Kappa Alpha Journal - Summer 2023 - "Statesmen"

FRONT STORY

The Order’s Commission system remains unique in the fraternal world. This May, following their respective graduations, 76 men were initiated from The Citadel by Theta Commission, 83 men were initiated from VMI by Beta Commission, two were initiated from U.S. Military Academy by Sigma Alpha Commission, and one was initiated joined from U.S. Air Force Academy by Sigma Gamma Commission. Pictured here are the new graduates and alumni from Beta Commission. All these men are alumni in good standing, and many are serving the country in our armed forces.

Ron

Jared

Larry

DEAR BROTHERS

Knight Commander's Message

Dear Brothers,

Summer is here, and with it will come our 80th Convention. Active Chapters have completed the spring term, our Commissions have initiated their new members, and 103 members attended a successful Emerging Leaders Academy.

You might very well receive this edition of the Journal while we are in session in Orlando, August 10–12, at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes. It was at the 78th Convention in New Orleans, four years ago when I took the oath of office of Knight Commander. The prelude to that oath reads in part:

The office of Knight Commander is arduous. … There will be times of joy and times of distress … In hours of travail turn to our ritual and read it for strength and consolation, remembering ever that the good of the Order must always take precedence over individual concern. May your term of office be filled with pride and inspiration, true leadership, wise counsel, and genuine growth of our beloved Order.

The Kappa Alpha Journal (ISSN #0888-8868, USPS #014-747) is an educational journal published four times a year by Kappa Alpha Order, 115 Liberty Hall Rd., Lexington, Virginia, 24450. Periodicals postage paid at Lexington, Virginia, and additional mailing offices.

C. Douglas Simmons III (Beta Tau–Mississippi State ‘95)

Truer words could not have forecasted the past four years, yet we have accomplished much for the good of the Order. We have lost many dedicated volunteers and have initiated future leaders. Despite the tumult our members faced coming to college, our chapters initiated 10,212 men. I’ve had the honor to charter eleven new and returning chapters. I’ve bestowed 11 Knight Commander’s Accolades upon deserving alumni for their leadership and service. Many more chapters and individuals have been recognized for excellence in their efforts. A strategic alliance was established between the Order and the George. C. Marshall Foundation. We exceeded the Crimson & Gold Campaign goal with the KAOEF and have done it again, increasing scholarships, grants, and internship opportunities. The Convention met in person in 2021 and we streamlined and modernized several components of the Constitution and Bylaws. The Advisory Council also undertook a historic realignment of the province structure.

The Order faced extraordinary challenges, but we remained steadfast in the face of contemporary headwinds. I have received counsel and support from several current and former leaders, general alumni, and most especially, from the undergraduates themselves. We have grown, learned, and adapted for the benefit of our chapters. New staff positions have been created and best-in-class programs deployed to equip our members for success in the world. As such, we are stronger as an organization and have a clarity of mission to guide us. This much we are obligated to provide, as a moral compass, to our newest members.

Our spiritual founder Robert E. Lee said, “You should do your duty in all things. You can never do more. You should never wish to do less.” As the 41st Knight Commander, I am proud to have discharged my duty, I am proud of our members, I am proud of our accomplishments, and I remain, always, proud to be KA.

May God continue to bless Kappa Alpha Order.

The Kappa Alpha Journal seeks to reflect the Kappa Alpha experience by presenting news of active and alumni chapters, individual members, and the national organization; by addressing current issues facing the Greek system and the Order; by educating and entertaining those interested in the welfare of Kappa Alpha; and by serving as a historical record.

The Kappa Alpha Journal has been published since 1879. From 1883 to 1885 it was known as The Magazine of Kappa Alpha.

Kappa Alpha Order was founded in 1865 at Washington College (Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia. Today, Kappa Alpha boasts 114 undergraduate chapters and more than 60 alumni chapters across the nation.

Fraternally,

“We faced extraordinary challenges, but we remained steadfast in the face of contemporary headwinds.”

SPRING 2023

Letter From the Editor

While every issue of The Journal takes energy, organization, and teamwork to pull together, this one is near the top.

VOLUME 10,212

NUMBER 1

HOW TO CONTACT: Editor, The Kappa Alpha Journal

P.O. Box 1865 Lexington, VA 24450 (540) 463-1865 jlyons@ka-order.org

TO CHANGE AN ADDRESS: Fill out the Alumnus Update on the website or send both your new and old address to Lorin Wilhelm at the above mailing address or to lwilhelm@ka-order.org.

MEMBER:

Copyright © 2023 Kappa Alpha Order

KAPPA ALPHA ® is a registered trademark of Kappa Alpha Order.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Kappa Alpha Order, P.O. Box 1865, Lexington, Virginia 24450

For weeks in the spring, an effort was underway by the Knight Commander, C. Douglas Simmons III, Executive Director Larry Stanton Wiese, Irwin Province Commander Hunter Lipscomb, and alumnus Jeremy Nagoshiner (Gamma Gamma–Lambuth ’95) to arrange a simple photo—three sitting governors who are alumni members of Kappa Alpha Order. Having one alumnus in an office of such stature is a feat, and three is highly uncommon (but not unheard of, just check out page 34). Arranging the picture took several texts, emails, and phone calls for a nexus day when the men would be in the same location in Washington, D.C. The work paid off—everyone met for longer than their staffs clearly planned, discussed higher education and fraternity affairs, exchanged a story or two and a few laughs, and stood for what turned into be several photos. This editor was proud to take those shots and proud of all our alumni who succeed in their chosen field. I hope you enjoy their interviews and the significant research into past KA governors along with interesting vignettes about many of them. How many governors have been KAs you ask? The answer is twenty-one.

Don’t skip the “Moral Compass” department this issue. J. Cal Mayo (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’83) spoke in January to the assembled Number Is at the Number I’s Leadership Institute. His family’s tragedy of losing a son to a fentanyl overdose has become too common in America. Efforts are underway at the state and federal level (and should be increased) to fight this drug trafficking head on. Meanwhile, he and his family, through efforts at Ole Miss, are working to find a better way to address young people’s behaviors that lead them to use and misuse drugs and alcohol to begin with. This is not a drug that anyone wants to take—it can “accidentally” take the life of both a first-time user or hard-core abuser. We greatly appreciate his willingness to share his story, and for writing his heart wrenching essay that appears on page 32.

Additionally, you’ll find the biography of former Executive Director Dick Barnes, who passed away earlier this year, successes of chapters fundraising for track chairs for severely wounded veterans, advice from a real estate all-star on the current housing market, and a profile of a dedicated local alumni chapter volunteer, Luis Garcia.

I want to personally thank Affinity Licensing’s President Dan Shaver, their marketing manager Alan Brown, and their graphic designers Jason Murray and Marcus Torres. They stepped in as industry partners and interfraternal friends to help produce this issue. For that we are very, very grateful.

I hope you enjoy this issue of The Journal!

Fraternally,

Jesse S. Lyons (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina ’98)

“This editor was proud to take those shots and proud of all our alumni who succeed in their chosen field.”

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WHO ARE YOU? Jeremy

Nagoshiner

(GAMMA OMICRON—LAMBUTH ’95)

What are you reading right now and why?

I like to think of myself as a reader, or at least well read. BUT, my pile of books to read has not gotten any smaller over the last year. The last two books that I read were “Get in the Van” and “Horse Soldiers.” I feel smarter having read one of those!

What is in your streaming queue and why?

This is one area of my life that I have not cultivated very well. And that is maybe my attempt at saying that I do not have anything in the queue.

What is on your music playlist and why?

My playlists are fairly diverse. Chances are that you will find everything in my playlist except anything coming out of Nashville in the last 20 years.

What do you do for leisure/hobbies?

• Golf

Jeremy Nagoshiner has a combined eighteen years of experience working for both the legislative and executive branches of Tennessee state government and private practice lobbying. He has served as a budget analyst for the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, Legislative Liaison for the Governor’s Office, and Executive Assistant to the Finance and Administration Commissioner. He also served as an assistant research analyst with the Tennessee Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee. Nagoshiner most recently spent 5 years as Senior Public Policy Advisor at the law firm of Baker Donelson. He has been instrumental in several policy initiatives for fraternities and sororities, especially for KA. He is a member of the Loyal Order.

• Cycling

• Shooting birds/training dog

• Coaching my daughter’s soccer team

What is a common misconception about lobbying ?

We often hear that special interests/lobbyists are bad for democracy and that all they do is wine and dine or buy votes. Laws are complicated and their reach can go terrifyingly far. As a lobbyist, my job is to bring information, or a perspective to the table. In a perfect world, most lawmakers and executive branch officials want to gather

all of the available information before they set policy. In Tennessee our legislative season only lasts 4–5 months, meaning a lot happens in a very short time. A lobbyist brings a firsthand account on how a law would impact a business to the table. Also, due to the speed of our legislative sessions, we have to be able to understand the unintended consequences of a bill and communicate that quickly and concisely back to legislators.

What are some primary

the table. ”

differences between federal and state level advocacy?

I am biased, as a state level lobbyist I see firsthand how impactful state level decisions are on the general population and the health of the business community/economy. We often talk about states being the laboratory of democracy and many legislators take that to heart. While I understand the scope and impact of federal level decisions, we are able to generally get things done quicker on the state level. State legislators are also generally closer to the voter since they go home on the weekends and are only in session for 4-5 months per year. This means, from a lobbyist perspective, we have to be more responsive.

What has changed in your

“As a lobbyist, my job is to bring information, or a perspective to

experience with state-level government in your career?

I am stating the obvious, technology has changed everything. Technology has created a giant megaphone for anyone that wants to use it. While ensuring everyone has a voice in their government, we now have a harder time distinguishing between volume and noise.

What has been your most satisfying professional experience/outcome?

I have been part of some really satisfying legislative outcomes, particularly in the realm of easing taxation and regulatory burdens on private business. I hate to single any out over the others, however, early in my career I helped pass legislation to provide regulatory relief to climbing gyms in Tennessee. I single this one out in particular because it demonstrates how government has the ability to shut down businesses. An agency of Tennessee government decided that they were going to charge new fees for climbing gyms and assess the fee based on the number of fixed ropes in a gym. The state visited one gym and after inspection decided that the fee was going to be an exorbitant number, a fee that would have put them out of business. We met with

the state and they were not willing to revisit their new policy that was based loosely on new regulations. So, we passed a bill clarifying that the state could not charge these small businesses fees based on arbitrary measures. This was a great outcome and ensured that these businesses would not close down due to a state agency needing

more revenue. Again, these were not big and sophisticated businesses, but mostly small businesses who found themselves in the crosshairs of government regulators. While I was acting as a special interest, I don’t think most people think of lobbyists in this way in a wide range of capacities!

“Technology has created a giant megaphone for anyone that wants to use it. While ensuring everyone has a voice in their government, we now have a harder time distinguishing between volume and noise.”

Top: Jeremy with his wife, Valerie, and their daughter Kate.

Right: Jeremy, Valerie, and Kate with Tennessee Lt. Governor Randy McNally, in the well of the Tennessee Senate.

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ONE QUESTION LETTERS

The Journal reached out to the 2022–23 KAOEF scholarship recipients and asked them one question:

us about how receiving a KAOEF scholarship assisted your academic pursuits.”

Here are some of the best responses.

"The KAOEF scholarship helped alleviate a portion of the financial burden attributed from my education while also allowing me to dedicate additional time to my academic success inside and outside the classroom and my executive position as the Number III of my chapter. Additionally, it also allowed me to have more time to focus on studying for my LSAT rather than the cost of my education."

f —Rohan J. Shani (Delta Omega–Baylor ’21)

“Receiving a KAOEF scholarship helped me reach a place financially where I was able to spend more time focused on grades and helping the chapter. I am very thankful for the impact this organization continues to have on my life, and for those who make this scholarship possible.

f —Grant T. Davis (Gamma Alpha–Louisiana Tech ’20)

“ The opportunity provided to me through the KAOEF Scholarships has enabled me to get an unpaid internship with a local criminal defense attorney where I have received real-world experience that is invaluable to my pursuits to attend law school. I received the KAOEF Scholarships during my senior year and my only regret is that I didn’t apply sooner so that I could have more opportunities like the ones I was provided during my final year in undergraduate education.”

f —Cooper T. Jensen (Epsilon Tau–Northern Arizona ’20)

“Receiving a KAOEF scholarship assisted me greatly in my academic pursuits. By receiving the scholarship, I was able to focus so much more on my studies and leading our chapter due to not having to work as much at my part-time job. My parents don't have much, and the financial strain of college was heavy on me. With the scholarship, so much financial burden was lifted off my shoulders, and I can attest that not having to stress about a financial situation translates into all aspects of life. My academic career, social life, and chapter productivity were greatly enhanced due to receiving the KAOEF scholarship, and I can't thank the people who fund it enough for allowing people like me to focus more on the important aspects of college life.”

f — Cameron J. McKee (Epsilon Xi–North Carolina-Charlotte ’22)

“Receiving a scholarship from the Kappa Alpha Order Educational Foundation assisted in paying my out-of-state tuition at Auburn University. As a student in the McWhorter School of Building Science, this scholarship helped pay for the additional professional program fees charged each semester. I’m very grateful for the educational foundation and the opportunities that they provide to Kappa Alpha Order members.”

f —D. Foster Edwards (Nu–Auburn ’21)

Dear Editor,

I received the new Journal the other day. I haven't had the chance to sit down and read it yet, but I did notice the articles on General Marshall. I’m looking forward to going through those!

My father was in the USMC in WWII. His unit was stationed on Mindanao, Philippines, and then sent to China in the "mop up" action (getting the Japanese forces out of China) until the summer of 1946. This picture is of him standing guard at General Marshall's car when he came to China.

Fraternally,

Locke “Skip” Smith, Jr. Delta Alpha–Western Carolina '83

“Tell

Day of Giving Results

The Order surveyed our Instagram followers with the following question: What are your

WHY I Scoop Ice Cream

By Jared H. Simpkins (Epsilon Theta–Western Kentucky ’12)

My wife, Briley, and I decided to start JB's Barnyard Ice Cream as a side hustle at the beginning of 2021. We had both graduated from WKU and were working full-time jobs. With COVID-19, we had mainly been working on our house and working from home. Then an idea struck.

Briley had worked at Chaney's Dairy Farm down in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where WKU is located. She worked on the actual farm milking the cows and in the actual restaurant where Chaney's has food and ice cream. She loved it there, and we both ended up spending a ton of time on the farm, eating ice cream, and just spending time together after she got off work.

At first, we just wanted to open a store front, however, we realize that COVID-19 had been the cause of closing so many. We started small with an enclosed trailer. I finished out the trailer to health inspection codes during the first couple months of 2021, and we were on the road!

We started hitting as many neighborhoods as we could after work and on the weekends, meeting so many amazing individuals in our community. Then requests for public and private events began rolling in from individuals, companies, and schools.

Now entering our third ice cream season, we have already been burning the rubber off our trailer tires. As our brand grows, we would like to expand the sixteen flavors that we normally rotate and establish a second mobile ice cream vehicle. We also have ambitions to make our own ice cream in the near future and get into the wholesale market in the southern Indiana area.

Although JB's Barnyard does not have a storefront, if you are ever near Evansville, Indiana, in the peak of summer, you will not have a hard time finding us!

FOLLOW UP

Kappa Alpha Order and the George C. Marshall Foundation (GCMF) have established a strategic alliance, begun in January 2021. George C. Marshall is KA’s most notable alumnus. KA has honored General Marshall with the highest Active Chapter award for excellence, Marshall was the first recipient of KA’s Distinguished Achievement Award, and the Order seeks to educate about Marshall’s legacy of leadership to its members. The GCMF was established to further those very aims and welcomes opportunities to fulfill its mission of promoting “selfless service, dedicated effort and strength of character exemplified by Marshall’s life and leadership in war and peaceand to inspire new generations to follow his example as they face the challenges of the future.” Additionally, KA seeks to support the Marshall legacy by financially supporting the GCMF. A KA contribution totaling approximately $25,000, from individuals and the Order, was among original lead gifts in the late 1960s to the GCMF and supported the Foundation by placing its original War Memorial in the museum.

Goals include, but are not limited to:

1. Marshall-centered leadership education.

2. Marshall Foundation Library and Archives tours for KAs.

3. An appropriate portrait/ print of Marshall and Words of Marshall book presented to first-time Marshall Award chapter recipients.

4. Mutual donor reciprocity of benefits and recognition at KAOEF’s George C. Marshall Circle Level—$2,500 annually.

5. The GCMF has agreed to a KA designate as a board member.

6. Joint communications strategy on KA and Marshall-related content.

7. GCMF agrees that KA’s original War Memorial Coat of Arms will be publicly displayed on property or agreement for return will be considered.

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Social

November 29, 2022

Facebook @Kappa Alpha Order

Fans of the Hell's Kitchen reality cooking show on the Fox network this year are no doubt familiar with a chef who is part of a group of contestants called “The 40-Somethings,” Alex Belew (Delta Lambda–Middle Tennessee State ’99). As of this writing, Belew is still a contestant on the show. Read more at https://cutt.ly/HellsKitchen ! #EXCELLENCE

134 Likes 5 Shares

c @Gary Wiser

Delta Lambda alumns are very proud of Alex’s big win last night!

@Lucy Manchak:

@Brandon Manchak

10 Comments

@Brandon Manchak: @Lucy Manchak oh nice!

c @Bennett Prestridge:

@Drew M Deckman

c @Walter Rainey: Wheat barley

c @Christian Greer:

@Nick Simons you next boyyyy

@Christian Greer: @Gordon Ramsay

@Christian Greer: If I anonymously sign someone up they gotta compete right?

c @Nick Simons:

@Christian Greer naaaaaaah that ain’t the way it works

c @Christian Greer:

@Nick Simons Pssh

@Gordon Ramsay Is in my DMs and he said your basically in.

