Cross & Crescent-Winter 2024

FOREWORD: EDITOR’S NOTE

Working at Lambda Chi Alpha for now just over five years, I have seen my fair share of incredible stories. From Medal of Honor recipients to entertainers on the big screen, our Members have certainly accomplished impressive feats.

But as I look back on the stories I’ve been fortunate enough to tell or be a part of, the ones that stick with me are those of service. Whether a large act such as a Brother donating bone marrow for someone he has never met or the small acts of everyday, these stories build the foundation of what Lambda Chi Alpha stands for.

Throughout this servant leadership issue, we will learn about Brother Rich Flood’s journey to give back to the people of New York through his work at the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation and pay tribute to Brother Howard “Howie” Brightman and his countless hours of service to Lambda Chi Alpha.

You’ll hear from Chief Operating Officer Justin Fisher on how the servant leadership he witnesses from our Members inspires him. You’ll learn about Brother Chaz Contag and how he was one of just a few students chosen to present groundbreaking climate change research at a case competition in Scotland. You’ll be inspired by the heroic feats of Captain Larry L. Taylor that earned him a Medal of Honor.

We hope you enjoy this issue and would love to hear from you. Any story ideas or feedback can be sent to marketing@lambdachi.org.

TAD LICHTENAUER Chief Marketing Officer

TAYLOR WEITZER

Editor, Marketing & Brand Manager

MACKENZIE COOLEY

Multimedia Content Specialist

GRANT GILBERT Graphic Designer

Continue to grow, continue to be of service to your fellow human being, and continue to lead with the teachings of the Fraternity behind you.

Fraternally,

Taylor Weitzer, Managing Editor

LAMBDA CHI ALPHA: A BLUE ZONE COMMUNITY

By Troy Medley, CEO

I love Lambda Chi Alpha and am continuously amazed that I get to serve as CEO. The best part of this amazing job is traveling around the country and meeting Brothers who live extraordinary lives. When I hear these men speak, I often think about how lucky we are to be part of a fraternal organization crafted specifically for us. Ours is a brave Fraternity unafraid to challenge the status quo, one designed to meet the needs of every man. Lambda Chi Alpha is a guiding force, helping men uncover the secrets to living lives brimming with love, purpose, and happiness.

The stories I hear our Brothers tell echo a resounding truth: the guiding force of Lambda Chi Alpha is needed now more than ever. Today's man faces challenges evident in alarming statistics. Over a million fewer men are attending

college since 2015, comprising less than 37% of undergraduate enrollment. There is a decline in pursuing advanced degrees, and a concerning 30% of freshman boys leaving after the first semester. In a world where many seem to falter, Lambda Chi Alpha stands as a beacon of success, steadily growing for five consecutive years, improving academically across the country, and saving lives through partnerships with The American Red Cross and Movember.

What is different about Lambda Chi Alpha? Why are we growing in a declining market? The answer came to me while watching a documentary on Netflix about Blue Zones, the seven locations in the world with the highest concentration of people living to be 100. These locations, though scattered across the globe, share many similar characteristics. In scrutinizing the critical factors, I saw Lambda Chi Alpha mirrored in the most crucial three.

The most important factor is the idea of belonging felt within the Blue Zone communities. The people know they are seen, valued for who they are, and loved. Belonging forms the foundation of their lives. At its core, Lambda Chi Alpha provides men with the essential elements needed for a happy life: a tribe of their own, a chosen family, and friends closer than Brothers. With belonging, all else becomes possible.

The second characteristic of Blue Zones is that their people live with great individual purpose. They know who they are and the value they bring to their community. They know their strengths and weaknesses and have designed their work around doing what they love. To lead a long and extraordinary life, you must do what you were designed to do! Lambda Chi Alpha is dedicated to showing you how it has invested $2,000,000 made possible by generous contributions from Alumni. This has led to the creation of tools that help men increase their self-knowledge and ability to improve themselves.

The third defining characteristic of Blue Zones that correlates to the Lambda Chi Alpha experience is each of these communities share a spiritual component tied to a common set of values that causes individuals to focus on others rather than themselves. It turns out that people who live to 100 are more concerned about serving than being served. Here, Lambda Chi Alpha excels! When Lambda Chi Alpha is done right, the fraternal experience transforms a man from the inside out and inspires him to great acts of service, to be the man who makes a difference, to be the man who fights for what is right.

“At its core, Lambda Chi Alpha provides men with the essential elements needed for a happy life."

As I delve deeper into the essence of Lambda Chi Alpha and its many Brothers, I see the potential for us to become a Blue Zone community. Our Fraternity values belonging over status, guides men in self-discovery, helps them define their purpose, and incorporates the values taught in our Initiation Ritual into their daily lives. While I can't predict if we'll all live to 100, I do know that living this way ensures our lives will be happy, abundant, and consequential. Isn't this the reason we exist?

Ideal Man 1: Developing Myself

New Members proactively follow a structured onboarding experience that explores what it means to be "a man of character." Through the lens of the Seven Core Values, and practical scenarios which require decision points and choices, new Members are prepared for Chapter and student life.

Ideal Man 2: Developing My Relationships

Members develop self-awareness by learning how they relate to others, and what it means to be a Brother and a productive team player. Brothers also learn about different Officer positions.

Stead Leadership College Tracks:

• Leading Teams (Chapter President)

Lambda Chi Academy is our one-stop-shop for equipping Members and officers with lifelong character and skills. From learning about our values and what it truly means to be a Brother, to developing the skills to lead a team. The Academy offers a host of resources that are bite-sized, relevant, and applicable to real-life situations. By focusing on what works, the Academy represents the very best in learning, ensuring that Members are prepared to succeed both within the fraternity and beyond. Whether it's through leadership workshops, personal development seminars, or networking opportunities, the Academy provides a comprehensive and practical approach to learning that sets Lambda Chi Alpha apart.

To learn more, visit: https://www.lambdachi.org/lambdachiacademy/

• Recruiting & Sales (Recruitment Chair)

• Learning & Development (Fraternity Educator)

• Essentials in Finance (Chapter Treasurer)

• Social Responsibility (Philanthropy Chair)

Leaderboard Description:

Learning should be fun, and that's why Brothers earn points every time they learn. And points mean prizes. From exchanging points for individual merchandise to climbing the leader board and aiming for a Chapter prize, Brothers and Chapters will be rewarded and recognized.

Rich Flood (University of Miami ‘97) was named a Knight in the Ordres national du Mérite (National Order of Merit) from France in October, for his success with a $100M capital campaign and other projects for the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation.

The highest honor a non-French national can receive, the National Order of Merit is awarded by the President of France to individuals who have significantly impacted France and the French people. Since 2015, Flood has served as the Chief Advancement Officer for the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, the nonprofit organization that collaborates with the National Park Service to restore and preserve these beloved monuments. The organization’s CEO recruited Flood to lead the fundraising initiative for the Statue of Liberty Museum, which presents the story of the statue’s history and relevance to millions of visitors annually.

Working closely with campaign chairperson, Diane von Furstenburg, Flood developed critical relationships with major donors and established a collaborative partnership with the French Government that continues year after year following the museum’s 2019 opening.

By Mackenzie Cooley Multimedia Content Specialist

The 26,000 square-foot museum is a destination. Visitors may embark on a breathtaking, virtual fly-through of the Statue’s interior, introducing them to the story of Lady Liberty and all she represents, by reliving the making of the monument through a series of multimedia displays or adding their portrait to the Becoming Liberty collage and getting an up-close view of Liberty’s most recognizable feature – her torch.

Upon graduation, Flood started his career as a media buyer for TBWA/Chiat/Day. He worked on some of their largest accounts like Apple, Nissan Infiniti, Kmart and others. Not long after, the events of 9/11 shook the American people to their core. Flood stood by and watched most of it unfold from his office window in Midtown.

“As a lifelong New Yorker, this had a tremendous impact on me, like many others. I felt the need to think about what my contribution was going to be,” Flood said.

