The Diary of Alpha Kappa Psi - Spring 2023

5

Showing Gratitude and Appreciation in the Workplace

PAGE 7

Are Soft Skills or Hard Skills More Important for Job Success?

PAGE 12 AI at Work

Behind the Lens

How Recent Pitt Graduate & Award-Winning Photographer Devin DePamphilis Balances Life and Art

Rise Up With AKPsi!

Eastern Great Lakes Regional Director James Neely, Canisius ’10-Life, rocked this groovy t-shirt at the first ever Pathways in Louisville, KY. Pathways is formerly known as Presidents Academy and Fraternity Advisors Conference and is the combination of the two events.

VOLUME 111

NUMBER 1

FEATURES

pg. 10

It All Started with a Frog Recent Pitt Graduate and Award-Winning Photographer Devin DePamphilis Balances Life and Art

pg. 12

AI at Work

The rise of artificial intelligence and the impact for business leaders

PG. 3

ON-BOARDING Fraternity news, notes and insights

PG. 14

MEMBER DEEDS

The best in chapter news and member accomplishments

PG. 17

AUDIT ETERNAL

PG. 18

LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF Central Michigan University Board of Trustees Member Todd Regis, Western Michigan

’86-Life

PG. 20

INTERVIEW

Get to know Broward County Library Specialist, Whitney Livingston, Central Florida '10.

“He was hiding in the duckweed, just staring at me.”

Alpha Kappa Psi Fraternity

Shaping People, Shaping Business

Since 1904

VISION

Alpha Kappa Psi is recognized as the premier developer of principled business leaders

CORE VALUES

In developing principled business leaders, Alpha Kappa Psi adheres to these lifetime values:

Brotherhood Trust, respect, cooperation, companionship, and aid to brothers is the expected norm

Knowledge

Education and experience is emphasized and shared Integrity

All actions, whether in business or in life, are guided by honesty, ethics, and fairness

Service

Sharing of time, talent, and treasure with society and with our fraternity is a priority Unity

A common understanding of our vision and values that transcends chapter, is utilized to anticipate and create the future

FRATERNITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Micheal E. Dickson, Central Washington ’02–Life, Chair

Michael G. Dickerson, Virginia Tech ’04–Life, Vice Chair

Jane A. Azzinaro, Maryland ’10–Life, Secretary

Don T. Sechler, Arizona State ’96-Life, Treasurer

FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Timothy W. Daniels, Indiana ’06–Life, Chair

Alison Jennings, Oakland ‘02, Vice Chair

FRATERNITY MANAGEMENT TEAM

Corey Reddy, Florida ’13, President

De’Sean Keys, Middle Tennessee State ’13, Executive Vice President

Divya Achtani, Georgia Tech ‘13, Manager

Amanda K. Belcher, Western Kentucky ‘08, Manager

James A. Fuller III, Clemson ’08-Life, Area I Vice President

Jacob S. Drees, Toledo ’11–Life, Area II Vice President

Andrea Nemeth, Montclair State ’91–Life, Area III Vice President

M.C. Moore, Virginia Tech ’86-Life, Area IV Vice President

Kimberly Y. Lewis, Nova Southeastern ‘08, Atlantic Gulf Coast Regional Director

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

C. Steven Hartman, CAE, Miami University ‘16, Chief Executive Officer

Brian D. Parker, CAE, Indiana ‘93–Life, Chief Operating Officer, Alpha Kappa Psi Fraternity and Foundation

Kim Olesker, MPA, Foundation Executive Director

Jason R. Pierce, CAE, CMP, Senior Director of Learning & Development

Melinda S. Rosenthall, Boston ‘18, Director of Data & Reporting

THE DIARY OF ALPHA KAPPA PSI

C. Steven Hartman, CAE, Miami University ’16, Editor in Chief

Liz Buttner, Stetson ‘11, Managing Editor

Alec K. Morand, Loyola Marymount ‘13, Associate Editor Finley Lambouris, Michigan State ‘19, Associate Editor Nicole Klemp, Indiana State ‘04, Contributor

Tria Designs, Design and Layout

Debora E. Barrett, Montclair State ’98, Member

Miriam V. Tomaselli, Marist ‘97, Member

Lane N. Velayo, Cincinnati ’00–Life, Member

David P. Wendroff, Portland ’79–Life, Member

Mathew D. Johnston, Boise State ’12–Life, Treasurer/Secretary

Jacqueline Ginarte, Florida International ‘04–Life, Member-At-Large

J’Ream Lewis, NJIT ‘17, Atlantic Metro Regional Director

Linwood Jones, South Carolina State ’07-Life, Carolina Coastal Regional Director

Taylor Patterson, Towson ’17-Life, Central Atlantic Regional Director

Shane M. Wakerling, Cal Poly State ‘06, Central Pacific Regional Director

Michael J. Schmidt, Chapman ’01–Life, Desert Southwest Regional Director

James Neely, Canisius ’10-Life, Eastern Great Lakes Regional Director

Margaret Haden, Kansas State ‘09, Eastern Great Plains Regional Director

Shawn Pelc, Edinboro ’15-Life, Northern Atlantic Regional Director

Liz Buttner, Stetson ‘11, Director of Marketing & Communication

Jane Williams, Executive Assistant

Amber Hambach, UC-San Diego ‘20, Associate Director of Learning & Development

Alec K. Morand, Loyola Marymount ‘13, Associate Director of Member Engagement

Ciera Fernandez, Lipscomb ‘19, Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator

Je’nai Lee, North Carolina-Greensboro ‘19, Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator

The Diary of Alpha Kappa Psi is published two times annually. Non-profit Standard postage paid at Bolingbrook, Ill., and additional offices.

Alpha Kappa Psi provides lifetime subscriptions of The Diary to Life Members (U.S. and Canadian addresses). Copies of the magazine are also distributed to donors to the Alpha Kappa Psi Foundation.

