The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

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FALL 2011 VOLUME 94 NUMBER 2 www.phikaps.org Serving Amidst the Rubble in Afghanistan Phi Kap FBI Agent Fights Terrorism

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• Cover Story: Serving Amidst the Rubble in Afghanistan • Convention 2011 Brings Change • The Path to Servant Leadership • Phi Kappa Theta by Choice • Foundation Update

Transcript of The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

Page 1: The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

FALL 2011VOLUME 94

NUMBER 2www.phikaps.org

Serving Amidstthe Rubble inAfghanistanPhi Kap FBI Agent Fights Terrorism

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THE TEMPLE is published once a year as an educational journal for Phi Kappa Theta brothers, family and friends.

Postmaster: If undeliverable, please send notice on Form 3579 immediately to Phi Kappa Theta, 9640 Commerce Drive, Suite 420, Carmel, IN 46032 (please note the change from North August Drive)The submission deadline is September 1. Brothers and friends are encouraged to provide clippings, releases or notices about themselves or any aspect of Phi Kappa Theta for consideration. All submissions become property of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. Pictures cannot be returned. Letters to the Editor will be printed at the discretion of the editor.

Copyright © 2011

Fall 2011 Volume 94, Number 2

MANAGING EDITORKeith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06)

COPY EDITORGregory E. Stein (CCNY, ‘70)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSJohn B. Hohenstein (Belmont Abbey, ‘12)Gene C. Ney (Slippery Rock, ‘90)Stephen S. Lee (Lewis, ‘10)Jeff W. Jowdy (Univ. of Georgia, ‘83)Andrew J. McGowan (CCNY, ‘62)Steve Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82)

NATIONAL BOARD OF TRUSTEESPresidentNathan G. Rues (Missouri S&T, ‘02)

Vice PresidentMark C. Anthony (Georgia Tech, ‘90)

TreasurerRick Maggiore (Univ. of Georgia, ‘68)

SecretaryLenny S. Chan (Slippery Rock, ‘95)

TrusteesFather Owen J. Mullen (Univ. of San Diego, ‘A)Larry F. Dorocke (Purdue University, ‘68)Joe E. Przybyla (Lewis, ‘01)Joshua J. Gisi (Univ. of Kansas, ‘96)

UGAC ChairmanAndrew Carter Black (Univ. of Georgia, ‘13)

UGAC Vice ChairmanIsaiah Adona (Washington State, ‘12)

EXECUTIVE OFFICES9640 Commerce Drive, Suite 420Carmel, IN 46032317.872.9934FAX: [email protected]

EXECUTIVE OFFICES STAFFExecutive Vice PresidentRobert W. Riggs (RPI, ‘02)

Director of OperationsSarah A. Everhart (Indiana Wesleyan University, ‘05)

Associate Executive Director of Education and DevelopmentAnita L. Kerlin (Bowling Green State University, ‘03)

Director of Communications and MarketingKeith D. Harshbarger (IUPUI, ‘06)

Accounting ClerkBill T. Ryan (Indiana University, ‘79)

FOUNDATION STAFFAssistant Director of DevelopmentAllyson L. Clarkson (Centre College, ‘01)

PRESIDENT’S NOTE

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Putting Our Mission Into ActionDear Brothers,

It is an honor to serve as president of an organization that has given me so much. It is my hope that all of our Brothers can have the same great fraternity experience that I have had. Much of what I have learned about leadership and service has occurred because of Phi Kappa Theta and it has complimented my technical formal education in engineering very well. Serving the fraternity at the local level and the national level has been my passion since graduating from Missouri S&T in 2002.

Since joining the national board, I have been persistent in focusing the fraternity on its mission. First, to clarify it and next to execute it: Phi Kappa

Theta actively develops men to be effective leaders who passionately serve their society, fraternity and God. This mission has always been at the core of Phi Kappa Theta, but it was buried where it couldn’t effectively drive the actions of the fraternity. It now drives everything we do and the transformation in how we work has been exciting to witness. This clear mission to develop servant leaders is extremely relevant today as people are growing increasingly suspicious of those they have entrusted with leadership offices. Society has an unmet need for effective servant leaders and Phi Kappa Theta is investing in developing them. We are investing not just words and rhetoric, but our actions… because we know it is by our actions that we will be judged.

One of the most direct results of our mission is a new partnership with the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership. Simply stating servant leadership in our mission does not make us experts in the field. Our executive staff, driven by our strategic plan, sought out the true experts and forged a partnership with them. As a board member it is a reassuring feeling that the organization is on the right path when others, from outside the fraternity, are so willing to join you on that path. This new partnership will give Phi Kappa Theta access to some of the best resources available to better develop servant leadership in our Brothers. Throughout these pages, and through the year, you should start to see some fruits of this partnership.

Now that the fraternity is headed in the right direction, the main challenge I see is accelerating our performance. Effective communication of our message to our alumni and chapter membership is key. I hope you enjoy this edition of the TEMPLE and the message it shares.

