On February 13, 2023, Brian Fraser tragically lost his life to a senseless act of violence. Brian served as the Michigan State Phi Delta Theta Chapter President. As the leader of the Michigan Beta Chapter, Brian was a great friend to his Phi Delt brothers, the Greek community at Michigan State, and those he interacted with on campus. His fellow chapter brothers spent time recognizing the impact Brian had on their lives:

Brian, I first met you in the eighth grade at St. Paul. You were the first new friend I made there. I remember you sat at the allergy table, introduced yourself, and shook my hand. I was nervous about being in a new school, and you made me feel so welcomed and comfortable when you could’ve just ignored me like some of the other kids. After getting to know you that year, Brian, you became one of my closest friends. We were inseparable throughout high school. Whether it be car rides, watching sports, playing video games, or whatever we did on the weekend, you were always there by my side. Every Sunday night after you got your license, you would pick me up from my house to get smoothies. We would drive up and down the lake jamming out to music and talking about anything that came to our minds. Along one of the countless car rides we took with one another, we decided to be roommates if we decided to go to the same college. Both our choices ended up being MSU, and before you knew it, the guy I met at the allergy table in eighth grade was my roommate at college. We were so excited to start our college journeys together. It was the most exciting time of my life. During our time as roommates, we spent virtually all of our time together. If I wasn’t at class, I was with you, Brian. We grew so close to one another during our time as roommates that it felt like we were more family than friends. We knew we wanted to join a fraternity, and Phi Delt was the first house we went to during recruitment. The second we walked through the doors of 626, the men of Phi Delta Theta greeted us with kindness and respect. During our time in the Fraternity, you matured into an amazing leader and an even more amazing person. You were elected president of our chapter unanimously. Brian, you touched my life in ways I cannot even explain. You are my rock, my best bud. If I ever needed anything, I knew you would come through for me. No matter where we went or what we were doing, as long as you were there, I knew it would be fine. You had the greatest smile in the world, and you worked hard for it. Those pearly whites didn’t come for free. Many methods were done to perfect those things, I saw it first hand, you name a teeth whitening method, and Brian did it. It made your smile so special, though. You lit any room you walked into, and it was so contagious. You always showed so much joy and would not accept it if we weren’t doing the same. Brian, you were such a bright light and brought happiness to an unbelievable amount of people. Everyone needs a best friend in their life, and I can’t explain how honored I am to be able to call Brian mine. You were the best friend I could have ever wanted, exactly the person I needed. The tears now are only temporary, but the memories we made, the conversations we had, and the bond that we shared, will live on in my heart forever. I can’t explain how thankful I am for you, Brian.

Brian has been my friend since the fourth grade when we would play each other in Little League games. It started with talking and getting concessions after our baseball games. When we were older, we would go on drives and sing our favorite songs, talk about our lives, giving each other advice. He was a brother to me, and he was my best friend. We would attend numerous sporting events together and cheer on our favorite sports teams. We debated what moves we needed to make for the teams to improve. Brian was a year older than me, but he was the older brother that I never had. He would give me advice and lead by example. Brian would make me laugh and smile by cracking jokes or even just walking into the room. Brian was the one who got me to join Phi Delta Theta, as he showed me what true brotherhood was. We were on e-board for the upcoming semesters, and I got lost on what to do. Brian was constantly there giving me feedback and advice. He made sure I was okay. We began to get closer and closer as we shared many classes together. I would visit him in his dorm while waiting for my next class. We would have heated Madden games where it would usually end in him winning. He was always there for me and willing to talk. Brian was not only a friend but my big brother.

Brian, words cannot describe what we are all feeling right now. You never deserved any of this. Such a beautiful young man with so much to offer. I am so blessed to call you a cousin, friend, and little brother. I am beyond proud of your accomplishments and lucky to have known you since the day you were born. From family vacations as a kid to watching you lead within the Fraternity, I’ve been blessed to watch you grow. I’ll never forget how adventurous of a little kid you were, always running around, always so curious, and then you were in college with me. I couldn’t have been happier. I’ll never forget the first chapter meeting when you became president; I was beyond proud to see you lead, not to mention how easy you made it seem, looking like you had been president for years. Just so confident, level-headed, and always on the lookout for everyone else. I love you, Brian. Rest easy. You made the world a better place for us all.

Brian was one of the most genuine guys that I have ever met. There was truly never a dull moment in his presence. He constantly had that big bright smile on his face and never failed to crack a classic awful dad joke we all secretly loved. Brian was my twin within the Fraternity, and that built a special bond between us. He was incredibly dedicated to growing our chapter and always made the extra effort in any circumstance. Brian was one of a kind with such a charming personality. He will always be in our thoughts, and I will cherish the memories we made together forever.

Brian was my brother and my friend. He was a great soul and will forever be of the best guys I have ever met. I learned a lot from him, serving as his vice president. We worked closely together and enjoyed collaborating. He was a smart and funny guy who knew how to lead by example. He was a great well-respected leader; he was very dedicated to our chapter and did everything he could to make us grow and become the greatest version of ourselves. I only met him as a freshman, but he impacted my life and many others. He was a role model to many and made everyone around him a better and brighter person. I know that Michigan Beta will continue to carry on his legacy and make him proud as he did for us. We love you, Brian, and will never forget the impact you had on each and every one of us.

Brian Fraser was one of the kindest, most genuine, hard-working, and most dedicated souls anyone could ever come across. I had only known Brian since we met a little over a year and a half ago as two freshmen who had joined the same Fraternity. Since then, I have gotten to know Brian very well. As president of our Fraternity, he could light up a room with just his presence, and at the same time, he valued everyone’s opinion and thought equally. Everyone loved Brian. As president of our Fraternity, he proved how dedicated he was. From his serious talks to his terrible dad jokes (which were secretly very funny), I loved every second I spent with Brian. He is the type of person everyone should aspire to be. Brian, you will be my brother for life, and there won’t be a second that I won’t miss you. Rest easy, Brian. We all love you.

I only knew Brian for six months, but it felt like an eternity. Brian was an easygoing, genuine guy that deserved more than this. He was such a great guy from the day I met him, and he would always lighten the mood when he walked in with that huge smile. He will forever be someone who taught me so much in such little time. When I first met him at the beginning of this school year, I never thought a friendship would grow so fast. From introducing me to new songs and bringing food back for the game after his shifts, to the really hilarious arguments we would all have for no reason at all, and the laugh I can still hear repeating in my head, there was just so much more that was still left for us to do. He was not only a friend but a brother. He cared so much about everyone in Phi Delta Theta and did his best to create a better chapter, brotherhood, and bond for all of us. I will never forget the memories we had within the last six months. You will be in my thoughts for so long, and the memories will never be forgotten. Words cannot describe my feelings right now. Thanks for making the world a better place. Rest easy. Love you, Brian.

I didn’t know Brian until I came to Michigan State, but he was one of the most genuine people I’ve met, always looking out for others, someone who was inclusive and a brilliant guy. Someone who did make the world a better place, and his actions within Phi Delt were superior. We will always continue your legacy, Brian. I am so grateful to know you, and we miss you always.

I am beyond blessed to get to know Brian as not only a human but as a friend. You always had a smile on your face and were the kindest and most generous person I have ever gotten to know. You will be deeply missed but will cherish in our hearts forever. Love you, Brian. Rest easy, brother.

I have been friends with Brian since I was around three years old. We grew up together, we played sports together, and our families were very close to each other. Every memory I have with him, I will cherish forever. Valentine’s Day will never be the same. Instead, I will spend the day shining a light on the life of my lifelong friend, Brian Fraser. Brian, I can’t even express the pain I am feeling. All I can leave with this message is that I love you, Brian. You and your soul deserve eternal joy, peace, and harmony for all of eternity. You will be deeply remembered in the core of my being, forever. I love you.

I only knew Brian since the beginning of this school year, but in that time, I became close enough with him to learn that he was one of the most genuine and kindhearted people I had met in my life. In countless times being with him, he never had a bad look on his face nor had a reason to. There was no one more I would’ve wanted as our leader, and our Fraternity was in the best hands it possibly could have been. Brian, you were the best brother, president, and friend. You will always be remembered.

I only got to get to know Brian a year and a half ago, and I am such a better person for getting the opportunity. Brian was one of the most genuine and kind kids I have ever met. He was a true friend that was pushing for you to be better and helping you along the way. I am truly honored to have gotten to know you and call you a fraternity brother. You will be remembered in everyone’s lives that you touched. I wish you and your family all of my prayers. Rest easy in heaven, Brian.

Brian Anthony Fraser was a kind, mature young man and an incredible leader who would do anything for his friends, family, and brothers. Although I only met Brian this fall semester, it felt like we had been friends for a long time. I never saw Brian without a smile on his face, and he would always greet me with a big hug, and we would talk about everything that was going on in our lives. He was an amazing big brother and was always willing to help me with school or life. The world lost an unbelievable person this week, and nothing can ever change that, but I know that Brian is in a great place and is now watching over all of us. I love you, and you will always be missed. Rest in eternal peace, my friend.

Even though I came here not knowing Brian at all, I’m beyond blessed and very grateful to have gotten to know the kind of person he was. I don’t think I’ve ever met a more down-to-earth and genuine person like him. He was super welcoming, and I’m proud to call him my president and an even better brother. Even though this is a difficult time for all of us, we can at least know that Brian was very proud of all the guys in this chapter, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Brian, I know you’re in a good place now. I hope you and your soul rest in peace for eternity. I wish my greatest prayers on you and your family because you all deserve our love from us. I love you as a friend and brother, but more importantly, we all love you as a family. May you rest in peace.

Brian was someone that lit up the room wherever he was. He was welcoming and caring; you could tell how much he cared about many things and people. I’d always call him, and he would talk your ear off about how we could better the Fraternity. I always looked forward to seeing him behind the counter at work. I wish all the everlasting light and joy he gave us upon him. He made this world a better place. Rest easy. I love you forever, Brian.

Brian Fraser was one of the most genuine, down-to-earth people I have ever been lucky enough to know. He exemplified a role model to everyone, was dedicated to the betterment of our chapter, and pushed everybody to be the best they could be. Brian had such a bright personality and always brought positivity with his presence. Although I only knew Brian for a short period of time, the impact he has had on me will be long-lasting. We will always remember him for the amazing young man he was, and we should all learn to be more like Brian. I am honored to consider you my fraternity brother. I will cherish the time I spent at MSU with you and pray that you watch over us all from Heaven.

I’ve known Brian since my freshman year at MSU, where we were both first introduced to the great brotherhood of Phi Delta Theta. We worked at the same country club in the summertime, and I would see him before our shifts before we went separate ways to our duties. Even when we were running late, he would always stop to say hello and ask how I was doing. Brian’s father was a member of the country club and was kind, just like Brian. Mr. Fraser and I had talked about Michigan State, how my shift had been going, and Brian. I want to thank Brian for always seeing how I was doing, making sure everyone had a smile around him, and caring so much for all of us by being a great leader, brother, and friend. To the Fraser family, thank you for allowing us to get to know Brian. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

I met Brian earlier this year as I rushed Phi Delta Theta, and I remember him immediately being one of the most welcoming guys there. He would go out of his way to make everyone feel welcome, and his leadership was like none other. I always remember how happy and outgoing he was and never failed to make any of us laugh. He told us stories about the parts of Grosse Pointe and Belle Isle and how many memories he had at school with his fellow fraternity brothers. Brian was just such a great guy. Watching him lead inspired me to want to do the same later down the road. Thank you, Brian, for the countless memories at the house, for your smile always lighting up the room around you, and for always being willing to talk even when we were setting up last minute before an event. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family members and loved ones. May he rest in peace.

Although I’ve only known Brian for six months, his legacy will last a lifetime. Brian was one of the most authentic guys I’ve ever met. He was a compassionate, empathetic, and driven leader who always had the best interest of others in mind. If there was an issue or if I had any questions, I never hesitated to reach out to him. One of my favorite memories of Brian took place on my initiation night, where we laughed, joked, and reflected on all the memories we shared throughout the semester. I’ll never forget walking through the doors of the Phi Delt house and feeling welcomed by his beloved laugh and smile. He lit up an entire room. We’ll never forget his impact on our Fraternity. Rest in paradise, Brian, until we meet again.

Very rarely do you come across a guy like Brian. Not only did he care for the Fraternity a great deal, but he cared for all of us as individuals. When talking to him, I could tell he was interested in whatever I had to say. I met Brian when I joined Phi Delta Theta in the fall of 2021. It was then that I realized the type of man Brian was and the great personality that he always had with him. Whenever Brian would walk into the dorm, he would have a big smile on his face, which usually turned into smiles on our faces. I am going to miss seeing you around. I send prayers to Brian and the Fraser family.

I met Brian during my first year here at Michigan State. You could tell from the start the kind of guy Brian was, a loving, caring individual who put himself second. His leadership and dedication to the Fraternity was something special. He cared a lot, and I mean a lot. I will never forget the impact Brother Fraser had on me. Brian, you taught me a lot about life. Never would I have thought you would be gone. After these last three semesters, I am happy to call you my brother. You made everyone around you a better person. You lifted the mood in every room you walked in. Thank you for shining a light in my life. Thank you for being a friend and brother. See you in another lifetime, brother. Rest easy.

