Gold Medal, its highest award. The NIC’s Foundation Section, now known as the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence (FFE) annually awards the William D. Jenkins Outstanding Foundation Professional Award in Bill’s honor.

Jenkins (Center, Beige Coat) with several former Phi Kappa Tau Executive Offices Staff Members.

In Phi Kappa Tau, Bill received every significant alumnus award given, including the Borradaile Alumnus Award and the Palm Award. He was among the inaugural class inducted into the Fraternity’s Hall of Fame at the Fraternity’s Centennial celebration in 2006 which he helped to orchestrate in grand style, memorably narrating a series of historical videos at the final banquet. The Fraternity’s award for Interfraternal Excellence is named for him. He is a recipient of the Jack L. Anson Award from the Association of Fraternity Advisors and the Distinguished Service Award from the Fraternity Executives Association. Numerous other Greek organizations have recognized Bill for his service to the interfraternity movement.

And while fraternity took up much of Bill’s life, he was far from one-dimensional. He was a passionate, life-long baseball fan. He particularly loved the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed his time in St. Louis where he was able to attend games. He collected baseballs, visited major league ballparks and vacationed around spring training when he could. His son Doug said that during Bill’s final days, he knew he was feeling a little better when he began to complain about the Cincinnati Reds payroll.

Jenkins volunteering at Camp Boggy Creek, a SeriousFun Children’s Network Camp

He was a devoted family man as well. He was married twice, his first marriage ending in divorce but producing his loving sons Chuck and Doug who was his primary caregiver in his last years. He met his second wife Carmalieta, a Delta Gamma executive, at ceremonies recognizing the bicentennial of the American College Fraternity at Williamsburg in December 1976. Bill and Carmalieta were married in December 1982 and were inseparable for the remainder of Carmalieta’s life. Bill was her devoted caregiver as her health declined and was her constant companion, even when she was forced to move into a care facility.

Bill devoted much his community leadership to the Oxford Kiwanis Club, which he first joined in 1964 and served as its president in 1971. He rejoined the club on his return to Oxford in 1991 and faithfully attended meetings and activities as long as his health permitted. He also became known in his retirement years as Santa, even growing his own white beard to add to the authenticity. He appeared throughout the Oxford and Hamilton communities, delighting children and adults. He became a fixture at the annual Phi Tau Christmas office party.

Bill always had an creative and artistic flair which was reflected in his use of language, attention to detail, his distinctive handwriting and lower-case signature and his eye for graphic design. In retirement, he turned his attention to drawing and painting, often making gifts of his artwork and offering them charity auctions and sales.

To his legions of friends, Bill will be remembered for his meticulous and natty appearance, his warmth, his humanity, his good stories, thoughtful notes and his bad jokes.

And perhaps the most lasting legacy to Bill in Phi Kappa Tau will be our cherished Candlelight Ceremony. Penned by Bill for the closing banquet of the 1975 National Convention, Honored Founder Taylor Borradaile’s last Convention, the ceremony has been conducted hundreds of times as a moving capstone to national and chapter events. Bill loved to tailor the ceremony to each event where he conducted it but finally agreed on a standard version which has been included as one of the Fraternity’s public Rituals. A fitting end to each Candlelight Ceremony and to Bill’s memory are the words from the Brotherhood Song “We’ll meet again in heaven, sure, in the name of Phi Kappa Tau.”

Phi Kappa Tau Brotherhood Assessment FAQ

If you are reading this you are likely an undergraduate member or a Phi Kappa Tau volunteer. We hope this list of frequently asked questions will help you to better understand the Phi Kappa Tau Brotherhood Assessment.

What is the purpose of the Survey? 

• In order to get a more accurate picture of the strengths and areas of improvement for Ph Kappa Tau, we will be partnering with Dyad Strategies to administer a simple survey to our entire undergraduate membership. The purpose of which is to provide better resources for groups long term, backed by the data from our membership itself.  

Who gets to take the survey?  

• All undergraduates, including new members. The assessment will be sent to each member INDIVIDUALLY via email, to the email address listed in Phi Kappa Tau Portal. The survey link is unique for each person and will not work if it’s forwarded to other people.   

How long will it take?  

• The entire survey will take 25 – 30 minutes to complete.  

What’s the deadline? 

• Ideally the survey is completed at the first chapter meeting you hold after receiving the survey via email. Chapters will have until November 5th, 2024 to complete the survey in a timely manner.

Does everyone have to take it?  

• We hope everyone will. Chapter presidents will receive weekly reports showing exactly who – and who hasn’t – completed the survey. To get statistically significant results, each chapter needs to have 60% of their members complete the survey. 

Are the results confidential? 

• Results are confidential and intended for internal use, individual results will not be made public nor will your chapter’s leadership have access to your response.  

Members who don’t receive the survey email 

• If you do not receive the survey via email it is likely due to a minor database error, please have your chapter president reach out to their Success Manager to resolve the issue. 

Help! We have problems!  

• Please refer to your Chapter Consultant for diagnosing email issues, participation issues, general concerns, etc. 

What will the weekly participation reports look like?  

• The chapter president will get a weekly participation report. It will be a simple excel sheet that lists overall participation statistics for your chapter, plus a detailed report of each member and his survey status. For instance, you’ll be able to see that 72% of the chapter started the survey and 67% completed the survey.  

• Then, for an individual member, you can see if he received the email, opened the email, started the survey, or completed the survey. You won’t be able to see any survey answers, just the completion status.  

• This is how you’ll be able to offer incentives to individuals who complete the survey quickly and follow up with members who haven’t started it yet 

What if people don’t answer seriously? Will that affect our chapter results?  

• Possibly. This survey is for the benefit of chapter leaders, to provide direct feedback from your members. If students give dishonest or glib answers, that will affect your results. The survey tabulation software has some built-in controls for “fake data,” so one or two goofballs won’t skew your results. The best way to prevent this is to build excitement for the survey, offer incentives, and make it a priority for the fall term. 

What if we don’t agree with what the report says?  

• The Brotherhood Assessment will convey feedback directly from your members. It’s possible that what your members say is different from your own thoughts and assumptions. That’s OK. The chapter report is intended as a starting point for information and conversation about the culture of your chapter.  

Will the results be used for any disciplinary action against a chapter?  

• No. The questions are about the attitudes and experiences of your members. There aren’t any questions about specific incidents or events. 

The Winners Are...

 See below for a list of winners for this year’s Awards of Distinction. For a PDF version of this list please click here.