Yours in the Bonds of Phi Kappa Theta,

Nathan Rues, (Missouri S&T, ‘02)National President

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ContentsFALL 2011

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On the cover: Brother Ali Soufan observing the rubble of one of Bin Laden’s Hideouts in Afghanistan in 2002.

Background Image: Dr. Rinehart near basecamp with Mt. Everest looming in the background. Story on page 22.

Not sure what those boxes are?They’re QR codes. Here’s what to do with them.

1. Download the appQR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can be read by smart phone cameras. Search “QR code” to find a free QR app for your phone.

2. Scan the codeHold your phone over a box. The app will use your camera to read the code.

3. EnjoyThe codes will direct your phone to an email address, information update, video, or registration page in this magazine.

National Treasure - Ali Soufan

Brother Ali Soufan followed his sense of adventure all the way to the FBI, remembering how encouragement from his Brothers gave him strength.

Features11

15

24

32The Foundation discusses continuing our lifelong legacy of developing servant leaders among undergraduate brothers.

Learn more about Phi Kappa Theta’s Servant leadership initiative and the path we’re on.

Foundation Update

Convention 2011 Brings Change

The Path to Servant Leadership

Our mission continues to guide us towards serving others. Discover more about the Servant Leadership aspect and this year’s Convention.

Brother Jeff Jowdy discusses why he picked Phi Kappa Theta with a lifetime perspective in mind.

Phi Kappa Theta by Choice06

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www.phikaps.orgFind us; friend us; follow us!

+ Watch our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/PhiKappaTheta1959

+ Join us on Linkedin: Search Linkedin Groups for “Phi Kappa Theta’s Professional Network”

To receive the Kappa Quarterly please send your email address to [email protected]

+ Visit the National Website: www.phikaps.org

+ Follow the Staff Blog: phikapstaff.blogspot.com/

+ LIKE us on Facebook: Search “Phi Kappa Theta, Inc”

+ Subscribe to the PKT Twitter: twitter.com/phikappatheta

At the 2011 National Convention this year, we unveiled the Individual Servant Leadership Award. Brothers now have the opportunity to nominate, via video, a Phi Kappa Theta brother for this brand new award. The Honoree will receive a free trip to the 2012 Leadership Institute. He will be given the award at the Leadership Institute, and serve as an ambassador for the organization during the following academic year.

This award is presented to a brother that has demonstrated that he is well respected in his community while making a positive difference individually and through encouraging others.

In order to enter you must create a 3-5 minute video that includes an endorsement/nomination from both a collegiate chapter member and a

New Award Offered to Brothers

View information on the 2012 ISLA Award on your mobile device.

campus or community representative that is NOT a member of Phi Kappa Theta. The video should communicate the impact this individual brother has had on their community. Be appropriate, creative, and have fun! You must also transmit a ½ page submission form with the nominee’s and nominator’s contact information. Visit http://phikaps.org/isla/ to download the submission form and learn more.

Interested in writing for the Temple magazine?

Calling All WritersPhi Kappa Theta is constantly looking for talented writers to write Temple stories and articles for the Fraternity’s National Magazine! Writers might also be asked to write for phikaps.org. Degrees in the writing field are preferred, but writers will be selected based on quality of submitted examples. If you are interested, please submit your information and samples of your work to [email protected].

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Phi Kappa Theta2012 Regional Leadership Conferences

Visit phikaps.org for cost information an agenda andto register

EASTERN 2Becket-ChimneyCornersBecket, MAJanuary 6-8

EASTERN 1Camp Blue DiamondPetersburg, PA January 6-8

EAST CENTRALJameson CampIndianapolis, IN January 20-22

WEST CENTRALTall OaksConference CenterLinwood, KS January 27-29

FALL 2011 05

View a promo for the 2012 Regional Leadership Conferences on your mobile device.

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Ali Soufan had a conversation about his career prospects with the vice president of student affairs at Mansfield University and Joe Maresco suggested that the perfect job might be with the FBI. When Soufan returned to the Phi Kap house and told fraternity brothers that he was thinking of taking the suggestion, the brothers laughed and said an application to the agency, dominated by Irish- and Italian-Americans, from a Lebanon-born, dark-complexioned Muslim student of international affairs would be marked “return to sender.” One brother said: “They’ll probably think it’s a joke application.” But another said: “If he could convince everyone in the university to raise funds for a new student center, he could convince some drug dealers to come clean,” referring to one of Soufan’s accomplishments as student body president.

“My fraternity brothers made a bet with me, and with one another, on how far I could get through the bureau’s selection process. I never expected to make it all the way, but I passed every level, even the polygraph,” he says. The series of tests and interviews took almost a year. And then he didn’t hear from the bureau. Thinking that he’d failed and the bureau had forgotten to notify him, he finished at Mansfield and began a master’s in international studies at Villanova, planning to become an academic. While he was completing the M.A. (magna cum laude) and preparing to move to England to pursue a PhD, he

A Bet with Brothers Leads to a Legendary Career in Intelligence

“My fraternity brothers made a bet with me, and with one another, on how far I could get through the bureau’s selection process.”—Ali Soufan

Phi Kap in Focus

By Andrew McGowanCCNY, ‘62

Ali H. Soufan (Mansfield, ‘94) became ‘one of the most impressive, intelligent agents,’ the person who came closest to preventing 9/11

received a letter that changed his course - it asked him to report to FBI training.

