Photo courtesy: USGS (Unites States Geological Survey)
2023
Leadership & Service Highlights INSIDE: Spotlight on Richard Pogue, Chi '50 (Cornell University)
ABOUT THE
INSIDE THIS EDITION:
A Word from the Chair Alex Senchak, Eta '06 4
Psi U Beacon
The Psi U Beacon is an annual publication of the Psi Upsilon Foundation.. The Beacon focuses on the scholarship award winners of the year and emphasizes the promising work these men and women are focusing their education and training on. Feedback and suggestions for future content or to sponsor this publication can be directed to jonathan@psiu.org.
Foundation BOA R D OF D I R EC TOR S
PRESIDENT & CHAIR Alexander C. Senchak, Eta ‘06
Richard Pogue, Chi '50 Service with Distinction 5
VICE CHAIR Matthew J. Eckenrode, Epsilon Nu ‘04
6-10
SIF Update: Bri M. Watson, Delta Nu '11 recieves Vanie CGS Award 12
Shared Perspectives: Roberta Howard Hunter, Ph D Epsilon Iota '94 (RPI) 13
Psi Upsilon Responds
Patrick J. Gilrane, Psi ‘83 SECRETARY
16-17
V I C E P R ESI D ENT James Platner, Phi Delta ’10 S E C R E T ARY Dave Hollis, Gamma Tau ’11 TR E A S URER
A L U M N I TE R M M EM B ERS Steven Malinski, Epsilon Iota ’09 Lance Miller, Epsilon Nu ’80 Jon Szynkowski, Epsilon Nu ’06
Martin Brayboy, Gamma ‘84
Madison Turkette, Delta Omicron Prov. ’19
TREASURER
U N DE R G RAD UAT E
John F. H. Ong, Gamma ‘82 DIRECTORS Garrett Gleim, Tau ‘01
Doug Jackman, Omega ‘89
A D V I S O R Y B O ARD Ethan Francoeur, Delta Omicron Provisional ’24 Isaac Lam, Theta Theta ’26 L I F E M E MB ERS ( P A S T P R E S I D ENT S)
Gar y G. Pan, Eta ‘86
Thomas T. Allan IV, Theta Theta ’89
James Volpentest, Theta Theta ‘90
David A. B. Brown, Epsilon Phi ’66
PAST CHAIRS/PRESIDENTS
Richard A. Rasmussen, Upsilon ’72
Mark D. Bauer, Omega ‘83
James A. Swanke, Jr., Rho ’80
Larr y Rakers, Omicron ‘86
Mark D. Bauer, Omega ’83 Charles M. Hall, Nu Alpha ’71
Charles M. Hall, Nu Alpha ‘71
Evan W. Terr y, Epsilon Phi ’93
Samuel J. Tinaglia, Omega ‘88
H O N O R A R Y L I FE M EM B ERS
Thomas T. Hanford, Gamma ‘62
14-15
Outstanding Juniors & Griffin Awards
P R E S I DENT Jeremy McKeon, Eta ’08
Timothy Zepp, Chi Delta ’08 CHAIR EMERITUS
2023 Steering Committee and Fellows
Executive Council
Bradley R. Corner, Omicron ’72 Murray L. Eskenazi, Lambda ’65 Patrick Gilrane, Psi ’83
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Charles A. Werner, Omega ’55
Jonathan M Chaffin, Gamma Tau ‘00
William N. Wishard III, Delta Delta ’64
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION Bethann Taylor DIRECTOR OF DONOR RELATIONS Clanton Johnson SENIOR PHILANTHROPIC ADVISOR Jay Riemenschneider, Beta Alpha '91
E X E C U TI V E D I RECT O R Thomas J. Fox, Omicron ’00 DI R E C TOR O F C H A P TE R S ERVI CES Steven Oechsle D I R E C TO R O F GRO WT H Travis Smith D I R E C TO R O F ME MB ER SERVI CES Keith Willard
2
Social Impact Fellowship 2024 Reception
Join us Friday, January 5, 2024 • 6:30 pm •
Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria
ABOUT OUR COVER: Elisabeth Gallant,
Epsilon Iota '09 (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute) measures fountain heights during the 2022 eruption of Mauna Loa using a laser rangefinder.
Photo courtesy: USGS (Unites States Geological Survey)
3
PEOPLE-FIRST LEADERSHIP
Foundation President& Chair Dear Brothers, The accounts of international events and
of “people-first” leaders. Blending their professional foci in tandem with
political activities throughout our own
supporting people and communities. This can be difficult to balance in
country can seem both distant and in your
many industries that continue to perpetuate a results-driven approach to
face at the same time. With a brotherhood
leadership. As one of the recent fellows in higher education said to me
of such diverse backgrounds, we all know
recently “Among so much content, effective leadership today is about
someone who is affected by these events
reading those working with you as much as it is about directing the
and grappling with them now. However,
team.” For our leadership programs, both undergraduate and mid-career
this is also one of the main visible benefits
fellows, we continue to emphasize these important interpersonal skills
of the Psi Upsilon brotherhood - our shared values can make the world a
to complement the many clinical skills developed in formal training
better place by supporting each other just because we have this shared
programs. We hear more and more the desire for this training at all
bond. Whether friends from freshman year of someone we met just a
professional levels.
few weeks ago, I see people rising to support brothers in ways not often
I look forward to hearing more from you anytime and please enjoy the
afforded to even our closest friends.