Luke Bottorff, Virginia Tech '04-Life

Kenneth B. Hastey, Saint Louis ’76–Life, Director Emeritus

Stephen E. Smith, Florida ’86–Life, Member-At-Large

Sahil Maherali, Texas at San Antonio ’16, Northern Rio Grande Regional Director

Wendy A. Wendroff Tri-State ’80–Life, Pacific Northwest Regional Director

Tim Veigle, Central Florida ’04–Life, Southern Bluegrass Regional Director

Clarence W. Seal, Tennessee Tech ’85–Life, Southern Delta Regional Director

Jennifer L. Hughes, San Diego ’05–Life, Valley Crossroads Regional Director

Brianna Anderson, Western Washington ’09-Life

Western Great Lakes Regional Director

Scott D. Todd, Central Washington ’02Life, Western Great Plains Regional Director

Mikeiveka Sanon, Miami ‘20, Chapter Educational Resource Coordinator

Finley Lambouris, Michigan State ‘19, Digital Education Coordinator

Terry Fuller, Accounting Administrator

Kelly Lewis, Accounting Administrator

Aysia Lewis, Chapter Operations & Learning and Development Administrator

Stephanie M. Bentley, Foundation Specialist

To access the fraternity archives, visit akpsi.org/diary

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to:

The Diary of Alpha Kappa Psi 8001 East 196th Street Noblesville, IN 46062 mail@akpsi.org

Salutation to the Dawn

Look to this day!

For it is life, the very life of life. In its brief course

Lie all the verities and realities of your existence: The bliss of growth; The glory of action; The splendor of achievement; For yesterday is but a dream, And tomorrow is only a vision; But today, well lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, And every tomorrow a vision of hope.

— KALIDASA

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

On Knowing Yourself

Do you know your values and how they align with your actions? Have you identified your leadership style and tendencies? Throughout this issue of The Diary , you will find stories from members of the Fraternity, sharing how they lead from their positions.

As we approach each day, it is the essence of Alpha Kappa Psi for each of us to consider how we greet each day. For us, the question isn’t “Will we have an impact?” but rather “How will our attitude and actions affect the world around us?”

It’s not always easy to accept this daily charge — growth, action, achievement — which is why this issue of The Diary of Alpha Kappa

ON-BOARDING

Psi focuses on the first of AKPsi’s Professional Pathways: Know Yourself. The members featured in this issue have a sense of self, of purpose. Although this may come across as easy for them, it’s a process of “becoming” that requires introspection, analysis, and feedback. The process is lifelong and iterative. There are days when we feel so comfortable in our roles — as significant others, parents, managers, co-workers, and leaders — but other days when our skin doesn’t seem to fit. The challenge is to“Know Yourself” well enough — our aspirations, our aptitude, and our limitations — to greet the day and to “live it well.”

Reaching New Heights at Elevate

“This past weekend, brothers Ceres, Milan, and Roku represented the Mu Psi Chapter at Elevate in Providence, Rhode Island.

“These brothers had the chance to meet representatives from other chapters in the Atlantic Metro Region, and attended fun and educational learning sessions to further their knowledge on aspects of the business world!”

@akpsihofstra

The interactions with other locations made the event bigger than just the people in the room, and the educational material is top notch.

“The Zeta Psi Chapter traveled to Elevate this weekend, and it truly was a great experience! Not only did we accomplish the goal of leaving with vital information to enhance our business professionalism and networking—awards were also given out!

“We are truly grateful for the experience.”

Elevate was an amazing opportunity to grow one's networking skills, build a level of competency in the topics provided, a chance to explore a fascinating city, and an open opportunity to snag some merch to take home. It was such an amazing growing experience. I cannot wait to attend the next one.

I would tell someone to go to Elevate to hear the incredible speakers like Dayna Thomas Esq., to go to the classes to learn valuable skills for your professional AND personal life, and to meet brothers from around the country!

Have you ever had a class that you didn't actually get anything from it?

Maybe you had a few of these classes? That doesn't happen at Elevate. All development, all networking, all reward, no waste.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been a full week since I was in Chicago at AKPsi Elevate. It’s also now been a week since I was presented the 2nd Degree Silver Distinguished Service Award. I am still processing receiving the award and thinking about the past 15+ years I’ve served as a volunteer for AKPsi, usually in roles that aren’t the most glamorous or visible so you can imagine my surprise when I realized I was being recognized. It was even more special since @janeotjungle was recognized for her hard work with a Silver DSA as well. I feel pretty lucky to have shared the evening with her.”

@kerrimarie81

Elevate is AKPsi's premiere educational event focused on providing attendees with the knowledge, skills, and ability to describe the value they bring to their chapters or a potential employer.

Appreciation and Gratitude in the Workplace

As leaders in business, showing appreciation and gratitude in the workplace is essential to building positive relationships and fostering a culture of positivity. According to a recent Gallup survey, more recognition is critical for U.S. employee engagement. Engaged employees are more productive, stay with their employer longer, and have overall better well-being.

To help keep your colleagues, employees, and clients engaged, here are six ways you can show your appreciation and gratitude for them.

1. SAY "THANK YOU."

A simple thank you can make a big difference, especially when unexpected. During a call or email, acknowledge their contributions and express gratitude for their hard work.

2. GIVE RECOGNITION.

Publicly recognizing someone's hard work is a great way to show appreciation. You can do this through company newsletters, online communities, bulletin boards, or social media.

3. PROVIDE FEEDBACK.

Providing constructive feedback is another way to show you care about their progress. It also demonstrates your investment in their development and success.

4. OFFER PERKS AND REWARDS.

Offering perks and rewards such as bonuses, promotions, or extra time off is a great way to say "thank you."

5. CELEBRATE MILESTONES.

Milestones such as work anniversaries, project completions, or hitting sales targets are perfect times to celebrate and offer appreciation. As a bonus, it can boost morale, too!

6. GIVE GIFTS.

Thoughtful gifts like a personalized thank you note, a gift card to their favorite coffee shop, or a small token can go a long way in showing gratitude and strengthening your relationships.