That was the beginning of a storied career in intelligence. He rose to the rank of Supervisory Special Agent, investigating and supervising major international terrorism cases, including the East Africa embassy bombings, the attack on the USS Cole, and the events surrounding 9/11. A 2006 profile of him in the The New Yorker magazine said “He was absolutely invaluable to the bureau because of his skills, his innate talent, and his relentless nature.”

But Soufan, who left the FBI in 2005, is at odds with the government now. He

says that if the CIA had responded to requests he had initiated, for information they possessed that would have connected his investigation into the USS Cole attack with plans for the 9/11 attacks, the plane hijackings might have been prevented. And he questions the value and propriety of the “enhanced” interrogation techniques used on terrorism suspects. His outspokenness

put him all over the news around the tenth anniversary of 9/11; he was interviewed on “60 Minutes” and PBS’s “Frontline” in September and “The Colbert Report” in October; the book he coauthored with Daniel Freedman, The Black Banners: The Inside

“He was absolutely invaluable to the bureau because of his skills, his innate talent, and his relentless nature.”—The New Yorker

In a 60 MINUTES interview that aired recently, Ali Soufan (Mansfield, ‘94) spoke about his work with the FBI and their anti-terrorism efforts.

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Left: Ali’s book, “The Black Banners” discusses his work during 9/11.

Right: In a 60 MINUTES interview Ali (middle, kneeling) is pictured with his Phi Kap chapter from Mansfield University.

Story of 9/11 and the War Against al Qaeda, hit The New York Times bestseller list in October.

Let’s go back to the beginning of that career. With 16 weeks of training completed at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, Brother Soufan was assigned to the New York office in November 1997. After rotating through the office’s divisions, he was assigned to Mafia cases. Since graduate school he had had an interest in Osama bin Ladin and after reading about bin Ladin’s fatwa against the U.S., he wrote a memo for FBI superiors on the religious edict’s significance and urging greater FBI attention to bin Ladin. This attracted the attention of the head of the New York office, the legendary John O’Neill, who headed the FBI ‘s entire National Security Division. The boss invited the rookie to dinner. “We were at Kennedy’s on West 57 Street in midtown Manhattan, sitting at a table by the fireplace,” Soufan says in The Black Banners. After talking about Soufan’s memo and terrorism, O’Neill said: “So, Ali, now let me ask you a personal question.... What led you, a boy born in Beirut, from a family of intellectuals, to our ranks? You’re not a typical recruit.” Soufan told about the bet with his fraternity brothers. “You’re kidding me,” O’Neill said; “Well, I see you’re honest.... And they say gambling doesn’t pay off.”

As part of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, which comprised squads from other law enforcement and intelligence agencies as well as the FBI, Soufan helped investigate the terrorist bombings of U.S. embassies in East Africa in 1998. In 1999,

he was sent to Jordan to investigate the Jordan Millennium Bombing plot.

Then in 2000, he was made the lead investigator of the October bombing of the USS Cole in the harbor of Aden, Yemen, which killed 17 American soldiers. Studying the transcripts of interviews others conducted with al-Qaeda operative Fahad al-Quso, and piecing together information about aliases used by people al-Quso referred to, Soufan was able to identify one of the Cole bombing masterminds, Khallad bin Attash. Given a chance to interrogate al-Quso himself, Soufan got him to admit that he met earlier that year with bin Attish and one of the Cole bombers in Thailand, and that he gave bin Attash $36,000. Soufan wondered why money was sent from the Cole plotters before their attack and speculated that it may have been for another planned attack. He asked the CIA for information about Khallad and a meeting he attended in Southeast Asia in early 2000, but got no answer. Two more requests, some through high levels and with later knowledge that the meeting took place in Malaysia, brought no useful information.

While investigating the Cole case and interrogating radical jihadist prisoners, Soufan could quote Qur’anic passages, challenge suspects about the meaning of the prophet’s words and gain enough trust to engage them in extended conversations about their lives. “It’s amazing the amount of information that

came out of his interviews,” says Robert McFadden, a Navy criminal investigator who worked with Soufan on the Cole case. Soufan was one of only eight FBI agents who spoke Arabic, and the only one working out of the New York office, where terrorism investigations were concentrated. He often sat on the floor with suspects, offered them tea, and argued religion and politics, while drawing out information.