PHI KAPPA TAU AWARDS OF DISTINCTION 

(ANNOUNCED JULY 2024 FOR THE 2023 CALENDAR YEAR) 

⭐⭐⭐ 

CHAPTER  AWARDS 

Roland Maxwell Outstanding Chapter | Top Chapter 

Beta Beta, Louisville  

Founders Four Chapters | Top Four Chapters 

Phi, Bethany 

Chi, North Carolina State 

Alpha Kappa, Washington State 

Beta Beta, Louisville  

Harold E. Angelo Award | Most Improved Chapter 

Alpha Kappa, Washington State 

Jack Jareo Award | Outstanding Newsletter 

Upsilon, Nebraska Wesleyan 

Richard Massock Award | Best Chapter Alumni Event  

Phi, Bethany 

Gamma Alpha, Michigan Tech  

Best New Associate Class | Best New Associate Class 

Epsilon Nu, Clemson   

Ross E. Roeder Award | Best BOG 

Kappa, Kentucky 

Academic Excellence | Chapter GPA above 3.0 or above AMA 

Alpha, Miami 

Delta, Centre 

Epsilon, Mount Union 

Upsilon, Nebraska Wesleyan 

Phi, Bethany 

Alpha Gamma, Delaware 

Alpha Kappa, Washington State 

Alpha Rho, Georgia Tech 

Alpha Tau, Cornell 

Alpha Chi, Mississippi State 

Alpha Omega, Baldwin Wallace 

Beta Beta, Louisville 

Beta Theta, Kansas 

Beta Omicron, Maryland 

Gamma Alpha, Michigan Tech 

Gamma Mu, Bradley 

Delta Kappa, Tennesse 

Zeta Alpha, Belmont 

Zeta Zeta, Illinois-Springfield 

Zeta Xi, South Carolina 

Zeta Omicron, Arizona State 

Zeta Pi, Boston  

George V. Voinovich Excellence in Community Service Award | Most Community Service Hours  

Chi, North Carolina State 

Community Service Scroll | Chapters that average 20 service hours per member 

Chi, North Carolina State 

Epsilon, Mount Union 

Delta Lambda, Muskingum 

Zeta Epsilon, Lynchburg  

Frederick R. Fletemeyer Prize | Outstanding Associate Chapter Award 

Epsilon Nu, Clemson  

Monoroe Moosnick Scholarship Trophy | Top Chapter GPA 

Alpha Tau, Cornell 

Order of the Star | Borradaile Challenge Rating 

Alpha, Miami 

Upsilon, Nebraska Wesleyan 

Alpha Rho, Georgia Tech 

Beta Beta, Lousiville 

Delta Lambda, Mukingum 

Delta Nu, Wright State 

Delta Rho, Eastern Kentucky 

Zeta Alpha, Belmont 

Zeta Omicron, Arizona State  

Recruitment Pacesetter Award 

Beta, Ohio 

Alpha Gamma, Michigan Tech 

Alpha Tau, Cornell 

Beta Beta, Louisville 

Beta Chi, Southern Illinois 

Beta Omega, Chico 

Beta Xi, Georgia 

Delta Kappa, Tennesse 

Delta Lambda, Muskingum 

Epsilon Nu, Clemson 

Epsilon Sigma, Chapman 

Gamma Beta, Cincinatti 

Omicron, Penn State 

Zeta Alpha, Belmont 

Zeta Xi, South Carolina  

Paul Newman Award | Highest Dollar amount donated to SeriousFun 

Beta Beta, Louisville  

Norm W. Brown Philanthropy Scroll | Donated more than $2000 charity  

Delta, Centre 

Upsilon, Nebraska Wesleyan 

Phi, Bethany 

Chi, NC State 

Alpha Gamma, Delaware 

Alpha Rho, Georgia Tech 

Alpha Chi, Mississippi State 

Alpha Omega, Baldwin Wallace 

Beta Beta, Louisville 

Beta Gamma, Ole Miss 

Beta Chi, Southern Illinois 

Gamma Xi, East Central 

Sonny Strange Recruitment Award | Top Recruitment/Retention Award 

Delta Kappa, Tennessee 

Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award (Chapter) | Chapter DEIA Award 

Lambda, Purdue University  

⭐⭐⭐ 

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS 

Taylor A. Borradaile Undergraduate Memorial Award | Top Undergraduate 

Tanner Schultz, Louisville  

William Henry Shideler Award | Outstanding Senior 

Max Draus, Nebraska Wesleyan  

Dwight I. Douglass President’s Award | Top Chapter President 

Keegan Tingle, Louisville (Beta Beta)  

Best New Associate

Tavyn Likosky, Baldwin Wallace (Alpha Omega)  

Jack Anson Award | Outstanding Interfraternal service to their community 

Zachary Schubert, Kansas (Beta Theta) 

Clinton D. Boyd VPAR Award | Best VPAR 

Nolan Eatherton, Nebraska Wesleyan (Upsilon)  

Dr. Edgar Ewing Brandon Award | Outstanding Advisor 

Jeff Moser, Tennesse (Delta Kappa)  

Greg Hollen Associate Chapter President Award | Best Associate Chapter President 

Vincent De Luca, East Carolina (Gamma Eta) 

Outstanding Associate Chapter Advisor Award | Outstanding Associate Chapter Advisor 

Tom Gooden, Beta Theta (Kansas) 

Outstanding Greek Advisor Award | Outstanding Greek Advisor 

Carter Lukes, West Virginia University 

Phi Award

Scott Conroe, Alpha Tau (Cornell)

Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award (Individual) | Individual DEIA Award 

Matt Olson, North Texas (Zeta Theta) 

Orlando Selected for Convention 2025

The location for the 66th National Convention of Phi Kappa Tau has been etched in stone, and it reads... 

Orlando, Florida!  

Wednesday July 23rd—Sunday, July 27th, Phi Taus of all ages will descend upon Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando, Lake Buena Vista South and commence the most historic celebration of brotherhood this fraternity has ever known. This will culminate in our Brotherhood Banquet taking place on Saturday, July 26th along with a full day of brotherhood activities.

Convention registration, participation packages, and hotel reservations will be available starting September 1st. Attendees that book with the Convention hotel will have their registration discounted. Your stay at the Convention hotel will include free made-to-order breakfast (2 per room) and a complimentary evening reception each day.

In one year, we will Turn the Tide of brotherhood—unifying our organization with the common goal of advancing the Phi Kappa Tau mission to young men all over the country! 

More information on the 2025 Convention is still to come, including details on a theme park trip and several affinity reunions. If you want to be the first to know more information and even receive an early bird discount, click here.

The Founding Fathers of Today

As we look towards our 118th Birthday, we take some time to look at the Founding Fathers of today. Men on campuses across the country who are taking the step to create their own chapters of Phi Kappa Tau. This piece is written by one such brother - Matty Staib, founding member of the Grand Valley State University Associate Chapter.

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In order to stay relevant across the nation, Phi Kappa Tau needs to not only nurture the growth of existing chapters, but expand to new campuses to continue to foster those ideals to keep the tradition and importance of Phi Kappa Tau alive. With over 80 active chapters nationwide, the Phi Kappa Tau community has recently witnessed 9 new associate chapters/interest groups emerge. 

Why start a new chapter?

Grand Valley State Associate Chapter.

In the world of Phi Kappa Tau, motivation to start a new chapter tends to stem from a deep-rooted connection to the fraternity. Andrew Tillman, a fourth-generation Phi Tau, felt drawn to continue his family legacy at the University of Dayton. "I am a fourth-generation Phi Tau. After going through rush as a freshman, I didn't find my home in any other fraternities, so Phi Tau was naturally the next move, and it was the best decision I could have made." This same motivation of Tilman was then extended into something greater, by redefining fraternity culture on campus. 