Editor’s Note: Alex was the victor of the entire competition, winning the ultimate prize of head chef at the brand-new Hell’s Kitchen Caesars in Atlantic City and a $250,000 cash prize.

“ When I first walked into Hell’s Kitchen, I had no idea what was going to happen,” Belew said. “I quickly came to realize that every day was a true test of mental fortitude, physical endurance, and that the other chefs on the show would become as close to me as family. Walking through that door has been the ultimate moment in my culinary career, and receiving that honor from Gordon is the best validation I have ever received It is such an honor to become the winner of ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ season 21 and know that all of my hard work and sacrifices have paid off! Keep pushing!”

Courts of Honor

At the inaugural Duncan Province Court of Honor on February 25, 2023, the Order filmed a video to help promote and explain the uniqueness and importance of our Courts of Honor which recognize and honor alumni for their continuing interest, s upport and participation in the Order.

FROM JOURNALS PAST

Revolutionary Reorganization of the

the Order’s Leadership

(1933–1935)

While as early as 1913, a paid staff member was introduced as a general secretary, it was short-lived, being abolished in 1915. It wasn’t until 1927 that the first “Traveling Secretary” position was created, which persists today in the form of the Order’s field staff. The 34th Convention that year resolved to establish the post of Traveling Secretary at an annual salary of $3,500, “who would give his entire time to the work of the Order,” and carry out the instructions of the Knight Commander and the other General Officers. Thus, truly began the origination of a national staff.

Having established a professional office and staff doing the primary daily and ongoing responsibilities, the Order reorganized its elected leadership from a “operational board” to a “governance board,”

At the 37th Convention in 1933, the Order continued an operational and leadership evolution. That Convention ordered the creation of an administrative office and combined all the duties of the then-General Officers Grand Purser, Editor of The Journal, Chief Alumnus, and Grand Historian), into one chief staff officer—the Executive Secretary. Our fourth brother to hold that position recently passed away, and Dick Barnes’s KA story is found on pages 18-21. In 1933, those

By Jesse Lyons (Delta Alpha—Western Carolina '98)

now-antiquated General Officers went the way of other arcane KA directorates—including the arcane attempts known then as a Board of Directors, an Advisory Board, and an Electoral Commission.

Then, two years later, the Convention accomplished a more progressive feat. There existed for that biennium the wastefulness of grand offices with grand titles, yet no grand duties. After a four-year period of a committee reviewing a new Constitution and Kappa Alpha Laws, including By-Laws, the Convention acted again. Having established a professional office and staff doing the primary daily and ongoing responsibilities, the Order reorganized its elected leadership from a “operational board” to a “governance board,” thus creating the Executive Council, or national board of directors, composed of five alumni. In this process, the Knight Commander persisted as the only surviving General Officer—dating to its origination at Alpha Chapter in 1868.

The Executive Council, duly elected at each biennial Convention, was once again enlarged by two more councilors in 1963, to our current seven-member format. It has remained the Order’s authority under the Knight Commander’s leadership between those Conventions, for 88 years.

KAPPA ALPHA JOURNAL, January 1936

The Last “Old” General Officers and the First “New” Ones—The Original Executive Council

Editor—C.W. May, Executive Secretary (pages 94–95)

Service

This page is dedicated in appreciation to the service rendered by the Order by three General Officers whose terms expired on January 15, 1936:

The Order acknowledges with appreciation the twenty-four years of service represented by the combined terms of these three Kappa Alphas, and hereby extends its sincere fraternal thanks. It is by freely given service, such as theirs, that our organization is enabled to retain the spirit of brotherhood that it has enjoyed throughout seventy years of existence.

KNIGHT COMMANDER AND NEW COUNCILORS

Promulgation of New Constitution

My dear Brothers:

January 15, 1936

This will advise that the new Constitution, “Kappa Alpha Laws”, including “By-Laws”, as finally submitted by the Constitution Committee at the Thirty-Eighth Biennial Convention, was properly submitted, and certified by the Executive Secretary, acting for the Grand Historian, under assigned duties provided in our Law.

It is further advised that the above mentioned proposed Constitution and By-Laws were adopted as an amendment and in substitution for the then existing Constitution of the Order, in full compliance with the constitutional provisions as existing.

It is further advised and directed that the “Kappa Alpha Laws” as passed by and adopted by the ThirtyEighth Biennial Convention at Memphis, Tennessee, are this date promulgated and shall henceforth be effective as the governing law of the Order.

Respectfully and fraternally, Emmett Irwin, M.D. Knight Commander.

ALLAN S. HUMPHRIES, BETA IOTA, Grand Purser since January 15, 1930, having been re-elected by the 36th and 37th Biennial Conventions.

HENRY B. HANDY, ETA, Editor of THE JOURNAL, who was appointed by the Electoral Commission in July, 1926, and was subsequently elected by each following Convention as Editor and Business Manager of THE JOURNAL.

BRYAN BOLICH, ALPHA PHI, Chief Alumnus, elected by the 34th Biennial Convention, and began service on January 15, 1928.

Knight Commander Emmett Lee Irwin (Alpha Gamma & Psi)

Senior Councilor John R. Berryman, Jr. (Alpha Pi)

Councilor W. Elliott Dunwody (Kappa)

Councilor Frank H. Myers (Alpha Nu)

Councilor Hubert M. Poteat, Sr. (Tau)

GENTLEMEN’ S GEAR

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SOLEM SOLEM

Lessons of Leadership and Excellence

By Jesse S. Lyons (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina ’98)

PHOTO BY JESSE LYONS, EDITOR

NLY NLY Swear ...

LOOSELY DEFINED, AN “ORDER” is a group of people brought together by similar characteristics or values, the recognition of something previously acquired. The membership of our Order is, or should be, brought together in large part by our common beliefs. KA’s values. KA’s purpose is to be a moral compass for the modern gentleman. While members may have varied thoughts on the world and frankly on any topic, they should agree that the stated values and purpose, and other important aspects, are the Order’s guiding light and binding material. Solemn oaths are taken to that extent: these values should be upheld and promulgated, and when practiced, they merit recognition. Two of these values are on display in this feature.

Our members are taught to be leaders among men: on campus, in our communities, and around the world. Leadership development is inherent in the Active Chapter experience. Living, playing, and working alongside brothers for four years provides unrivaled opportunities to lead, broad chances to make a difference, and both inherent and explicit roles for accomplishment. Disagreements in the dorm room or quarrels in the chapter house, once successfully settled, are commonly related by alumni as their most impactful experiences. Layer on KA’s leadership education programs, and there will not be found a better laboratory for leadership on any college campus, anywhere, except in the membership of a KA Chapter.

Members are also inspired to exceed expectations and to strive for excellence. A great KA alumnus would once say, “Stop saying we’re striving for excellence—we are excellent.” Some may disagree with that statement since excellence, it is believed, is the final reward. Actions pursuing excellence are made tangible as personal improvement. These are found in the classroom, in sports, in career-trajectories, and in personal ambitions—both at home and in a career. With further experience and contemplation, it can be realized that the alumnus was simply affirming that day-in, and day-out pursuits are by nature excellent. To drive this point across, there are indeed several other chosen lots in life, and by contrast, they are certainly not excellent. In those cases, mediocrity would be the zenith, and that is not what KA teaches.

Sharing the successes of fellow KAs, particularly in leadership and excellence in their field, is brotherhood incarnate. It should be inspiring to all members to belong to a fraternity alongside leaders and statesmen. Throughout the world and even in their neighborhoods, KA brothers have faced division and yet have worked to achieve a better way. Even years later, those dorm room disputes and chapter house lessons of leadership echo in many places, even Governors’ Mansions.

Press

BRIEF BRIEF

The Journal is fortunate to have spent some meaningful time with two of our three KA governors despite their busy schedules. These chief executives of their states took the time to consider and answer a few questions relevant to all KA brothers.

By Jesse S. Lyons (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina '98)

ING ING

Why did you join Kappa Alpha Order?

MCMASTER: Rho Chapter

KAs began inviting me and others to events during the summer of our graduation from high school. I was very impressed with these men, as were many of my friends. I met Province Commander E. Fleming Mason, a retired FBI agent, who introduced me to the history of KA and the prominent status of its alumni in South Carolina. The day I received my bid is one I will never forget.

REEVES: When I started school at Millsaps College, I knew that I wanted to get involved with an organization that would help build my leadership skills while also giving me the opportunity to network with other students and build lifelong friendships. When it came time to rush, I knew that KA would be a perfect fit.

What is your favorite KA memory with your brothers from college?

MCMASTER: I will forever remember the lengthy, late night voting sessions in which the brothers discussed, debated, and decided which aspirants would be asked to join the chapter. We followed the law and protocols. We respected and heard differing opinions, often at great lengths. But as the day broke, we left the room united as one, confident in our decisions and eager to succeed and prosper as a chapter with our new brothers.

REEVES: I have way too many favorite memories as a KA to pick just one. The entire experience is one I reflect upon often. The opportunity to get to know brothers from all different backgrounds and walks of life is one of my favorite parts of joining KA. Getting to know them and having the opportunity to learn and grow together as brothers was a key highlight of my college career.

Tate Reeves

65th Governor of Mississippi

f Initiated 1993, Alpha Mu Chapter, Millsaps College

f Member, Irwin Court of Honor

f From 1993 to 1997, Alpha Mu won four George C. Marshall Awards for Chapter Excellence

f Wife, Elee; three daughters, Tyler, Emma, and Maddie

Since 1972, the most federally declared disasters in Mississippi in any one year was four. In Governor Reeves’ first 14 months in office, there were 14. During his tenure, Mississippi faced down historic flooding and tornadoes, a worldwide pandemic, and the failure of the capital city’s water system. Through multiple crises, Governor Reeves brought a steady hand and commonsense-driven leadership to protect the lives and livelihoods of Mississippians.

When elected in 2003 to his first public office, Governor Reeves became the youngest state treasurer in our country. He was elected in 2011 and re-elected four years later as the 32nd Lieutenant Governor, leading the Mississippi Senate. A Rankin County native, Governor Reeves is a graduate of Florence High School and an honors graduate of Millsaps College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.

KA’s values are reverence, gentility, knowledge, leadership, brotherhood, and excellence. Our purpose is to be a moral compass for the modern gentleman. Which of these do you find most important for college students today, and why?

MCMASTER: I believe that all of KA’s values can be included in our goal of excellence. Excellence in all of one’s endeavors must be based on reverence, gentility, knowledge, leadership —as well as morality and kindness. Young men who understand this will achieve success.

REEVES: While all of KA’s values are integral for success, I would encourage students to really focus on their leadership skills and strive for excellence. I often think Ronald Reagan summed it up best when he said: “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does great things. He is the one that gets people to do great things.” It’s important to realize early on that leadership begins with a commitment to bettering yourself and the people around you. Good leaders are those who invest in others and encourage those around them to strive for excellence as well. In order to become an effective leader, you must surround yourself with mentors who are willing to provide you with the guidance needed to grow both personally and professionally. While I was involved in KA, I had the opportunity to surround myself with

mentors and others who helped me refine my leadership skills and who pushed me to strive for excellence. I firmly believe KA helps shape the next generation of leaders through these foundational values.

Do you still stay in touch with your chapter brothers from college? If so, do you gather or connect with them annually?

MCMASTER: My brothers from Rho chapter are still today among my best and most treasured friends. As Province Commander, I also had the honor of knowing other generations of KAs. In all of my social and professional experience since that time, any KA brother receives my greeting and opinion with an automatic reputation of respect, trust and camaraderie. And yes, we stay in touch.

REEVES: Some of my best friends are my chapter brothers from Millsaps. We may not see one another as often as we’d like; however, they each have played an important role in my life. I’m grateful for the friendships, connections, and relationships that my time as a KA has given me. The bonds made during college have proven to still be strong even all these years later.

What kind of leadership or networking ability, or another attribute, did you experience in KA that has helped you in your personal life or professional career?

MCMASTER: When I was a young man, KA confirmed to me the importance of being a gentleman—in thought, word, and deed—as taught to me as a child by my family. As a grown man, I came to fully understand the incomparable value of these lessons. They have made all the difference.

REEVES: All of the KA values have served me well throughout both my personal and professional life. I learned a lot about leadership, but I also learned a great deal about the importance of networking. The relationships we build today help define the individual that we become and our future both professionally and personally.

How do you feel membership in a fraternity or sorority is helpful to students as they graduate today?

MCMASTER: I believe that one’s being in a fraternity or sorority is a unique, invaluable experience. The lessons of leadership, character, and friendship are presented and learned better in no other endeavors. The depth of these lessons is not fully understood and appreciated until one’s college years have passed.

REEVES: Fraternity and sorority memberships are incredibly valuable experiences for students to have. These memberships equip students with important life skills while also providing them with an opportunity to network and build relationships with other students and organizations. Some of my best friendships were made during my time as a KA and many of those friends I can still call on today. The relationships one makes through fraternities and sororities are lifelong and that speaks highly to the value of these institutions.

Explain or relate a tough situation you’ve dealt with while in office?

MCMASTER: Many important decisions face those who enter public service. This is because your decision will affect not only you, but many others who are depending on you, on varying degrees, for their safety,

Bill Lee

50th Governor of Tennessee

f Initiated in 1978, Nu Chapter, Auburn University

f Nephew and Brother both KA alumni

f Wife, Maria; four adult children, Jessica, twin sons Jacob and Caleb, and Sarah Kate, and nine grandchildren

The governor and first lady are people of strong faith. They are active in numerous faith-based ministries, which have taken them all over the world to serve people in need, including to Africa, Haiti, Central America, and the Middle East. His election as governor in 2018 was his first attempt at achieving public office.

After attending Williamson County Schools, Governor Lee attended Auburn University, where he studied Mechanical Engineering. After graduation, he returned home to Franklin to join the family business his grandfather had started in 1944, a comprehensive mechanical construction service company. He became president of Lee Company in 1992. Bill Lee is a seventh-generation Tennessean. He was raised in Franklin, where he still resides today.

prosperity, health, and happiness. My advice: Prepare your mind and knowledge for these decisions. Ask questions of and listen carefully to others who have insight and understanding of these issues. Think deeply and remember that often there is no perfect solution to a challenge. Then, make your decision, letting your moral compass and your own good judgement be your guide.

REEVES: Being the 65th Governor of Mississippi has been the greatest honor of my life. However, it has not been without its challenges. I was sworn into office in January 2020, and I could not have predicted what that first year would hold. In Mississippi, prior to 2020, the most federally declared disasters in any one year was 4. During my first 14 months in office, we had 14 federally declared disasters, and only one of those was COVID.

From hurricanes to tornadoes, floods to ice storms, and even a global pandemic, Mississippi has faced a lot but emerged stronger through it all. Although those circumstances were not ideal, I’m proud that I had the opportunity to help Mississippi navigate each challenge. Throughout my entire career in public service, my goal has always been and will continue to be doing what is in the best interest of every Mississippian. The best leadership skills are often forged through hardship. Much of what I learned about leadership during my time as a KA has helped me tremendously while I have served through the challenges as governor.

What do you feel has been your most proud accomplishment while as a Governor?

MCMASTER: I am happy to be able to play a role in reminding the men, women and children of South Carolina of the greatness of our state, and her people. Our history is magnificent, our future bright. Our

successes are founded on our economic growth, our educational excellence, and our natural and cultural heritage. But it is the strength and goodness of our people which make South Carolina an incomparable place to live, work, and raise a family. Confidence produces progress.

REEVES: Nothing makes me prouder than seeing Mississippi succeed. Despite the challenges, our state has continued to thrive and that’s due in large part to the resiliency of our people and their determination to make our state an even better place.

My goal has always been to make Mississippi the best state in the nation to live, work, learn, and raise a family. One of the areas I’m most proud of, is what we’ve been able to accomplish from an economic development standpoint. In 2022, alone, we’ve seen a record $6 billion in new capital investment which is more than seven times the previous average of approximately $900 million a year before I became Governor. And it helped us to finalize the largest economic development project in Mississippi history—a $2.5 billion capital investment that will create 1,000 new jobs with an average salary of $100,000 a year. Unemployment is at an all-time low in Mississippi, and I’m very proud of that.

I’m also proud of Mississippi teachers and kids. In 2012, Mississippi was dead last in fourth-grade Math. Now, we’re above the national average at Number 23. That means that over the last ten years, since we passed education reform, Mississippi has surpassed half the states in the nation. We’ve gone from needs improvement to most improved. We’ve led the nation in fourth grade reading and math gains. Students from all walks of life are finding more success.

IT’S VITALLY IMPORTANT THAT ANYONE SEEKING A CAREER IN PUBLIC SERVICE PLACE THEMSELVES AMONG OTHER SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE WHO WILL CHALLENGE AND MENTOR THEM IN A WAY THAT WILL HELP FOSTER SUCCESS.

– TATE REEVES

What advice would you give a KA thinking of entering public service, particularly staff positions or even elected office?

MCMASTER: If you are interested in public service, or any other important endeavors, my advice is the same: Be sure you understand the nature of the undertaking, the likely benefits and risks, the time involved, and the impact on your family and loved ones. Don’t enter too early; don’t enter too late. But remember: No time will be perfect, and the only time you know for certain that you have is now.

REEVES: For all those thinking about entering public service, I say go for it. I was in my late 20s when I decided to run for state office

and ended up becoming the youngest state treasurer in the nation at the time. We need more public servants who are ready and willing to help better their communities.

It’s vitally important that anyone seeking a career in public service place themselves among other successful people who will challenge and mentor them in a way that will help foster success. I would also encourage them to be willing to learn from others and be willing to admit when they make a mistake. Mistakes are great learning experiences; they often provide the most formative experiences that will shape our character and capacity for making decisions in the future.