The team investigating the Cole incident was pulled from Yemen in June of 2001, because of threats against it. On August 22, 2001, John O’Neill, on his last day before retiring from the FBI, sent Soufan as the head of a team back to Yemen for further investigation. On the day Soufan left for Yemen, the CIA finally told the FBI some of what it knew about the Malaysia summit and attendance by two men who would become 9/11 hijackers, but the information was not relayed to Soufan. On the day after 9/11, Soufan, still in Yemen, received from the CIA a set of photos and a surveillance report about the meeting in Malaysia. Khalid Almihdhar and Nawaf

Alhazmi, 9/11 hijackers, were shown. If Soufan had known that earlier, he might have been able to uncover their plans and thwart them. “When Soufan realized that the [CIA] and some people in the [FBI] had known

“It’s amazing the amount of information that came out of his interviews.”—Robert McFadden

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for more than a year and a half that two of the hijackers were in the [US], he ran to the bathroom and retched,” said Lawrence Wright in the July 10. 2006 New Yorker magazine profile of Soufan. One of the people killed at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 was John O’Neill, who had joined the complex as director of security about two weeks earlier.

With evidence that linked the Cole and 9/11 attacks, Soufan was assigned to interrogate other al-Qaeda suspects in Yemen. Fahad al-Quso admitted to recognizing one of the 9/11hijackers, Marwan Alshehhi. Abu Jandal, Osama bin Ladin’s bodyguard, in intensive interrogation over the course of five days, gave extensive information about al-Qaeda, and identified half a dozen other hijackers in photos.

In early 2002, Soufan flew to Guantánamo to train interrogators of captured jihadist suspects. He preached rapport-building techniques, which he said were most effective and were critical to maintaining America’s image in the Middle East. “The whole world is watching what we do here,” he said; “We’re going to win or lose the war depending on how we do this.” FBI Director Robert Mueller visited Gitmo and the base commander asked Soufan to join a tour for the director. “I had just come out of an interrogation and was wearing cargo pants and a polo shirt and had a beard, so I didn’t look like an FBI agent,” Soufan says in The Black Banners. “I noticed the director looking at me strangely, as if trying to work out who I was.” At the end of the tour, Soufan introduced himself. “You’re Ali?,” the director asked.... “I should tell you that I just came from a trip overseas, and in many countries, when we landed, the foreign services would ask me, ‘How is Ali doing?’ I’ve heard a lot of great things about you, so I’m very happy to meet you.”

On March 29, 2002 Soufan was in his New York City apartment packing for a vacation with family in Pennsylvania when his landline, cell phone and pager rang consecutively; the Joint Terrorism Task Force ordered him to a secret CIA prison in Thailand to help with the interrogation of America’s first “high-value” detainee since 9/11, Abu Zubaydah, who had been captured in Faisalbad, Pakistan. Zubaydah had been shot in the firefight and Soufan and a partner, Steve Gaudin, had to work to keep him alive. “He couldn’t eat, drink or even clean up after himself,” Soufan says in The Black Banners; the interrogators placed ice on his lips for

liquid and cleaned him up after he soiled himself. Over a period of weeks, using a combination of “knowledge and empathy,” says Soufan, he and Guadin built rapport with Zubaydah and got him, accidentally, to reveal that Khalid Sheik Mohammed was mastermind of the 9/11 plot. He says most of his interrogation subjects don’t expect to be treated respectfully, engaged in conversation and offered food and drink, “And that scares them, that shakes them, because they were trained that we are so evil and we torture and kill and that is the reason of the rage against us.” Then a group of CIA contractors arrived, soon employing “enhanced” interrogation techniques, including stripping Zubaydah nude, making the room cold and bombarding him with loud music. Soufan says he yelled at a contractor, telling what he was doing was wrong, ineffective and an affront to American values. Soufan reported this to FBI headquarters -- “I swear to God, I’m going to arrest these guys,” he said he shouted into the phone. The FBI director ordered his agents home and directed the bureau no longer to take part in CIA interrogations.

At the White House, the Justice Department and U.S. intelligence agencies, there were heated debates. In August, Justice issued a memo approving everything the CIA contractors had proposed, including waterboarding, which was used on Zubaydah 83 times. Tension between Soufan and the CIA and the Bush administration grew. Especially when he presented his point of view to the 9/11 Commission in 2004, giving information that made the CIA look bad. “It was... clear that some high-level people at the time were specifically targeting me,” he said; “Ever since I had been interviewed by the 9/11 Commission, I was a marked man.”

Completing an undercover operation--in which he posed as a personal representative of Osama bin Laden in dealing with a Bronx martial arts expert and a Florida doctor who wanted to join al-Qaeda--Soufan accepted the invitation to join a colleague who was leaving the FBI to join a consulting firm headed by former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. He left the FBI in May of 2005. At a farewell party, he told a friend who said his leaving was a great loss for the bureau: “Well, the oath I took to defend the United States from enemies foreign and domestic doesn’t end with a paycheck. I’ll still be doing my part, just from a different angle.”