Similarly, Jonah Edgerton of Grand Valley State University drew inspiration from seeing the tight bonds he witnessed between his father and fraternity brothers, driving him to create a similar experience at his own university. "I saw how people viewed [Fraternity & Sorority Life] in a negative light, and I intended to change that. My dad was in the Beta Mu chapter of Phi Tau at Kent State, and I wanted to bring that bond here to GVSU."

It’s clear that starting a new chapter versus joining an existing one offers an experience to connect to something greater than yourself, but also craft change on your campus. However, it can be difficult to do without the proper support.

Who can help?

Navigating and establishing a new chapter is not a simple process, but the support provided by the Phi Kappa Tau Executive Office proves invaluable. From day one, founding members receive guidance and assistance, ensuring a smooth transition from inception to charter. The Phi Kappa Tau Growth Team plays a crucial role throughout this process. They are constantly fostering growth and success, actively working with the undergraduates, and leaving these men with every resource they need in order to build a successful chapter.

Chartering Celebration for Delta Kappa at the University of Tennessee Knoxville .

 "It’s super nostalgic for me. I was in the Delta Kappa [a 2019 restart] chapter and we were all extremely driven on growing and solving problems we had never seen before," said Chris Hilton, current Growth Consultant, when asked about expansion, he continued, "With the new expansion, It's something I get to do everyday, and it makes the job fun for me. I also essentially gain 15+ little brothers each chapter I aid in. Expansion is in a great place right now and our founding fathers are creating top chapter experiences extremely quickly after we leave." 

Membership Growth Manager Ryan Callahan shared similar thoughts of excitement, "There is so much room for creativity in this role, I am able to pick topics and take them almost anywhere I want. The best route I get to go on is working with the undergraduates. Getting to know and work with them as individuals and chapters as a whole aids in us all being on the same page"

Even with national support, new chapters face all of the highs and lows you would expect to come with taking on a great challenge. 

What’s the goal?

University of Dayton Associate Chapter Members.

Once an associate chapter is installed, they begin a process called “chartering” in which the new chapter is given a set of expectations that align with the performance metrics that active chapters are evaluated on annually.

Some of these standards include maintaining a healthy chapter size relative to campus average, community service hours, philanthropic donations, and participating in national events to name a few. Beyond the metrics, the founding brothers’ greatest challenge may be gaining and maintaining momentum over what can be a long journey. From installation to being approved to charter can take any way from several months to in some cases years.

While chartering may be the final goal of an associate chapter, it is not a finish line. Once the group is chartered they then begin the exciting challenge of continuing to build their campus identity and strive to become a force for change on campus for years to come.

In many ways this hearkens back to the original founding of Phi Kappa Tau. Borradaile, Shideler, Boyd, and Douglass didn’t have to fill out a series of chartering requirements, but they did have to inspire a group of peers to strive for greatness and become men of distinction. It is comforting to know that 118 years later this is still very much the case for the Founding Fathers of Today.

CEO Matt Arnold to Be Initiated into Phi Kappa Tau

3/8/2024 

CEO Arnold at the 65th National Convention.

[OXFORD, OH] We are pleased to announce the upcoming initiation of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity CEO, Matt Arnold. Arnold will be recognized as a member of the Beta Chi chapter of Phi Kappa Tau at Southern Illinois University – his alma mater.  

This initiation comes with unanimous support from the National Council, the Beta Chi Graduate Council, and the Beta Chi Resident Council. Originally initiated as a member of Alpha Tau Omega, Arnold will maintain dual membership with both organizations, a status that the current Alpha Tau Omega CEO Wynn Smiley also shares.  

“We’re very happy for Matt and are not surprised at the success he’s enjoying...” ATO CEO Smiley said while granting approval for Arnold to initiate into Phi Kappa Tau, “... [Alpha Tau Omega] applaud[s] the Board’s decision to give Matt the honor of initiating into Phi Kappa Tau.” 

Arnold will be initiated on Saturday April 13th in Indianapolis, which falls just over one year since his assumption of role of Fraternity CEO.  

See below for the full proclamation on behalf of the Phi Kappa Tau National Council or click here for a PDF version of the Proclamation.

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WHEREAS, it is well-established that the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity seeks to admit men into membership who have demonstrated good moral character, wholesome living, vigorous thinking, a respect for the ideals and purposes of the Fraternity, and a desire to bring honor and credit to the Fraternity;

WHEREAS, Matthew Arnold began his association with the Fraternity in the Spring of 2023, and since that time the Fraternity’s National Council and numerous other Fraternity brothers have had an extensive opportunity to work closely with Matthew Arnold on a daily or weekly basis, travel with him, have extensive discussions with him about work issues, his family, and his views about life, observe him in many different professional, social and personal settings, and through this entire experience have found Matthew Arnold to have all the attributes of a man which make him well qualified to be a member of Phi Kappa Tau;

WHEREAS, Matthew Arnold was initiated as an undergraduate in the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity at Southern Illinois University. Accordingly, it was necessary for the National Council to secure the approval and consent of Alpha Tau Omega for him to be eligible for dual membership in both fraternities.

WHEREAS, upon the request of the Resident and Graduate Council members of the Beta Chi Chapter of Phi Kappa Tau, having secured the enthusiastic endorsement of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity; and having discussed extensively and carefully all issues related to admitting Matthew Arnold into membership of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity, the National Council on Oct 5th voted unanimously to extend  Matthew Arnold an invitation to be initiated as a Brother into the Beta Chi Chapter of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity

NOW THEREFORE, be it known to all that the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity is proud and pleased to declare that Matthew Arnold heartily accepted the invitation to be initiated into our esteemed brotherhood, with such initiation ceremony to occur on the 13th day of April in the year 2024.

Given under our hands and the seal of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity, this 28th day of February, 2024.

Michael McCrum

National President

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Interested in attending the initiation? Email inquiries to communications@phikappatau.org.

Tau Report - January 2024

For a full PDF of this letter, click here.

January 30, 2024

My esteemed brothers,

      I come to you this first month of 2024 with a heart full of anticipation and enthusiasm for what will prevail these next 12 months. As your national president, I am pleased to give you this report of the progress we have made since our July 2023 National Convention. Some of you have expressed to me that an update should have already been provided. I apologize if the timing of this report is later than you wanted, but I and others wanted for several pending items to come to fruition before sending this out. Please bear with me, but I’m hopeful you will see in this letter that I and others have been working hard in all areas of our Fraternity.

      I realize this letter is lengthy, but I’ve got a lot to tell you about. If after reading this you still have questions, please send me an email. Facebook complaints and criticisms, in my opinion, are not productive in any sense of the word and only breed dissension among our brotherhood. Let’s get away from that. Instead, let’s approach each other in a positive way, even as to issues that we may have concern or frustration about, working together and lifting each other up as brothers.

      Please reach out to me via email if you have questions or concerns. My continuing intent is to be completely candid with what is going on.

BROTHERHOOD

• I begin with the most important of all considerations, the state of our brotherhood. These past six months I have participated in many opportunities to witness our brotherhood in action: 

• I visited fifteen chapters in Ohio, Mississippi, Georgia, South Carolina, Kentucky, Colorado, and Texas. In those visits, I was able to listen to the perspectives of brothers at each chapter, both undergraduate and alumni.

