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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.

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