Inspired by the American Red Cross 9/11 recovery efforts, he decided he wanted to refocus on work that he found more personally fulfilling and impactful. Flood focused his next career move on understanding the intricacies of the nonprofit world. Flood moved on from agency life and accepted an offer at the Whitney Museum of American Art. This was the perfect opportunity for him to combine his advertising experience with nonprofit work.

At the time, the Whitney had been trying to expand on the Upper East Side. Design projects, which were part of the expansion plan, were constantly defeated by local opposition, causing a very contentious relationship between the Whitney and its neighbors.

Flood started from the ground up, working in the community to understand the opposition. Although it was a bumpy road, the Whitney eventually received all approvals needed for their expansion. Just as those approvals went through, the Mayor of New York at the time proposed the idea to relocate to New York’s Meatpacking District in the West Village, where the Whitney would become a cultural anchor for a new park in the city. This was too good of an opportunity to pass up, so Flood and his team went for it. They received zero opposition and their relocation moved forward, with the building opening in 2015 at the Highline.

Making a name for himself in the competitive New York nonprofit scene has been a journey for Flood. But his University of Miami days taught him some of the invaluable skills he still uses to this day, namely those that he learned through his Lambda Chi Alpha experience.

Flood had no plans to join a fraternity, though his older Brothers were in one at their respective universities. He noticed how strong of a presence Lambda Chi Alpha had on campus and made the decision to join.

“It was one of the best decisions I ever made,” Flood said.

He felt a part of the Brotherhood and his membership transformed the college experience for him. It taught him to step out of his comfort zone. He was content sitting in the back of the room, but he felt empowered to be able to stand in front of an audience or auditorium, sometimes a hostile one. It gave him the confidence, experience and the encouragement to step forward and try something new, something that has helped him countless times. Through his Lambda Chi Alpha experience, Flood learned the importance of friendship and the willingness to be able to trust someone and build long-lasting relationships, because much of what we all do, personally and professionally, is based on relationships.

The CEO of the Foundation at the time of Flood’s hire was a Lambda Chi Alpha, as well. Although they didn’t make the connection until later professionally, this bond ensured they would have a strong working relationship. Flood had a willingness to step forward and give that challenge a shot, even if it meant going against what he thought would be his reality.

“I never would have associated myself with building museums,” Flood said.

While he never saw himself here, that willingness to give something a shot proved to be successful. Community relations and affairs were new for him when he started at the Whitney, yet he pushed through with this mindset and excelled, gaining approvals never secured.

“Never say no” - a mantra Flood lives by. He may not have had these opportunities if he turned away from a challenge.

“Here I am, leaving a significant footprint on the city of New York, the Whitney and the Statue of Liberty Museum,” Flood said. The National Order of Merit solidified Flood’s footprint on New York City and France. Because of his determination and hard work, The Whitney and Statue of Liberty Museum will continue to inspire millions of people from around the world.

Refinancing with SoFi? It’s a happy journey.

You could be going places—and saving thousands—when you refi your student loans to a lower rate with SoFi at Work. And as a Lambda Chi Alpha Member, you get an exclusive $500 welcome bonus* when you refi, plus access to our platinum customer service. And because we believe refinancing should be uplifting–you won’t pay a single fee.

2024 HIGH ALPHA SUMMIT + NEVILLE ADVISOR'S COLLEGE RECAP

The 2024 High Alpha Summit & Neville Advisor’s College took place January 4-7, 2024, in Indianapolis. Presidents and Advisors were able to network with their colleagues and share experiences with one another. The Presidents learned how to maximize the Lambda Chi Alpha experience through Lambda Chi Academy and become the best leader they can. They left with stronger leadership skills and tools to aid them in successfully leading their Chapter. Advisors developed the tools and gained skills they need to best aid their Presidents and Executive Committee in successfully running a Chapter.

Designing and executing a plan

Leading by example

Setting a Chapter up for financial success

Committing to action

Seeking strategy and support

Investing in their success

THE CHAPTER CHALLENGE DEBUT.

The first-ever Chapter Challenge was unveiled at the 2024 High Alpha Summit & Neville Advisor’s College. The Chapter Challenge is a real-life simulation of what it’s like to run a Chapter.

Presidents worked together to help their “Chapter” maintain their finances, a positive reputation and a successful Brotherhood through immersive game play experience. Each round in the game, teams were faced with external or internal factors that would negatively affect their “Chapter”. Players had to make tough decisions based on what was best for their Chapter and how each player could help, based upon their Officer position.

This was the first of its kind in experimental learning offered to Members of Lambda Chi Alpha and was a huge success.

THE VALIANT STORY OF CAPT. LARRY L. TAYLOR

By Mackenzie Cooley Multimedia Content Specialist

Capt. Larry L. Taylor (University of Tennessee –Knoxville, ‘66) was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Joe Biden in 2023 for his heroic rescue of a four-man Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP) team during the Vietnam War in 1968. Born in Chattanooga, TN, Taylor grew up in a community that valued military service. His family also had a strong tradition of military involvement, with his greatgrandfather, great uncle, father and uncles all in the service.

Taylor joined the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Program while attending the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army Reserve in the U.S. Army and assigned to an armor unit. With some consideration, Taylor decided that he preferred aerial machinery. He later found himself right in the middle of the Vietnam War.

Taylor served in Vietnam from August 1967 to August 1968. He flew some of the first Bell AH1-G Cobra attack helicopters in combat. He flew over 2,000 combat missions, serving with D Troop (Air), 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 1st Infantry Division. He was engaged by enemy fire 340 times and forced down five times. The U.S. Army awarded him at least 50 combat decorations, including the Silver Star 43 Air Medals, a Bronze Star and two Distinguished Flying Crosses. He also received the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star.

His most dangerous and frightening operation, the one he would for which he would receive the Medal of Honor, happened on June 18, 1968. That night, Taylor flew one of two AH-1G Cobra helicopter gunships sent to support a four-man LRRP that was in danger of being overrun.

He and his wingman took off from their Phu Loi base, arriving at the contact site, northeast of Saigon, a few minutes later. Once overhead, he radioed the four soldiers to mark their location with flares.

“It’s difficult to support you because I can’t see you and I can’t see the bad guys. I’m afraid if I start throwing some rockets out here, I’m going to kill one of you all,” he recalled telling them over the radio in an interview with Stars and Stripes Newspaper.

With the illumination from the flares as a reference point, Taylor and his wingman strafed the enemy. Braving intense ground fire, the two Cobra gunships continued to make low-level attack runs for the next 45 minutes.

With both helicopters nearly out of ammunition and the enemy still closing in, Taylor surveyed the escape route the team intended to take and concluded the four Soldiers would be overwhelmed if they tried to reach their evacuation point near the Dong Nai River.

Taylor learned that a plan to rescue the Soldiers with a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter had been canceled because it stood almost no chance of success. Running low on fuel and the patrol team nearly out of ammunition, Taylor decided on a bold and innovative plan to extract the team using his two-man Cobra helicopter, a feat that had never been accomplished or even attempted.

With the four-man LRRP team in such a condition, Lt. Taylor and his air support team were determined not to leave the patrol on the ground, no matter the consequences. Taylor stated that he and his Cobra team could not “sit helplessly by while the LRRPs got massacred.”

Once the LRRP team was safely extracted and dropped off, Lt. Taylor and co-pilot CW2 James Ratliff realized that they were dangerously low on fuel. As reported by Taylor, they had to a make a “25-minute flight on 20 minutes of fuel.”

He directed his wingman to fire his remaining rounds along the eastern flank of the patrol team, then return to base camp. Taylor fired his own remaining rounds along the team’s western flank, using his Cobra’s landing lights to draw the enemy’s attention while the patrol team headed southeast toward a nearby extraction point Taylor had designated.

When the team reached the site, Taylor landed his Cobra under heavy enemy fire, with complete disregard for his personal safety. The patrol team climbed aboard, sitting on the rocket-pods and skids, and Taylor carried them to a safe location before landing them back on the ground.

Taylor’s conspicuous gallantry, his profound concern for his fellow Soldiers, and his intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

“I was doing my job. I knew that if I did not go down and get them, they would not make it,” said Taylor in an interview for Stars and Stripes Newspaper.