ACCOLADES

Announcing the All-AKPsi Academic Team

The Alpha Kappa Psi Foundation’s All-AKPsi Academic Team recognizes students who maintain excellence in academic standing while also making positive contributions to their campus and community.

Team members have junior or senior full-time student status and a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. The selection process measures the applicant’s ability to balance the following attributes:

ƒ Pursuit of a degree

ƒ Development of leadership skills

ƒ Interactive extracurricular participation

ƒ Sense of social responsibility

Eight outstanding Team Captains were selected from this year’s applicants to represent the All-AKPsi Academic Team. Congratulations to the 2022–23 Team Captains!

ALL-AKPSI ACADEMIC TEAM 2022–23 TEAM CAPTAINS

 For the complete list of All-AKPsi Academic Team members, scan the QR code.

ALEX ARONSON Florida Intl. ‘21

EJIRO AGOBA Cincinnati ‘22

FAISAL AHMED Boston ‘22

HAILEY ABLER Nebraska ‘20

JASMIN ALVARADOMARTINEZ Fort Hays State ‘22

JESSICA ATMADJA Santa Clara ‘20

MADISON ARDNT Toledo ‘22

TAHMID AHAMED Pennsylvania ‘20

On Job Success

Returning to the Office

Returning to your physical office after getting comfortable with your home setup will undoubtedly have challenges. Here are five items recommended to ease your transition to in-person work again.

A HIGH-QUALITY BRIEFCASE OR TOTE BAG

Since you are probably lugging your electronics, notebooks, and essentials back and forth again, a sturdy and spacious bag is a necessity. Try a stylish tote bag or backpack with built-in shoulder padding if you bring your laptop home daily.

NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES

If you didn't invest in a pair while working from home, now is the time to purchase a quality set of headphones. They will block out distractions and help

you stay focused in a busy environment.

PORTABLE CHARGER

At home, you might have a phone charger in every room, but not at work or during your commute. Find a portable charger that meets your battery needs to prevent your phone from running out of juice when you have a train delay after a long day.

STRESS BALL OR RELAXATION TOOL

Sometimes, you must decompress after a stressful presentation, and those short walks around the block may no longer be an option. Find a relaxation tool or technique to help alleviate tension and anxiety in the office. Stress balls, tangle puzzles, and meditation apps are excellent places to start.

A PLANNER OR SCHEDULING APP

You may be in more meetings and have more chats taking up time during the workday. To protect your time for priorities, find a planner or scheduling app that helps you stay organized with projects and deadlines. Consider if your organization already has systems you can use and if you want the program on your personal phone.

AKPsi’s LinkedIn audience was asked, “Are hard skills or soft skills more important for job success?”

After 714 responses, here’s what our audience had to say:

 47% Equally Important

 44% Soft Skills

 9% Hard Skills

Hard skills are (generally) teachable. Soft skills are harder to develop and can require some habit building.

—Jessica Roper, CPA, American ’05

Hard skills will give you the ability to know what needs to be said or done. Soft skills will give you the ability to identify the best way to do it. Knowing the solution to a problem is important but so is the ability to communicate it in a way that others will be receptive to.

—Nicholas Irmeger, AIC, Illinois State ‘20

Hard skills get you hired; soft skills get you promoted.

—Jacob Klingensmith, Geneseo ‘18

To protect your time for priorities, find a planner or scheduling app that helps you stay organized with projects and deadlines.

PRIDE

Get Outfitted

With dozens of licensed vendors to choose from, you can represent AKPsi in style. Purchase high-quality products for yourself, your next brotherhood event, or use a licensed vendor for your next fundraiser.

With Bonfire, the fundraising process is simple. This platform is a great option requiring no inventory or upfront costs.

OFFICIAL AKPSI SHOP AKPsi MARKETPLACE

shop.akpsi.org

The MarketPlace is housed and managed at the Howell + Wendroff Professional Center in Noblesville, IN, making it a unique shop.

WOMEN OWNED AND PROUD KYLE CAVAN

www.kylecavan.com

You can represent your affiliation with AKPsi and show pride for your alma mater with a Kyle Cavan piece.

CHAPTER BULK ORDERS

GREEK EMBROIDERY

JENNABENNA

www.uptowngreek.com

Uptown Greek has 2,000+ items in its product line, so you can find the right product for your next recruitment and brotherhood events.

www.jennabenna.com

At JennaBenna, they use the best machines and products to create apparel for you to treasure forever.

Fraternal Fundamentals

By Everett W. Lord, Grand President

Agreat life insurance company has recently erected a new home office building a block or two away from my office in the Back Bay district of Boston, where only a few years ago the waters of the bay ebbed and flowed over what is now dry land. Since all this territory is underlaid with strata of marsh-earth and gravel, to get a secure foundation for the great building it was necessary to drive piles down forty, sixty or eighty feet to the firm rock below. The workmen were busy for weeks before the walls of the building began to appear. Thousands of piles, hundreds of tons of cement, were sunk from sight before a stone of the visible foundation was laid, but the massive edifice erected on that foundation will stand for generations.

For a real building the foundation is the most important consideration; you can build nothing more impressive than a woodshed or a hen-house without laying deep foundation stones. The Scriptures tell of the man who built his house on the sand; he was in too great haste to see his house rise, or perhaps he thought he could not afford to spend money on a foundation. For two thousand years he has been recognized as “The foolish man.” The wise man looks well to the foundation on which he builds. Nothing is stronger than its foundation; nothing is likely to be of better quality than its foundation.

The government of the United States was founded on the principle of political equality of men; its strength has come

from the soundness of that fundamental principle. The governments of the old world were founded on the basis of divine right of kings, and the common failure of those governments has been due to that defect in their foundation.

Modern civilization is founded on morality and the sanctity of family life. It has advanced beyond ancient civilization only because these fundamental principles are better and purer than were the bases on which some older civilizations rested.

Modern business is founded on the bases of honesty and service. The great growth of business houses today has been due to the recognition of these fundamental principles more than to special ability or to unusual opportunity.