I met Brian during my first year at Michigan State. I had encountered him weeks before joining Phi Delta Theta together. From that moment, I knew what kind of guy he was, a caring, genuine, and charismatic individual. As I got to know Brian, we built a friendship that will last forever. He could always brighten the mood with his contagious smile and charismatic energy. He cared deeply about his family, friends, and Fraternity. He is the most dedicated and hardworking individual I have ever met. He was more than just a great friend; he was a great son, brother, and individual. Thank you, Brian, for all the great memories. I won’t forget them! See you in the next life, brother. I will miss you, always.

Fraser, though I only have known him for about a year and a half, it feels like I’ve known him forever. He lit up every room he walked in. There is not a single person who didn’t like this guy. There are not enough words for how great of a person, or leader, and friend Brian Fraser was. Thankful for all the time I got to know this incredible person. I will forever cherish all the memories with him. He was and is loved by so many. We will never forget you. Rest easy, my brother. You made our chapter and this world a better place.

Fraser was an inspiration to everyone around him. While only knowing him for a year and a half, I knew he would be someone I could count on for the rest of my life. Brian was one of those guys who was just impossible to dislike. He was smart, funny, and a great leader. Most importantly, I never saw him without a smile on his face. He brought happiness to everyone around him, no matter the situation. He will forever be in our hearts, and we will continue to spread joy in his honor. Rest easy, Brian.

Brian was one of a kind, and the world lost an amazing individual. I did not know Brian before he joined Phi Delta Theta, but as soon as he joined, I knew we needed someone like him in our brotherhood. He cared for us as a Fraternity, but most importantly, he cared for us as individuals. Brian led by example and pushed us to be the greatest version of ourselves. You are loved and missed by everyone, Brian.

Brian was the nicest and most genuine guy I have ever met. From the day I met him, he was always so outgoing and had a smile. Sadly, I had only met him this year, but it did not take long for me to be able to tell what kind of person Brian was. You could tell who he was after just one conversation because he cared for everyone around him. Brian brought joy into the lives of everyone who knew him. He was one of those guys that got along with everyone. He was a natural leader and friend, and I feel honored to call Brian my brother. He will be missed greatly by everyone and will forever be in our hearts. Rest easy, brother.

I met Brian around this time last year and immediately knew he was someone I wanted to be friends with. He was one of the main reasons I decided to join our Fraternity because of how passionate he was about it, and that was my favorite quality about him. Brian talked with passion and charisma and always wanted the best for everyone. He was someone that could lead and inspire while at the same time being there for you and providing laughs and smiles when needed. Brian always tried his best to teach me how to play Euchre, even when it took a bit longer for me to understand, and for that, I will always be grateful. His presence lifted the room, and I will cherish our last memory forever. Brian will always have a place in my heart, and I will honor his legacy of making a change for the best in our world. Rest easy, Brian. You are so loved.

I met Brian last year during our first year. We went on spring break together, and what a great time that trip was. Brian had the time of his life, and we shared many memories I will cherish forever. He lived in the dorm down the hall from me, and we would always be together. Whether we were hanging out in my room, eating together every day, or lifting together, most of all shared great memories. He was just a genuinely great guy. Even if he was having a bad day, there was always a smile on his face. Even though he had a bunch of jokes that never landed, I wish I could hear one again and probably not laugh again, like usual. We shared so many memories in such a short time we knew each other. Brian was a great friend, a great person, and most of all, someone I called my best friend. He will always be in our thoughts and prayers, and I wouldn’t change the moments we spent together. Love you, Brian, until we meet again.

Brian was someone you could always count on to reside your feelings to. I met Brian early on in my first year at Michigan State, and we became close within our pledge class. I will miss all the times he came to my dorm at Campbell and introduced me to all his friends from back home. It was an incredible honor to meet people from his past and be a part of his life. He always lightened up any room when he walked in with his smile and sense of humor. On the first day of sophomore year, I visited Brian’s dorm to see his new room. Something that Brian said that will always stick with me was, “I really missed you. I’m glad you’re here.” Those words were incredibly important to me and will stick with me forever. He never failed to make you feel welcomed and a part of something. I wish I could tell him how important he was to so many of us and how he influenced me and many others. Brian, you were a compassionate, loving, mature, and humble human with so much love to share. Your leadership and integrity within this fraternity will not go unnoticed. You will forever be in our minds and hearts. Rest peacefully, Brian. I love and miss you.

Brian was one of my closest friends during pledging. We saw each other nearly every day. He was truly my brother, and I’m beyond devastated I must go through life without him. My favorite memory with Brian was in Fort Lauderdale. We spent the night walking around, laughing, and enjoying ourselves. I’ll cherish the good times we shared and miss you more than you know. Love you forever, Fraser.

Brian was a well-spoken and charismatic person who could lead everyone and anyone. Brian’s dedication to the Fraternity, academics, and whatever was in front of him was unmatched. Brian had an incredible personality and a priceless smile. His presence was always known and always there for everyone. I met Brian during my pledge semester last fall, and despite only knowing him for a short time, his impact was immeasurable. He motivated everyone around him to become the best person they could be. I recall many minor but impactful moments with Brian that made me feel welcome and at home at Phi Delta Theta. I was truly honored to have the opportunity to have known Brian, and he will always be in my heart. Love you, Brian.

In the short time I knew him, Brian became a role model for me and many others around him. He set a standard for his peers. He encouraged everyone to become the greatest versions of themselves. Brian put others before himself. He wanted to make everyone around him better. Brian’s kindness, selflessness, and attitude made him a role model. He will always hold a place in my heart and others. It was truly an honor to call him a brother. Until we meet again, rest in peace.

Brian was the perfect person to represent all of us as a leader, person, and friend. In the short time, I knew him, I never heard a negative word about Brian, which shows his integrity and character. Brian’s future possibilities were endless, as his charisma, intelligence, and kindness made him someone everyone wanted to be around. On the Saturday before his passing, when I last spoke with him, I asked if he had to be at the event because he was president, and he said, “No, I just want to be here.” Brian lit up every room he stepped in. I can only hope one day I’ll see him again. Rest in peace, Brian.

Brian was loved by all. I have so many memories with him, and not a single one was ever bad. From memories such as Fort Lauderdale for spring break or a concert in our front yard, he always had a smile on his face. I remember one day, he walked into my room and told me he was planning on running for president and asked if he had my vote and if I thought he would do a good job. I told him he would have my entire pledge class’ votes, and I knew he would do great things for this Fraternity. As president, he was already paying old bills that the past executive boards had put off and planning events. Brian had already accomplished so much at such a young age and had so much life ahead of him. It’s unfair that we have to spend it without him, but I am so lucky to have gotten to know him in the first place. I love you, Brian. Fly high.

Brian was my leader and brother. He was one of the first brothers I talked to on the first day of Phi Delta Theta’s recruitment week and made a lasting impact on me after my first day. I remember the next day looking for him because he was such an open and outgoing guy. Brian was what many people should strive to be. He was only president for a few months, but he had so many great ideas, plans, events, solutions, and future aspirations that would help this Fraternity and everyone in it. If I had a problem, I would go to Brian. Brian always knew what to do in every situation, and I could not have asked for a better leader and friend. I love and miss you, Brian.

I met Brian last year during the first semester of recruitment; I was the recruitment chair. From the moment I met Brian, you could tell that he had all the qualities of a true leader; he was kind, understanding, and strong. Brian was the best of all of us, and we will miss him. I’m genuinely honored to have met Brian; he will always be my brother.

Brian was a part of the fall 2021 semester pledge class. I remember meeting Brian on the first nights of recruitment. Brian was charismatic, interested, and driven. When you spoke with Brian, you could tell he was a leader. It was no surprise when Brian reached out to me to tell me he was running for president of our beloved chapter. I am a previous president, and it was a no-brainer that Brian was the right choice for the job. When he started his presidency, you would have thought he had years of experience due to being so calm, focused, and patient when leading our chapter. We all love you, Brian. Rest easy, brother.

Brian, I will cherish the memories of Grosse Pointe over the summer and fall break. Although we weren’t extremely close, we were still great friends, and I’ll miss you, man. I’ll miss you in our 8 a.m. class. I know you’re in a better place, but this is surreal. You were an amazing friend and had such a big heart for everything. As president, you wanted to bring us together and work with the chapter on improvements. There will not be a day I won’t think about you. Rest easy, Brian.

Brian, in the short time that I have known you, I have looked up to you so much. You truly embody everything that makes a gentleman. You are incredibly devoted and caring for those around you, constantly lighting the rest of our days with the love that you share with us. You were fearless in leading our Fraternity and did it unselfishly for the benefit of everyone else. We will strive to take every day of our lives with the joy you spread to us. Our brotherhood will forever live on through your impact. Rest well in paradise, brother. I love you so much.

Brian was so much more than my brother or fraternity president. I didn’t know Brian for long or was as close to him as others, but I couldn’t help being influenced by him. He was one of the kindest and most genuine people I have met. Brian was the best of us, and we will strive to be more like him. Rest easy, brother.

Words cannot describe how amazing Brian was. The first time I met Brian was our Big/Little night when I found out he was my great-grand little. I had a fantastic time getting to know Brian and bonded with him that night. What stuck out to me the most was his character and values. Brian was both the kindest and most caring person I’ve ever met. He put his brothers over himself and exemplified what true brotherhood means. We will never forget Brian. We will continue to celebrate his life every day for the rest of our lives.

I met Brian in the fall of 2021 while he was a Phikeia. Immediately upon meeting him, I knew that Brian cared about the Fraternity. I knew that he would contribute to making Michigan Beta amazing. Brian was not only charismatic and fun to be around, but his leadership as president was inspiring and made me want to do better. I wish I had spent more time with him, and I’m sure all of us feel the same way in that regard. In coelo quies est, Brother Brian.

Brian was one of the first brothers in Phi Delt I met during recruitment. I have never felt more welcomed or comfortable around someone I just met. There was something about him that was just different than others. His smile was genuine, and he possessed leadership qualities I had never seen in someone before. He always seemed to light up the room when he walked in. I felt like I had someone to go to because of him. After initiation, I felt a genuine brotherly connection with Brian. When I heard Brian was elected president, I knew he would positively change the Fraternity. I was lucky enough to interview him, and the one thing that always stuck with me that he said was, “I want to change the world around me.” And he did. He was always smiling but serious when he needed to be. Brian wanted the best for everyone and inspired me to do better. The world around you was lucky to have you. I love you, Brian, fly high and rest in peace, my friend and friend for life.

This semester is when I started to get to know Brian. From the first real conversation I had with him, it was clear how genuine he was. He always made sure everyone was smiling and having a good time. He was a very kind person, our leader, and he will be missed by everybody. It was a privilege to know him. We love you, Brian. Rest in peace.

When Brian was elected president back in December, I could just tell that he would do a great job. He was always able to speak in a calm and professional manner. He had every quality that you look for in a great leader, and he made everyone feel that they belonged. Since I previously held a position, I knew Brian would have his work cut out for him, but he was ready for every second of it. When we met up at the bank to transfer his name to the bank account, he was so professional and knew exactly what to do; it seemed as if he had been president for over a year. His dedication to the Fraternity and to being a great leader really showed. I truly wish that I could’ve gotten to know Brian better. Brian, you will be greatly missed, rest in peace.

I sadly only had a very short time with Brian regarding getting to know him, but there was never a dull moment in that span of five months. I remember the first time I got to know him. He took interest in me and allowed me to connect with him every time we spoke after that. The conversations were always very genuine, and I could tell he was one of those people in our world that wanted nothing but the best for others and was always interested in talking about something, whether it is just a simple exchange or a personal topic. When he got elected as president, I did not really know what to expect since I was still all new to this, but not once did he fail expectations. Brian was always on top of his game, he was ready to help anyone, willing to make time for others, had a huge amount of patience with everyone, and always kept me and my fellow brothers in line. Words really do fail me to describe Brian, but he was such a great fellow student and brother to have by my side, and I am honored and will be forever honored to call him my president. I will greatly miss you Brian and do my best to carry on the legacy you formed. Love you, Brian.

Brian left a smile and contagiously positive energy in every room he entered. There was never a time Brian was not smiling. Truly one of the nicest people to be around. The moment I met Brian at rush I knew he would be a great member of Phi Delta Theta and a courageous leader. He was an amazing person and a light in all of our lives. He will be missed by every one of us tremendously. We all love you, Brian.

I have only had the pleasure of knowing Brian for six months and in that time I was reminded every day of the kind, caring, and happy person he was. He took his role as president head on and everyone was excited to see the great things we knew he would do. From seeing him cleaning after chapter and taking countless responsibilities to better our Fraternity, he cared about every single one of us, and we all knew it. I introduced him to one of my lifelong friends and we ended up talking for a while. After we left, my friend told me how great of a guy he was and how he made him feel so welcome. He truly was one of the best people I had the honor of knowing. We will miss you, Brian. I love you.