Beacon!
Tending to our people - colleagues and friends - is an underrated
Yours in the bonds,
characteristic of the best leaders I have seen in action. They lean into the conversation with junior colleagues and make time to connect on a personal level, listening to the perspectives, anxieties, and hopes both
Yours in the Bonds,
personal and professional. The headspace and focus on the person, not the function, has emerged as a requirement of today's workplace but in our brotherhood, I would submit we have been doing this since our founding because we are 100% about and for people. That to me
Alex Senchak, Eta ‘06 President and Chair, Psi Upsilon Foundation
is also why our programs like the Social Impact Fellowship are such an important extension of what we have done for several deceased, supporting and inspiring people, at all stages and parts of their life. The people showcased in this edition of the Beacon are great examples
ACHIEVEMENT | DEDICATION | PROMISE The Social Impact Fellowship aims to highlight brothers’ commitment to service for the common good of society and provide funds for leadership skills development. The Fellowship builds cohorts of emerging leaders to support their pursuits, and through this to provide a distinguished year-long opportunity to inspire others.
4
Distinction
SERVICE WITH
Richard Pogue
Chi '50 (Cornell University)
Lessons Learned from Extensive Involvement With Business Organizations “As a lawyer I was privileged to work for some excellent corporations and learned that honesty and
E
ven after a lifetime of deep involvement with dozens of civic groups and a recent retirement from more than six decades of service at Jones
Day, Richard Pogue, Chi '50 (Cornell University) still works five days a week helping various nonprofit corporations, helping to improve the communities in and around Cleveland, which he has called home since 1957. After graduating from Cornell University and then Michigan Law School, Pogue spent three years as a First Lieutenant in the Army Judge Advocate’s Corps at the Pentagon. Initially, he had “zero interest” in the Forest City and had never heard of Jones Day, but the firm’s storied managing partner, Allen Holmes was unrelenting in his recruitment. Pogue and his wife, Pat, agreed to stay five years and then move on. They fell in love with the firm and with their community, and they never left. From 1984 to 1993 Dick served as Managing Partner of Jones Day, one of the country’s largest law firms; during that period he led the Firm into the international arena. For the first several years, Dick threw himself into his work, then after staying out too late one night, Pogue got the urge to “do some good” and, with the guidance of a Senior Partner, he became a counselor to a group of rambunctious teenage boys at what was then called
straight-forwardness were key traits to be observed and followed. Another valuable asset exhibited by successful businessmen is a capacity for hard work.”
Philosophies on Organizational Involvement “I believe that all of us can feel better about ourselves if we devote time and effort to helping improve the communities in which we work and/or live. When I…became Managing Partner of my law firm, I set as a goal a breakdown of my business time—40% on bringing in and/or servicing clients, 40% on managing the Firm, and 20% on “outside” (i.e., community) activities.”
Successes and Lessons Learned as Part of Cleveland’s 1976 Bicentennial Commission “The principal lesson I learned from my experience as Co-Chairman of the Cleveland Bicentennial Commission in 1976 was [that] the reverence for history can be a wonderful motivation for continuing to strive for the best in any organization.”
How to Evaluate the Strength of an Organization You Want to Engage With “In evaluating the strength of an organization you are considering engagement with, I believe that three key considerations are its financial stability, its record of success in helping others, and its solidarity over a long period of time.”
On the Psi U Experience “While most of my post-college life has been in a location far away from the locale of my college (Ithaca, NY), I have stayed in reasonable touch with several classmates, including one or two members of Psi Upsilon. As I learned from my Psi U experience so many years ago, I would say that association with able people who live to help others who are less well situated was a guiding principle which was engrained in me at that time and has stayed with me throughout the intervening years.”
a “settlement house” (now more commonly known as a community center). He soon became Chairman of the Board at that nonprofit. The fulfillment he found in those early roles led him to seek out other opportunities to help out in the community.
“I would say that association with able people who live to help others who are less well situated [is] a guiding principle which was engrained in me at [Psi U] and has stayed with me throughout the intervening years.”
Since then, Pogue has gone on to serve as chairman of many organizations, including The Cleveland Foundation, Greater Cleveland Growth Association, and University Hospitals Health System, and has served
Dick Pogue, center, has been an
as a trustee for Case Western Reserve University, The
honorary co-chair of the Gordon Square
University of Akron, and Cleveland Institute of Music. He
Arts District in its marathon organizational
is also a co-founder of the Regional Business Council and
and fundraising efforts. In 2009, Pogue,
a founding trustee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and
with his wife, Pat (left), and then-Gordon
Museum, helping to bring the major tourist destination
Square Arts District Executive Director
to the area. Most recently, Pogue co-chaired a seven-year
Joy Roller celebrated the opening of the Capitol Theatre. (Plain Dealer file, 2009)
campaign that raised $30 million for the Gordon Square
The Plain Dealer
Arts District, where he and his wife had been supporters of the Near West Theatre.