Further, to be a good leader and successful public servant, you cannot be afraid to think outside of the box and step outside your comfort zone. It’s also important to keep a positive attitude. Nothing beats a hard worker with a positive attitude.

Henry McMaster 117th Governor of South Carolina

f Initiated 1967, Rho Chapter, University of South Carolina

f Member, Frampton Court of Honor; Recipient, Knight Commander’s Accolade

f Former Province Commander

f Wife, Peggy; two adult children and two grandchildren

McMaster received a bachelor's degree in history from the University of South Carolina. In 1973, he graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves, receiving an honorable discharge in 1975. McMaster practiced law for more than 40 years. He was the first U.S. attorney appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981. He was elected lieutenant governor in 2014. McMaster was sworn in as governor in January 2017 following then-Governor Nikki Haley’s appointment as United States Ambassador to the United Nations. He was elected to a full term as governor in November 2018 and re-elected in November 2022.

Governor McMaster served on the Palmetto Health Foundation Board and is the recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, the state's highest civilian honor awarded to citizens of South Carolina for extraordinary lifetime service and achievements of national and statewide significance. He was previously named Public Servant of the Year by the Sierra Club and National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Humane Society of the United States.

Timeline and Notes of Past

KA GOVE KA GOVE

1922-1924; 1924-1926; 1926-DEATH

TENNESSEE

MISSOURI Joseph W. Folk (Chi–Vanderbilt 1888)

1917-1921

GEORGIA Hugh Manson Dorsey (Gamma–Georgia 1893)

1924-1927

MISSISSIPPI

Henry Louis Whitfield (Alpha Mu–Millsaps c.1886)

Austin Peay (Omega–Centre c.1894)

• First to die in office in Tennessee

• First to be elected to three terms, after the Civil War

• Only KA Governor with a University named after him: Austin Peay State University, home of the Zeta Tau Chapter

1926-1928

LOUISIANA

Oramel Hinckley Simpson (Psi–Tulane c.1890)

SOUTH CAROLINA Thomas McLeod (Delta–Wofford 1888)

• Ran against two KAs, Martin Sennett Connor (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi 1907), and Percy Bell (Alpha Alpha–Univ. of the South 1914)

GOVE GOVE RNORS RNORS

1927-1931;

1935-1939

ALABAMA

David Bibb Graves (Alpha Beta–Alabama c.1892)

1932-1936

ALABAMA

Frank Murray Dixon (Lambda–Virginia 1913)

ALABAMA

Benjamin Meek Miller (Mu Second–Erksine College 1884)

MISSISSIPPI

Martin Sennett Conner (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi 1907)

1943-1947

GEORGIA

Ellis Arnall, Georgia (Kappa–Mercer 1925)

• Eliminated Georgia’s poll tax, lead Georgia to become first state with voting age at 18

• Later became director of the Office of Price Stabilization in 1952, appointed by President Truman

1952-1956; 1956 -1960

1952-1955

ARKANSAS

Francis A. Cherry (Beta Xi–Oklahoma State 1927)

• The second Arkansas Governor to lose re-election

• According to issues of The Journal, he attended Alpha Omicron’s (Arkansas) Chapter House Dedication, November 15, 1952, and spoke to the Beta Xi Chapter during recruitment (rush) in 1953

DELAWARE

J. Caleb Boggs (Beta Epsilon–Delaware 1928)

• Recipient of the Order’s Award for Distinguished Achievement

• Lost final Senate election to future U.S. President Joe Biden

1971–1975

MISSISSIPPI

Bryant Winfield Culberson Dunn (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi 1948)

• Dentist, health care executive

• Successfully lobbied for kindergarten at public schools across Tennessee

THOUGHTS AND DEEDS

While KA has had 20 total governors, there are interesting points to note between the Order, U.S. history, and general knowledge.

First KA Governor

TEXAS

William P. Clements, Jr. (Beta Lambda–Southern Methodist 1936)

• Deputy Secretary of Defense before his first term as governor

• At the end of his second term in 1991, his eight years in office were the most served by any Texas governor until Rick Perry surpassed his total in 2000

1998-1999

FLORIDA

Kenneth H. “Buddy” MacKay, Jr. (Beta Zeta–Florida 1977)

• KA’s shortest term Governor. Assumed the duties of the governorship upon the death of Gov. Lawton Chiles, and served for twenty-four days before Gov. Jeb Bush was inaugurated

Joseph W. “Holy Joe” Folk (Chi–Vanderbilt 1888) served as Chi Chapter Number IX; initiated with future Journal editor Verner Jones (Chi–Vanderbilt 1888). He served Missouri from 1905 to 1909 and was considered a significant reformer and moral politician. In this sense, he advocated for the “Missouri Idea,” the concept that Missouri should be a leader in public morality through popular control of law and strict enforcement. Among many reforms he accomplished, he had a successful crackdown on child labor.

Two KA Governors Meet; We wonder what they said to one another?

• Gov. Jeb Bush’s son, John E. Bush, Jr. (Omicron–Texas 2003) is an initiate 1999-2003; 2003-2007

WEST VIRGINIA

Earl Ray Tomblin (Alpha Rho–West Virginia 1971)

COLORADO

Bill Owens (Delta Kappa–Stephen F. Austin State 1970)

• The only KA Governor who was a contemporary chapter brother with a future Knight Commander, J. Michael Duncan (Delta Kappa–Stephen F. Austin State 1969)

2010-2011; 20112013; 2013-2017

What did the Governor of Delaware say to the Governor of Arkansas? These two KA governors got together in Washington during a Governor's Conference on April 27, [1954]. Left is Caleb Boggs (Beta Epsilon) of Delaware, shown with Francis Cherry (Beta Xi and Alpha Omicron) of Arkansas. Each of them has figured in the news this year. Brother Cherry lost his bid for reelection by less than 5,000 votes. And Brother Boggs was in the thick of the commotion created by the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to outlaw segregation in the schools. Delaware was a crucial battleground in the effort to integrate. Photo Caption, Kappa Alpha Journal, November 1954, p. 4.

Three KA Governors once before? History Repeats Itself!

Today, as noted on the cover, KA boasts three sitting Governors: Henry D. McMaster, South Carolina (Rho–South Carolina '67); Tate Reeves, Mississippi (Alpha Mu–Millsaps '93); and Bill Lee, Tennessee (Nu–Auburn '78).

In a feat of historical irony, nearly 100 years ago in 1924, KA also had three sitting Governors … in the same three states: in South Carolina—Thomas McLeod (Delta–Wofford 1888), Mississippi—Henry Louis Whitfield (Alpha Mu–Millsaps c.1886), and Tennessee—Austin Peay (Omega–Centre c.1894)

Wait—Five Concurrent KA Governors?

Three Governors is one big feat indeed. But how about five? In addition to McLeod, Whitefield, and Peay, Oramel Hinckley Simpson (Psi–Tulane c.1890) became Governor of Louisiana upon the death of the sitting Governor Henry Fuqua on October 11, 1926, making four KAs as heads of their states. And, when Bibb Graves (Alpha Beta–Alabama c.1892) was inaugurated the first time on January 17, 1926, a KA sat in five Governor’s mansions—10.41% of the then 48 States. This lasted for one day. McLeod’s term ended on January 18.

No one is above the law!

The following is a humorous, minorly salacious comparative to today, Journal reprint of a clipping and commentary from 1923: Editor’s Scrapbook [clippings sent in by members]

Even governors are not exempt. We regret to publish the sad fact that Governor Austin L. Peay, Omega, has been fined for speeding. Small fry take note.

GOVERNOR PEAY CAUGHT SPEEDING

Raleigh, North Carolina, July 11.—A motorcycle patrolman on the lookout for speeders along a Henderson County road bagged two Governors in one haul.

Overtaking the limousine of Governor [Cameron A.] Morrison, who was showing Governor Peay, of Tennessee, some of North Carolina's highways, the officer, to whom high-sounding titles meant nothing, demanded a $10 forfeit.

"Lend me $10," said the Governor of North Carolina to the Governor of Tennessee. "With pleasure," said the Governor of Tennessee to the Governor of North Carolina, and the money was handed over to the officer.—The Sun, Baltimore, 12 July, 1923. Kappa Alpha Journal, November 1923, p. 28.

Only KA Governor to be inducted into a Court of Honor—in his office.

Earl Ray Tomblin (Alpha Rho–West Virginia 1971) has the notation of being the only KA Governor to be inducted into a Court of Honor—in his office. On September 4, 2004, the Hamilton Court of Honor preceptor, Larry Ledsome (Beta Upsilon–Marshall '59), registrar Mike Cobb (Beta Upsilon–Marshall '65), and Bill Wood (Alpha–Washington & Lee '03), grandson

STATE THE FACTS

State with the most KA Governors: with three

of Chief Founder James Ward Wood, inducted Governor Tomblin. After being asked to kneel, he received the provincial cross, and was congratulated by Knight Commander William E. Dreyer (Alpha Delta–William Jewell '57) and Executive Director Larry Stanton Wiese. Your Journal editor was present, along with Stephen Foster (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’60), and Bill Brewer (Alpha Rho–West Virginia '73).

Most KA Points of Engagement

South Carolina’s Henry D. McMaster (Rho–South Carolina '71), even without the political leadership background, is a strong KA leader. He served 14 years as province commander in South Carolina, the longest-serving ever. He is the recipient of the Knight Commander’s Accolade, the highest award for leadership and service in the Order. And he is one of five KA brothers in his family. They include, left to right in the photo from the Spring 1980 Kappa Alpha Journal: Frank Barnwell McMaster (Rho–South Carolina '78), Henry, William Gourdin McMaster (Rho–South Carolina '71), George Hunter McMaster (Rho–South Carolina '69), and Joseph Dargan McMaster (Rho–South

Three Assumed the Governorship

Oramel Hinckley Simpson (Psi–Tulane c. 1890) became Louisiana Governor upon the death of Henry Fuqua on October 11, 1926, Kenneth H. (Buddy) MacKay, Jr. (Beta Zeta–Florida '77), became the Florida Governor upon the death of Lawton Chiles on December 12, 1988, and Earl Ray Tomblin (Alpha Rho–West Virginia '71) became West Virginia’s Governor on November 15, 2010, after then-Governor Joe Manchin was elected to the U.S. Senate. Tomblin subsequently won a special election, and a regular, four-year term election.

13 13

Earliest KA Governor

Number of States with KA Governors

19 19

Number of Chapters with a KA Governor

Richard Allan Barnes was born in Tallahassee, Florida, on August 30, 1940, to Terry and Maude Barnes. Dick’s father, who was from Tennessee, was in manufacturing, and had met his mother before the beginning of World War II. Dick had four brothers and sisters. While still a young child, Barnes and his family moved to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where his father had taken a new job. In Murfreesboro, he attended Crichlow Elementary School and graduated from Central High School. He then entered Middle Tennessee State University where he majored in Education and was greatly influenced by his speech professor, Layne Boutwell. At MTSU, he and twelve friends formed a local fraternity, Phi Epsilon, acquired a house, wrote bylaws, and created a ritual. The fraternity grew, and in 1969, was chartered as the Delta Lambda Chapter. Barnes and his brothers, including H. Lynn Greer, Jr. (Delta Lambda–Middle Tennessee State ’69), a KAOEF Trustee Emeritus, were then initiated. Barnes obtained a master’s degree at Middle Tennessee State majoring in School Administration and taught at a middle school while attending MTSU.

After graduation, Barnes became the President of the Kappa Alpha Alumni Association in Murfreesboro, and during a visit of then–Knight Commander Richard T. Feller, he fell into a conversation that resulted in a job offer from the Order. On April 1, 1970, he joined the administrative staff as a Traveling Chapter Advisor reporting to then–Executive Secretary William E. Forester (Gamma Gamma–Memphis ʹ49). He was responsible for

developing the Kappa Alpha Manual for Pledges into The Varlet, promoting scholarship, and transforming the National Officers’ Training School into the National Leadership Institute.

In 1980, he was promoted to Assistant Executive Director, and in 1985, he was named the Order’s 4th permanent Executive Director, since the position was created by the 37th Convention in 1933. As Executive Director, Barnes received his first assignment from recently elected Knight Commander Idris Traylor—to move the administrative offices from Atlanta, Georgia, where they had been for 31 years, to Lexington,

Virginia. This task involved finding a suitable, if temporary, location for office space; hiring a new staff; and packing up and moving files, archives, memorabilia, and furniture over a long distance—and doing it within five months.

During his time in Atlanta, before moving to Lexington, Barnes had been encouraged by his old friend Tommy Tune to develop an interest in antiques and architectural restoration. Tired of urban surroundings, Barnes purchased three old log cabins in Tennessee, transported them to Roswell, Georgia, joined them together, and created his home. This experience proved to be an inspiration for the transformation of the dilapidated jailhouse into an impressive showplace in the middle of Lexington. In 1992, the restoration was the subject of a laudatory article in Historic Preservation magazine and received an award from the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities for the best preservation project in 1992.

Lee University documentary film, Grain to Gold, the story of Brownsburg’s history and culture, has recently wrapped up production there. Barnes was awarded with the Founders Award by the Historic Lexington Foundation in 2020.

Barnes was a member of several Courts of Honor, a member of the KAOEF Building & Grounds Committee and the KAOEF Crimson & Gold Society, and a recipient of the Knight Commander’s Accolade. He was a recipient of the Fraternity Executives Association (FEA) Distinguished Service Award, and an FEA Honorary Life Member. He passed away on May 9, 2023 in Lexington, at age 82.

For the next five years, the Knight Commander, the Executive Council, and the Executive Director searched for a building with the appropriate attributes for the Order. After a number of delays and changes of plan, at last a suitable location was found—the old Rockbridge County Jail, which had been designed by Thomas U. Walter in 1839. On September 10, 1991, Dick Barnes and the KAOEF Executive Director William E. Garner (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’81) signed the paperwork to purchase the building. Barnes, who had a lifelong interest in preserving and restoring old buildings, played a major role in the building’s renovation.

On November 3, 1995, it was announced that Dick Barnes was retiring. Barnes has kept up his interest and involvement with the Order since that time. He moved to the quaint village of Brownsburg, near Lexington, and while restoring yet another old house slated for demolition, Barnes stored his furniture in an empty storefront. Soon neighbors began inquiring when he was going to open his antiques store and he decided it was a fine idea. Thus, Old South Antiques was born and still thrives. In conjunction with his interest in old buildings and antique furnishings, in 2004, Dick Barnes became involved with his neighbors in establishing the Brownsburg Museum, of which he served for many years as the director. A Washington and

Dick Barnes—A Life of Service

Following Dick’s passing, pursuant to the Regulations, Knight Commander C. Douglas Simmons III declared an official period of mourning for thirty (30) days which concluded on June 7. During that time, members wore a hatchment (black ribbon, ½ inches wide and ¾ inches long) behind their official badge, and the Order’s flag was flown at half-staff at the National Administrative Office.

Kappa Alpha Order

Charter Member, Delta Lambda Chapter National staff, for 25 years

First Director of Chapter Services

Executive Director, 10 years

Director of 15 National Leadership Institutes

Editor of three editions of The Varlet, and its predecessor

Recipient of the Knight Commander’s Accolade from Idris R. Traylor, Jr.

Interfraternal & National 1997 FEA Distinguished Service Award Recipient, honorary life member

Adapted from The Compendium History of Kappa Alpha Order (2018) Interview with Richard A. Barnes, May 11, 2017; Kappa Alpha Journal 113, no. 3 (Fall 1996): 30; Kappa Alpha Journal 114, no. 1 (Winter 1996): 5; Wiese Memo - Passing of Former Executive Director Richard A. Barnes (May 9, 2023).

FEA Liason to the Southeastern Interfraternity Council (1988–1994)

National Vice-President, MDA

Alma Mater & Community Staff Member, Middle Tennessee State University (1965–69)

Middle Tennessee State University Foundation Trustee

Rockbridge Regional Library Foundation Trustee

Historic Paxton House Foundation Trustee

Former President, Brownsburg, Va. Community Association

Chairman, Brownsburg, Va.

Historic Museum Committee

Member of the Board and Worship Committee Chairman, New Providence Presbyterian Church

Owner, Old South Antiques, Brownsburg, Va.

Dick BarnesRemembering

By Larry Stanton Wiese (Gamma Omega–Midwestern State ’87)

In 1989, while I was serving as Number I, I had the opportunity to represent my chapter at the 63rd Convention at the Hyatt Regency Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona. At that Convention I first had the opportunity to meet many of the Order’s current and future leaders. It was there that I also met then-Executive Director Richard A. “Dick” Barnes. While my life and career would intersect with all these men and others, Dick became my first “boss” in the Order.

Dick ultimately hired me twice, first as an Educational and Leadership Consultant, in 1990. Later, he offered me the position of Assistant Executive Director. After struggling with the offer, I ultimately turned it down to pursue law school. I thought that was my last chance to work for KA.

As I was completing law school, Dick called again and offered me the chance to serve as the Assistant Executive Director. I packed up and headed back to Lexington. I started my second job at KA, reporting to Dick, on July 1, 1995. These events were the genesis of my career with KA, for which I am very grateful.

The Convention later that year was tumultuous with five members of the Executive Council not re-elected, and others elected who would become Knight Commander. At that same Convention, Dick was recognized for 25 years of service on staff including ten years as Executive Director. In October 1995, perhaps realizing that it was a good time for a changing of the guard, Dick told then-Knight Commander Thomas Paulson he would retire effective in November. I was among the first five KA’s Dick told, and I recall that conversation while standing at a pay phone at baggage claim at Love Field in Dallas. Dick was happy for me when I was named as his successor. I visited him and spoke with him by phone as often as time permitted. He asked how the Order was doing, about new chapters, and recruitment. He was always interested in the Order’s continuing success.