From the day I met Brian during recruitment, I knew that he was someone that we wanted in our Fraternity. I also knew that he would be someone who everyone in the chapter would become great friends with. Getting to know Brian throughout the years, I don’t think I’ve ever met such a respectful and kind soul. In the way he carried himself around everyone he met, you always had a great conversation or encounter with the kid. When Brian approached me about becoming chapter president, I never had a doubt in my mind that he would not do an outstanding job and that’s exactly what he was doing. Handing that position over to him, I knew that chapter was in the hands of someone who had high expectations not only for himself but for the entire chapter. He would constantly reach out to me before he took over, always wanting to know more about the role and things he could do to be a great president. Not only was I able to become closer to Brian through that experience, but being a frequent customer at the Union I would always walk in there hoping to see Brian’s big smile and hopefully have a conversation with him. The number of times we saw each other at the Union will never be forgotten and it breaks my heart knowing that I won’t be able to experience those conversations anymore. Brian is someone that everyone is lucky to have come in contact with if they ever got the opportunity, and I’m so grateful to be able to call him not only my friend but also my brother. Brian, I know you are up there watching over all of us right now, and I want you to know that everyone you have ever met will continue your legacy and has been made a better person because of the impact you had on people. We love you Brian, and you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace with our lord, until we all meet again.

Brian, I never would’ve thought I’d be writing this. I always thought we would’ve been talking about memories years from now. You were an amazing person with a way of always making people smile. I pray you to know the impact you’ve had on everyone around you. Even when you were complaining you always had a way of smiling through it. You’ll never be forgotten, my friend.

Brian was one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever met. Words cannot describe the pain we all feel, to losing such a great soul that you were. The loving smile and positivity that he always brought was something truly special. A selfless and courageous leader, who cared so much about the Fraternity and each and every person around him. It was a privilege and honor to have you in our presence and you will be dearly missed. Forever a brother to all of us. We love you, Brian, rest in peace.

Brian was one of the most caring people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. I remember the first weekend after he became president. While most were at home enjoying their Friday, Brian was at our house cleaning. That night he told us that no matter how much help he had, he would make sure that our Fraternity was ready to host a gathering, even if he had no help. Brian was so selfless and cared about others more than himself. We will all miss him. Brian will be loved forever.

Fraser wasn’t just a great guy and great friend but much more than that. He brightened every room he walked into and always knew how to have fun. An amazing human with an even bigger heart that could do no wrong. I didn’t know Brian till I met him during rush last fall and it seemed like he just connected with everyone so easily. I can’t even begin to describe how tragic this is and so undeserving. Such a great guy I’m lucky I got to call you a friend. Rest easy, Brian.

Brian was without a doubt one of the nicest guys that I have had the pleasure of knowing. He was one of those guys that you just never had a reason to get mad at, since he was kind and welcoming to everyone. He was very mature, responsible, and level-headed, all great qualities in a leader. It was obvious that he cared about Phi Delt and his brothers greatly, and he put lots of work into bettering the Fraternity, even with the short amount of time he had to do it. No matter what I was stressing about, talking to him always put me at ease, and helped me through what was a very chaotic time in my life. Even now I can’t imagine not seeing him around the house, in class, or at our events. He was one of our best, and none of us in Phi Delt will ever forget Brian. Rest easy brother, we miss you.

Six months ago, I made the decision that I did want to become a part of a brotherhood. I knew of Phi Delt from home and from hanging around them on campus. A friend of mine mentioned a Phi Delt named Brian Fraser, and said I would get along with him.

One day, I was heading downstairs with some friends to go on a walk, and we were waiting for the elevator to open. Surely enough, Brian was the only one inside the elevator. I asked him if he wanted to come with us, and he did. During the walk, he explained recruitment to me, when it was, where it was, and how it all worked. The energy I got from him made me even more excited to go through recruitment and meet the people in this Fraternity. After I told him this, he started coming to our dorm to hang out with me and my roommate Jacob Henige, who was also in my pledge class. Brian just wanted to get to know us as people, and I wanted to get to know him too.

I could tell he cared about his Fraternity and was trying to make it a better chapter. During my pledge semester, Brian and I started getting really close. As some time passed, he told me he wanted to start making some money, and the Union seemed like a very convenient place because it was right next to our building. He started working at the Union, and of course, I had to come and visit him while he was working. After a few weeks of him working there, Brian and I had created a routine. He would go to work, and I would come and visit him. Brian would save his break so we could eat together. After he got off work, we would play Madden. Even if he did not have a good day at work, he would still come in with a smile. I love you, Brian. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face and for being there when I needed it. You will be missed by so many and never forgotten. I’m going to miss all of the things we did together. Rest easy, Brian.

Phi Delta Theta sends its deepest condolences to the Fraser family, the Michigan Beta Chapter, and all those who loved Brian as they mourn their loss. In collaboration with his parents, Phi Delta Theta wishes to memorialize him through a Presidential Scholarship for Michigan Beta.

Funds raised in Brian’s memory will support the Brian Fraser Presidential Memorial Scholarship, which will help future Michigan Beta presidents fund their education. It is our hope at Phi Delta Theta and the hope of Brian’s parents that each Phi who receives this scholarship will embody Brian’s charismatic, contagious smile and caring, loyal energy.

In coelo quies est.

The post A Tribute to Brian Fraser, From the Brothers of Michigan Beta at Michigan State appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

Leave time to focus on yourself.

Learn as much as you can from your alumni.

Reports are important, chapter meetings are important, paperwork is important, BUT the most important thing is brotherhood. You can’t make it happen, it has to come organically from other brothers bonding and connecting. Give them that opportunity whether it’s a group dinner, lunch, pick-up sports etc., and let the magic happen! Don’t push it, but just extend the invitation with a smile!

Set goals early and keep the bar high.

“This is the way we’ve always done it” is an excuse used by single-minded people.

Have FUN!

Take time for yourself. If you can’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of the chapter.

Enjoy the little things.

Lead by example and practice what you preach.

Separate fraternity and friendship when making decisions.

Be accountable for yourself and all of your brothers. If you tell someone that you are going to do something, stay true to your word and do it.

Do not focus on those people in the chapter who may not be showing up to meetings as much as those that you know have potential. As a leader you cannot turn every person into a leader.

Always have a pulse on all the chapter functions so you won’t be blindsided by anything.

Actively prevent and speak against things that are risky. Don’t be silent.

Be strong in your communications. Make an effort to communicate effectively with your CAB.

At the end of the day, it’s just a group of college kids. Make sure to keep your cool even when you are getting frustrated.

Be aware of all GHQ, IFC, and university rules and risk management policies.

Be prepared to say no to some of the guys in the chapter and do the responsible thing instead of the fun thing. Make the hard decision instead of the easy one.

This position is going to be taxing. Know that you’re doing your best and don’t be afraid to rely on others around you (CAB and your exec). Delegation is key.

Always be communicating, especially with less involved members about what can be done better.

Be yourself. Communication is key.

Being a leader isn’t easy. Criticism and praise will be given no matter what you decide to do. It’s what you do with the feedback you receive and how you continue to improve your chapter. In the end have the best intentions no matter what and look to truly become the greatest version of yourself and strive for your chapter to do the same.

Believe in yourself. You need to be able to say no and put your foot down.

Communication is key. It is vital to stay in touch with your CAB, province president, and leadership consultant. In addition, be sure to be open and honest with your members as to what is going on with the Fraternity.

Divide key responsibilities among brothers with strong leadership early on. This promotes growth on their part and keeps any one strong leader from burning out. Have deliverable (reports, events, newsletters, meetings) due for key positions on set dates or intervals of time (weekly, by-weekly, monthly).

Do not procrastinate and follow the chapter greatness checklist.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from anyone.

Don’t do everything yourself. Find your core officers who you can trust and have them help you a lot. Also, be positive, your attitude is what makes everyone else’s attitudes.

Don’t worry about pleasing everyone. Instead, worry about improving yourself and the Fraternity like you know you should.

Don’t get bogged down with everyone’s complaints. They are adults and can deal with it themselves.

Don’t let the opinions or traditions of the chapter keep you from making the right decision.

Don’t procrastinate and make sure your VP is doing his job.

Don’t take on too much too quickly. You have an executive board that is there to help you.

You have the power to do great things as president. Don’t doubt your abilities. You were elected because people saw something in you.

Focus on yourself and show other positions how to do their jobs instead of doing it for them.

Follow the values of the Fraternity and you will never be misguided.

Follow your gut and make sure to value everyone’s opinion.

Give people the benefit of the doubt and a few chances. Be firm but fair. Follow through on commitments.

Hard work and preparation are essential for running an effective and smooth chapter meeting.  YOU and your executive board set the tone for the entire organization. Make it a positive tone of unity not division.

Don’t be afraid to make people upset. Focus on making this chapter better, not making everyone happy.

Have as many individual conversations as you can.

Lead by example. People will follow you when they see you backing up your word. And stay positive. Turn what looks like setbacks into opportunities.

Learn to be political. You could be objectively correct, but if your ideas are unwieldy, you will get nowhere.

Listen to all your members. Be willing to reach out to them to get some input on how they think the chapter is doing.

Most people in the chapter look out for themselves. You have to look for the betterment of the chapter.

Never be afraid to ask for help (even when you think no one else cares), and don’t try to do everyone else’s job.

Pay attention to your chapter and member needs.

Set a calendar and book venues before the semester even starts.

Set the tone early. Make it apparent that you are in charge but be willing to listen to others.

Lean on the most recent president for advice, and don’t get too worried if at the beginning you feel lost.

Stay motivated.

Stay on top of things early and stay organized. Once you get behind it’s hard to catch up.

Stay organized and don’t procrastinate.

Supporting the active members of your chapter should always be your first priority.

Take time to yourself and let the officer positions work for you.

The external side of the job is arguably more important than the internal. Being respected by your chapter matters a lot, but if people outside the chapter don’t respect your opinions and know who you are, your whole chapter will suffer.

Thicken your skin and have 4-5 people to turn to always.

Always remember that you are the face and should carry yourself with respect. Be completely transparent with the information you receive.

Trust your gut and remember that you serve the chapter.

Work closely with the executive board and stay on top of everything.

You have to command respect. It will be hard to yell at your closer friends, but they will respect you more in the long run.

You were elected for a reason so don’t doubt yourself.

Sometimes the right decision isn’t the most popular one.

The post Words of Wisdom from Past Chapter Presidents appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

One of the defining moments during my Phikeia experience occurred when my big brother asked me a compelling question: “What has happened in your life that has made you who you are today?” My answer wasn’t a bad breakup, a family relationship that had deteriorated, or a specific event. I wanted to share that managing two separate mental illnesses has made a profound impact on me. At the time, I felt this was not what the Fraternity or my big brother would want me to reveal. Though I don’t recall my specific answer at the moment, nothing has impacted my development as a human more than my battle with mental illness.

At the age of 22, I have learned how to handle my bouts with depression and General Anxiety Disorder as well as possible. But, for the majority of my life, I struggled to understand and cope with these feelings. By sharing my story and struggles, I am hopeful that I can help others realize that the inner demons you may battle do not define you. It is very possible to live a fulfilling and productive life.

I first started noticing signs of depression in high school, but as a teenage male, I was truly afraid to show my emotions. Art was the only forum that allowed me to share my feelings towards these issues. This, however, did not come until after something that I am still recovering from  happened. In December of 2009 at the age of 16, I tried to take my own life. I will spare the specific details, but I had hit that point. As I write this post, I still struggle to accurately describe my state of mind that evening. To start, I was your typical high school student, but I really did not feel like I fit in anywhere at my high school of 2,000 students in the upper middle class area of Fort Wayne, Indiana. My family wasn’t wealthy, I didn’t play high school sports, and I just didn’t “fit in” with the classmates I had grown up with from second grade to high school. But, I persevered.

To say the least, I had very interesting relationship with my father growing up. My mom and dad separated earlier than I can remember, and my dad lived in every state possible besides Indiana for the first ten years of my life. I would see him a handful times throughout the year before he moved back when I was 10. However, this would be short lived as my dad made a few mistakes and again began moving often for work. Until I was about 16, I tried to have a decent relationship with my dad, but at that point, too much had built, and I quit trying. The feeling was pretty reciprocal, and we didn’t talk for eight months. This angered me for a long time, but once again I persevered.

By the time I hit high school, my mom was my best friend. She still is to this day in every way, shape, and form. We have had our differences. I was never the perfect child, especially in high school, but we dealt with each other. She made continual sacrifices for me that I will never be able to repay. She worked a third shift job five days a week, so I was on my own from 8 p.m. until 4-6 a.m. each night. I felt lonely A LOT, especially while I dealt with depression and anxiety of which I had no understanding. I didn’t tell her about the my irrational thoughts, and I didn’t tell her or anybody else how much I hated being alone five nights a week. I wasn’t sleeping more than four hours a night due to the continual thoughts I was having, and I had no real forum to project myself. After four years of this though, I persevered.