Taylor’s journey to receiving the Medal of Honor wasn’t smooth sailing either. As part of the rules for receiving the Medal of Honor, a person’s commanding officer must recommend them for the award. In Taylor’s case, his commander, Gen. Ken Ware, died in battle.

David Hill, one of the of the four LRRPs, and Mike Holden, a family friend of Taylor’s, worked with multiple people and groups to submit Taylor to the Army for this award. Hill, Holden, and others working on the submission struck out twice. After the second attempt, the Army said it would not override the decision unless new or substantiating evidence came to light.

Retired four-star Army Gen. B.B. Bell started working with the team, aiding them in submitting an appeal to the Army Board for the Correction of Military Records or ABCMR. The board rejected the submission, however Hill and the group discovered commanders never interviewed other Soldiers who witnessed the rescue in 1968. That information was included in a third submission, and it worked.

Taylor received a call from President Biden, informing him that he would be the newest Soldier to receive the medal. More than 41 million men and women have served in the U.S. military, and slightly more than 3,500 medals have been awarded. Taylor embodied the military motto - “leave no man behind” - that night in Vietnam.

With the Medal of Honor, Taylor also received the Order of Achievement from the Lambda Chi Alpha General Fraternity in November 2023. The Order of Achievement is an award presented to honor those Brothers who have distinguished themselves by outstanding success in the field of business, industry, the arts, science or other professions. Their accomplishments bring honor to Lambda Chi Alpha and serve as an inspiration to their Brothers.

Alumni and Undergraduate Brothers of EpsilonOmicron Zeta at the University of TennesseeKnoxville held a ceremony at their Chapter house to honor Capt. Taylor and present him with the Order of Achievement. The house's living room was named in his honor, too.

Capt. Taylor passed away on January 28, 2024, at his home in Signal Mountain, TN. As we mourn the loss of Capt. Taylor, we remember who he was and what he stood for:

Loyalty. Duty. Respect. Service and Stewardship. Honor. Integrity. Personal Courage.

Capt. Taylor was a true example of these values. It took courage and strength to save those four men in Vietnam. He could have turned around when he realized how tough the rescue would be, however he remained loyal to those men. He lived a life in pursuit of higher ideals.

Capt. Taylor is everything that it means to be a true hero and a true Brother of Lambda Chi Alpha.

Forever in ZAX.

$96,219 57CHAPTERS

“It is amazing to see that we have increased our Movember involvement this year. In total, we had 58 different teams participate in fundraising. As more Chapters see how much fun Movember events can be, our total will only go up in 2024!”

-Noah Dial, Partnership Engagement Specialist

Movember is the leading charity changing the face of men's health. Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men.

In total, Lambda Chi Alpha Members and friends raised over $96,219 - an increase of over $5,000 from 2022.

• The Zeta-Omicron Zeta at the University of Oregon raised $15,836, receiving first place for the third year in a row.

• The Epsilon-Kappa Zeta at Drexel University came in second, raising $9,834.

• Finally, the Iota-Pi Zeta at Texas Christian University followed at third place with $9,088.

• Luke Portman from the University of Oklahoma raised $7,995 and was the top individual fundraiser.

By Gregory A. Castanias, Wabash College 1987, Grand High Pi

We are, as Members of Lambda Chi Alpha, justifiably proud of our rituals, symbols, and mottoes. Some are secret, others open, but all reflect a set of core values that define us as Members of our Brotherhood, and guide us through our lives.

Our Coat of Arms is rich with open meaning. At the top of our Coat of Arms is the open Latin motto "Per Crucem Crescens." We say it refers to the Cross and Crescent, but its literal Latin translation, it turns out, doesn’t actually have anything to do with a “crescent.” Rather, “crescens” in Latin is a present active participle meaning “growing, arising, increasing, strengthening.” So while we euphemistically say that "Per Crucem Crescens" means “Crescent Through The Cross,” it more literally means something like “Growth Through Challenge and Sacrifice.”

And that might cause the thoughtful Brother of Lambda Chi Alpha to think about the Greek motto that encircles the central part of our Coat of Arms, "χαλεπὰ τὰ καλά." That’s a proverb that appears in three different dialogues found in Plato’s writings— Hippias Major, Cratylus, and Republic. Scholars of Plato’s works translate that expression as “The beautiful things (or the fine things) are difficult.” You might even say that’s saying the same thing as "Per Crucem Crescens", except in Greek.

These were to become critical anchors of our teachings. In 1913, when our “spiritual founder,” John E. “Jack” Mason, wrote a letter to the Boston Assembly of the Fraternity proposing to rewrite our Initiation Ritual, he identified several of these principles that guide us to this day: “We want to have a ritual that will mean something to every man admitted to the bond of Lambda Chi Alpha ... a ritual so impressive that we shall remember it in after life, at times when we shall stand in need of it.”

Mason further wrote that the new ritual would join “the doctrine of work and the doctrine of character,” that “[t]he Cross in front of the Crescent is symbolic of sacrifice or martyrdom for the attainment of the ideal,” that “[t]he Lamp symbolizes the light of Lambda Chi Alpha, leading her sons on to high achievements,” and that the light would “be with you always, wherever you go, whatever you do ... may it lighten your way in moments of perplexity, cheer you in moments of despondency, ever lead you on to a better life,” and so on.

And this was his vision before he even had the approval of our Fraternity to rewrite our Initiation Ritual!

Lifelong growth through challenges and struggles. These are how we achieve the beautiful things. But the process by which we get to these fine and beautiful things may not be fine or beautiful. We may fall into error along the way. Still, we are measured not by our errors, but how we respond to them. The late Congressman John L. Lewis, echoing the words of Proverbs 24:16, famously said: “Courage is not how a man stands or falls, but how he gets back up again.”

Our Fraternity’s Committee on Emblems and Rituals was recently brought face to face with an error—a pretty important one, at that. For 75 years—since 1948—we have been instructing our newly initiated Brothers with an incorrect translation of what is arguably the single most significant secret in our Initiation Ritual. Originally, we did not write down these secret translations, but instead relied on the oral tradition of passing them down. In 1948 (two years after Jack Mason died), our Fraternity hurriedly put an erroneous translation into a written guide for Traveling Secretaries (today’s Chapter Support Specialists). That erroneous translation was then perpetuated into multiple printings of High Phi manuals, and generations of Lambda Chi Alpha Brothers have been instructed as to a particular meaning for the “Lambda” of Lambda Chi Alpha. But that meaning has not been quite right.

How did this happen? The original, accurate word, which has been confirmed both by Classics scholars who are also initiated Brothers and by a thorough search of the Fraternity’s archival materials dating back to the 1920s and earlier, sounds phonetically very close to the erroneous one. The erroneous word has a somewhat similar meaning, too, but it is profoundly incorrect as a pedagogical (instructive) matter.

So what were we to do? If there is any lesson that Brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha hold close, it is that perfect growth is to be our lifelong goal. And that means even longstanding errors can—indeed, must—be corrected, so that we can all be made better. So, at the request of Mike Brady, the Grand High Phi and Chair of the Committee on Emblems and Ritual, I have issued an interpretive ruling in my capacity as the Grand High Pi, establishing that the Office of Administration should instruct the Chapters to initiate our new Brothers going forward using the original, correct meaning for Lambda. Thus, what was once murky and obscure has now been clarified and will serve as a beacon for all of us to follow.

In helping us to identify and correct this historical and translation error, our Fraternity owes a debt of gratitude to three of our own, each of them scholars in these areas: John E. Fischer (AlphaKappa 664), Professor of Classics Emeritus; Jeremy Hartnett (Alpha-Kappa 1119), Professor of Classics and Charles D. and Elizabeth S. LaFollette, Distinguished Professors in the Humanities; and Derek Nelson (Alpha-Kappa 1182), Professor of Religion and Stephen S. Bowen, Professor of the Liberal Arts, all at Wabash College. In addition to their lifelong academic pursuits, Professor Fischer served for many years, and Professor Nelson currently serves, as the High Pi of Alpha-Kappa Zeta at Wabash College. We are grateful for their scholarship, their service, and their guiding wisdom.

