The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2010

FALL 2010 VOLUME 93 NUMBER 2

www.phikaps.org

BullEx, Inc

Brother Rossi Serves Through Development of Fire Training Technology

PRESIDENT’S NOTE National President’s Note Dear Brothers, Phi Kappa Theta actively develops men to be effective leaders who passionately serve society, Fraternity and God. These words appear at the end of every e-mail I send as your President. Yet these words come to life during every encounter I have with a brother of Phi Kappa Theta.

In my 31 years as a Brother in our Fraternity, I have seen the words and deeds that demonstrate those ideals. As a collegiate brother, I served side by side with young men who built a chapter from the ground up. Who understood that serving society meant more than a social function; it could be hanging the Christmas lights in the town square or working with the University to guide and welcome freshman students. Fraternity leadership is not only holding an executive office but may be as simple as paying your dues on time. I believe in our Catholic heritage but embrace the different approaches to a spiritual life that is the choice of each brother, and serving God takes on many forms as unique as each of us.

As I am more active with Phi Kappa Theta on a national level, I learned that brothers from all across the country shared with me the values of our fraternity, even from places I couldn’t pronounce (“It’s Worcester not Worchester”). In this issue, you will read the stories of those who live our values.

Brothers gathered this summer to develop their leadership skills at our Leadership Institute, which even included a dinner where some were able to climb through a plane.

(Don’t know what I am writing about? Ask a brother who attended). In fact, more opportunities for leadership development will be available on a regional basis this school year.

You will read about a brother who is giving back by helping others find jobs, and profiles of alumni whose commitment to Phi Kappa Theta are inspirational.

This issue also will tell the story of Movember, but more importantly it will tell the stories of our Phi Kappa Theta brothers who have been affected by men’s health issues.

And speaking of Movember, I reissue my challenge about my beard in the picture above.

A beard I have had pretty much since the fall of 1979. I will shave it next October 31, and grow a Fu Manchu mustache (much like our Executive Director Kirk Thomas (Iowa State, ‘76) had in the late 70’s) with one condition: 50% of our chapters must participate in Movember and at least 25 alumni need to sponsor me. I just sharpened my razor.

Yours in the Bonds of Phi Kappa Theta,

Fall 2010 Volume 93, Number 2 MANAGING EDITOR Keith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06) COPY EDITOR Gregory E. Stein (CCNY, ‘70) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bob Forbes (Purdue, ‘70) John Hohenstein (Belmont Abbey, ‘12) Gene Ney (Slippery Rock, ‘90) NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES President Kevin J. Lampe (Western Illinois, ‘83) Vice President Nathan G. Rues (Missouri S&T, ‘01) Treasurer Mark C. Anthony (Georgia Tech, ‘90) Secretary Father Owen J. Mullen (Univ. of San Diego, ‘A) Trustees Dan A. Bureau (Univ. of New Hampshire, ‘94) Larry F. Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68) Joshua J. Gisi (Univ. of Kansas, ‘96) Rick Maggiore (Univ. of Georgia, ‘68) UGAC Chairman Thomas M. Jasper (Univ. of San Diego, ‘11) UGAC Vice Chairman Kevin J. Hakenewerth (Missouri S&T, ‘10) EXECUTIVE OFFICES 9640 North Augusta Drive, Suite 420 Carmel, IN 46032 317.872.9934 FAX: 317.879.1889 executiveoffices@phikaps.org www.phikaps.org EXECUTIVE OFFICES STAFF Executive Vice President Robert W. Riggs (RPI, ‘02) Director of Operations Sarah A. Harris (Indiana Wesleyan University, ‘05)

Kevin Lampe, (Western Illinois, ‘83) National President THE TEMPLE is published twice a year as an educational journal for Phi Kappa Theta members, family and friends.

Postmaster: If undeliverable, please send notice on Form 3579 immediately to Phi Kappa Theta, 9640 North Augusta Drive, Suite 420, Carmel, IN 46032 Submission deadlines are March 1 and September 1 of each year. Brothers and friends are encouraged to provide clippings, releases or notices about themselves or any aspect of Phi Kappa Theta for consideration. All submissions become property of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity.

Pictures cannot be returned. Letters to the Editor will be printed at the discretion of the editor.

Copyright © 2010

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Director of Member Development Anita L. Kerlin (Bowling Green State University, ‘03) Assistant Director of Member Development Gretchen E. Stahl (Valparaiso University, ‘04) Director of Communications and Marketing Keith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06) Accounting Clerk Bill T. Ryan (Indiana University, ‘79) FOUNDATION STAFF Assistant Director of Development Allyson L. Clarkson (Centre College, ‘01)

Contents FALL 2010

On the cover: Brother Thomas Rossi, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of BullEx, Inc.

Features 10 Leadership Institute 2010 Recap of the 2010 Leadership Institute including the 2010 Man of Achievement and award winners.

18 It Happened to Us A story of four Purdue Alumni Brothers and their battles with cancer.

23 A Brand New Journey New “Journey” to arrive at chapters soon. Includes valuable information to help members succeed in Phi Kappa Theta and in life.

25 Tim Clark He discusses his struggles, past and what continues to bring him back to Phi Kappa Theta.

The Vault Room, located inside the St. Louis City Museum, held an off-site event for Phi Kappa Theta at the 2010 Leadership Institute.

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04 Brother Rossi’s Journey Alumnus Tom Rossi connects success in life, marriage and business back to Phi Kappa Theta.

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Phi Kap in Focus

Brother Rossi’s Journey

By Robert Riggs RPI, ‘02 In a Fraternity that has such a rich history, there is no doubt in my mind that our Brothers are as dynamic as our organization. The opportunity to serve on the professional staff has afforded me the privilege of meeting many of these Brothers. Among them is Brother Thomas Rossi (RPI, ’04), whose journey has taken him from participating in a small project in a manufacturing lab to co-founding BullEx, Inc., a company that specializes in fire safety training products.

Knowing what he wants comes naturally to Tom. Even before finishing his junior year of high school, Tom knew that he wanted to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. “Having two uncles who were mechanical engineers really helped me make my decision,” said Rossi.

“After I had the opportunity to shadow them, I knew immediately that I wanted to be a mechanical engineer.” A tour of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s campus solidified his decision that it was the right place for him; he applied immediately and was accepted as an ‘early decision’ candidate.

In the fall of 2000, Tom arrived at Rensselaer’s campus in Troy, NY. Like many of his peers, he was anxious to begin his collegiate experience; being away from familiar friends and family meant the opportunity to begin his own journey.

As with many of the young men entering their collegiate career at Rensselaer, Tom recognized that fraternity life was a major part of the campus culture, and he proceeded to participate in recruitment.

After attending a number of events at Phi Kappa Tau, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Zeta Psi, Tom decided that Phi Kappa Theta - better known as the ‘Ski-Lodge’ - was the right decision for him. “When it came down to it, it just fit right for me,” said Rossi.

“I felt like I had a lot in common with the Brothers, including Brother Riggs and my future big brother Ruben Salazar. I found I had the right connection with the Brothers and I liked the focus of the chapter.” Tom felt so strongly about his connection with Phi Kappa Theta that he began serving as strong advocate for the Brotherhood,

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“I felt like I had a lot in common with the Brothers, including Brother Riggs and my future big brother Ruben Salazar. I found I had the right connection with the Brothers and I liked the focus of the chapter.”

—Thomas Rossi

The BullEx Smartdummy, used for search and rescue training.

even assisting in the recruitment of eight other men from his freshmen dorm. In the spring of 2001, Brother Rossi, along with the other eighteen men in his class, was initiated into the New York Sigma Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta. Tom continued to serve as a leader, holding several offices, including social chair and, in his junior year, Interfraternity Council Vice President for Recruitment.

Although Brother Rossi was deeply involved with the Fraternity, he was also dedicated to his academic education. As a mechanical engineer, he invested much

Above from Left to Right: Thomas Rossi — Chief Operating Officer (RPI, ‘04), Russ Grant — Engineering Manager (RPI, ‘06), Andrew Tsang — Information Technology Associate (RPI, ‘09), Dan Goldman — Director of Software Development (RPI, ‘02) and Jamison Rossel — part of the custom build team (RPI, ‘10).

of his time in engineering design classes and in a manufacturing lab. It was in the manufacturing lab that he met one of the other BullEx co-founders, Ryan O’Donnell. Ryan and John Blackburn, the third co-founder of BullEx, were working on a design project that addressed the serious need for a cost effective method of providing fire extinguisher training. Ryan, a volunteer firefighter, recognized that the current methods of fire extinguisher training were crude, unsafe, and very costly. He and John were working on developing a solution that addressed

all three of these issues. Ryan asked Brother Rossi to join the team to handle the mechanical design and manufacturing of what would eventually become their Intelligent Training System.

The three worked on their design throughout their senior year to create a working prototype. What started as a senior design project would receive a major first break when the team won the Tech Valley Collegiate Business Plan Competition, which provided them with a $30,000 grant to invest in their product.

The grant allowed the team to secure a

Below Left: BullEx’s Pressure Vessel Fire Prop.

Below Middle: BullEx’s Vehicle Fire Training Prop.

Below Right: BullEx’s Stove Fire Training Prop, used for training on commercial stoves.

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BullEx’s first product, the Intelligent Training System.

The Need: Fire extinguisher training is mandated by OSHA for all employers and is heavily enforced in manufacturing, hospitals, the oil and gas industry, and all branches of the military. The old method was to cut a steel drum in half, mix kerosene and diesel fuel, light it on fire, and then train employees to use a dry chemical extinguisher. This method proved to be unsafe, dirty, and very costly.

The Solution: BullEx’s patented Intelligent Training System (I.T.S) eliminated all of those issues. For I.T.S., BullEx modified a standard fire extinguisher into their SmartExtinguisher. Utilizing a mixture of compressed air and water, the SmartExtinguisher mimics the discharge of normal fire extinguishers. Additionally, the SmartExtinguisher emits a directional ultrasonic signal. This signal is picked up by four ultrasonic sensors on the front of the Intelligent Training System base unit.

The on-board microprocessor control system determines exactly where the user is aiming and sweeping. Variable electronic gas valves constantly adjust the amount of propane sent to the burners to simulate the fire’s response to the extinguisher. Bullex’s dynamic flame response algorithms are able to simulate Class A, B, and C fires with different difficulty levels allowing the I.T.S. to train anyone from firefighters to students.

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patent, develop prototypes, and lease space in Rensselaer’s Incubator Center.

After graduating from Rensselaer, Brother Rossi and the other founders utilized their network of local fire departments to secure needed funding.

That funding, paired with initial sales, allowed them to move to Rensselaer’s Tech Park in North Greenbush, NY. While the I.T.S. product was showing promise, it still wasn’t technically the fulltime focus of the three founders. “We were working one hundred plus hour weeks,” said Rossi. All three had to work to support themselves financially while working at BullEx. “I was pursuing a funded M.S. in mechanical engineering at RPI while working at BullEx,” said Rossi. The company secured a third source of external funding by winning the Tech Valley Business Plan Competition, similar to the collegiate version, this time earning a $100,000 grant.

With that grant, they were finally able to fully utilize their marketing plan, further refine their product and manufacturing process, and focus on BullEx full-time. Next, BullEx began to develop their second product line, their HotShot, a version of the original I.T.S. that utilized digital flames instead of propane. “From there, we were able to grow the company organically, launching our second and third product lines, eventually allowing BullEx to sustain itself.”

With BullEx continuing to expand its market and product lines, Brother Rossi often looks to his chapter when hiring interns, co-ops and even full-time employees for BullEx. “Being involved with the Fraternity helped me mature into the balanced man I am today,” said Rossi.

“I know that when I hire Brothers, they will possess those same values that I have as a Brother.” Brother Rossi recognizes that there is a high level of trust he is able

to have with those employees who are Brothers. “I know when I hire a Brother, the company will benefit from an employee with a strong work ethic and who is passionate about the organization.”

When asked what the future holds for BullEx, Brother Rossi stated that BullEx will continue to focus on expanding and improving fire training through its innovative technologies, allowing people to train safely and effectively. “It’s funny, if you asked me three years ago if BullEx would be the company that it is today, I don’t think I would have guessed that,” said Rossi. “I guess if you’d asked me where I wanted to be in 2010 during my freshmen year, I don’t think I would have been able to predict that, either.”

It’s probably fair to say that generations of Phi Kaps can relate to Brother Rossi’s last statement. While many of us entered our collegiate careers unsure of what the future would hold, we have all found our own journeys in life. In the last decade, Brother Rossi’s journey has taken him from a young freshman at Rensselaer to a successful entrepreneur and business owner. “My life, my marriage, and my business would not be the successes they are today were it not for Phi Kappa Theta and New York Sigma.”

Today, BullEx has over 60 employees, products in over 30 countries, and thousands of customers worldwide. BullEx continues to grow and is a global leader in fire training technology. Brother Rossi currently lives in Clifton Park, NY with his wife, Erin.

Visit http://bullexsafety.com for more information about BullEx, Inc.

“I know when I hire a Brother, the company will benefit from an employee with a strong work ethic and who is passionate about the organization.”

—Thomas Rossi

“My life, my marriage, and my business would not be the successes they are today were it not for Phi Kappa Theta and New York Sigma.”

—Thomas Rossi

A President Who Serves Christopher Noble, (WPI, ‘11)

By Gene Ney Slippery Rock ‘90 When you think of presidents, you usually don’t think of someone serving food to the homeless in a soup kitchen, but that’s not the case for Chris Noble.

In fact, Chris has dedicated most of his life to serving others as a means to serve or improve himself. As he puts it, “it is through giving that we receive.”

A native of Norwell, Massachusetts, Chris has always gone out of his way to help others. When the time came to attend college, Chris decided to study electrical engineering and contemplated applying to M.I.T. When he mentioned this to his high school English teacher, his teacher immediately pulled him aside and urged him to apply to Worcester Polytechnic Institute, home of the Massachusetts Lambda chapter.

As a freshman, the thought of Greek life wasn’t all that high on his list of priorities. Although he had nothing against Greek life, Chris was initially more concerned with his grades and adapting to the rigors of university life. Once he became acclimated to life at WPI, Chris began exploring and involving himself with different groups and organizations.

Among those organizations was the Student Government Association at WPI. While doing some work in the SGA office, Chris met Chuck Gammel, who at the time was the SGA president. One day Chuck wore a Phi Kappa Theta shirt into the office, and Chris commented about it.

Chris’ inquiry opened the door for Chuck to share with him the ideals and vision of Phi Kappa Theta.

Among the things that impressed Chris with Phi Kappa Theta aside from academics were strong moral and social values like the ones he grew up with. He was especially impressed with Phi Kappa Theta’s involvement with the SGA, in that five of the past six presidents have been Phi Kaps. Aside from Chuck, other recent past Phi Kap presidents include Adam Wilbur, Sanjayan Mannivannan and Syed Ali. Not long after Chris and Chuck had their discussion, several brothers

Chris Noble, SGA President at WPI.

approached Chris about possibly joining Phi Kappa Theta. At WPI, the bid process is very selective, and the fact that he was asked to join Phi Kappa Theta was a great honor to him. According to Chris, “not everyone at WPI can be a Phi Kap, and everyone knows it.” A member of the fall 2008 pledge class, Chris was initiated as a brother on November 13th of that year.

At Massachusetts Lambda, Chris served in a variety of capacities, including recruitment chair. As recruitment chair, Chris gained experience going out meeting, talking and working with all types of people. Through his contacts in Phi Kappa Theta, he also moved up in the SGA with his election to the position of President in November of 2009. As President, he works with 40 elected officers who represent the student body. He also allocates $900,000 each year in funds to support over 100 student groups on campus. According to Chris, “this is an awesome responsibility and it takes quite a bit of skill to work with a very diverse group of people. Everyone wants money.

Part of my success to work with different people comes from my experience at Phi Kappa Theta where a diverse group of brothers comes together as one.”

Chris also sees his brothers and his chapter as a “way to relax and get away from all the tension that the presidential role involves. When I go to the house, I can relax and be myself.” One of his favorite

forms of relaxation is to play basketball or video games with his brothers. He also looks forward to all of the community and social service projects that Massachusetts Lambda participates in. Although the chapter has done volunteer work in the past for Habitat for Humanity, this year they are working at a Washington, D.C. homeless shelter where they are serving meals to the less fortunate. According the Chris,

“I am a better person today because of Phi Kappa Theta.”

—Chris Noble “this has been a very moving experience.

If you take time to talk to these people who are poor and homeless, there’s a lot you can learn from them. You can understand where they are coming from, and you can also learn from their mistakes.”

Chris’ term as SGA President ends in January, and he anticipates graduation next spring. When he leaves WPI, he will take a wealth of academics and enriching social experiences that “I attribute directly to Phi Kappa Theta at WPI. I am a better person today because of Phi Kappa Theta.”

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Letters to the Editor I just finished reading the last issue of the Temple and really enjoyed it. It has become much more attractive and informative over the years. I noticed with great interest a photo of an alumni group. I am a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison where I was a member of Lambda Chapter. In the late 1940’s and early 1950’s there was a group of fellows in the chapter that have continued to get together once a year. We usually meet in Watertown, WI at the home of Joe Darcey for dinner and a sign-along on Friday, a Badger football game on TV on Saturday and mass on Sunday morning.

We have done this for over 20 years and reminisce each year. Enclosed is a photo of this year’s event.

Thought you might be interested and keep up the good work.

Yours in Phi Kappa Theta Roger Rupnow University of Wisconsin, Madison ‘51

Please send feedback, congratulatory or constructive, about The Temple! We would love to hear your thoughts.

keith@phikaps.org Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity Attn: The Temple Managing Editor 9640 North Augusta Drive, Suite 420 Carmel, IN 46032

Regional Leadership Conferences This year Phi Kappa Theta will host four Regional Leadership Conferences in January. Unlike in past years where there have been separate Presidents Academies, Chapter Presidents will now attend their own educational track at the Regional Conference that their chapter attends.

Please see the map below to determine which Regional Conference you will attend. Please note that the Eastern Region will host two conferences simultaneously and you should attend the one nearest to your chapter.

Eastern Regional

East Central Regional

West Central Regional

Date: January 7-9

Date: January 21-23

Date: January 28-30

Location 1: Refreshing Mountain Camp, Stevens, PA

Location: Jameson Camp, Indianapolis, IN

Location: Wilderness Retreat and Development Center, Lawson, MO

Location 2: BecketChimney Corners YMCA, Becket, MA

Cost and registration information is available at www.phikaps.org

Red States = Eastern Regional Leadership Conference Yellow States = East Central Regional Leadership Conference Green States = West Central Regional Leadership Conference

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It all starts with

Ph1 Kappa Theta Nat1onal Convent1on 2011 / August 4-7 H1lton 1nd1anapol1s Hotel & Su1tes / 1nd1anapol1s, 1N Visit www.phikaps.org for registration details.

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By Anita Kerlin Director of Member Development

A Successful Institute Helps Educate Members in Fraternity and Life Leadership Institute, 2010 was held this summer in St. Louis, Missouri. All but one chapter of Phi Kappa Theta was in attendance and over 150 members attended this highly anticipated event. Trainings were held in each developmental area and ranged from hands on life skills training to traditional Ritual Exemplification.

This year a drive was held to support a local charity and many attendees pitched in to support the cause. Members were also treated to an evening out of the hotel at the City Museum where they had an opportunity to explore one of the city’s most unique attractions. Luckily this year many of our attendees completed surveys that will comprise this review of Leadership Institute, 2010.

Thursday – State of the Fraternity and the City Museum

The conference opened with a presentation from National President Kevin Lampe (Western Illinois, ‘83), followed by a financial report from Mark Anthony (Missouri-Rolla, ‘01), our National Treasurer. Next, the brothers heard from Max Jasper (University of San Diego, ‘11) of the Undergraduate Activities Committee. He outlined potential legislation that may come to the floor of the 2011 Indianapolis Convention.

He encouraged the members present to dialogue with the UGAC over the coming school year. All of the members who attended the State of the Fraternity found the information presented to them to be helpful to their roles in Phi Kappa Theta.

One brother wrote that it was “A real inside look to how the Fraternity stands and looks outside of the individual chapters

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walls. I liked that it was the first event when we got there. As a newer brother, and someone who has never been to such a conference, going to a presentation about the scope of the fraternity as one of the first events, really set the tone.” Many brothers commented that they appreciated learning where the Fraternity is nationally and how that relates to the individual chapter.

They appreciate gaining information about where we are financially and where we wish to be in the future as an organization.

After the State of the Fraternity, members were bussed over to the City Museum where they enjoyed a catered dinner in the Vault Room of the City Museum. Afterwards, they were free to explore and play in the museum for a few hours before heading back. Several members of all ages commented that it was the most fun that they had all summer.

People raved about the food and the venue all evening. This event received very high praise and was obviously well enjoyed by all of the attendees and their families. It was a great opportunity for everybody to get out of the hotel, see something unique to St. Louis and enjoy doing something fun as a brotherhood.

Friday – Spiritual and Social Development

Steven Fowler, one of the new Alumnus Initiates, also presented on Spiritual Development. He discussed concepts like the difference between spirituality and religion and stressed the importance of tolerance and understanding for all beliefs. He helped our members identify how to incorporate the spiritual value or our organization into our everyday lives and into our chapter’s inner workings.

The members who attended this session were quite pleased with his ability to discuss such a personal topic with such knowledge without being “preachy.” One member noted “I appreciated the way he presented the information – without cramming religion or a certain belief

Top Left: The Millennium Hotel hosted Phi Kappa Theta.

Top Middle: Members show their letters at an off-site event.

Top Right: Brother Jamie Walter (Lehigh, ‘13) showing some enthusiasm at registration.

down my throat.” Another noted, “It was a great summation of what it really means to be spiritual.” A third member felt that the presentation “Hit home and really encouraged us to dig back to our roots.”

Next was the program that attendees were talking about for the rest of the conference – Etiquette Training with Anthony Cawdron. Anthony has quite an extensive background in the Hospitality industry including serving as a Butler in two of England’s finest stately homes; Blenheim Palace and Sutton Palace.

Attendees overwhelmingly agreed that this presentation was entertaining and useful both in their roles for Phi Kappa Theta and in their personal lives. Many members commented that he took a relatively stuffy topic and made it fun and relatable.

Anthony reviewed everything from event invitations to table etiquette and attire.

Mr. Cawdron’s talk was accompanied by a formal setting of silver, glass and table ware which he referenced during his lively talk. He also provided a hand out to each attendee summarizing his remarks complete with diagrams. After his presentation, he joined us for lunch where he continued to coach us through the meal and answer any questions that came while we were dining.

The afternoon concluded with Ritual Exemplification. This year it was held in the Old Cathedral, which is within minutes of the hotel and is the first and oldest Catholic cathedral west of the Mississippi River. Members gathered at the Cathedral to see three new Phi Kaps initiated into the brotherhood.

Visual Rundown

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01: The St. Louis Arch, Ritual was held at the Cathedral in the foreground.

02: Etiquette training was given by Anthony Cawdron.

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03. Executive Vice President Rob Riggs sits with Collegiate Members 04: St. Louis written in stone at the City Museum.

05: Competition shirt 06: Man of Achievement Luncheon

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07: The City Museum, formerly a shoe factory, still possessed 10-story spiral shoe shoots that have been converted into slides.

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08: The City Museum hosted Phi Kappa Theta for an offsite event.

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09: Brother John Wojtasek (UNL, ‘12) engaged in conversation.

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10. Sessions encouraged members to ask questions and interact.

11: Collegiate sessions included car repair 12: Max Jasper (University of San Diego, ‘11) represented the Collegiate members in the donation battle.

13: The City Museum had an impressive display of antiques from all over the world.

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Saturday – Alumni Training

Alumni training was focused on the importance of our alumni understanding the organizational values and how to instill that in our members. Rob Riggs started out by discussing the Mission and how we can incorporate our values into our everyday lives. Adam Wilbur and Nick Pelletier, both alumnus members from WPI, spent the afternoon discussing coaching and mentoring. They utilized case studies and real life examples from higher education resources and from Phi Kappa Theta’s history. Of those who attended the training, they found the information to be useful for their roles in Phi Kappa Theta and the content of the programs to be engaging and important. The alumni also had an opportunity to select a breakout session to discuss housing issues or chapter rehabilitation. Both breakouts were well attended and received very positive feedback.

Saturday – Collegiate Training

Lenny Chan (Slippery Rock, ‘95) helped participants reframe the way they understand leadership by discussing the idea of followership. The concept was fascinating and discussed how being a leader doesn’t mean much if you don’t have anybody following you. Feedback shows that the attendees found the information learned in this program very beneficial both for their lives outside the Fraternity and for their roles in the organization. Members appreciated the different perspective on leadership and noted that it was different from any take on

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leadership that they have heard before.

Being a great leader often catapults you into success after college, so how better to be prepared than some training on networking. Once again, members found useful information in this program for both their personal lives and their roles in Phi Kappa Theta. Gretchen Stahl discussed the importance of networking and communication both in preparation for the business world but also while in college.

She reminded everybody that the way you portray yourself now, especially on social media, may linger and be used to represent you in years to come. Members were particularly appreciative of the attention paid to social networking and how that can affect your future.

Collegiate Breakouts

On Saturday afternoon, collegiate members were allowed to “choose their own adventure” through the breakout model. There were multiple hands on life skills training sessions happening at the same time and members could choose to attend the sessions that they felt would best benefit them or their chapter. Breakouts ranged from Car Maintenance and Clothing Care to Buying Your First Home and Life Success with Finances. The breakout sessions were well attended and very engaging. All attendees also received the book “Life After School Explained” from the Fraternity. This book is full of helpful information, some of which was covered in the training sessions, and some of which was not.

Giving Back

A major addition to the Leadership Institute this year was a charity drive to support a local organization called Annie Malone’s and their Transitional Program. Their Transitional Program was created to help young teens who are left unadopted transition from life in the group homes to life on their own once they turn 18. Not only does the program provide items donated by drives like ours but they also provide educational programming and training to help them prepare for living life on their own and for many of them, finding their first job. This year we asked all attendees to bring new household items such as towels, sheets, blankets and detergent to donate. Through the extremely generous donations of our members, we were able to donate over $2,000 worth of merchandise to Annie Malone.

01: The membership of Phi Kappa Theta at the 2010 Leadership Institute.

02: Foundation President Stephen Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82) was honored with The Distinguished Service Award.

03: Representative’s from Annie Malone pose for a photo with staff and members.

04: The 2010 Founders Cup. 05: WPI, winners of the 2010 Founders Cup. 06: Past Distinguished Service Award recipients with Stephen Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82).

07: National Vice President Nathan Rues’ (Missouri S&T, ‘01) Bottle Cap Art.

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Intellectual Development Excellence Award

• Winner: Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Runner Up 1: Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

• Runner Up 2: Missouri Mu – Missouri University of Science and Technology

• Honorable Mention:

o Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

o Pennsylvania Tau – Saint Francis University

o North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

Michael T. McSweeney Leadership Development Award

• Winner: Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

• Runner Up: Massachusetts Eta – Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Honorable Mention:

o Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

o Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

o Missouri Mu – Missouri University of Science and Technology

o North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

John F. Kennedy Member Development Programming Award

• Winner: Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

• Runner Up: Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

• Honorable Mention:

o Massachusetts Eta – Massachusetts Institute of Technology

o Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

o Missouri Mu – Missouri University of Science and Technology

o North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

• Winner: Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Runner Up: Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

• Honorable Mention:

o Illinois Kappa Phi – Lewis University

o Massachusetts Eta – Massachusetts Institute of Technology

o Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

o Pennsylvania Alpha Xi – Duquesne University

Foundar’s Cup

• Massachusetts Lambda - Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Most Improved Chapter Award

• Winner: North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

• Honorable Mentions:

o Missouri Kappa Kappa – Saint Louis University

o Texas Gamma Sigma – Texas A&M University

Spiritual Development Excellence Award

• Winner: North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

• Runner Up: Missouri Kappa Kappa – Saint Louis University

• Honorable Mention:

o Iowa Xi – Iowa State University

o Massachusetts Kappa Theta – University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth

Social Development Excellence Award

• Winner: Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

• Runner Up: Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Honorable Mention:

o Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

o Missouri Kappa Kappa – Saint Louis University

o North Carolina Alpha Rho – Belmont Abbey College

Fraternal Development Excellence Award

• Winner: Kansas Iota – Kansas State University

• Runner Up: Massachusetts Lambda – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Honorable Mention:

o Massachusetts Eta – Massachusetts Institute of Technology

o Pennsylvania Alpha – Lehigh University

o Pennsylvania Alpha Xi – Duquesne University

2010 Leadership Institute Award Winners

God and College ~ God and Country Judge Edward Sweeney (Mizzou, ‘69), 22nd U.S. Circuit Court Judge, Honored as 2010 Man of Achievement

By Gene Ney Slippery Rock ‘90

Above Left: Edward Sweeney giving his acceptance speech at the 2010 Leadership Institute.

Many years ago, Phi Kappa Theta’s motto was “God and College.” Judge Edward Sweeney’s motto may, or could have been “God and college and country.”

Edward Sweeney, 22nd Judicial Circuit Court Judge, St. Louis, Missouri, is a Phi Kap from the University of Missouri at Columbia. A brother of Missouri Kappa Upsilon, Ed Sweeney has grown into a position which epitomizes the goals of the Phi, the Kappa and the Theta.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Ed pledged Missouri Kappa Upsilon during his freshman year in the fall of 1965.

As an undergraduate in the mid to late 1960’s, Ed actively involved himself in the operations of our Kappa Upsilon chapter.

As an undergraduate, he initially was elected to the position of secretary and then rose to the position of president during his junior and senior year. The 1960’s and especially the late 1960’s was a very challenging period for the United States, as well as for fraternities in general.

One of the issues and one of the challenges that Ed first encountered as he was elected into an administrative position was the issue of multicultural diversity. Prior to the mid and late 1960’s, diversity was something that didn’t exist. It was during Ed’s undergraduate involvement that Phi Kappa Theta dropped the “Catholic only clause,” however, for Kappa Upsilon, the greatest challenge may have been to incorporate multiculturalism into his chapter.

At that time, “people of color” were rarely accepted into fraternal organizations, especially in the south. It was through the efforts of Ed Sweeney and the brothers of Missouri Kappa Upsilon at the University of Missouri at Columbia that fraternal history was made. Missouri

Kappa Upsilon offered a bid to a young African-American by the name of Jonathan Staggers to the chapter. Jon, whose father had been a football player and was also a coach at Lincoln University, decided he wanted to broaden his horizons and applied at University of Missouri, Columbia. As a student, he attended a rush event that the chapter had, and a bid was extended to him. Aside from the fact that this was a first at the University of Missouri, Columbia, this also shook up the entire Greek community. Jon pledged Phi Kappa Theta and went on to a successful football career following his graduation.

He was recruited by then rookie coach Chuck Noll of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970 and played under Noll’s leadership in the Pittsburgh nation’s dynasty for several years.

According to brother Sweeney, “my biggest challenge and accomplishment was to bring a sense of diversity and multiculturalism to the chapter.” It was through Sweeney’s leadership and that of his fellow brothers at Missouri Kappa Upsilon that the entire Greek system at the university began to integrate and move into the twentieth century.

At the time of his graduation, the United States was in the throes of the Vietnam War, and Sweeney was drafted into the military. A second lieutenant in the ROTC program at Missouri, Columbia Sweeney was deployed to Vietnam for one year starting in July of 1970, Following his one year tour of duty,

Above Right: Edward Sweeney with Foundation President, Stephen Hollander.

Sweeney returned to the University of Missouri, Columbia and was accepted into the School of Law during the fall semester of 1971. After practicing law in St. Louis for several years, Sweeney was appointed by the governor of Missouri as an associate circuit court judge in December of 1997 which handles smaller or misdemeanor cases. In January of 2005, he was promoted by the governor as a circuit court judge where he hears cases of a much more serious nature.

According to Sweeney, “Phi Kappa Theta has had a profound impact on my life. Phi Kappa Theta has made me the man I am today.”

What Sweeney sees as Phi Kappa Theta’s greatest challenge today is to be open minded and look toward the future. In Sweeney’s words, “Phi Kappa Theta must look forward, and must be open to change. A fraternity that does not change with the times will cease to exist.”

When not practicing law, Ed Sweeney lives in the St. Louis area with his wife and children. An avid bowler who came from a family of bowlers and bowling alley owners, he likes to bowl in his free time.

He is also a fan of golf; unfortunately, his schedule does not permit as much of that as he would like. Brother Edward Sweeney encourages all Phi Kaps to look towards the future and hold an open mind.

“My biggest challenge and accomplishment was to bring a sense of diversity and multiculturalism to the chapter.”

—Edward Sweeney

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William Grogan An Advisor for All Seasons

By Gene Ney Slippery Rock ‘90 When it comes to Phi Kappa Theta and Advisors, one would be remiss not to mention Bill Grogan (WPI, ‘46). Grogan’s involvement with Phi Kappa Theta (or Theta Kappa Phi as it was called then) can be traced back to the fall of 1942 when he arrived on the campus of Worcester Polytechnic Institute as a naval engineering student just nine months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Although he did not live in the WPI house, Grogan was initiated as a brother in 1943. The World War II era was a very difficult time for fraternities as most college age men had been drafted and were serving overseas at the time. In fact, at WPI all but 4 fraternities had closed, and those which survived did so through the efforts of the local alumni. In the case of Theta Kappa Phi, the alumni made ends meet by renting space in the house out to non brothers.

Following graduation, Grogan was sent to San Diego in preparation for an invasion of Japan. Over one million casualties were expected on both sides, and Grogan left on this assignment like so many others with the thought that they probably would not be returning.

However, on September 6, 1945, the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima and several days later on Nagasaki, Japan.

This mass destruction led to the Japanese surrender 12 days later.

With the end of World War II, there was a massive influx of young men back to the states, and through the G.I. Bill, those who had served in the armed forces were provided tuition assistance to colleges and universities. As a result, fraternities now grew significantly in size. Not only did membership increase phenomenally, the caliber of the membership changed as well.

Membership included former high ranking as well as low ranking military officers which also brought a sense of military and discipline into the Greek System. It was at this point that Grogan returned to WPI to begin graduate studies in electrical

engineering. Not long after earning his degree, he was called again to serve in the Korean War. Grogan eventually found himself at WPI as an electrical engineering faculty member, and eventually rose to the position of Academic Dean. Although now retired from WPI, Grogan still serves as a professor emeritus and chapter advisor for the Massachusetts Lambda Chapter at WPI. In fact, this fall marks his 58th anniversary as the chapter advisor. According to Grogan, Greek life has changed significantly since he first became involved with the fraternity back in the early 1940’s. In his opinion, “the golden years for fraternities were during the 1950’s and 60’s, with members dressed in coats and ties and lots of formalities.” However in his opinion, with the onset of the Viet Nam War in the late 1960’s, “fraternities got a bad reputation. They were seen as part of the establishment and closed minded.”

After Viet Nam, fraternities desperate for membership let people in who did not belong. He feels that during the late 1970’s and 80’s, “fraternities became plagued with issues involving illegal drugs, alcohol abuse and hazing.”

Unfortunately, Massachusetts Lambda also became infected with those societal ills, and as a result the chapter was closed for a period of time. Today, the chapter operates successfully as a substance free house with strict membership requirements. For example, the chapter does not pledge freshmen, and will not accept anyone with less than a 3.0 grade point average. Members are expected to participate in academic as well as social action programs like the Habitat for Humanity. Grogan stresses that despite the fact that the chapter is substance free, the brothers still have a good time with a pub and other social venues located in close proximity to the house.

Nationally, Grogan served two terms as President. As the national president of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity, Grogan was the driving force to remove the “Catholic’s only” clause from the constitution. Imbued by the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, Grogan felt that Phi Kappa Theta should “accept men of good character from all religions, yet still maintain our Catholic

“It is the duty of each Phi Kap to pass the torch along to another generation.”

—William Grogan

based heritage.” He believes that a broad and diverse membership is crucial for Phi Kappa Theta to succeed in the modern world. According to Grogan, “it is the duty of each Phi Kap to pass the torch along to another generation.”

Needless to say, Brother Bill Grogan has played a crucial role in Phi Kappa Theta’s history, not only at Massachusetts Lambda, but throughout the entire national organization. His commitment to serve beyond the undergraduate level should serve as an inspiration to all undergraduates and alumni as well.

Top: William Grogan as seen in his 19611965 Executive Vice President photo on display at the National Office.

Above: William Grogan (WPI, ‘46)

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It Happened to Us By the Purdue Class of ‘70 and Larry Furlong Mississippi, ‘71 In February 1967, forty- two young men became the newest pledges (now called AMs) of Phi Kappa Theta at Purdue University (Right). During their pledgeship they bonded together into one of the best classes ever to be initiated at Purdue. In almost everything they attempted, they excelled. They thought they could beat anyone or anything; they were on the top of the world.

Graduation came and only 24 of those 42 young men became initiated alumni members of the fraternity. Off to the real world they marched, off to the four corners of the world. In time, two members of that class passed away and the remaining members now live in 11 states from Alabama to California. This geographic dispersal made it hard to keep in touch and difficult to maintain the bonds that were once so strong in their college days. Some would see each other every couple of years here or there and twice many of them came together for a formal reunion. But in the main, most of them have been living their own individual lives.

Over a two year period, the lives of four brothers from this class were to be threatened by prostate cancer. Each would have to personally struggle with his mortality, his own version of the disease and his own circumstances. That is the nature of prostate cancer: it is very personal. And yet, each would find that the bonds of brotherhood were strong enough to help with the decision that each brother now faced. And they all would give to each other, for no other reason than they were brothers.

Statistics tell you that one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer sometime in his lifetime. For the 22 still living members of this pledge class that would mean three to four men. In December 2005, the first member was diagnosed at the age of 57. In time, he made his decision to undergo radiation treatment, was treated and has remained cancer free since. His advice to anyone with a prostate cancer diagnosis is to “spend time on the internet and consider a second opinion; it is more important to

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make the right decision than to rush into treatment.”

The next spring, Bob Forbes (Purdue, ‘70) went in for his annual checkup.

His PSA (a common test for prostate cancer) had risen fast Indiana Zeta (Purdue) Class of 1970. Four of these men would face enough to prostate cancer over a two year period. cause his urologist to operation and passed on practical tips for recommend a biopsy—which confirmed the recovery as did the first pledge brother. his cancer. Bob talked to his previously Of his experience he said “The support diagnosed pledge brother, read books and of fraternity brothers was key. You could spent time researching treatment options tell them things you wouldn’t likely tell before ultimately deciding on Da Vinci anyone else. It was a great brotherhood robotic surgery. He is now cancer free; experience.” He also got plenty of support his PSA tests return a value of “too low from his family and the to measure.” He also men and women at the recommends taking time plant where he worked. to explore all options.

He repaid the support of “Prostate cancer is a his workers by talking very personal cancer to all the men about his in that it affects your cancer and how they lifestyle and that of should get tested. It your family.” He also turned out that seven of recommends that any his workers had cancer affected married man that they were not aware talk it over with his of and could then be spouse: “She will be treated. affected also, so include In December 2007, her in the decision.”

Brother Forbes got a As Bob was call from Mel Mahoney undergoing the (Purdue, ‘70) –another surgeon’s scalpel, a third of his pledge brothers. member of his class Mel’s PSA had doubled was diagnosed. Bob Rutkowski (Purdue, in a year and a biopsy had just confirmed ‘70) also underwent a steep rise in his PSA his cancer. “I contacted Brother Forbes and a confirming biopsy before receiving to get his thoughts since I knew that he his diagnosis. “I was 58 at the time - very had gone through the process a few years young for prostate cancer. However, the earlier.” Mel eventually chose a Da Vinci number one causal factor is a father who robotic removal of his prostate and had the had it, mine did.” He had heard of his speediest return to a normal life of the four first pledge brother’s cancer and reached pledgemates. Commenting on it, he stated out to him and also learned of Brother “Although my wife and I were initially Forbes’ cancer. He talked extensively to prepared to face life however it might be both and also his spouse. “My wife was a following the surgery, I’m happy to say surgery nurse for 20 yrs. For her, it was a that nothing much has changed.” no brainer: Get the cancer out of our body Think this was only a coincidence?

ASAP - surgery is the way to go.” Late It also happened elsewhere. Consider that summer he underwent a traditional Larry Furlong, (Mississippi, ‘71), and prostatectomy and by Thanksgiving his his experience. He was diagnosed in life was returning to normal. Brother November 2004 and initially was hesitant Forbes was by now recovering from his to accept the diagnosis: “I decided to tell

“The support of fraternity brothers was key. You could tell them things you wouldn’t likely tell anyone else. It was a great brotherhood experience.”

—Bob Forbes

my friends and family about the diagnosis.

It was more therapy for me than anything else. I began researching treatment options and got some invaluable help from an old friend of mine who had been treated for prostate cancer several years ago.” He ultimately underwent successful radiation treatment but adds “I am sorry to say that since my diagnosis three other of my chapter brothers have also been diagnosed.

They had much more difficult treatments than I had including a post operation problem that nearly cost one brother his life. Two are still in the treatment phase.”

He also shared his experiences with his brothers during their time of decision.

Four pledge classmates within a twenty two month span and four more from another chapter all facing a life changing decision. Each arrived at his decision in his own manner as befits this personal cancer. Some reached out to their brothers and friends and helped each other

by talking openly about their cancer, their decision, answered questions and gave practical advice on how to recover from their cancer. For each, it was a brotherhood building event that deepened the bonds that were first formed nearly 40 years before.

One of the keys to facing a decision about prostate cancer is talking – to a spouse, a good friend or to a brother.

Brothers Bob Forbes (rofor2@ earthlink.net), Bob Rutkowski (rrr1966@gmail.com), Mel Mahoney (MMah63005@charter.net) or Larry Furlong (lfurlong1@cfl.rr.com) will be glad to talk to any brother who is facing what to do about a diagnosis of prostate cancer. You can also learn more about men’s health at www.movember.com, Phi Kappa Theta has teamed up with Movember to help members learn more about the issue of men’s health.

“Prostate cancer is a very personal cancer in that it affects your lifestyle and that of your family.”

—Bob Forbes

The four prostate cancer survivors from Purdue, ‘70 at Homecoming this year.

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NEWS FROM YOU

Georgia Tech Homecoming Reconnects Brothers

Missouri Mu Holds Memorial Golf Tournament in St. Louis

“The Weekend” Yearly Event Another Success

Alumni and Collegiate members gathered for an extremely satisfying homecoming weekend. Friday saw several Alumni attending a late night cocktail party. Saturday’s tailgating festivities saw 20-30 Alumni in attendance. Spirits were extremely high as the game rolled around and a team victory made things even better.

Alumni won the Collegiate/Alumni football game Sunday. Following the game, stories were told, an impromptu jazz session was held and games were played before a chapter meeting. The meeting was very successful. Behrouz Kianian (Georgia Tech, ‘05) was reelected as Vice President and Patrick Wiseman (Georgia Tech, ‘09) took over for alumni Treasurer.

Over 110 alumni and friends of the Missouri Mu chapter turned out for the 2010 Doc O’Keefe Memorial Golf Tournament on October 8th. Participants enjoyed a perfect Fall day at the Missouri Bluffs Golf Club in St. Charles, Missouri.

The annual tournament is named in honor of long time chapter advisor Tom ‘Doc’ O’Keefe. This year’s record turnout brought alumni together from as far away as Orlando and New Orleans and from as far back as 1944. The tournament benefits the Order of Cardinal Mercier Educational Endowment Fund which provides scholarships to the members of Missouri S&T’s Phi Kappa Theta chapter.

“The Weekend” is an annual golf event held the weekend before Memorial Day weekend. This year marked the 47th Weekend gathering of the NY Alpha Eta at Manhattan College. The Villa Vosilla hosted this year’s event in the Catskill Mountains.

Mass was held Saturday evening, celebrated by the chapter’s own Fr. Erwin Schweigardt. Ralph Noble (Manhattan College, ‘52) one of the founding Fathers of the Alpha Eta Chapter was honored. The band “The Tune Weavers” performed just as they did for the chapter in 1947.

Next years “The Weekend” event will be held at The Albergo Allegria, a Bed and Breakfast in Windham, NY located in the Catskills.

Continuing Education Opportunity Monthly Online Roundtable Discussions with Phi Kappa Theta On the third Wednesday of each month from 8-9PM EST Phi Kappa Theta will host an online roundtable where Collegiate and Alumni members are invited to gather to discuss and learn about varying topics. November will be our first month and will feature the topic “Elections and officer transitions.”

Wednesday, November 17th, 2010 8-9PM EST

Discussion topics will rotate throughout the year based on requests from our members and needs based on important happenings in the organization.

To register please visit http://phikaps.org/newsevents/

Contact Anita Kerlin, Director of Member Development at anita@phikaps.org with questions.

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Kansas City Alumni Gatherings Brothers from the Iowa State and surrounding Chapters gathered on October 13th for a low key gathering.

These gatherings have been occurring once a month since 2009. Roughly 12 to 25 members from various chapters including Iowa State, Missouri, Kansas, Kansas State, Truman State, Ferris State, Georgia and Missouri S&T come out and participate. Brothers interested in attending future events should contact Paul Peterson at peterson13@kc.rr.com

“Give, expecting nothing thereof,” with a hint of employment: A Phi Kap Alum Helps Collegiates find Jobs

By John Hohenstein Belmont Abbey, ‘12 The motto of Phi Kappa Theta is being given a new meaning and becoming the essence of business resumes in the DC Area.

Tom Moore is a 2006 graduate of George Mason University and since his freshman year of college, he has been in touch with over 200 companies’ internship and employment offices. Leaving college with a degree in International Politics and a minor in Business, Moore was qualified for any job he desired – but he was not in touch with these companies to find himself a job. Tom is the co-founder of a business called ROCS Jobs. ROCS, or Responsible Outgoing College Students, was launched in 2003 and in seven years has successfully placed over 700 students and college graduates in entry-level positions from internships to full-time employment. In addition to being a proud college graduate and the co-founder and co-CEO of one of the most unique businesses in the country, Tom Moore is also a brother of the Virginia Gamma Mu chapter of Phi Kappa Theta.

Moore, who decided to rush Phi Kappa Theta his freshman year at George Mason, immediately felt the impact of his brothers with his involvement with the Fraternity.

“They were definitely not the typical fraternity; everyone seemed to be an individual with their own interests but at the same time following the motto, ‘Give, expecting nothing thereof,’” And Moore says that impression of the Brotherhood is what stuck with

him through troubling times – both in academics and while starting his groundbreaking business at the age of 19.

Through the stress of finals and the pangs of business plight, Tom would remember what he was taught as an Associate Member:

“Becoming a brother of Phi Kappa Theta has truly been a great experience both from the social side of things, but also maturing as an adult.” ­—Tom Moore “I would just think back and remember what the brothers taught us [the motto] and would just remember those words; to just think of the big picture.”

And even when the business was seeing rough times, Tom gladly admits that his Phi Kap Brothers are the men who were there for him, helping him hand out flyers, doing massive amounts of letter mailings and even helping recruit potential clients. Through his experiences in the Brotherhood, Moore learned the basics of running a successful business. When it came to developing his business to the fullest with his partner, the Fraternity came to his aid once again: through the attendance of a Presidential Leadership Conference during his junior year of college. “It was a great learning experience on dealing with people from management to leadership. I was definitely able to take away many aspects that I apply to my business, even today.”

And that’s exactly what ROCS helps to develop in young college students and strives its clients to emphasize when on the job hunt: Leadership. Although there are almost one thousand students and graduates that have come to Moore’s company for assistance, Tom also tells of how ROCS is brought on the team of small and large businesses alike to help form job descriptions and help recruit employees.

Top: Tom Moore, helping Collegiate members receive employment.

Left: Tom vacationing in Greece wearing his ROCS Jobs shirt.

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Top: The logo of Tom Moore’s company; ROCS, or Responsible Outgoing College Students.

The ROCS team recently delved into their database of undergrads and graduates and helped two young men kick start their career in Information Technology sales, one of the fastest growing industries this year.

“We also helped a graduate student get a job starting off as a part-time executive assistant to a Fortune 500 client.

When he graduated with his master’s, they were so impressed with the work he had accomplished with the company policies that they created him a position where he reported directly to the CEO of the company.” Tom says when asked to recall one of their most memorable success stories.

ROCS truly is a product of the Phi Kappa Theta pillars. Moore and

his business partner “We also helped a graduate continually give to student get a job starting the college students who come looking for off as a part-time executive guidance in transitioning into the workforce. assistant to a Fortune 500 Through their continuous client. When he graduated efforts and their small battle against the with his master’s, they unemployment rate, Moore has continually were so impressed with the kept the motto of Phi work he had accomplished Kappa Theta in mind.

ROCS keeps true to with the company policies itself, has challenged the intellect of its clients, that they created him a and has found some of position where he reported its roots in a tradition of Brotherhood. directly to the CEO of the Tom says that “Becoming a brother company.” of Phi Kappa Theta — Tom Moore has truly been a great experience both from the social side of things, but also maturing as an adult,” and Tom is using his involvement as a Phi Kap to help transform other collegiates. ROCS Jobs’ co-CEO

Phi Kappa Theta Chapter “Sitelets” Phi Kappa Theta recognizes the need to create a consistent brand and image. For this reason, the Fraternity has developed chapter-based websites for chapters. These “sitelets” provide chapters with: • A professional online presence for their audience.

• Maintenance, content and support from the professional staff.

• Direct link to the National events posted on your site.

• Up-to-date news and events from the National Fraternity.

This is a fee-based service provided by the National Fraternity (through the Executive Office). These sitelets will eventually sync up with the Achieve Application.

For more information visit the Resources tab on phikaps.org View a mock up of what your chapter’s website could look like: http://base.phikaps.org/

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and co-founder continues to be an inspiration to current brothers everywhere by showing what being a true Brother means: to always give your best to others, even if you don’t plan on getting anything in return, The essence and motto of Phi Kappa Theta.

A Brand New Journey

B

C

New “Journey” to Arrive at Chapters Soon

By Greg Stein CCNY, ‘70

E

D

A

A newly revised “Journey”, our associate member manual given to all associate members when they register with the national fraternity, is going to print this fall. It will be the 17th edition in the fraternity’s history. This version is edited by staff members Anita Kerlin and Gretchen Stahl and by Tim Clark (U.of Iowa,’93), who also edited the last edition, issued in 2001.

“The current manual is ten years old, and the world, the collegiate world, the fraternity world and Phi Kappa Theta have all changed.” said Executive Vice President Rob Riggs (RPI,’02). This edition places emphasis on the strategic plan and the five areas of personal development. It also more concretely explains an individual’s responsibility in and to Phi Kappa Theta.

Of course, it has many elements of past editions, with adequate space given to our histories, organizational structure, parliamentary procedure and etiquette. But it now includes more detailed accounts of the fraternal, intellectual, social, spiritual and leadership ideals. It also includes for the first time almost twenty web sites that the members can use to research topics in greater depth, ranging from study habits to how to knot a tie.

The manual keeps the name it has had since the 3rd edition in 1974. Why a journey? Is it because this may be the first time a college freshman leaves home for an extended period? Is it a venture through uncharted waters? Is it a real journey in space and time? It is probably all those.

But it could also be a shift on a continuum from selfishness to selflessness. Think of a baby who innocently thinks the world revolves around him at one end and Christ, who gave all of Himself for others on the other end. Wherever the AM finds himself on this continuum, it is one of the main purposes of Phi Kappa Theta to guide him on that journey.

F

G

A: The Journey was originally called a Pledge Manual.

B: The updated 1st Edition of the Pledge Manual.

C: The 3rd Edition of the Journey, copywrite 1974. Now called “The Journey”.

D: The 6th Edition of the Journey, copywrite1974.

E: The 13th Edition of the Journey, copywrite 1998.

F: The current Journey, created in 2000, the 16th Edition.

G: The 2010 Journey, 17th Edition.

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FOUNDATION

Chapter Accounts Below is a list of the 13 chapters that maintain accounts with the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation and their dollar value as of June 30, 2010. The money is for the chapter’s exclusive use but is professionally managed by the same firm that manages the Foundation’s other assets. These funds are available for educational purposes only.

Contributions may be made at any time. If you would like more information about an existing account, or would like to set up an account for your chapter, please contact us at foundationstaff@phikaps.org or call 317 872 9934, ext 2504.

Cincinnati Detroit Georgia Tech Iowa State Merrimack Missouri S&T Northern Illinois Ohio State Pan Am (Estrada) Penn State RPI U. of San Diego St. Louis

92,070.92 15,399.35 2,839.37 31,607.01 6,764.92 1,131.58 11,346.41 9,186.92 4,696.85 12,748.79 8,887.92 8,456.88 13,412.64

Investing in Our Mission Phi Kappa Theta Foundation Reinvests Resources in Development

By Allyson Clarkson Assistant Director of Development Our Mission: It is the mission of the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation to enhance the quality of the educational, spiritual and fraternal programs of the National Fraternity and its local chapters, by providing funding for those programs, and offering guidance as to their implementation.

Over the years, the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation has recognized Brothers for their achievements, most commonly for their academic and leadership achievements. Most recently, the Excellence in Leadership and Academics Excellence Awards have been earned by those Brothers who have displayed high performance in each area respectively.

While we are able to celebrate the achievements of these men, the National Foundation recognizes the opportunity to reinvest its resources into the development of all our members. This is an essential step taken by the Foundation in order to better fulfill our own Mission and is in direct alignment with the Fraternity’s Mission.

Our Mission drives our decisions and our actions.

The success of recent development programs such as Leadership Institute demonstrates the widespread impact that

well-planned programming can have on both our collegiate and alumni members.

If we truly wish “to enhance the quality of the educational, spiritual and fraternal programs” of the Fraternity, our focus must shift from rewarding achievements to investing in programs. For this reason, the National Foundation will be shifting its resources away from the traditional scholarships and instead investing them into development programs, workshops and resources designed to enhance the development of our Brothers.

Perhaps one of the best examples of an effective development program is Phi Kappa Theta Presidents Academy. For nearly ten years, the Presidents Academy has successfully prepared newly elected collegiate presidents for their leadership roles. The program is supported though an endowment, which allows collegiate presidents access to this essential training without having to worry about expenses.

In previous years, the endowment has been used to provide a single grant to support a stand-alone Presidents Academy. In 2011, the National Foundation will utilize this endowment to support the Presidents track at the regional conferences that will take place throughout the month of January.

Additional Foundation resources will be allocated to support the other developmental tracks during these regional conferences.

Though the motto of Phi Kappa Theta may be “Give, expecting nothing thereof,” we believe that those who invest in the young men of Phi Kappa Theta by giving to the Foundation can and should expect to see their investments used to enhance the quality and availability of the development opportunities provided to the Fraternity’s collegiate membership.

UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Phi Kappa Theta New York City Alumni Update Dinner Friday, November 19, 2010 6:00pm – reception; 7:30pm – dinner National Arts Club 15 Gramercy Park S. New York, NY 10003 Cost: $55 per person / $100 per couple Host: Andy McGowan, City College of New York, ‘62 AMcGowan@DWJTV.com

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Please be sure to visit the News & Events page of the Phikaps.org website for notices about future alumni events. If you wish to coordinate an alumni event or publicize your planned event, contact us to see how we can help! We may be reached by email at foundationstaff@ phikaps.org, or by phone at (317) 872-9934.

Volunteer Profile

Tim Clark His Life as a Phi Kap Inside and Out

By Anita Kerlin Director of Member Development Tim Clark was initiated into the Iowa Delta chapter of Phi Kappa Theta at the University of Iowa in 1989. Tim never wanted to be a Fraternity man, and in fact he went so far as to mock fraternal organizations. It was one man named Aaron Vargo and his friendship with Tim that would change the course of Tim’s life.

Aaron lived on Tim’s floor in college and also happened to be a member of Phi Kap. Tim, being the bold man he still is today, invited himself along to a Phi Kap event. He saw the brotherhood and the relationships that Aaron had with the other brothers and wanted to be a part. Tim had a difficult home environment, but luckily for him, he could now rely on his new Phi Kappa Theta family.

Since graduation, Tim has been involved in almost every way possible over the years including serving on the Phi Kappa Theta Foundation Board, PKT Properties Board, Chapter Housing Corporation Boards, serving as a Province President, Chapter Advisor, and he wrote the last edition and co-wrote the most recent edition of the Journey. He has watched Phi Kappa Theta grow and change in the most impressive ways. “We’ve changed the course of our organization. It’s been a 180 degree change from when I was in school. It was almost overnight and we actually started to embody our ideals. It’s not just lip service, we have programming and communications and we highlight individuals who live out our ideals. It’s completely different today, and it’s the best

it’s ever been. It’s all wonderful, positive, change.”

In his personal life, Tim went through significant changes with the same meaning and the same positive end result shortly after college. There was a short amount of time where Tim was not involved in Phi Kap because he was dealing with alcoholism.

It was with the help of his chapter brothers who took him to his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting that started him on the road to recovery. “Feeling the unconditional love from my chapter brothers and also now alumni who weren’t alumni of my own chapter was the best thing for me. They stuck with me through my battle and recovery from alcoholism; they didn’t judge me or run in the other direction when I came out as a gay man.

They supported me when my own family did not. It was really the cornerstone of my foundation.”

“The men that I have known behaved so nobly and in a loving way, how could you not want to give back to an organization that cares for you that much. It might sound cliché, but the organization truly had a most

“It might sound cliché, but the organization truly had a most significant impact on the way I lead my life today.”

—Tim Clark

significant impact on the way I lead my life today. I didn’t realize at the time what was happening, but now in retrospect, I can say that with great confidence. Recognizing that now, I would encourage others to be involved after graduation even if it’s in some small way.”

Tim has become a very strong and successful Senior Manager of Business Development for Discover Financial Services, a global financial corporation.

In addition to his many roles in Phi Kappa Theta, Tim serves on a board that cares for homeless and traumatized youth and is President of one that assists people with alcohol or drug addiction issues. He is also a member of a congresswoman’s financial committee and advises several other federal lawmakers.

Top: Tim at the 2010 Leadership Institute this past August in St. Louis.

Below: Tim with Nancy Pelosi (left) and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (right).

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Find Phi Kappa Theta on the following online networks: www.phikaps.org phikapstaff.blogspot.com/ www.facebook.com/pages/Phi-Kappa-ThetaFraternity-Inc/149427585088274 twitter.com/phikappatheta www.youtube.com/PhiKappaTheta1959 www.linkedin.com/ groups?home=&gid=57197&trk=anet_ug_hm

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Visit www.phikaps.org and click on “Vendors” at the top then “Jester “Online Store”” to start shopping!

Spend $50 or more and get $10 off!

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PHI KAPPA THETA

Apparel & Accessories 26

FALL 2010

Expanding Phi Kappa Theta in 2010

By Gretchen Stahl Assistant Director of Member Development Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, MA, is the site of the newest expansion project for Phi Kappa Theta.

After over a semester of discussions with the campus, staff members made a trip to campus in early September to meet with IFC to obtain an official vote to allow recruiting to begin for our newest group. Through events, phone calls, flyers, Facebook and assistance from the Massachusetts Lambda chapter at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, we have recruited enough men to move this group to colony status. The campus has seen a lot of growth this semester with a change from College to University status, as well as the addition of not only Phi Kappa Theta, but of Delta Phi Epsilon National Sorority which began recruiting this semester as well.

Bridgewater State University enrolls 11,000 students and was founded in 1840.

It has an established Greek system, with three national fraternities, three national sororities and two co-ed fraternities. When it becomes a chapter, it will be the fifth in the state of Massachusetts, joining WPI, MIT, U. Mass. Dartmouth and Merrimack.

It is exciting for the Fraternity to be a part of such positive growth in a University community. The men recruited are involved as Resident Assistants, Student Government representatives and community volunteers. “I am excited to start the colonization process and to make a difference, as well as to hold a new standard for Greeks on campus”, says student John Rodriguez of his joining Phi Kappa Theta. Stay tuned for more

information as this colony grows.

In addition to adding a new colony this semester, Phi Kappa Theta has voted to charter the South Dakota Alpha Xi colony at the University of South Dakota.

This group has worked hard at all colony requirements and has been excelling on their campus at both academics and philanthropy. Please congratulate them as the newest chapter to join Phi Kappa Theta. They are currently in the process of planning their chartering ceremony to take place late Fall. Members can also be on the lookout for the petitions of both Pennsylvania Iota at Temple University and Louisiana Omicron at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette to come this year.

We also have colonies at Temple University in Philadelphia and the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. Both would be recharterings of groups originally chartered in the 1930’s.

“I am excited to start the colonization process and to make a difference, as well as to hold a new standard for Greeks on campus.”

—John Rodriguez

( iSer

Training to Serve

ve )

By now you have probably heard of Phi Kappa Theta’s volunteer training program, the (iServe) Institute. The (iServe) Institute is designed to provide volunteers the essentials necessary to effectively serve in Phi Kappa Theta’s (iServe) Network.

The (iServe) Institute is a values-based education program that includes training on the following topics: • Understanding Values Based Organizations and Volunteer Challenges • Understanding the Culture of today’s Collegiate Member • Creating a Coaching Culture • Navigating Conflict through Values • Creating Change and Commitment

If you wish to become an active member of Phi Kappa Theta’s (iServe) Network, visit phikaps.org/iserve-network/ for more information.

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Focusing on Phi Kaps Do you know of a Brother who is living our Mission? We would love to share his story in the Temple! Please contact us at Temple@phikaps.org so we can share more inspiring stories about our members with the rest of the Brotherhood.