I persevered through everything that culminated into the night that I hit rock bottom. This is something I often remind myself of when I have rough days. On May 25, 2010, I had a normal day at school. I arrived home and planned to spend the day playing basketball with a few of the neighborhood kids. When I arrived home, my sister’s car was unexpectedly there – It was a Tuesday, and she lived in Muncie. I will never forget the look on her face when I saw her. She was crying tears I had never seen in another person. She hugged me in a way she had never hugged me before. She had learned that day that her high school boyfriend had committed suicide. This was the moment I figured it out – Life isn’t about one person’s inner struggles, trials, and tribulations. We live for every single person who has ever made even the slightest impact on us. Life is for the family you share at home, your parents, your friends, your fraternity brothers and for whomever you have shared life. Your life matters whether you see it or not. You mean something to someone. I made a promise to my sister that day that I can happily say I have now upheld for six years.

Phi Delta Theta has and continues to play a vital role in helping me persevere. On July 27, 2014, my Uncle Terry passed away after a 20+ year battle with HIV/AIDS. I was in my first summer as an initiated member of Phi Delta Theta at the University of Southern Indiana (Indiana Lambda), and I had been selected to be one of our representatives at the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute. I did not attend due to my uncle’s funeral. My truck, as my chapter brothers know, is a glorious piece of machinery that chooses to work when it wants. It decided to call in sick that week. Instead of allowing me to miss my uncle’s funeral, my chapter brother, Russ, decided to drop everything, made the five hour drive to Fort Wayne to help me, and returned home at 6 a.m. the next morning to make his summer class. That is Brotherhood! I was the last person to speak at my uncle’s funeral, and it helped me find a bit of inner peace and solace with his death. We are drawn to the negative moments when we lose someone permanently. It’s human nature, but we have to learn to accept the bad and cherish the great moments. The moments of grief, depression, and anger associated with losing my uncle rocked my world and sent me on an emotional downturn, but I have persevered.

In October 2015, I had a complete breakdown. Anxiety was at an all-time high. I hadn’t been to class that week, and it was Wednesday. I called my sister with plans to transfer to Indy. I had no desire to be in Evansville. For the majority of the semester, one of my three little brothers and a pledge brother basically dragged me out of bed every morning to attend class. On the day of my breakdown, I went to my Greek Advisor, told her about how I felt, and cried in her office for about twenty minutes. We talked, she gave me the time to vent, and then she escorted me to the Campus Counseling Center to schedule an appointment. I hated the initial thought of counseling. I knew I had problems, but I couldn’t imagine counseling was going to help. Regardless, I took a chance and began to see a counselor, and I continue to do so today. This was the first real step I had ever taken to deal with my problems. It helped me realize what I was fighting against, and I learned to treat it differently than I had before. Since, I have been succeeding slowly but surely in life. I was elected IFC President and maintained my Alumni Secretary role in the chapter. As Phikeia Educator, I led the largest initiate class that the chapter has had in the past decade, and I figured out what I wanted to do with my life. I plan to be a Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life someday, and I owe that to my advisor and friend, Trish. I even turned my semester around and made the Dean’s List for the first time.

One of the biggest lessons I have learned through all of this is to stop hating the fact that I have depression and General Anxiety Disorder. I started to embrace that part of my life, and I have made it a big part of who I am. My only goal with this post is to show any individual who may be struggling with the same things that it is possible to achieve more than you think and that your life truly matters. Do not be afraid to seek help. Talk to your chapter brothers. Find a forum where you can project how you feel. Do not hate this part of you. Love every part of who you are. If you think you need professional help, get it. If you think you need medication, talk to a professional to see what they think. You are only so strong on your own, but as Phi Delts, we are never alone. I am proud to be a Phi, a fraternal man, and a twenty something male battling mental illness.

I’m going to leave you with something that has helped me deal with my mental health. It is as simple as a semicolon. A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you, and the sentence is your life. Be a semicolon. Keep living, keep fighting, and love every moment of your life.

The post To Persevere and Excel – Managing Mental Illness as a Student appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

Each year, when Ohio Epsilon at the University of Akron begins the process of selecting members to represent the chapter at the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute, we remember a great quote from our Province President, Jim Warner.

“You shouldn’t send ducks to eagle school.”

It is a quote that has resonated greatly within Ohio Epsilon, and the chapter has benefited from following this advice and sending as many “eagles” as possible to Kleberg each summer.

The three pillars of the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute are purpose, networking and leadership. These values are extremely important because they coincide with the three Cardinal Principles that we abide by as men of Phi Delta Theta. The men that spend valuable time in Oxford, Ohio during Kleberg refine their skills in these three categories, and they always return with a greater understanding of each one.

Sending a large number of men to Kleberg year-after-year has greatly impacted our chapter. Over the past three years, Ohio Epsilon has sent a total of 34 delegates to the conference. We sent 15 men in 2014 with one being a Peer Mentor and another being our first Whole Man Scholar. We were able to show our support of the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute and grow the capacity for leadership within Ohio Epsilon at the same time.

The most notable benefits that the chapter has gained are positive attitudes, heightened leadership skills and a greater drive from those who have attended Kleberg. By developing a greater purpose to live our ritual, connect with members of GHQ and other chapters, and attend sessions to refine leadership skills, our members begin to step into leadership roles even before they leave Miami University.

Upon returning to campus, it’s guaranteed that those who attended will begin to work harder, take on more responsibility and apply the knowledge gained at Kleberg to benefit the chapter. Any leadership book can be read and applied, however, what happens to a Phi while he is at the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute lights a fire that burns his Phi Delt passion brighter than ever. The building of this Phi pride and the desire to lead, coupled with a greater understanding of the purpose of Phi Delta Theta is easily the most important factor that has led to Ohio Epsilon’s success.

The proof is concrete. More than 70% of our current executive board members attended Kleberg at one point in their undergraduate career. Our past four presidents attended the conference. Three of those four have returned as Peer Mentors.

This summer, we hope to send two peer mentors, three Whole Man Scholars, and 15 undergraduates, for a total of 20 Ohio Epsilon men in attendance.

The experience a man gains in four days at the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute is invaluable. It is the gift that keeps on giving, generation after generation. Our chapter has more than doubled in size, been recognized for numerous awards on campus, been named the most outstanding fraternity at the University of Akron’s for three years in a row, and was recently the runner-up for Phi Delta Theta’s Harvard Trophy. This success directly correlates with Ohio Epsilon’s focus on sending more men to Kleberg.

Registration is now open for the 2015 Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute through myPDT. Per the 2015 Chapter Minimum Standards and Expectations policy, all chapters must have at least three (3) delegates in attendance. This can be a mix of Kleberg delegate track and Phikeia Education training track participants, but does not include brothers named as Peer Mentors or those who receive Whole Man Scholarships to attend the Honors College of Leadership. If a chapter registers three members for the delegate track and one for the Phikeia Education training track, all register for free. Additional delegates may pay the $350 registration fee to attend. All delegates are responsible for their travel costs.

The post Want To Greatly Improve Your Chapter? Send More Men To The Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

My time at Phi Delta Theta has been a rewarding and unparalleled experience. Through my three years as a Refounding Father of a chapter, I’ve traveled all across North America with my brothers, from Toronto to California, and I’ve seen my chapter quadruple in size. I’ve also helped create an indestructible brotherhood on my campus, a campus that is institutionally hostile towards any Greek organization. It is through the battle of this hostility that I found and honed a trait so imbedded in the core of Phi Delta Theta and its members that it is often forgotten from mention, but vital to this brotherhood. That trait is perseverance.

I first learned of the concept of perseverance while I was in high school at a church youth-group. While I don’t remember much, or agree with much of the preaching the youth pastor did, I do remember the concept of perseverance, a concept that time and time again has helped me through life. Perseverance is the steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

All chapters and all individuals in Phi Delta Theta will have to persevere at one point or another. Phi Delta Theta has been around for over 160 years, and has persevered through wars, fallacious stereotypes, and other various tragedies. Individual chapters have faced a variety of problems through time, but through perseverance beat the odds. I believe that perseverance, while being a trait imbedded in Phi Delta Theta, needs to be a trait that is brought to light and pursued with vigor.

Whether in fraternity matters, or personal life, perseverance is one of the most beneficial traits a man can hold, and through perseverance we help exemplify the three cardinal principles of this Fraternity. Friendship, sound learning, and moral rectitude all require perseverance in their pursuit and attainment. Perseverance through the boom and bust cycles of chapters, as well as the boom and bust of life itself, plays a vital role in differentiating our organization and our individuals from others. If I have one wish for the aggregate of this Fraternity, it is that they realize that they hold a trait as a man of Phi Delta Theta that makes them indestructible if they truly cherish it.

I graduate this summer, and eagerly look forward to my future as an alumnus of Phi Delta Theta. I know as I leave the cocoon of undergraduate life with my Economics degree, I will face inevitable obstacles and difficult circumstances. That being said, I also know that as a man of Phi Delta Theta, I am capable of persevering through life’s challenges until death itself, as my brothers have done before me. The strength of my brotherhood and the influence of The Bond, paired with the perseverance that flows through every man of Phi Delta Theta shall keep me on the righteous path of glory.

Brad Markis is a graduating Economics & Psychology student at York University in Toronto. He is one of the Refounding Fathers and former Vice-President of his chapter, Ontario Delta.

The post A Core Unwritten Philosophy in Phi Delta Theta: Perseverance appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

During my last semester as an undergraduate, I overheard a classmate talking about the new fraternity he and some friends were helping to get started. After talking to him about it after class, I decided to check it out. In our student center were a couple of well-dressed young men standing behind a table covered with a blue Phi Delta Theta cloth, flanked by banners of Lou Gehrig on one side, and Neil Armstrong on the other. As I spoke with the expansion consultants and looked at the materials, my mind kept returning to the tagline “Become the Greatest Version of Yourself.”

When I transferred to Syracuse University in the Spring of 2010, I told myself that I wasn’t going to waste time with extracurriculars, that I was in college for an education and a degree. I didn’t want to pursue anything that was going to hinder my academic performance, and yet, here I was three semesters removed from swearing off extracurriculars, considering a fraternity. From everything I had been told by the consultants and read in the materials, Phi Delta Theta was not just any fraternity, it was a fraternity that wants to help its members achieve excellence in all aspects of life.

What I found locally at New York Epsilon, as well as throughout the fraternity at the Presidents Leadership Conference, General Convention and Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute is a group of young men committed to bettering themselves, their campuses and their communities. I am continuously inspired and challenged to do more and be even better by men I call Brothers in the Bond. During rush last semester I likened my chapter to an incubator of highly motivated people pushing each other to be even more successful, pushing each other to become the greatest version of themselves.

The beautiful thing about our fraternity’s tagline, is the individual nature of it. People often associate conformity and suppression of individuality with Greek organizations, and yet here emblazoned on nearly everything Phi Delta Theta publishes is a tagline urging its membership to develop their own unique, and individual talents. Diversity of individuals and their talents is what has made the United States of America the strong nation that it is today, what made my chapter, New York Epsilon at Syracuse University, the strong chapter that it is, and is also what has made Phi Delta Theta such a strong fraternity.

Becoming the Greatest Version of Yourself requires a certain amount of self-knowledge. What I mean by self-knowledge is knowing what makes you, you. It means knowing your strengths, weaknesses, values and goals. It means knowing the things that will drive you, as well as those that will hold you back. Taking time to develop this self-knowledge through reflection will help you to recognize yourself at present, as well as that greatest version you’d like to become.

Personally, becoming the greatest version of myself meant stepping up to the challenge of being a graduate student, student teacher, and chapter president. These different hats and responsibilities each required vast amounts of time and effort, and yet I still had only 24 hours in a day. I had to learn to manage my time better, to delegate tasks and responsibilities that could be delegated, schedule time for myself and others so as to maintain the personal relationships with friends and family that mean so much to me. By taking the time and figuring out what I value, when time constraints required I give things up, I was able to sacrifice those things that meant the least to me, and focus my time and energy on those that meant the most.

In striving to Become the Greatest Version of Myself, I will never focus on becoming the most amazing basketball player, (my chapter brothers can attest I’m not even close), but rather, I will focus on being the best teacher, mentor, brother, uncle, friend, etc. that I can. The greatest version of myself is inspired by great men and women of the past, teachers I looked up to in school, Brothers in the Bond, my family, and all who help me to strive each day to be even better,  and do even more to be of service to the world.

Dwight Stevenson is a recent graduate of Syracuse University, as well as a Re-Founding Father and former president of the New York Epsilon Chapter.

The post What Does It Mean To “Become the Greatest Version of Yourself”? appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

Going into my senior year of high school, I knew that I wanted to go out and explore a different part of Texas to get my college degree; I just did not know where. My girlfriend and I visited Baylor and walked around many other booths at our high school college fair. With so many different things going through my head, I did not know where to begin.