Our Fraternity is founded on the foundation of individual worthiness, fraternal aspiration, commercial idealism and institutional loyalty—bases sufficiently firm and deep for a noble edifice. The strength and glory of the fraternity today is found in its adherence to these fundamental objects for which it exists.

To every chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi my first message would be a call to keep clearly in mind these bases on which the Fraternity is founded, and to make some definite plans by which during the present year these fundamentals may be emphasized. I hope that every chapter may make a definite program for the year, with specific plans for “furthering the individual welfare of its members”—

developing their strength and strengthening their weaknesses: for “fostering scientific research in the fields of commerce, accounts and finance”— an ambition worthy of any body of scholars: for “educating the public to appreciate and demand higher ideals”—a really tremendous task, but one on which notable beginnings have already been made: and for “promoting and advancing degree courses in business administration,” thus helping in a most effective way to place the standards of college instruction on continually higher planes. With every member making the objects of the Fraternity his objects, and every chapter establishing a clear-cut plan for magnifying the ideals of the Fraternity, the current year will be Alpha Kappa Psi’s best—but only the beginning of better yet to come.

Alpha Kappa Psi has experienced numerous changes to its policies, membership, programming, and priorities in its 119-year history.

Despite these changes, the sentiments made by Brother Grand President Lord in 1923 remain valid 100 years later. The strength and glory of Alpha Kappa Psi today are in its adherence to the objectives members learn to emulate early in their affiliation.

Though these objectives are not explicitly stated within the priorities of each new strategic plan, their spirit is ever-present. As the previous strategic plan transitions to the new one, the Fraternity's direction builds upon the solid foundation laid well before our time.

Alpha Kappa Psi is a community for learning. In chapters, members learn how to become leaders, build relationships, and manage the day-to-day operations of a small business. In business, members continue to build on these skills leaning on their foundations to develop the next generation of principled business leaders. This example illustrates how AKPsi furthers its members' individual welfare and fosters research in related fields.

As business leaders gain more visibility, thanks to the internet and social media, you can easily witness AKPsi leaders educating the public to

appreciate and demand higher ideals. Through the media, their good and faithful deeds become known to the public and spread the good name of the Fraternity.

While college enrollment rates slightly decline, conferred undergraduate business degree rates remain steady, thus reinforcing the essential need for college-educated business leaders. Even members earning degrees other than business understand the importance of developing the soft skills required for a successful career. Relationship building, professional communication, and critical thinking are a few of the many skills members mature in their collegiate years.

Today, we stand on the shoulders of the giants who came before us. Whether you are a student or alumnus, always remain steadfast and committed to furthering the objectives and values of our beloved Fraternity to ensure the foundation we have built upon remains solid.

Left: The December 1923 issue of The Diary was published from then new headquarters of the Fraternity at the J.F. Wild Building in Indianapolis, IN.

Above: A photograph of The Soldiers and Sailors Monument, like the one pictured here, was included in the December 1923 issue of The Diary. The monument is located one block from the Alpha Kappa Psi headquarters at the time.

It All Started with a Frog

How Recent Pitt Graduate & Award-Winning Photographer Devin DePamphilis Balances Life and Art

By Nicole Klemp

From becoming an Eagle Scout to winning a bronze medal in the Junior Olympics, Devin DePamphilis has accomplished more as a young adult than most people do in a lifetime. But it’s Devin’s award-winning photography that is really making a splash for this Spring ‘23 University of Pittsburgh graduate.

Devin’s work has already earned him several prestigious photography awards, including a 2021 gold prize for illustration in the College Photographer of the Year awards and photography category winner in the Taste Awards (which has been called “the Oscars of food, fashion, and lifestyle media”).

We recently sat down with Devin to discuss how his personal experiences, creative pursuits, and membership in Alpha Kappa Psi’s Delta Chapter have influenced his life and shaped his future career plans.

Seeing Green

Since he was a young child, Devin has always loved animals and nature. That love and appreciation deepened when he became a Boy Scout and spent countless hours outdoors. At age 11, Devin began taking nature photos to earn his photography merit badge. At 13, he met a bullfrog who would ignite a lifelong passion for photography.

Devin’s photo, “Seeing Green,” would become his personal favorite and his first photograph to win an award. “I remember walking through the park, just looking around and snapping photos, when suddenly I saw a bullfrog pop up out of the water,” Devin recalls. “He was hiding in the duckweed, just staring at me. I quickly and carefully laid down on the ground, focused on his eyes, and took several photos before

the frog disappeared under the water. I love that photo so much because it jump started my love for photography.”

As his interest in photography grew, Devin’s parents enrolled him in creative summer camps and art classes where he honed his photography skills and learned about different mediums, including the use of miniatures, which are featured prominently in his work today.

“When I was starting out, I focused on capturing plants, landscapes, and wildlife,” Devin said. “Then I started experimenting with macro photography and became inspired. My work examines a minimalist approach, combining miniature figurines with everyday objects, foods, and beverages. This medium allows me to express my sense of humor and, hopefully, put a smile on people’s faces.”

Early Lessons in Perseverance and Leadership

Devin credits much of his personal and professional success to the strong work ethic and leadership skills he gained while pursuing the rank of Eagle Scout. Earning

scouting’s highest honor takes significant time and effort and is something only about 6% of scouts achieve.

As part of the Eagle Rank Requirements, Eagle Scouts must organize and lead a service project to impact their communities. Devin devoted 156 service hours to an organization called Caitlin’s Smiles, which distributes

books, toys, and craft kits to hospitalized pediatric patients throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states. He developed the project plan and managed a team of 16 volunteers to design and assemble stockroom shelving for the organization. Devin continues to give to the organization today by donating his photographs for auction.

Devin joined another exclusive club at age 17 when he won a bronze medal in the 2018 Junior Olympics in Colorado Springs for sport pistol shooting. “I had to learn perseverance to keep practicing and working to improve while also balancing school and other sports. After four years of competing, it was nice to finally see my hard work pay off.”