Dick devoted his career to KA. He would tell you himself that he wasn’t perfect, and in this role, you are required to make decisions that can make others unhappy or even angry. He set an example for professionalism in the office, and he exhibited a strong work ethic. He made a significant and positive impact on the Order—23,491 men were initiated during his tenure as Executive Director, and 18 new chapters were chartered. After he retired, he was always available to me for advice and KA history discussions as needed. I was still asking about an issue as recently as March.

Any time one of his old KA friends visited Lexington, I helped arrange visits with him and tagged along. When Dick fell ill, he lost the use of his legs and was confined to a wheelchair or bed. Yet, many of his friends never even knew that. Whenever he received a call, he was as usual, always

upbeat, positive and optimistic. While ill, he still “visited” chapters, virtually. He may be the only person to visit each of the Order’s chapter websites.

Dick was dedicated to his family and friends and collected many of the latter over the years. Alumni on almost every visit I make still ask me about Dick, including a current member of Congress. Rep. Steve Womack, the chartering Number I of Epsilon Zeta Chapter, recently shared with me, “Dick Barnes wasn’t just a KA brother. He was KA to most of us at the Epsilon Zeta Chapter. His passion for the Order and patience with a new chapter at Arkansas Tech University was remarkable. His steady mentorship made the difference. No one better understood the life-changing opportunities Kappa Alpha Order would have on its members. We are grateful for his leadership and example and sad with his passing.”

On a personal level, Dick was always kind, positive, warm and funny. To the end, he was proud of KA and proud that it was holding to its values in this challenging world. He was a brother faithful unto death. Most importantly, to me, he was a mentor and friend. He will be missed.

"He set an example for professionalism in the office, and he exhibited a strong work ethic. He made a significant and positive impact on the Order..."

After Thomas’ Death

A personal take on the national fentanyl crisis

The Mayo Family works to find a better way to change the conversation

By J. Cal Mayo

(Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’83)

Shortly after noon on Thursday, April 14, 2022, a classic spring day in Oxford, Mississippi, I visited with David Krouse, my good friend and Ole Miss Kappa Alpha pledge brother, at a favorite lunch spot just off the Square. We reminisced about the beautiful previous weekend in Seaside, Florida, where David and his wife celebrated the marriage of my oldest son, William. While at the wedding, my oldest daughter Virginia delivered my first grandchild, Hayes, in Atlanta. The recent engagement of daughter Callie and the celebration of son Thomas’ 21st birthday only added to the wedding weekend’s festive atmosphere.

A buzz from my cell phone interrupted our conversation.

Caroline, my wife, was calling from Atlanta where she was happily experiencing her first few “grandmother” days with Hayes. “Something is wrong with Thomas,” she stated hurriedly. “You need to get to his condo.”

Last Night

The night before around 6:30, about the time he received a text from his mother with a photo of his new nephew and namesake (“Hayes” was Thomas’ middle name), Thomas and two friends crushed and snorted a couple of Percocet bought off the street. They met their dates at a bar and went to a party at the Sigma Chi house, where Thomas was a member. Later, the three boys contacted the dealer and bought two more Percocet, which they divided and consumed.

Thomas and a group left the frat house for his condo around 10:30. After a few more hours of “late night”, Thomas went to bed. He never woke up.

Early on the morning of Thursday, April 14, 2022, as I struggled to catch my breath during my morning workout, Thomas unconsciously took his last breath as the fentanyl from the fake “Percocet” shut down his respiratory system and killed him. Thomas unwittingly became the

PROTECTING AGAINST OVERDOSE

the fentanyl crisis continues to expand, we must all learn to spot and deal with a potential overdose.

OVERDOSE SIGNS

• Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”

• Falling asleep or losing consciousness

• Slow, weak, or no breathing

• Choking or gurgling sounds

• Limp body

• Cold and/or clammy skin

• Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails)

ACTION PLAN FOR SUSPECTED OVERDOSE

• Call 911 immediately

Less than five minutes later, an Oxford police officer stopped me at the front door of Thomas’ off campus residence. “Your son is dead,” he told me.

What?

Wait a minute! What? Dead? My son is “dead?” What do you mean, “dead?”

Just the previous afternoon, Thomas and I worked on his resume as he applied for a summer job in Washington, D.C. He was healthy, 21, in the prime of his life. A beautiful girlfriend for whom he cared deeply. Tons of friends. A good student, he was set to graduate in a year. Thomas and I had recently discussed the possibility of law school in his future. The world sat in the palm of his hand. How could he possibly have died?

latest statistic in our country’s growing fentanyl crisis.

Fentanyl Facts

Pharmaceutical fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approved for use as an analgesic and anesthetic. Fentanyl is roughly 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Used properly, fentanyl provides pain relief to patients with terminal cancer and better operative outcomes for patients during minor surgical procedures.

Illegal fentanyl is dramatically changing the recreational drug landscape in America. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration describes fentanyl as the “single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered.” Fentanyl claims one life

• Administer Naloxone (Narcan), if available

• Try to keep person awake and breathing

• Lay person on side to prevent choking

• Stay with person until emergency assistance arrives

Fentanyl, the fastest growing killer of Americans in the 14-23 age group, leads to more American youth deaths than heroin, meth, cocaine, benzos, and prescription drugs combined.

As

every 8.5 minutes. Six out of ten fake prescription pills seized by the DEA contain deadly doses of fentanyl. Fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under age 50 than any other cause of death, including heart disease, cancer, homicide, suicide, and other accidents. Fentanyl, the fastest growing killer of Americans in the 14-23 age group, leads to more American youth deaths than heroin, meth, cocaine, benzos, and prescription drugs combined.

During the 12 months ending in January 2022, over 107,000 people died of drug overdoses and drug poisonings. More than two-thirds of those deaths involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Sometimes fentanyl is found in pressed fake prescription pills, like Percocet, Adderall, or Xanax, or illegal pills like Ecstasy. Sometimes fentanyl is cut into cocaine. Sometimes fentanyl is sprayed on weed. Two milligrams (a few grains on the tip of a pencil) can be lethal.

Common street names for illicit fentanyl include Apache, China Girl, China Town, Dance Fever, Friend, Goodfellas, Great Bear, He-Man, Jackpot, King Ivory, Murder 8, and Tango & Cash. Users can inject, snort/sniff, smoke, and swallow fentanyl in various forms. Legal fentanyl patches are cut open to remove the contents or frozen, cut into pieces, and placed under the tongue or in the cheek cavity. Fentanyl produces relaxation, euphoria, pain relief, sedation, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, pupillary constriction, and respiratory depression. Fentanyl is cheaper to manufacture than other opioids and highly addictive, making it easier to smuggle in small powerful quantities.

Most states have legalized and are making test strips readily available. The test strips certainly help in preventing overdoses. However, the test strips will only detect fentanyl in the tested portion of the pill, powder, or weed. A negative result does not necessarily “clear” the remaining untested product. The illegal labs used to press

As a case in point, Thomas’ two friends fortunately survived ingesting the fake “Percocet” without any noticeable adverse effects from the fentanyl. Only Thomas ingested a lethal dose.

Fentanyl is a game changer. Fentanyl does not discriminate between the three groups. Whether a first-time experimental cocaine user or a hard-core Xanax abuser with addiction problems, a dose of fentanyl can lead to the same result . . . death.

the fake pills cannot and do not attempt to uniformly distribute the fentanyl. As a case in point, Thomas’ two friends fortunately survived ingesting the fake “Percocet” without any noticeable adverse effects from the fentanyl. Only Thomas ingested a lethal dose.

A New World on College Campuses

College offers students the chance to experiment, ask questions, and push their limits as they discover themselves and chart their paths. For many students, this includes experimenting with alcohol, drugs, and weed, if they have not started before arriving on campus. College drug users fall into three broad groups: infrequent recreational users, frequent abusers, and users with addiction tendencies. Historically, the final group has faced the most serious, long-term impact from repeated exposure to drugs and alcohol.

Fentanyl is a game changer. Fentanyl does not discriminate between the three groups. Whether a first-time experimental cocaine user or a hard-core Xanax abuser with addiction problems, a dose of fentanyl can lead to the same result . . . death.

Addressing the problem

Following the tragic death of their son from an accidental drug overdose, David and Kent Magee led the creation and opening of the William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing at the University of Mississippi in 2019. The Institute transforms lives and communities by supporting students at all levels as they develop resiliency and maximize their potential through holistic wellbeing. In short, the Magee Institute recognizes that students of all ages deal with mental health issues of varying types and degrees, seeks to shine a light on this reality, and works to develop programs and resources to assist and empower students.

Donate and learn more at The Mayo Lab

William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing at the University of Mississippi

www.themayolab.com

An alarming share of them struggle with mental health concerns, ranging from depression and anxiety to eating disorders and substance addictions. Amid this chaos, the pressing questions of our time remain deceptively simple ones.

How do we talk to our kids?

How do we help them?

We’re working to answer these questions, transforming and saving lives in the process.

After Thomas’ death, Caroline and I selected the Magee Center as a recipient of memorials. We were overwhelmed by the response and worked with David Magee and others at the Magee Institute to create the Thomas Hayes Mayo Lab (themayolab.com) in the fall of 2022. Focused on changing the conversation around student mental health and substance misuse, the Mayo Lab dropped its first eight podcast episodes this spring. The Lab is currently developing age-appropriate educational curricula for use at all levels from grade school to college.

Caroline and I cannot bring Thomas back to life. But we will use his story to help others avoid the mistake he made and to stem the misguided effort to find happiness through the misuse of drugs and alcohol. There is a better way.

The Thomas Hayes Mayo Lab is named for a beloved Ole Miss student who died at 21 of fentanyl poisoning. Our team is sensitive to the heartbreaking dimension of this crisis —and the urgent need for help.

Through innovative programming, including peer-to-peer Happiness Teams and a podcast that combines groundbreaking research with engaging discussions, The Mayo Lab equips parents, educators and students to start conversations that transform and save lives. Our team is also developing a school program to educate middle and high schoolers as well as their teachers and families about how to build healthy habits, communicate concerns and cultivate joy that lasts.

Previous: Mayo family wedding, Thomas on left. Above: Thomas' funeral program. Right: Thomas' memorial brick.

MODERN GENTLEMEN

Support for The Independence Fund tops

$1 Million Chapters Donate Six All-Terrain Track Wheelchairs to Wounded Veterans in 2022

HIGH POINT–ZETA PHI

Throughout 2022, seven KA chapters worked to raise funds for The Independence Fund for the purchasing and outfitting of all-terrain track wheelchairs for catastrophically wounded veterans. Through fundraising events and soliciting donations, sixteen KA chapters have worked together or individually to raise the $16,000 to $20,000 to donate a track chair. At the end of 2022, more than twenty-four chairs have been donated to veterans in need, and the Order has raised more than $1,000,000 for The Independence Fund to improve the lives of veterans.

November 11, 2022, during High Point University’s 12th annual Veterans Day Celebration, which welcomed more than 1,500 veterans and their families to campus. Presented to retired U.S. Army combat engineer Stephen Smerek and to retired U.S. Army engineer Kris Lindsay, not in attendance due to a recent surgery.

WESTMINSTER–ALPHA ETA

October 22, 2022, during halftime of the Westminster College Second Annual Military Appreciation Day home football game against the University of Northwestern, St. Paul Presented to retired U.S. Army SPC Eric Jordan.

HIGH POINT–ZETA PHI

November 12, 2022, during halftime of the HampdenSydney College home football game against Randolph Macon College. Presented to retired U.S. Navy veteran Heather Miner.

November 19, 2022, during halftime of the James Madison University’s Military Appreciation home football game against Georgia State University

Presented to retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Randall Pope

November 19, 2022, during halftime of the McNeese State University home football game against Lamar University

Presented to retired U.S. Marine Todd M. Croft.

In 2016, the Zeta Phi Chapter partnered with The Independence Fund and began a student-led initiative aimed at raising money to provide all-terrain track wheelchairs for wounded veterans. To date, the Zeta Phi Chapter has donated a total of eight chairs. Over time, their initiative has spread to other chapters in the Order, and its members continue to provide leadership, support, and best fundraising practices.

HAMPDEN-SYDNEY–ALPHA TAU AND RANDOLPH-MACON–ZETA

JAMES MADISON–ZETA THETA

MCNEESE STATE–DELTA XI

Inaugural First Amendment Institute

hosted by the Fraternity & Sorority Action Fund

From September 30 to October 2, student leaders from across the country gathered to learn how to advocate for freedom of association on their campuses. They heard from fraternity and sorority industry experts, legal and advocacy experts, and campus professionals, and learned skills they can take home to protect their sorority or fraternity experience. Former National Undergraduate Chairman Jake Netterville (Alpha Gamma–Louisiana State ’19) had this to say about his experience:

“What I found most helpful specifically was the national polling statistics that we went over with Brad Todd, of Onmessage media group, who walked us through the different perceptions people have of Greek life. He helped us take a step back and see ourselves from an outside perspective. This new insight helped us understand how to better our reputation, promote our groups, and share the value of our groups in more efficient ways.

My biggest takeaway overall from the event was simply the better understanding of what our rights are. Our freedom of speech and freedom of assembly did not seem black and white to me until I learned the full scope of our rights.

We went over case after case of higher education targeting Greek life and directly infringing on those basic rights. Before this event, I was naive to the struggle currently playing out across the country.

The institute prepared me to better defend my groups from outside attacks. I learned that we have rights that can supersede even the interest of our colleges and universities and that gives us an ability to stand strongly when challenged.”

Above (Left to Right)

Evan Hanna, Director of Chapter Operations

Aaron McKeever (Epsilon Nu–Georgia College ’19)

Jake Netterville (Alpha Gamma–Louisiana State ’19)

Lyle Johnston (Epsilon Nu–Georgia College ’19)

Nathan Wingfield (Alpha Omicron–Arkansas ’20)

Alex Barney (Lambda–Virginia ’20)

Larry Stanton Wiese, Executive Director

Kay Honored by Westminster and Chapter

During the Westminster College Alumni Weekend April 14–15, 2023, Donald P. Lofe, Jr., President of Westminster College honored Former Knight Commander Darren S. Kay (Alpha Eta–Westminster ’88) with the Alumni Achievement Award. Kay and five other Westminster College graduates were recognized for their personal and professional achievements that contribute to society and reflect the Westminster mission.

Later that day, the Alpha Eta Chapter inducted Kay into the newly created Alpha Eta Chapter Hall of Fame. Kay joins George E. Keithley ’90, first Number I of Alpha Eta Chapter, and Franc L. “Bullet” McCluer ’14, President of Westminster College from 1933 to 1947, in the inaugural class.

Knight Commander Kay in front of the Alpha Eta chapter house with current Number I Jason Reilly ’20, left, and former Number I Enrique Fuentes ’19, right.

MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE–DELTA LAMBDA

The brothers of Delta Lambda Chapter at Middle Tennessee State won 1st place in Alpha Omicron Pi’s All Sing Competition for Crowd Favorite. They raised more money for AOII’s philanthropy than all the other sororities and fraternities. The entire event raised more than $12,000 for the local philanthropy, Special Kids of Murfreesboro.

$120,000 RAISED IN MEMORY OF MOTHER AND NASHVILLE SHOOTING VICTIM

After hearing of the tragic shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee, which took the life of Cindy Peak, mother of Matthew C. Peak (Nu–Auburn ’ 21), the Nu Chapter at Auburn University came together to support their chapter brother in the darkest of times.

The chapter began to hold prayer meetings each morning the week of and following the tragedy.

“Dozens of people showed up in support and not just KA brothers,” Thomas Whatley (Nu–Auburn ’ 20) said. “Our chaplains organized and led the prayer meetings because of the Peak family’s strong faith and our chapter members are strong believers in prayer.”

Thomas approached Number I Logan Brewer about another way to support their chapter brother. Working in coordination with Number VI, Andrew Rawson (Nu–Auburn ’ 20), Thomas created a GoFundMe page for the chapter with the goal of raising $25,000 for the Peak family to support the funeral costs.

“Matthew is a very active brother,” said Whatley. “He is on the New Member Education Committee and attends all the Bible studies.”

“ She was full of kindness, joy, love, and a passion to serve others,” The GoFundMe page read. “She was a woman of strong faith, a leader in her community, and she was an even better mother. Everyone should strive to treat others the way she did and celebrate her powerful impact on this world.”

Word spread about the fundraiser and local connection to the chapter’s efforts. Their goal was exceeded, raising more than $120,000 for the Peak family to help honor Cindy Peak’s legacy.

“ She was full of kindness, joy, love, and a passion to serve others...”

GULF COAST–ZETA PI

Cabrera Directs Hurricane Relief

When Hurricane Ian struck the western coast of Florida in late September, 2022, its aftermath required the rescue and cleanup efforts, still ongoing, of countless friends, neighbors, and volunteers in the Sunshine State. Answering the call was Erian Cabrera (Zeta Pi–Florida Gulf Coast ’19), a corporate communications intern at U.S. Sugar in Clewiston, about 80 miles east of much of the catastrophic damage the storm left in its wake.

A former Zeta Pi Number I and Number IV, Cabrera was tapped as a lead coordinator for much of U.S. Sugar’s relief work following Hurricane Ian, directing projects to help provide residents of the affected areas with food and other much-needed supplies. Cabrera had already been involved in the agriculture giant’s efforts to serve the needy in the Fort Myers area. The arrival of the hurricane only accelerated the scope and urgency of his work.

“We try to do one to two produce deliveries per month locally on the west coast as far as soup kitchens, charity banks and such,” he said. “But with the hurricane coming

through, it gave us the opportunity to do a real large-scale delivery. A lot of these drop-off sites were located in areas that were hit very hard. Fort Myers got hit pretty hard with the hurricane; that’s where the university is. We reached out to big donation centers, relief centers, drop-off centers that we had done business with in the past, or that were actively giving out, that had pretty much set up shop in the area. So we took advantage of that opportunity to deliver our product to those places.”