Neither my brother nor my sister went to college and my parents dropped out of high school. I knew a long road was ahead of me. Having said that, I was determined to overcome the challenges and be proud of something that I worked for myself. I applied to a couple of different colleges and accepted the offer to a small private university called Schreiner in the Texas Hill Country. Little did I know that the person who gave me my first campus tour was a brother of Phi Delta Theta. He was also my Peer Advisor, a person who is assigned to you in a group as a freshman. I went to Van for many questions on topics such as registering for classes and financial aid. He also became a friend as I was away from my real brother for the first time.

Difficulties arose in the middle of the semester when I found it hard to adjust and adapt to the college life of combining studying, working and free time. I found myself attending the free tutoring sessions for math to hopefully improve my grades, which would also help me accomplish my goal of graduating college and getting a diploma. Once again, I was clueless that my math tutor was also a Phi Delt, Matthew.  The few times that I did get out and attend campus events, Phi Delta Theta was known and made a presence. I could not read Greek letters at the time, so the name was my only way to associate with the organization.

I did not known what a fraternity was. I attended an informational session where all of the pieces came together – Van and Matthew were members of this group. Not only did this catch my attention but so did the philanthropic organization that they served. It touched me personally. Back in 2001, my grandmother passed away from ALS. Before this, I had not been involved much with fundraising or walking with ALS. I thought it was an ultimate win-win situation for me, trying something new which I love to do, hanging around a great group of guys that helped me without me even knowing what they were apart of and trying to find a cure for ALS.

I joined Phi Delta Theta in the Spring of 2009. Taking on the Community Service Chairman position for my pledge class was an honor. Unfortunately, I got the chapter in some trouble with the school for trying to get donations from an unapproved source. The great thing is the active brothers at the time saw my drive and I did a presentation which helped me learn from my mistakes. After that, I went above and beyond to show the chapter what I am capable of. I even got in touch with a Famous Phi John Tyson to interview him.

Shortly after, I was a Brother of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. There was a misunderstanding between my family and me about Greek life. I could not ask my parents’ or siblings’ opinions about joining such a group, because they did not have any experience with college activities. For example, when my brother was asking about school, he called the Fraternity a tribe.

The next semester, I was elected Community Service Chairman for the chapter. This was a highlight for me. After seven years of being an active Greek organization on campus, I led the chapter to our first Walk to Defeat ALS in San Antonio, Texas. It did not stop there. I organized multiple fundraising events on and off campus to help spread the word about ALS and get Texas Sigma on the map. In the end, our chapter won the inaugural Gehrig Gang Challenge which was between all the Phi Delta Theta chapters in Texas.

Going into my college career, I thought that I was in this by myself. College was something new for me, and it was a true experience that may not have happened without joining Phi Delta Theta. Looking back now, my brothers carried me through this tough time. The leadership experience that I gained from the chapter is amazing. It is great to know that I was a part of a milestone within our chapter. You may be surprised about what can be accomplished when only a handful of brothers come together. “Become the greatest version of yourself” was exactly what I did.

What makes me smile is that I did not do this as a “resume building activity”; I did this because I enjoyed it. Since the Spring of 2009, I am still shocked about the achievements in my life.  Many have happened primarily because of Phi Delta Theta, and I haven’t even graduated yet which was my first goal. Proud to be a Phi!

Stephen Mendoza was born and raised in Houston, Texas.  He started his college career at Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas where he pledged Phi Delta Theta. After two years, Stephen decided to transfer to The University of Texas at Austin to continue his education. He is currently working on his Bachelor’s degree in Advertising with a Business Foundations Certificate. Stephen works for H-E-B, where he is a Management Intern. 

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Prior to college, I had been a student leader for the Bellevue Youth Council – an organization that empowers the youth of Bellevue, WA and its surrounding areas to vocalize community concerns and act. This organization has offered me the opportunities to inspire changes and create a legacy in my local community. As I left this organization for college, I did not fully realize its impact on my life and how I would crave for an organization that I could similarly “inspire changes and create a legacy.” That is where the Fraternity comes into the lens.

As a first generation college student, it is hard to find your niche. Heck, it is hard to find your niche as any occupation. But coming to Willamette and joining the brotherhood of Phi Delta Theta’s Oregon Gamma Chapter was the best choice I could have made. As a second generation Asian-American and first-generation college student, it is easy to become lost in the sea of higher education because my parents cannot offer support in the confusion of the infrastructure of college. The transition was not as tough as some suggest: Instead of being swept by uncertainty, the morals of Phi Delta Theta became a pillar and foundation for me.

When trying out many of the different clubs and organizations throughout the first semester, I realized that these organizations did not have the same organizational structure that I sought, except for fraternities.  Because my chapter was smaller in size, I saw how each member contributed through their respective leadership positions to propel the fraternity forward. Everyone mattered. It was a group mentality. That was what I really enjoyed about the Phi Delts, so I signed the board to pledge that very weekend during rush week.

At the beginning of my sophomore year, I was interested in becoming involved with the college admission process. During a dinner with staff and faculty at a freshmen orientation camp that I was a leader of, I posed the question to an admission officer in attendance and was presented with a music internship opportunity a week later via email. I was asked to build and rework the music internship in progress as it fit my needs and the current needs of the Music Department. During this process, I learned that I enjoyed creating – a trait that I exploited. While stemming from my entrepreneurial parents, I owned this trait of creation through marketing. Even as a young boy, I recall shamelessly selling candy to my mom’s clients.

In addition, I learned a lot about myself and my interests through this process. At the time, I had my doubts about studying music, specifically which career path I wanted to take. Moreover, I was not ready to commit myself to such a focused major. I wanted to utilize my extracurricular activities as my classroom. Therefore, it was beneficial to have taken some higher level courses early on in addition to finding some field work. A couple years later, I realized that the things about this internship are the things I would want out of a career – organizing students, helping students find their passion, answering questions about a topic I have extensive knowledge in, providing new ideas for marketing and outreach, and traveling. Of course, this is only one option of many to pursue but thus far it seems to provide the most “bang for my buck.”

The supportive atmosphere here at Willamette by the faculty and staff encouraged me to explore and stay involved. I work two jobs, sing in three vocal ensembles (Chamber Choir, Willamette Singers, and Tandem) and am the President of the Phi Delt chapter. I am taking these opportunities to lead and learn through real-world experience and applications. That is where I truly thrive academically.

I’ve learned fast that initiative matters. As they say, “The early bird gets the worm.” It is how it works in the real world as well. Within the fraternity, people want to see folks that rise above the norm. People that do not wait on the sideline until all becomes chaotic before acting. People want a leader; someone to take initiative. Professors want students to visit during office hours. Bosses want workers to create a workflow that boosts productivity. Organizations want leaders to provide direction. Owning your enthusiasm is key in many facets of life especially in leadership roles.

In conclusion, as a first generation student, I realize that college offers many different resources for you: academics, a social life, networking opportunities, independence, etc. What I have found in Phi Delta Theta in regards to this, though, is that I am able to share these experiences with other brothers, specifically first generation brothers. We strive to live and exemplify the three cardinal principles with grace. I hope my personal experiences in college provide an interesting roadmap and help others to see how fraternities (specifically Phi Delta Theta) help us “become the greatest versions of ourselves.

Benny Kuo is a junior at Willamette University studying Music with an emphasis in Vocal Performance and Music Administration. He currently serves as the Chapter President; previously as Treasurer, Alumni Secretary, Chorister, and Webmaster. He works as a student technician at Willamette Integrated Technology Services (WITS), the University’s IT department. In addition, he works for the Admission Office handling music student inquiries and creating advertising materials for the Music Department. In his spare time (if any), he plays video games, watches movies and television shows with friends, and refurbishes computers to sell on Craigslist. He hopes to share the benefits of music performance by utilizing your passions in an untapped manner.

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Over the last few years, I have grown and developed into the man I am today. This is in large part due to my experiences and the people with Phi Delta Theta.

I pledged myself to Phi Delta Theta in the Fall of 2009 with nine guys who I did not know until the process started. These guys are some of my closest and most genuine friends today. Coming to Robert Morris in 2009, I knew one person, so it was imperative that I meet new people and get involved on campus. Playing baseball proved to be the answer that I was looking for in both respects. I was introduced to the Phi Delts via people on the baseball team telling me about an event that they were putting on that weekend and saying that I should come visit. The rest is history. I went to the event and have not been able to leave yet.

As a first generation college student, I had no idea what college life would be about or what I would do when I was at school. I was away from home and the comfort of my parents for the first time in my life, and I had absolute no clue what would come next.

My parents did the best they could for me, and I would not be who I am if it were not for them. When I first told them that I would be looking into joining a fraternity, they had no idea what it or the people they would soon meet was about. After explaining to them that it was not a FRAT, rather a fraternity, and it was more than what they saw in movies, they knew it was something that could be a great thing for me to experience while in college.

We were initiated in 2009 on my birthday, December 5th. Being initiated on my birthday is one of the coolest experiences that I have ever had, and it keeps me from not forgetting such an important date.

Over the last few years my parents have grown to embrace me being a part of such an amazing organization. They actively come to our events and formals, sharing embarrassing stories of me growing up and enjoying the people that I call my friends.

This past year was a roller coaster of a year. I experienced happiness, sadness, numbness and every feeling on the spectrum. One of my role models and a close friend of mine in the chapter, Mike Haines, was tragically shot and killed in an armored truck heist. Experiencing that would eventually prepare me for what was to come. We, as brothers, banded together to remain strong and kept on going as we honored a guy whom we all knew and loved.

Over the summer, after returning from Convention, my parents and I learned that my dad had the C word – Cancer. In no way, shape, or form is cancer a good thing, especially when it is a close family member, let alone your dad. Seeing my dad go through the pain and anguish that he did while battling cancer and the procedures that were done will always stick with me. As the only child, I put it on my shoulders to be the strong one in the family and be there for both of my parents as we went along on this new journey.

Being the family’s rock is no small task for a 21 year old college student with no clue about what his future holds. If I’ve learned anything as a Phi Delt, it’s the little things that add up and somebody’s gotta do it. Also, in my corner were 120 people who had my back and were there for me whenever I needed something. I was actually with an alumnus working on promoting a tribute concert for Mike Haines when I got the word my dad had stage 4 cancer.

In September, my father lost his battle with cancer at the young age of 51. Obviously, dealing with a parent’s death is no easy thing, especially at 21 years old. Having to tell family members, friends, and other people my father died is arguably the hardest thing I have ever done. As the days went by and arrangements were being made, there was not a day that went by where I did not get a phone call or text from a brother asking if he could help with anything or if I needed anything. For my dad’s remembrance ceremony, five of them made the two-hour drive from Pittsburgh to be there for me as we remembered my dad.

People say that with joining a fraternity that you are only buying your friends. You get a lot from joining a fraternity and yes, money is involved. But there is no price you can put on the bond and the closeness that you develop with your brothers. When I was initiated, all I heard was how this is “a brotherhood for life.” It took me three years to realize what the saying “a brotherhood for life” actually meant. It means more than what you get when you pay your dues; it means having somebody you trust and care about being there for you whenever you need it no matter what; It means that there will be somebody going along for the ride with you all along the way.

And most of all, it means having your closest friends and brothers being there when you need them the most, for the rest of your life.

Proud to be a Phi!

Jarrod Prugar is a senior sports management major and education minor at Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA. Over the last three and a half years, he has served as Recruitment Chairman and Phikeia Educator. In 2010,  Jarrod was elected as the delegate for Phi Delta Theta’s General Convention in Orlando, and he is in the process of completing his Iron Phi requirements after running the 5K at this year’s Convention. Jarrod is currently the head squash coach and head middle school baseball coach at Sewickley Academy as well as team captain and president of the Robert Morris Club Baseball team.

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As the chapter president of the Alberta Alpha Chapter at the University of Alberta, I understand the significance of alumni in sustaining the functionality of the Fraternity. A supportive Chapter Advisory Board is the difference between a good chapter and a strong chapter. Chris Uglanica is a true Phi Delt. Chris has helped our chapter through struggling times. Today, we at Alberta Alpha are proud of our progress, and we would like to thank Chris for his hard work and dedication to our chapter. By going beyond what is expected from our alumni, Chris regularly attends meetings and shares news from our CAB. In addition, he ensures we are in the right track to a better chapter. Helping with rush, taking composite photographs, and giving advice are only a small handful of tasks Chris has graciously offered us.

Chris is a fantastic brother. He will never shy away from giving advice or offering a helping hand. In addition, Chris will always be ready to lighten your day with an amusing story or a quirky joke. I can honestly say that Chris has greatly enriched my experience as a Phi Delt, and he is a primary reason of why Alberta Alpha has improved significantly over recent years.

Sean MacGregor was initiated into Alberta Alpha in January 2010. He is majoring in elementary education and hopes of getting a job as a teacher. He has held chapter offices, such as: fundraiser, recruitment chairman, vice president, risk management, and currently is serving as president of Alberta Alpha.