Bringing Together Passion and Career

His ability to persevere served Devin well as a college student during the COVID-19 pandemic. He spent his entire sophomore year and part of his junior year attending virtual classes from his dorm room. “We went from doing everything in person to

being 90% online. It’s one of the reasons I joined AKPsi. It was a really difficult time, and I wanted to make new connections and be part of a community on campus.”

As an economics major, most of Devin’s classes were outside the business school, but his growing interest in marketing influenced his decision to join the Fraternity. Since then, his Delta brothers have guided and supported his business interests and helped him as he pursued marketing internships. He has also begun working on projects that combine his passions for photography and marketing services, and hopes to continue that type of work post-graduation.

“In the long term, I plan to continue to expose more people to my passion for photography and participate in additional gallery exhibitions.”

See more of Devin’s work at devindepamphilis.com.

Devin DePamphilis Photography

@devin_depamphilis

Devin DePamphilis

“Then I started experimenting with macro photography ... combining miniature figurines with everyday objects, foods, and beverages. This medium allows me to express my sense of humor and, hopefully, put a smile on people’s faces.”

AI AT WORK

THE RISE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE IMPACT FOR BUSINESS LEADERS

By Nicole Klemp

IF YOU’VE NOTICED YOUR DAILY NEWS FEEDS ARE SUDDENLY PACKED with articles about artificial intelligence (AI), you’re not alone. Since research laboratory OpenAI publicly launched its highly sophisticated chatbot, ChatGPT, in late 2022, everyone has been buzzing about AI—particularly in the business community.

While AI is nothing new (the first working AI program was designed in the 1950s), technological advancements over the last few years have accelerated progress in the field, and OpenAI just made it accessible to anyone with Internet access.

While AI has historically been within the purview of scientists and technologists, it’s become very real for everyday people. We now see its potential to fundamentally change how we live and work. Whether you embrace AI or remain suspicious of it, there’s no denying it’s likely here for the long haul. In a recent survey by The Deloitte AI Institute, 94% of global business leaders said they consider AI critical to their organizations’ success over the next five years.

WHAT IS GENERATIVE AI?

Advanced chatbots like ChatGPT are powered by generative AI. With this technology, you can have a text conversation with a chatbot and ask it to complete specific tasks, like generating creative ideas, writing various types of content, and even debugging programming code.

Generative AI is “trained” with billions of documents, data points, and bits of information. It scans this content for patterns and uses what it learns to answer questions and respond to requests, mimicking the human style and rhetoric it picks up. But while AI models are said to be trained on highquality academic data from trusted sources, algorithms can’t necessarily tell the difference between good and bad information.

As those tools have become more advanced, some jobs have been eliminated, and new ones have been created. AI is another big step in that evolution of work.

LIMITATIONS & RISKS

While the responses ChatGPT provides are undoubtedly impressive, the outputs are only as good as the inputs it’s been given, so you can never be sure what you’re getting back is 100% accurate. The version of ChatGPT currently available to the public was only trained on data sets available through 2021, and not all the information was fact-checked for accuracy.

For example, when we asked ChatGPT to write an elevator pitch for AKPsi, it said the fraternity has “over 300 chapters,” when there are actually only 183 collegiate chapters today.

To ensure any work produced with the help of AI is accurate and doesn’t plagiarize, human oversight is critical. Areas such as compliance, confidentiality, and data privacy will also become increasingly important in business. Incidents of generative AI presenting bias (which it has learned from the existing biases in our society) have also been uncovered. As organizations find new use cases for AI, principled business leaders will be critical in ensuring corporate values and ethics are upheld.

AI IS ACCELERATING CHANGE ACROSS INDUSTRIES

Since before recorded time, people have used tools to help us live and work. As those tools have become more advanced, some jobs have been eliminated, and new ones have been created. AI is another big step in that evolution of work. Instead of thinking of it as a replacement for humans, we can think of AI as a powerful new tool in our toolbox (or, perhaps, a new co-worker).

While there is still a lot to consider when it comes to incorporating AI into our day-to-day, many startups, corporations, nonprofits, governments, and educational institutions are already developing ways to become more efficient and scalable with the help of AI.  In practically every industry, there are some timeconsuming, repetitive tasks that AI can take off employees’ plates. We’re already seeing sales and marketing teams use AI-powered tools to create content and automate tasks like

identifying and engaging target buyers. The customer service field is also undergoing transformational change, as sophisticated chatbots replace entry-level roles. Even the finance and accounting industries are preparing for an upheaval. Gartner recently predicted that 40% of finance roles will be reshaped into new positions—or eliminated entirely— by 2025.

Generative AI will be a boon to learning and development too. Khan Academy

What ChatGPT Had to Say About AKPsi

To test ChatGPT’s capabilities, we asked it to provide a brief overview of our fraternity:

is launching a pilot with ChatGPT to help tutor students and assist teachers with lesson planning, and Duolingo wants to use it to help people improve their conversational skills as they learn new languages. Researchers are even looking at ways to use AI to train teams to communicate more effectively and become more emotionally intelligent.  Many professionals throughout our brotherhood have indicated they’re already using AI in their own organizations, including Larry Ball, a founder of the Psi Tau Chapter at Howard University. “For our clients, AI is largely used to generate art and product concepts, power search and customer content personalization, and more recently, as a feature we support for clients with Google Workspaces."

Even as AI becomes a more prominent part of the modern work team and manual tasks are automated, the need for human creativity and ingenuity will remain. Soft skills, strategic thinking, and strong leadership in the workforce will become more critical than ever.

EMBRACING THE FUTURE OF WORK

RESULT: Its response was well-written, but not completely accurate. (AKPsi currently has 183 active chapters, not “over 300.”)

We also asked it to do a little bit of copywriting:

Change can be scary, and sometimes for good reason. We should always tread lightly when a powerful new technology is introduced and think through and plan for all possible outcomes or ramifications. Business leaders can embrace the benefits of AI while staying vigilant and preparing for the potential problems it could create.