5
2023 SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOWSHIP OF PSI UPSILON
2023 Steering Committee
Kevin Klock, Chi Delta ‘01(Duke)
Amb. Robert Beecroft Ret’d,, Tau ‘62 (Pennsylvania)
Dr. Roberta Hunter PhD, Epsilon Iota '94 (RPI)*
Christian A. Klein, Phi Beta ’92 (College of William & Mary)
Dr. Elise Walton, Kappa ‘80 (Bowdoin)
Gary Pan, Eta ’86 (Lehigh)
Alex Senchak, Eta ’06 (Lehigh)
Jonathan Chaffin, Gamma Tau ’00 (Georgia Institute of Technology)
2023 Fellows
GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION SENIOR FELLOW
Jeremiah Olney • Gamma Tau '14 (Georgia Institute of Technology) DR. SAMUEL FAGER, TAU ‘81 SENIOR FELLOW
Elisabeth Gallant, PhD • Epsilon Iota '09 (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute)
This program has been generously funded by brothers and especially the members of the Gamma Chapter Corporation, Joseph P. Cillo, PhD, Delta ‘61 and donors to the Dr. Sam Fager Fellowship. See the full list of donors online at Psiu.org/social_impact_fellowship and in the December edition of the Psi U Review.
FISHFUND SENIOR FELLOW
B. Alexander Hofelich • Gamma Tau '97 (Georgia Institute of Technology) SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Paul Mokrzycki • Upsilon '20 (University of Rochester) 6
GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION SENIOR FELLOW
JEREMIAH OLNEY
Gamma Tau '14, (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Gamma Chapter Corporation Senior Fellow Jeremiah Olney, Gamma Tau '14,
and fighting climate change. The Georgia
engagement in thought provoking discussions
works with The Nature Conservancy as the
chapter implements prescribed burns, manages
to invite those around him to think critically. She
Marketing and Communications Manager for
preserves, works with partners to protect
recognizes his social excellence as well because
Georgia and oversees all internal and external
hundreds of thousands of acres of land, and
of Jeremiah’s ability to foster teamwork and build
communications. He has spent his career in the
explores coastal climate mitigation and adaptation
strong relationships that promote inclusivity. This
communications sphere, developing a media
strategies. Furthermore, Jeremiah develops
coupled with his dedication to serving others,
presence and messaging to help people and
communications strategies and develops all
sets him apart as someone who not only excels
organizations effectively reach people in service
marketing materials for the Georgia chapter of
personally, but also uplifts those they work with.
of causes he believes in. Jeremiah is a longtime
the Nature Conservancy including but not limited
She believes, “Jeremiah will make a valuable
Psi Upsilon Society of Georgia member and
to media relations, preparation of documents
addition to your program.”
board member. He’s described as a “relative
for donors and trustees, public awareness
rarity among the Chapter’s Alumni,” (who trend strongly into the private sector) in that he has been dedicated to the
Jeremiah cites direct
“I oversee all marketing and communications for the Georgia chapter of The Nature Conservancy… media
public sector and working with
relations, preparation of documents and other materials
political campaigns, focused on
for donors and trustees, public awareness campaigns,
making positive change in his home state. Recommender Paul
advertising, and working with every member of our
influence by Congressman John Lewis whom he met working in his office as an intern in his time at Georgia Tech. What he cares about most, going forward from that
Travis, Gamma Tau ’01 (Georgia
staff to spread our message of conservation from the
opportunity, is the ability
Tech) goes on to write, “I have
statewide to local level.”
to make a difference. He
- Jeremiah Olney, Gamma Tau '14
star, leading him through
had the pleasure of working with Jeremiah Olney for the last
found that to be his guiding
five years. In that time, I have
his entire working life,
been consistently impressed
up to and including his
with his organizational capacity and enthusiasm
campaigns, advertising, and working with every
current position with the Georgia chapter of The
for helping the Chapter and Alumni Association
member of the staff to spread a message of
Nature Conservancy.
through the last few busy years, including
conservation from the statewide to the local
spending two years as President of the Board. He
level. According to her, supervising him at The
Jeremiah states that he’s hoping that the
has been invaluable to the PUSOG Board since
Nature Conservancy has been, “a privilege.” She
fellowship can help him focus on public speaking,
he joined.”
goes on to say that, “he embodies the qualities
help his volunteer management, and/or strategic
and values that Psi Upsilon holds dear.” This
planning abilities. In addition to these goals, he
Jeremiah's immediate supervisor at The Nature
includes, “moral excellence because Jeremiah
says the fellowship will help his professional and
Conservancy, Kristine Concepcion, also greatly
consistently upholds the highest moral standards
political goals.
supports Jeremiah Olney for the Psi Upsilon
as his ethical conduct and
Foundation Social Impact Fellowship. His job at
integrity serve as shining
the Georgia chapter of The Nature Conservancy
examples to those around him.
is to conserve the lands and waters on which all
She also cites his intellectual
life depends. Practically, that means conserving
excellence, stemming from
the land, protecting freshwater and oceans,
his passion for knowledge and
7
DR. SAMUEL FAGER, TAU ‘81 FELLOW
ELISABETH GALLANT, PHD
Epsilon Iota '09, (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute)
Dr. Samuel Fager, Tau ‘81 Fellow Dr. Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant PhD, Epsilon
In addition to her appointment at UH Hilo,
competitive fellowships, and have secured entry
Iota '09, is described as a true leader by
Dr. Gallant has been a faculty member for the
to a multitude of graduate programs.