He became chief operating officer of the international division of Giuliani

Security & Safety LLC and was instrumental in expanding its global reach. Then in 2008 he founded the Soufan Group, surrounding himself with people he had worked with within the FBI, CIA and Britain’s security agencies. He sees this work as a continuation of what he was doing for the FBI, now consulting with governments, multinational corporations and institutions to thwart terrorist threats. The company has headquarters in New York, London and Doha, Qatar, and operations in the U.S., the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa. He also is executive director of the Qatar International Academy for Security Studies in Doha. Taking an academic approach, the academy conducts and promotes studies to understand what makes people join terrorist groups in various parts of the world, taking into account socioeconomic and tribal characteristics that vary by area. And he is a visiting senior fellow at the S. Rataratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

In secret testimony before the 9/11 Commission in 2004 ¬and open testimony before the Senate Judicial Committee hearing on torture in 2009, Soufan gave his views on the CIA’s “enhanced” interrogation techniques. He elaborated in media pieces about and by him, also talking about the CIAs refusal to supply information that might have allowed the 9/11 attacks to be thwarted. The 2006 New Yorker profile described him as coming as close as anyone to preventing the attacks. In April and September 2009 op-ed essays in The New York Times, following the Obama administration’s declassification of the Bush administration “torture memos,” and assertions by former Vice President Dick Cheney and others that aggressive

Soufan observing the rubble of one of Bin Laden’s Hideouts in Afghanistan in 2002.

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“The idea of being an agent appealed to my sense of adventure, as did the chance to help protect America, a country I had come to dearly love.”—Ali Soufan

Bartender Maurice O’Connell, about whom Soufan says “many in the law inforcement community and the FBI viewed as the best bartender in New York,” stands between the owners of Kennedy’s, Michael Glynn (left) and Paul Hurley, October 20 at the dedication of the room where Soufan and Jim O’Neill used to dine as the “John O’Neill Room.” Photo by Andrew McGowan.

techniques were necessary and valuable, he stated his case for traditional interrogation techniques. Former George W. Bush speechwriter Marc Thiessen, writing in the October 2009 National Review, said Soufan’s testimony and op-ed pieces were contradicted by CIA documents stating that Abu Zubaydah gave worthwhile information only during the CIA “enhanced” interrogation. But Thiessen’s claim is contradicted by the 2008 Department of Justice Inspector General’s Report quoting FBI sources that “ Zubaydah was responding to the FBI rapport-based approach before the CIA assumed control..., but became uncooperative after being subjected to the CIA’s techniques.” Soufan’s assertion was supported by Philip Zelikow, former executive director of the 9/11 Commission, who called Soufan “one

of the most impressive, intelligent agents from any agency.” In the 572-page The Black Banners, released by W.W. Norton & Company in September, he lays out his FBI experiences and frustrations in detail--except that the CIA ordered many words,

phrases and paragraphs blacked out. Early in the book he describes his reasons for accepting the FBI offer: “The idea of being an agent appealed to my sense of adventure, as did the chance to help protect America, a country I had come to dearly love, “ he says. “I loved it because of the welcome it had given me and my family and because, having grown up in a country pulled apart by sectarian

discord, I had come to appreciate the greatness of the United States and admire the ideals that had created the nation.”

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Comm

erce Drive

West 96th Street

North M

ichigan Road - 421

Interstate 465

West 97th Street

10 FALL 2011

On the second Wednesday of each month from 8-9PM EST Phi Kappa Theta will host an online roundtable where collegiate and alumni members are invited to gather to discuss and learn about varying topics.

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

Contact Anita Kerlin, Associate Executive Director of Education and Development [email protected] with questions or topic suggestions.

Monthly Online Roundtable Discussions withPhi Kappa Theta

Continuing Education Opportunity

Topics for virtual roundtables:

Nov. 9th - Managing Risk

Dec. 14th - Fraternity Networking

For more information and to register please visitphikaps.org/news-events/virtualroundtables/

The road that the National Office of Phi Kappa Theta is located on has recently been restructured to include roundabouts and a connection to through streets. This progress has brought a new address to the street the National Office is located on. This new street is now named Commerce Drive, formerly North Augusta Drive.

By mid 2012 the North Augusta address will no longer be active.

NEW ADDRESS - 9640 Commerce Drive, Suite 420 Carmel, IN 46032

The National Office Has a New Address

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View the 2011 National ConventionRecap Video on your mobile device.

This past August, nearly two hundred collegiate and alumni Brothers and guests traveled to Indianapolis, IN to participate in Phi Kappa Theta’s 58th Biennial Convention.

Beginning on Wednesday, August 3rd, Brothers began to arrive in Indianapolis. Over the course of the next six days, Brothers engaged in Fraternity and Foundation Board meetings, leadership elections, general sessions and committee meetings. Participants heard from representatives of the Childrens Miracle Network, attended the Foundation’s Man of Achievement luncheon honoring Brother Nick Scalera (Seton Hall, ‘63) and celebrated the developmental accomplishments of our collegiate Brothers during the Recognition Banquet.

With so many different events and activities taking place through the Convention, in the past it has been difficult to describe its true purpose to anyone who has never attended. However, it is with great clarity that we can communicate that, Convention provides the structured opportunity for Brothers to make formal decisions that will ultimately shape our future.