As Uncle Ben so wisely told Peter Parker, with great power comes great responsibility. If we can manage to use AI in the right ways, it has the potential to help us increase innovation and productivity, improve interactions, and create new opportunities.

RESULT: It wrote a decent membership pitch, but probably won’t win any advertising awards any time soon.

As more organizations incorporate AI into their products, services, and workflows, there will be a massive need for enablement on the technology and upskilling for new jobs. If we can leverage AI to make work more efficient, we can spend more time on what matters most, personally and professionally.

MEMBER DEEDS

MemberOwned and Operated M

errick Weingarten, Michigan '18, (at right) recently founded Kiwiclo, a retail and lifestyle brand celebrating its collaborating athletes' talent and philanthropic values. Weingarten leveraged his existing love of merchandizing and fashion into a business using athletes' popularity and "superhero" image to create fashionable products consumers can wear to sporting events.

Kiwiclo goes one step further, creating a positive impact by working to raise funds with each sale for philanthropic organizations special to the collaborating athletes. One example is in December 2022, when Kiwiclo introduced the Kiwi x Blake Corum Collection. Merchandise sold out in days and raised money for the Larry Prout Jr. Courage Fund, a non-profit dedicated to financially aiding hospitalized children's families.

Weingarten joined Alpha Kappa Psi his sophomore year to meet driven, like-minded individuals. He credits the new member education process with helping hone his organizational skills and create life-long memories.

Kiwiclo is busy laying a foundation for a bright future. Weingarten noted the brand is cultivating about 10 to 15 collaborations in the next few months. When asked where he envisions Kiwiclo in five years, he describes a unique brand known for providing quality products in partnership with athletes across the sporting world

To support Weingarten, follow @Kiwiclo on Instagram to know about the next merchandise drop.

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Event Co-Chairs Katianna Vilson, Central Florida '22, and Ashia Grant, Central Florida '21, hosted the first "Melanin Market" with the Nu Chi Chapter for a day of shopping, music, and performances to commemorate Black History Month and empower the Black community. The University of Central Florida's Big Sister Little Sister Mentoring Program, the John T. Washington Honor Society, Taxes by Katrice Business Solutions, and La Baniels Vintage shop were among the organizations and businesses in attendance. Vilson said the chapter received sponsorship from GO See The City, a local company aiming to end food waste, after networking at the event!

FLORIDA ATLANTIC

Chapter Anniversary Milestones

The Delta Pi Chapter completed a successful fundraiser to support chapter events and programs. The chapter advertised exam week care packages through parent Facebook groups for on-campus students. Parents could pay for a basket delivered to their students by our Delta Pi members. The chapter raised $600 and plans to continue building upon this success.

In February, members of the Sigma Omega Chapter attended Blazers & The Arts hosted by Progressive Black Men to celebrate Black History Month and their fellow students' artistic talents. Cabria Brown, Florida Atlantic '22, displayed her original art piece and performed the accompanying poem for the first time entitled "Mirror."

GEORGIA TECH

Third-year computer science major Sreekar Madabushi, Georgia Tech '21, appeared on the February 22 episode of NBC's Jeopardy. Madabushi was invited back for Jeopardy's High School Reunion Tournament after appearing in the 2019 Teen Tournament with 26 other contestants.

HOFSTRA

100 YEARS

ƒ Alpha Lambda— Washington University (rechartered in 1950)

ƒ Alpha Mu—University of Wisconsin-Madison

ƒ Alpha Xi—University of Iowa

ƒ Alpha Omicron— Syracuse University

ƒ Alpha Pi—Southern Methodist University

75 YEARS

ƒ Beta Upsilon— University of South Carolina (rechartered in 1998)

25 YEARS

ƒ Omicron Upsilon— Cornell University

ƒ Omicron Chi—Case Western Reserve University

ƒ Omicron Psi— University of Kentucky

AKPsi is back at Duke University! The Beta Eta Chapter at Duke University rechartered on April 16. The Installation Team initiated 37 members and celebrated with the newest members of the Fraternity.

The first Mu Psi Music Night, a charity concert event to raise funds for the American Heart Association, featured the band Weird America and Hofstra student performances. The chapter donated $430 from the event to the American Heart Association.

10 YEARS

ƒ Chi Phi—Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

ƒ Chi Upsilon—Ramapo College of New Jersey

CREIGHTON

DUKE

MEMBER DEEDS

HOWARD

Sanaa Davis-McClain, Howard ‘21, was featured by Allure in “A Howard University Dance Captain’s Entire Routine, from Waking Up to Showtime.” Davis-McClain breaks down her day from making breakfast and attending her morning fitness class to college courses, dance practice, and performing at Howard University football games.

Brandon Henry, Howard ‘21, competed alongside the Howard University Debate Team in the Howard vs. Hampton unjudged exhibition discussing whether K-12 schools should create an African-American curriculum.

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE Career Updates

ƒ Diana D. Correia, Syracuse ’14-Life: Program Manager for Business Banking Events, JPMorgan Chase

ƒ Emily Clemente, Radford ’20: Front Desk Supervisor, Highlander Hotel

ƒ Michael G. Dickerson, Virginia Tech ’04-Life: Chief of Staff of the National Intelligence Management Council, Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI)

ƒ Zachary Duren, Hofstra ’19: Project Coordinator, Northwell Health

The Gamma Epsilon Chapter participated in THON to raise awareness and funds for the Four Diamonds Foundation. THON is a 46-hour no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon culminating year-long fundraising efforts. The chapter raised $74,108.64, a chapter record that made them a Top 5 Fundraising Organization at Penn State.

SANTA CLARA AND UC-SANTA CRUZ

On February 18th, the Psi Omega Chapter and Chi Gamma Chapter members participated in the Save Our Shores beach cleanup. After the event, members celebrated service and brotherhood over pizza and s’mores with a bonfire.