Cabrera’s KA affiliation was what led to his internship with U.S. Sugar in the first place. “KA is really the reason I’m at U.S. Sugar,” he said. “I was sitting with my faculty advisor [Tony Lee, (Zeta Pi–Florida Gulf Coast ’17)] and he asked me how my previous job was going, and I told him it wasn’t what I saw myself doing after graduation. And he asked me, ‘Well, what do you want to do?’ And I told him, ‘Tony, I want to give back, that’s where my passion is.’ So Tony connected me with his contact at U.S. Sugar.”

That contact was Ryan Duffy, U.S. Sugar’s director of corporate communications, who brought Cabrera on

FLORIDA

board as an intern in August, just in time to learn the ropes of the company’s charitable efforts in Fort Myers before the arrival of Hurricane Ian.

“Erian was highly recommended to me [by Lee],” Duffy said. “U.S. Sugar

ground to get the food out and distributed, and he did it all in his capacity as our intern. He’s been a tremendous asset to U.S. Sugar and our department.”

Cabrera is a native of Alva, Florida, nearly equidistant from his classes at

sort of farms the land right up to Fort Myers. We weren’t as impacted by Hurricane Ian, we didn’t have the damage they had over on the coast. Erian helped us coordinate our response to what happened over there, he helped us coordinate getting trucks and front-end loaders and tractors over there to help clear the FGCU campus. He was also very helpful in getting food distributed; we donated fresh produce to some of the people in Fort Myers who were impacted by Ian, and they were coming to these distribution centers for everything from flashlights to tarps and supplies. Erian was in charge with the boots on the

FGCU and the U.S. Sugar offices in Clewiston, though he works mostly remotely. A marketing major with an agriculture business minor, he is modest about his role as what Duffy called the “lead coordinator” of the relief efforts. “I don’t like to take credit for being fully in charge,” Cabrera said. “We do have some partners that we work with, as far as team involvement. As far as logistics and everything else, I was highly involved there.”

Without the life skills and leadership qualities instilled in him as a KA brother, Cabrera said that he wouldn’t have been nearly as effective in his role with U.S. Sugar. “As involved as I’ve been with our executive board,” he said, “I’ve seen the ins and outs of what it is to basically run a group of individuals, what goes into properly planning and organizing an event. Not just how to do my job well, but how to communicate with others, and how to portray yourself to people you meet for the first time. It goes back to the things KA does as far as our ongoing philanthropic efforts, back to what it means to help your own community in any way possible, whenever you can, however you can with whatever resources you have available. It’s what we try to teach as a chapter, how important it is to be involved and help others.”

Without the life skills and leadership qualities instilled in him as a KA brother, Cabrera said that he wouldn’t have been nearly as effective in his role with U.S. Sugar.

CHAPTER CENTENNIAL THREE YEARS IN THE MAKING

The Beta Xi Chapter at Oklahoma State University celebrated its centennial throughout the weekend of May 6, 2023. Although the chapter was founded on May 18, 1920, the anniversary was postponed because of COVID-19. More than one hundred brothers were in attendance over the weekend that included a reception on Friday, a lunch at the chapter house on Saturday afternoon, and a centennial Banquet at the University’s Student Union.

The program of the Centennial Banquet featured a welcome from OSU Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs Casey F. Domnick (Beta Xi–Oklahoma State ’07), an invocation by Number V Kevin S. Rapacki

(Beta Xi–Oklahoma State ’ 22), a Chapter update from Number I William L. Britton (Beta Xi–Oklahoma State ’ 21), Remarks from former Executive Councilor Sam O. Leake, Jr. (Beta Xi–Oklahoma State ’61), and a State of the Order from Senior Councilor King V. Aiken, Jr. (Kappa–Mercer ’83).

“For many of our alumni, it was their first time reuniting since being active brothers, Number II Spencer Roach (Beta Xi–Oklahoma State ’ 21) commented. “It was a great weekend that nurtured our chapter’s alumni relations to a level that has not been reached by us in a long time.”

OKLAHOMA STATE–BETA XI

Schmuck Inducted into High School Hall of Fame

Dr. James M. "Jim" Schmuck (Alpha Eta–Westminster ’69) was recently inducted into the Parkway South High School Hall of Fame, the school where he served as an English teacher and track coach. The ceremony took place on the track where he spent countless hours coaching young people through to success, both on the track and in life.

Resurrection at Rhodes College

The Alpha Epsilon Chapter at Rhodes College was successfully placed in good standing on April 23, 2023, after a year of suspension. This reinstatement process started in September 2022, with a joint effort facilitated

through the National Administrative Office and the Alpha Epsilon Housing Corporation. Thanks to the hard work and planning of alumni Michael R. Frick (Alpha Epsilon–Rhodes ’77), Robert G. L. “Bobby” Eason (Alpha Epsilon–Rhodes ’80), Howard E. “Buddy” Cater (Alpha Epsilon–Rhodes ’89), R. Renn Eason (Alpha Epsilon–Rhodes ’14), and Livingston P. Brien (Alpha Epsilon–Rhodes ’83), KA was able to host four recruitment-oriented events prior to the spring semester with the mission of rebuilding the KA brand on campus and cultivating interest in re-establishing the historic chapter. The alumni also dedicated funds to provide scholarships to each member. During the Spring semester the national staff were able successfully to recruit 16 men to start the rebuilding process. These men immediately created an impact within the Rhodes Greek community and have continued to excel as leaders among the other five fraternities on campus.

RHODES–ALPHA EPSILON

ALUMNUS PUBLISHES DEBUT BOOK HONORING HIS AUTISTIC

SONS

Merrill C. Wautlet, Jr. (Alpha Iota–Centenary '78), just celebrated the publishing of his first book entitled "The Rat."

A profoundly autistic boy is kidnapped for no apparent reason. Years later, that same boy, now a highly trained operative for a covert government agency, sees something while on assignment that triggers a memory of his mother and his home.

Without the benefit of being able to communicate verbally, he begins a perilous journey where he must navigate more than nine hundred miles of terrain while avoiding capture.

A native of New Orleans, Merrill now resides in Shreveport and is a career finance professional in the banking industry. Prior to entering that profession, he spent two years as a teacher and a coach. He also has served on multiple community non-profit boards. He is the proud father of two adult sons, M.C. and Andrew, both of whom have autism.

Merrill previously served as the Alpha Iota Chapter Alumnus Advisor, has been inducted into the White Province Court of Honor, is a member of the Loyal Order, and was a member of the KAOEF's Crimson & Gold Society in 2018.

Purchase "The Rat" by Merrill Wautlet on Amazon.com or wherever good books are sold.

WESTERN CAROLINA–DELTA ALPHA

Johnson

Selected for College Football Hall of Fame

Former Georgia Tech and Navy head coach Paul Johnson (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina '77) has been selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2023. Johnson and the Class of 2023, which includes 18 First-Team All-American players and three other standout coaches, will be officially inducted on December 5 at the 65th National Football Foundation Annual Awards Dinner in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Capitalizing on his patented spread option offense—one of the most innovative offensive schemes in all of college football—Johnson took three programs to the top of their respective conferences and the national rankings, winning two national titles and five conference championships and making 18 bowl appearances.

Johnson’s 22-year career as a head coach included stints at Georgia Southern (1997–2001), the U.S. Naval Academy (2002–2007), and Georgia Tech (2007–2018).

QUARTERS

Remembering theReason Joining KA on Johnson Street

Sixty+ Years Of KA & Gamma Phi Brotherhood

On August 14, 2022, six KAs, each one particularly involved in the early leadership of Gamma Phi Chapter at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette, gathered at Bowling Green Hunting Club outside of Woodville, Mississippi, to share good food, fine wine, and fond memories of their college days together more than 60 years prior. It was a unique experience to spend three days together in an isolated environment with no distractions other than each other.

It was a fun and relaxing time to be with a group of brothers who all lived together in the original fraternity house at 1109 Johnson Street, Lafayette, Louisiana. That chapter house was originally the home of

Alpha Sigma Kappa, our local fraternity, and then the first home of Gamma Phi Chapter. The house was the headquarters and home for establishing KA in Lafayette.

There were many stories (most of them fairly accurate, but all very nostalgic) about those early days when one of the main objectives was to establish a favorable image of the newest national fraternity on our campus, Gamma Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Order. The six of us gathered were so thankful for our long lives and the ability to still get together. Importantly also, we were thankful for KA in creating the common bond of brotherhood that has remained over the decades.

Early leaders of Gamma Phi attending were:

Ron Phillips

(Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette ʹ60), a retired banker, CPA & CFO, our host and first President of Alpha Sigma Kappa in 1959/60. Ron organized the petition to become a chapter of the Order.

Fred Aultman

(Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette ʹ60), a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, and Gamma Phi’s second Number I, following the late Bruce Arceneaux the first Number I in 1960;

Dick Domico

(Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette ʹ60), a successful New Orleans–area Realtor;

Ken Ardoin

(Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette ʹ60), who retired as an executive from Pfizer after 42 years;

Corky Perret

(Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette 60), a Marine Biologist who retired as Deputy Director of Mississippi Department of Marine Resources;

Max Merrick (Gamma Phi–Louisiana-Lafayette 60), retired owner of Merrick Construction Co.

OUR ORDER

Mark C. Shuford

Alpha–Washington & Lee '79

was created to recognize excellence in leadership and service to the Order. It's the highest

CONFERRED: April 13, 2023, by Knight Commander C. Douglas Simmons III at an alumni reception during a meeting of the 42nd Executive Council at the National Administrative Office at Mulberry Hill in Lexington, Virginia.

10-year-old and by following in his father’s footsteps, graduating from both Washington & Lee University and Washington & Lee University School of Law. As a freshman, Mark pledged the Alpha Chapter in 1978 and was initiated in 1979.

After graduation, Mark spent a fouryear stint in Louisville, Kentucky, as a litigator. He returned to Richmond to practice law in 1990. Upon his return to Virginia, Mark was invited to join the Alpha Chapter House Corporation Board by Former Knight Commander Henry J. Foresman. Since Alpha Chapter’s return to campus in 1996, Mark has served as Alpha Chapter’s House Corporation president.

In 2003, Mark was inducted into the Samuel Zenas Ammen Province Court of Honor. His uncle and both cousins are KAs from the University of Kentucky (Theta) and Transylvania University (Alpha Theta). Mark lives in Richmond with his wife, Laura, where he continues to practice law as Managing Partner of Shuford Law Group. He is a member of St. James’s Episcopal Church and has served as a vestryman, Senior Warden, and a 22-year member of the choir.

Courts of Honor

The Order’s system of Provincial Courts of Honor is unique in the system of American college fraternities. It was first introduced at the fifth province council, in 1930, by Frank Hammett Myers, Commander of the James Ward Wood Province. For insignia, each Court uses its own Provincial Cross with its own distinct colors. The purpose of the Courts of Honor is to recognize and acknowledge alumni for their continued interest, support, and participation in the Order, its active or alumni chapters, and their capacity to stimulate the expansion and prestige of the fraternity. A Court of Honor typically holds an annual meeting and dinner or event to nominate new members and make plans for the events of the upcoming year. A new inductee is presented with Court of Honor jewel along with a certificate of membership.

Ammen

March 18, 2023, at the Country Club of Virginia in Richmond, Va.

ƒ Richard Lester Burke, Jr. (Zeta–RandolphMacon ’83)

ƒ Shane Stafford Clarke (Beta Rho–Roanoke ’14)

ƒ Michael Gerard Comeau (Zeta–Randolph-Macon ’75)

ƒ William Edward Confroy, Jr. (Eta–Richmond ’84)

ƒ J. Donald Etz (Zeta–Randolph-Macon ’77)

ƒ James Russell Foster (Alpha Tau–HampdenSydney ’05)

ƒ Peter Joseph Foster (Beta Rho–Roanoke ’94)

ƒ Patrick M. Gee (Alpha Tau–Hampden-Sydney ’03)

ƒ Aaron D. Masey (Epsilon Eta–Virginia Tech ’17)

ƒ Alexander Nesterczuk (Epsilon Eta–Virginia Tech ’15)

ƒ Ryan Ferguson Schilling (Alpha Tau–Hampden-Sydney ’03)

Ammen

Candler

April 22, 2023, at Malone’s Lansdowne in Lexington, Ky.

ƒ Christopher M. Castle (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’99)

ƒ Evan Michael Hanna (Epsilon Zeta–Arkansas Tech ’17)

ƒ Keith Boley (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’91)

ƒ Lee G. Martin (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’71)

ƒ Ryan Michael Tyson (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’99)

ƒ Scott W. Dillman (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’80)

ƒ Todd A. Murphy (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’84)

Chiles

January 20, 2023, at the Alpha Eta Chapter and Alpha Kappa Chapter joint Convivium in Columbia, Mo.

ƒ Terrill Lee "Terry" Lister (Alpha Kappa–Missouri '68)

ƒ Thomas W. O'Neal (Beta Theta–Washington '61)

Saturday, January 29, 2023, at the Joplin Area Alumni Chapter Convivium, Joplin, Mo.

ƒ Daniel P. Day (Delta Pi–Missouri Southern State '14)

Duncan

February 26, 2023, at the Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas, Texas (inaugural event)

ƒ Christopher M. Castle (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’99)

ƒ Chris Duncan (Gamma Chi–Texas Tech ’99)

ƒ Jay Douglas Fine (Gamma Tau–Sam Houston State ’94)

ƒ Eddie Jones (Delta Kappa–Stephen F. Austin State ’78)

ƒ Darren S. Kay (Alpha Eta–Westminster ’88)

ƒ Robert J. McAndrews (Gamma Tau–Sam Houston State ’85)

ƒ Matthew D. O’Neal (Gamma Alpha–Louisiana Tech ’06)

ƒ E. Preston Pritchett III (Nu–Auburn ’10)

ƒ Chris R. Sawyer (Delta Sigma–Houston Baptist ’75)

ƒ Charles T. Sylvester (Gamma Omega–Midwestern State ’74)

ƒ James H. Thompson, Jr. (Delta Kappa–Stephen F. Austin State ’72)

ƒ Hadly Weaver (Gamma Chi–Texas Tech ’92)

Duncan

Day

O'Neal

Lister

Frampton

March 30, 2023, in the Congaree Room of the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, S.C.

ƒ Lindsay N. Bickerstaff III (Beta Pi–Presbyterian ’87)

ƒ G. Flynn Bowie, Jr. (Rho–South Carolina ’86)

ƒ Joseph Aloysius Coates, IV (Delta Tau–Francis Marion ’98)

ƒ Richard Lofton Cox III (Delta–Wofford ’05)

ƒ William Blake Duke (Theta Commission–Citadel ’17)

ƒ A. Tim Hinson (Delta Omicron–Clemson ’73)

ƒ C. Grandison Howard III (Beta Pi–Presbyterian ’14)

ƒ F. Schipman Johnston (Rho–South Carolina ’83)

ƒ Thomas A. Limehouse (Rho–South Carolina ’06)

ƒ Zebulon Lee Reid (Delta Epsilon–Newberry ’99)

ƒ John Baylis Ross, Jr. (Delta Omicron–Clemson ’01)

ƒ Triz Van Smith (Theta Commission–Citadel ’17)

Hamilton

August 27, 2022, near campus of West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, W.V.

ƒ Stephen A. Gold (Beta Upsilon–Marshall ’67)

ƒ James R. Milam, II (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’92)

ƒ Colton L. Moor (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’17)

ƒ Clifford J. Rylands, III (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’71)

ƒ Frank E. Williams, III (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’66)

ƒ John S. Wilson, Jr. (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’90)

Hardeman

October 1, 2022, at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta, Ga.

ƒ Adolph Casal (Epsilon–Emory ’84)

ƒ Thomas E. Cauthorn (Kappa–Mercer ’67)

ƒ James E. Elliot, Jr. (Alpha Sigma–Georgia Tech ’76)

ƒ Charles R. Haley (Alpha Sigma–Georgia Tech ’81)

ƒ William T. Moore, Jr. (Gamma–Georgia ’61)

*not pictured

April 15, 2023, at the Idle Hour Golf & Country Club in Macon, Ga.

ƒ Scott E. Buchanan (Theta Commission–Citadel ’12)

ƒ Jamey L. Cartee (Delta Theta–Georgia Southern ’87)

ƒ Joseph E. Goodroe III (Delta Theta–Georgia Southern ’83)

ƒ Evan R. Karanovich (Epsilon Nu–Georgia College ’11)

ƒ Dr. Bob Baker Mann, Jr. (Epsilon–Emory ’72)

ƒ William E. Robinson III (Gamma–Georgia ’62)

ƒ Leon C. Watson (Delta Theta–Georgia Southern ’71)

Hardeman

Frampton

Provisional Chapter Established

Irwin November 17, 2022, Fairview Inn, Jackson, Miss.

ƒ Wilburn Eugene Ainsworth, Jr. (Alpha Mu–Millsaps ’61)

ƒ Russell Peyton Atchley (Alpha Mu–Millsaps ’66)

ƒ Frank W. “Hank” Burdine (Delta Beta–Delta State ’67)

ƒ John Rodgers Brashier (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’82)

ƒ McLaslin Carter Dodgen (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’04)

ƒ Randal Ray Ivy (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’82)

ƒ William Malcolm Mounger II (Chi–Vanderbilt ’76)

ƒ Joseph Frank Nassar (Delta Beta–Delta State ’72)

ƒ Brian Esten Quarles (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’91)

ƒ Scott Roach Shoemaker (Beta Tau–Mississippi State ’93)

ƒ Jack Spencer Turner, Sr. (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’59)

ƒ Michael Quirk Walshe, Jr. (Alpha Upsilon–Mississippi ’89)

Bowling Green State University

DATE: Sunday, April 2, 2022

INITIATES: 16 Men

LOCATION: Prout Chapel on Campus

On Sunday, April 2, 2023, a group of sixteen men at Bowling Green State University was inducted into Kappa Alpha Order as members awaiting initiation. The ceremony was held on campus in the Prout Chapel.