example, striving to make both hostile volcanic
GeoSPACE field program over the last two
environments and academic landscape a truly
years and will be out in the field again this
Outside of the classroom, Dr. Gallant’s research
inclusive place, which is why she was nominated
summer. GeoSPACE is an intensive, multimodal
on lava flow hazards and volcano monitoring has
for the Psi Upsilon Social Impact Fellowship
volcanology and planetary science hybrid field
taken her to El Salvador, Colombia, Nicaragua,
Program. She has received four degrees in
camp designed to promote equitable access to
Iceland, the Pacific Northwest, and the Island of
the fields of communication and geoscience
the outdoors for individuals with disabilities who
Hawai'i. As a postdoctoral research fellow with
through hard work and dedication, all while
require field experience to graduate from their
the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, she was
dismantling barriers that traditionally exclude
institution, the first and only one of its kind in the
part of the boots-on-the-ground response to the
underrepresented talent from STEM fields
nation. During the program, Lis serves as content
2022 eruption of Mauna Loa and the numerous
and mentoring the next generation of future
expert on volcanology and geologic hazards,
eruptions of K'lauea that began in 2020. She has
geoscientists.
manages the nutritional needs for a wide range
continued to work with the Hawaiian Volcano
of dietary restrictions, and takes a hands-on
Observatory as she has shifted to her new role as
Lis would be the first to tell you that the
role in undergraduate mentoring by sharing her
a professor and plans to build a robust research
likelihood of her being a successful scientist and
personal educational journey, life experiences
program at UH Hilo that allows her to connect
college professor was very low. She arrived at
and struggles within academia, and global
students with opportunities to study volcanic
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the Fall of
perspectives acquired through her international
hazards and explore the field of geology without
2005 unprepared for university life and culture
work as a volcanologist. Students from this
barriers to access.
and cites her brothers at Psi Upsilon as the
program have gone on to work for NASA, receive
driving force for helping her overcome such a steep learning curve. Without their support and guidance she would not have made it through her freshman year; in turn, it is unlikely that
'Aʻohe pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi.'
she would have graduated and continued on her trajectory of academic success, which
- One learns from many sources.
lead to a PhD in volcanology, a postdoctoral
“The purpose of the UH Hilo ohana (family) is to challenge students to reach their highest level of academic achievement by inspiring learning, discovery and creativity inside and outside the classroom. Our kuleana (responsibility) is to improve the quality of life of the people of Hawaii, the Pacific region and the world.”
appointment at the University of Cambridge, a prestigious fellowship through the National Science Foundation, and a tenure track job at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo (UH Hilo). Many students from low resource backgrounds with large preparation gaps for university life lack a safety net to help catch them when they stumble, but the brothers of the Epsilon Iota Chapter were there to help Lis when she needed them the most.
– Dr. Elisabeth Gallant, Epsilon Iota '09
8
FISHFUND SENIOR FELLOW
B. ALEXANDER HOFELICH
Gamma Tau '97, (Georgia Institute of Technology)
FishFund Senior Fellow Alex Hofelich, Gamma Tau '97, is a multi-
a representation
talented person. He’s a traffic engineer for metro
problem. We
Atlanta. He has worked with, worked for, and hired
are helping to
many Psi U brothers. In addition to his day job as
correct it.” Ethical
an engineer, Alex has a second calling as an editor,
distribution is
advocate, and tireless promoter of short fiction.
important as well,
“One of my talents is system optimization, and I apply that to groups that I participate in. Most of the people involved in the Escape Artists Foundation are creatives, so having someone technical involved allows room for suggestions that improve efficiency or delivery.” - B. Alexander Hofelich, Gamma Tau '97,
as all the material Alex is a board member of The Escape Artists
is distributed
Foundation (EA). EA started as a single science
under the Creative Commons Attribution-
fiction podcast in 2005, rapidly expanding to a
Noncommercial-No Derivative Works License and
catalogue of five ’casts. Escape Artists was granted
limit the contracts to only the rights needed to
501(c)(3) nonprofit status on the first of January
present the stories. EA additionally plays a huge
2023, bringing free and accessible short fiction to
role in making audio short fiction stories available;
global audiences.
Alex aggressively tracks down and works with families and estates to help bring long out-of-print
Alex describes EA as “specializing in creating
stories new life (in some cases leading to new
free-to-listen short fiction podcasts covering all
paychecks and rediscovery for older stories).
five of the critical genres: Science Fiction, Fantasy,
Alex is excited for the fellowship, because most
Horror, Young Adult, and Cats.” Their award-
of EA’s board members are also core members
winning content is downloaded or streamed tens
of the creative team with limited to no nonprofit
of millions of times a year. The Escape Artists
experience. The training he receives will be
Vision is self-described as “One story, told well.
invaluable to their mission.
It’s what we do and what sets us apart. We publish four free weekly genre short fiction podcasts (cats
Alex began his association with Escape Artists
are monthly), work with partners to publish print
through PseudoPod: the weekly horror fiction
and digital anthologies, and support compassion
podcast (Pseudopod.org) that has been going
and the sheer love of story, all condensed into
since 2006 (the first episode in 2024 will be the
a lunch break’s worth of audio. The EA shows
900th episode). Alex started with Pseudopod
have served as inspiration for dozens of podcasts
in 2010. In 2013, Alex moved up to Assistant
and magazines, in print and in audio. That
Editor and in 2015, Alex became Co-editor. The
characteristic format, the one amazing story,
two initial co-editors of PseudoPod were Mur
paired with a fantastic narration and insightful
Lafferty (a Foundation board member) and Ben
commentary, remains the cornerstone of EA til
Phillips, Gamma Tau ’01. Ben went on to become
this day.”