The post A Supportive CAB is the Difference Between a Good and a Strong Chapter appeared first on Phi Delta Theta.

I am Jack Sieke, the President of Phi Delta Theta’s Ohio Iota Chapter at Denison University.  I am a junior from Alexandria, Virginia and am writing today to talk about our Chapter Adviser, Chuck Gorman, Denison ’73.

Chuck started working as our alumni adviser around a year ago, and in that year, we have seen incredible improvement in our chapter, largely due to his influence.  Chuck was in Phi Delta Theta at Denison and his experience in the chapter during his undergraduate days led him back to us to step in and advise.  Chuck has taken his job with us very seriously. He has become very involved and always challenges us to push ourselves to the next level and remove complacency.  He has been extremely helpful to me as president to keep me accountable for everything and to make sure that I have all the help that I need in order to lead our chapter.

Many of our brothers play on the different sports teams on campus and Chuck does his best to follow our brothers and to congratulate them on big wins and personal victories as well.  Chuck and I sat next to each other this past Wednesday and watched our lacrosse team, led by two senior brothers, win their first round game of the NCAA national championship.  Coming to this game on a Wednesday afternoon to me shows Chuck’s dedication to our chapter.  He is always willing to drop anything to help out and advise our chapter.  Chuck really exemplifies the concept of brotherhood as he takes time out of his life to help us to become a better chapter and helps us to become the best that we can be.

Chuck and I talk a few times a week to just check in and while our conversations generally focus around the Fraternity, Chuck also works to make sure I am getting my schoolwork done and takes a genuine interest in what is going on in my life outside of the Fraternity.  Having him as a safety net and someone who is able to guide me in decisions that I make has been very helpful in my transition to being president.  He is always in my corner and helps me work through tough decisions that I have had to make, but he also helps me to see the other side of the decisions so that I truly can make the best decision for our chapter.

Thanks to Chuck, we have become closer as a chapter and have become a better version of ourselves.  I look forward to seeing where we can move as a chapter in the years to come with his advising.

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When I left the army to go to college I thought that my days of molding future leaders was over. Sure, I thought that while I was in college I would join some kind of organization, take the reins, and put my leadership skills to use to drive it to success, but I never thought I’d join a fraternity, and much less, have the opportunity to mold the future leaders of an organization after helping to lay the foundation.

Phi Delta Theta gave me the opportunity to be a (re)founding father of the California Epsilon Chapter at UC Davis. The expansion team from GHQ selected me to be the president of the interest group, tasked with the goal of becoming a colony and eventually a full-fledged chapter. For those of you who have been founding fathers you know these tasks are a lot harder than it seems on paper. Equipped with a myriad of manuals and the sage advice from GHQ, California Epsilon went on its journey to accomplish the tasks at hand. Not having any history to be able to draw from, we learned a lot of our lessons the hard way–through failure. From the onset we suffered from lackluster attendance at recruitment events, member attrition, and eventually low morale among the membership that did stay.

This was a testing time for me. I felt like a failed leader when I encountered this series of failures in our infancy. I had been used to success, whether I was leading and teaching soldiers in the art of modern warfare or I was leading the country’s largest student-run event. One night I was watching television and I saw an old interview of Bruce Lee and he said “If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup.” That’s when it hit me; instead of trying to fit California Epsilon into a mold, why not mold California Epsilon into something.  With this in mind, I changed my approach. Sure it gave heartache to a certain Director of Expansion (I love you DeMarkco), but with the big picture in mind, we did what worked for us locally. We were still able to more or less make all parties happy and flourished into one of the largest fraternities on the UC Davis campus.

Eventually, we achieved the goal of getting our charter back which also coincided with me stepping down as president. This was bittersweet for me. On one hand, I had my fill of being the lightning rod for the organization, but on the other, I sought to have a continued influence in the chapter so I nominated myself to be the Phikeia Educator and got elected to the position. This position has allowed me to play a paramount role in the Fraternity–in its future. I not only get to teach new members about the history of Phi Delta Theta and the Greek community, I also get to shape their work ethic and their conceptual skills, both which are the ultimate drivers in what will lead the Fraternity in the future.

Charlie is a senior majoring in managerial economics with a concentration in agricultural economics. He is originally from Hollywood, California.

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Phi Delta Theta has changed my life in many great ways.  I joined this great organization the spring of my sophomore year, a semester late, but it was a decision that I will never regret.

When I first came to Widener University, I was not interested in Greek life at all. I saw it as being the stereotypical animal house, all night partying, hazing, and alcohol.  I saw Greek life as something I did not need in my college experience.  I soon realized that Phi Delta Theta was the organization that created my college experience.  I quickly realized that Phi Delta Theta was the opposite of the typical stereotype.  After I started my Phikeia education period, I saw that Phi Delta Theta was about making boys into men, men into better men, truly preaching becoming the greatest version of myself.

I became a brother and quickly took a leadership role in Phi Delta Theta.  Within my first semester of brotherhood, I took a leadership role as Phikeia Educator, which I spent two full year terms holding.  In my time as a brother, I held the position of Phikeia Educator, which I took very seriously and  greatly  improved the Phikeia Education program for my chapter.  In addition to being Phikeia Educator, I held the positions of Social Chair, Special Events Chair and Fundraising Chair.  All of these positions that I have held have made me a better man ready to face the world.

The leadership that was presented to me at Phi Delta Theta has made me a better man.  I have gained more confidence and perseverance both as a brother and as a man outside the Fraternity.  Phi Delta Theta has truly changed me as a student and more importantly a man.  I gained a group of brothers that I would not be the same without.  Phi Delta Theta is what kept me at Widener and made me a success in my career today and in the future.

As a graduating senior I will miss the time and work I have put into Phi Delta Theta and wish I could spend more time with my brothers.  In the long-run, the time and work I have put into my chapter has benefited me as a person and I cannot thank the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity for everything they have done.

Jason Schwemer is a Senior Hospitality Management student at Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania.  In his time at Widener, he has been very involved as a member of the Greek system and the University as a whole.  Jason has been a member of Phi Delta Theta as well as being a dedicated CREW (Community Responsible for Enhancing Widener) Leader, which assists new students getting acclimated to Widener.  He has also been very involved in the Hospitality program.  Jason has held the President position of the PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) student chapter.  He has also been on the Executive board of NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) and founded the student chapter of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, where he served as a two-term president.  Upon graduation, Jason hopes to obtain a position in a hotel management position in the Philadelphia area, contribute to his chapter of Phi Delta Theta and ultimately give back to the Fraternity on an international level.

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As I sit here, less than a month away from graduating with honors from the University of Pittsburgh, I look back and reflect on all of the amazing moments and memories that have defined my college experience.  I can look back on the last four years and truly be proud of all that I have been able to accomplish, and of the man I have become.  Phi Delta Theta has pushed me to realize my full potential to lead, learn, and to challenge others to do the same.

I was lucky enough to be inducted as a Phikeia while the Re-Founding Fathers of the Pennsylvania Iota Chapter of Phi Delta Theta were seniors, as I am now.  These men were not only well-respected, but they were also smart and ambitious.  They taught me what it meant to belong to a values-based organization and how important it was to live the principles of friendship, sound learning, and moral rectitude each and every day.

I learned that the most effective way to lead was by example and that in order to set a good example, I needed to work just as hard as I played.  I pushed myself scholastically, taking on a heavy workload that included double majoring in Political Science and History with a minor in Theatre Arts.  I was able to complete all of this, maintaining a GPA of over 3.5.   While maintaining high academic standards, I also held the positions of Phikeia Educator for the 2010 calendar-year and Chapter President for the 2011 calendar-year. During these two years, our chapter grew to the largest on campus, with over 100 men, while maintaining a Chapter GPA in the top two of fraternities at the University of Pittsburgh.  My mission was to set the same example for the chapter that was set for me by the Re-Founding Fathers.  I wanted to teach these young men that being a Phi Delt meant being both the best person and best brother you could possibly be.

While I sit here and look back at the good times and the rough times, the laughs and the tears, the countless all-nighters in the library, and of course the fun times with brothers, I begin to realize more and more that this brotherhood lasts forever.  The relationships I have forged and the chapter I have helped shape will only continue to grow stronger and better.   I owe everything that I have to Phi Delta Theta, and I can only hope that I have honored the last line of the Phikeia Oath and that those that follow after can enjoy all of the opportunities and experiences that I have and much more.  This is truly the greatest organization in the world, and I will be forever Proud To Be A Phi.

Vincent Iannece is a 21-year-old senior at the University of Pittsburgh and former President of the Pennsylvania Iota Chapter of Phi Delta Theta.   He will be graduating with honors and will be receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History.  Vinny is  from Bayside, Queens in New York City where he lived with his loving parents (Jerry and Lynn Iannece; both attorneys) and his sister (Elena; soon-to-be freshman at the University of Maryland).  He played both football and baseball at St. Francis Preparatory High School in Queens and continues to be very athletically involved.  Next Fall Vinny will be attending St. Johns University Law School with a $40,000 per year scholarship.  

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When thinking about my Phi Delt experience throughout the past four years, a lot comes to mind.  I was able to experience something that not too many Phi Delt men do: colonization.  When I entered rush my freshman year, joining a fraternity was a possibility, but it was not necessarily a reality.  I was not sure if I wanted to join the  Greek community at Monmouth, a community that included the founding of Kappa Kappa Gamma and Pi Beta Phi. I already knew a couple people who had joined an interest group of Phi Delta Theta when I was a senior in high school and they were hoping to turn that interest group into a full-fledged, colonized, Phi Delta Theta Chapter.

About halfway into rush, I knew that I wanted to join this Phi Delta Theta interest group, because it was something that I could make my own.  All of the guys that I had met were already a part of it and were quality guys. The thing that really sealed the deal for me were the three cardinal principles: Friendship, Sound Learning, and Moral Rectitude.  The three cardinal principles really stood out to me, and they were all qualities that I felt like I should strive to improve on in college, especially if I wanted to mature and become a better person. I rushed Phi Delta Theta, and fortunately enough, was given a bid.

In my short four years of being a member of the Illinois Gamma Chapter of Phi Delta Theta, I have been the House Manager my sophomore year and Secretary for the final two years.  With these positions, and serving on the executive board, I believe that I have grown up from the responsibilities that were given to me.  I have often treated Phi Delta Theta as a business.  I feel this approach has prepared me for life after college.  When I was a freshman, I had no direction and was content with sitting aside while life passed me by. Phi Delta Theta has given me confidence in my abilities over the years and has encouraged me to strive for excellence, while continuously working to be the best person I can be.  Additionally, I now enjoy both the little and the big things in my life, and I make it a point not to take anything for granted.

I have matured over the years and I believe that Phi Delta Theta has given me the skill set to be able to succeed in any environment that I may be put into.  I have made friendships that will last for a lifetime, and I have memories that will remain with me for the rest of my life.  I have grown up and learned many intangibles that I never would have gained had I not joined Phi Delta Theta.  Most importantly, I have gone from being a boy to a man, and I will always strive to transmit the Fraternity to those who may follow after, not only not less, but greater than it was transmitted to me.

Brett Sutter is a senior at Monmouth College majoring in Anthropology and Sociology.  In his time at Monmouth College, Brett has served on the executive board for Illinois Gamma as House Manager and Secretary. He was recently voted as Illinois Gamma’s representative for Monmouth College 2012 Greek Man of the Year.  Brett also served as a tutor for the Anthropology and Sociology department and was a Scot Ambassador (student who works closely with Monmouth College Admissions).

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Getting ready to leave Central America after a week of service with the Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values (AFLV), I felt accomplished, yet saddened to see all my new friends go back to their own homes and communities. Fellow participants that I had only known for the past week or so, felt like they were closer to me than some of the friends that I had back at home. Some of the people I met in El Salvador were so authentic and enlightening, that I could feel nothing but satisfaction to know that because of the work of a handful of Greek students, we forever made a difference in their life.

Going on an immersion trip allows you to see another culture in its entirety and compare it to the culture of your own. For a quick example: as a person from the United States, I often called myself an American, and was shocked when a woman from El Salvador also said, “Soy Americana, tambien” translating to, “I’m American, too.” While something we do not think about, the term American can describe anybody from North America, Central America to South America. While this is a small vernacular difference, it made a difference when I told the woman that we were both Americans and acknowledged the flaw in what I had said.

We all have customs that we are comfortable with and deviating from those customs if often difficult or awkward for us. Most of us have friends and family that we are comfortable, and going on an immersion trip truly questions all aspects of our life. After participating in this trip, I can confidently say that I can more easily question the status quo. It helped me think about how I talked with my peers and how I was speaking with people I did not even know. I recognized and learned about the culture I was visiting as well as my own culture. I felt comfortable and encouraged to be myself in a group of peers whether I was being the chirpy morning person, contemplating and reflecting about my day or if I was sick after accidently drinking the water.