Collin B. Taylor (Delta Mu–Eastern Kentucky ’96), Commander of Traylor Province, installed the chapter officers and led the Induction Ceremony with Jeffery D. Dunham (Zeta Lambda–Bowling Green State ’99), and Frank L. Pile (Beta Chi–West Virginia Wesleyan ’61).

In addition to family, friends, and alumni, Director of College and University Relations Cooper W. Carroll (Delta Kappa–Stephen F. Austin State ’17) and Associate Director for Chapter Services Luke D. Snyder (Epsilon Rho–Purdue ’21) were also present.

Irwin

Staff Updates

DEPARTURES

Jacob T. Woodard (Phi–BirminghamSouthern '18) departed the staff in March 2023, to work as a marketing liaison for Encompass Health in Birmingham, Alabama. Jacob joined the KA staff in May 2021 as an associate director for chapter services and was promoted as Director of Risk Management in May 2022.

Brandon A. Ashlock (Gamma Alpha–Louisiana Tech '18) departed the staff in May 2023, to work as a civil engineer in Shreveport, Louisiana. Brandon joined the KA staff in May 2020 as an associate director for chapter services.

Canyon L. Elkins (Gamma Alpha–Louisiana Tech '18) departed the staff in May 2023 to become a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Farmerville, Louisiana. Canyon joined the KA staff in May 2022 as an associate director for chapter services.

Levi A. Dees (Delta Upsilon–TennesseeMartin '18) departed the staff in May 2023, to become a construction manager with CR Wilson Lumber & Supply in Greenfield, Tennessee. Levi joined the KA staff in May 2022 as an associate director for chapter services.

Risk Management Consultant

Linda Wright, became a Risk Management Consultant for the national staff in March 2023.. A longtime friend of the Order and vigorous fraternity advocate, Linda has been helping national fraternity headquarters, fraternity chapters, and individual fraternity members navigate the difficult world of claims and litigation for 30 years. She has spoken at numerous fraternity leadership programs as well

as headquarters staff training events.

Additionally, Rose Kinard joined the national staff in August 2022, along with Brenda Jackson in March 2023. Both are part-time, temporary administrative assistants. Sadly, shortly after joining the staff in January, Tammy McComas experienced conditions necessitating extended medical leave.

ADDITIONS

Brandon M. Brown Gamma Lambda North Texas '21

Christopher T. Geisler Zeta Pi Florida Gulf Coast '19

Bryson S. Piscitelli Upsilon North Carolina '21

Associate Directors for Chapter Services

FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION CENTENNIAL CELEBRATED WITH KA RECOGNITION

The 2023 Annual Conference and Centennial Celebration of the Fraternity Communications Association (FCA) was held May 2–4, 2023, at the Omni Severin in Indianapolis, Indiana. FCA received more than 600 entries in four main categories for 27 separate awards. FCA has 71 member organizations including national fraternities and sororities as well as leadership and honor societies.

tions’ highest honor, the Evin C. Varner Fraternal Communications Award of Distinction.

attractiveness, and relevance to the intended audience.

Buswell re-elected to FCA Board

Brent E. Buswell (Beta Eta–Oklahoma '09), Director of Communications, was re-elected to the FCA Board of Directors as Director of Finance. Buswell was first elected in 2020 and will serve an additional two-year term. He previously served as Membership Committee Chair. He has served on the Order’s staff since 2014.

Lyons recognized with FCA’s highest honor

Jesse S. Lyons (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina '98), Assistant Executive Director for Advancement & Editor of The Kappa Alpha Journal, was the recipient of the Associa -

Lyons is a two-term FCA Past President, having served on the FCA Board for seven years initially, returning for a two-year term during the pandemic to assist. He most recently served as the FCA Centennial Commission Chair. Under Jesse’s leadership, the FCA succeeded in achieving record attendance; creation of a digital archive and history timeline with History IT; a refreshed brand; and the establishment of a “Centennial Fund” with initial contributions totaling more than $217,000 from individuals and organizations.

The Varner Award was established in 1985 to honor Evin C. Varner (Alpha Sigma Phi). The recipient should demonstrate, over a period of years and with notable efforts and results, a record of effectively communicating the meaning and opportunities of fraternal life, through his or her own organization and/or interfraternal associations, of working with and helping others in Greek-letter work, and of interfraternal cooperation, resulting in a high level of peer respect.

Leading in Education of Peers

During the conference, former Journal editor Todd Shelton (Delta Lambda–Middle Tennessee State '90) and the Order’s Director of Community Engagement Marlon Gibson, were two of the four keynote presenters.

Fellows named Executive Vice President for Fraternity Housing Corporation

Founded in 1947, today the Fraternity Housing Corporation (FHC) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kappa Alpha Order. While the FHC board has been comprised of members of the Executive Council since 1992, FHC reorganized its leadership at its board meeting on November 18, 2022.

Chairman – C. Douglas Simmons III (Beta Tau–Mississippi '95)

Vice Chairman – King V. Aiken, Jr. (Kappa–Mercer '83)

Secretary – James M. Schmuck (Alpha Eta–Westminster '69)

Treasurer – Malcolm H. Liles (Gamma–Georgia '71)

President – Larry Stanton Wiese (Gamma Omega–Midwestern State '87)

Additionally, the position of Executive Vice President was created for primary management of FHC, reflecting an increased number of operations related to housing. Brent W. Fellows (Epsilon Theta–Western Kentucky ʹ'96) was appointed to that position. He continues to serve as Assistant Executive Director for Alumni Affairs, and joined the KA staff in 2000.

Lyons

OUR ORDER

News, Notes & Recognition

Awards for Chapter Excellence

Presented in 2023 for chapter achievement in 2022

George C. Marshall Award for Chapter Excellence

The highest honor that can be bestowed upon a chapter is the George C. Marshall Award for Chapter Excellence. This award is presented annually to the top one to three chapters in the Order in recognition for superior operations and performance.

California–Alpha Xi

• Fall 2021: 3.55; Spring 2022: 3.714

• Eighteen members with a 4.0 GPA

• 11.5% year over year growth with 87 Active Members

• 76% of the chapter has completed Council of Honor

• Seven chapter educational programs held

• 21.3 hours per man and $163.33 dollars per man donated for philanthropy

• Nearly every member is involved on campus in another organization or team

Tulsa–Mu

• Fall 2021: 3.32 GPA; Spring 2022: 3.45 GPA

• Highest GPA of all fraternities

• 29 members with a 4.0 GPA in one or both semesters

• Largest chapter on campus with 71 active members, initiating 100% of new members

• 100% of the chapter has completed Council of Honor

• Nearly 15 hours of service donated per man

• Every member of the chapter is involved on campus in another organization or on a sports team

Missouri S&T–Beta Alpha

• Fall 2021: 3.399 GPA; Spring 2022: 3.48 GPA

• Highest GPA of all fraternities

• 38 members with a 4.0 GPA in one or both semesters

• Ten chapter educational programs with a majority of the chapter attending

• 100% of the chapter has completed the Council of Honor

• 77 Active Members

• 23 hours of service and $84.70 dollars donated per man for philanthropy

SUMMER 2023 | THE KAPPA ALPHA JOURNAL 57

Samuel Zenas Ammen Award for Chapter Excellence

The Samuel Zenas Ammen Award for Chapter Excellence is awarded to chapters that are in the top 1520% in the Order based on the applications received. They strive to be the best on campus and in the nation in every aspect of chapter operations.

• Arkansas Tech–Epsilon Zeta

• California–Alpha Xi

• Louisiana Tech–Gamma Alpha

• Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon

• Missouri S&T–Beta Alpha

• Presbyterian–Beta Pi

• South Alabama–Epsilon Alpha

• Texas Tech–Gamma Chi

• Transylvania–Alpha Theta

• Tulsa–Mu

Carl Albert Award for Chapter Improvement

The Carl Albert Award for Chapter Improvement is awarded to one to three chapters annually. It is named for former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Carl Albert (Beta Eta–Oklahoma ’29).

• Centenary–Alpha Iota

Arkansas Tech–Epsilon Zeta

South Alabama–Epsilon Alpha

Centenary–Alpha Iota

SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Academic excellence has been a priority of many Knight Commanders. Through the work of our chapters, and elevated standards from the Ex ecutive Council, we continue to see a rising national GPA and successful brothers on campus.

National Scholarship Trophy

This trophy, located at the national administrative office, is awarded to and engraved with the chapter that achieves the highest combined GPA for the year.

Stanford–Alpha Pi (3.8075 GPA)

Scholastic Excellence Award (3.25+)

Both Fall 2021 & Spring 2022

California–Alpha Xi

(3.59 Fall & 3.54 Spring)

Centenary–Alpha Iota

(3.27 Fall & 3.37 Spring)

Duke–Alpha Phi

(3.82 Fall & 3.78 Spring)

Emory–Epsilon

(3.31 Fall & 3.65 Spring)

(3.55 Fall & 3.64 Spring)

(3.54 Fall & 3.54 Spring)

William Jewell–Alpha Delta (3.46 Fall & 3.43 Spring)

Spring 2022

Arkansas–Alpha Omicron (3.26)

Drury–Beta Iota (3.27)

Mercer–Kappa (3.35)

William & Mary–Alpha Zeta (3.41)

Semester Academic Achievement Award (3.0-3.24)

Both Fall 2021 & Spring 2022

Baylor–Delta Omega (3.02 Fall & 3.11 Spring)

Clemson–Delta Omicron (3.20 Fall & 3.24 Spring)

Colorado–Zeta Alpha (3.04 Fall & 3.14 Spring)

Florida State–Gamma Eta (3.09 Fall & 3.067 Spring)

High Point–Zeta Phi (3.02 Fall & 3.23 Spring)

Louisiana State–Alpha Gamma (3.10 Fall & 3.03 Spring)

Miami–Epsilon Lambda (3.07 Fall & 3.07 Spring)

Missouri–Alpha Kappa (3.05 Fall & 3.2 Spring)

Oklahoma State–Beta Xi (3.24 Fall & 3.15 Spring)

South Carolina–Rho (3.16 Fall & 3.16 Spring)

Transylvania–Alpha Theta (3.02 Fall & 3.07 Spring)

West Virginia Wesleyan–Beta Chi (3.03 Fall & 3.06 Spring

Wofford–Delta (3.12 Fall & 3.13 Spring)

Fall 2021

Alabama–Alpha Beta (3.06)

Arizona–Gamma Epsilon (3.04)

Arkansas-Monticello–Epsilon Chi (3.02)

Arkansas–Alpha Omicron (3.24)

Auburn–Nu (3.15)

Campbell–Zeta Psi (3.01)

Drury–Beta Iota (3.18)

Transylvania–Alpha Theta

East Carolina–Gamma Rho (3.055)

Hampden-Sydney–Alpha Tau (3.04)

Marshall–Beta Upsilon (3.0)

Mercer–Kappa (3.23)

Northern Arizona–Epsilon Tau (3.0)

Southern Indiana–Zeta Omicron (3.13)

Texas A&M–Epsilon Delta (3.15)

West Florida Provisional Chapter (3.12)

William & Mary–Alpha Zeta (3.167)

Spring 2022

Arizona State–Epsilon Omega (3.018)

Austin Peay State–Zeta Tau (3.15)

Birmingham-Southern–Phi (3.098)

Jacksonville State–Delta Phi (3.13)

Kentucky–Theta (3.07)

Memphis–Gamma Gamma (3.15)

Middle Tennessee State–Delta Lambda (3.04)

Millsaps–Alpha Mu (3.21)

Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon (3.09)

Newberry–Delta Epsilon (3.016)

North Carolina State–Alpha Omega (3.1)

North Carolina-Charlotte–Epsilon Xi (3.086)

North Florida–Zeta Nu (3.0)

Presbyterian–Beta Pi (3.0)

Sam Houston State–Gamma Tau (3.08)

South Alabama–Epsilon Alpha (3.17)

Southern Illinois–Zeta Sigma (3.03)

Southwestern–Xi (3.01)

Tennessee Tech–Zeta Epsilon (3.19)

Texas Tech–Gamma Chi (3.01)

Valdosta State–Delta Rho (3.21)

Virginia Tech–Epsilon Eta (3.062)

San Diego State–Gamma Omega (3.024)

Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon

PROJECT OUTREACH AWARDS

KA is pledged to the pursuit of excellence, and our brothers are committed to the development of themselves and others. With this challenge, we must assume responsibilities in many areas. Chapters across the nation offer their time and resources each year to benefit local and national philanthropies and charities.

Knight Commander’s Cup

Awarded to the chapter with the best overall effort in Operation Crimson Gift, the Order’s blood drive initiative. Unfortunately, restrictions on campus again prevented chapters from actively participating in blood drives during 2022.

Outstanding Dollars per Man

• California–Alpha Xi ($163 per man)

• Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon ($300 per man)

• Presbyterian–Beta Pi ($377.55 per man)

• South Alabama–Epsilon Alpha ($197.48 per man)

• Tennessee-Martin–Delta Upsilon ($255.33 per man)

California–Alpha Xi

CHAPTER OPERATIONS AWARDS

Chapters are recognized, based on their applications for a variety of areas of operations.

Excellence in Marketing and Advertising

Whether it is an event or year-long plan, these chapters utilize several forms of marketing and advertising to promote membership, fundraising, or otherwise the KA experience at their campus.

• Arkansas Tech–Epsilon Zeta (Fall ’22 Philanthropy Week benefiting Crawford Elementary School)

• California–Alpha Xi (Waffle Day)

• Centenary–Alpha Iota (Alumni Homecoming Tailgate)

• Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon (Spring ’22 Alumni and Parents Weekend)

• Presbyterian–Beta Pi (Clay Shoot for MDA)

• Missouri S&T–Beta Alpha (AmeriKAn Glow Party)

• Texas Tech–Gamma Chi (Kalf Fry benefiting MDA)

• Tulsa–Mu (Color Run benefiting MDA)

Excellence in Correspondence

These chapters regularly and effectively communicate with various constituencies on their campus, within their alumni, and throughout KA.

• Arkansas Tech–Epsilon

Zeta

• California–Alpha Xi

• Centenary–Alpha Iota

• Louisiana Tech–Gamma Alpha

• Memphis–Gamma Gamma

• Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon

• Presbyterian–Beta Pi

• Tulsa–Mu

Excellence in Educational Programming

These chapters schedule speakers and/or workshops, attend opportunities on campus, and lead a comprehensive approach to membership education, which might include Council of Honor, The Crusade, and other areas of leadership and values education.

• Missouri S&T–Beta Alpha

Outstanding Recruitment & Chapter Growth

These chapters show the coordination of a year-round, values-based approach to recruitment, using chapter accomplishments and involvement to effectively recruit and retain new members.

California–Alpha Xi

Louisiana Tech–Gamma Alpha

Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon

Excellence in Chapter Finance

These chapters should have submitted all national reports on time, maintained generally a zero balance, maintain great records, utilize the tools of OmegaFi for budgeting and collecting, and maintain a minimum accounts receivable from their membership.