Secure Your Legacy and the Future of Brotherhood.

As a Lambda Chi Alpha Active or Alumni Member, you can receive a 15% discount on an Estate Plan with Trust & Will and address this often overlooked area of your financial plan.

With an Estate Plan you can:

Leave special gifts to foundations that made an impact on you

Nominate guardians for your children or pets

Decide who will handle your affairs

Determine how your assets will be distributed

Designate health care agents

Specify your final arrangements

Gain peace of mind knowing you have a plan in place

Leave your legacy in Brotherhood with a gift to the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation.

trustandwill.com/lambdachialpha

Visit trustandwill.com/lambdachialpha or scan to get started

Want to discuss your giving options? Contact Nick Bratvold, Vice President-Philanthropy, at nbratvold@lambdachi.org.

Grand High Alpha Award:

Recognizes Chapters that have maintained a superior level of operations for at least three consecutive years.

Winner: University of Arkansas

Phoenix Award:

Presented to a Chapter that has made unusually positive strides in overall Chapter operations for at least three consecutive years, taking into consideration improved Membership size, depth of programming, and risk-free operations.

Winner: Tarleton State University

Bruce H. McIntosh Standards for Chapter Excellence Award:

Recognizes Chapters who effectively use the standards for Chapter excellence program to continuously improve their fraternal experience.

Winners: Union University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, & University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Rev. S. George “Doc” Dirghalli Scholastic Programming Award:

Recognizes Chapters that have developed an outstanding program resulting in superior academic achievement of its Members.

Winner: Baldwin Wallace University, University of Florida, & Missouri University of Science & Technology

We extend our appreciation to all the Chapters honored at this year's High Alpha Summit Neville Advisor's College for their exemplary achievements. The dedication demonstrated by these Chapters in fostering growth, education, leadership, and learning within Lambda Chi Alpha has been duly noted, reflecting their unwavering commitment to their respective Chapters and the organization as a whole.

Tozier Brown Public Affairs Award:

Recognizes Chapters with the most outstanding programs of community service and philanthropic activities.

Winner: South Dakota School of Mines & & Technology, University of Maryland-College Park, & University of South Dakota

Warren A. Cole Recruitment Program Award:

Recognizes Chapters that have developed and implemented well-organized and effective recruitment programs.

Winner: University of Arkansas, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, & University of Tulsa

Lewis A. Plourd Fraternity Education Award:

Presented to Chapters whose outstanding fraternity education program includes the entire Membership, involves Alumni, and incorporates a highly effective big Brother program.

Winners: University of Florida, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, & University of Tusla

LAMBDA CHI ALPHA'S GUIDING PRINCIPLE

By Justin Fisher, Chief Operating Officer

In today's world, self-promotion dominates the scene. From influencers to the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) phenomenon, it's hard to escape the constant chatter about what's trending, who's got clout, and whose personal brand reigns supreme. The allure of fame and fortune makes self-promotion seem like the ultimate goal for many. However, amidst this culture of self-centeredness, there exists a stark contrast in Lambda Chi Alpha—a fraternity that champions the idea of servant leadership.

Servant leadership isn't a new concept; it's been around since the 1970s. At its core, it's about leaders serving the people they lead, rather than the other way around. This principle is evident in the lives of historical figures like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mother Teresa, and our exemplar, Jesus Christ. They prioritized the needs of others over their own.

In Lambda Chi Alpha, servant leadership isn't just a buzzword; it's a way of life. Brothers embody this principle by supporting each other, contributing to their communities, and striving for a higher purpose. They understand that true success comes from making a positive impact on others, not from personal accolades or material wealth.

During the 2024 High Alpha Summit and Neville Advisor’s College in January, our Fraternity maintained its tradition of hosting a blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. As I participated in the blood donation process, I noticed a fellow Brother who appeared visibly anxious about needles and the procedure, to the point where he was breathing into a paper bag to calm his anxiety. Despite his evident discomfort and the staff asking him multiple times if he had changed his mind, he remained resolute in his decision to donate. His determination and selflessness struck me profoundly. Despite facing personal unease, he chose to prioritize the opportunity to help others, showcasing the true spirit of Lambda Chi Alpha. His actions reminded me of the essence of our Fraternity—placing the needs of others above our own, even when it involves personal sacrifice.

This experience prompted me to reflect on the nature of service and sacrifice. It's easy to offer assistance when there's little personal cost involved, but genuine service often demands stepping out of our comfort zones and facing challenges head-on. Witnessing our Brother's willingness to endure discomfort for the greater good reinforced the values of personal courage and service & stewardship that define our Fraternity. In moments like these, we see the true essence of Lambda Chi Alpha—a Brother who embodies our Fraternity's principles and inspires us all to make a positive impact in the world. His example serves as a reminder of the importance of selflessness and sacrifice in our journey as leaders and servants to others.

Reflecting on my time as an Educational Leadership Consultant (ELC) after graduating from college, I encountered numerous instances of servant leadership that left a lasting impression. For those unfamiliar, the role of an ELC involved traveling to around 25 Chapters each fall and spring, spending three days with each, and living on the road for eight months out of the year. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to connect with Brothers from all corners of North America and witness firsthand the power of servant leadership in action.

One particular example that stands out is an Advisor I met who lived over an hour away from the Chapter he served. Despite the considerable distance, he faithfully made the journey every week, dedicating hours of his time to support the Chapter's growth and development. This commitment meant sacrificing time with his family and volunteering his time without any compensation or reimbursement. At the time, I recognized the significance of his sacrifice, but it wasn't until I became a parent myself that I fully grasped the true cost of his decision. It was a profound display of dedication to a cause greater than oneself.

In a society grappling with myriad issues, Lambda Chi Alpha can serve as a beacon of hope and unity. Instead of perpetuating divisiveness and selfinterest, what if we shifted our focus to a simple question: "How can we serve?" Our creed speaks to this, “…denoting service, sacrifice, and even suffering and humiliation before the world, bravely endured if need be, in following that ideal.”

With over 200,000 living Alumni, it's undeniable that we represent a diverse spectrum of perspectives and opinions. Yet, within this diversity lies a shared commitment—we've all taken the same oaths and embrace the same Core Values. I believe that the examples of servant leadership I've witnessed illustrate that it doesn't always require monumental sacrifices but can begin with a single choice to put others before oneself. By embodying the principles of servant leadership in our own lives, we have the power to inspire others to follow suit. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, transforming our fraternity and our communities for the better.

Campaigning for Change

By Dan Hartmann, President & CEO, Educational Foundation

Brothers and Friends,

The Brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha are no strangers to sacrifice and service. Consider the 310,731 men (and counting) who have committed to our Fraternal Bond during our 115-year history— sacrifice and service were necessary to build such a legacy, and “Naught Without Labor,” as our open motto attests.

Men who live by this motto understand that anything worth having is achieved through hard work and perseverance. These men exude a special hope; they envision a brighter future, a thriving community, an advanced society where more people live in abundance versus scarcity.

I know our Brothers share this hope, because I see how they sacrifice and serve. They live with purpose, planting the seed of hope knowing they may never benefit from the fruit it will produce. As Brothers in the Bond of Lambda Chi Alpha, we know the importance of planting seeds of hope. We were instructed to do so during our first Initiation Ritual, and our teachings, principles, and ideals have remained the same for 115 years.

In 2020, our Educational Foundation, the largest public charity dedicated to supporting the mission of Lambda Chi Alpha and all its Members, embarked on the Seed Capital campaign. The purpose of the campaign was to raise $3M in new major gifts to directly invest in the Fraternity’s new initiatives and reinvented model of support.

The campaign far surpassed its goal, with a total of $13.5M raised between 2020-2023 from generous donors who want to see Lambda Chi Alpha as a force for good in the world. The fundraising effort resulted in $7.2M of grants and direct support to reposition, reinvent, and reinforce our Fraternity experience. The Seed Capital campaign provided hope during an uncertain time for humanity. The men who answered our call had hope that we can thrive despite adversity and hope for the future of our Brotherhood.