TOLEDO

The Gamma Eta Chapter announced their newest corporate sponsor, the Rudolph Libbe Group. The chapter is excited to learn and grow their knowledge with the partnership.

internships, scholarships, and grants. Psi Upsilon members provided resources, keynote speakers, and engaging activities for students to utilize during this event.

UC-SAN DIEGO

The Nu Xi Chapter at the University of California San Diego hosted its annual volleyball mixer. This interchapter event gathered members from the Omicron Omega Chapter at UC-Santa Barbara, the Pi Psi Chapter at UC-Irvine, and the Alpha Upsilon Chapter at UC-Los Angeles for a fun-filled event strengthening interchapter relations!

WESTERN MICHIGAN

Todd Regis, Western Michigan ‘86, was appointed to the Central Michigan University Board of Trustees by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer for an eightyear term.

Regis is the Recorder/Officer and Director of Legislative & Community Affairs for United Food & Commercial Workers Local 951. For the Fraternity, Regis previously served as the Chair of the Alpha Kappa Psi Foundation.

TEXAS TECH

The Eta Theta Chapter hosted its first annual golf tournament fundraiser in October. Thirtytwo players, including brothers, alumni, and community members, joined to make this event happen. Due to the chapter reaching out to sponsors in their community, members raised the most money in a single event in their chapter's history. The chapter is excited to do it again in the future, making it more prominent and interactive each year.

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UC-MERCED

The Psi Upsilon Chapter partnered with the university and alumni to host “Appathon,” a three-day event for the university community targeted toward giving back and educating their fellow Bobcats on how to position themselves for jobs,

PENNSYLVANIA STATE

Alpha Kappa Psi has been notified these Brothers have finished their course on Earth and have moved on to the Audit Eternal. The listing here represents information received by Alpha Kappa Psi between 10/4/2022–2/28/23.

BAYLOR

C. Robert Byrd ’59—Life (7/11/2019)

BOSTON COLLEGE

Norbert Dalkiewicz ’64 (2/4/2023)

BRADLEY

Dennis Cliff ’62—Life (1/5/2023)

CALIFORNIA STATE— LONG BEACH

Dwayne Smith ’57—Life (1/10/2023)

CARSON-NEWMAN COLLEGE

Alfred Strand ’62—Life (10/11/2022)

CENTRAL WASHINGTON

Brian Hebert ’05 (10/12/2022)

GEORGE WASHINGTON

Barton Kogan ’67—Life (10/3/2022)

IDAHO STATE

William Roberts ’69—Life (2/14/2023)

Harold White ’60 (12/13/2022)

MICHIGAN STATE

Andrew Chabak ’77 (9/5/2022)

OKLAHOMA STATE

Kenneth Goosen ’57—Life (12/1/2020)

OLD DOMINION

Robert Mancuso ’62 (12/18/2022)

Wong Ark ’69—Life (10/11/2022)

SETON HALL

Frank Miele ’58 (12/29/2022)

SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE

Margaret Davis ’87—Life (7/9/2017)

ARKANSAS

William Brandon ’73 (1/1/2019)

FLORIDA

Fotios Bokas ’48 (2/2/2023)

ILLINOIS AT URBANACHAMPAIGN

Jack Morrison ’48 (1/18/2023)

IOWA Tony Clark ’74—Life (10/23/2022)

MINNESOTA

Gerald Vacha ’48 (6/6/2022)

Steven Rosing ’56—Life (10/19/2022)

Kenneth Affleck ’74 (5/1/2022)

L. V. Hanson ’49—Life (1/26/2023)

Robert Swedien ’49 (12/22/2022)

Harvey Newquist ’61—Life (1/2/2023)

NORTH CAROLINACHARLOTTE

Norman Luke ’70 (12/4/2022)

ST. THOMAS James Kurpius ’57—Life (3/15/2022)

TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE Tammy Tidwell ’83 (10/11/2022)

WASHINGTON Clifford Bourassa ’64—Life (8/1/2022)

WASHINGTON STATE Ralph McMillan ’63—Life (8/20/2022)

WAYNE STATE Paul Dammes ’53—Life (10/16/2022)

WINTHROP Mark Rodman ’85—Life (6/15/2022)

TONY C. CLARK, IOWA ’74-LIFE

DECEMBER 25, 1953— OCTOBER 23, 2022

Tony was a beloved member and leader of Alpha Kappa Psi. When speaking with Brothers, he was described as someone who could build amazing relationships and was a key leader because of his sincere involvement and love for the Fraternity. As busy as Tony was with his professional career, he always made time for AKPsi. As a regional leader, Tony was a key member in planning the 1987 Des Moines Convention, which at that time was planned by volunteers. In 1985, Tony was a recipient of the J.D. Sparks Fellows Award for his devoted service rendered during the Detroit National Chapter Meeting. May we remember Brother Clark as a good and faithful servant to our cause.

DEBORAH “DEBBY” ORFF

FEBRUARY 18, 1952— OCTOBER 20, 2022

Debby was an integral part of the administrative staff of Alpha Kappa Psi for more than 17 years. During her time with AKPsi, if you called the office, Debby was one of the first voices you heard and if you received a membership certificate and card, Debby created it. She truly cared for the members, volunteers, and staff of AKPsi, and while not a member of the Fraternity, she gave her heart and soul with rarely a complaint.

Dear Todd

Eighteen and ready to be the first in your family to ever go to college; where will it lead?

Part time at the grocery store to earn money for college will have its own education. Co-workers elect you as their union steward before you even start college, you will learn conflict resolution, confidentiality and problem solving in real life quickly.

Classrooms will challenge you; but you need more. AKPsi will help. Confident in yourself but wanting to learn more, this will be the right choice. You will engage by serving most offices including chapter president and be rewarded by your peers with the Bronze Distinguished Service Award, as well as lifelong friendships. You gained experience leading, working with others, and developing your life long motto of under commit and over deliver. AKPsi will remain part of your life as you serve multiple volunteer roles and 10 years on the Foundation Board.