California–Alpha Xi

CHAPTER ETERNAL

Alabama–Alpha Beta

Thomas Major Bashinsky, Jr., 1965, 5/15/10

Hon. Donald Elmore

Brutkiewicz, Jr., 1973, 6/16/22

Dr. William E. Davis, 1953, 9/3/20

Paul D. Gates, 1970, 7/1/22

Albert T. Harris, Jr., 1954, 11/10/22

Robert Hembree, 2011, 1/25/22

Samuel Graves Lowrey, III, 1984, 9/10/19

Robert E. Moorer, 1957, 3/31/23

Appalachian State–Delta Psi

Robert J. Brassil, 1976, 4/29/23

Arkansas–Alpha Omicron

Chad H. Carpenter, 1996, 3/21/22

Arkansas State–Delta Eta

Lowell M. Long, 1967, 5/7/23

Arkansas Tech–Epsilon Zeta

J. Kevin Johnson, 1983, 6/28/11

Auburn–Nu

Charles O. Ashley, 1950, 12/29/22

Julius Edward Chapman, Jr., 1953, 11/14/22

William C. Connor, 1974, 11/23/18

Robert S. Driggers, 1975, 10/9/22

Dr. Daniel C. Holsenbeck, 1962, 12/5/22

Baylor–Delta Omega

Andre S. Granzotti, 1983, 8/5/20

John M. Hill, 1991, 4/24/23

Bethany–Beta Beta

John L. Souter, 1971, 12/31/22

Birmingham-Southern–Phi

James Robison Harper, Jr., 1969, 4/4/23

California–Alpha Xi

Joseph Robert Kapp, 1957, 5/8/23

Ronald C. Peterson, 1954, 11/10/22

William H. Turnquist, 1949, 5/17/23

Centenary–Alpha Iota

James A. Hudson, 1964, 4/12/23

Charleston–Beta Gamma

John H. Tiller, 1981, 5/31/22

Citadel–Theta Commission

COL James M. Alford, 2010, 2/26/23

CPT James C. Blakely, Jr., Esq., 2010, 2/5/23

LTC Lloyd Rice Gunn, Jr., 2013, 1/27/23

LTC Donald Lanier Plunkett, 2009, 1/25/23

Clemson–Delta Omicron Edrew S. Clark, 2004, 3/13/23

Thomas W. Eiserhardt, 1971, 11/22/22

Davidson–Sigma

Jim Blanding Holman, III, 1957, 2/13/20

Delta State–Delta Beta MG Alben N. Hopkins, Sr., Esq., USA, 1964, 2/12/23

Duke–Alpha Phi

Dr. Kenneth Dan Adcock, 1956, 9/19/20

George G. Guthrie, 1962, 11/15/22

Dr. David S. Hubbell, 1940, 1/11/18

Dr. A. Tyson Jennette, 1953, 11/24/22

Thomas Swain Kale, 1958, 12/20/22

Marvin D. Musselwhite, Jr., 1957, 1/26/23

Rev. Charles Alexander Sineath, Jr., 1958, 7/23/22

Maurice H. Sobell, III, 1969, 2/25/23

East Carolina–Gamma Rho

Nathaniel O. Van Nortwick, III, 1961, 11/9/22

Michael L. Warren, 1976, 9/10/22

Eastern Kentucky–Delta Mu

Ronald Coleman Taylor, 2015, 2/23/23

LTC John Michael Wills (Ret), 1969, 3/18/23

Emory–Epsilon

Dr. Carl Jackson Arnold, Jr., 1942, 6/15/08

William Zimmerman Cannon, 1966, 4/19/23

Dr. Thomas E. Moak, 1969, 3/17/23

William Davidson Morrison, Jr., 1941, 11/30/22

Dr. William John O'Shaughnessey, Jr., 1949, 12/31/22

E. Ritchie Williams, 1981, 12/28/22

Florida–Beta Zeta

James M. Barco, 1937, 8/1/08

Arthur E. Burrows, Jr., 1966, 3/1/19

J. Richard Dreggors, 1957, 1/19/23

Allen C. McKay, 1922

John B. Sweger, 1938, 2/5/08

William S. Wood, 1956, 11/1/22

Henry R. Woodward, 1939, 7/20/09

Florida Southern–Gamma Pi

Gary C. English, 1960, 2/9/13

Florida State–Gamma Eta

Ramon S. Arnold, 1957, 10/5/21

Ernest W. Burch, Jr., 1960, 11/9/22

Rick E. Lafountain, 1969, 1/22/23

Robert G. Rush, 1970, 2/1/23

Furman–Iota

John P. Bean, 1957, 12/22/22

Anthony P. Blackwell, 1968, 12/21/23

James R. Brannon, 1969, 3/16/23

William K. Chastain, 1962, 9/30/22

Mark D. McNabb, 2004, 5/28/22

George Washington–Alpha Nu

Don P. McAdoo, 1942

Robert A. Wille, 1937, 9/27/04

Georgetown–Beta Delta

J. Richard Gibbs, 1963, 3/17/20

The Hon. Carroll Hubbard, Jr., 1957, 11/12/22

Georgia–Gamma

Duncan H. Adams, 1987, 9/5/21

Thomas L. Arnold, 1972, 3/18/23

George Washington Hart, Jr., 1965, 9/24/19

Robert J. Middleton, Jr., 1977, 12/16/22

Frederick William Mingledorff, Jr., 1946, 7/29/22

Thomas Daniel Sims, Jr., 1962, 1/29/23

John Wilford Trulock, Jr., 1966, 11/13/22

Heeth Varnedoe III, 1958, 3/27/23

Kenny D. Youmans, 1962, 1/27/23

Georgia College–Epsilon Nu

Joseph V. Leberte, 2012, 3/5/23

Gary N. Sirmon, 1987, 6/28/16

Anthony Carl Snow, 2004, 9/16/14

Terrin R. Watkins, 1994, 8/15/18

Georgia Southern–Delta Theta

Edward Lee McCurry, 2001, 7/14/20

Richard A. Murray, 1968, 1/4/22

Terry V. Webb, 1968, 11/23/21

Georgia Tech–Alpha Sigma Dr. Daniel L. Albritton, 1957, 4/1/23

J. Franklin Bryant, 1948, 2/20/08

Douglas P. Cone, 1946, 11/30/14

COL W. Benjamin Grimes III, 1967, 4/16/22

Dr. James Frank Hodges, Jr., 1951, 9/3/21

Edwin King Nelson, III, 1945, 7/27/11

Robert H. Ramsey, 1952

Hampden-Sydney–Alpha Tau

Richard B. Billings, 1950, 3/3/16

Dr. Harry E. Ramsey, Jr., 1957, 3/4/23

Charles S. Sanderson, 1962, 6/22/20

Houston–Gamma Mu

James K. Grigsby, Jr., 1956, 2/17/20

Johns Hopkins–Alpha Lambda

Robert C. Morris, 1951, 2/16/20

Kentucky–Theta

Robert J. Hundley, 1961, 10/19/19

Dr. Merritt William Marrs, Jr., 1966, 1/15/23

George B. Stone, 1950, 5/31/20

Robert E. Sutherland, 1957, 2/9/23

Louisiana State–Alpha Gamma

Chad A. Woodburn, 1997, 12/26/22

Fletcher R. Young, Jr., 1947, 11/13/21

Louisiana State-Shreveport–

Delta Chi

Milton C. Finley, 1976, 2/7/23

Louisiana Tech–Gamma Alpha

Douglas W. Robertson, 1955, 4/14/23

Louisiana-Lafayette–Gamma

Phi

Henry F. Anderson, 1962, 2/15/23

Joe A. Baggett, 1966, 6/27/20

John H. Broussard, 1963, 4/3/16

Louis A. Cefolia, 1965, 5/19/23

Phillip O. Clark, 1969, 3/8/23

Ronald L. Davis, 1964, 9/9/15

Robert Alan Forbes, 1964, 6/7/16

Lurlein J. Guidry, 1965, 4/8/19

Louisiana-Monroe–Gamma Nu

John V. Johnson, 1978, 10/7/89

Michael O. Martin, 1974, 9/28/21

Ralph T. Page, 1978, 7/24/20

Dr. Jack B. Parker, 1956, 4/8/23

Maurice E. Pearson, 1964, 12/28/22

Stephen A. Simmons, 1977, 3/8/23

Louisville–Beta Omicron

Joe E. Miller, 1957, 5/24/19

Marshall–Beta Upsilon

Dr. Walter D. Shields, Jr., 1966, 1/12/23

Maryland–Beta Kappa

Andrew Gwynn Bowie, Jr., 1964, 5/1/23

Chester P. Grassmuck, Jr., 1941

Raymond E. Koontz, 1970, 4/13/23

Charles J. Mannix, 1962, 4/11/23

Rudolph L. Vincenti, 1945

Memphis–Gamma Gamma

J. Tim McCarver, 1962, 2/16/23

Mark H. Penny, 1982, 4/8/23

Charles E. Sibley, 1948, 7/11/20

Jeffrey K. Smith, 1988

Harry S. Zepatos, Jr., 1976, 11/16/22

Mercer–Kappa

David Clark Ballard, 1960, 1/25/23

Jimmy L. Bowman, 1957, 5/9/23

John Leonard Cone, Jr., 1979, 9/16/22

Robert Lee Dickey, II, 2004, 11/16/22

Charles Brittian Gaston, Jr., 1975, 9/3/11

David Guber, 1987

J. Doyle Pinholster, 1956, 3/15/18

Durward Donell Pinkston, Jr., 1953, 12/31/05

J. Craig Price, 1976

Rabun Clifford Sanders, Jr., 1958

Arthur S. Wallace, 1970

Middle Tennessee State–Delta Lambda

Richard A. Barnes, 1969, 5/9/23

James W. Kirby, 1969, 4/22/19

Midwestern State–Gamma Omega

Eldon D. Alderman, 1968, 1/23/22

Robert J. Stonecipher, 2000, 11/15/22

Millsaps–Alpha Mu

Martin H. Baker, 1946, 4/4/22

James L. Broadhead, 1962, 11/25/22

Hubert Bascom Holmes, Jr., 1944, 1/23/19

Joseph M. Kennedy, 1959, 3/17/23

William D. Morrison, Jr., 1945, 11/30/22

Dr. William H. Murdock, Jr., 1949, 2/2/23

Johnny L. Reeves, 1963, 2/3/23

James I. Williams, 1965, 8/10/20

Mississippi–Alpha Upsilon

Sam N. Fonda, 1970, 3/15/21

Jack D. Hawkins, 1969, 6/4/22

A. Bryce Horton, 2002, 9/7/22

Kenneth Angelo Primos, Sr., 1948, 12/24/22

COL Bobby A. Towery III, 1979, 10/26/19

Mississippi State–Beta Tau

Chad A. Powell, 2000, 8/18/15

Missouri–Alpha Kappa

Laurence H. Flanigan, 1942, 2/9/15

Gale L. Hackman, 1962, 10/17/22

Missouri S&T–Beta Alpha

Raymond E. Doerr, Jr., 1964, 4/23/22

Missouri Southern State–Delta

Pi

Fratres Usque Ad Aram Fideles

Dr. Mark A. Melton, 1949, 2/15/19

James W. Swank, 1962, 6/20/20

Oklahoma City–Gamma Kappa

Ross N. Johnson, 1968, 1/21/23

Jason A. Kiehl, 1988, 2/17/23

Donald G. Lee, Sr., 1952, 11/7/22

COL Willie R. Points, 1958, 1/15/22

Oklahoma State–Beta Xi

William M. Weaver, 1960, 4/6/23

Old Dominion–Delta Gamma

Joseph A. Crosby, 1965, 12/3/20

Ronald H. Wirt, Jr., 1978, 12/6/22

Presbyterian–Beta Pi

Kevin D. Herd, 1972, 12/17/22

Barry D. Richard, 1972, 12/16/21

Gary D. Sorensen, 1971, 11/20/22

Missouri State–Gamma Beta

Timothy A. Love, 1976, 9/8/21

Paul B. Luebbers, 1985, 12/17/20

James C. Moseley, 1950, 11/24/15

Newberry–Delta Epsilon

Sidney S. Riggs III, 1966, 1/13/23

GEN Henry I. Siegling, Sr., 1969, 4/26/23

North Carolina–Upsilon

Howard Simpson Fogleman, Jr., 1949, 3/5/23

William O. King, 1958, 10/5/22

North Carolina State–Alpha

Omega

David M. Lambert, Jr., 1974, 5/12/23

North Texas–Gamma Lambda

Thomas Leo Brown, 1957, 11/1/22

Larry T. Hargrove, 1960, 1/9/21

Donald R. January, 1953, 5/7/23

Thornton F. White, Jr., 1954, 10/28/22

John O. McCarthy, 1965, 3/4/23

Northwestern State–Gamma Psi

Philip A. Ackel, 1981, 9/20/20

Jonathan Cole Harris, 2019, 12/16/20

Cary J. Janet, 2000, 11/24/20

H. Lynn Juban, 1967, 1/30/23

L. Oakley Pittman, 1971, 10/9/22

Alexander S. Zelich, 1992, 7/14/22

Oklahoma–Beta Eta

Trent A. Bovard, 1999, 1/3/20

Thomas E. Addison, Jr., 1974, 11/27/22

Clauson Ronald Coward, Jr., 1985, 5/3/23

William H. Oliver, III, 1961, 2/16/23

Randolph-Macon–Zeta

Theodore A. Bell III, 1965, 1/20/23

J. Whiting Chisman, Jr., 2017, 11/26/22

Dr. Lawrence E. Heiskell, 1974, 10/1/22

David A. Jones, 1964, 12/19/22

Rhodes–Alpha Epsilon

Richard H. Crawford, 1955, 5/31/19

Dr. Michael B. Lupfer, 1956, 10/23/18

Roanoke–Beta Rho

Theodore L. Plunkett, Jr., 1943, 12/6/18

Justin M. Thomas, 1993, 8/31/22

Rollins–Alpha Psi

Wallace J. Gamber, 1969, 6/26/20

Sam Houston State–Gamma Tau Guy Kamp, 1987, 12/28/22

Joseph L. Runnels, 1964, 2/11/23

Univ. of the South–Alpha Alpha

Walter M. Brice III, 1952, 3/22/19

The Hon. Kenneth Bemis Followill, 1953, 5/14/23

Jack W. Hatfield, 1950, 1/15/08

William Raymond Stamler, Jr., 1952, 2/8/23

South Alabama–Epsilon Alpha LT Jeffrey W. Martin, 1977, 1/8/23

South Carolina–Rho

Wriston Brock Conrad, Jr., 1955, 12/18/22

Edwin B. Duncan, Jr., 1976, 8/1/22

Dr. Archie Hardy III, 1956, 4/11/23

Ralph B. Huffman, 1978

Anthony James Johnston, III, 1957, 11/11/21

Dr. Robert Collins Wimberly, Jr., 1953, 12/24/20

Southeastern Louisiana–

Epsilon Kappa

Gary W. Keyser, 1992, 1/3/21

Southern Methodist–Beta

Lambda

Pierce M. Allman, 1951, 11/25/22

Wilbur J. Roberts, 1947, 12/12/20

Edward Starr, Jr., 1943, 11/8/22

Walter M. Cook, 1974, 12/28/22

J. Harper Davis, 1954, 11/10/21

Ronald J. Farmer, 1965, 10/28/22

Steven Lavelle Floyd, 1980, 6/15/21

Jimmy R. Harper, Jr., 1970, 4/5/23

H. Mark Purdy, 1965, 10/30/22

Southwestern–Xi

H. Parker Davis, 1967, 3/3/21

Mark W. Frost, 1980, 5/6/18

Courtney Sheldon Goodman, Jr., 1954, 8/1/84

Wendell L. Graves, 1949, 4/26/15

Alvin Franklin Guthrie, Jr., 1948, 12/3/18

Dr. George Chappell Hardy, Jr., 1956, 3/3/95

J. Page Harmon, 1969, 5/15/06

Richard K. Hershey, 1944, 10/27/07

Dr. Sul-Ross Harrington. Jr., 1953, 6/15/95

Andrew P. Hart, 1947, 11/19/97

Herbert Andrew Heitman, Jr., 1945, 1/25/01

W. Lynn Hendrick, 1965, 10/31/16

Albert Reece Henry, Jr., 1943, 2/12/83

Allen C. Holley, 1945, 8/9/92

Dwight R. House, 1948, 8/22/15

James Harold Jones, II, 1963, 4/6/20

James A. Keys, 1958, 11/19/17

Robert E. Koenig, 1949, 3/19/16

David R. Krueger, 1963, 5/2/13

John V. La Barbera, 1951, 3/18/21

Gerald T. Langford, 1953, 2/20/08

Lee Lawrence, Jr., 1937, 2/26/07

William Bryan Leonard, Jr., 1960, 7/12/20

Rev. Thomas L. Loftin, 1962, 3/19/17

Robert Wells Loveless, Jr., 1960,

1/11/20

Calvin Loykasek, 1946, 8/18/88

Robert J. Martin, 1945, 7/15/97

Frank Ernest Martinets, Jr., 1946, 7/8/18

Kenneth C. Matthews, 1947, 7/20/01

Clyde Ellison McKinney, Jr., 1947, 8/24/15

James S. Melbert, 1940, 5/23/15

Walter M. Merchant, 1944, 2/18/14

George Hubert Merritt, Jr., 1949, 5/13/07

William J. Middlebrook, 1956, 10/29/96

Stanford–Alpha Pi

Harry Owen Davis, Jr., 1976, 6/21/20

Donald H. Sweet, 1943, 5/12/22

Stephen F. Austin State–Delta

Kappa

Paul J. Reid, 1986, 2/22/23

Tennessee–Pi

Dr. H. Larry Grissom DDS, 1967, 4/26/23

John Henry Tunstall, Jr., 1981, 2/26/23

Texas–Omicron

Dell T. Gibson, 1958, 12/8/22

William E. Glass, 1980, 11/5/22

Charles Howard Huffman, 1944, 1/23/23

Ryan C. Lynch, 1994, 4/6/20

John D. McStay, 1962, 3/21/23

Dr. James A. Prentice, 1956, 5/19/23

Texas A&M-Commerce–Gamma

Upsilon

Stephen G. McBride, 1981, 3/12/23

Robert R. Richardson, 1972, 6/19/20

D. Neal Valenta, 1970, 12/12/22

Alvin C. Watson, 1965

Texas State–Epsilon Iota

Josh B. Price, 2009, 1/31/23

Texas Tech–Gamma Chi

Donald E. Barnhill, 1971, 5/15/18

T. Dale Jones, 1963, 11/6/22

Texas Wesleyan–Zeta Xi

Gregory M. Guttman, 2003

Tulane–Psi

Watson R. Taylor, 1944, 10/3/21

Tulsa–Mu

David A. Johnson, 1954, 11/12/14

J. Gordon. Loucks, 1962, 2/15/23

Valdosta State–Delta Rho

Daniel P. Elliott, 1982, 11/7/22

Vanderbilt–Chi

Jesse Norman Bradley, Jr., 1964, 2/14/19

Jerry N. Jordan, 1946, 11/20/22

Dr. John L. Rogers, 1945, 12/30/21

VMI–Beta Commission

Tyler Scott Reedy, 2011, 8/25/21

Jacob H. Wamsley II, 1951, 3/17/23

Wake Forest–Tau

Dr. Charles Insley Allen, Jr., 1942, 10/20/11

Charles B. Parker, 1966, 3/8/23

William English Tomlinson, Jr., 1951, 4/13/11

Washington & Lee–Alpha

Richard K. Hardage, 1981, 4/3/20

Univ. of Washington–Beta

Theta

Bernhard Otto Schuler, 1947, 2/16/17

West Texas A&M–Gamma Sigma

Carroll L. Steagall, 1960, 6/7/19

West Virginia Wesleyan–Beta

Chi

James F. Hennessey, 1972, 3/9/23

Curtis H. O'Hagan, 1963, 12/26/22

Western Carolina–Delta Alpha Michael C. Womack, 1972, 5/30/23

Westminster–Alpha Eta Robert A. Briggs, 1961, 8/17/21

Thadeus J. Brudniak, 1949, 3/2/23

David R. Clevenger II, 1959, 12/24/20

Paul K. Davis, 1960, 6/23/21 Jack N. Gonz, 1948, 3/24/21

William & Mary–Alpha Zeta Herbert Gray Chandler, Jr., 1947, 2/10/23

Adolphus Lowe Lunsford, III, 1954, 12/31/22

William C. Remick, 1941, 8/5/19

William Jewell–Alpha Delta Rev. Jack Milton Dewees, Jr., 1969, 11/19/20

Daniel B. Marks, 1968, 8/16/19

Wofford–Delta

Dr. James Riley Gettys, Jr., 1965, 11/15/22

Jerry J. Richardson, 1957, 3/1/23

RECOGNITION

Donation In Honor of:

Tyler Kirk Coker

by LTC Steven K. Coker

William E. Dreyer by Daniel W. Mills

LtCol James Christian

Duncan, USAF by J. Michael Duncan

Thomas C. Palmer by Bruce L. Hudson

Benjamin W. Satcher, Jr. by MG Donald R. Gardner USMC (Ret)

C. Edward Schmidt Jr. by William E. Steinkamp

Dr. Idris Rhea Traylor Jr. by Timothy Killen Adams, Sr. Stephen J. LaFollette

As early as 1952, the former “Kappa Alpha Scholarship Fund” was promoted with the following quote from Councilor Vernon H. McCall (Xi–Southwestern 1911):

“ Flowers are a beautiful conveyance of love and sympathy, but wither. Love and sympathy expressed through our scholarship fund, is life.”