Editor for Escape Pod and run Escape Artists, Inc. before handing it off to Alasdair Stuart and
Escape Artists is dedicated to the vision to
Marguerite Kenner (who are also Foundation
“compensate the creative” and that “working for
board members).
and training. This has expanded beyond just his work in one of the creative arms in the Foundation, as PseudoPod has regularly served as a test bed for new ideas that spread creatively to the other podcasts. This includes story calendar management, coordination with estates for rights, editing anthologies, and budget management practices. Alex, when donation rates are usually constrained, would help to extend the budget for that year. Another effort started recently is the Anthologies and Collections Showcase, which helps to draw attention to small and independent publishers producing excellent books filled with short fiction. This has had an impact on improving visibility by drawing attention to works which could have been easily overlooked. In coordination with this, Alex currently serves as Co-chair of the Atlanta Chapter of the Horror Writers Association, the international organization for horror prose. Alex also serves as Co-chair and Jury Coordinator of the Bram Stoker Award Committee, the premier horror fiction award (analagous to the Heisman Trophy of the horror genre). He regularly volunteers for leadership positions and wins them in his community. Alex states that one of his strengths is optimization, and he has also applied that for eight years serving on the Psi Upsilon Society of Georgia Board. Supporting his community is inherent in him, and
‘exposure’ is a cause of death, not the way to pay bills.” Artists deserve to be paid for their work. EA
Alex has led, assisted, or managed efforts related
also wants to widen the circle: “Genre fiction has
to contracts, budgets, fundraising, team growth,
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this fellowship will expand growth of that ability in multiple dimensions.
SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
PAUL MOKRZYCKI
Upsilon '20, (University of Rochester)
Social Impact Fellow Paul Mokrzycki hails from the Upsilon Chapter
project’s fieldwork, he also led gathered
of Psi Upsilon. He was sent recommendation
building observations, collected salivary
letters twice for his application for the Psi
samples, conducted interviews and administered
Upsilon Social Impact Fellowship. Both of
questionnaires throughout Manhattan and
his recommendations state that he’s a strong
and graduate studies. In June of 2023, he was
Bronx boroughs. Additionally, he co-authored
advocate for the area of social justice through
invited to Wrocław, Poland to join the Centre for
a literature review examining the weathering
housing and environmental health equity, as
Interdisciplinary Research into Health and Illness
hypothesis, household energy, and stress. His
well as speak of him as a leader in his time at
at the University of Wrocław. That position, as a
contributions revolved around the weathering
the University of Rochester. In May of 2020,
visiting research associate in Poland’s first health
hypothesis and home environmental aspects.
which were also the beginnings of the COVID
humanities center, initially slated to last until
-19 pandemic, Mokrzycki earned a bachelor
November of 2023, has been extended.
Paul is a Polish-American dual citizen, so his work with the University of Wrocław is conducted
of science in Environmental Health, from the University of Rochester College of Arts and
After completing his graduate degree, Paul
in both Polish and English. He completed
Sciences. That same month, he was awarded the
returned to his hometown of Brooklyn, New
his first research study with the Centre for
Dr. Holly Atkinson Undergraduate Prize; this is
York City to work as a housing advocate for the
Interdisciplinary Research into Health and Illness
awarded to the undergraduate student majoring
Breaking Ground company. There, he aided the
regarding the energy crisis and how it influences
in public health who “best exemplifies advocacy
street homeless population by arranging medical
the health and well-being of Wrocław residents
in the public health arena.”
and legal assistance, as well as identifying
across the housing spectrum. Furthermore,
vacant beds in Breaking Ground facilities. He
he is working on a paper examining the impact
In February of 2022, Mokrzycki was attending
also worked alongside government agencies,
of Russia’s weaponization of energy, which
the Warner School of Education and Human
healthcare providers, and social workers to
characterizes the crimes against humanity
Development Master of Science program with
advocate for his clients’ housing prospects.
directed toward the Ukrainian people. In his current research study he is reexamining the
a specialization in Research, as well as holding a GPA of 3.93. In May of 2022, the Mary Ellen
In August of 2022, Mokrzycki was a Housing
Great Flood of 1997 and the impact it had on the
Burris Human Development Award was given
and Health Research Assistant for Columbia
residents of Wrocław. Specifically, he intends to
to Paul Mokrzycki, as a graduate student
University’s Mailman School of Public Health
put “excess deaths” into perspective, while also
devoted to bringing human development
Energy, Equity, Health, and Housing Lab
shedding a light on the issue of the “frail housing
in New York City. Aside from assisting with
conditions” that were caused because of the flood.