• I participated in many online, telephonic, and in-person meetings and conversations with many different elements of our Fraternity, including:

  • our National Council,

  • our CEO and staff members of our Executive Office,

  • our Fraternity’s Foundation Chairman, Executive Director, and Board of Trustees,

  • our Fraternity’s Undergraduate Advisory Board,

  • chairmen of several committees,

  • former National Presidents,

  • former CEOs, and

  • many other alumni and undergraduate brothers.

• I participated in several fraternal events, including:

  • the chartering ceremony of a new chapter,

  • a chapter’s centennial celebration,

  • several Board of Governor meetings,

  • several Housing Corporation meetings,

  • a chapter eternal service,

  • an initiation, and

  • a Zenith Officer Institute.

• I have listened to brothers’ compliments and encouragement, as well as brothers’ complaints, criticisms, and concerns. As for expressed concerns, some examples: frustration that brothers have not heard enough about what is going on; that minutes of Council meetings have not yet been disseminated; that information regarding the Foundation has not been analyzed or disclosed as quickly as some would like. I’m pleased to receive the encouraging words, and I listen carefully to the complaints and expressions of discontent. I hope to address everything in this letter and in future reports.

      Through all of this, I can easily say that my love and enthusiasm for our brotherhood has increased exponentially these last six months. Through the course of my visits, meetings, and conversations, I continue to sense brothers’ deep, abiding love for Phi Kappa Tau. While I also sense a deep desire for improvements in the operation of our Fraternity, I sense a strong affection for our brotherhood. We are strong, Phi Tau!!! Our brotherhood is strong!!!

      Yet, I know we can come closer to each other - - closer to each other in the way we communicate with and about each other; the way we think about each other; the way we openly support and encourage each other even in the face of brothers making mistakes in judgment; the way we walk forward through life together.

      It is my hope and mission to do what I can to help us grow closer as brothers in those and other ways.

NEW AND REVISED POLICIES

      At the National Convention, a concern was raised about transparency and other issues. I and members of the National Council have taken all of that into account and have sought to address each concern. We have seen the need for the creation of some new policies and the refinement of policies already in existence. I am pleased to announce the following:

            Transparency and Confidentiality Policy:

§  New Policy: At our 2023 Convention, it became clear that transparency was a significant concern among many brothers. It was for this reason that one of my expressed commitments following my election was “to demand transparency in my work and that of our national officers and staff.”

To that end, one of my first acts as National President was to draft and present to the National Council a proposed policy of transparency and confidentiality.

After careful deliberation and necessary revisions, the National Council unanimously approved the “Phi Kappa Tau Policy of Confidentiality and Transparency,” which you can find through the new online portal described below. Brothers, this is an unprecedented written affirmation of our Fraternity’s commitment to transparency, confidentiality, and accountability among its brothers. It demands that different types of information be made available to Fraternity members on a timely basis.

§  New Online Portal: To implement this new written policy into action, we’ve done the following: 

To answer the call for disclosure of minutes, financial statements, and other information and to disseminate information in compliance with this new transparency policy, the National Council directed the Executive Office to create an online portal where members will use their FSID log in to access the information. This will include access to the following documents:

• Minutes of National Council meetings,

• Financial documents (financial statements; tax returns; Forms 990; audits; etc.),

• Chapter status information,

• Committee information,

• Award information,

• Executive Office personnel info,

• Fraternity governance documents (Constitution, Statutes, Policies),

• Other relevant fraternity documents.

Brothers, I’m excited to announce the launch of this online resource this week. By accessing the portal through the “LOGIN” link on www.phikappatau.org, you will find posted many documents for your review under “Organization Information”. Let me know if you have difficulty accessing this portal. For those brothers who do not use the internet, please let me or CEO Arnold what document you are wanting to see. Our intent is for brothers to have access to the type of information they expressed wanting at the Convention. 

Social Media Policy:

§  While social media can and has been a benefit in the exchange of important information, it will not surprise anyone that I and many others feel it often is a vehicle for misinformation and unwarranted dissension. Frankly, in my opinion, the world agrees that this is a downside of social media.

§  For this reason, the National Council approved the “Policy on Social Media,” which will be posted in our new online portal.

Privacy Policy

§  As we know, our Fraternity currently has a privacy policy which prevents the Executive Office from disseminating personal information of members, including names and contact information of undergraduate brothers who attend conferences and conventions. This policy was already in force prior to my election as President and has been posted on our fraternity website for years.  The policy was initiated to protect your privacy and conform with the numerous laws governing the protection and use of personal identifying information.

§  Some have insisted that it was said at the Convention that names and contact information of all brothers attending the Convention would be released. To the extent this was communicated, it was a mistake, as it did not comport with our existing policy - - a policy that has existed prior to the Convention. Until there is a substantial shift in policy to allow the free dissemination of member contact info, I cannot authorize its release. If you disagree, please contact me.

§  An issue came before the Council regarding the privacy policy: As you know, the Undergraduate Advisory Board is charged with initiating and maintaining communication with chapter officers. That mission was stymied by our Fraternity’s privacy policy, as it prevented the UAB to easily obtain necessary chapter contact information. The National Council addressed the issue and approved an exception to the policy for UAB to carry out its mission. To the extent it becomes necessary, the Council may have to consider approving a limited exception for a committee to do its work. Until that time, however, the policy is there to protect you – the members of our fraternity.

§  All of that notwithstanding, this entire issue of privacy has been referred to the Governance Committee to review and recommend improvements, if any, to this policy.

Posthumous Membership Policy

§  Several situations arose in the past six months which indicated the need for a clarification of our policy on posthumous honorary membership. While our current governance documents allow for honorary membership of this type, there was a need for clarity on how and when this could happen. The Council is in the process of crafting and finalizing this policy.

COMMITTEES, TASK FORCE, BOARD, DEANS & DOMAIN DIRECTORS:

      Our Fraternity is blessed to have brothers who have stepped up to answer the call to volunteer in the spirit of brotherhood. Our online portal includes a listing of all current committees (and their Chairs), task forces, National Council, Deans, and Domain Directors (including the brothers who are serving on each). If you are interested in serving on any of these, please reach out to me, the committee chairman, and/or any National Councilor.  

            Committees, Task Force, & Board:

      I am excited to formally announce seven new projects that we have created.  I presented to the National Council a request for the approval of committees and a task force that our Fraternity has not had in the recent past, if at all. You will note that several of the new projects described below are an unprecedented move forward by our Fraternity, and some are newer versions of what we have had.

      These seven new projects are listed in alphabetical order:

1.      Alumni Retention Committee: While we are all familiar with our historical Alumni Engagement Committees, the National Council determined that our Fraternity needed a distinct committee that would focus primarily on alumni retention, in addition to the historical committee which focuses on alumni engagement.

      The reason this unprecedented committee was created is to focus solely on retaining the interest and involvement of graduating seniors in their chapters and the national fraternity. While this relates to alumni engagement, the focus with alumni retention is more narrow and targets graduating seniors and members in the first couple years after college. All too often, we have been losing this level of involvement due to seniors focusing on career and personal development in the years immediately after graduation and while they are in the decade of their 20s.