Through the amazing and positive times in Central America, I worked with my peers to make a difference in the lives of many. The close-knit feeling of our volunteer community came quicker than anybody could have expected. I shared some of the most personal aspects of my life with the group that I would typically never share with people after four days of knowing them. The connectedness has continued since the end of the trip, as I have been able to call many of the fellow participants to ask them with help in making decisions through my life and they have been able to do the same for me. After the trip, I found myself in an extended layover in Chicago, and asked a fellow participant if she had a place for me to stay and she opened her doors to me without reservation.

Going on an immersion trip was one of the most eye-opening and amazing experiences I could have asked for. It has allowed me to be a better member of my family, brother in my fraternity, friend and student. It has given me comfort to know that there are individuals spread across the United States that I know I could call for help without hesitation. It has motivated me to challenge the status quo and dream of the impossible.

#WHATIF you could help change the world?

#WHATIF you had friends across the country who you knew would always be there for you?

#WHATIF you dreamed the impossible?

Learn about Phi Delta Theta’s Service Immersion Trip to Honduras this Spring.

Matthew Dempsey is a senior education major at the University of Connecticut and a currently serves as the president of his chapter of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. He is also a member of the Residence Life Staff at the University of Connecticut.  Matthew participated in the AFLV Immersion Trip to El Salvador in January 2011.

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I’ve always felt that Phi Delta Theta isn’t your typical fraternity and, as a result, attracts the kind of guy who is looking for something more in his college experience. It wasn’t until recently that my chapter, Michigan Delta, was able to produce hard evidence to back up this belief.

After a very successful fall recruitment that produced our chapter’s largest Phikeia class in nearly 20 years, our recruitment committee saw a valuable opportunity to evaluate what potential new members are looking for in a fraternity. We created a survey that covered all the bases, with questions ranging from their first thoughts about Greek Life to the factors that mattered most in deciding to accept their bid to Phi Delta Theta. Additional questions, such as when and where they met their first Phi Delt, were intended to help us to further evaluate our campus presence and our recruitment strategies. After finalizing our question set, we had the Phikieas answer the survey at their first meeting of the term.

The results of our survey couldn’t have been clearer.

Out of our 14 Phikeias, only one of them was interested in Greek Life when he first came to Kettering University. All of the others either hadn’t considered joining a fraternity or were leery of them, based on their preconceptions. The results were, once again, extremely clear when we asked those who hadn’t initially considered Greek Life what changed their mind. The most common response was “the people”, while “the opportunities provided by a fraternity” also got a few mentions.

Later in the survey, we listed a variety of factors and asked the Phikeias to rate (on a 1 to 5 scale) how large of a role each one played in their fraternity decision. The runaway favorite was “People and Friendships”, which nearly received a 5’s across the board. “Morals of the House”, “Dry House”, and “Academics” were the other factors that received an average rating above a 4.0. All other likely reasons for joining a fraternity (“Athletics”, “Affordable Housing”, “Chapter Size”, etc) averaged out in the middle ground and had quite a bit of variability, depending on who you were asking.

I feel that the results of this survey do an excellent job of highlighting a few areas that deserve everyone’s attention during this fall’s recruitment. The main thing that we need to keep in mind is that the overwhelming majority of our future brothers aren’t looking into joining a fraternity. It’s something that they won’t actively pursue, which means that we have to go about recruiting them in a slightly different manner. Rather than hoping that potentials come into our chapter house to meet us, we need to get out of our house and go meet them. It’s no coincidence that our brothers who were the most active on campus were listed the most frequently as the first Phi Delt that our Phikeias had met. The greater the presence that your chapter has on campus, the higher the odds that you’ll meet a potential new member, make friends with him, introduce him to a few of your brothers, extend to him a bid, and have him decide that he wants to join your chapter. There’s a reason why chapters that are highly involved on campus always do well during recruitment.

The other thing main point of our survey was that people join people. Friendship was easily the most important reason for joining Phi Delta Theta, according to our Phikeia survey. We didn’t double our chapter size due to having the best rush events; we did it through simply trying to make friends. We made it a point to leave the discussion about Greek Life on the backburner until we started looking at giving them a bid. It’s at that point where we’d talk to them about what Phi Delta Theta had to offer. It’s one thing to hear a sales pitch from a stranger; it’s another to hear it from a friend. Our potentials didn’t feel like they were being “rushed” at all. Rather, they saw our house as a place where they could be among friends. After that, joining the fraternity was the next natural step. What’s great about the new Phi Delt branding initiative is that it takes all of the focus off of the recruitment distractions. We no longer have to worry about banners, t-shirts, or bid cards. Instead, we can simply focus on meeting new people.

The old sayings that “most freshmen aren’t looking into joining a fraternity” and that “people join people” were nothing new to us at Michigan Delta. We’d heard countless speakers and advisers beat these adages to death before. With Kettering being an engineering school, I guess that it only makes sense that none of us would buy into these ideas until we had data that backed them up. Hopefully the results of our survey have left you with a few things to think about as you approach this fall’s recruitment.

Good luck brothers!

Brother Boulter is currently the Chapter President of  Michigan Delta (B-Section) at Kettering University. Michael has also served as Assistant Recruitment Chairman, Works Manager, and Social Chairman. An agent of change at Michigan Delta, he has led the way in numerous Chapter efforts ranging from the creation of accountability systems to the establishment of the GM to GMI Run, a 65-mile relay that won the Kettering 2010 Philanthropy of the Year Award. Michael was also his Chapter’s representative to both ELI in 2010 and PLC in 2011.  He was selected to be a Peer Mentor at the 2011 Emerging Leaders Institute.  Outside of Phi Delta Theta, Michael is an avid marathon runner and is an Iron Phi. He holds positions as President of the Running Club and as the Recruitment Chairman of IFC. As an Electrical Engineering major at a cooperative education school, he enjoys spending 6 months out of every year gaining real-world experience and making contributions to his co-op employer.

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Throughout the past several years, the Kansas Delta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta at Wichita State University has “ratcheted up” membership standards across the board with the goal of increasing the quality of men in the Fraternity.  These scaled up standards affect both current members and potential recruits alike.  The Chapter takes it one step further and has higher standards for individuals to hold executive positions.  The increased standards include higher GPA requirements, more community service hours, campus involvement and a focus on personal character.

Some critics of the ratcheting up plan feared that it would deter recruits from joining because high standards would be seen as an unnecessary burden that would get in the way of their college fun.  On the contrary, the size and performance of the Chapter has skyrocketed in nearly every aspect over the past half-decade.  Academic excellence, athletic performance, domination in countless large-scale campus events like Hippodrome and Homecoming and unmatched professional potential are encouraging signposts of the program’s success.  The Fall 2010 chapter average GPA for Kansas Delta was 3.358, which is an increase from the previous year’s 3.305. This is the highest fraternity GPA and is also higher than the all-male average on campus by far.  The Chapter has had the highest fraternity GPA for three-and-a-half of the past four years.  Furthermore, the Fall 2010 new member class that began with 34 outstanding men is expected to see 26 of those men initiated mid-January.   This will be the largest and highest-quality class seen in six years.

When asked why they chose to join Phi Delta Theta, many new members expressed an admiration of the high standards and professionalism, not to mention the Fraternity’s success on campus.  Long story short, higher standards attract better people, better people lead to more success, and more success attracts even better individuals.  So, let the story of Phi Delta Theta at Wichita State University be an inspiring one for any organization wanting to up the ante – “recruit better people than yourself.”

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Note: The only thing that I found to be consistently effective in all circumstances, (regardless of the varying settings, formalities, etc.), was to directionally exploit each situation to cater to the attention/interests of the individual(s) we were speaking to. Now, I know “directionally exploit” immediately registers a negative, almost self-interested connotation, but in this instance, I am using the word a little differently. When I say “exploit”, I mean to completely and intuitively utilize the specific setting the conversation takes place in to make the potential new member not only feel comfortable having the conversation with you, but to also ensure that the exchange sparks a distinctive interest in your chapter. That is, every fraternity at the University can uniformly spew off an enormity of statistics and facts that they believe will impress a recruit enough to make him favor their organization relative to the others on campus. The key is to understand the specific situation the conversation takes place in, and consequently know when and how to talk about your chapter during your discussion. Directionally exploiting situations is what set my chapter apart from all the other dog and pony shows on campus. Whether it is scholarship interviews over the summer, playing basketball at the rec center, or the monotonous formal recruitment process in the fall, each situation presented its own unique opportunities to distinguish ourselves and our fraternity as something a potential new member wanted to become a part of. I understand you already know the ins and outs of recruiting, (most likely much more than I do), and I’m not trying to lecture you on how to do your job.  I am just telling you what worked for me and my chapter this year. Below is some of what I believed to be the key to our success…

Summer/Informal Recruitment

Offer scholarships: This alone brought us 100+ names of incoming freshman before school even started. Even if they don’t win your scholarship or sign on with you informally, they know specific people in your chapter whom they can identify with later, namely during formal recruitment…(we had five plus guys that we interviewed during the summer join with us through formal recruitment in the fall)

Recruit who you know: While my situation was a bit irregular, I knew of several guys coming from my hometown to the University in the fall. I informed them of our scholarship opportunities, and also extended an individual invitation for each of them to stay at the house during their orientations. Not only did four of the guys end up joining, but each of them were a key asset in getting people from their dorms/classes to stop by and check out our chapter. Even if you had a high school graduating class of 30 and don’t know a single incoming freshman coming from your hometown, others in your house do.

Alumni referrals: Granted, it is easier said than done, but I had several alumni contact me letting me know that their sons, grandsons, nephews, etc. were coming to Iowa in the fall. Alumni newsletters are clutch, and at the very least make certain that your recruitment chair’s contact information is available online.

Formal Recruitment

Be Different: Not in the hipster anti-mainstream sense, but more so in the “directional exploitation” sense discussed in my note. For the average PNM, all the chapters on campus seem more or less the same in the beginning. Basically, the image is a big mysterious house filled with an indiscriminate number of strange and intimidating people with letters from a foreign alphabet posted on the front. Because of this, it is your chapter’s job to distinguish yourselves during formal recruitment by making things much more colloquial. It’s all about what I call, the “Recruitmentality”. The typical “where are you from, what’s your major” talk is impersonal and only goes so far. Start off by addressing the ridiculous formality of the process, (I referred to it as demented speed dating), and ask them how they feel about going through it. In many ways, conversations with potential new members are like conversations with women. Pose the right questions make sure that they are ones talking for majority of the time, (people love to talk about themselves- I shoot for a 1/4 ratio, every second I speak, they speak four more), and to some extent play hard to get. Not country club, nose in the air hard to get, but more so that your chapter has a lot to offer, but doesn’t just offer it to anyone. Essentially, make them feel like this situation is unique to them, and thus offers them a special opportunity to be part of your chapter.

Utlilize your freshmen: We heavily utilized our informal pledge class in helping out with formal. By bringing our Phikeia along for the ride, potential new members were able to speak to freshman just like themselves who had recently just taken the “big step” in joining a fraternity. This not only adds a more personal appeal to your chapter, but stands as a statement that your fraternity offers younger members sincere opportunities to get involved.

General Recruiting

• Keep your house clean
• Appropriate attire
• Understand that you are being constantly evaluated
• First impressions are everything
• REMEMBER THEIR NAMES- a huge part of our success was the simple process of saying each guy’s name 10 times in our head when he told us.  Little things count.
• Be REAL (PNM’s can smell bullsh*t a mile away, and if they can’t, they’re probably not a guy you’d want in your chapter in the first place)

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Some of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had being a Phi came from visiting other chapters of Phi Delt across the country. Whether it is has been spending a weekend with one chapter or visiting one for half an hour, I have always enjoyed seeing some of our brothers across the nation.

With every different chapter I have ever traveled to or stopped by, the experience has always been worth it. You get to hang out with some new people, experience great hospitality and learn more about the area you’re visiting. College campuses and the places they’re in can be very confusing occasionally, so what’s better than having people that you share something in common with to help you out?

In my opinion, the best part of these visits has been the realization that Phi Delta Theta goes beyond the school you attend. Being an Iowa Hawkeye is something I will always cherish, but that is something I share with a select group of people across the country. Being a Phi is something I share with men that have been Hawkeyes, Cyclones, Wolverines, Rebels, Seminoles and so on. It can be difficult to imagine that there is a world outside of your chapter or school, but when you visit other schools and see some of your brothers at other chapters, it really is eye opening about how special it is to be a member of the fraternity.

Needless to say, I highly recommend that all of you still in school try if you can to see some other chapters of Phi Delta Theta. Doing that had an incredible effect on my appreciation of our fraternity and I’m sure it will have the same effect on all of you too.

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I’ve been waiting awhile to write about graduation but considering that it only happened a few days ago for me and thousands of other Phis, I will wait a few more months to share what that feels like.  Meanwhile, I do want to comment on a question that has crossed my mind many times during the last few months – What is the most important thing about college?  Some people say that college is about grades, some say it’s about the social life, and others say it’s about building your resume before you graduate.  Well, in my personal opinion, I really think that college is about all of the opportunities it offers.