theory and research into practice to foster the health and well-being of individuals, schools,
administrative duties associated with the
and society. His master’s thesis examined the biopsychosocial implications of accelerated aging among unsheltered urban houseless populations and identified recommendations for community organizations. His professional and volunteer experiences span some interesting areas in environmental justice research related to his undergraduate
“I am currently leading a mixed methods study examining the developmental influence of weathering from energy insecurity. Specifically, the impact on one’s biopsychosocial development.” - Paul Mokrzycki, Upsilon '20 (University of Rochester)
10
PAST
vestibulum mattis lectus. Nulla dapibus rhoncus neque ac convallis. Vestibulum pharetra lacus augue, in placerat erat aliquet vitae. Sed sodales congue dui, auctor volutpat diam pellentesque et. Pellentesque sit amet est sit amet nibh luctus blandit eu nec nisl. Praesent hendrerit ipsum urna. Nullam nibh augue, iaculis in lorem ac, congue placerat lorem. Donec accumsan feugiat auctor. Proin vel pretium augue. Nullam eget libero lobortis, faucibus ante eu, volutpat metus. Etiam maximus Named Fellowships have been enim id orci dictum, eget faucibus est ultrices. Aenean semper created within the endowed fund that ex id interdum faucibus. Duis magna sapien, auctor at lorem supports the Social Impact Fellowshp varius, sollicitudin vulputate dui. Vivamus vulputate nec libero with pledges donations at malesuada. Curabitur facilisisand erat vel dui cursus, utabove suscipit odio ultrices. $50,000 to provide for the stipend and
Fellows
FUNDING THE FELLOWSHIP
2020-2021
to operate the program.
Donec quis elit lobortis dui consequat laoreet. Sed est nunc, ultrices ac dui quis, varius egestas augue. Fusce posuere justo lorem, eu pretium erat congue in. Vestibulum quis odio nec dui tristique dignissim nec id nulla. Cras et tortor ac mauris pretium mollis. Nam ex mauris, molestie a dui vitae, lacinia pretium turpis. In pretium nibh mi. Praesent tempor est a enim pretium venenatis. Fusce vitae ante quis orci facilisis rutrum nec sit amet tortor. Ut a metus dui. Nulla vel ultricies orci, a varius tortor. Nullam quis lectus hendrerit purus efficitur rhoncus. Curabitur nec quam id odio ornare pellentesque vel ut ex. Aenean vitae fermentum tortor.
HONORARY SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Amb. Robert Beecroft Ret’d • Tau ‘62 (Pennsylvania) GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION SENIOR FELLOW
THANK YOU TO THESE NAMED FUNDS:
Rico Francis • Phi Nu '18 (Christopher Newport) DR. SAMUEL FAGER, TAU ‘81 SENIOR FELLOW
Dr. Osman J. Bhatty, M.D. • Pi '10 (Syracuse)
THE FISHFUND
SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Rhoden Monrose • Beta Beta ‘09 (Trinity) SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
THE GAMMA CORP
Dan Coveillo • Eta ‘13 (Lehigh)
THE DR. SAM FAGER Maecenas in ex semper, bibendum mi ac, commodo dui. Proin FUND venenatis ante et turpis posuere, eget ultricies quam laoreet.
2021-2022 HONORARY SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Dr. Barbara Hendrie • Kappa '80 (Bowdoin) GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION SENIOR FELLOW
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Dr. Brian Christie • Zeta '07 (Dartmouth) DR. SAMUEL FAGER, TAU ‘81 SENIOR FELLOW
Dr. Daniel Correa • Phi Delta '04 (Mary Washington) FISHFUND SENIOR FELLOW
Roberta Hunter, Ph • Epsilon Iota '94 (RPI) SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Bri Watson • Delta Nu ‘11 (Keene State) SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Rich Paul • Eta ‘10 (Lehigh)
asenchak@psiu.org
SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
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Mike Thibideau • Epsilon Nu ‘11 (Michigan State)
Social Impact Fellowship
2022-2023 HONORARY SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
John D. Hatfield • Iota ‘94 GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION SENIOR FELLOW
Dr. Audrey Fisch • Gamma ‘87 GAMMA CHAPTER CORPORATION FELLOW
Dr. Alison Munzer, PhD • Gamma ‘09 DR. SAMUEL FAGER, TAU ‘81 SENIOR FELLOW
Dr. Elizabeth Andresen • Chi Delta ’04 FISHFUND SENIOR FELLOW
Devon Trotter • Phi Beta ’06 SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
Christopher Lawrence Tang ESQ • Gamma Tau ’01
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PSI UPSILON SOCIAL IMPACT FELLOW
RECIEVES VANIER CGS AWARD BRI M. WATSON Delta Nu '11, (University of British Columbia iSchool)
provided them with additional skills and resources
has shaped both their scholarship at the iSchool
to effectively manage and advance their work in
and their broader activism, particularly in the
Bri M. Watson, Delta Nu '11 (Keene State
serving marginalized communities and further
realm of GLAMS (Galleries, Archives, Libraries,
College), currently a doctoral student at the
equipped them to navigate the complexities and
Museums, & Special Collections). Among their
University of British Columbia iSchool was
challenges of creating meaningful change within
projects are HistSex.org, focused on the history
cultural and academic spheres.
of sexuality, and contributions to Homosaurus, an
recently honored with the 2022 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. This award is Canada's apex academic honor, aimed at attracting and retaining elite doctoral candidates through substantial financial backing. The Vanier CGS is considered a hallmark of academic excellence and research potential, and recipients often end up in positions of leadership and influence in their respective fields. Watson credits their tenure as the First Angelos and Archon of the Delta Nu Chapter of Psi Upsilon as being essential in providing them with the leadership skills essential for their current research and activism. During their time at Delta Nu they restructured the pledging process, rewrote the constitution, and led a major recruitment drive and then later on founded an alumni organization which provided scholarships to active brothers.