Phi Tau has always encouraged a robust career and personal development outside of our Fraternity. It is our hope that this committee will encourage increased Phi Tau engagement which we believe will not detract from the career and personal priorities but enhance career and personal growth for members post-graduation.

      This Alumni Retention Committee was created to analyze these issues and recommend steps to encourage continued involvement in the years immediately post-graduation.  Brother Rick Rice agreed to serve as the Committee’s Chairman. National Councilor Ray Carlos is serving as Advisor.

2.      Chaplaincy Corps: As we know, our governance calls for the appointment of a Fraternity Chaplain. It occurred to me prior to my election that our Fraternity would be well-served by multiple chaplains given the diversity of our membership, with the goal of enlisting several brothers to serve jointly as Chaplains rather than having one single Chaplain. These brothers would serve our diverse membership through their faith and experience in diverse traditions, beliefs, and practices. I spoke about this with Brothers Lapinski and Rachford, two brothers who have served as Chaplains and have been stalwarts in this area of our Fraternity. They agreed with this new approach.

The National Council approved the creation of a chaplaincy corps that would have multiple facets to its charge: provide our members with access to a chaplain who would better suit the member’s preference and diversity, and provide our Fraternity with a diverse, ecumenical body of guidance and leadership in all areas of chaplaincy. Brother Rachford has agreed to lead this effort and is currently assimilating a group of brothers to serve as Fraternity Chaplains. I am serving as the National Council’s Advisor to this “committee.” 

3.      Constitutional/Statutory Review Committee:  It was apparent to me and the rest of the National Council that an analysis and edit of our Constitution and Statutes was necessary. Former CEO Steve Hartman agreed to serve as Chairman, and two former National Presidents and three other outstanding brothers agreed to serve as members. The committee has been regularly meeting these past months, and I anticipate that suggested revisions to our governance documents is forthcoming later this year. National Councilor Jon Hays is serving as Advisor.

4.      Financial Advisory Committee: Our 2023 Convention and events in the recent past reinforced the need for a Financial Advisory Committee to provide a vehicle for advice to me, our CEO, and/or our National Council as to all significant financial issues that our Fraternity deals with. Brother Kevin Prather agreed to serve as Chairman. National Councilors French and Bailey are serving as the committee’s Advisors.

5.      Housing Committee: The National Council approved the creation of a Housing Committee which has a dual charge: assist chapters with housing-related issues and analyze our Fraternity’s current approach to housing issues and recommend suggested changes. A search is currently underway to find a brother willing and qualified to take on this critical role. National Councilor Scott Brown is serving as Advisor.

6.      Mental Health & Emotional Wellness Committee:  As was my announced intent at the 2023 Convention, this committee has been formed to address significant issues in the health of our brotherhood. Brother Tim Popma has stepped up to lead this worthy effort. National Councilor Andy Fruth is serving as Advisor.

7.      Technology Review Task Force:  After the election at the 2023 Convention, Brother Jeff Baird approached me and suggested that a review of our Fraternity’s current technological equipment, software, and usage could be useful to take our Fraternity to a more proficient technological and operational stage. I agreed, and the National Council approved my appointment of Brother Baird. Since then, he has conducted an initial review and made a presentation to our National Council and CEO. We are excited that his effort will lead our Fraternity to advanced tech capacity in the coming year. National Councilor Bailey is serving as Advisor.

In addition to the seven relatively new committees and task force listed above, here is an alphabetical listing of committees and a Board which we are all familiar with:

8.      Alumni Engagement Committee:  Brother Tim Holman has agreed to serve as Chairman of this committee. We all can agree that the robust, energized involvement of brother alumni is critical to our Fraternity’s growth and excellence. National Councilor Scott Brown is serving as Advisor.

9.      DEIA Committee:  Brother Pedro Von Simpson has agreed to serve as Chairman of this committee and former CEO Sam Medley, a past chair of this committee, has agreed to offer his help and guidance to Brother Von Simpson.  National Councilor Bailey is serving as Advisor.

10.  Governance Committee: Brother Patrick “PJ” Best agreed to serve as chairman. National Councilor Jon Hays is serving as Advisor.

11.  Health & Safety (Risk Management) Committee: Brother Curtis Wayne Pangle agreed to serve as Chairman. National Councilor Andy Fruth is serving as Advisor.

12.  Philanthropy/Services Committee: Brother Evan Ernst agreed to serve as Chairman, with Brother Mike Rosser agreeing to stand by and assist in all ways possible.

I was privileged to spend a great deal of time with Brother Rosser on my visit to Colorado, including our travel from Denver to Fort Collins to meet with our Alpha Sigma brothers there and Brother Rosser arranging a breakfast the following day with he and Brother Patrick McGlinchey, who serves on the BOG. I am so grateful to Brother Rosser for sharing with me so much valuable information regarding Philanthropy, Service, the Foundation, and many other Fraternity issues. National Councilor Ray Carlos is serving as Advisor to this committee.

13.  Ritual Committee: Brother Matthew Grizzle agreed to serve as Chairman. I am serving as the National Councilor Advisor to this committee.

14.  Undergraduate Advisory Board: Brother Ryan Miller is the current Chair of the UAB. National Councilor Ray Carlos is serving as Advisor.  

15.  Awards & Nominations Committees: Given other issues that necessitated attention these first six months, as well as the lack of necessity of appointment of these committees at this early stage of our Fraternity’s two-year cycle, I intentionally held off appointing Chairs to these two committees. Now that we are in 2024, I am inviting all brothers who are interested in serving on one of these committees to please reach out to me, together with your background and reasons for wanting to serve in this way.

Deans:

      As you know, our CEO recently announced the hiring of Brittany Ankeny who now serves as Director of Learning & Talent Development. Her involvement in the education component of our Fraternity has not eliminated the need for our Deans. Indeed, I recently met with several Deans and reinforced my enthusiastic support for their continued involvement. Our CEO has also met with Deans, reinforced the need for their involvement albeit in a modified setting, and is working with all concerned to clarify the scope of their charge. Recently, I sent a request to all Deans for their input as to whether, if at all, our governance documents should be revised to clarify their current role given the hiring of Brittany. I know I join with many in appreciation for the valuable contribution from these brothers.

Domain Directors:

      The National Council has directed the CEO to research and develop a domain director program that meets the needs of our resident and graduate councils and be equally attractive for brothers to volunteer their time and talent. I have discussed with the CEO and National Councilors the history of contribution that domain directors provided and plans going forward, including my full appreciation for the significant contribution this program and its volunteers provided the Fraternity through many years of hard work and giving hearts. It is for this reason that I want this program to survive.

I am convinced the CEO intends to make progress with current domain directors to discuss solutions towards this worthy aspect of our fraternal life and has committed to continue work in establishing a program that makes sense in the current environment given available resources. A lot of things needed to be attended to these last months, particularly in the implementation of a whole new structure of doing business. So please be patient - - this program will be attended to. I intend to continue discussing the progress of this effort and doing all I can to encourage its development.