Perhaps there is no greater sacrifice and sign of hope than building a bridge that you may never use or planting a seed knowing you may never see its growth. Lambda Chi Alpha provides our Brothers with the tools they need to be future bridge builders and seed planters, cultivating and growing men with purpose. Central to this purpose is sacrifice and service. I am grateful for the many Brothers who have come before. It is our responsibility to ensure their seeds of hope yield 100-fold.

2020-2023

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: $2.9M

• High Alpha Summit

• Neville Advisor's College

• Stead Leadership Seminar

• Facilitator Certification

• Stead Leadership College

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: $2.6M

• Chapter Support Program

• Health & Wellness Program

• Ideal Man Member Education Program

• Education Housing Grants

• Lambda Chi Academy

DIRECT SUPPORT & RESEARCH: $1.7M

• Academic Scholarships

• Conference Scholarships

• Study Abroad Scholarships

• Emergency and Disaster Relief Grants

• Member and Industry Research

14,000

• Member Initiations: 14,025

• Program Participants: 6,200+

• Conference Attendees: 2,300+

• Scholarship Recipients: 500+

• Certifications Earned: 350+

Members IMPACTED

IMPACT: MEMBER EXPERIENCES

Jonah Mudse

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 2022 Student Advisory Committee 2020-2021

Jonah earned the Leading Teams badge through Stead Leadership College (SLC). He was subsequently selected for an internship with IBM, where he earned four additional, internal certifications

Reflecting upon IBM’s user experience, interface, and learning style compared to SLC, Mudse shared that the only noticeable difference was in the content itself.

Jonah is now a Product Manager at IBM.

Mason Montgomery

Butler University 2022 Student Advisory Committee 2020-2021

Another pilot tester, Mason earned the Essentials of Finance badge. As an honors student, he found the content easy to navigate but was surprised by its interpersonal dimensions.

For Mason, SLC increased his ability to synthesize and communicate core financial details, building his confidence during his internship at Valeo Financial.

Mason is a financial analyst with Kittle Property Group.

Learning Through Expereience

by Nick Bratvold, Vice President-Philanthropy, Educational Foundation

Last year marked the 300th birthday of Scottish pioneer Adam Smith, widely regarded as the “father of economics.” Throughout 2023, Smith’s alma mater—the University of Glasgow—celebrated his life and career through exhibitions, lectures, and published work.

As part of the tercentenary celebration, the Adam Smith School of Business hosted an economic case competition, inviting students to propose innovative solutions to the global climate crisis. The competition would bring together students from across the world to share and defend their proposals. Among those invited was Chaz Contag, a Lambda Chi Alpha Member from the University of Denver.

Not yet into his sophomore year, Contag was one of the only non-MBA students to be selected to compete. Still, he lacked the funds to make the hop across the pond and requested support from his Chapter’s scholarship committee, chaired by long-time Chapter advisor and former chair of the Grand High Zeta, Drew Hunter (Denver ’84).

“When Chaz approached me about his opportunity to participate in an international economic competition, I was immediately intrigued,” reMembers Hunter. “This is exactly what our endowment is meant to do and, after interviewing Chaz, I was instantly sold by his enthusiasm and drive to succeed. My only caveat was that he shared his experience upon his return.”

With Hunter’s encouragement and scholarship support from his Chapter’s endowment, Contag had all he needed to fly to Glasgow.

“The most challenging aspect of the conference was preparing a presentation with people I didn’t have the opportunity to practice with,” reflected Contag. “The first time we were all together was the morning of the presentation!”

For their part in the competition, Contag and his team presented a cap-and-trade model where carbon credits follow the market price. In this model, companies with carbon neutrality are rewarded while those who are high emitting are penalized. His teammates discussed the economic implications as Contag largely focused on the environmental impact of this model.

The experience was deeply memorable and impactful, reMembers Contag.

“We heard distinguished individuals debate the topics we researched,” said Contag. “It was surreal to meet a member of parliament and discuss The Future of the Commons, which I had read just months prior.”

After four days together, it was validating—but also shocking—for Contag and his teammates to learn they had placed second overall.

“We were all excited to place second, especially given the circumstances of our tight travel and preparation window,” said Contag. “There was a celebration after with a traditional Scottish Ceilidh dance and champagne.”

With the competition behind him, Contag’s journey through Scotland continued northwest to Fort William to climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. Despite the rain and gusting winds, he hiked Coire Leis and camped in Charles Inglis Hut. Before his train ride back, Contag even had the opportunity to cool off in a small glacial lake.

Hardly halfway through his undergraduate career, Contag is already an avid supporter of studying abroad.

“It provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the environment,” shared Contag. “The depth gained by surrounding and immersing yourself in new cultures is unrivaled.”

Glasgow marked Contag’s second trip aboard. The winter prior, Contag spent two weeks in South Africa, between Cape Town, Cape Horn, Stellenbosch, Johannesburg, and other locations.

“In South Africa, we examined the implications of Apartheid, and saw where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet,” recalled Contag. “We explored beautiful wineries and learned about water access and purification. We discussed the implications of the diamond industry and the ethics of the game reserves and wildlife economy. It was truly a trip of a lifetime.”

During his time in South Africa, Contag also researched and presented on the restoration of the fynbos biome, an ecosystem unique to South Africa endangered by urban sprawl and development. Here, Contag investigated the economic services provided by the system, including clean air and water, fertile soil for crop production, pollination, and flood control—a value of more than $43 million to the local ecosystem.

Already, Contag has found commonalities between his experiences abroad and within Lambda Chi Alpha.

“Experiential learning is my favorite way to learn, and being in new areas while doing that learning is an amazing opportunity,” said Contag. “It’s very similar to Lambda Chi, where I’m also surrounded by a community of people who push me to be academically successful, socially connected, and philanthropically generous.”

Upon returning to Denver, Contag was nominated to serve as High Iota (Risk Manager), deepening his responsibilities within his Chapter and relationships with his institution. Contag plans to graduate in the spring of 2026, majoring in environment science and international studies, with minors in sustainability and Spanish. Meanwhile, he continues to work for a Denver-based law firm as a legal research analyst, furthering his dreams of attending law school after graduation.

The Denver University (Alpha-Pi Zeta) Endowment was created in 1985 by recent graduates and Alumni as an independent foundation, providing need-based and leadership-oriented scholarships to deserving undergraduates. In 2016, the fund was transferred to the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation to ensure its longevity and has, since that time, awarded more than $50,000 in meritand needs-based scholarships. This fund is one of more than 80 endowments held by the Educational Foundation that benefits undergraduate Lambda Chi Alpha Members.

FOUNDERS' DAY CHALLENGE 2023

$850,000 TOTAL RAISED

Thank you so much to our Brothers and friends who celebrated 114 years of Lambda Chi Alpha by donating to the Founders’ Day Challenge! Your contributions are invested in lifechanging programs and opportunities that equip and inspire our Brothers to be leaders and philanthropists in the world.

Introduced in 2016 as the Day of Giving, this annual fundraising event rallies undergraduate Members, Alumni, and friends of the fraternity in support of Lambda Chi Alpha. Since its inception, donors have contributed more than $4.6 million to this fundraising campaign, providing critical funding for member support and educational programs.

In order to continue funding the educational initiatives of the Fraternity at 100% and invest in the next generation of Members, we ask Brothers and friends to support the Founders' Day Challenge every year.

2,615DONORS

Every dollar raised supports Brothers by providing educational conferences, training programs, scholarships, Chapter support, and tools to succeed in college and beyond.

You can always support Lambda Chi Alpha by giving to the Educational Foundation any day of the year! Visit lambdachifoundation.org to learn more about how you can impact our Brotherhood.

190Chapters

292AMBASSADORS

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO VOLUNTEERED THEIR TIME TO SUPPORT OUR CAMPAIGN!