international vocabulary of queer terms. Watson's research is centered on equitable cataloging, linked data, and histories of sexuality,
Beyond academia, Watson is dedicated to public
archives, and knowledge organization. They are
accessibility of their research. They are active in
committed to remedying the marginalization of
initiatives like the Consensual Nonmonogamy
various groups—including Black, Indigenous,
Committee of the American Psychological
Two-Spirit, and LGBTQ+ communities—within
Association which focuses on research and
information systems. Utilizing linked data
education around consensually non-monogamous
technology, they aim to replace archaic terms
relationships; the Name Change Policy Working
and empower communities through accurate
Group, which aims to amend policies that
terminology. Watson's historical training informs
harm transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-
this work, underscoring that revision to harmful
conforming authors; and the Queer and Trans
systems is not enough and that the systems
Metadata Collective, focused on developing
must be entirely redeveloped and replaced with
ethical standards for cataloging, classifying, and
alternatives. Their research utilizes "linked data"
describing marginalized and minoritized gender
technology to replace outdated terms, allowing
identities.
communities to use accurate and relevant You can read more
terminology that reflects their own lives.
about Watson's work Receiving the Vanier CGS award holds particular
in these areas in the
significance for Watson, as they identify as
Fall 2021 edition
Delta Nu also shaped Watson's perspective
a multiply-marginalized individual—being
of The Beacon
on service to a larger community. Specifically,
disabled, queer, and nonbinary—and the rarity
(https://issuu.
it taught them the importance of fostering
of seeing individuals with intersecting identities
com/psiupsilon/
inclusivity and creating spaces where everyone's
"like them" recognized feels affirming and
voices and experiences are valued. Winning the
empowering. Watson hopes that this award
Psi U Social Impact Fellowship also played a
enhances the visibility and representation of their
significant role in their journey, as the fellowship
work and that it empowers others. This ethos
12
docs/2021_fall_ leadership_beacon).
Social Impact Fellowship Roberta Howard Hunter,PhD Steering Committee Chair SHARED PERSPECTIVES Epsilon Iota '94 (RPI)
When we join Psi Upsilon we pledge to aspire to moral, intellectual, and social excellence in ourselves as we seek to inspire these values in society. In our undergrad years, this may take the form of philanthropy projects. As an undergrad at RPI the experience that was most impactful for me was supporting visitors when the AIDS Quilt project visited Albany. I felt like I made a difference to the people there that day. It was one part of the story that led me to spend most of my career in the nonprofit and higher education sectors, working as an educator and researcher to improve science and sustainability education and connect people to the environment. Ultimately, it led me to the Psi Upsilon Social Impact Fellowship and my position as Chair of the Steering Committee.
Hatfield, Iota, 94. What has impressed me is the wide array of ways that Brothers are making a difference in our world, and this can act as a model if you want to increase your impact on an issue you care about. Below are some ways you can increase your work towards social excellence.
The Social Impact Fellowship (SIF) provides recognition to Brothers who practice social excellence and inspire it in others. The program provides a professional development stipend, exclusive webinars, and a leadership retreat. Being part of the Social Impact Fellowship has been an opportunity to meet some truly amazing Brothers. I have met doctors (Brian Christie, Zeta ’07; Elizabeth Andresen, Chi Delta, ’04; Dan Corea, Phi Delta ‘04), researchers and academics (Alison Munzer, Gamma ’09; Audrey Fisch, Gamma ’87; Bri Watson, Delta Nu 11; Lis Gallant, Epsilon Iota, ‘09), economic development experts (Mike Thibideau, Epsilon Nu ‘11) ), sustainability experts (Devon Trotter, Phi Beta, ’06; Jeremiah Olney, Gamma Tau, 15), editors, podcasters, and gamers (Alex Hoeflich, Gamma Tau, 98; Christopher Tang, Gamma Tau, 01), among many others. Our Honorary Fellows, who are farther along in their career and have made significant social impact include Ambassador Robert Beecroft (Tau, 62), former Director of North America, United Nations Environment Barbara Hendrie (Kappa, ’80), and Director of Michigan State’s The Axia Institute, John
Identify what you want to improve in the world What speaks to your personal values? For me, my personal mission is to help children grow and develop, and to create a more sustainable world. Yours might be to ensure a strong workforce, to fight climate change, or that veterans have access to the mental health resources they need. There are thousands of possibilities - focus on one that is meaningful to you.
CO NTRIBU TORS Jonathan M. Chaffin, Gamma Tau ‘00 (Georgia Institute of Technology) Jamie L. Grimes Roberta Howard Hunter, PhD, Epsilon Iota '94 (RPI) Alex Senchak, Eta ‘06 (Lehigh) Emily Scherer, Theta Pi ‘12 (Georgia State University)
THANK YOU!
We wish to recognize Brother Cushing Donelan, Gamma ‘05 (Amherst College) & Donelan Family Wines for their generous support of our publications, the Speaker Series, and the programs of Psi Upsilon.