PROGRAMS:

      I am excited that 2024 will mark a return to an aggressive lineup of conferences for our undergraduate brothers. Even before the Foundation announced its decision to grant the Fraternity over $310,000 (promptly used to fund conferences and other items this year), the National Council had determined to find a way to return to an aggressive schedule of conferences for our undergraduates. The following schedule exemplifies the earnest intent to provide meaningful programming to our chapters.

Zenith Officer Institute:

      Several weeks ago, we held the 2024 Zenith Officer Institute. I am excited about the following:

• double the number of chapters attended, compared to 2023;

• double the number of undergraduates attended;

• fifty-eight (58) of our chapters, consisting of over 200 undergraduate officers!

This is huge increase over the past year’s attendance! 

      I and four other National Council members (Councilors Brown, Carlos, French, and Fruth) were in attendance, along with our CEO and Executive Office staff, Education Deans Chad Warrick and Michael Lukins, Foundation Trustee Mike Bichimer, and Foundation Executive Director Craig Rogers. I witnessed an educational program that undergraduate brothers would not have experienced in any other forum than with several hundred of their brothers in attendance. Also, I had the privilege of meeting with many undergraduate brothers and was encouraged by the many brothers who expressed such a positive perspective of their experience at Zenith and our Fraternity. I am hopeful that 2025 will see 100% chapter attendance.   

Upcoming Regional Conferences:

      We recently announced eight regional conferences that will be held in 2024. Some members have had questions about the locations chosen for the conferences. Please keep in mind before I address why locations were chosen that we are expanding the number of conferences from an original plan of 4 to and expanded plan of 8 in 2024. This is huge, particularly given the fact that the National Fraternity did not host any last year.

      Kudos to our brothers at Alpha Rho Chapter for an outstanding job in hosting a conference last year. But now we turn to the National Fraternity resuming its obligation to bring all of us together across the country in a robust lineup of conferences. We should always strive within our combined spirit of brotherhood to join together as one fraternity. This lineup is designed with that as a primary goal.

      Now, as to the locations:  Please know that several factors were considered in determining the locations, one of which was an effort to make the conference a driving-distance away for our undergraduate brothers. That is, the goal was to maximize the opportunity for chapters to attend by situating the conference within 300 miles of almost all chapters.

      Unfortunately, I am aware of 9 chapters that will be outside the 300-mile radius of at least one conference. As to those 9 chapters, I have asked the Executive Office to reach out to the leadership of each and work with them to see what can be done, including a discussion of access to CEG funds for travel (all these chapters have sufficient CEG funds in their accounts). Plus, in the future we may have to consider adding yet another conference in addition to the 8 we are hosting in 2024, but of course that decision will be driven by cost, available funds, a chapter’s willingness and ability of attending conferences, and other factors.

      With the limited number of conferences in the past, it was common for many chapters to be more than 300 miles from the conference. In other words, chapters falling outside a reasonably close distance was not an unusual situation. We all know that we have historically seen different locations of regional conferences from year to year. One conference being held at a particular location in one year does not guarantee it will host the next year. Indeed, in a fraternity environment, a different strategy is warranted. The selection of sites was done not only to accommodate travel, but to offer different chapters the opportunity to host a regional conference. In the words to me by one of our beloved former presidents, Steve Nelson: “let’s spread the love.”

            The following schedule takes different factors into account:

1.      Feb. 17, 2024: University of Illinois

2.      Feb. 17, 2024: University of North Texas

3.      Feb. 24, 2024: University of California - Berkeley

4.      Feb. 24, 2024: Clemson University

5.      Feb. 24, 2024: Penn State University

6.      Mar. 2, 2024: Chapman University

7 & 8:  Two conferences will be held for those chapters who are not close to the locations of the six conferences listed above: (1) chapters in Washington State and Idaho, and (2) chapters in Colorado. The dates and locations for these two additional conferences will be announced soon. I and other National Councilors are making every effort to clear our schedules to attend one or more regional conferences.

Leadership Academy:

This summer, our Fraternity will host two Leadership Academies, both designed to help emerging undergraduate leaders within our chapters. These are planned for mid-May and early-August, with the locations and dates to be announced soon. Each chapter will be asked to identify two “emerging leaders” within their respective chapters to attend this academy.  

RECRUITMENT:

      I am excited to share the remarkable recruitment success of our Fraternity. It is evident to me and any person’s reasonable analysis that our CEO and his staff made recruitment a priority. I was fortunate to attend a meeting last July in our Headquarters and witness each consultant describe one-by-one the situation at chapters assigned to him. It was clear to me that the consultants were working vigorously on each chapter’s particular situation, to the extent a chapter was willing to take their call and receive the help.

      Over the summer, the Executive Office implemented the Phi Kappa Tau Growth System to include the Recruitment Services Initiative. This was intended to provide a staff member’s consultation with each chapter in their preparation, planning, and execution of their recruitment strategy. Over seventy percent (70%) of our chapters stepped up to utilize the Growth System to date. This initiative, coupled with the aggressive, dedicated effort of our chapter brothers and Executive Office Growth Consultants resulted in the following:

• 1,235 new associate members in Fall 2023;

• 60% of our chapters increased in size from the year before;

• the biggest recruitment class in the last 7 years, with 14 less chapters!

• a 25% increase from the previous year!!!

      I’ve heard that some have said that this high associate number is largely the result of the wildly successful effort by our Delta Gamma brothers at the University of Mississippi. Respectfully, the numbers do not bear that claim out. While we heartily congratulate our Delta Gamma brothers for their incredible success, we don’t want to miss recognizing nor should we unintentionally minimize in any way the other 47 chapters that have increased their chapter’s membership year over year. By any measure, our combined chapter effort in Fall 2023 was an incredible success!

CHAPTER GROWTH:

      I am also excited to share that the average chapter size across the country in 2023/24 has increased approximately 17%. In fact, it is the highest average Phi Tau chapter size in the last five years.

      Similarly, the number of chapters has increased this past year from 78 to 82.  I was proud to attend the chartering of our new chapter at Clemson University. The following is a list of recent and upcoming expansions:

Fall 2023:

• San Diego State University

• Bowling Green University

• Grand Valley State University

Spring 2024:

• University of Dayton

• Texas Tech University

•  St. Louis University

• University of Arizona

Fall 2024:

• Texas A&M University

• California State University – Fullerton

      In addition, I have communicated with alumni from California, Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas regarding the re-establishment of chapters which have closed. As an example, I participated in a Zoom meeting with brothers from Beta Zeta chapter in New Mexico. I was happy to witness their earnest willingness and effort to re-establish their chapter.

      I also traveled to universities for the express purpose of reestablishing closed chapters or assist current chapters. As examples:

1.      I traveled to Lexington, Kentucky to meet with Kappa officers and potential Kappa BOG members.

2.      I traveled to El Paso, Texas for two days to meet with Phi Tau alumni and an administrative official from the University of Texas at El Paso regarding the desire to re-start the Alpha Psi chapter. We discussed plans going forward. 