AMBASSADORS

PAUL AINSWORTH ∙ SUZANNE ALEXANDER ∙ BOB ALSOBROOK ∙ BRUCE ANDREAS ∙ JESSIE ASHTON ∙ BEN AXEL ∙ STEVE BACKER ∙

MARK BACKES ∙ AVERY BAKER ∙ DR. ELGAN BAKER ∙ AUSTIN BARNES ∙ BRAD BARRETT ∙ GREGG BEHRENS ∙ LENNY BENDO ∙ DIRK

BENNETT ∙ ALEX BIRLE ∙ WILLIAM BLACK ∙ DARIN BODIN ∙ ROBERT BONAGURIO ∙ FERRIS BOND ∙ BRANDAN BONDS ∙ JACK BRANCH

∙ NICK BRATVOLD ∙ BILL BRICHTA ∙ LARRY BRINKLEY ∙ JAMES BRONSON ∙ DOUG BROOKS ∙ CHRISTIAN BROUCQSAULT ∙ BLAKE

BROWN ∙ WILL BROWN ∙ BLAIR BUDLONG ∙ JEFFREY BURGAN ∙ PAUL BURNETT ∙ JOHN BURNS ∙ JACK BURRELL ∙ IAN CARROLL ∙

RICK CASAZZA ∙ GREG CASTANIAS ∙ GREGORY CASTANIAS ∙ MEL CHAPMAN ∙ COLIN CHATTO ∙ LYNN CHIPPERFIELD ∙ CHAD CLINE ∙

CHRISTIAN COGER ∙ JOHN COLE ∙ MITCH CONDON ∙ NEAL CONOVER ∙ MACKENZIE COOLEY ∙ JOSEPH CORIGLIANO ∙ MIKE COVERT ∙

STEELE CRAVER ∙ MATTHEW CRON ∙ BRYCE CROSBY ∙ J. VANN CUNNINGHAM ∙ NICHOLAS DAMIANO ∙ NICK DAMIANO ∙ JOHN DANIELS

∙ KENNETH DETLET ∙ MICHAEL DEWITT ∙ NOAH DIAL ∙ NICK DIBARTOLO ∙ JOE DIBENEDETTO ∙ TRACY DILLARD ∙ ALEXANDER DIMON

∙ KEITH DIXON ∙ DAVE DOBOS ∙ ALAN DORWARD ∙ TIMOTHY DUNNE ∙ DARREN DUPRIEST ∙ CHARLIE ESTERLINE ∙ DONALD EUSTON

∙ ALEJANDRO FARIAS ∙ ANDREW FEUCHTER ∙ AARON FIESELER ∙ CRISWELL FIORDALIS ∙ JUSTIN FISHER ∙ DAVE FRANKLIN ∙ ANDY FRANKS ∙ DANIEL FULLER ∙ EDUARDO GARCIA ∙ BO GEBBIE ∙ DAN GESEK ∙ JIM GHRIST ∙ GRANT GILBERT ∙ ALYSSA GILLES ∙ JB GLASS ∙ AARON GOMEZTREJO ∙ NATHAN GRAY ∙ BLAKE GREENE ∙ WALTER GREER ∙ ROY GREGG ∙ NEPTUNE GREY ∙ JERRY HALLETT

∙ SHAWN HARMER ∙ DAN HARTMANN ∙ GEORGE HAWKINS ∙ JACOB HENNEKE ∙ ONTERIOUS HILL ∙ TRAVIS HILL ∙ EMMA HOCK ∙ WILL HONES ∙ ALLEN HORTON ∙ SHELBY HOWARD ∙ BRAD HUDSON ∙ GRAYTON HUDSON ∙ WES HUDSON ∙ WESLEY HUDSON ∙ MARK HULIT

∙ JONATHAN HUNN ∙ ANQUEYETTE JACKSON ∙ SCOTT JACKSON ∙ JIM JONES ∙ FRED KAM ∙ MARCUS KAMMRATH ∙ BRETT KASHANITZ

∙ JOHN KAY ∙ HANNAH KEELER ∙ WAYNE KLASING ∙ KATIE KOWALSKI ∙ TAYLOR KRIVAS ∙ RUSSELL LA FORTE ∙ KEVIN LACY ∙ GREG

LAGANA ∙ WING LAM ∙ BOB LAMBERT ∙ JAKE LATHRAM ∙ TOM LAWSON ∙ WILLIAM LEDESMA ∙ HARRY LEE ∙ WILLIAM LEE ∙ BEN LEWIS

∙ JASON LIBBY ∙ TAD LICHTENAUER ∙ ANTHONY LINDER ∙ RICK LINDER ∙ IAN LINDSAY ∙ STEVE LUBAHN ∙ ALEXANDER LUDERS ∙ MATTHEW LUEBBERS ∙ AUSTIN LYNCH ∙ DREW LYNCH ∙ GREGORY MAILLOUX ∙ MICHAEL MALTER ∙ DANIEL MANIA ∙ LARRY MANSFIELD ∙ ALEX MARTENS ∙ JC MARTINEZ ∙ MARVIN MAST ∙ MARK MATTAR ∙ SEAN MCDONALD ∙ MAC MCGEHEE ∙ THOMAS MCGRATH ∙ PATRICK

MCKEE ∙ PHIL MCMANNIS ∙ TOM MCNUTT ∙ BARRON MEADE ∙ TROY MEDLEY ∙ JOHN MENDEZ ∙ CHRIS MEYER ∙ FRANK MICHAEL ∙

JOHN MICHAEL ∙ MAX MICKELSON ∙ BRICE MILLER ∙ HOUSTON MILLS ∙ BRIAN MINIETTA ∙ BRAD MITCHELL ∙ FRANK MORROW ∙ JAKE

MUELLER ∙ KENDALL MURRAY ∙ JACOB NACLERIO ∙ ARTHUR NELSON ∙ CHRIS NELSON ∙ COLIN NELSON-PINKSTON ∙ AIDAN NEVILLE

∙ TREVOR NICHOLAS ∙ MATTHEW NORRIS ∙ ALEX ORTEGA ∙ MATT OSBORN ∙ STEVE OSLICA ∙ WILLIAM OUTLAW ∙ WIL OVERHOLT ∙

JONATHAN PARKE ∙ PHILLIP PARKER ∙ STEVE PATTISON ∙ STEVE PAWLOWSKI ∙ RICHARD PEARSON ∙ STEPHANIE PEOT ∙ JIM PERAKIS

∙ CHARLES PERSING ∙ MARC PLISKO ∙ CHRIS POCKETTE ∙ CARA POOLE ∙ JOHN POSTH ∙ MICHAEL POWELL ∙ MIKE POWELL ∙ MIKE

PRIVETT ∙ RANDY PROUT ∙ GREG RALEIGH ∙ JUSTIN REED ∙ DANNY REILLY ∙ ETHAN REIN ∙ JEFF REITMYER ∙ LOGAN RENEAU ∙ DAVID

RICHARD ∙ WILLIAM RICHEY ∙ MARK RILEY ∙ LUIS RIVERA ∙ TONY ROBINSON ∙ ZACH RODGERS ∙ GREGG ROGERS ∙ JEFF ROGLES ∙ DANIEL ROJAS ∙ KENT ROLLISON ∙ DANIEL ROMAN ∙ RODNEY ROOSEVELT ∙ STEPHEN RYAN ∙ AIDEN SALK ∙ MICHAEL SAUNDERS ∙ AL SAYLOR ∙ BRENDEN SCHAEFFER ∙ GARY SCHIMMEL ∙ DOUG SCHMIDT ∙ JACK SCHMITT ∙ JOHN SCHMITT ∙ WAYNE SCHOLES ∙ JAMES SCHRADER ∙ TOM SCHULTZ ∙ KEVIN SCOLERI ∙ JIM SEITZ ∙ DEAN SELLERS ∙ COURTNEY SELMA ∙ JON SHUMAKER ∙ JD SIENICKI ∙ BRADEN SIM ∙ MARTY SMITH ∙ STEPHEN SMITH ∙ OLIVER SMOOT ∙ CRAIG STEVENS ∙ MARK STITZ ∙ KEITH STUBBLEBINE ∙ JEFF STUERMAN ∙ CONNER STURGEON ∙ FRED SUGGS ∙ SCOTT SWANSON ∙ STEVEN SYRETT ∙ GREG TAPLEY ∙ MARK LEE TAYLOR ∙ SIMON TAYLOR ∙ MARK TEMPLETON ∙ NOAH TERMINELLA ∙ SARAH THIEKE