DonelanWines.com
What resources can you commit to working on that? While some of our fellows have created impact through their careers, others volunteer with or found nonprofits. We all have different capacity and resources at different times. Some of us have the ability to donate time to nonprofits who we support, and not always direct service such as working in a soup kitchen to tabling at an event. Often organizations need help with data entry, or other work in which you can use your skills. Great at social media? Help create quality content for them. Help a small nonprofit reconcile their accounts. VolunteerMatch is a good resource to help you find opportunities. Don’t have time you can spare? Donations are always helpful, and CharityNavigator and Guidestar both rate charities on how well they are managed. One thing I’ve learned from my own research on environmental literacy and behavior is that the most effective form of behavior – political action – is the one fewest people engage in. Political action could be collecting signatures for ballot initiatives, contacting your local, state, and federal representatives on issues that are important to you, voting, or running for office yourself. Make connections Individually we can make change. Together we multiply our impact. Network to meet others who are working on the same issues that are important to you – through the nonprofits you work with, social media, and LinkedIn. These are all ways you can increase your impact like the Social Impact Fellows have. Want to learn more about the program, visit the website at https://psiu. org/social-impact-fellowship/. If you think you would make a good candidate for the fellowship, applications for the next cohort open in June 2024. Lastly, want to join us at the Leadership Retreat in Alexandria, VA on January 5th? Email Jonathan Chaffin at jonathan@psiu.org.
2021-2022 PSI UPSILON UNDER GRIFFIN AWARD FOR
S e n i o r Ex c e l l e n c e
The Griffin Award for Senior Excellence was created to recognize members of the Senior class who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to Psi U in their final year of classes as an undergraduate. Congratulations to those members of the class of 2023 who are being recognized for their dedication to their chapters.
Long Phi, Delta
Connor Lachman, Eta
Katelyn Provost, Gamma Tau
Seth Carney, Sigma Phi
New York University
Lehigh University
Georgia Institute of Technology
St. Francis University
Cole Robertson, Psi
David Navarro, Tau
Emma Cohen, Epsilon Iota
Zachar y Kempf, Phi Nu
Hamilton College
University of Pennsylvania
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Christopher Newport University
Chad White, Xi
Will Newlin, Omicron
Josh Rogers, Phi Beta
Warren Kirkland Smith IV,
Wesleyan University
University of Illinois
College of William & Mary
Lucas Tomasello, Phi
Jacob Kim, Theta Theta
Nathan Argust, Phi Delta
Tau Epsilon Clemson University
University of Michigan
University of Washington
University of Mary Washington
Madelyn Minns,
Alec Ostrowidzki, Pi
Eren Ozbag, Zeta Zeta
Garrett Collett, Lambda Sigma
Syracuse University
University of British Columbia
Pepperdine University
Delta Omicron Provisional Purdue University
Jamie Cherr y-Valentine,
Ryan Merchant, Epsilon Nu
Erick Guevara, Alpha Omicron
Beta Beta Trinity College
Michigan State University
New Jersey Institute of Technology
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“Being of service to others brings us together as a brotherhood in unique, memorable, and impactful ways.” — Alexander Senchak, Eta ’06 Chair & President of the Psi Upsilon Foundation Inc.
- GRADUATE AWARD RECIPIENTS OUTSTANDING
Ju n i o r Re c i p i e n t s
The Outstanding Junior Award is decided by each chapter as they choose the brothers, in the junior class as they rise to a senior, that best exemplify the values of Psi Upsilon Fraternity: Lifelong Friendship, Moral Leadership, Intellectual Engagement, Responsible Social Conduct, and Service to Society. Congratulations to the 2023 Outstanding Juniors and thank you for the contributions to Psi Upsilon and your chapters. Estefania Chinchilla, Delta
Christopher Gerazounis, Eta
Gabrielle Calderon, Gamma Tau
Tyler Beckwith, Sigma Phi
New York University
Lehigh University
Georgia Institute of Technology
St. Francis University
Nicholas Fluty, Psi
Dhruv Raman, Tau
Camille Brent, Epsilon Iota
Sean Conway, Phi Nu
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Christopher Newport University
Hamilton College
University of Pennsylvania
Meera Nemali, Xi
Alec Korabik, Omicron
Nicholas Elsberg, Phi Beta
Wesleyan University
University of Illinois
College of William & Mary
Kevin Malone, Phi
Josh Scott, Theta Theta
Zach Steinbaum, Phi Delta
University of Michigan
University of Washington
University of Mary Washington
Nolan Shay, Pi
Finn Johnson, Zeta Zeta
Aidan Henegar, Lambda Sigma
Syracuse University
University of British Columbia
Pepperdine University
Saar Rosa, Beta Beta
Charles Eberlein, Epsilon Nu
Richard Barros, Alpha Omicron
Michigan State University
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Trinity College
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Nicholas Silva, Tau Epsilon Clemson University Ethan Francouer, Delta Omicron Provisional Purdue University
Share some warm regard for your brothers with stylish Psi U socks and stuffed owlets for any little Owls in your life! For a limited time this holiday season, the Psi Upsilon Foundation will recognize gifts of $250 with a pair of socks or a stuffed owl sent to you or to a person of your choice! New Frequent Fliers who make a gift of $21.00+ a month for 12 months are also eligible. Send one to your little brother, classmates, or to a special someone. Best part is, we do the mailing on your behalf! We hope this Psi U gear will bring a smile to your face and rekindle fond memories. Limited availability till Dec. 13th! www.PsiU.org/socks
Join us Dec. 7th Psi Upsilon invites you to our annual Symposium bringing together industry leaders together for an evening of moderated discussion around what 2024 might bring. Details on Psiu.org TO APPLY FOR A '24-'25 SCHOLARSHIP:
PsiU.org/scholarship TO SUPPORT THE '24-'25 : SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
PsiU.org/give
Thursday, December 7, 2023. 6 PM – 9PM. Program begins at 6:45 Indian Harbor Yacht Club 710 Steamboat Road Greenwich, CT 06830