3.      Similarly, CEO Arnold and I traveled to San Marcos, Texas, to meet with a Texas State University administration official, the incoming and outgoing Texas State Greek IFC Chairmen, and Gamma Psi chapter Resident Council officers, BOG Chairman, and Graduate Council President. The meeting was to discuss our Phi Tau, Gamma Psi chapter returning to a recognized “on-campus” status, recognized by the University and IFC. The meeting was a complete success, and CEO Arnold is working with the Texas State administration and IFC to finalize the plan to reinstate Gamma Psi.  

      I also met with brothers from chapters which are struggling to survive for several reasons. As examples, I and others have met in person and via zoom with undergraduate brothers from two chapters and discussed plans going forward.    

      As I said in July 2023, I am committed to helping brothers to re-invigorate chapters which are close to closing or have closed. I encourage alumni to help in this effort. If you have the inclination and time, please reach out to me to help.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, FINANCIAL UPDATE, & NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE:

      Our Executive Office is now fully staffed. The following is an up-to-date listing of our Chapter Services and Growth/Expansion teams:

      Chapter Services:

                  Drake Berlin                Director of Chapter Services

                  Craig Krygowski           Asst. Dir. of Chapter Services

                  Ethan Bunn                  Chapter Services Consultant

                  Ali Merchant               Chapter Services Consultant

                  Josh Hehman              Chapter Services Consultant

      Growth/Expansion:

                  Hunter Pemberton      Director of Organizational Growth

                  Ryan Callahan             Membership Growth Manager

                  Danny Baldwin            Senior Growth Consultant

                  Noah Shipley               Growth Consultant

                  Zak Belbina                 Growth Consultant

      I am excited to confirm formally that our Executive Office consultants will once again travel to chapters throughout the year to help with recruitment, membership orientation, and other issues. This already began in Fall 2023, where Growth Consultants traveled to 29% of our chapters to help chapters focus on their growth initiatives, along with scores of other chapters actively consulted via phone. In the coming year, all consultants will be on the road!          

      One item I have discussed with CEO Arnold is the responsiveness by the Executive Office staff to member outreach. CEO Arnold has worked hard in restructuring our fraternity’s consultant model in the last months and in that process, Matt has implemented an improved internal performance tracking system. This should improve responsiveness. Additionally, we are considering different software solutions that will better track responsiveness - - basically making our fraternity more “customer friendly.” I’m confident that in Matt and our executive staff’s desire to be responsive and their work toward that end.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

      This Spring, chapters will see a credit on their invoices for the educational assessment. This credit is a direct result of the Foundation’s grant which was approved in October 2023, discussed in more detail below.

      As you know, an educational assessment fees credit was applied to all Fall Chapter bills. Please allow me to make a comment regarding the Fall credit and the dues increase the Council approved last Fall:  Several brothers continue to express to me and others a continuing frustration and negative perspective of the Fall increase. I did my best in a letter I sent the membership last Fall to explain why all this was done in the way it was done. I’m not going to reiterate again what I said in that letter, except to encourage you to go and re-read that letter. In it I describe the good faith analysis the Council and CEO engaged in to determine that our chapter dues were too low and had not been adjusted in several years to address increased costs. The decision to implement a Fall increase had zero - - absolutely zero - - to do with the “rebate” that was approved at the Convention. If members choose to continue to believe otherwise, I’m not sure what else to say but please see that monies are being spent wisely, the increase was necessary and long overdue given economic conditions, and we are now seeing a good return on the investment.  

      On another note, the National Council and CEO are excited that the Fraternity audit conducted by Kirsch CPA Group was completed by year-end 2023; this is a huge accomplishment - - while the Fraternity completes an independent audit each year, this one is the fastest completed audit for Phi Tau in many years!  It demonstrates a commitment to good financial management. The promptness of this audit is due to the dedicated commitment of our CEO, V.P. Lummus, and National Councilors French and Bailey. A huge thanks goes out to these men!!

HEADQUARTERS BUILDING:

      If you have visited and toured our headquarters building in the past year, you will have noticed that not only is it largely empty due to staff and others working offsite, but also in need of significant repair. For these and other reasons, a Task Force was formed for the purpose of analyzing all issues relevant to repairing, modifying, leasing, and/or selling part or all of the building.

      To put this issue in context, it should be noted that the building and lot is owned by the Foundation (81%) and the Fraternity (19%). The Fraternity continues to occupy the building as our national headquarters and is repaying a loan made long ago by the Foundation related to the property. The Task Force is comprised of members of the Foundation (Brothers John Sayers, Jack Alvenus, and Charlie Ball), National Councilor Scott Brown, and CEO Arnold. The Task Force is considering all priorities and issues relative to this issue, including current and future office space needs, financial responsibility, the honoring of donors and legacy, proximity, and other important factors.

      No decisions have been made. Presentations of information gathered to date by the Task Force, including cost analysis and information provided by VSWC Architects, an architectural firm retained by the Foundation, were made at the in-person meeting of the Foundation Board of Trustees in October 2023 and the in-person meeting of the Fraternity National Council in November 2023. Members of each entity posed questions to the Task Force members and a need for additional information. The issue will again be addressed in detail at the joint in-person meeting of the NC and Board of Trustees in April 2024.

      I invite all comments on this complex financial and historical issue. I can assure all brothers that every person is taking this issue at the highest level of importance.

PHI KAPPA TAU FOUNDATION:

      Anyone attending the 2023 Convention can attest that a concern existed among some regarding the operation of the Foundation. Resolutions passed at the Convention called for a detailed review of the financial transactions involving the funding of Kappa chapter’s house as well as a review of all transactions conducted by the Foundation in the past year.  Here is a report of the Foundation, from my perspective as National President of the Fraternity, based on what I have seen and what I know.

      For several reasons, including what occurred at the Convention, approximately one month into my term as President I drafted and sent a letter to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees expressing my concerns and conveying certain requests. I requested a meeting with the Foundation Chairman to discuss these issues. Not long after, I was pleased to receive communication from the Foundation Chairman, Brother Jeff Hilperts, who suggested an in-person meeting with me to discuss all issues relative to the Fraternity and Foundation. We met not long after that, and since then have followed through on our agreement to communicate weekly by phone or Zoom. I also attended the in-person meeting of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees in October 2023.

      I must share that I am very optimistic about the Fraternity and Foundation’s relationship going forward. Several unprecedented steps have been taken by the Foundation which shows a new direction in completely fulfilling its mission in supporting and serving the “educational undertakings of the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity.” From what I have seen, the Foundation is now being operated as a professionally operated 501(c)(3) foundation with its own Executive Director to guide it into the future. Having spoken many times to Brother Hilperts and other Trustees and witnessing the Foundation Board’s actions in the last several months, I believe wholeheartedly that the Trustees are dedicated brothers who earnestly want to support the Fraternity and fulfill their mission in an honorable way.