∙ GARY TILLER ∙ JESSICA TIMMAN ∙ JIM TOTHILL ∙ WILLIAM TRULL

∙ TIM TUCKER ∙ H.B. TURNER ∙ ALAN URBAN ∙ CALEB VALK ∙ DENIS

VAN DOROS ∙ AMANDA VANCE ∙ ARTHUR VEYNA ∙ CHET WEBSTER

∙ TAYLOR WEITZER ∙ RUSTY WHITLEY ∙ TIM WILKINSON ∙ ROBERT WILLIAMS ∙ ZACHARY WILLIAMS ∙ TODD WILLIS ∙ KEVIN WISHER ∙

RON WOLFE ∙ NORMAN WOOD ∙ GREGORY WRIGHT ∙ PETER WRIGHT ∙

NATE ZELINSKE ∙ STEVE ZIELINSKI ∙ MICAH ZILE ∙ NICHOLAS ZUNIGA

SAVE THE DATE

Founders' Day Challenge Leaderboard opens on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 · Challenge winners will be announced on Sunday, November 3, 2024

CHALLENGE COMMITTEE

• Jim Tothill (South Carolina 1971) – Chair

• Nick Damiano (Rollins 2016)

• John Daniels (Drexel 1989)

• Wesley Hudson – Parent

• Noah Dial (Ball State 2023)

• Steve Lubahn (Iowa State 1982)

• Houston Mills (Wabash 1985)

• Justin Reed (Virginia Commonwealth 2014)

• Austin ‘Salty’ Lynch (Arkansas 2014)

• John Schmitt (Eastern Illinois 1976) – Past Chair

2023 CHALLENGE

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR DONORS, STAFF. WE COULD NOT FULFILL

1

PURPLE DIVISION (INACTIVE CHAPTERS) FOR MOST DONORS PARTICIPATING

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY (Sigma-Kappa) 22

IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY (Alpha-Tau) 18

*HM

1

3

UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA (Epsilon-Psi) 22

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY (ZETA-RHO) 6

UNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA (Zeta-Eta) 18

1

PURPLE DIVISION (INACTIVE CHAPTERS) FOR MOST DOLLARS RAISED

WITTENBERG UNIVERSITY (Nu-Zeta) $50,051

TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY (Lambda-Phi) $25,513

*HM

*HM: HONORABLE MENTION

WIDENER UNIVERSITY (Beta-Chi) $32,908

*HM

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY (Sigma-Kappa) $12,546

COE COLLEGE (Zeta-Eta) $15,100

(TIE)

(TIE)

3

(TIE)

(TIE)

FOUNDERS' DAY CHALLENGE 2023

CHALLENGE WINNERS

DONORS, VOLUNTEERS, AMBASSADORS, AND FULFILL OUR MISSION WITHOUT YOU!

GREEN DIVISION (59 OR FEWER ACTIVES) FOR MOST DONORS PARTICIPATING

EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY (Phi-Alpha) 114

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY (Beta-Iota) 55

CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE (Kappa-Mu) 56

MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY (Beta-Psi) 37

DRURY UNIVERSITY (Theta-Sigma) 40

GREEN DIVISION (59 OR FEWER ACTIVES) FOR MOST DOLLARS RAISED

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESNO (Iota-Gamma) $36,058

BRADLEY UNIVERSITY (Kappa-Upsilon) $28,017

UNIVERSITY of IOWA (Iota-Chi) $35,505

CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE (Kappa-Mu) $16,550

UNIVERSITY of WASHINGTON (Alpha-Psi) $15,513

FOUNDERS' DAY CHALLENGE 2023

GOLD DIVISION (60 OR MORE ACTIVES) FOR MOST DONORS PARTICIPATING

AUBURN UNIVERSITY (Omega) 321

University of Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) 128

DREXEL UNIVERSITY (Epsilon-Kappa) 33

UNIVERSITY of ALABAMA (Alpha-Phi) 152

WABASH COLLEGE (Alpha-Kappa) 83

MASON'S CIRCLE CHAPTER WINNERS Chapters With 100% Of Undergraduates Joining With A Gift Of $19.09 Or More

AUBURN UNIVERSITY (Omega)

EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY (Phi-Alpha)

UNIVERSITY of ALABAMA Alpha-Phi)

UNIVERSITY of OREGON (Zeta-Omicron)

CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE (Kappa-Mu)

MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY (Beta-Psi)

UNIVERSITY of CINCINNATI (Gamma-Gamma)

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (Gamma-Delta)

WABASH COLLEGE (Alpha-Kappa)

*HM: HONORABLE

DRURY UNIVERSITY (Theta-Sigma)

TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY (Iota-Phi)

UNIVERSITY of MARYLAND-BALTIMORE COUNTY (Phi-Delta)

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY (Beta-Iota)

GOLD DIVISION (60 OR MORE ACTIVES) FOR MOST DOLLARS RAISED

NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY (Gamma-Upsilon) $52,750

UNIVERSITY of ARKANSAS (Gamma-Chi) $31,311

UNIVERSITY of ALABAMA (Alpha-Psi) $14,926

AUBURN UNIVERSITY (Omega) $42,175

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY (Alpha-Lambda) $25,000

FOUNDER'S DAY CHALLENGE RECOGNIZED BY FOUNDATION FOR FRATERNAL EXCELLENCE

Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation was honored with the 2023 Award of Distinction for Best Development Effort in an Annual Campaign to recognize our 2022 Founders' Day Challenge campaign that raised over $2M for the Fraternity's greatest needs. Thank you to our generous Brothers and friends for helping us have the most successful giving day campaign of all participating fraternal organizations!

Penn State THON

By Mackenzie Cooley Multimedia Content Specialist

“It changes your perspective on things,” Danny Hipschman, a Lambda Chi Alpha Brother at Penn State, recounted about his experiences at THON.

THON is a student-run philanthropy at Penn State University committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer. Each year, more than 16,500 student volunteers participate in the year-long fundraising efforts to benefit their sole beneficiary, Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. THON comes with a lot of planning and participation as they start fundraising the first week of school. Participation and motivation might be hard to come by for some, but the Brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha have it down.

“It's very easy to motivate people to participate because it’s such a good cause,” Hipschman said.

Several fundraisers and events are planned throughout the year with Brothers participating in any way they can. Some volunteer while others choose to fundraise through friends and family using Donor Drive, an online fundraising platform. No matter the way, the Brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha certainly make an impact in their community. This past year alone, they raised $135,000 with their Greek partner. The year-long fundraising efforts round out with a weekend full of events and a dance marathon, typically in February.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” Hipschman said.

In prior years, Hipschman attended the dance marathon, supporting his Brothers who were on the floor and fundraising year-round like the rest. This year, Hipschman is a THON co-chair for Lambda Chi Alpha and gets the special privilege to be on the floor at the Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State’s basketball arena, standing for the full 46 hours. In total, THON has raised $200 million dollars, helping 4,000 families. The philanthropy raised over $15 million last year. Hipschman and his Brothers hope to help exceed that number and continue to raise more and more each year.

To learn more about Thon, go to www.thon.org

If you would like to make a donation to the Penn State Lambda Chi Alpha’s page, click here

Through campus blood drives hosted by Chapters and donations from family and friends of the Fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha saved 1,713 lives (517 units) in 2023!

“My experience with running the blood drive was very easy; Red Cross did a lot for us and just handed us what we needed to do. If we had any questions, Red Cross was there every step of the way.”

-Nolan Petts, High Alpha - University of Southern Indiana

By Mackenzie Cooley Multimedia Content Specialist

Going into 2023, the High Alpha, Grayton Hudson, and High Theta, Jake Connell, at Auburn University made a lofty goal to raise $50,000 for philanthropies during their term. They have since exceeded that goal and raised almost $63,000 for various organizations, but that did not come without a lot of hard work and determination.

Before becoming High Alpha, Hudson noticed a lack of philanthropy in his Chapter.

“We are one of the larger Lambda Chi Alpha Chapters. To have 200 guys and not be able to have a steady philanthropy was kind of embarrassing to me,” Hudson said.

He noted the consistent need for help in the world and with a Chapter full of able-bodied men, they could do a lot of good. Philanthropy, to him, means helping someone out who doesn’t have as many resources and using that spirit of true, perfect Brotherly love to give back to someone who’s less fortunate. He wanted philanthropy to be a big part of what the Chapter did during his term.

“To be in college is a privilege, but to be in Greek Life is an even greater privilege. So I thought, why not do as much as we can to help as many people as we can,” Hudson said.

Hudson knew the perfect Brother to help him achieve this.

On a similar note, Connell has always wanted philanthropy to be a big part of his career. It’s how he feels he can live out his purpose. So, when Hudson told him of the philanthropy plans he had for their Chapter, Connell was propelled to join in on the adventure. The two saw eye to eye and were ready to hit their goal, bring back some events from the past, and hit the ground running.

After attending the High Alpha Summit in January of 2023, Hudson was inspired by other High Alphas and their Chapters’ philanthropy events. Like other Lambda Chi Alpha Chapters, Connell and Hudson landed on the “Watermelon Bash”. The Chapter hadn’t hosted an event like this for over a decade, but the two worked hard to make this happen and it was a success. They raised $2,200 for Movember during their “Watermelon Bash”.

“You know what, $2,200 is still a lot of money. We were happy with it. We saw this year’s event as a foundation for how we can position the Chapter to do this more successfully year after year,” said Hudson.

Connell and Hudson took initiative, created a philanthropy event from scratch, and set their Chapter up for future success.

The Brothers from Auburn University aren’t the only Members who have made a large impact on their community this year. Chapters at Georgia Tech, the University of Idaho, and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville have also had recent philanthropic success.

PHILANTHROPY UPDATE

Georgia Tech

After noticing a lack in availability of lower weight dumbbells at their on-campus gym, Xavier Bardell, High Alpha, and Luke Towery, High Theta, wanted to do something about it. One of the Brothers had a connection at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the Chapter volunteered at concession stands during events in the venue to raise money. They raised over $4,000 and turned it into a new set of dumbbells. This donation has had a positive impact on their campus community.

“A lot of people have been reaching out, some we don’t even know, saying how happy they are to have the extra weight. I’ve overheard people at the gym even, having conversations about having these weights that weren’t there before,” said Towery.

University of Idaho

The Brothers from the University of Idaho raised $8,000 for the Moscow and Kamiah Food Banks this fall. They hosted a multitude of events during their philanthropy week, ending with a charity concert featuring Tony Holiday and Landon Vance.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Our Chapter at the University of TennesseeKnoxville hosted a Watermelon Bust philanthropy week at the beginning of October. The week-long philanthropy event consisted of flag football, a watermelon eating contest, a canned food drive and a few other events. The Brothers raised $9,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank.

Strength through service is one of the main pillars of Lambda Chi Alpha. We celebrate all of our Members making an difference on campus and in their communities.

*Brothers of University of Idaho (Epsilon-Gamma Zeta)

PHI-THETA BROTHER FINALLY INITIATED AFTER 36 YEARS AS AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER

Adapted from a Story by Rusty Weadon.

In the Fall of 1987, Rod Uribe became an Associate Member in Phi-Theta Zeta at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. However, unforeseen family circumstances caused him to leave UNC-Greensboro before he could be initiated. He enrolled at Georgia Southern University to complete his undergraduate degree and be close to his family, but there was no Lambda Chi Chapter at Georgia Southern.

After graduation, Uribe enrolled into the Peace Corps. While stationed abroad, he continued to stay in close contact with the Brothers of Phi-Theta Zeta. Upon conclusion of his Peace Corps service, he extended an invitation to the Brothers to visit him in the Philippines and experience first-hand his transformative work.

Through the years, Rod has remained in close contact with the Brothers of Phi-Theta Zeta as an active supporter of the Chapter and its Members.

by Katie Kowalski, Vice President-Engagement, Educational Foundation

He was instrumental in the 2011 project to make the home of Brother Digger Nelson (PT 80) handicap accessible. Rod and others traveled hundreds of miles to Chattanooga, Tennessee and spent a weekend retrofitting the residence and raised funds to purchase appliances for the Nelson home as well as a handicapped-accessible, wheelchair lift-equipped van. Most recently, Uribe was in attendance at the 40th Anniversary celebration of Phi-Theta Zeta.

On November 17th, 2023, after 36 years, Rod Uribe was initiated into the bond of Brotherhood of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, at the Phi-Theta Zeta Ritual ceremony.

BROTHERS RECEIVE HIGHEST HONORS FROM AFLV

During their 2024 Central Conference, the Association of Fraternity Leadership and Values recognized two Lambda Chi Alpha Members for their outstanding service to the Fraternity.

Jamey Arnette, who serves as the High Pi for Iota-Omega Zeta at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, was awarded with the Wilford A. Butler Change Maker Alumni Award, awarded annually to recognize an outstanding fraternity or sorority volunteer.

Justin Henley, Epsilon-Omicron Zeta at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, received the Wayne S. Colvin Award, awarded annually to an undergraduate fraternity/sorority Chapter or council leader who has accelerated progress in the fraternity/sorority experience on their campus.

Congratulations to these Brothers on their outstanding achievements!

FORMER STAFF REUNION

In September 2023, previous staff Members who served during the George Spasyk era gathered to celebrate what would have been his 100th birthday. They gathered in Indianapolis along with their spouses for a once-in-a-lifetime reunion marked by the rekindling of cherished memories and the forging of new connections.

During the weekend, they visited the current Office of Administration and took a tour of the former Office of Administration at 8741 Founders Road, which was most recently home to Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity.

Thank you to the planning committee for putting together this event: Rob Anderson, Mark Bauer, Mike Der Manouel, Greg Lagana, Bill Mathis, Phil Parker, and Gary Tiller. In addition, a big thank you to Ric Kirby for curating an outstanding program during the closing banquet, and Greg Lagana for his remarkable job as Master of Ceremony. Thank you for hosting a wonderful weekend in memory of George.

THETA-PI ZETA, GETTYSBURG COLLEGE

Gettysburg College recognized Theta-Pi Zeta with their Order of Omega Greek Awards. Both individual Brothers and the Chapter and were recognized with the following awards: Senior Fraternity Man of the Year, Fraternity President of the Year, the Brian K. Weller Leadership Change Award, Substance Free Event of the Year, Chapter of the Year. Congratulations and well done, Brothers!

If you would like to submit Chapter News, send an update to marketing@lambdachi.org

EPSILON-MU ZETA, THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

University of Florida recognized Epsilon-Mu Zeta during their 76th annual Greek Awards. Both individual Brothers and the Chapter and were recognized with the following awards: Excellence in Greek Collaboration, Excellence in Scholarship Programming, Advisor of the Year, & Interfraternity Council President of the Year. Congratulations Brothers and keep up the good work!

ALPHA-DELTA ZETA, MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Missouri S&T recognized Alpha-Delta Zeta during their Greek Awards. Both individual Brothers and the Chapter were recognized with the following awards: Scholastic Programming, Philanthropy Outreach, & Outstanding Chapter President. Congratulations Brothers, such awesome achievements!

ALPHA-ALPHA ZETA, BUTLER UNIVERSITY

Brothers at Butler University worked with local Alumni to move and unpack boxes of coats for the Second Presbyterian Church's annual Winter Warmth Coat Drive. Because of their generous spirit, over 800 coats were unpacked, helping their Indianapolis neighbors in need. This is a great example of putting our values into action!

AFTER 50 YEARS

If you would like to submit Chapter News, send an update to marketing@lambdachi.org

Brothers from Xi Zeta at DePauw University hosted their first major reunion in over a decade with their holiday gathering in December 2023.

ALUMNI OF XI ZETA KEEP THEIR CONNECTION STRONG

OMEGAS