Professionally you accept a job offer from the UFCW union and continue to advocate for workers’ rights in Michigan. You will help grow and modernize the union, and build managementlabor relationships as it becomes Michigan’s largest. You will be rewarded with multiple responsibilities and be elected by the 32,000 members to serve as one of the top three officers.

You will find love, heart break and love again. You will be a father to two and gain two more from love. You will cherish time with your family and their adventures through life.

You will learn conflict resolution, confidentiality and problem solving in real life quickly.

Your political ambitions will be nourished as you intern in DC in college and later engaged in State and Federal politics. Walking the halls of congress and the white house, attending conventions and inaugurations, you will meet every man who held the office of President during your life time except LBJ. Political leaders will seek your advice and counsel.

Michigan Governors from both parties will appoint you to serve at their pleasure seven times. You will be the only labor union person in 100+ year history to lead the Commission of Agriculture and recently become a trustee at Central Michigan University.

Civic and Community involvement will define you through coordinating supplies for Michigan’s rapid response for 400+ refugees from Hurricane Katrina, coordinating the delivery of 90+ semi-trucks of water and 62+ tons of food to Flint during the water crisis, and serving as a member of the Food Insecurity Council addressing shortages and needs of your fellow Michiganders during the pandemic.

Success from these lessons you have learned in professional and personal life:

ƒ Be the values you talk

ƒ Always say ‘Thank You’

ƒ Always ask what can I do and never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself.

ƒ Be able to say I AM SORRY

ƒ Have strong convictions and embrace change

ƒ Take care of yourself, your family and your team

ƒ Always be humble and kind

Your father said that success isn’t measured by the model of car in your driveway, the house you live in or the clothes you wear. It is measured by you being the best friend, husband/father and co-worker that you can and leading by example for all who follow.

TODD J. REGIS

ƒ Central Michigan University Board of Trustees

ƒ Recorder/Officer and Director of Legislative & Community Affairs for United Food & Commercial Workers Local 951

ƒ Chairman, UFCW 951 Community Foundation

ƒ

Shareholder/Owner

Green

Bay Packers Professional Football Team

Your father said that success isn’t measured by the model of car in your driveway, the house you live in or the clothes you wear.

WESTERN MICHIGAN ’86-LIFE

What was your first job?

The first job I got was working at McDonald’s at 16. I was a cashier and worked the drive-thru.

What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?

Besides sleeping, I try to hang out with my friends. I do trivia night every Thursday with my friends. I also like to bake a lot. My current thing to bake is cookies.

What is the best advice you have been given?

Everything happens for a reason and in due time, everything is going to work out. It might not work out when you want it to, but usually there is an end of the line to the problem.

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?

Whitney’s Favorites

FOOD: What is your go-to comfort food/meal?

Macaroni and cheese

BOOK: What book are you currently reading?

All-time series, Harry Potter. For casual reading, cookbooks.

MUSIC: What are you currently listening to?

Lo-fi alternative rock

INTERVIEW

WHITNEY LIVINGSTON

 Literacy Coordinator, Broward County Library

 Section Director, Atlantic Gulf Coast Region

 Fraternity Event Speaker

“No No, Seriously, That Really Did Happen to Me.” That would be the title because when I tell people stories of things that happened to me, people say, “What? Really?” I’m not playing with you, it really did happen to me.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick?

SongPop, Instagram, and Spotify.

When will you know you’ve “made it?”

For me, I made it when I am satisfied careerwise, and I’m satisfied in my personal life. Also, when I feel like I’m making a difference in someone else’s life.

What is your “dance like nobody is watching” song?

Anything 2000s pop music. Britney Spears, NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, TRL, Janet Jackson … they’ll make me dance like no one is watching.

How many hours do you get to the airport before a flight?

It depends on where I’m going and the airline, but I try to do at least two hours. I have done 45 minutes and got through security in time, but two hours if usually what I do.

You can ban one question from the interview process forever. Which one do you choose?

“Why should we hire you?” Obviously you need a job! Let’s not make it awkward.

TV: What show are you currently binging?

I watch old episodes of Daria or competition shows like The Great British Bake Off.

SPROTS: What is your favorite sport to watch and which team do you root for? College football. Obviously, I root for my alma mater, the Knights.

AKPSI: What is your favorite AKPsi experience?

Besides my initiation and getting my Silver Distinguished Service Award, double duty officiating and being part of an All-AKPsi bridal party at my best friend’s wedding. The bride and five bridesmaids are all brothers!

“I tell people stories of things that happened to me, people say, “What? Really?” I’m not playing with you, it really did happen to me.”

CENTRAL FLORIDA ‘10

LISA CALANDRIELLO

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO AKPSI? When I was in college, I knew people who were pledging AKPsi. I thought that would be a great experience for me so at the beginning of my sophomore year, I decided I was going to go out for AKPsi.  WHAT IMPACT HAS AKPSI HAD ON YOUR LIFE? AKPsi really helped me come out of my shell. It was through AKPsi I learned to think on my feet. I’ve been told in business situations I’m a social butterfly and I really work the room. I think that is because of AKPsi. Just being in the environment and learning those skills of building relationships.

 WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IT IS IMPORTANT TO GIVE TO THE FOUNDATION? Giving to the Foundation is my way of being able to give back and I hope as I’m giving, they’re using this to help build their foundation to further their education. I give through the

Chapter Educational Grant because my donation can help offset their costs. If the reason they're not participating is cost, I want to take that off the table as much as I can.

 WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WHO IS RELUCTANT TO GIVE? Start small and see where it goes. The Chapter Educational Grants are one of the best places for starting small.  WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT CONTRIBUTING? Seeing what the next generation of members is doing. Their projects, ingenuity, skills, that’s my favorite part of being a member of the organization. 

IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Take the class that didn’t fit into your major that sounded interesting. Maybe it’ll spark creativity in a different way.

AMERICAN ’97-LIFE

Past Treasurer and Secretary, Foundation Board of Directors / Asst. Chief Auditor Certified Public Accountant