      To that end, I share the following significant developments that have occurred:

1.      Transparency: These last couple of months, the Board of Trustees have made significant strides in ensuring its commitment to openness and accountability. It is initiating an unprecedented procedure of transparency:

a.      Audits and Forms 990: The Foundation’s IRS Forms 990 (some refer to these as the Foundation’s “tax returns”) are now readily available for review in Guidestar.org. GuideStar is the leading source for aggregated information on nonprofits in the U.S. This platform allows members to review and understand the Foundation’s financial disclosures, providing insights into the Foundation’s financial health. It should be noted that the Foundation has been given a gold star rating.

b.      Other Documents in our Phi Tau Online Portal: The Foundation will be providing ready access to many documents that members have been wanting to see:

            i.      Donor and chapter information: Access to this information will (i) give members access to their own personal giving information, (ii) provide insight into the financial status and use of donor funds, and (iii) for constituents with funds within the Foundation, such as chapter educational grant funds (CEGs), the portal enables members to view available balances and conveniently request funds directly through the website.

             ii.      Audits: The Foundation’s annual independent audits will be available on this portal.

             iii.      Foundation Annual Meeting Minutes: The Foundation is now committed to publishing the meeting minutes of the twice-annual, in-person meetings. They will be available for review upon their approval in the subsequent board meeting.

             iv.      Kappa Chapter Task Force Report: This report, finalized during the summer of 2023 and presented during the 2023 National Convention, is now accessible.

A video tutorial will be provided by the Foundation to assist members in navigating this new system. Please note that these documents are coming down the pipeline and will be made available soon.

This level of transparency by the Foundation and access to information is unprecedented. Nevertheless, if you have concerns going forward, please let me know so that I can communicate these concerns and seek to get them resolved, or, if you choose, seek out a Foundation Board member.

2.      Joint Coordinating Committee:

      One item I requested in my letter to the Foundation was the continued operation of the JCC, albeit with a different focus. The Foundation agreed with this proposal. Specifically, we will proceed with a JCC that will discuss, analyze, coordinate, and make recommendations as to issues that relate to both the Fraternity and Foundation. Preliminary drafts of a revised charge for the JCC’s operation going forward have been drafted and revised and will be circulated for approval by both entities and disclosed to the Fraternity membership as soon as it is approved.

      As an example of the new working environment between the Fraternity and Foundation, the JCC met recently and agreed to conduct monthly meetings hereafter unless circumstances dictate a different cadence. Importantly, the representatives of each entity agreed on several important points: (1) the need for complete transparency as to all transactions; (2) the need for better alignment of vision and strategy, and (3) the need for review by the National Council and the Board of Trustees regarding any significant transaction, and elimination of the past practice of decisions being made by an alarmingly small number of persons. 

      Through transparency, teamwork, vigilance, and adherence to our fraternal values, our membership can attain greater confidence in our Foundation, which will necessarily make our Fraternity stronger for decades to come.   

3.      Grant Request: The Foundation unanimously approved a grant to the Fraternity of over $310,000 for the current fiscal year. Also, the Foundation’s Board communicated to me, VP Lummus, and CEO Arnold the Board’s desire to make similar donations in coming years if the Foundation’s funds allow. Concomitant with that, the Foundation has launched an aggressive “Boles 1,000” fundraising campaign to raise a minimum of $1,000,000/annum.

4.      Kappa Housing-Related Review: At the National Convention, a report was delivered to the governing boards of the Fraternity and Foundation as well as to attending members. This report was prepared by the “Kappa Task Force,” a group comprised of representatives of both the Fraternity and Foundation. It is my understanding that the Task Force reviewed transaction-level materials relating to the funding of the Kappa house construction project.

      Nevertheless, pursuant to the resolution passed at the 2023 National Convention, I requested that the Foundation permit the Fraternity to conduct an additional detailed review of every single transaction relating to Kappa. I conveyed this request in my August letter to the Foundation, my subsequent meeting with Chairman Hilperts, as well as in person later at the Foundation’s Fall meeting. The Trustees approved cooperating with the Fraternity regarding this review. To this end, I personally will be involved in the review together with other members of the National Council and commit to the Fraternity that it will be done. Coordination between the Foundation and I to begin the review has been ongoing, and we are scheduled to commence the review in the coming week. I will report the findings of this review as soon as possible.

5.      Full Financial Review: The Trustees also approved the requested opportunity to conduct a full financial review by a third-party accounting firm - - this is above and beyond the independent audit that the Foundation already produces annually - - provided that all expenses arising from the retention of this additional accounting firm and the time taken by Trustees to assist in the audit are fully funded. I think it’s important to remember that the Foundation is a distinct corporate entity from the Fraternity, and therefore the Fraternity has no legal or policy authority to instruct the Foundation to comply with this request, nor is the Foundation obligated to volunteer opening its books for review in this manner. Nevertheless, the Board made clear to me, Fraternity VP Lummus, and CEO Arnold at the Foundation’s in-person meeting that it was agreeing to do this to demonstrate (1) its complete willingness to cooperate with the Fraternity and address its concerns, and (2) it has nothing to hide.

6.      Headquarters Building Task Force: A Task Force has been formed among representatives of the Fraternity and Foundation to explore issues related to our headquarters. I discuss this in further detail above in the section titled Executive Office, Financial Update, and National Headquarters.

7.      Continuing Communication: As I mentioned, Foundation Chairman Hilperts and I have committed to continue weekly discussions to stay on top of all then-current issues and discuss plans going forward.   

  Given the concerns between the Fraternity and Foundation that I know have been expressed by brothers before, at, and after the 2023 Convention, I truly believe that we have accomplished a great deal relative to Fraternity and Foundation’s relationship. Will some brothers still want responses to their questions more quickly, or continue to distrust the Foundation, or otherwise have doubts or complaints? Based on what I’ve seen and heard, yes, that’s probably the case. But I truly believe that we are working now on a great trajectory to the right place, and I commit to continue that progress.

      Make no mistake about my consistent position:  the Foundation was created to serve the educational interests of the Fraternity, within the confines of applicable law and through its fulfillment of its legal duty to its donors, and it is obligated to continue to do so in the future. I’ve made that very clear to Chairman Hilperts and the Foundation Board. Yet, particularly because the remarkable progress we have made in the last five months and are continuing to make, I encourage every brother to try to be positive with each other and about each other in the spirit of brotherhood, to refrain from encouraging negative comments that are rooted in past frustrations, and continue working together, all of us as brothers, toward what Ewing Boles and others had in mind when creating the Foundation.  I believe we have made gigantic strides in the last several months toward that goal and that we will continue on that path. 

      Brothers, I hope all this information is helpful in sharing with you what’s going on. I will try to continue to provide this type of information regularly. If you have a question or comment about any of the items mentioned above and/or anything else, please reach out to me or any other member of the National Council. We can easily be reached by hitting the link that is below each of our photographs on the website, which takes you to our email address. Mine is mmccrum@phikappatau.org. 

      By the way, I think it’s appropriate that I share some information about Facebook. I’m fully aware that a small percentage of our brothers participate in Facebook posting. I’ve had discussions with Brother Logan Lukacs about the metrics he has found regarding the number of brothers who get information through email, Facebook, Sidelights, and otherwise. While I find a need to get on Facebook every now and then, it is extremely rare. So, if you want me to know how you feel about something, please send me an email or call/text to 210.854.8585. I'm happy to discuss anything with you. I want to hear from you. I encourage you to register for my next Town Hall Discussion. Please sign in and join the conversation!

      With much love for my brothers and our Fraternity,

Michael “Mike” McCrum

National President

Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity