SPRING 2022
The PODIUM
CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 18 - 20 • Northeast District Convention, Wilmington, DE Doubletree Downtown
STAFF Publisher/National Executive Director Office Manager & National Accountant Membership Services Coordinator Membership & Expansion Coordinator Alumni, Historical, & Development Coordinator Publications Manager & Multimedia Designer National Events Coordinator Kappa Kappa Psi Chapter Support Coordinator Kappa Kappa Psi Chapter Field Representative Kappa Kappa Psi Chapter Field Representative
Steve Nelson Di Spiva Debbie Morris TJ Tooley Aaron Moore Robert Bratcher Lisa Croston Nicole Brooks Kennedy Struck Jake January
nelson@kkytbs.org spiva@kkytbs.org morris@kkytbs.org tooley@kkytbs.org moore@kkytbs.org podium@kkytbs.org croston@kkytbs.org brooks@kkytbs.org cfrkky@kkpsi.org kkycfr@kkpsi.org
The PODIUM National Headquarters Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma P.O. Box 849 Stillwater, OK 74076-0849 (405) 372-2333 www.kkytbs.org e-mail: podium@kkytbs.org
April 22 - 24 • Western District Convention, Seattle, WA DoubleTree Suites Seattle Airport Southcenter
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
May 1 • Online deadline for articles being submitted to the Fall 2022 issue of The PODIUM • Submission & postmark deadline for ΤΒΣ National Scholarship applications
Articles must be prepared using common word processing software or submitted by e-mail. Photographs must have captions attached with all individuals identified. Detailed author’s guidelines can be found on the NHQ web site at: podium.kkytbs.org
June 1 • On-time deadline for Chapter Summary Reports
DEADLINES May 1 December 1
July 1 • KKΨ Awards Deadline
The PODIUM is produced at the National Headquarters of Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma in Stillwater, Okla., and printed and mailed by Modern Litho-Print, Jefferson City, Mo.
September 30 (October 15 for Quarter Schools) • Submission & postmark deadline for KKΨ & TBΣ Chapter Personnel Reports, signed summary page and fees
SPRING 2022
On the Cover: On the cover of this issue is Past National President of Kappa Kappa Psi, Mr. Melvin N. Miles, Jr., in celebration of his 49 years of service to Morgan State University as Director of University Bands upon his retirement at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.
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April 1 - 3 • North Central District Convention, Cleveland, OH Hilton Cleveland Rockside April 8 - 10 • Southwest District Convention, Springdale, AR Holiday Inn Northwest Arkansas Convention Center
MAILING ADDRESS
Fall issue Spring issue
March 25 - 27 • Midwest District Convention, Lincoln, NE Graduate Hotel • Southeast District Convention, Callaway Resorts and Gardens Pine Mountain, GA
Spring 2022
22 what'sINSIDE
16
4 From The Executive Director 5 Expansion & Membership 40 National Leadership 46 In Loving Memory 6
Nashville African-American Wind Symphony Michael Bradford-Calhoun
8
ΤΒΣAA #15YearChallenge David Alexander Chairperson, ΤΒΣ Alumni Association
10 Desire Alone Is Insufficient Kadeem Sabari LAA Director, KKΨ Alumni Association
12 Boh And Tell:
A Music Share Event
Paula Kyser & Tim Priest
13 It's As Easy As A Thank You Note
Ken Corbett & Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser
16 The Marching Force Takes NYC by Storm
Asani Ward
18 Nu Alpha Takes 10:
A Decade In The Bond
Tyehimba Shabazz
30
20 Finding Hope in a
Hopeless Situation
Porscha McClanahan, Elise Parker, & Caroline McReynolds
22 Professor Melvin N. Miles, Jr. Ken Corbett
28 More Traveling, More Fellowship, More Opportunites for Brotherhood
Mason Smith
29 Adjust to the Situation Katie Brink
30 It's Time to Recharge the Brotherhood
Hunter Harris
32 NIB Reflections: An
Interview with The 2021 Conductor and Composer Dr. LaToya Webb
National Vice President for Professional Relations, ΤΒΣ
34 Brother, Look At The Brother In The Mirror Donald Lee, Jr.
ΚΚΨ DEIA Committee, Chair Communications Director KKΨ Alumni Association
38 Morris Brown College Is Back TarShae Odom
National VPSA, ΚΚΨ
Dr. Kevin James
National Board of Trustees, ΚΚΨ
40 The Vision of Our Best Intentions
Erika Pope
National President, ΤΒΣ
41 The Super Duper Amazing Songs of Tau Beta Sigma
Leslie Gartin
National Vice President for Special Projects, ΤΒΣ
42 Institute Knowledge, Not
"Institutional Knowledge" Edward Savoy
National Vice President for Programs, ΚΚΨ
43 Our Communications & Social Media...
Allison Leemann
National Vice President for Communication & Recognition, ΤΒΣ
PODIUM.KKYTBS.ORG - 3
The PODIUM
FROM TH E NATIONAL EX E CUTIV E DIRECTOR
Writers Wanted!
There is bittersweet news as this issue of The Podium goes to print. This is the last issue to be designed and edited by our Publications Manager, Robert Bratcher (ΚΚΨ/Iota Zeta '03). Robert accepted a new position in Texas that is a perfect step in his career. We could not be happier for him as he sets forth on this new path, but we will certainly miss his amazing talent. The work he has done in his 8 years on the National Headquarters staff has been transformational. He brought the designs and publications of the two organizations together in a cohesive way, unlike anything we've had in the past. Thank you, Robert, for your talent, vision and dedication. Good luck and best wishes from everyone at NHQ. This issue is a celebration of so many different aspects of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. We honor and celebrate the long career and retirement of our friend and past National President, Dr. Melvin Miles. Miles, as he's often called, has been my friend since the '80's and I've been a lucky recipient of his wisdom and humor many times over the years. Please read about his career and other achievements, starting on page 22. The article mentions that many people have been touched by his leadership and care. Miles, I'm one of them. Thank you for your service to us all. This issue is also a celebration of our recovery from the damages caused by the pandemic; and, the constant revelation of our need to be more diverse and inclusive organizations. As things return to normal, here is much work to do but we can celebrate the knowledge that we are moving forward. This issue will reach our subscribers during the 2022 District Convention season, our first in-person conventions since the spring of 2019! What a relief it is to have the opportunity to be together once again. From the National Headquarters, I wish you all well for a healthy, prosperous and musical future. Steve Nelson (ΚΚΨ/Alpha, ’80)
4 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
Spring 2022
EXPANSION& MEMBERSHIP
NEWS Kappa Kappa Psi is welcoming back
Kappa Kappa Psi is welcoming
Valdosta State University Valdosta, Georgia
Cleveland State University Cleveland, Ohio
LAMBDA OMICRON
XI GAMMA
KAPPA KAPPA PSI NEW PETITIONING GROUPS
TAU BETA SIGMA NEW PETITIONING GROUPS
Tennessee State University Nashville, Tennessee
Tennessee State University Nashville, Tennessee
LAMBDA UPSILON
THETA OMICRON
ZETA PI
Savannah State University Savannah, Georgia
ZETA PI
Livingstone College Salisbury, North Carolina
C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ESTABLISHING A CHAPTER ON YOUR CAMPUS VISIT:
kkpsi.org/membership/starting-a-chapter | tbsigma.org/expansion
PODIUM.KKYTBS.ORG - 5
The PODIUM
Alumni ARTICLES
by Michael Bradford-Calhoun Iota Zeta, Alumni - North Carolina A&T State University
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usic is still the greatest of the arts! That is a statement that all brothers of this great organization agree upon verbally. However, as we transition from active brothers to alumni, life gets in the way forcing music to take. For one brother, music has become a focal point in his career. Brother Bruce Ayers, a 2009 initiate into the Zeta Psi Chapter seated at Virginia State University, is actively demonstrating why music is the greatest of the arts. Brother Ayers is the establishmentarian of the Nashville African American Wind Symphony, Inc. Brother Bruce V. Ayers, Jr., is a native of Dover, Delaware. He serves as a Professor of Music and an Instructor of Applied Euphonium at Tennessee State University. Before his role at Tennessee State University, Mr. Ayers served as the Director of Bands at the Grammy awardwinning Pearl-Cohn Entertainment Magnet High School in Nashville, Tennessee. He obtained his bachelor’s
6 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
degree in Music Education from Virginia State University, where he served as Head Drum Major for the Trojan Explosion, and his master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Music at Tennessee State University, where he also served as a graduate assistant for the Music Department and world-renown Aristocrat of Bands. The Nashville African American Wind Symphony, Inc. presents a broad range of educational, entertainment, and cultural programs. We aim to be a key regional service as a professional performance ensemble, a key youth instrumental musical training, and a means of preserving the wind band community in Nashville, TN and as an established premier wind band organization. Bang Co, National Vice President of Membership and Expansion, and I had the privilege of interviewing Bro. Ayers this past fall. Here’s what we talked about: Michael: “Great to have you here with us man, could you share a little bit about your background”
Bruce: So outside of the symphony, I am a music professor and applied euphonium instructor at Tennessee State University as well as the game-day operations manager for the Tennessee State Aristocrats of Bands marching band . Michael: What inspired you to pursue this opportunity? Bruce: My inspiration came from the desire for African American representation in the wind band community. Growing up as a kid and auditioning for various honor bands like All-State, County, and Districts, I would often notice that I was the only person of color in these ensembles. As I got older, I wanted to understand this more and discovered root of this issue. Before Tennessee State, I was the band director at Pearl-Cohn Magnet High School where we grew the band program from 6 to 75 musicians. While we saw major progress, we discovered there was a lack of access and exposure that was driving the lack of representation in the advanced ensemble community. Many of the students had no exposure to the
Spring 2022
Brother Bruce Ayers, a 2009 initiate into the Zeta Psi Chapter seated at Virginia State University, is actively demonstrating why music is the greatest of the arts. Brother Ayers is the establishmentarian of the Nashville African American Wind Symphony, Inc.
Nashville Symphony even though the symphony rehearses about 5 miles any from the school at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Our goal is to solve the lack of exposure and representation issue. Bang: Bruce, once again thanks for sharing this amazing opportunity with us. I’m really curious, was there something or someone who sparked this idea for you? Bruce: I have come across hundreds of musicians that helped spark this idea. I attended two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Virginia State University and Tennessee State University where I met truly virtuosic and brilliant musicians. Many of these students, even though they were on band scholarships, were non-music majors. I pose this question, “if you’re not a music major, what opportunities are available to continue playing after you graduate?” after all of the money, time, and education you’ve put in, I do not believe music ever should stop. Music saved my life. William Revelli stated, “perhaps one of the greatest weaknesses of our band programs is that majority of students active participation ceases upon the day of graduation from College or High School”, I want to be an advocate that changes this narrative. Bang: That is so true, life kind of gets in the way sometimes and I do not get to play as much as I did. In that same vein, were there any moments of doubt when it came to creating this and how did you handle that little voice in your head that
said you can’t make it? Bruce: That voice was in my head saying, “who are you to do this?”. I had to remind myself that I had invested in myself to manifest something of this magnitude. Also, I had to rely on my support system. They would often say “How dare you to think you’re not capable?”. The other questions revolved around funding, rehearsal space, questioning if we’d be able to perform Grade Six literature and finding extended family instrument players like oboist, bassoonist and contrabass clarinetist. Every time these questions came up, I was presented with a resource that pushed me past my doubts.” The best part of this was the amazing team and board of directors. Ashley Crawford; President, Dr. Reginald McDonald; Conductor/ Chairman of the Board, Alexandro Nichols; Conductor/ Director of Educational Outreach, Stephanie Richardson; Director of Communication, Rontrell Challahan; Conductor/Board Member, Terence Bankett; Administration, Board Member. Bang: It’s great that you have such a supportive team. I was told a quote as a kid “if you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go with others." It’s great to hear that you’ve built such a supportive team. Bruce: Yes, my team is amazing. I often say that my team is better than me. I can use them as a crutch, if you will, in making sure that every “I” is dotted, and every “T” is crossed. I truly believe they are better than me. Michael: Man, that is great to hear that you have such a great team. Let’s talk more about the organization itself. Did
you guys already plan a concert? Are you using all original compositions? Bruce: Our Debut concert is set for next year’s Juneteenth Holiday Celebration; every composition will be by published African American composers. Specifically, we have commissioned Larry Jenkins (KKPsi-Eta Omega, Chief Arranger of Tennessee State Marching Band, to arrange the African American National Anthem “Lift Every Voice” that will be played at each performance. After our debut concert, we will also do the standards such as Grainger, Holst, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Sousa, Holsinger, etc. Michael: So now, another important part, where are you pooling instrumentalists from? Is it mainly Tennessee State or from the local area? Bruce: Our pull comes from the entire Middle Tennessee area but also out of states such as Detroit, Mi, Alabama, and Mississippi. The core of the ensemble started with Tennessee State University alumni but quickly branched out. My recruiting tactic was ‘everyone brings someone”. We’ve grown pretty fast, and it has forced us to turn some away as we developed our proper instrumentation. We have reached that point where we have started a formal auditioning process. Michael: Got it! Wow, that happened fast. Now, where do you see this organization five years from now? Bruce: I see the Symphony performing on a national scale like the HBCU Band Director Consortium, Carnegie Hall, going on tour nationally as well as becoming a studio band and recording for movies. Additionally, in 3-5 years, we want to erect a performance arts center in the heart of northern Nashville, which is considered the more urban area of Nashville. It will be our home as well as be an outreach center for youth that are interested in music. Bang: Bruce, thank you so much. We are excited to share this with the rest of the brotherhood. Are there any final words before we go? Bruce: AEA. If you want to learn more about the Nashville African American Wind Symphony, visit their website at naawsmusic.org and social media platforms @naaws_music, and consider contributing to their efforts in the Nashville community.
PODIUM.KKYTBS.ORG - 7
The PODIUM
Alumni ARTICLES
TBΣAA #15YearChallenge by David Alexander Chairperson - TBΣ Alumni Association
I
am sure you have seen the #10YearChallenge on social media. It shows what you looked like 10 years ago, and what you look like today! Welcome to the TBΣAA #15YearChallenge! In the summer of 2007, the Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association was presented and welcomed by the attendees at the National Convention in Orlando, FL. This marked the formation of the TBΣAA and the beginning of the alumni experience that we have come to know and love! As we kick off the 15 year anniversary of the TBΣAA, I wanted to take a moment to turn back the hands of time and reflect on our beginnings as an organization. Our first Chairperson was Debbie Baker, and the Executive Council included Chris Reed (Vanacore), Ed Elsea, Sue Carr, and Tamara Henry. This forward-thinking group of leaders established a framework for the future of the TBΣAA. Looking back at the Fall 2007 Podium, the Alumni Association was viewed as a new program of Tau Beta Sigma. The article stated, “A commitment and dedication "For Greater Bands" is a passion for music that will now be the TAU BETA SIGMA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. Music is a life-long activity. Not just something we once did, but something we still do. You may be a musician, a band director, a music teacher, a lawyer, a parent, or any of the hundreds of other professions; but what we have in common is our love of music. Sharing music in symphony halls, in band rooms, on the radio, in classrooms, in the car, watching our child's first concertit is all important.” In 2007, Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association was about the importance of music. Our mission was dedicated to advance women in music and promote
8 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
music in society which was reflected in the early work of the TBΣAA. As with any idea, it took time to grow into something that was a living, breathing organization and many people served diligently behind the scenes to make things happen. During that first biennium, the TBΣAA grew to over 250 members! By the end of that biennium, the TBΣAA looked to focus towards providing a way to continue your journey with Tau Beta Sigma at a commitment level tailored to your active lives. Whether it was simply receiving newsletters, reading the career articles and profiles, or being a member of Ning and attending events at National Convention, the goal was to add value to membership. Most importantly, the Executive Council envisioned building
something of which you are proud to be a member. So now here we are in 2022 and we are starting the celebration for our 15-year anniversary this summer! When I look back at the visionary leadership in our early beginnings, it makes me smile to see that we have achieved our goals and continued to expand our focuses. Music is still our common tie, and we have grown to 728 current members in the TBΣAA! That is almost triple our membership after our first biennium in existence! We have also continued to make sure that we are providing programming and experiences that are tailored to what our members want, while adding value to our membership. You can see this through the evolution of our mentorship program
Spring 2022
that is now our Growth and Professional Development program with options to interact and engage in different ways. You can see this through our different communication and outreach strategies that connect our members through different media platforms. You can see this through the expansion of our Local Alumni Associations, having welcomed 3 new LAAs into our organization already this biennium!
As we look to the future of the TBΣAA and the #25YearChallenge, we want our members to look back and remember the intentional connections they felt through the shared experiences and the programming that supported their needs based on where they were in their life at that time. We want our members to look back and say they felt welcomed, valued and heard. And just as they envisioned in 2007, we want to have built something of
which you are proud to be a member! Thank you to all of our members past and present for being a part of making the TBΣAA a place for our members to stay connected to Tau Beta Sigma. Each of us who has been a member are the reason we can say, “Happy 15-Year Anniversary, TBΣAA!” Here’s to many more! You can be a part of the 15-year celebration by joining or renewing at www.tbsalumni. org/membership!
PODIUM.KKYTBS.ORG - 9
The PODIUM
Alumni ARTICLES
Desire Alone Is Insufficient by Kadeem Sabari Local Alumni Association Director - ΚΚΨ Alumni Association
V
olunteer service is an integral part to the advancement of Kappa Kappa Psi. New committees are being formed and more opportunities are being created for new Brothers and voices to serve and be heard. As more opportunities arise, it is important to ask yourself two questions before you commit to serve.
Question 1: Are you available to give one hundred percent?
With any organization, there are going to be people whose only desire is to climb the hierarchical ladder. It’s an unfortunate reality, but it is one to be aware of. It is safe to assume that most have similar feelings about people who do this because the process usually involves stepping on the backs of people who are doing honest work to put out a decent product. Do not be one of these people.
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r
ou
r
Question 2: Do you care about what you are volunteering for?
As initially mentioned, volunteer service is an integral part of what makes Kappa Kappa Psi operate. It is what keeps us moving forward. The desire to serve is great, but desire alone is insufficient. I urge people to get involved and serve, but remember to ask yourself those two questions: Are you available to give one hundred percent? Do you care about what you are volunteering for?
ou
This question may seem elementary; however, it is crucial to the betterment of the fraternity and your personal well-being. As Brothers, we have a deep love for the Fraternity and want to see it grow, but it cannot come at the cost of adding unnecessary stress to your life. The idea of joining committees and running for leadership may seem enticing but do not forget to ask about the time commitment attached to whatever committee/position you are interested in. Committees involve regular meetings outside of your everyday responsibilities and some may involve planning and executing events or workshops. The committee needs everyone to pull their weight to successfully achieve their goals, but when people commit to serve and then disappear when it is time to work it adds unfair burden to the others involved. It is only fair that everyone should be expected to do what they signed up for. Running for a leadership position requires an even higher time commitment and more responsibilities. You may have to advise/chair a committee, you may have to put on numerous workshops, and you may even be required to do extensive traveling. These are all in addition to your everyday responsibilities as mentioned earlier. I urge you to examine your everyday schedule and ask necessary questions regarding the time commitments needed to be successful at whatever you are interested in.
One way to avoid being this type of person is to care about what it is you are volunteering for. If you have a true interest in what you are committing to, you will be more willing and likely to do an honest day’s work because you know that you are helping to make the fraternity better. You will be more willing to have longer meetings to examine the details of a program before it gets published because you want to ensure that the product being put out to the Brotherhood is one that is truly going to enact change and not keep the status quo. People notice when someone is really invested in their work and when others are selling false dreams. If you do not care about the cause you are volunteering for and are only doing so to add something to your fraternal resume for future election plans then you are doing everyone a disservice, including yourself.
Spring 2022
Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association Gold Star Club Members The Executive Council of the TBΣAA sincerely appreciates the additional donation that these dedicated alumni give to the Association through their membership in the GOLD STAR CLUB for the 2021-2022 year. With these additional funds going toward future goals, the TBΣAA is working to increase grant and scholarship opportunities for our members, create new awards, support events like our For Greater Bands 5k, Growth and Professional Development Program, and find greater fellowship opportunities at district and national conventions. You can learn more about our GOLD STAR CLUB and join the TBΣAA at www.tbsalumni.org
GOLD STAR CLUB MEMBERS Ralasherrie Alcantara David Alexander Evette Alfred Lennie Ambelang Theresa Anderson Venus Anderson Marissa Archuleta Yslette Arispe Cynthia Baker Debbie Baker Kwinton Baylor Valerie Beerbower Stacy Bell Destinee Bennett Pamela Bennett Oria Berkley Carmen Bessent Terah Bias Anyonga Blackwell Danielle Blackwell Joanna Bonner Beth Bronk Erwin Brown Lucianna Brown Gretchen Buchen Kimberly Burrell Jessica Campos Nakeisha Canady Tammy Carethers LaShonda Cargill Sue Carr Morine Carroll Renee Cartee Jasmine Causey VanTarsha Clarke Alisha Coates Brittany Coffey Desiree Cole Nai Colton
Lance Coochyouma Kenneth Corbett Queenester Covington Debra Crawford Lisa Croston Kaitlyn Curley Tiffany Davis Jason Dawdy Christina Dean Olivia DeFilippo Jennifer DiBenedetto Phaedra Dinkins Emily Donovan Kelly Eidson Harmona Epps HaShawn Epps Dr. Dawn Farmer Sarah Fitzgerald Natarsha Ford Chris Foster Gwyn Stump Abigael Frey Ciara Gibbs Kathy Godwin Kat Grant Tonia Graves Layla Gray Chiquita Greene Tim Greenwell Rachael Grimes Emily Gunby Samantha Hall David Hammond Karon Hammond Alan Harriet Holli Hartman Alysha Harvey
Janelle Henderson Sherronda Henderson Tamara Henry Rosalind Howard Markitha Humphrey Wendy Jaques Evelyn Jones Marcia Jones Mia Jordan Chris Joyce Deborah Kaplan Dr. Kathryn Kelly Tylar Kerstetter Sami Kinnison John Kitchens Marco Krcatovich Katie Langley Jada Lee Allison Leemann Jessica Lewis Monica Lewis Lueen Lindsay Kymberly Littlejohn Tamara Lovejoy Christopher Lukasik Nikki Lyons Jonathan Markowski Malinda Matney Clara Mattheessen Edvige Mbakoup Bridgett McBride Dr. Ted McCadden Carolyn McCambridge Scott McCambridge Leslie McClure Barbara McCray Cynthia McDade
Rosalyn McDonald LaSandra McGhee Heather McGowan Rhonda McKinney Kristin McMullen Melanie Meehan Cathy Miles Brianna Mitchell Dana Mitchell Kishera Mitchell Monika Monk Miya Moon Ivania Morales Maya Morant Caleb Morris Eric Morson Larietta Moultrie Ashley Munoz Thea Murphy Jean Newman Cassandra Nicholson Dollie O’Neill Maritza Olivares Maisha Paggett Salli-Tymna Parker Sherese Parker Taylure Shaw Theresa Powell Christopher Pratt Deatrica Pullens Adrienne Rall Chelsea Rasing Linnetta Ratliff Zachary Rebarchek Kelsey Reilly Jenny Renaud Mikaela Rhodes Katie Rixon Ashley Robinson
Tanisha Castaneda Katherine Rodeffer Nicholas Rorrer Alisha Rowden Rachel Cesar Catrina Sally-Thomas Dr.Nicole Sanchez Ed Savoy Michael Scheidegger Stacy Schiele Amber Scott Carletta Scott Jahn Scott Jennifer Scott Scott Sergeant Victoria Shepard ClinTonya Shorter Albert Shuler Christian Sibley Kimbi Sigle Miriam Simmons Kerry Simon Marlena Simoneau Zara Simpson Vonnetta Sloan Alexis Smith Gayle Smith Jazzlyn Smith Jessica Smith Sharron Smith Kimberlee Spears Brett Steinbrink Olivia Stewart-Costa Sychiquita Stokes David Stookey Jessica Stookey Lauren Streeter-Lynch Porschia Sumlin
Nyaesia Thompson Julia Tordo Lauren Tubbs-Ezell Omaria Tucker Regina Tucker Keishauna Turner Tiara Vaught Erika Walker Latrinda Walker Georgette Washington Verinda Waters Kathleen Webster Brezelle White Gloria White Terri White Leeann Wieser Bridgette Williams Katherine Williams Lashann Williams Eireka Wright Kristin Wright Marcus Wyche Julia Yanta Tyra Yiare-Holloway Shawn Zachery
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The PODIUM
Alumni ARTICLES
Boh and Tell: A Music Share Event by Paula Kyser, Chair & Tim Priest, Musical Advancement Director North Central District Alumni Association
A
re you looking for a music related event? Looking for a way to celebrate the Month of Musicianship? What about a way to just talk about music? Well, the Kappa Kappa Psi North Central District Alumni Association has the event for you! Introducing…. Boh and Tell! Boh and Tell was originally created in November 2020 by Tim Priest, our Musical Advancement Director as a way to celebrate the Month of Musicianship. Boh and Tell is an exciting music sharing event and has been an event for the NCDAA over the last two years. It is a great opportunity for Brothers to share their musical tastes with each other. You can choose a piece that is for band, orchestra, choir, on the radio or whatever you like! Tim Priest mentioned that as a music educator he always really enjoyed getting to know what type of music people enjoyed as a way to gain insight into who they are. Conversations about music always snowball into new discussions, discoveries, and create wonderful bonds. Boh and Tell allows us to get to know Brothers in this same way. We love that Brothers from all over the NCD and other Districts as well come and are excited to share the music that shaped them. It allows each of us to grow closer in a very special way. Especially in these strange times, doing this digital social event provides a great outlet for all of us. Both times we’ve put on Boh and Tell we’ve had a completely new and different group of Brothers attend. Brothers submit songs prior to the Zoom call, then each Brother spends a few minutes sharing about why this song is special or important to them, then we listen to
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either specific sections of the piece or the entire song depending on the time, and we conclude with all attendees sharing their thoughts and feelings on it. There was a wide variety of songs submitted ranging from marching band songs to choir music to rock and roll music. Take a look at some of submissions from our two Boh and Tell Music Shares: • Tim Priest submitted Loch Lomond by Frank Ticheli and A Silence Haunts Me by Jake Runestad • Hannah Trezise submitted So Hyang by Arirang Alone and Eleanor Rigby by Cody Fry • Dominic Alati submitted Festival Variations and Symphonic Songs for Band by Robert Russell Bennett • Viet Nguyen submitted Betelehemu by Babatunde Olatunji
• Nick Sondag submitted No Leaf Clover by Metallica • Michelle Banis submitted Sleep by Eric Whitacre and 4'33 by John Cage. • Paula Kyser submitted Highlights from Rocketman by Johnnie Vinson and Come Sail Away by Styx • Ben Tuttle submitted lofi songs from Soil and "Pimp" Sessions called In the Twilight • Leon Kimmelfield submitted Sing, Sing, Sing by Louis Prima • Katie Boyer submitted Voodoo by Daniel Bukvich • Micahla Livesay submitted Handel in the Strand by Percy Aldridge Grainger At the conclusion of Boh and Tell, Brothers walked away with new bonds, a list of songs to add to their Spotify playlist, and a deeper appreciation for music. We can’t wait to see this even grow and expand in the upcoming years!
Spring 2022
It’s As Easy As A Thank You Note by Ken Corbett, Past National President, ΚΚΨ & Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, Vice President of Education for Conn-Selmer, Inc
W
e live in a fast paced world; it seems as though everything is moving at the speed of light. We rush from class to class, from one work duty to another, or we find ourselves scurrying frantically from music appreciation to a band rehearsal. Because of this Vivace tempo-of-living (and the pressure that goes with it,) it is easy to become hopelessly frustrated. Such an emotional state can easily translate into a desire to give-up and give-in. That is certainly not a pleasant diagnosis and yet we witness it day-in and day-out. How do we avoid this downward spiral? What can we do to reset our minds, our hearts, our souls? While it seems simple-in-thought, let's step back from time to time and look at what we are grateful for. Gratitude is a certain antidote for shifting a person’s focus from negative to positive. What’s more, showing gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated, it is as simple as using two words: THANK YOU. When this sentiment is expressed sincerely, it can have a profound impact on someone else’s attitude as well as our own; it’s the ultimate WIN-WIN scenario. May we suggest developing a daily habit of considering three things you are grateful for or seek the opportunity to express our gratitude uplifting another person. In doing so, you will train your brain to become more optimistic and more positive; it impacts your “state-of-mind.” Rather than dwelling on the downsides of your personal landscape, you can recalibrate your thinking to actively find the many benefits that continue to come your way. Since the mind leads us in the direction of its most dominant thoughts, the world around you takes on a new perspective.
Here are some easy and simple ways to begin your journey to being truly grateful: Three Good Things – As you identify your three areas of gratefulness, write them down. The physical act of writing affords a deeper imprint on your personality. This is a true gift to yourself; as a result it is mirrored by all those around you. Gratitude Jar – Anytime something good happens, jot it down on a piece of paper, fold it up and stuff it in your gratitude jar. It will serve as a powerful visual clue (and cue!). You will be astounded at how quickly your jar fills, moreover you will be reminded of the positivity you are experiencing each and every day. A Gooney Message – Write a twominute email or text praising or thanking a different person each day. Keep it short. It can not only transform your own level of happiness, but it will expand your social connections as well. You will quickly sense the support it generates with the people around you. The Old-fashioned Way - While a text or computerized emoji message works in today’s age of technology, it cannot be said how much stronger your gratitude is felt when it is delivered in a handwritten note, there *is* no substitute for such personalization. Sit down with pen-’n-paper and compose a handwritten note sharing your gratefulness; it is sincere gesture guaranteed to lift the spirits of its receiver and everyone else. “Personally, I love the handwritten note or letter that shows someone took the time to sit down and write it, so this is my bias,” says Ken Corbett. “The younger fraternity brothers reading this may say, excuse me, handwritten notes in this age of computers, get with it. However, the
feelings I have when receiving a note, reading it and knowing that the person took the time to sit down and write out how grateful they are, only strengthens my belief in brotherhood and how each and every one of us is grateful that we are part of a much stronger entity – ΚΚΨ.” “Let me reinforce Ken's spot-on thoughts. Actually, the cyberspace world has increased the value of the handwritten message. We’re inundated with social media that short-chains us to our phones, so when someone stops-the-world to write a personal note, IT GETS ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY. It does not get lost in the flood of advertisements, requests and generic outreaches. You can bet the note will be read, and - most likely - saved!" says, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser. As for the content of your messages: “Short-and-sweet” will be your best guide. Spotlight the value of the receiver. It is a case where less-is-more. Keep it simple and sincere. It’s the brief notes or heartfelt comments that create a sense of CARING. A thank you note expressing gratitude has the remarkable power to transform your state of mind and alter your emotions through a precious, soul-gratifying experience. Start to think about those individuals you need to be grateful for in addition to your parents, your friends or that special someone; please consider your band director(s) who also fit into this very special category of recognition. Without them, you would have missed out on being part of a great band family; we well-know it is a brotherhood that lasts a lifetime. Take a minute or two to script that handwritten note to your band director(s). Both of you will be grateful and the sun will shine brighter on everyone…and, for that, we *can* be mighty grateful!
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Celebrating our 1946 Club and Century Club donors!
Century Club Members
Being a monthly donor to the Tau Beta Sigma Trust Fund is one of the best ways to ensure the continued legacy and success of our organization. The Century Club is aimed at helping individuals begin a monthly giving journey. With a $9 per month contribution, individuals will reach $100 total in contributions to Tau Beta Sigma within one calendar year.
Tiffany Singleton Nwachukwu Oputa Debra Crawford Timothy Greenwell Olivia Stewart-Costa David Stookey Jessica Stookey Sami Kinnison Jennifer Scott
Through the 1946 Club, individuals contribute $19.46 monthly to sustain their support of the mission and ideals of Tau Beta Sigma. Glenn & Debbie Baker Jonathan Markowski Scott & Carolyn Melvin & Cathy McCambridge Miles Bill & Kelly Eidson Zachary Rebarchek Lance Coochyouma Kelsey Reilly Morgan Darling Dawn Farmer Thea Murphy Evan Thompson Katie Rixon Debra Crawford Amber Scott David & Karon Dollie O'Neill Hammond Nicole Sanchez Leslie McClure Lisa Croston Caleb Morris
1946 Club Members
Chris Foster Melanie Meehan Katherine Godwin Emily Donovan Leslie Gartin Jean Newman Kathryn Kelly Chelsea Rasing Shalyn Nystrom Zara Simpson Jessica Smith Holli Hartman Maisha Paggett Sue Robash Carr
On November 30th, 2021 Tau Beta Sigma members, family, and friends celebrated #GivingTuesday, a global day of kindness and giving. Throughout the day alongside our giving efforts, we saw stories about the impact of Tau Beta Sigma on our band programs on our member’s lives, and to promote women in music. We are incredibly grateful to the following donors and their dedication to Tau Beta Sigma. They have helped to create and continue to ensure the support our Women in Music Speaker Series, our Scholarships, the National Intercollegiate Band, and many of our long-term goals.
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Ted McCadden Erika Pope Kellie Leitz Daniel George Kimbi Sigle Tyra Yiare David Alexander, Jr. Adrienne Rall Mellinna P. Ridout
Adam Cantley & Joe Panzer Adrienne Rall Allison Leemann Audrey W. Frazier Brooke Lee Carolyn Alford Chelsea Rasing Christopher Lukasik Christy McKinney Ciara Gibbs David Alexander, Jr. Dawn Farmer Dollie O'Neill Donald Twite Ed Savoy Emily Donovan Erika Pope Francis Slazyk Hannah May Heather Marshall
Continue your Tau Beta Sigma journey by giving back as part of our monthly giving clubs. To join the Century Club visit:
www.tbsigma.org/ centuryclub
To join the 1946 Club visit:
www.tbsigma.org/1946club
Holli Hartman Jared Finkel Jason Dornbush Jen DiBenedetto Joanna M. Bonner Jon Leeper Katherine Godwin Kathleen Hong Kathryn Kelly Katie Langley Katie Rixon Kelli Jones Kelsey Reilly Ken Corbett Kimbi Sigle Krysel'l Jordan Kyler Ratcliff Lance Coochyouma Leslie Gartin Lisa Croston Mali Glaister
Marissa Archuleta Marsha Reiber Mary Godwin Mary Jo Papich Mellinna P. Ridout Mikaela Rhodes Misty Lovejoy Nicholas Rorrer Portia Boyce Rosalyn McDonald Sami Kinnison Shalyn Nystrom Southwest District Alumni Association Stacy Bell Thea Murphy Tina East Zachary Rebarchek
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Generosity of mind, heart and hand…
The rich history and legacy of Tau Beta Sigma thrives and continues to grow thanks to the loyalty and passion of all who have financially supported the organization. On behalf of the Tau Beta Sigma Board of Trustees, we wish to extend our sincerest gratitude to the following individuals for their total contributions across the years.
Wava Banes Founder Society $20,000 - $49,000 Alan Harriet Max Mitchell
Crown Pearl Society $10,000 - $19,999
Glenn & Debbie Baker Wava Banes Henry Kelly Collaborative Medicine
Golden Lyre Circle $5,000 - $9,999 Lisa Croston Bill & Kelly Eidson Kathryn Kelly Melvin & Cathy Miles Jean Newman Christopher Miller
Red Rose Circle $1,000 - $4,999 Justin Brady Gretchen Buchen Sue Robash Carr Alpha Delta Chapter Beta Chapter Beta Gamma Chapter Eta Rho Chapter Eta Sigma Chapter National Chapter (KKΨ) National Chapter (TBΣ) Theta Xi Chapter Zeta Delta Chapter Lance Coochyouma Ken Corbett Jen DiBenedetto North Central District Northeast District Southeast District Southwest District Western District Emily Donovan Judith Dulcich Dawn Farmer Chris Foster Leslie Gartin Daniel George
Katherine Godwin Christina Gordon David & Karon Hammond Holli Hartman Patsy Hejl Reese Henry Debbie Kaplan Samantha Kinnison Allison Leemann Christopher Lukasik Jonathan Markowski Heather Marshall Marc Martinez Ted McCadden Scott & Carolyn McCambridge Wendy McCann Leslie McClure Donna McCormick Rosalyn McDonald Melanie Meehan Shalyn Nystrom David Oakley Dollie O'Neill Catherine Oster Elaine Ostrander Erika Pope Adrienne Rall Zachary Rebarchek Kathy Rider Carla A. Robinson Nicole Sanchez April Sansing Scott Sergeant Kimbi Sigle Zara Simpson Jessica Smith Frank Stubbs & Tom Lee Sandra Weese Janet West Miller Leeann Wieser Kristin Wright
White and Blue Circle $500 - $999 David Alexander, Jr. Marcos Alvarez Lennie Ambelang Courtney Biagas Meredith Brazzell Beth Bronk Renee Cartee Omega Chapter Debra Crawford Paula Crider Susie DePinto
Jason Dornbush Kevin Earnest Edward Elsea, III Paypal Giving Fund Timothy Greenwell, Jr. Lois Gribler Kim Hamilton Carol Kruse Katie Langley Kellie Leitz Marla Lewiski Marisa Lunde Malinda Matney Kelli Jones Caleb Morris Peter Murray Steven Nelson Maisha Paggett Norma Parrish Theresa Powell Linda Rae Chelsea Rasing Constance Reishus Ashlyn Simmons Tiffany Singleton Kelly Sipko Mary Stuart Evan Thompson Chelsea Zuniga Network for Good Katie Rixon Jennifer Scott
Sisterhood Circle $250 - $499
Trudy Adler Legacy Asset Management Birkofer Joanna M. Bonner Skylar Buffington Tammy Carethers Convention Attendees Alpha Omega Chapter Alpha Theta Chapter Gamma Nu Chapter Theta Mu Chapter Zeta Omega Chapter Zeta Psi Chapter Alison Clanton Morgan Darling John Finocchiaro Gwyn Fox Stump RJ Gammon Mary Gibson Mary Gradisher Sylvia Halbardier
Georganne Hodges Jennifer Khasilev Brian Kubacak Jack & Jessica Lee Lueen Lindsay Susan Lodal Shannon Lotti Heather Mackey Rene Mark Suzanne Marques Monika Monk Thea Murphy Kaitlyn Musterman Stephani Noar Robin Oegerle Pauline Ottaviano Christina Reed Katherine Rodeffer Nicholas Rorrer Marie Scilacci Amber Scott Meghan Smith Sibyl Snyder Stacey Stenerson Olivia Stewart-Costa David Stookey Jessica Stookey Jennifer Tracy Christina Uili Georgette Washington Terri White Siobhan Wilkes Julia Woodson Marcus Wyche Tyra Yiare Sales Force.org Match Intel Matching Grant Program
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Student NEWS
The Marching Force Takes NYC by Storm by Asani Ward Theta Phi - TBΣ Hampton University
T
he Hampton University Marching Force traveled to New York City this week of thanksgiving as the only historically black college and university participating in the parade this year of 2021. The band has endured many practices, performances, and special events in the highlight of their participation in this year’s parade. The band has been preparing for this parade ever since they found out they were participating two years ago. Originally, the Marching Force was supposed to appear in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in 2020, but unfortunately, due to the coronavirus, the invite was extended to 2021. Nonetheless, the band students endured hours and hours on end of consistent practices and dedication in preparation for the big moment. Within the practices, the band focused on conditioning their bodies such as parading around campus, running the track, as well as conducting many reps of the actual performance itself on the Macy’s Star in Herald Square. The Hampton University Director of Bands, Thomas L. Jones, made it his priority to replicate the actual
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performance as much as possible for his students since he has marched the parade himself back with the Brooklyn Steppers and knows the intensity of the event itself. Because of this advantage the students were able to receive the keys to success from Dr. Jones past experience in performing and marching in this parade. Not only did the band make its mark on the Macy’s Star thanksgiving day, but they also touched the hearts of many young musicians as they went on a mini tour of inspiration by doing performances and pep rallies at schools like New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey. While performing popular songs like “Industry Baby” by Lil Nas X and “Way Too Sexy” by Drake, the band also made sure to educate the inspiring musicians on the significance of college and how playing and instrument can provide structure in one’s life. On the tour of inspiration, they also made sure to make a stop at Central Park where they participated in another pep rally. This shows that although the band could have been getting amplitude of rest and reps in for the big day, they would rather commit selfless acts of service by
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leading and inspiring the surrounding community. On the big day of the parade, November 25th, the band had to wake up at an astonishing 1am to get ready for the parade and was on go until the start of the parade at 9am. While there the Marching Force shocked the world with such a stellar and exciting performance dedicated to the importance of family while playing the song “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. After the big event was completed, many students said they felt like celebrities as many supporters stopped them in their tracks on the way home to let them know they saw them on television and to congratulate them of their accomplishments.
Overall, throughout the entirety of the trip the lovely ladies of the Theta Phi chapter of Tau Beta Sigma made it their mission to be a helping hand in facilitating many small necessities to help the trip keep moving forward such as passing out the various snacks and meals provided, helping to load and unload the buses when needed, ensuring the buses stayed clean as they traveled, and much more. They also helped in leading the band in directions from the band director and carrying out instruction to the band students. This group of ladies as well as other leaders in the band made it easier for the band staff to worry about the bigger picture while carrying out the smaller task.
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Student NEWS
Nu Alpha Takes 10: A Decade In The Bond by Tyehimba Shabazz Nu Alpha - ΚΚΨ Georgia State University
O
n Monday November 28, 2011, just one day after the organization celebrated 92 years, the Nu Alpha chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity was born at Georgia State University. In the inaugural season of the Georgia State Panther Band, 18 magnificent band members unified to colonize a chapter to be filled with members given the honor to serve the band for many years to come. Now, a decade later, Nu Alpha remains a strong chapter and an integral part of the Panther Band program. Since its founding in 2011, the chapter has initiated 94 brothers, awarded honorary membership to 5 more than deserving candidates, produced 2 Life members, and just this year had our first district officer elected from the chapter. Recently, to celebrate this milestone, the chapter held a virtual recital showcasing pieces performed by several active brothers of the chapter, including a variety of music not limited to standard recital music, but also featuring more contemporary, laid-back, and even pop styled music. This recital, which premiered on the tenth charter day, would be the third digital recital held by the chapter since the implementation of PIVOT, and we will be having our first in person recital on Thursday, December 9th. The upcoming recital will be presented in a more traditional format. In recent years the Nu Alpha chapter has done many notable service projects not only for Panther Band but also for various other entities within the Metro Atlanta community. Our brothers have volunteered at the Southern Association for Performing Arts winterguard
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A picture of Nu Alpha's Charter members, as well their Director of Bands, Dr. Robert Ambrose (far right) and Chapter Sponsor Dr. Chester Phillips (far left, top)
Feeding the homeless service project. From left to right, Brothers Logan Brady, Kaija Boddie, and Ashley Ferguson.
Feeding the homeless service project. From left to right, Brothers Fred Finch and Ashley Ferguson, our VP of Membership and VP of service, respectively.
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Tristan Bailey Cathey, Nu Alpha's music coordinator, performing Arianna Grande's "7 Rings" for their 10th anniversary digital recital
competition held at various local high schools throughout the years, as well as Music for All: Southeastern Regional Concert Festival, hosted at Georgia State University for middle and high school students to participate in. As a chapter we also started a program to help feed the local homeless community, as well as making care packages to hand out to them. As far as within our own school borders, Nu Alpha has volunteered helping with the creation of props for Panther Band halftime shows, as well as starting a tradition to create spirit and cheer signs for various sporting events. The Nu Alpha chapter, young as we may be, perseveres in working hard, striving for the highest, and excelling in Musicianship, Leadership, Service, and Brotherhood. We will continue to foster new brothers, promote and share our love of music, and build our legacy for future generations.
CONGRATULATIONS Kristen Davis
Garrett Franks
Aaron Bowen
Nu Gamma
Alpha Omicron
Zeta Phi
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Student NEWS
Finding Hope in a Hopeless Situation
by Porscha McClanahan, Elise Parker, and Caroline McReynolds Zeta Nu - TBΣ University of Northern Iowa
S
pring of 2020 was a difficult time for everybody, however, coming back in the fall seemed like an impossible challenge. People all over the world struggled finding their place in this new norm of the pandemic - especially college students. The traditional college life of majors, experiences, and organizations -especially our fraternities and sororities has changed dramatically.
TBS During the Pandemic
When the pandemic hit, we were instructed to not meet in person for the time being. Our chapter decided to do meetings and rituals over zoom. At the beginning this was hard to adapt to, but we slowly figured out how to use zoom to our advantage. Toward the end of the pandemic, we used zoom and all its functions available to us. During elections, we used the polls; during meetings, we shared screens to play kahoots and do educational lessons; during rituals, we still dressed up and went all out to make them as similar to in person as possible. We even started every meeting with a song played by the president to get us all in the TBS spirit. It’s really hard to bond over zoom, but we did our best. We did a lot of zoom events like speed dating with our sisters to get to know each other. We got split up into breakout rooms with one other person and got to chat with them. We also did game nights and crafts via zoom. While this wasn't the best case scenario for us, we got to know our sisters more than we would’ve without these events. In terms of service, we did projects outside and followed all the CDC guidelines. For our fundraisers, we continued with those that we used to do, but were forced to change the way we did them. For example, we do a lot of restaurant fundraisers which allow us to take friends and family to the chosen place and eat, and a portion of the profits will be donated to us. During the pandemic, restaurants wouldn’t let us sit in the entryway and advertise our fundraiser. In order to combat this, we made posters and hung them on the doors and posted them all over social media to spread the word of our fundraisers. A couple of our fundraisers done this way, ended up being some of the most profitable in our chapter. While we saw each other in person very rarely, we used the resources we had to do as much for the bands as we could.
How the Pandemic Changed Us
The normality of life changed drastically for all of us as what we used to call “normal” was no longer that. For starters, we were
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PMB Band Banquet - Back left: Logan Green, Elise Parker, Trishyan Anthony, Zoe Meyer, Marissa Bys, Kelsi DeBrower. Middle Left: Autumn Sharp, Katie Larson, Lizzy Richardson, Miranda Michelle. Bottom Left: Porscha McClanahan, Alaina Stoltenberg, Brianna Berthiaume. able to go back to in person meetings and events. Our meetings are held in a large room in our campus music building giving everyone the opportunity to distance themselves and wear masks. During our meetings, we brought back our educational aspect by giving the lesson and then completing a fun game, such as chalkboard races and Kahoots, to test our knowledge of the information. The service projects we’ve participated in have been mostly outside or in larger rooms. For example, we participated in the Walk For Alzheimers and rang bells in small groups outside of grocery stores for the Salvation Army. With football being back in season this year, our marching band was able to perform at games. We, as a sorority partnered up with our fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, and served the band by helping serve lunch before the games, refill water containers between the quarters, provide and pass out fruit, and clean up after the band was done for the day. Our bonding and recruitment events were also able to be in person. We’ve had
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Last Game Day - Back Left: Logan Green, Lizzy Richardson, Kelsi DeBrower, Trishyan Anthony, June Forcier, Michala Miller, Brianna Berthiaume, Katie Larson, Kiersten Benson. Bottom Left: Zoe Meyer, Porscha McClanahan, Lindsay Davison, Alaina Stoltenberg, Miranda Michelle, Autumn Sharp, Elise Parker. Bottom: Marrissa Bys movie nights and Friendsgiving and we look forward to our chapter Christmas coming up in December. These, of course, are also held in large rooms where distancing is provided. Lastly, our rituals were also able to be in person this year. This was a new challenge for most of our members as most of us have only experienced virtual meetings and rituals in the past. We all got a chance to see how the rituals are set up and were able to dress up and see each other. It provided us with a new learning experience and we worked through it together. The sisters within our chapter have had a chance to really get to know each other as well as introducing all of the new challenges and aspects of our chapter to our new members. Being together makes meetings and events run smoothly and gives us all the chance to support each other outside of our computer screens.
What’s Next?
After a recent visit from life member, Abby Rogish-Bodin, the active members of our chapter realized just how much the pandemic and coming back from that has truly affected our mental health in many different aspects. We all came to the conclusion that school and TBS would sometimes become too much or feel like obligations rather than something we all want to do and accomplish. With this in mind, we have made mental health a priority within our chapter. To keep this a priority, we have plans put in place to start this next semester.
Membership candidates are now members Back Left: June Forcier, Logan Green, Kiersten Benson, Michala Miller. Bottom Left: Katie Larson, Autumn Sharp, Lindsay Davison
Mental Health Check
Every week a form will be sent out to our members. This form will include a scale of how each member is feeling that day, whether they want to talk about anything (good and bad), and which members, if any, that they would be comfortable talking to! Every week, our minutes are sent out to our members so that we are caught up before each meeting and starting next semester, so will this form.
TBS Chill Time
During every meeting, at the beginning or end of the meeting, we will have some down time to just hang out and talk. During our chapter visit with Abby, we found that we often get “distracted” during our meetings because we just want to talk and not worry about life for a while. With this in mind, we decided it would be beneficial for our members and our mental health to take some time to just be instead of worrying about everything else in life.
TBStudy Dates
Sometimes finding the motivation and attention span to get things done is impossible - especially when you’re a college student. Next semester, we are going to incorporate study dates! Members who are able to, will set time aside every week to just study. This time will be open to all of our members to just come and study and get some work done. The perfect amount of accountability and our assignments and studies will be done in no time.
Excused Mental Health Days
The members of our chapter have realized that sometimes you just can’t. Can’t do life, can’t do school, can’t do TBS. These are very normal feelings to have. We decided to discuss the idea of excused mental health days. 1-2 excused absences will be allowed during the semester reserved for days when your mental health just isn’t up for a meeting.
Highs and Lows
To end each meeting, we are going to incorporate a common strategy of discussing highs and lows. A high, something good that has happened to you this week. A low, something you struggled with. Each member will go around while the rest of us listen and offer support! The last two years have been a huge adjustment for everyone in this world but our sorority, especially, took a huge hit. Our Tau Beta Sigma Zeta Nu chapter took the bad and managed to make it decent; took the decent and grew so much to make it great. We don’t plan on stopping there. All of our members are excited to take what we’ve learned from the pandemic and our chapter vist with Abby and turn it into a better environment for everybody. We are sisters in the bond and we plan to strengthen that bond with love and support for many years to come.
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FEATURE
Professor
Melvin N.
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Miles, Jr.
49 YEARS OF SERVICE!
T
his spring we recognize our own Past National President Mr. Melvin N. Miles, Jr., Director of University Bands, for 49 years of service to Morgan State University and his retirement at the end of the 2021-2022 school year, which will mark the work of a living legend. Mr. Melvin N. Miles, Jr., affectionately known as Miles, has been the longest standing Director of Bands in the history of Morgan State University. A graduate of Morgan State University, Mr. Miles began his career leading the band program in 1973 and will end his career as Director of Bands this June, 2022, setting a new record for Morgan State University Band Directors! “I was in the band one year, and the next year I was running it. It didn’t start without some controversy. Who hires a 22-year-old, 23-year-old guy with a bachelor’s degree to run a band program? No one,” Miles said in a 2015 interview with the AFRO Media before the season began. “To some degree it speaks to the desperation that the department was looking at 23-year-old that time in terms of trying to hire somebody. It also probably had some economic ramifications because the people they were looking to hire, who were seasoned, they couldn’t afford. I knew what to do and I was cheap.” Miles led the department from 19731975 and then John Newson was brought in to share duties. The two were coleaders for about 10 years before Newson left to become the Director of Bands at Howard University in D.C. Miles has led the department since 1985. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Miles attended Frederick Douglass High School
by Ken Corbett, Past National President, ΚΚΨ
and received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Music Education from Morgan State University. He attended The Catholic University of America for doctoral studies in Music Education. Mr. Miles and the various ensembles he has directed, especially the Magnificent Marching Machine, have traveled the United States and the World dazzling crowds, performing popular tunes, promoting music education and performance, and the band program at Morgan State University. For many years, he composed, adapted and arranged
musical scores for countless plays and other performers. Miles has appeared on screen in Chris Rock’s Head of State, Amazing Grace, Diner and Avalon. The halftime show at an HBCU football game is sometimes the best part of the game. That’s because inside an office crowded with musical ephemera on Morgan State University’s campus in West Baltimore, Melvin Miles Jr. is preparing for the homecoming game. One of the many school bands he directs will take the field at halftime, the Morgan State University Marching Band, the Magnificent Marching
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Machine. The Baltimore native, was also a member of the funk band The Sound Experience, who recorded the album “Don’t Fight the Feeling”. And while every game is important, some, like homecoming, are just a little bit more important. “If you look at what we do and how we do it from a technical stand point, it’s really not that different. The differences early on were we played different music. We went from playing the theme from “Hawaii-5-0” and “Mannix” to the theme from “Shaft,” which was much more mainstream with the audiences we were dealing with,” he said in a recent interview. “I think there’s an element we utilize a lot that most schools don’t do, and that’s the dance routine. In the old days they would call them flash moves. They would flash the horns. Well, we flash for two minutes. “
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The difference, Miles said, between TWIs and HBCUs marching bands comes down to style as well as who plays a role in the performance. “African-Americans bring a certain kind of style to just about anything they do. It’s deeply rooted in who we are and what we do. We really utilize the announcer. It’s a huge part of what we do.” You can expect to see some social commentary amid the party atmosphere the band creates at the game. “I’m working on unity, peace and love. With all the things that have been going on in the community, we’re trying to figure out ways to promote that throughout the season,” Miles said. “Of course, we will do some current stuff. We won’t be able to get by without presenting “Uptown Funk” somewhere, and presenting “I Can’t Feel My Face. Internet memes, however, are
unlikely to put in an appearance. “Don’t expect internet memes like Kermit the Frog drinking tea. Morgan is Morgan and Ohio State is Ohio State, and they’re good at that because they’ve been doing it a long time.” Miles began his Kappa Kappa Psi journey as an honorary member of the Eta Gamma chapter in 1976, Northeast District Governor 1987-1989, National Secretary/ Treasurer 1989 -1991, National Vice President for Colonization & Membership 1991-1993, National President 1993-1997, Chair of the Board 1997-1999 and Chapter Sponsor 2012-2016. In March 2003, he received the “Distinguished Service to Music Medal”, Kappa Kappa Psi’s highest honor. Miles’ legacy can be seen through the lens of the countless contributions invested not only in his alma mater, but
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in the hundreds of lives he has touched through his leadership and genuine care for people. Mr. Miles’ vision is to continue this rich legacy through the Melvin and Cathy Miles Foundation. A fund to support the operation of the band program at Morgan State University. It is with high respect and great esteem that Kappa Kappa Psi recognizes the life-long service and contributions Mr. Miles has made to the Morgan State University community and to Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity. Service, yes Service – “I’m in this for Service” Miles said on an HBCU Collective Zoom presentation January 26, 2022. Miles is all in as Director of Bands at Morgan State University! We salute you, Mr. Miles! Well Done!!
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K appa K appa Psi Lifetime Donors
Kappa Kappa Psi would not be the fraternity it is today without the leadership, vision, and loyal support of our alumni and friends. Please accept our sincere thanks for your ongoing and loyal support. We want to make you aware that the donation lists you will see below are based on the last 15 years of computerized records. We value your contributions to the Fraternity and wish to have you recognized here accurately. If you have additions or corrections to this list, please contact Aaron Moore at moore@kkytbs.org. Strive For The Highest Society $50,000-$150,000
Kenneth Corbett The Bohumil Makovsky Guiding Spirit Society $20,000- $49,999
Derrick Mills Max & Susan Mitchell Al & Gladys Wright The Crown Pearl Society $10,000- $19,999 James Alexander, Jr. Brent Cannon Adam Cantley & Joe Panzer Rod Chesnutt Danny George Steven C. Nelson Adam Cantley & Joe Panzer The Buell J. Staton Charitable Trust The Kerr Foundation, Inc.
The Founder's Circle $5,000-$9,999 Sarah Casias Lance Coochyouma John Finocchiaro Matthew Grieco Marc Martinez Eric Morson Andrew S. Mullin Michael Napolitano Nic Rorrer Ed Savoy Frank Stubbs & Tom Lee Michelle Turenne
The President's Circle $1,000-$4,999 Northeast District Alumni Association Southeast District Alumni Association Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association Stephen Barrett Christine Beason Alison Beidler Michael Blander Greg Boike Mark & Rose Bradbourne Robert Bratcher Marie Burleigh Samuel Cavaliere Adam Connolly Jen Costello
Matthew Cotton Lisa Croston Jen DiBenedetto Sally & Lynn Dixon Gayl Doster Key Bank Foundation Isaac Frank Morgan Fritz Brian Green Alan Harriet Chris Haughee Michael Henderson Michael & Dawn Huskey Dave Justin Ashley Keller Wendell Kimbrough Marco Krcatovich, II Molly Kuchan Jack & Jessica Lee Noah Leininger Jerry Lewis Michael Lindsay Malinda Matney Hannah May Craig McClure Melvin & Cathy Miles Jason Mlady Bruce Moss Peter Murray Rebecca Myers Kelly Nellis Nick Nickodemus David Oakley Joseph Oblick Maxy O'Connor Mike Osborn Elaine Ostrander John D. & Jessica L. Pasquale Nate Pickett Alan Pine Chris Pratt Preston Ramsey Tammi Ramsey Kirk Randazzo Benjamin Rebeske Dan Reisinger Kate Rohrich Charlene Ronne Kadeem Sabari Doug Stotter Daniel Strinkoski Nichole Taylor Evan Thompson Samuel Viggiano Bill Welch Richard Worthington Chris Young National Alumni Association
The Director's Club $500-$999
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Kimberly Ahokas Rick Albani Omicron Alumni Association Southwest District Alumni Association Zeta Chi Alumni Association Nick Annan Debbie & Glenn Baker Nicholas Bratcher Steven Brink Byron Bryson Robert Bylski Kyle Chaulk Kevin Diana Harold Eason Veronica Graves Tim Greenwell Amy & Doug Heavilin Larry Hubbard Henry Kellogg Kasey Lewis Kevin Lindow Victoria Liu Jeffrey Meador Andy Melvin Daniel Miller Kelly Miller Matthew & Holly Moore Michael Osborn Tom Ostrander Brian Parker Denali Pearce-Alt Laura Pike Linda Rae Jeffrey R. Raff Alan Rollow Phil Rubin Franklin Russell, Jr. William Sandy Al Sergel Maria Singer Di Spiva Nick Verbanic Daniel Wingard, Jr. Greggory Woite Kiesha Yelverton Dennis Yu Association of Concert Bands
The Blue and White Club $250-$499 The Garage Lexi Adams Jacque Alston Western District Alumni Association Larry Beeby Tom Billings Kenneth Brodhead Erwin Brown
John Cassidy Bang Co Burt Daigle Samuel Dinkins, III Emily Donovan Paul Droste Bill & Kelly Eidson Daniel Everard Ben Friedman Deb Friedman Michael Golemo Arupa Gopal Corey Herron Edwin Hornbrook Meg Jarrell Chris Joyce Bert King Linda Matney Scott & Carolyn McCambridge Wendy McCann Mark McCarthy Grant Miller Jessica Needham Erik Oliva Jason Ortiz Catherine Oster Gary Overstreet Brian Paster Nathan Pruitt Robert Rahn, Jr. Josh Ratliff Clarence Revelle Eugene Rhemann O. Andrew Rhodes Eric Rowsey William Salluzzo Norman Sanford Walter Schilling, Jr. Dan Schweichler Tom Sirridge Darren Smith Tory Smith Joshua Spaulding Scott Stowell Hailey Sult Jennifer Taylor Krista Tetrick Dave Tyler Bruce Vanderhoof Victor Whitney, Jr. Marcus Wyche Bret Zawilski Burton Zipser
Friend of Kappa Kappa Psi Up to $249 Qdoba The Hideaway Mallory Adams Blakeney Adlam
Patsy Adlam Carter Adler Ron Adolph Ashley Ahr Dominic Alati, Jr. Frank Albers Amy Alexander Renard Alexander Christopher Alsip Midwest District Alumni Association Austin Ambrose Bruce Amsel Ashley Anderson Jacob Ankrum Jay Arnold Ema Carpenter Thomas Avery Mattie J. Awtrey Michelle Banis Clif Banner Jeff Banning Kristopher Banton Anne Barrios Darryl Barrios Heidi Bartholomew Adam Bates Menzo Battle Crystal Bays Christopher Bedard Heather Belcher Kerry Belton Nicole Benedict Carly Bergstein Lemuel Berry, Jr. Karl Bevins Charles Billingsley Anthony Billy Powers Bilodeau Eric Black Laura Blake Casey Blankenship James Bleil Jacob Boesch Anita Bohn Carl Bolte, Jr. Robert Bonar Eugene Bonos Raymond Borrell Frederick Bowers Teresa Bracken Timothy Bracken Justin Brady Meredith Braselman Harold Bray Alex Brock Beth Bronk Caryl Brown James Brown Robert Brown William Brown, Jr. Joseph Bryant Kelly Buchalski Trevor Buchan Michael Buckstein Sky Buffington
Spring 2022 Jordan Burgin Kaylee Burrrell Javan Burrier Deborah Cantley Dino Cardenas Beth Carr Sue Robash Carr Joseph Carr, II Nathan Carreon Andrew Carroll Sarah Carten Bill Cartus Dani Case Toni Castle Gabrielle Cellante Ronnie Chalmers, Jr. Darran Champs Betsy Charles Cassandra Chenoweth Anthony Clay Dr. C. Ron Clodfelter TJ Coleman Charles Coley Caileen Collins Ray Collins Shana Collins Dominador Coloyan Christopher Colvin Emerson Colvin Colter Comstock Michael Conway Christa Cook Miranda Cook Chad Cooper Matthew Cope Mike Coppola Raymon Correa Rebecca Coughlin William Cring Cheryl Crump Arthur Crutcher Mike Cullen Sean Damon Cherry Danielson Jack Davenport Sylvanus Davies Jeff Davis William Davis Gerilee Davison Thomas Deacy Aaron Dean Sara DeDona Brian Del Signore MaryJo Desprez Edie DeVine Scott DeVine William Dick Mike Dill Kathy Dodd Logan Dominguez Facebook Donations Keith Dougerty Townes Douglas Mary Doyle Robert Dubois Blake Dye Micah Easty Andrew Eden Debbie Eder Michael Edwards Tracy Edwards Eric Eisert Robert Eley Johnnie Eller Erin Engle Amanda Esposito Gerald Evans
William Ewan Chad Eyer Dana Facchine Curtis Falany Tony Falcone Jeremy J. Fallon Casey Fariss Paul Faulkner Angela Finamore Angela Finamore Jeffrey Fink David Finkel Jon Firman Kerri Fitzgerald Sarah Fitzgerald John Fitzgibbon Daniel Flores Ross Fondren Danielle Francis Cathy Frank Gerald Frank Rebekah Franolich Bryan G. Frazier Jared Friedl Daniel Fulmer Andrew Fuls Donald Galyean Sidney Gatch Jordan Gilbertson Michael Gillespie Paypal Giving Fund Mali Glaister Howard Gluckman Benjamin Godfrey George Godfrey, III Alan Goeringer Network for Good Griffin Goodman Steve Gowans, Jr. James Graber Jesse Granados Doice Grant Christopher Grapis JP Gravitt Talia Green William Green Nicholas Greeson Patty Griffin Jaydee Griffith Jacqueline Grim Adrian Guess Jonathan Guiot Sara Guse Jim Haden David Hahn Alix Diane Hall Jerome Hall Wilbur Hall Bradley Hammett Denise Hampton Gregg Hankins Robert Hardin Ann Harrington Mariamne Harrington Noelle Harris Michael hart Nick Hartley Holli Hartman Shawna Hatten Amy Hayes Nichole Hazelwood Danielle Hebel Natasha Helme Suzanne Hemond Hiram Henry Vincent Hercules Allyson Heslop
Nathan Hicks Russ Hietpas Eduardo Higareda John Abe Hill, III David Hinman Raymond Holley Mark Hollis Ralph Holloway Donald Hondrum Joseph Horvath Evan Hoskin Nick Hoskins Jamie House Michael Howard Paul Howard, Jr. Nicole Howard-Francis Alexis Howell Jason Huesman Lloyd Hughes Edward Hunter Tron Hunter Sean Hunter Karel Husa William Ingraffia Bill Ivey Rob Izzo Daniel Jackson David Jackson Eldon Janzen Donta Joe Abigail Johnson Roy Arnold Johnson, Life Member, Gamma Pi Vanessa Johnson Kenny Johnson, II Will Johnston Herman Jung John Karandisevsky Alex Keck Phillip Kelly, III Tom Kelman Austin Kelso Raymond Kim Laura Kimberly Linda King Andrew Kinsey Charles Kinzer, Jr. Jean Kloker Arnold Kummerow Eric Ladish Sean LaFollette David Lafont Brian Lamb Ernest Lambert Kat Lambino Jerry Lane Gary Lanman Ryan Largent Kenneth Lastowka Donald Lee Esther Lee Nancy Lee Robert Lee Allison Leeman Christian Leichenauer Kelsey LeRoy Chuck Lester Michelle Letendre Deborah Lewis Kaana Lewis Malinda Lewis Scotty Lewis Tim Liebrock John Lipphardt Michael Livingston Lawrence Lloyd Michael Logan
Ryback Cyzr Lomboy Karissa Longo Kent Love-Ramirez Blake Loy Christopher Lukasik Rebeccah Lutz Alex MacDonald Preston Mahr Meghan Major Jonathan Markowski Darin Martin Thomas Martin, Jr. Adam Martini Peter Marvin, Jr. Frank Marzen Peter Mast Salesforce.org Matching Grant Glenn Mathews James May John Mazarek John McCann Robert McChain Leslie McClure Brandon McCormick John McDaniel Kelli McDoulett Keegan McGill Harold McHail Sheila McKinney Emily McPeake Joyce McPhail Dean McVay Sarah Meisinger Ian Merkel John W. Middleton Mitch Mikuchonis Lauren Milbourn Garland Milford, Jr. Justin Millana Megan Miller Terry Miller Gary Mills Jacob Mitchell Kyle Mitchell Trevor Mitchell Leon Moll Mark Money Aaron Moore Edwin Moore Roderick Moore James Moreland Kristen Moreno Kathy Morgan Debbie Morris Jason Morris Len Morse Brent Morton Eric Moser Dixie Mosier-Greene Tom Mullen Hunter Murphy Betsy Murtola Crystal Nadi Stacey Nagle Alyssa Neel Rodney Nelson Eric Newsome Jude Ngo Viet Nguyen James Nuechterlein Daniel Oakes Tarshae Odom Katie O'Flaherty Patricio Olivarez, III Rachel Olsen Dollie O'Neill
James Orlando Nate Page Toury Parkman Joseph Pearson Marina Pena Guiot Adam Peterson Laura Phillips Andy Pickett Andrew Pickett Bill Piel Christopher Pike Susan Pile Lizzi Pineiro Walter Pittman Scott Powers Heather Pragel Kim Pretzer William Price, Sr. James Prince Chad Proudfoot Phillip Pugh Eddie Raber Linda Rae & Andrew Hertz Penny Ragatz Tenaya Ramey Zack Rebarchek Michael Rich Payton Rielly Cat Robbins Joseph Roberts Kevin Rob-Ford Paul Robinson Jake Rocco James Rocke Richard Rodean Charles Rogol Chuck Rogol Tony Roscoe Ryan Rottman Shelley Rowan Marcus Rowden Donald Rubottom, II Lisa Ruffcorn Franklin T. Russell Seth Sacher Randy Scheid Rosemary Schick Alyson Schilling Walter Schilling Carol Schmidt Kathleen Schoelwer James Schrader Steven Schriver Joseph Sciarrino Michael Sciarrino Franco Scinicariello Kirk Scott Tyrone Scott Lauren Seiler Alejandro Selgas Christopher Senior Matthew Shaffer Bryce Shelton Darryel Sheppard Kayla Shortnacy Will Shropshire Davis Shullenberger Zara Simpson Garth Slack Timothy Slater Marjorie Smelt Brian Smith Darren Smith, Life Member, Gamma Chi Chapter Frederick Smith
Jonathan Smith Justin Smith Derrick Snead Gerald Solomon David & Marilyn Solomon Sharon Soma Nick Sondag Joshua Spears Elizabeth Spirko LeMikkos Starks Joseph Stempien Zachary Stewart Zachary Stoddard Gail Stout John Stratton Eryn Streeter Brendan Sullivan Michelle Taam Barry Taff Tyrone Tarplin Jessie Tatum Aspen Taylor Darryl Taylor Akilah Thomas Michelle Thomas Kyle Thompson Laura Thompson Robert Thurston Michael Trimm Barbara Tucker Jacob Turnbow Thomas Ulrich, Jr. Michael Uttley Antwone Vass Nina Vatter Stephan Vazquez Louis Vespoli Dawn Victor-Herring Anthony Vittore Leland Vliet Jeffrey Waldschmitt Sharon Walker Cheryl Wallace Jeff Wallace Reggie Wallace Dirk Washington Edison Waters Nick Wedler Michelle Wedster Christopher Wee Jonathan Weir Nick Weise Jacob Welper Nicole Wessell Leonardo White Marty Whitehead Lyle Whybrew Clinton Wieden Kerri Winkle Alexandra M I Williams Joe Williams Whitney Walterhouse Kelly Wills Matthew Wilson Antonio Wooden Douglas Woodruff Kaylah Wright-Soler Brent Wyrick Benevity Community Impact Fund Blackbaud Giving Fund Low Country Alumni Association
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The PODIUM
Student NEWS
More Traveling, More Fellowship, More Opportunities for Brotherhood by Mason Smith Epsilon Gamma - ΚΚΨ Alabama State University
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ands, brothers, and sisters across the country were forced to adapt and sacrifice due to the coronavirus pandemic, from practicing with masks and social distancing, to conducting events and conventions virtually. A lot was missed during those months, but what did we miss the most? Something that all band members hold dearly: brotherhood and sisterhood. It is common practice for chapters to meet with one another during football games, connect – or reconnect for familiar faces – exchange gifts, take photos, and even sing the hymn if there is time. It is also common to see new faces at district conventions, growing a stronger bond with those who serve in the same area. Unfortunately, COVID-19 halted those moments we’ve grown accustomed to. Bands were not allowed to travel to away games, CDC guidelines and health and safety protocols did not allow for large gatherings, and interaction with brothers from around the district and country were often limited to Zoom. Granted, we made the most of it: the calls were interactive, and it was still a joy to see brothers and sisters after spending months isolated during the height of the pandemic. Even with those valiant efforts, however, it could not replace the intimate relationships you build by being in person. Just when times seemed at its toughest, 2020 ended and gave way to
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Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma from Alabama State and Jackson State 2021, and things started to go in our favor; COVID cases began to go down, vaccines were created, and most importantly, the opportunity to congregate again arose, starting with the National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Brothers and sisters gathered to acquire knowledge and attend workshops, but more importantly shared spaces with each other, hear live music, and build bonds in a way that was a
year in the making. This year was more than simply gathering in a spot, it was a renewed spirit. That spirit carried over into the football season, where brothers could finally travel and interact with other chapters. Brothers and sisters were reunited for what’s usually the only time you’ll see them, not to consider how much as changed since the last get together. New brothers and sisters joined our beloved organizations, and sadly brothers and sisters, including myself, had to move to the next chapter before having the chance to enjoy the post-COVID experience. That said, it’s still a pleasure to see brothers and sisters smiling and creating new relationships in a time we thought we’d never see. Now with this renewed bond, the brothers and sisters of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma can move forward its goals of musicianship and service. I’ve seen the light and fire in some that I have never seen before, along with a determination to do great things for college and university bands. There is nothing we can do to change the past, or to get back all the memories we missed out on. What we can do, however, is make the most of the time we have now. Take as many opportunities as we can to meet new brothers and sisters, do not take those times for granted, take plenty of photos (you can never have enough), and remember that when we have nothing else, we still have brotherhood and sisterhood.
Spring 2022
Alumni ARTICLES
Adjust to the Situation by Katie Brink Chi - ΤΒΣ Ohio State University
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very year, shortly after announcing who’s made the cut for The Ohio State University Marching Band, our director shows a video of one of our band’s signature pregame Ramp entrances from the late 1990s. The entrance seems to be off to a great start as the band files in from the North endzone, marking time to the cadences of the drumline until the drum major struts out with his whistle. A seemingly flawless execution suddenly goes awry, as half of the band begins the transition into our school fight song, while the other half of the band remains marking time and begins their transition 8 counts later. Once the first section of the band takes off down the field, an accordion effect follows suit, and after a few measures, the whole ensemble has finally recovered to end the fight song in unison. This video is always shown to reinforce the necessity of “adjusting to the situation.” It didn’t matter who was on-time or who was late, who missed the whistle, whose fault it was, or who missed their dot; all that mattered was that the band found their way back together as quickly as possible. This idea of adjusting to the situation is core not just to the OSUMB, but to the human experience as a whole. Every music student learns to make adjustments in rehearsal under the direction of a conductor as they rise to the occasion of learning harder pieces, mastering new techniques, expanding their range, experimenting with different genres and styles, pushing their body to its physical limits, and testing their mental endurance throughout long rehearsals and performances. By constantly striving for improvement, we build the skills of resilience which are applicable not just to our musical endeavors, but also to our personal selves. Resilience is a vital skill when
coping with uncertainty or unexpected obstacles, regardless of how big or small the circumstance. We find ourselves now in an era of high uncertainty and unpredictability. Life, on the whole, is pretty hard right now for all of us; however, we, as Sisters and Brothers, and as seasoned “band kids,” have been practicing our resilience skills for our whole lives and have risen to the occasion. Never has this been more evident to me than during my terms as North Central District President - the culmination of my journey as a Sister thus far. I joined Tau Beta Sigma in December of 2015 during a rather dark period in my personal life, and my Sisters quickly became the foundation upon which I built my resilience. They became my strongest support network and provided safe opportunities for me to test myself with new responsibilities and positions of leadership. With my Sisters, I’ve shared so many joys, from appreciating the accomplishments of our band program or our chapter, to celebrating the successes and milestones of each of my Sisters; I’ve also shared many sorrows, from surviving a campus terrorist attack to supporting each other through personal crises and navigating periods of intense sociopolitical unrest. My time with my Sisters has always felt sacred. So what does that mean when suddenly, we can’t share a space with our Sisters anymore? From my standpoint as the 20192021 North Central District President, I’ve had a unique experience to say the least. I was elected in 2019 when everything was still “normal” - our Chapters were accomplishing bolder and more meaningful service than ever before, we were setting records for participation in National Programs, and we were ontrack to have one of our best years as a
District. That is, until COVID-19 derailed our plans. Our convention, which had been in the planning process for nearly a whole year, was suddenly shifted to a Zoom conference. My college graduation was cancelled. Sisters and bandmates had to cancel their weddings, grieve the loss of loved ones, support each other in the fight for racial justice, navigate major life changes, and cope with all of the curve balls being thrown our way. Despite the challenges we’ve all faced over the past year, I’ve watched my Sisters devise innovative solutions to continue serving the bands in a meaningful way. They’ve executed exciting new service projects, coordinated social events for their bandmates, and perhaps most importantly, they’ve kept their Sisterhood at the forefront of their operations. One key revelation which I’ve learned from my District this year is that resilience takes different forms. Sometimes, resilience requires us to be persistent we continue to practice our instruments despite band being cancelled, we continue to hold chapter meetings virtually despite not being able to meet in person, we continue to initiate new members despite having fewer opportunities for in-person recruitment. Other times, resilience requires us to redefine our metrics of success - we aim for quality over quantity when enacting service projects or recruiting new membership, we dedicate more time to growing our Bond instead of overloading ourselves with business, we establish a new approach to sponsor/DOB relationships. Watching my Sisters “adjust to the situation” throughout this period of uncertainty, and seeing them embrace the opportunity to serve with fortitude and courage, has made my terms as President more meaningful than I could have imagined. “With my Sisters, I am Best”
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The PODIUM
Student NEWS
It's Time to Recharge the Brotherhood by Hunter Harris Epsilon - ΚΚΨ Mississippi State University
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hen COVID-19 infiltrated the band world, it felt like we were led into the midst of the unknown. Nobody knew what the future had in store for us, whether we ever set foot into the football stadium again or even having a marching band in general. Band students across the country started to feel hopeless because COVID-19 interrupted our daily routines. For me, this all began when the Men’s SEC Basketball Pep Bands weren’t allowed to attend the 2020 Men’s SEC Basketball Tournament in Nashville, Tennessee. I just crossed the state line back into Mississippi when I got a text from Dr. Aarhus, Associate Director of Bands at Mississippi State University, stating that our Nashville trip got canceled because COVID-19 cases were starting to soar in multiple states. I did understand why the trip got canceled because we needed to protect the health and wellbeing of the fans and band members around the conference. Weeks after the trip got canceled, Mississippi State started to transition to online asynchronous and synchronous classes, which meant that I had to sit in front of a computer most days and learn. Classes moved online also meant all concert ensembles were canceled, and our chapter meetings were also online. The whole online situation wasn’t ideal for any of my peers and me. Like I usually do, I had to take advantage of the opportunity and keep grinding to the finish line. During this time, I missed my KKΨ brothers due to no more in-person meetings or get-togethers. Some of us miss in-person interactions, whether
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we went to Cookout for food, go to basketball games with the pep bands, or even hang out at someone’s apartment and play games. In our chapter, our sense of brotherhood is one of the most vital elements that continues to flourish daily. So not having this interaction, we settled with online video conferences instead, such as using Webex. During this time as well, the Southeast District Convention was canceled. Fast forward a couple of months, and it’s almost time for band camp. Everybody in the Famous Maroon Band was excited to come back to campus and finally see all their friends they hadn’t seen since March.
It was during this time when COVID-19 cases started to soar again within our state and community. Sadly, band camp was canceled so we could protect all our band members. With band camp canceled, it hit everybody hard once again because it felt like we couldn’t catch a break from COVID-19. COVID-19 was taking a hit on our education, extracurriculars, and so much more. For the entirety of the Fall 2020 semester, our marching band was split into two groups consisting of 200 people each. One group practiced on Monday and Wednesday, while the other group practiced on Tuesday and Thursday. The rehearsal schedule for the
Spring 2022
semester felt like it was the new normal until COVID-19 cases started dying down. Also, during this time, our chapter and committee meetings were still being held over Webex. Our chapter found various ways to connect, whether that is Webex calls, meeting up in multiple brothers’ apartments (while following all COVID-19 protocols), and being there for each other like a counselor would be. Fast forward to the Fall of 2021, the members of Epsilon can finally have marching band without being split into groups, in-person
meetings to embrace the brotherhood we strive to have, plus we had a 14 member MC Class that brought so much energy to our chapter. Through the last year and a half, we have come to find out that we can’t take everything for granted. We all learned that we all need to be there for each other no matter the circumstances. Brothers and sisters, we need to uplift everyone in our chapters ranging from our new brothers to older brothers. COVID-19 has affected everyone’s life differently. We have lost loved ones; some are still in the
hospital due to their health worsening, and people can have lifelong effects. We should use this semester as a reflection point to recharge this brotherhood for the future, as our Madam President Jessica Lee said during her campaign. Let’s be compassionate, empathetic, and open-minded as we navigate these trying times so we can uphold our values as a fraternity and grow as individuals.
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National Articles
NIB Reflections: An Interview with the 2021 Conductor and Composer By Dr. LaToya Webb National Vice President for Professional Relations - TBΣ Assistant Director of Bands, University of Texas at Austin
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he idea of bringing conductors, composers, and musicians together for commissioning a significant concert ensemble work can bring up both excitement and nervousness from all involved. To an extent, everyone feels pressure to manifest the composer’s intent, provide an aesthetic experience, and perform well. Phrases like: “Is my composition too hard or enough to get my initial thoughts across?” “I’m not sure if I communicated that musical idea through my conducting.” “I hope I sound okay on that solo” are typical phrases from the composer, conductor, and performing musicians that are actively engaged in the musicmaking process. Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner and Alex Shapiro have the honor of serving as the conductor and composer for the 2021 National Intercollegiate Band (NIB) at the Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma National Convention. Dr. Turner serves as Dean of the Faculty of Music at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Before her appointment in Canada, she served as Director of Bands at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia. Dr. Turner is an active guest conductor, clinician, adjudicator, researcher, writer, and advocate of new music. Alex Shapiro is an American composer of acoustic and electroacoustic music. She has an extensive catalog
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of various mediums (band, choir, and orchestra) ranging from solo to chamber and large ensemble works. Shapiro is an active speaker, clinician, writer, advocate for diversity, copyright, music education, technology, and music business. Alexs’ commissioned work titled SUSPENDED Symphony for Winds, Percussion, and Pre-recorded Soundscape premiered in the DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, MI, July 13, 2021. For many, this was the first in-person conference and musical performance since the start of the COVID pandemic in Spring 2020. Various emotions surfaced as the NIB music participants went above and beyond to share an intimate performance filled with music. Covid forced everyone to rethink life to adjust for survival, so many experienced emotions during the concert were heavy, confusing, frustrating, reflective, vulnerable, but optimistic. We heard live music, with real musicians, in a concert hall- an experience that many of us missed dearly. Music is an art form that can heal and bring people together. It was so refreshing and rewarding to see the dedication of all working tirelessly to put this successful performance together. Learn more about the 2021 NIB experience as we share the perspectives of Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner and Alex Shapiro through a series of interview questions.
The Conductor’s Perspective -Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner
You have conducted many ensembles in various capacities. What was different about the NIB experience? First of all, for many of us, it was our first experience in a large ensemble setting since Covid. So, the mere act of being together playing music was magical. What made it even more special was that we were strangers brought together immediately through music. I loved every second of it. These students dug in and wanted to do well. We worked hard with challenging music, but there was a collective sense of, ‘we HAVE to do this,’ and therefore, we did what it took to get there.
Spring 2022
Composers are often very busy, which leaves little time to collaborate with a conductor and the performing ensemble. Some composers may not engage with the conductor and performing ensemble until a couple of days before the live performance.
increased the intensity of launching such emotional music. I'll never forget the experience.
Describe the collaboration process and the benefits of working with Alex Shapiro before, during, and after the event. My favorite part of the event was all the time I spent with Alex. We had many Zooms before the live event, so I had a good sense of the symphony and her intent. She was an absolute joy to work with in every way. Yes, I’ve worked with many composers, I love that process, but this longer, concentrated time to work together was special. And the students were able to interact with Alex too, which is common in other honor band experiences, but this was much more concentrated and intense. We really got to know each other well, and it felt incredibly impactful.
Without question, participate! It's a unique opportunity to connect and bond with one's musical peers, work with a world-class conductor, bring new pieces into the canon, and pull a great deal of challenging music together in just two and a half days. Music is a social, collaborative, and communal pursuit, and I can't think of a better example of all this excitement than the NIB and the subsequent conference! Additionally, the support of the people in leadership positions for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma was quite touching. Conductors Dr. Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin and Dr. LaToya A. Webb, and everyone from the Headquarters office in Stillwater, Oklahoma, including Steve Nelson, Tony Falcone, and T. J. Tooley, had my back on everything. They made me feel special while making sure everyone else had what they needed, too!
What would you say to students considering participating in NIB in the future? Do it! This is a chance to meet and perform with like-minded musicians from across the country. Do not miss this opportunity and experience. And the team supporting the event is top-notch! The Composer’s Perspective -Alex Shapiro
Please share your initial thoughts about NIB and the experience. (How did you feel and what were you thinking when first asked to compose for NIB... excitement, inspiration, worries, doubts?) It was flattering to be invited to join a long roster of wonderful composers! I believe it began with band director Kyle Glaser asking me if I'd be interested. I lit up like a Christmas tree at the idea, so he very kindly suggested me to the folks at NIB. To not only write a piece, but provide something that kicks off the convention for so many younger musicians, is very inspiring. I knew what a beautiful opportunity this would be. Why was SUSPENDED composed as the 2021 commissioning piece?
What would you say to students considering participating in NIB in the future?
It's a big gift to any composer when you hand them the keys to a musical castle of their imagination. This was such a commission: a request that welcomed a substantial addition to the repertoire and thus, welcomed my muses! As it turned out, the timing of this particular project was profound, as all of us were in the midst of a global event that turned our lives upside down in myriad ways. My heart was overflowing with intense emotions for which I no longer possessed the words to describe, and it was immensely cathartic to have so much music through which I could express myself. Across the journey of the four movements that comprise SUSPENDED, I hoped that I could give a voice to at least some of what everyone else was feeling. Each of us has had an individual experience through the challenges of our times– not just the pandemic, but so many serious social justice and environmental issues. I end the program note for each movement with an invitation: Scream with me. Cry with me. Laugh with me. Dance with me. I was exceptionally fortunate to have the amazing Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner at the helm to elicit all these emotions from the musicians, and together, convey them to a very receptive audience. It was the first large ensemble event and live performance that any of us, whether on the stage or seated in the hall, had since the beginning of the shutdown in early 2020. Many experienced the sheer joy of finally being together again with colleagues in a physical space, which
NIB 2023
If you’re wondering if the National Intercollegiate Band is an opportunity for you, hopefully, these perspectives have given you thoughtful insight. It’s never too early to start planning. The National Convention is only one year away and will occur July 9-11, 2023, in Orlando, FL. We hope you will consider being part of this time-honored tradition of excellence. NIB is an opportunity for you to meet and perform with collegiate musicians from across the nation, work with an esteemed conductor and composer, participate in the world premiere of a new NIB commissioned work, and make lasting memories. NIB participants are selected through an audition process. More specific audition information will be available on the National Intercollegiate Band webpage closer to the event. In the meantime, please share this information with your band directors and peers (chapter members and non-KKPsi/ TBSigma collegiate musicians). You will not want to miss the next historical eventmark your calendar!
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The PODIUM
National REPORTS
DEIA Taskforce Report NatCon 2021:
“Brother, Look at the Brother in the Mirror” by Donald Lee, Jr., Chair Life Member, Zeta Eta South Carolina State University
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isunderstandings happen because of a lack of understanding, a fear of the unknown, or an inability to see beyond one’s own sphere of influence. Marinate on these for a minute: Do you find yourself using negative racial epithets to refer to someone of a different race than yourself? Do you find yourself using negative sexual connotations to refer to someone of a different sexual orientation than yourself? Do you find yourself disliking, even hating, someone who espouses a different ideology than yours? Do you find yourself pushing aside or outright being rude to someone because of a disability that another person may have? Do you even find yourself disliking someone because they look, sound, and/ or dress differently than you? Brother, look at the Brother in the Mirror. Over the course of the past few months I have had to opportunity to read and study various pieces of literature as well as have the opportunity to speak with many persons with great ideas about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy. One of the things that I learned is that we must engage in difficult conversations and ask ourselves some difficult questions. Questions like: how can we move outside our comfort zone? Do we listen for understanding or are we listening to just respond? When answering these questions, I learned from Bang Co, we have to allow ourselves to feel and lean into our vulnerability. I struggled when writing this, but I devised this definition of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy:
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• Diversity – having differing voices at the table (Are we as a fraternity allowing multiple voices at the table?)
Joe Valdecañas, Alpha Omega chapter brother said that “The main problem that I would like to bring up is representation. As someone who is an immigrant from the Philippines and that grew up in southeastern Pennsylvania where no one looked like me, lack of representation really affected how I viewed myself and how I viewed the world. I think the best example for this in the fraternity is when Bang Co joined the national council. He may not be exactly like me, but I know he has had experiences similar enough to mine that it gave me the confidence to think “if he can do it and succeed, so can I.” Alyssia Price, brother of Gamma Nu, continues with “Diversity is the collection of differences that make each of us unique as individuals. It not only comprises our physical differences, but also encompasses the thoughts, culture, and ideas that allow each of us to have a different viewpoint and perspective on life. While these differences have been used to promote hatred and fear in the past, embracing diversity allows us to be more creative and innovative.” We must be consistent in our efforts to change for the better regarding Diversity. One set of meetings and resolutions with little to no enforcement will not be enough. There is a lack of diversity sensitivity amongst some of the collegiate brothers,
Brother Laurenté Oby, Nu Psi Chapter states. Brother Oby goes on to elaborate that “There was an incident while I was working on the district hymn committee where a brother used language that he thought was appropriate when responding/commenting on an African American spiritual.” Because of this, he believes making DEI training workshops a part of yearly chapter training could eliminate this.”
• Equity – each voice having the same weight and authority at the table (Does each differing voice have the same weight and authority?)
My aunt Linda Green-Jenkins always said “Some people have to let go of their superiority complex. Why spend your energy trying to make me lower than you? Spend your energy working to make everything better for everybody. No one should ever feel like they are better than anyone else because each one of us is great and each one of us is equal.”
• Inclusion – involving each voice the equal opportunity at the table to affect decisions (Do we all have a chance to be involved to be considered?)
Our Vice President of Membership and Expansion, Bang Co says that “Inclusion may look different to different people. We have to check our attitudes so that we may be welcoming for all to
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Are you interested in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy to learn to address your biases? be included, choose effective means of communication, provide equal access to resources and training, make good choices, enact policies that emphasize fairness for all, and provide opportunities for all to attend trainings and/or to run for openings in leadership.” Brother Tarshae Odom, Vice President of Student Affairs states that “it’s horrible that all brothers do not seem to respect all of the brothers of this fraternity, especially the brothers of the LGBTQ+ community who do not seem to have the same level of respect from brothers in the fraternity who are not part of the LGBTQ+ community.’ Brothers Marysa Young of Nu Gamma, Shamara Williams of Lambda Eta, and Laura Hatcher of Nu Nu reinforce the previous point by requesting proper “pronoun usage and more inclusion for everyone on national documents. There are many He/Her or She/Him within national documents, but they would like to see Nationals create a more inclusive/ gender neutral stance on documents.”
• Advocacy – each voice making a way for all voices to be present and accounted for (Can we open the door for others of diversity to have equal opportunity?)
Brother Leigh Ann Brook, Epsilon Epsilon Chapter states, “Naturally, as brothers, we should be accepting of everyone regardless of race, color, gender, sexuality, and a plethora of other characteristics. It is our responsibility to be welcoming to prospective members and supportive of current members. This means understanding our own history and how we are moving into the future. We need to recognize how past practices can be considered harmful and commit to rectifying them. This is something that is second-nature to some brothers but may take a little more time and encouragement from others.”
To be deprived of a voice is the essence of discrimination. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines discrimination as prejudiced or prejudicial outlook, action, or treatment. Discrimination does not contribute to Harmony. Harmony is a function of Love. How can we espouse a belief and feeling of Love with our Brothers while also practicing or exhibiting prejudice toward someone that is different than we or has different views than we, and still call ourselves Brothers in the Bond? Prejudice cannot exist in the same place as Harmony. Prejudice contributes to Discord. Harmony with our fellow brother means that we are tolerant of who/what is different even if we do not agree with one another. If we harbor prejudice, then the question has to be asked, did we learn
nothing from our Ritualistic Vows? Brother, look at the Brother in the mirror. Before we move forward, it is important to mention that we ALL have to be “100” with ourselves regarding our current stance in regard to DEIA. In my research, I had a rathering dispiriting conversation with a brother who intimated to me how, as recently as our 2019 Centennial Convention in Stillwater, she was “regaled” with several racist epithets designed to demean her status as a legal immigrant of Hispanic origin. This same brother was also told by other brothers to "take note of our past and present national leadership and I'm sure you will notice that there has never been a Hispanic and definitely not an illegal immigrant elected to be a national
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officer. There's a reason for that so you may as well get used to it." Even though she was fine with my using her name, I chose not to so that we all could see that this could apply to any Hispanic brother in this fraternity we all hold near and dear. I will say that I am proud to know and work with her and her husband in several capacities in this fraternity and to call her and her husband good friends. Brother, look at the Brother in the mirror. Dustin Bates, Lead Pastor of Cornerstone Community Church in Orangeburg, SC says “It is easier to begin diverse, than to create diversity.” However, “You have to show that diversity in upper leadership through representation. Then those leaders have to advocate that diversity actively to the populace.” “To me, inclusion is making sure that all voices are heard and represented. It is asking for and recognizing different perspectives and viewpoints. It's about recognizing the value that each person brings to the group, regardless of their background or differences, to help our group achieve the best possible outcomes for our organization and the members that we are privileged to serve. It's about ensuring that we all have access to the same resources and experiences in our organization.” Dave Alexander, Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association, Chair “To answer the question of what diversity, equity and inclusion means to me, my answer is one word - necessity.” – Michael Lindsay, Kappa Kappa Psi, Past Member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors Brothers, Are you interested in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy to learn to address your biases? Biases are at the heart of Diversity Issues. Are you here because you REALLY want to know and/or begin to solve this problem? How do you intend to engage with another Brother to learn how to solve this problem? Ultimately, what will YOU learn from these actions? Character is who you are when no one is looking (What you actually think versus what you say in place of those thoughts; what really drives us and what is really behind our decisions). Your character will either bless you or be a curse on you. You cannot outrun your character. Brothers, hatred is like swallowing
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poison and hoping the other person dies, but in reality it is YOU who is dying. Brother, look at the Brother in the Mirror. Because the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy Committee is brand new, we find ourselves charged with venturing into the unknown to lead the fraternity forward along a new path. Mother Theresa of Calcutta speaks our charge in saying “We the willing, led by the unknowing, are doing the impossible for the ungrateful. We have done so much, with so little, for so long, we are now qualified to do anything with nothing.” With that having been said, the DEIA is charged with the following: • Provide support to chapters by answering questions via the DEIA@ kkpsi.org email in a timely manner (within 72 hours). • Create a plan of action for the proposed charges and tasks to be completed within the next 2-4 years: • ask tough questions and have tough conversations about what Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy issues Kappa Kappa Psi is currently facing and provide feedback and input to the National Council that can be utilized in the fraternity’s national strategic plan and/or given to other committees to review and implement; • complete all phases of the PFA DEIA Initiative; • review documents or programs as directed by the National President, and provide feedback through the lens of DEIA regarding bias or other viewpoints; • develop workshops the DEIA committee can present both virtually and at district and national conventions; • work with the Curriculum committee to add an “Our Diversity Matters” lesson to the Road to Wisdom that highlights both our history and growth as an organization over time, as well as the current variety of chapters and brothers throughout the nation; • compile DEIA resources that can be posted on the national website for chapters to utilize and access; • create a DEIA curriculum and/or training that the national fraternity can implement with both the national leadership and our active
members each year as part of required training; • work with the National Council to hold listening sessions to hear and share concerns of active membership; • work with the National Communications team to celebrate our diversity and provide input on social media programming and initiatives. • Prepare a report for each quarter of the committee's work to be shared with the National Council and posted on the National Website. Each one of the charges serves as a discussion in and of itself so these are conversations that must take place in every chapter, district, and nationally. As we move in the new biennium, there are some uncomfortable truths that we all must face. Only with true transformational, servant-leadership can we confront these challenges and make real change that is beneficial for us all in Kappa Kappa Psi. Brothers, we have to take knowledge and turn it into action, turn action into change, and turn change into lasting positive movement. I want to give you a task from Michael Jackson that is applicable to every brother in this room: I’m starting with the Brother in the Mirror. I’m asking that Brother to change those ways. And no message could have been any clearer; If you wanna make the world a better place, Take a look at yourself and then make that change. Strive For YOUR Highest As You Strive For THE Highest!
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DEIA Committee Charges 2021-2023 Provide support to chapters by answering questions via the DEIA@kkpsi.org email in a timely manner (within 72 hours). Create a plan of action for the proposed charges and tasks to be completed within the next 2-4 years. • Ask tough questions and have tough conversations about what Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy issues Kappa Kappa Psi is currently facing and provide feedback and input to the National Council that can be utilized in the fraternity’s national strategic plan and/or given to other committees to review and implement. • Complete all phases of the PFA DEIA Initiative • Review documents or programs as directed by the National President, and provide feedback through the lens of DEIA regarding bias or other viewpoints. • Develop workshops the DEIA committee can present both virtually and at district and national conventions. • Work with the Curriculum committee to add an “Our Diversity Matters” lesson to the Road to Wisdom that highlights both our history and growth as an organization over time, as well as the current variety of chapters and brothers throughout the nation. • Compile DEIA resources that can be posted on the national website for chapters to utilize and access. • Create a DEIA curriculum and/or training that the national fraternity can implement with both the national leadership and our active members each year as part of required training. • Work with the National Council to hold listening sessions to hear and share concerns of active membership. • Work with the National Communications team to celebrate our diversity and provide input on social media programming and initiatives. • Prepare a report for each quarter of the committee’s work to be shared with the National Council and posted on the National Website.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS Bang Co (ADVISOR) Alpha Zeta Adam Cantley (ADVISOR) Omicron Donald Lee (CHAIR) Zeta Eta Rassii Elliott (VICE CHAIR) Eta Omega TarShae Odom Zeta Eta Robert Bratcher Iota Zeta Aliyah Qualls Beta Omicron Austin Myers Zeta Chi Bryan Flippin Theta Tau Natasha Helme Kappa Delta Michael Edwards Beta Sigma Odion Mowoe Zeta Zeta Danielle Wade Mu Beta
Joseph D’Annibale Kappa Upsilon Tyler Long Epsilon Pi Emily Randolph Beta Lambda Kaili Shan Iota Pi Martin Murungi Theta Theta Joey Sacino Iota Kappa Jennastasia “Jay” Chapa Mu Kappa Julianna Brenner Zeta Epsilon Saraina Wise Beta Psi Marysa Young Nu Gamma Samuel Heinze Beta Rho
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National Articles
Morris Brown College (from the movie Drumline) is back after a 20-year hiatus!
By Tarshae Odom National Vice President for Student Affairs - ΚΚΨ & Dr. Kevin James National Board of Trustees - ΚΚΨ President of Morris Brown College
I
n 1881, 141 years ago, HBCU Morris Brown College was founded at Big Bethel AME (Atlanta) Church by freed slaves for African Americans. It is the only school in Georgia founded, funded, owned, and operated by Black people. Morris Brown’s Marching Wolverine band was featured as the big-school rival in the film Drumline, making the college and the band household names. The real-life band played at the film’s premiere and made it to the grand finale in the movie. Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma were featured throughout the film. Many brothers and sisters from chapters throughout the country, specifically the Southeast District participated in various bands in the movie. The Podium featured the film along with our members in the Spring 2002 publication. In 2002, shortly after being a part of the film, Morris Brown College lost its accreditation due to financial mismanagement. The President at the time was accused of misappropriating millions of dollars and indicted on 27 charges, but in 2006 pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement — essentially admitting she swindled about $11,000 (misappropriating student financial aid) to cover administrative costs at the
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It is the only school in Georgia founded, funded, owned, and operated by Black people.
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college. Even without accreditation, never once since its founding has this national treasure closed its doors. With the loss of accreditation, the college went from 2700 to 50 students overnight. The college filed 30-milliondollar bankruptcy, lost most of its land, settled a 9.5 million debt owed to the US Department of Education, and recently settled a 4.2 million debt with the AME church. Most had given up on the college, however, after a little over two years of diligent restructuring under its new President, Brother Kevin James (Zeta Eta, South Carolina State University, 1997/ newly elected member of the KK Psi Board of Trustees), Morris Brown College secured state approval by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission and
accreditation status by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). The institution came into compliance with the standards and criteria to be deemed a quality institution. The school was evaluated by an on-site peer review team which determined that the institution provided sound instruction and appropriate student services. The college became eligible to apply to the U.S Department of Education to participate in financial aid programs and Title IV funding, which was restored in December 2021, after almost 20 years. Such funding was desperately needed to support the students and the overall mission of the college. Morris Brown College just made history! As President, Brother Kevin James leads as the Chief Executive Officer and
is responsible for the leadership and management of all aspects of college operations. He is also responsible for the development and execution of the vision and strategic direction for the college, in concert with the Board of Trustees. Brother James has a career that spans over 22+ years as a higher education administrator, professor, executive business leader and motivational speaker. As President, he helped re-brand the institution, stabilized finances; increased fundraising; expanded and revised academic offerings; and led the college in reaching record-breaking enrollment increases from over the past 20 years. Most recently, Brother James announced Morris Brown’s $30 million partnership with Hilton Hotels Worldwide and CGI Merchant Group to develop a hotel on the college’s campus that provides students with hospitality training in the hotel and restaurants industries. Prior to his position as Morris Brown President, James served as interim CEO of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. He previously held academic administrator roles at Claflin, Strayer, and Herzing universities as well. Brother James was named 22 to Watch in 2022 by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and one of Atlanta’s Most Powerful Leaders by Atlanta Magazine. In 2021 he was named College President of the Year by the Georgia Greater Black Chamber of Commerce. History has been made at Morris Brown College as this is the first HBCU to be restored after a 20-year hiatus. The students at Morris Brown College are fully engaged in the learning process, entrepreneurial in spirit and proud to be part of a longstanding tradition of academic excellence. Brother Kevin James announced that he has plans to resurrect the Morris Brown College Marching Wolverine Band and hopefully reinstate the Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma chapters. The Morris Brown College resurgence story is truly an example of what can happen when brothers Strive for the Highest!
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National Articles
Erika Pope, National President - TBΣ
The Vision of Our Best Intentions
T
he 2021 National Convention for Tau Beta Sigma could arguably be billed as one of the most memorable in the Sorority’s history. On one hand there were lots of recognizable parts and on another, it was already primed to be an event that we would not soon forget as it is not every year that an organization turns 75. It also was even more special, because it was truly as if we were all coming home to each other, after having to stay at home for what seemed like forever. For me, it felt like the culmination of so many years of learning and growing, and standing on the stage that Saturday morning during our 75th Anniversary Celebration, I had the opportunity to share the following as the final word of the celebration and what I hoped would be the continued legacy of the Sorority: Each day members of the organization shape the legacy of the Sorority. From membership candidates to active members to alumni members, all have contributed to the growth and success of Tau Beta Sigma. As today’s opportunities unfold, we hope you are inspired to think about your part in Tau Beta Sigma’s history and challenge you to continue to contribute to our shared legacy. Our story is still being written and as we begin the next chapter, we enjoin each of the members of our Sisterhood to reflect on the foundation on which our Sisterhood was built, to lean heavily into our values, to reaffirm your commitment to our mission, and to do good, intentional work to support the continued growth of the organization. Just a few months from when those words were first spoken, so much has already begun to come to fruition on the National level. In particular, the practice of being “intentional.” The first time I ever really took notice of what some would characterize as an extremely common word in the English language, was when someone used it in the form of a compliment for someone else. I remember thinking that this was a very powerful attribute to bestow upon someone, that you know the person who said it must have truly meant it. As I began to think more about what it means to be intentional and how important it is to strive for this in all that we do in Tau Beta Sigma, I found myself searching topics such as “the definition of intentional/intentionality;” “quotes on being intentional;” “how to be intentional,” and “synonyms for intentional…or better yet, antonyms.” Upon coming up for air from this deep dive on being deliberate, a main focus that I found myself gravitating towards came from a website called simplyfiercely.com, on which they defined intentional living as “examining your ‘why’...asking yourself why you do things - and then being happy with the answers.” Simply put, intentionality
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provides purpose to what you are doing, purpose provides meaning, and meaning culminates to a resolution. In Tau Beta Sigma, many of our ‘whys’ can be found within the Five Qualities and Eight Essential Factors of the Sorority. While these are ideal attributes in which all members should strive for on an individual level, moving with a sense of intentionality as an organization in order to achieve continuous growth, will always be optimally attained through a collaborative effort. Using our Tau Beta Sigma lens, I want to challenge chapters to take some time, maybe set up something like a Google Jamboard, and consider the following questions when examining your ‘whys,’ because once you know that, the ‘hows’ can be readily unlocked: • Why does our chapter exist on our campus? • Why do we serve the way we do? • Why do we recruit the way we do? • Why do we choose our leaders the way we do? • Why did we spend money on [insert the last big thing chapter funds were spent on]? • Why do we program the activities and events that we routinely execute (service or social oriented)? When considering these questions, unpack the responses that are received and if there is anything collectively that the chapter is not happy with, that is where focused revisions should begin. But with any re-examination of the status quo, some cautionary thoughts should also be in the mix. Keep in mind that: You may not have everything figured out on the first try of examining your chapter ‘whys’ and this is okay. Being intentional often requires a few more steps of thought, sometimes research, and most definitely extra planning, but the end results are what will make the effort worthwhile. Taking responsibility for the things that need to change is important, but don’t let the obstacles become the defining moment to which all other chapter items are weighed. Celebrate your successes! It is okay to start small when working towards making more concerted…focused…deliberate…INTENTIONAL efforts. As simplyfierce.com put it, sometimes it is better to start small because “consistency and perseverance are what matter most in the long run.” As your chapter examines your ‘whys’ and formulates all the ways in which you will take on the “good and intentional” work of your chapter, know that your National Leadership is rooting you on every step of the way and we are doing the same!
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Leslie Gartin, Vice President For Special Projects - TBΣ
The Super Duper Amazing Songs of Tau Beta Sigma
A
s a collegiate service organization centered around music, our official songs are important. Many chapters like to start their meetings with one of the songs, we sing them at crucial events; they embody us as an organization with their words and sentiments. But, what do you know about our Loyalty Song, the National Hymn, and Affirmation? Keep reading for some fun facts.
Q. What’s the oldest Sorority Song? A. The Loyalty Song!
Of the three songs we sing, the oldest is the Loyalty Song, having first been adopted by the 1967 National Convention Delegation on the Texas Christian University campus. According to 1967 National Convention minutes, this song was voted to replace the then current Loyalty Song, for the fact that the original Loyalty Song could not be sung appropriately in a somber atmosphere, and the four-part harmonies were very difficult to comprehend. Written by Beta Delta Sister Patricia Ann Woolridge, the song was submitted after a call by the National Council to solicit an original song. When first submitted, Ms. Woolridge made clear the song can be sung either in the four-part harmonies, or by using the single-line melody. During the 2021 National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the delegation voted to amend the lyrics: “God grant us strength to be/ Renewed to join with thee” to “We have the strength to be/And fortitude to serve and lead.”
Q. What’s the shortest Sorority Song? A. The National Hymn!
At 16 measures, the National Hymn packs a punch in a short amount of time! Upon a call for submissions to replace the Loyalty Song in the 1970s, the Beta Eta chapter submitted what we now know as the National Hymn. Upon intense discussion at the 1977 National Convention on the University of California at Los Angeles campus, there was a divide if the Beta Eta written song would replace the Loyalty Song. A resolution was formed when a Sister of the Beta Eta chapter suggested that the new song be used as the National Hymn, while keeping the Loyalty Song in use! (I wish I was a fly on the wall during that interesting discussion). Also, if you’re curious, Affirmation is 37 measures long, and the Loyalty Song is 42 measures of glory!
Q. What’s the youngest Sorority Song? A. Affirmation!
Affirmation Song was adopted by the 2009 National Convention Delegation in 2009, and was written by Emly Santilli and Andrea Davis, Sisters of the Eta Alpha chapter. Ms. Santilli actually wrote the song for her chapter in 2005 when she was an Active member, as a song for her chapter that better fits their musical range, and personalities. When there was a call for song submissions by the National Council in the late 2000s, Ms. Davis set the song to SATB format and submitted it to
the National Council, all while hyping up the song and encouraging her Sisters to vote it in as an official song! As Ms. Santilli stated during her presentation on her composition during the 2021 National Convention, she wanted to write a song that the organization could simply “rally around,” and this song has definitely done that.
Last Q. Was 2021 the only time we’ve made amendments to our songs? A. Heck no!
At the 1975 National Convention, proposals were made to lower the key of the Loyalty Song, but these proposals were not accepted by the delegation! At the 1983 National Convention, the two songs were modified to be gender neutral, as both the Sorority and Fraternity had become co-ed organizations. Also in 1983, the proposal was accepted to have all songs be typewritten. As we evolve as an organization, it’s important our songs evolve, as well as be appropriately preserved as part of our history. During the 2022 District Convention season, the newly created Music Education Committee has been tasked to provide information on our songs, create a call for submissions for recordings of our official songs, and teach the newly updated Loyalty Song! We hope to see you soon at your respective convention.
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National Articles
Edward Savoy Vice President for Programs - ΚΚΨ
Institute Knowledge, Not "Institutional Knowledge"
A
s Brothers, we are blessed to be a part of a long continuum of Brothers, each one enriching Kappa Kappa Psi by their presence and the gifting of their talents. We should and do rely on our Brothers. But where does that reliance hamper the ability to grow as a Chapter? A common phrase I hear thrown around is “institutional knowledge”. When we say “institutional knowledge”, we’re usually not referring to the concept of a physical institution possessing facts (though I’ve definitely had nightmares about sentient buildings). No, we’re referring to teachings and learnings that are possessed by Brothers who have seen and learned much and whom we rely on to learn what we should do. On its own, this is our Fraternity working the way that it should: our Brothers acquiring insight and sharing it with those who carry on Kappa Kappa Psi. However, I’ve often seen the concept of “institutional knowledge” in the context of bemoaning the lack of it. I’ve seen it used as another way of saying “we don’t know what we’re doing because the people who did it are gone.” Maybe the older leadership of the Chapter graduated without training or being able to train those who came afterwards. Maybe the information that was to have been passed down got lost. Maybe there was some miscommunication that meant that something that should have been known wasn’t. If that happens, it can be immensely frustrating to carry on, trying to find a destination without a proper map (or at least without a cell phone with a proper signal.) Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way.
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To make sure that you can find your destination as a Chapter, consider doing these things as you think about next year: • When you schedule your Chapter elections, schedule a transition meeting with the winners a week afterwards, both for your officers as a group and for each officer on an oneon-one basis. Put it on the schedule now and stick to it, so that this isn’t missed. • If you don’t have a Chapter Operations Guide or if each officer doesn’t have a guide to what that office does and how they do it, start building one. If you already have one, make sure you’ve updated it. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate or fancy. Even something that just outlines what you did, how you did it, why you did it, and how you think it should be done next time will give your Chapter great insight on how to build on your successes and learn from your mistakes. • Build a Chapter calendar for next year now based on what you already know. Dates that never change, like National report submissions, you can document now and make a plan for when you need to take steps to complete them. You may not know certain dates, like concerts or sports games, but you can at least start building an outline of your year and fill in that outline when you know more. • Decide on a sustainable, online location where you’ll store Chapter records, documents, and guides, and stick to it. This can be a document repository like Google Drive or more of
a wiki-based environment like Notion. The exact form it takes doesn’t matter. What matters is that it’s a place you agree on, that everyone has the correct access to, and that you maintain. • Think sustainably: if you tie up documents or accounts under someone’s personal e-mail address, it will make it more difficult to transfer whatever is stored there when that person has graduated. Think about having office or Chapter based accounts that can be easily transferred (and then make sure you follow through on that transfer) A lot of this can be difficult to build, and it may take some time to build it well. But, by taking that time, you ensure that your Brothers who hold institutional knowledge can use their experiences for bigger and better things, and that you’ve instituted knowledge that can make sure your Chapter doesn’t forget the past. Think of it as building a legacy just as you’re building Kappa Kappa Psi.
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Allison Leemann, Vice President For Communication & Recognition - TBΣ
Our Communications & Social Media Support Our Mission
T
he Tau Beta Sigma Mission Statement outlines the core focus of our organization: We provide exceptional service to collegiate bands and promote equality and diversity, including empowering women in the band profession. We cultivate leadership, educational achievement, music appreciation and community development. Through Tau Beta Sigma we have the opportunity to shine a light on trailblazing women and individuals from underrepresented voices of the band world. We also have the privilege to create a platform for those individuals who are on the rise to bring their perspective to our community. As a values-based and mission-driven organization that “empowers women in the band profession” it is important that we live out this aspect of our mission. As we started the 2021-2023 biennium our social media took a new perspective on the Women in Music features. The aim isto find new voices and highlight new pathways and careers in music when possible. In addition to highlighting different careers, we seek to recognize the trailblazers and “firsts” as well as current and upcoming educators, performers, and leaders. Each week we bring a new woman in music to the forefront highlighting her role and importance in the field of music as well as how she connects to others in the music community. So far this biennium we have highlighted a range of professions from Music Educators and Directors of Bands to Composers to Music Executives to Recording Artists to Presidents and CEOs and more.
• Dr. Raquel Samayoa - Trumpeter & Teacher, University of North Texas & Seraph Brass • Jessy J - Saxophonist & Recording Artist • Clora Bryant - Jazz Trumpeter & Musical Pioneer • Hope Clayburn - Saxophonist, Flautist, and Vocalist • Angela Nelson - Associate Principal Timpani & Percussion, The Philadelphia Orchestra • Master Sergeant Charlotte Plummer Owen - Conductor, Marine Corps Women’s Reserve Band • Gladys Stone Wright - Music Educator & Founding President, Women Band Directors International • Rebecca Allen - Music Executive, President of EMI Records • Melia Tourangeau - President & CEO, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra • Catherine Hann (Life Member, Eta Zeta) - Assistant Director of Individual Giving, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra • Rene Mark (Life Member, Beta Xi) Digital + Commerce, Geffen Records • Dr. Jessica Rudman - Composer • Joan Tower - Contemporary American Composer • Julie Giroux (Honorary Member, National Chapter) - Composer • Gabriela Lena Frank - Composer & Activist, Gabriela Lena Frank Creative Academy of Music • Debbie Baker (Life Member & Past National President) - Director of Bands • Jen Fletcher (Life Member, Delta Nu) 5th Grade Band Director • Dr. Nikole Roebuck - Director of Bands, Grambling State University “World Famed Tiger Marching Band”
• Jennifer Collins - Director of Bands, Broad Rock Middle School These women’s careers span decades from the 1940s to present day. Many of them are “firsts” for women in their field and worked to create a space for women in the music industry. Some of them may have laid the groundwork for others to begin their career in music. All of them have a passion for music and for their community. It is a joy to share a new woman in music each week on the Tau Beta Sigma social media and live out this aspect of our Mission Statement. As we continue this feature we encourage all Tau Beta Sigma members to consider new careers and pathways for women in music and to recognize the women in music in your community. To nominate a woman in music for a highlight on the Tau Beta Sigma social media, submit their information to the Social Media Participation Form on the national website or reach out to NVPCR Allison Leemann at allison@ tbsigma.org.
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2021-2023 Tau Beta Sigma Biennial Committees Upon the start of the 2021-2023 biennium, the National Leadership Team reviewed all of the long-standing biennial committees for both student and alumni facing work, as well as identified areas where new ad-hoc committees could be useful to the continual growth of the Sorority. In September of 2021, the official Call for TBS Committees application was sent out to all registered Alumni and Life Members of the Sorority and the response was overwhelmingly positive. While the work has already begun, we wanted to take a moment to shine a light on those members who are devoting their time and energy to the “good and intentional work,” of the Sorority. If you are interested in working on a TBS Committee, please reach out to the National Council by emailing council@tbsigma.org. Assessment Committee
Communications Committee
Allison Leemann, Advisor
Eta Gamma, Boston University
Allison Leemann, Chairperson
Eta Gamma, Boston University
Shalyn Nystrom, Chairperson
Theta Xi, Iowa State University
Katie Brink
Chi, The Ohio State University
Lauren Funk
Theta Lambda, Auburn University
Dino Cardenas
Alpha Xi - ΚΚΨ, West Texas A&M University
Kathy Godwin
Omega, University of Arizona
Chanel Epps
Zeta Iota, Jackson State University
Sarah Griffith
Psi, University of Arkansas
Sara Field
Brian Main
Iota Alpha, Marist College
Theta Theta, Henderson State University
Kristin Heverly
Jonathan Markowski
Delta Delta, University of Massachusetts
Eta Sigma, Towson University
Kelsey Reilly
Kianna Wilson Marzett
Eta Delta, Howard University
Omega, University of Arizona
Brittney Washington
Iota Omega, Chicago State University
Music Education & Musicianship Zeta Nu, University of Northern Iowa
Leslie Gartin, Advisor
Erika Pope, Advisor
Theta Theta, Henderson State University
Zeta Nu, University of Northern Iowa
Emily Donovan, Chairperson
Eta Gamma, Boston University
Bev Cohen
Zeta Delta, University of Kansas
Lisa Croston
Alpha, Oklahoma State University
Jen Di Benedetto
Delta Epsilon, Miami University
Sylvia Halbardier
Eta Epsilon, Texas State University
Natalia Harrison
Alpha Omicron, Sam Houston State University
Bianca Jones
Zeta Psi, University of Central Florida
Dr. Jonathan Helmick, Co-Chairperson
Kappa Alpha, Slippery Rock University
Nick Bodin
Alpha Theta, North Dakota State University
Dr. Kerry Simon
Gamma Eta, Mississippi Valley State University
Jennifer Villarreal
Beta Zeta, Stephen F. Austin State University
Braeden Weyhrich
Alpha, Oklahoma State University
TBS Legacy Adrienne Rall, Advising Chairperson
Theta Mu, University of Nebraska Kearney
Jen Di Benedetto
Delta Epsilon, Miami University
44 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
Dr. LaToya Webb, Advisor
Epsilon Sigma, Norfolk State University
Dr. Thea Murphy, Advisor
Theta Kappa, Morris Brown University
Caleb Morris, Chairperson
Epsilon Alpha, University of South Carolina
Dominic Gattozzi
Epsilon Iota, The University of Akron
Kat Grant
Rho, Indiana University
Alaina Peters
Beta Omicron - ΚΚΨ, Arizona State University
Breanna Thomas
Alpha Xi, Bowling Green State University
Nasya Blackwell
Theta Zeta, North Carolina A&T University
History & Archives
Leslie Gartin, Advisor
Renee Cartee, Co-Chairperson
Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Advocacy
National Curriculum Siobhan Wilkes, Advisor Beta Zeta, Stephen F. Austin State University Neil Bleiweiss, Co-Chairperson
Beta Xi, University of Florida
Christopher Lukasik, Co-Chairperson
Delta Delta, University of Massachusetts
Lennie Ambelang
Alpha Chi, University of Northern Arizona
Jasmine Causey
Zeta Omicron, Virginia Tech University
Dr. Emily Dixon
Iota Lambda, University of North Carolina
Megan Enright
Gamma Omega, University of Pittsburgh
Eta Delta, Howard University
Dominic Gattozzi
Epsilon Iota, The University of Akron
Wendy McCann
Tau, University of Houston
Nikki Lyons
Zeta Kappa, Albany State University
Carmin Nowlin
Beta Phi, Florida A&M University
Caleb Morris
Epsilon Alpha, University of South Carolina
Chelsea Rasing
Theta Mu, University of Nebraska - Kearney
Zara Simpson
Beta Eta, University of Maryland
Amber Tubbs
Iota Psi, Kennesaw State University
Chelsea Zuniga
Alpha, Oklahoma State University
Spring 2022
Alumni Association Communication
Student Resource Development Task Force Erika Pope, Advisor
Theta Theta, Henderson State University
Alumni Association Membership Engagement
Mikaela Rhodes, Chairperson
Psi, University of Arkansas
Marissa Archuleta, Chairperson
Delta Kappa, Kansas State University
Kanoshia Duncan
Iota Nu, East Carolina University
VanTarsha Clarke
Delta Theta, Alabama State University
Ciara Gibbs
Eta Pi, Northwestern Louisiana State University
Emily Insalaco, Co-Chairperson
Gamma Omega, University of Pittsburgh
Sami Kinnison
Kellye Cunningham, Co-Chairperson
Theta Nu, Clark-Atlanta University
Psi, University of Arkansas
Jon Leeper
Destinee Bennett
Gamma Rho, Eastern Michigan University
Theta Phi, Hampton University
Tamara Henry
Jennifer Villarreal
Beta Zeta, Stephen F. Austin University
Beta Eta, University of Maryland
Gwynn Neves
Delta Delta, University of Massachusetts
Christy Walker
National Chapter
Nasya Blackwell
Theta Zeta, North Carolina A&T University
Courtney Chervenak
Chi, The Ohio State University
Brittany Coffey
Gamma Nu, University of Texas Arlington
Tyra Yiare, Chairperson
Jacob Curtis
Omega, University of Arizona
Eta Delta, Howard University
Phaedra Dinkins
Lauren Funk
Theta Lambda, Auburn University
Zeta Zeta, Southern University
Heather Marshall
Jess Mayer
Eta Sigma, Towson University
Theta Psi, University of Louisville
Kristin McMullen
Zachary Rebarchek
Zeta Delta, University of Kansas
Alpha Upsilon, Lamar University
Scott Sergeant
Eta Nu, Tarleton State University
Julia Waldron
Delta Nu, University of Maine
Health and Safety Jasmine Causey, Chairperson Julia Waldron
Alumni Association Finance & Marketing
Jessica Smith, Chairperson
Epsilon Epsilon, Kutztown University
Destinee Bennett
Gamma Rho, Eastern Michigan University
Jared Finkel
Iota Chi, University of South Florida
Natalia Harrison
Alpha Omicron, Sam Houston State University
TBS Scholarship & Awards Allison Leemann, Advisor
Eta Gamma, Boston University
Clara Mattheessen
Zeta Gamma, Eastern Illinois University
Kris Wright, Advisor
Omega, University of Arizona
Katie McHugh
Eta Alpha, Syracuse University
Pamela Burgess
Epsilon Chi, South Carolina State University
Chris Reed
Zeta Upsilon, West Chester University
Lashann Williams
Ed Elsea
Eta Upsilon - ΚΚΨ, University of MissouriColumbia; Honorary TBS Midwest District
Zeta Mu, Grambling State University
Zeta Omicron, Virginia Tech University Delta Nu, University of Maine
Alumni Association Programs
Ellyn Gendler
Lambda, University of Michigan
Randy Kitchens
Alpha, University of Oklahoma
Christopher Lukasik
Delta Delta, University of Massachusetts
Alumni Association Scholarship & Awards Jessica Smith, Chairperson
Epsilon Epsilon, Kutztown University
Christina Dean
Theta Mu, University of Nebraska at Kearney
Brooke Lee
Theta Mu, University of Nebraska at Kearney
PODIUM.KKYTBS.ORG - 45
The PODIUM
In Loving Memory
KIMBERLY DOUGLAS ZETA OMICRON (ΚΚΨ) UNIVERSITY OF AKRON September 19, 2021
RICHARD SANTANELLA JR.
SUZANNE FRUTCHEY ALPHA GAMMA (ΤΒΣ) KENT STATE UNIVERSITY September 29, 2021
KAPPA LAMBDA (ΚΚΨ) WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY October 4, 2021
GREGORY BOGGS
SEAN WILLIAM CLINE
GENE "COACH" THRAIKILL
DELTA OMICRON (ΚΚΨ) UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT October 22, 2021
EPSILON EPSILON (ΚΚΨ) SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE U. October 23, 2021
THOMAS ALLANAH
DONALD A. BEALS
IOTA XI (ΚΚΨ) NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY December 2, 2021
PETER MUNDRICK ETA RHO (ΚΚΨ) WEST CHESTER UNIVERSITY January 5, 2022
THETA (ΚΚΨ) OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY December 3, 2021
RYAN FREDERICKS
LAMBDA DELTA (ΚΚΨ) SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY OF PA January 8, 2022
ALPHA OMICRON (ΚΚΨ) TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY November 8, 2021
DELTA (ΚΚΨ) UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA November 10, 2021
REV. TIMOTHY CHAMBERS
TRACY MONROE LUNA
ERIC ROMBACH-KENDALL
DR. VANCE SHELBY JENNINGS
MU SIGMA (ΚΚΨ) - DOB LINCOLN UNIVERSITY December 9, 2021
GAMMA IOTA (ΚΚΨ) UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO January 24, 2022
RADERRIUS COLBERT
THETA NU (ΚΚΨ) NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY February 11, 2022
46 - Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
DR. CHARLES HICKS
DOUGLAS JUSTICE
EPSILON LAMBDA (ΚΚΨ) WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY September 24, 2021
LAMBDA RHO (ΚΚΨ) TENNESSEE TECH UNIVERSITY December 21, 2021
BETA TAU (ΚΚΨ) WITCHITA STATE UNIVERSITY February 9, 2022
The official publication of Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
KAPPA KAPPA PSI NATIONAL OFFICERS
TAU BETA SIGMA NATIONAL OFFICERS
President Jessica Lee jessicalee@kkpsi.org
President Erika Pope erikapope@tbsigma.org
Vice President for Membership & Expansion Bang Co bangco@kkpsi.org
Vice President for Membership & Expansion Siobhan Wilkes siobhan@tbsigma.org
Vice President for Programs Edward Savoy Edward.savoy@gmail.com
Vice President for Special Projects Leslie Gartin lesler@tbsigma.org
Vice President for Student Affairs TarShae Odom trodom4@kkpsi.org
Vice President for Communication & Recognition Allison Leemann allison@tbsigma.org
Vice President for Professional Relations Anthony M. Falcone afalcone2@unl.edu
Vice President for Professional Relations Dr. LaToya Webb latoya.webb@tbsigma.org
KKΨ Alumni Association Board of Directors Chair Greg Boike greg.boike@gmail.com
TBΣ Alumni Association Chair David Alexander tbsaa-chair@tbsigma.org
Immediate Past President Marco Krcatovich, II mkrcatov@kkpsi.org
Immediate Past President Adrienne Rall adrienne@tbsigma.org
Board of Trustees Eric B. Morson, Chair; Dr. Jack D. Lee, Vice Chair; Adam Cantley; Dr. Malinda Matney; Dr. Kevin James; Marco Krcatovich, II, Immediate Past President; Jessica Lee (ex-officio)
Board of Trustees Dr. Dawn Farmer, Chair; Kris Wright, Vice Chair; Rosalyn McDonald; Holli Hartman; Jason Dornbush; Jonathan Markowski; Adrienne Rall, Immediate Past President; Erika Pope (ex-officio)
KAPPA KAPPA PSI DISTRICT GOVERNORS Midwest Denali D. Pearce-Alt denali529@sbcglobal.net Jennifer Pitts-Taylor pittstaylor@kkpsi.org Dr. Nic Rorrer nrorrer@gmail.com
Southeast Arupa Gopal agopal@kkpsi.org Kalem Graham kalem.graham@gmail.com Justyn “JP” Davis jpdavis@kkpsi.org
North Central Marc D. Renaud mrenaud@kkpsi.org Tammi J. Ramsey tammi@kkpsi.org Michelle Banis mbanis@kkpsi.org
Southwest Andy Melvin andy@kkpsi.org Clinton J. Wieden wieden@kkpsi.org Elizabeth Pineiro lizzi@kkpsi.org
Northeast Rassii A. Elliott rassii.elliott@gmail.com Marcia “Marci” Jones marci@kkpsi.org Matthew Parent mattparentNED@gmail.com
Western Lance Coochyouma lance@kkpsi.org Karissa Longo longokar@gmail.com Brian Parker bcparker@kkpsi.org
TAU BETA SIGMA DISTRICT COUNSELORS Midwest Shalyn Guthery shalyn@tbsigma.org Zack T. Rebarchek zrebarchek@tbsigma.org North Central Carrie M. Webster ncdcounselor@tbsigma.org Kellie M. Leitz ncdcounselor@tbsigma.org Northeast Dr. Ted McCadden tedmccadden@tbsigma.org Dr. Bridgette Crawford Bell Bridgette.Bell@tbsigma.org Kathryn Howell kat@tbsigma.org Southeast Neil Bleiweiss neilbleiweiss@tbsigma.org Kelsey E. Reilly kelsey@tbsigma.org Amber Scott amberscott@tbsigma.org
Southwest Chelsea Rasing rasingcr@tbsigma.org Katie Rixon katierixon@tbsigma.org Kathy Webster kathywebster@tbsigma.org Western Alexis Holladay alexis@tbsigma.org Sarah Cox sarahcox@tbsigma.org
Moving?
Don’t forget to notify the PODIUM of your new address
National Headquarters Kappa Kappa Psi Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Fraternity/Sorority P.O. Box 849 Stillwater, OK 74076-0849
Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Jefferson City, MO PERMIT NO. 210
Change Service Requested
Name Address City
State
ZIP
Complete above and return with old address label to: Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma P.O. Box 849, Stillwater, OK 74076-0849
PODIUM & BATON INDEXING PROJECT The Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma history and archives teams are excited to announce a project to index the joint publication of our organizations, The Podium. The Baton is the early year’s publication for Kappa Kappa Psi and is included in this indexing project. The history of our organizations comes alive when you look back at older editions of the publications. As part of the process to document the history of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, we are embarking on this project now so that by 2019 we will be in the position to provide a documented history of our organizations. If you would like to assist in this project, please contact Aaron Moore at hqacc@kkytbs.org. You will be able to do this indexing on your on time and schedule. You will be asked what edition of the Podium or Baton you would like to index (possibly the years you were an active member). We will send you that edition as a PDF document, along with an Excel file to document the issue, instructions, and an example issue. Thank you for supporting Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. We hope you will see the value in this project and commit to indexing one or more issues.