College really is the first place for many people where they are faced with what seems to be an endless stream of choices and paths to take.  It is really amazing to think about how much you can do in college if you’re willing.  You can play sports, join many different organizations, be a mascot for your school, be a houseboy for a sorority, write for the school newspaper, etc.

Regardless of the number of choices, the important thing to understand is that only you can make it happen.  It sounds so cliche, but it is extremely difficult for many of us to take full advantage of the opportunities, including myself.  I will admit, I am very proud of all that I have accomplished in college by joining organizations like Phi Delta Theta, College Republicans and Order of Omega, but I could have done so much more!  Many college students waste time watching TV, playing video games, and Facebooking.  For example, if I could go back in time, I would have spent less time on the NCAA football video game series and more time on school!  Hell, I probably would have thrown away those stupid/but amazingly fun games.  Nevertheless, my advice is to reduce the downtime you spend and get yourself out there and involved.  It will never be as easy as it is in college to take advantage of so many different opportunities.

Good luck to all of you still in school (I envy you!) and congratulations to the Class of 2010 on graduation!

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Leave time to focus on yourself.

Learn as much as you can from your alumni.

Reports are important, chapter meetings are important, paperwork is important, BUT the most important thing is brotherhood. You can’t make it happen, it has to come organically from other brothers bonding and connecting. Give them that opportunity whether it’s a group dinner, lunch, pick-up sports etc., and let the magic happen! Don’t push it, but just extend the invitation with a smile!

Set goals early and keep the bar high.

“This is the way we’ve always done it” is an excuse used by single-minded people.

Have FUN!

Take time for yourself. If you can’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of the chapter.

Enjoy the little things.

Lead by example and practice what you preach.

Separate fraternity and friendship when making decisions.

Be accountable for yourself and all of your brothers. If you tell someone that you are going to do something, stay true to your word and do it.

Do not focus on those people in the chapter who may not be showing up to meetings as much as those that you know have potential. As a leader you cannot turn every person into a leader.

Always have a pulse on all the chapter functions so you won’t be blindsided by anything.

Actively prevent and speak against things that are risky. Don’t be silent.

Be strong in your communications. Make an effort to communicate effectively with your CAB.

At the end of the day, it’s just a group of college kids. Make sure to keep your cool even when you are getting frustrated.

Be aware of all GHQ, IFC, and university rules and risk management policies.

Be prepared to say no to some of the guys in the chapter and do the responsible thing instead of the fun thing. Make the hard decision instead of the easy one.

This position is going to be taxing. Know that you’re doing your best and don’t be afraid to rely on others around you (CAB and your exec). Delegation is key.

Always be communicating, especially with less involved members about what can be done better.

Be yourself. Communication is key.

Being a leader isn’t easy. Criticism and praise will be given no matter what you decide to do. It’s what you do with the feedback you receive and how you continue to improve your chapter. In the end have the best intentions no matter what and look to truly become the greatest version of yourself and strive for your chapter to do the same.

Believe in yourself. You need to be able to say no and put your foot down.

Communication is key. It is vital to stay in touch with your CAB, province president, and leadership consultant. In addition, be sure to be open and honest with your members as to what is going on with the Fraternity.

Divide key responsibilities among brothers with strong leadership early on. This promotes growth on their part and keeps any one strong leader from burning out. Have deliverable (reports, events, newsletters, meetings) due for key positions on set dates or intervals of time (weekly, by-weekly, monthly).

Do not procrastinate and follow the chapter greatness checklist.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from anyone.

Don’t do everything yourself. Find your core officers who you can trust and have them help you a lot. Also, be positive, your attitude is what makes everyone else’s attitudes.

Don’t worry about pleasing everyone. Instead, worry about improving yourself and the Fraternity like you know you should.

Don’t get bogged down with everyone’s complaints. They are adults and can deal with it themselves.

Don’t let the opinions or traditions of the chapter keep you from making the right decision.

Don’t procrastinate and make sure your VP is doing his job.

Don’t take on too much too quickly. You have an executive board that is there to help you.

You have the power to do great things as president. Don’t doubt your abilities. You were elected because people saw something in you.

Focus on yourself and show other positions how to do their jobs instead of doing it for them.

Follow the values of the Fraternity and you will never be misguided.

Follow your gut and make sure to value everyone’s opinion.

Give people the benefit of the doubt and a few chances. Be firm but fair. Follow through on commitments.

Hard work and preparation are essential for running an effective and smooth chapter meeting.  YOU and your executive board set the tone for the entire organization. Make it a positive tone of unity not division.

Don’t be afraid to make people upset. Focus on making this chapter better, not making everyone happy.

Have as many individual conversations as you can.

Lead by example. People will follow you when they see you backing up your word. And stay positive. Turn what looks like setbacks into opportunities.

Learn to be political. You could be objectively correct, but if your ideas are unwieldy, you will get nowhere.

Listen to all your members. Be willing to reach out to them to get some input on how they think the chapter is doing.

Most people in the chapter look out for themselves. You have to look for the betterment of the chapter.

Never be afraid to ask for help (even when you think no one else cares), and don’t try to do everyone else’s job.

Pay attention to your chapter and member needs.

Set a calendar and book venues before the semester even starts.

Set the tone early. Make it apparent that you are in charge but be willing to listen to others.

Lean on the most recent president for advice, and don’t get too worried if at the beginning you feel lost.

Stay motivated.

Stay on top of things early and stay organized. Once you get behind it’s hard to catch up.

Stay organized and don’t procrastinate.

Supporting the active members of your chapter should always be your first priority.

Take time to yourself and let the officer positions work for you.

The external side of the job is arguably more important than the internal. Being respected by your chapter matters a lot, but if people outside the chapter don’t respect your opinions and know who you are, your whole chapter will suffer.

Thicken your skin and have 4-5 people to turn to always.

Always remember that you are the face and should carry yourself with respect. Be completely transparent with the information you receive.

Trust your gut and remember that you serve the chapter.

Work closely with the executive board and stay on top of everything.

You have to command respect. It will be hard to yell at your closer friends, but they will respect you more in the long run.

You were elected for a reason so don’t doubt yourself.

Sometimes the right decision isn’t the most popular one.

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Many undergraduates often question why their chapters have to conduct community service events, raise money for philanthropy, and apply and strive to win awards given by their university and by their fraternity’s headquarters.    These are legitimate questions for a young man whose first question is, and ought to be, what is it in for me?  As men mature, they begin to further understand the importance of giving to their communities and better realize that they are small pieces in a slightly bigger puzzle; however, college men who are seeking to obtain the most value from the very short collegiate experience need to ask, “how is this the best use of my time, effort, and overall, what do I have to gain from this?”  Is this question selfish and inconsiderate?  No, these inquirers are simply analyzing whether the benefits outweigh the cost of conducting and performing these actions.

In today’s era, community service, philanthropy, and awards are not only encouraged, but often times required.  Why are these requirements of a social fraternity that has the main objectives of fostering lifetime friendships and offering an experience that builds men’s character and leads to the development of leaders?   Because the often-unwanted requirements bestowed upon the chapter directly fulfill the purposes of building strong relationships, developing leaders, and most importantly, these events give young men the opportunity to learn how to practice excellence in all facets of life.

The experience of planning an event can give people valuable event-planning knowledge that will come in handy many times throughout their professional and personal lives.  Similarly, conducting a philanthropy fundraiser will give the people valuable experience and the knowledge in the fields of planning, cold-calling, and overall selling and fundraising skills, all which will prove to be very beneficial later in life.  Furthermore, the teamwork that is required to make these events successful builds strong bonds based on productivity and reliability, which naturally leads to a powerful networking base that is crucial in the professional world.  Finally, I want to hit on my main point of  why awards matter so much.  Winning awards isn’t about brown-nosing an application packet or conforming to your headquarters requests to stay in their good graces; rather, winning an award is a byproduct of practicing excellence.  Fraternities should not strive to win awards, but instead they should strive to excrete excellence in all their endeavors.  More important than any skill we as humans could ever learn, a commitment to excellence in every thing you do will not only lead to personal growth, but also to a self-satisfying feeling that you truly are the best.

In conclusion, I want to encourage all of my undergraduate brothers of Phi Delta Theta to ask what they have to gain out of the less enjoyable facets of Greek life.  I encourage you to ponder how you can build your human capital by entering into experiences where you stand to gain valuable knowledge that will help your personal growth.  Most importantly, I encourage you to stop thinking of awards as an end goal and rather as a byproduct of the continual practice of excellence, which we as Phi Delta Theta men should constantly strive for.  Do what ought to be done, and reap the benefits.

Yours in the Bond,

Alan Franks
Ga Gamma 1360

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No matter whom I meet, it seems that hazing is a popular topic.  I’ve found that a lot of the people can develop stereotypical images of both the Marines and the Greek system, with regards to hazing. Not only outside of these organizations, but also within I find that members of both these Brotherhoods have their own idea of what hazing can be. I may be talking to a marine about my fraternity, or sometimes a fraternity Brother about the Marines. No matter whom I talk to one question everyone seems to ask is: “Did you get hazed?”

Now I can recall some incidents in boot camp where our drill instructors walk a fine line between training and hazing, yet they never seem to cross it. I usually tell the person I’m talking to that, “No, it was alright.” However whenever I am talking to a Marine or someone else outside of my chapter, and they ask, “Does your Fraternity haze you?” I am proud to say that I can honestly answer no.  There is absolutely no incident that I can recall that even came close to hazing. In fact I can still remember one of the first things our president, Justin Self, told me. He said, “We are not interested and breaking men down; we are interested in building them up.” This philosophy was ever present throughout my pledging process. Even though I did not get hazed, I know that it still goes on in other fraternities.

This last weekend I traveled to my Marine Corps unit for training. I received my annual class from my commanding officer on hazing in the Marine Corps. One of the first things he asked the group was, “Who here is in college?” Many hands went up, including my own. He then asked,   “Who here is in a fraternity?” All but five hands went down. He then had the five of us stand up. The instructor then proceeded to ask each of us if we had been hazed by our fraternity Brothers.

Out of all the other Marines I was the only one who answered “No”. At first the instructor looked at me as if I was lying. Considering the fact that I plan to be a Marine for some time, lying to my commanding officer would not be a good idea. So he asked me again, “Are you sure you didn’t get hazed?” I looked him straight in the eyes and answered again, “No sir, not once.” He was convinced after that and the last thing he said to me was, “Well… I guess you picked an outstanding Fraternity to join.” I truly believe that Phi Delta Theta is that outstanding fraternity and it is experiences such as this that reminds me of it every day.

LCpl. Jordan Campbell
#328, California Xi
Chico State University

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The answer to the question posed above is that we all must support each other. Sometimes, there will not be much any of us can do to help people in situations like our advisor’s except to ease the pain by being there for people like him. Knowing that you have people that care about you is perhaps the most important thing in life that you can have and caring for others is the most important thing you can do.

When some of us went to the wake for our advisor’s son, we experienced how emotional and moving something like that could be for our advisor. We were waiting in the church to pay our respects to him and his wife and we could see each and everyone that went up to them before we did. After a while, we finally got to Mr. White and gave our condolences.

While there, something happened that really touched each of us. He had been relatively composed up until we greeted him but when it was our turn to speak to him, he nearly broke down in tears. This moment really reminded us how important Phi Delta Theta is to many people and the connection that he felt with us in that regard helps to explain why he got so emotional with us compared to other people.

When you join Phi Delta Theta, you are not just joining some campus organization like College Republicans or Student Government you are becoming part of an extended family. Not all of our experiences are going to be pleasant but the thing that separates us from others is that we share these experiences like a family. Phi Delt is not something you just put on your resume, it is something that you carry with you throughout your life.

Yours in the Bond,
Jamie Travis Iowa Beta (Kansas Alpha #2503)

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In memory and honor of our founding father, Robert Morrison, many chapters choose to host a Founders Day event. This event is a chance for alumni to return to the chapter and for friends and family to experience a principal aspect of Phi Delta Theta. The event often includes dinner, presentations and guest speakers. The key to these activities is that they all revolve around the reenactment of our founding ceremony, which portrays the significance of our cardinal principles.

Friendship, Sound Learning and Moral Rectitude, these are our cardinal principles by which we maintain a Bond of Brotherhood. The depiction of how our organization was founded strikes deep in the hearts and minds of the attendees, reminding the alumni where they come from and the brothers why they are there. A most imperative benefit of this is that friends and family are able to understand what Phi Delta Theta stands for, the core of our existence.

Many of our brothers have significant others who spend a lot of time around the chapter. Whether it be hanging around the house, coming to our socials or assisting with philanthropy, I find that they may not fully understand why we exist. It is my personal opinion that when they attend an event such as Founders Day, it reminds them that we are more than a group of friends, we are brothers.

It’s not often that the brothers’ families can come to understand the lighter side of a Fraternity, but the Founders Day event is the perfect place for them to realize that Phi Delta Theta is something more than just letters, more than just a chapter but component of a greater organization, a Bond of Brotherhood.

Yours in the Bond,
Ryan Giordano CA XI #303

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