Today, the Kappa Alpha Order Education Foundation’s recognition program receives tax-deductible donations “In Honor” or “In Memory” of anyone and from anyone. Generally, one brother makes a donation in honor of a brother or group and designates it to recognize friendship, achievement, or significance; or one may make a donation in memory of a beloved brother, in lieu of flowers or some other recognition.

Gifts count toward a member’s annual giving level and typically are unrestricted (but not required).

Special notice is sent to the honoree or the family of the deceased brother, and those are then able to send a prepared thank you note back to the donor, creating a sincere and deserved system of recognition and thanks.

 Make your tribute at KAOEF.org/donate

CPT Ronald C. Plunkett by James Lockemy

Larry Stanton Wiese by D. Mitchell Sheaffer

Donation In Memory of:

COL James M. Alford

by CPT Ronald C. Plunkett

Doug Mack Allen

by D. Joseph McInnes

Thomas L. Arnold by Calvin S. Hopkins III

David Clark Ballard by Timothy Killen Adams, Sr

Richard A. Barnes by L. Blair Bailey

R. Sidney Cauthorn

Mrs. Dina A. Dudley

J. Michael Duncan

David B. Hawkins

Douglas M. Johnson

Jesse S. Lyons

Ben W. Satcher, Jr.

Gregory R. Singleton

Mrs. Brianne A. Tillotson

George D. Townes

Eddie S. Wilson

David R. Worley

Larry Stanton Wiese

Mrs. Louise Beard by Larry Stanton Wiese

Jimmy L. Bowman

by Timothy Killen Adams, Sr.

Thomas B. Buck III by Dr. Sidney Halleck Yarbrough III, MD

Albert J. Cavenaugh Jr. by Cameron W. Lee, Jr.

Brett Evan Creel by Ryan Patrick McCarthy

James Kelly O'Malley

Kevin Thornton

Jon Edward Turner

Ms. Rose Walters

Rev. Timothy L. Croft

by Dr. Heber Grey Winfield, III

B. Jack Daniel

by Ms. Bennette Daniel

Earl Russell Epperson, Jr.

by E. Russell Epperson III

Dr. Ronald Calhoun Fulmer

by CPT Ronald C. Plunkett

Barry Dale Harris

by Jay M. Blalock

Carroll F. Hoffman

by Carl W. Bragg

In Memory. In Honor.

MG Alben N. Hopkins Sr. Esq., USA

by Dr. Jason R. Barrett

The Hon. John C. Cox

Jesse S. Lyons

Joseph F. Nassar

Eddie S. Wilson

James Walter Wood, Jr.

Charles Anderson Hostetler, Jr.

by Lewie Lanham Bates, III

Stephen Kirtley by Larry Stanton Wiese

John Gordon Loucks

by MAJ Charle A. Bertalot

Adolphus Lowe

Lunsford, III

by Miles Racey Orndorff, Jr.

John O. McCarthy

by Mark C. Reaves

Scott William McFarland

by Jeffrey S. Zacharia

Julian A. Pardini

J. Michael Duncan

Joseph M. Pazdan, II

by Ben W. Satcher, Jr.

Mrs. Cindy Peak

by Larry Stanton Wiese

Mark Harold Penny

by Gregory R. Singleton

Larry B. Reeves

by Randolph D. Royall, Sr.

Johnny Lafayette Reeves by Dr. H. Tom Williams

Jerome J. Richardson

by Larry Stanton Wiese

Wade H. Davis

Ben W. Satcher, Jr.

John Banks Robertson, Jr. by Regan Branch

Douglas W. Robertson by Larry Stanton Wiese

Benjamin W. Satcher, Sr.

by Timothy Killen Adams, Sr.

Andrew P. Carr

Fraternity And Sorority Action Fund

Tanner L. Gellinger

Darren S. Kay

Dwain P. Knight

Stephen J. Lafollette

Malcolm H. Liles

Jesse S. Lyons

Gregory R. Singleton

Hon. David M. Warren

Larry Stanton Wiese

GEN Henry I. Siegling, Sr. by Wade H. Davis

CPT Ronald C. Plunkett

LTC John Michael Wills, USMC (Ret)

by John J. Barker

Michael W. Nantz

Michael W. Nantz

LOYAL LEGACY

three years as a Navy lieutenant, junior grade, in the Pacific Theater. Kent most recently lived in Endwell, New York. He was preceded in death his wife, Ruth Ann, and a nephew, Remy Stoffel of St. Louis.

According to the November 1941 edition of The Kappa Alpha Journal, Brother Stoffel was part of the “most successful rush week in recent years,” at Alpha Eta, totaling 22 new members. He quickly became involved and played on the chapter’s softball team.

Following the United States’ entry into World War Two, Brother Stoffel joined the U.S. Navy. In his junior year, 1944, he left college to attend the U.S. Navy’s Training School for Midshipmen at Camp Macdonough in Plattsburg, New York, at Lake Champlain. He was one of nearly two dozen KAs at the school. He shortly thereafter received his commission as an Ensign. He was assigned to a ship that was commissioned in Portland, Oregon, and sailed to the Pacific Theater in 1945. His role then was Assistant Navigator and Communications Officer.

1865 Trust

Kent B. Stoffel

(Alpha Eta Chapter–Westminster ’42) passed away in 2022 at the age of 99. Recently, the Kappa Alpha Order Educational Foundation received an estate gift from him totaling more than $ 500,000. His gift will provide meaningful scholarships to members of the Alpha Eta Chapter. Kappa Alpha Order and the KAOEF appreciate his generosity and lasting legacy.

Kent was born in 1923, in St Louis, Missouri. He first attended Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, where he was initiated in 1942 by the Alpha Eta Chapter. He then transferred and graduated from Washington University in St. Louis where he affiliated with the Beta Theta Chapter. He graduated with a B.S. degree in engineering. His clubs included the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and The Engineers Club of St. Louis. During World War II, he served

In the March 1946 Journal Brother Stoffel was reported as “promoted to Lieutenant (jg) upon arriving at San Diego, California, on January 27, 1946. While aboard the LCS (L)38, in the Pacific for the past 14 months, he participated in the battle of Okinawa, and later destroyed mines off the coast of Japan and in the China sea. The ship has returned to the States to be decommissioned.”

You may be interested in leaving a legacy to the Kappa Alpha Order Educational Foundation by making a planned gift through your estate. There are a variety of planned giving options available and we will be happy to work with you in selecting the option that has the most benefit to you and your family. The 1865 Trust is the most celebrated estate planning program in the entire fraternity world.

Other ways to Support the KAOEF & Kappa Alpha Order

Forever KA

www.ForeverKA.org

Crimson & Gold Society

w ww.KAcrimson

andgold.com

Loyal Order

www.LoyalOrder.org

Group of KAs at the Navy Training School for Midshipmen at Lake Champlain. Brother Stoffel is last on the right, on the back row. The Kappa Alpha Journal, November 1944.

Ensign Stoffel presumably in Portland, Oregon, before he sailed for the Pacific Theater, on the LCS(L) (38) in early 1945. The Kappa Alpha Journal, January 1945.

Ensuring the future of Kappa Alpha Order

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Westminster Rookie of the Week

Pitcher Notches First Win, Serves as Number V

Athletics.

Freshman Derek S. Archer (Alpha Eta–Westminster ’22) was recently given an honorable mention for “Pitcher of the Week” for the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) and was named the “Rookie of the Week” by the NCBWA. Derek notched his first collegiate win with a one-hit, nine-inning shutout in Sunday’s 1–0 victory over Grinnell College (Iowa). The right-hander, who carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning, was named to D3baseball.com’s Team of the Week and was the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week after striking out nine and not allowing a walk.

In addition to pitching for the Westminster Blue Jays, Derek is serving

his chapter as Number V (Historian). He attended Francis Howell North High School in St. Charles, Missouri.

Founded in 1962, the NCBWA is dedicated to the advancement of college baseball. Membership is open to writers, broadcasters, and publicists of the sport. Members receive a membership card, directory, newsletter updates, and official votes in the Dick Howser Player of the Year Award, Regional Player of the Year, and NCBWA AllAmerica voting. The NCBWA also sponsors preseason All-America awards, publication contests, and writing contests.

Photos courtesy of Westminster College

Your KA Scoreboard

VOLUNTARY REMARKS

Buy Now… or Wait?

Dealing with today’s housing dilemma…

By Norman Block (Upsilon—North Carlina ’69)

Many would-be homebuyers are looking at today’s higher home prices and higher interest rates and are saying things like: “I am going to wait for home prices to come down!” or “I am going to wait until interest rates get back down into the 3% range!” Unfortunately, in my opinion, those kinds of comments are misdirected and misinformed. The truth is that now is a good time to be buying a home! Let’s explore that.

Home Prices

Yes, home prices have really soared in the past two to three years … but is it realistic to think home prices are going to fall? Maybe (possibly) home prices could soften a little bit in the more rural areas of the country where demand for housing is weak, but in urban settings and most parts of the country there are many more people who want to buy homes than the available inventory can accommodate. In those areas prices are not coming down.

People are staying in their homes longer than ever before because it is so expensive to move. Aging Americans are

choosing to “age in place” as opposed to moving into retirement communities. A survey by AARP showed that 76% of Americans older than 50 said they wanted to age in place and stay in their homes. That means their homes are not becoming available for other buyers. Millennials, Generation X, and even Generation Z all initially postponed family formation … and thus household formation, waiting until older ages to make those moves. Now those big cohorts of Americans are settling down and they are seeing the financial

for less in the future. The price of raw materials is not likely to decrease; in fact, quite the opposite is expected. There is no indication at all that home prices in most markets will lose value or that prices will fall to any significant degree.

Mortgage Rates

advantages of homeownership. All signs point to demand for housing staying strong for the foreseeable future.

Developable land in growing areas is certainly not going to be any less expensive in coming years. Contractors working today are not going to work

Regarding home mortgage interest rates, it is true that rates today are hovering in the 6.25% to 6.75% range, and that is considerably higher that what we were spoiled with during the pandemic years. People today are looking (hoping) for the return of 3% mortgage rates. That is highly unlikely to happen at any point in the near term. During the pandemic years interest rates in general were held down artificially low by the Federal Reserve setting the rate it charges member banks at zero. That was artificial and is not likely to happen again in any projectable future that we can see. Nothing today points to the Fed behaving like that again anytime soon.

Actually 6–6.5% is a fairly normal home mortgage rate. According to Freddie

"All signs point to demand for housing staying strong for the foreseeable future."

Mac PMMS (c) TheMortgageReports. com, “30-year mortgage rates in the United States averaged 7.74% from 1971 until 2023, reaching an all-time high of 18.63% in October 1981 and a record low of 2.65% in January 2021.” We just got spoiled in 2020 and 2021 by an artificial situation.

So, what does all this mean?

Take Advantage Of Current Market

If you or someone you know is holding back, waiting, hoping that prices are going to come down … they are sadly mistaken for most places in America. It just is not going to happen. It is certainly not going to happen in our immediate area! If someone is waiting for home mortgage rates to fall back to the artificially low levels of the pandemic, that isn’t going to happen either!

and when, mortgage rates drop. You should ask about free refinance offers!

So don’t sit on the sidelines bemoaning the current market!

There are tremendous advantages financially for home ownership. One of the biggest financial advantages is the wonderful tax savings available on the appreciation of one’s personal residence. A married couple today can see their primary residence appreciate up to $500,000 in value and pay no taxes ever on that gain.

In addition, for most taxpayers, mortgage interest is tax deductible making the effective interest rate actually incurred much lower than the face rate on the mortgage itself. And do not forget that as homeowners make monthly payments on their mortgages, they are typically paying down the loan balance some each month with the principal portion of the P&I payment. That is like a forced savings account … you will see those dollars again!

Wait, What About Rent?

Norman Block

By the time a homebuyer today waits… hoping for better mortgage rates… home prices will have increased more than the homebuyer can save by a small decrease in interest rates… and that is really all we can expect. Experts today feel that home mortgage rates will hover between 5.5% and 6.5% for a long time going forward.

The contrarian thing to do is to take advantage of the current market because there are fewer buyers out there looking to buy homes right now. If interest rates do fall some, competition will only increase, driving prices higher. Also, at present, many lenders are offering special programs that let a borrower refinance at little or no lender costs if,

Renting is just not a good option, if you can afford to buy. Paying rent is simply creating wealth for someone else … your landlord. Paying rent is putting out dollars every month that go away and build absolutely no equity or wealth for you. Yes, prices are higher. Yes, interest rates on mortgages are higher. But home ownership is still how the greatest wealth is created in America for most families.

“Real Estate has been the best performing investment in modern history… with a set of unfair advantages that are completely unheard of with other investments.” Motley Fool

I concur! Now is the time to act. Don’t be caught sitting on the fence… waiting and hoping. Homeownership is a critical part of our American Dream. Now is the time to act!

has been a Professor of Practice at UNC’s Kenan Flagler Business School where he taught MBAs and undergraduates for more than 20 years. Mr. Block is also an Adjunct Professor at Duke’s Fuqua Business School where he co-teaches MBAs and has done so for the past six years. In addition, Mr. Block is the founding partner of Block & Associates Realty with offices in The Triangle and The Sandhills areas of North Carolina.

" Paying rent is putting out dollars every month that go away and build absolutely no equity or wealth for you."

SIR,YOU ARE A KA

Who is one KA you still talk to weekly daily, and why?

There is not a specific KA brother that I speak to on a regular basis, there are several. The bond created through the brotherhood and the convenience of social media helps me to be connected to them as I would with any other member of my family for social events, business, and talk about our past and present experiences, allowing me to share my life with peopleI care for.

Luis J. Garcia

DELTA GAMMA–OLD DOMINION ’ 76

• Chartering Number I, Epsilon Eta–Virginia Tech

• Chartering President, Orlando Alumni Chapter

• Current Treasurer, Orlando Alumni Chapter

You’ve been involved with Delta Gamma (Old Dominion) and starting Epsilon Eta (Virginia Tech)—how important were these experiences?

Being involved in both of those chapters gave me the confidence to follow my dreams and achieve my goals. You will always have a brother to back you up in all your endeavors should you need it. This has stayed with me throughout my life, and I am always available to help a brother in any way I can.

What do you enjoy doing outside of KA?

I am a soccer fanatic, I follow Liverpool, Go Reds!, Brazil, and of course the USA. I play

I had not seen in a long time, but the best part was that the actual little brothers of the ODU KAs, whom I recruited for Epsilon Eta, were there. I took some old photos, and their kids had a blast looking at their fathers.

Share your experience going to college in Virginia, and how KA assisted you.

in a coed soccer league. I am very active. I like to go kayaking, power walking, pickleball, tennis, hiking, music concerts (mainly Country & Bluegrass, but I like all kinds of music), camping, going to the beach, lake, or river.

What is a unique memory from being an Active Member?

There were so many that it is hard to pick one, but the most recent one is when I went to Blacksburg to watch a Virginia Tech vs Old Dominion University football game. It was unforgettable. I saw brothers from VT & ODU that

I was born in Radford, Virginia. My father is a graduate from Virginia Tech. I grew up in Venezuela, and as I graduated from high school there, I got a full scholarship to study in the U.S. I went to Dallas, Texas, to study English and applied to go to VT, but my grades were not that great, so VT told me to go to ODU and, if I keep my grades up, I will be accepted. I did not have anyone in the U.S., and one day I decided to go to different fraternities for rush week. KA felt so in tune with me, and the brothers were so welcoming that my choice was made. The brothers helped me through school and with my English. I was often called the most southern of them all!

“ You will always have a brother to back you up in all your endeavors should you need it."

BACKSTORY

Dr. Charles Holmes Herty, Sr. (Gamma–Georgia 1884), began the University of Georgia football program in 1890 and coached its first two games in 1892. When that team was formed, it was the first of its kind in the region. UGA played first on January 30, 1892, against Mercer University in Athens and won 50–0. The team lost its second game to Auburn 10–0, establishing the “deep south’s oldest rivalry.” UGA finished the season at .500. The first football field would eventually be named Herty Field, but the area became a parking lot in the 1940s. More recently, in 1999, it was converted to a green space. Herty had a distinguished career, noted in the Kappa Alpha Journal and across the country for his academics, scientific prowess, and entrepreneurial spirit. Among many additional attributed successes, he was instrumental in the creation of the National Institutes of Health.

KAs on the Team:

Frank J. "Si" Herty (Gamma–Georgia 1890), the coach's cousin, served as the captain of the team—featured in the team photo. It appears that two other KAs played on that team: Henry Crowley Brown (Gamma–Georgia 1891) and Julian Reece Lane (Gamma–Georgia 1892).