Convention 2011 Brings Change

By Robert RiggsRPI, ‘02

Servant Leadership Takes Flight

With so many Brothers coming together from across the country and across generations, Convention has always a great time to celebrate the brotherhood of Phi Kappa Theta. However, Convention can often cause a great deal of stress for many of our Brothers because their decisions always have a direct and long term impact on both their current and future Brothers. Convention challenges our Brothers to determine what the right decisions for the Fraternity are. It requires Brothers to understand the needs of the Fraternity beyond their own immediate involvement. To the credit of the 58th Biennial Convention attendees, these Brothers rose to the challenge and have made some very significant commitments to that will directly impact Phi Kappa Theta’s ability to deliver on our Vision of becoming a human development organization.

Our core purpose is further refined.

Since the announcement of our reestablished Mission in 2008, Phi Kappa Theta has continued to refine our own understanding of the Mission to ensure that it truly is at the core of our existence.

For many organizations, their mission serves as the tagline to be memorized and shared when explaining the organization to others. For an organization’s members to know their mission, of course, is a very important step. For Phi Kappa

Theta, it is simply the first step. We remain committed to helping our brotherhood understand and use our Mission to guide their daily actions and behaviors. This summer’s Convention provided the opportunity to the Fraternity’s top leaders to come together and make another significant step in establishing Phi Kappa Theta’s purpose. We now have come to understand that Phi Kappa Theta will develop servant leaders.

The idea of servant leadership has been discussed for several years. However, it was only this summer that we realized how strongly servant leadership should be rooted at our core. Understanding our commitment to servant leadership,

Phi Kappa Theta actively develops men to be effective leaders who passionately serve society, Fraternity and God.

-Our Mission

Convention provides the structured opportunity for Brothers to make formal decisions that will ultimately shape our future.

Top: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute wins the 2011 Founders’ Cup.

Second to Top: Anita Kerlin, Associate Executive Director of Education and Development for Phi Kappa Theta stands with Brothers from the newly chartered Phi Kap chapter at Bridgewater State University.

Second to Bottom: Former National President Ed Solvibile (Temple, ‘63) with Collegiate and Alumni Brothers.

Bottom: Nathan Rues (Missouri S&T, ‘02) is installed as the 2011-2013 National President.

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the Fraternity has established a formal partnership with the experts in servant leadership.

Robert K. Greenleaf spent forty years of his professional career researching management, development and education while working at AT&T. It was during his research that he began to believe that power-center authoritative leadership was not working. In 1964, Robert K. Greenleaf retired and established the Center for Applied Ethics. In 1970, Greenleaf wrote an essay, “The Servant as a Leader”. It is from this essay that the concept of servant leadership was born. In 1985, the Center was renamed the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership.

This summer, Phi Kappa Theta and the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership established a formal partnership which will provide our Brothers with direct access to expert facilitators and

resources on the philosophy of servant leadership. Our decision to commit to developing servant leaders will be present in our National and Regional Leadership Conferences as well as our educational resources developed for our Brothers.

Collegiate Brothers commit to investing in our Future.

The second significant decision made during the Convention addressed the financial commitment of our collegiate Brothers. The specific decision voted upon and passed was to raise the annual per member fee of an initiated collegiate Brother from $100 to $124. Additionally, these fees would increase annually by $4 per member for the next five years. This decision by the 58th Biennial Convention is significant for two reasons.

The first is the direct impact of additional revenue. Since 1999, Phi Kappa Theta’s membership fees for collegiate Brothers have essentially remained unchanged. The additional revenue will allow for additional educational programs and resources to be developed, providing more opportunities for us to develop our Brothers to become servant leaders.

The second is that Phi Kappa Theta’s Mission and Vision are starting to truly become part of Phi Kappa Theta’s culture for our collegiate Brothers. Phi Kappa Theta’s By-Laws state that only collegiate Brothers are empowered to vote on raising their membership fees. Voting to raise their own financial obligations to the Fraternity

• Educational programming in the area of servant leadership

• Articles in the area of servant leadership for our communications pieces

• Membership Rate for all Phi Kaps for the Greenleaf Center’s annual conference, the Greenleaf Academy, and the Certification Program.

• In return, we ask Phi Kaps to spread the word about the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership.

is a testament to our collegiate Brothers. They not only understand that Phi Kappa Theta has a long term Vision, they are willing to personally invest to ensure we are successful.

Advisory Senate established

Our collegiate Brothers have had a long standing tradition of being represented at the National level. The Fraternity has divided its chapters into six geographic Provinces throughout the country. During Convention, the chapters meet within their respective Provinces to elect from their peers, a representative to serve on the six member Undergraduate Advisory Committee (UGAC). The role of the UGAC has been to serve as the collegiate voice for Phi Kappa Theta, working directly with the professionals and volunteer leadership of the Fraternity. Two members of the UGAC, the Chair and Vice-Chair also serve directly on the National Board of Trustees, providing our collegiate members with full voting rights on the leadership decisions made by the Board.

The UGAC has served the Fraternity well for many years. However, to meet the rising demands of ongoing communication and connection to the National Fraternity, Brothers recognized the need to increase our collegiate Brothers’ involvement at the national level. Understanding this need, the Convention made another bold decision by increasing the engagement of our collegiate Brothers by establishing the Undergraduate Advisory Senate on the

It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the need to assuage an unusual power drive or to acquire material possessions…The leader-first and the servant-first are two extreme types. Between them there are shadings and blends that are part of the infinite variety of human nature.

-The Servant as Leader, Robert K Greenleaf

The 2011 National Convention attendees.

12 FALL 2011

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National Constitution.The concept of the Undergraduate

Advisory Senate first started with the collegiate Brothers serving as the 2009-2011 UGAC. Their vision for the Senate began in late 2009. “There were many times where the UGAC was attempting to communicate directly with the chapter presidents.” Said Max Jasper (Univ. of San Diego, ‘11), UGAC Chair, ‘09-11. “However, with several members being former chapter presidents ourselves, we could relate to the demands of leadership that are required at the chapter level by the president. The establishment of a chapter leadership position whose sole responsibility is to represent the collegiate chapter at the national level would provide the opportunity for presidents to focus directly on their respective chapter.”

After nearly twelve months of developing their concept, the UGAC began to share their vision of the Undergraduate Advisory Senators with their Provinces. Utilizing the Fraternity’s Regional Leadership Conferences as feedback for their draft, the UGAC continued to refine the role of the UGAC in preparation for this summer’s Convention. Because there has been a significant amount of communication with the collegiate chapters prior to Convention, the passing of the Undergraduate Advisory Senate was unanimous by the Convention.

Now that the Undergraduate Advisory Senate has become part of our National

Constitution, collegiate chapters have begun to elect their respective Senators this fall. “The establishment of the Undergraduate Advisory Senate is a very exciting next step for Phi Kappa Theta” said National President, Nathan Rues. “The Senate allows an even stronger direct link between the Fraternity’s leadership and the collegiate Brothers. We are anxious to begun utilizing the Senate to continue to move the Fraternity forward.”

Fraternity and Foundation Partnership Strengthens

Phi Kappa Theta’s success in becoming a human development organization will require significant support from its National Foundation. The establishment of effective educational conferences, workshops and materials call for an investment of significant financial resources. The collegiate chapters electing to increase their own commitment this Convention was one of the essential steps to making those resources available to Phi Kappa Theta. Another essential step was the Convention’s passing of a resolution to adopt the National Foundation as its recognized philanthropic partner. This Resolution is significant in that it commits the Fraternity to continuing to raise awareness of the Foundation and its role within Phi Kappa Theta.

Collegiate chapters will now have the opportunity to raise financial resources

that will directly benefit their own chapters. This will be done by establishing chapter designated endowments through the National Foundation. These endowments will allow chapters to increase the number of collegiate members who are able to attend Phi Kappa Theta’s educational programs.

Initially there was some concern that this Resolution would eliminate Phi Kappa Theta’s partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), the Fraternity’s national philanthropic partner since 1997. Those concerns were addressed by continuing to recognize the CMN as a worthy philanthropic cause for our Brothers to remain committed to.

Final Thoughts

Convention is perhaps the most exciting time to be a Brother of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. The opportunity to spend a few days with fellow Brothers who represent not

only our Fraternity from across the country but across our history is truly rewarding. Regardless of chapter or generation, Brothers are able to come together, share our common bond of Brotherhood and make decisions for the future of Phi Kappa Theta. We are blessed to have such strong men of good moral character involved not only with our Convention but with Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. We are already looking forward to planning the next Biennial Convention in 2013.

Key Convention Decisions made:

1. Phi Kappa Theta is committed to the development of Servant Leaders

2. Collegiate Brothers make a multi-year financial commitment to meet the demand for additional educational resources

3. Undergraduate Advisory Senate created to provide increased collegiate engagement at the National level

4. Fraternity resolves to strengthen its commitment to the Foundation

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Six Provinces / Undergraduate Advisory Committee Members

MideastJoseph Scioscia(Duquesne University)

Great LakesNick Howard(University of Cincinnati)

MidwestJames Owens(University of Nebraska–Lincoln)

NortheastBrendon Albert(Temple University)

SouthernAndrew Carter Black(University of Georgia)

WesternIsaiah Adona(Washington State University)

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Belmont Abbey College, North Carolina Alpha Rho Winner - Intellectual Development Excellence Award Winner - Spiritual Development Excellence Award

Bridgewater State University, Massachusetts Zeta Winner - Edward J. Kirchner Colony Development Award

Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Gamma Tau Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award Honorable Mention - Chapter Servant Leadership Award Honorable Mention - Social Development Excellence Award

Lehigh University, Pennsylvania Alpha Honorable Mention - Intellectual Development Excellence Award

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Eta Winner - Social Development Excellence Award Runner Up - Growth and Stability Award Runner Up - Chapter Servant Leadership Award Runner Up - Spiritual Development Excellence Award Runner Up - Fraternal Development Excellence Award Honorable Mention - Michael T. McSweeney Leadership Development

Award Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award Honorable Mention - Member Development Programming Award

Missouri University of Science and Technology, Missouri Mu Runner Up - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

Northern Illinois University, Illinois Psi - Dr. Michael Morris Chapter Mentor Award

2010-2011 National ConventionAward Winners

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, New York Sigma Winner - 2011 Founders’ Cup Winner - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award Winner - Member Development Programming Award Winner - Fraternal Development Excellence Award Winner - Michael T. McSweeney Leadership Development Award Honorable Mention - Growth and Stability Award Honorable Mention - Intellectual Development Excellence Award

University of Cincinnati, Ohio Omicron Winner - Most Improved Chapter Award Winner - Growth and Stability Award Runner Up - Member Development Programming Award Runner Up - Intellectual Development Excellence Award Runner Up - Michael T. McSweeney Leadership Development Award Runner Up - Fraternal Development Excellence Award Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

University of Detroit Mercy, Michigan Omega Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

University of Georgia, Georgia Delta Rho Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

University of New Hampshire, New Hampshire Epsilon Runner Up - Social Development Excellence Award Honorable Mention - George Uihlein Alumni Engagement Award

Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts Lambda Winner - Chapter Servant Leadership Award Runner Up - Social Development Excellence Award Honorable Mention - Member Development Programming Award

If your chapter is not listed here they were not recognized for their development achievements throughout the 2010-2011 academic year.

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MEET THE BOARD 2011-2013

TrusteeFather Owen J. Mullen

UGAC ChairmanAndrew Carter Black*

California Phi Delta-— Alumnus Initiate

National Vice PresidentMark Anthony

Georgia GammaTau -— 1990

TrusteeJoshua Gisi

Kansas Epsilon-— 1996

National SecretaryUGAC AdvisorLenny Chan

Pennsylvania Sigma Rho -— 1995 Georgia Delta Rho

-— 2013

TrusteeLarry Dorocke

Indiana Zeta-— 1968

National TreasurerRick Maggiore

Georgia DeltaRho -— 1968

TrusteeJoe Przybyla

Illinois Kappa Phi-— 2001

National PresidentNathan Rues

Missouri Mu-— 2002

UGAC Vice ChairIsaiah Adona*

Washington Alpha Delta -— 2012

* collegiate board member

Growing up as children we’re taught by our leaders to respect authority, be nice to others and keep our hands to ourselves among other things. As we mature we discover that we have choices to make and different paths to take. Many times we choose to take the path many have taken before. Sometimes this may be the easier path. But there are those that choose a different path, one that may be difficult and riddled with challenges. As a fraternity, Phi Kappa Theta has chosen to take the path leading to a stronger organization through Servant Leadership. A difficult path but one we are willing to focus on and persevere towards.

2011 has been a strong year for Phi Kappa Theta. The following stories will show you what we as an organization have been doing to strengthen who we are. Where we have been going is based on the choices we have been making.

The National Convention awarded chapters in various aspects of human development and introduced a stronger focus on Servant Leadership that will help strengthen our mission of actively developing men to be effective leaders. Brother Nick Scalera was honored for his work with at-risk children and was honored as the 2011 Man of Achievement. He serves as a role model to all Phi Kaps. His honor

of this year’s Man of Achievement is a testament to that work.

Phi Kappa Theta pushes forward as a Fraternity of Servant Leaders. We hope this section gives you an idea of how we are striving to be an authority on what service should be. We desire to treat others with respect as human beings and use our collective hands to serve our society, Fraternity and God to the best of our abilities. Through reaching out to others and increasing the number of men we are actively developing, we are able to become more effective servant leaders.

The Path to Servant Leadership

By Keith HarshbargerIUPUI, ‘01

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If you were to ask any fraternity or sorority to state their mission and purpose, you are guaranteed to hear the word leadership in there somewhere. For over a century, the fraternal community has identified itself as having a duty to train, educate and develop their members to be leaders. If you were to research any of these organizations, you would surely find a variety of workshops, seminars, retreats and conferences all focusing on training their brothers and sisters to become leaders. You will also find that these organizations have developed awards and annual banquets honoring their members for their own leadership initiatives and leadership accomplishments.

These statements about our fraternal peers are in no way meant to stereotype our community in a negative manner. In fact, Phi Kappa Theta is described in the exact same manner. This year, we will conduct workshops, hold webinars, facilitate regional conferences and provide written educational materials that all focus on the subject of leadership. We will also recognize those Brothers and chapters for the accomplishments in the area of leadership. This is because leadership and the act of developing leaders is built into the foundation of our existence.

As you will read later in this issue of the Temple, Phi Kappa Theta has even further defined its purpose by committing to a very intentional philosophy of leadership, servant leadership. It is our intent to teach our Brothers that their first priority is to serve others. This leadership philosophy will start at the very top of our Fraternity; our Board Presidents.

Brother Nathan Rues (Missouri S&T, ‘02), who has served on the Fraternity Board of Trustees since 2005, was elected in August to serve as the volunteer

An Interview with Phi Kappa Theta’s PresidentsBy Robert RiggsRPI, ‘02

“The Fraternity’s role is to be the source of education for our Brothers.”—Nathan Rues

President of the National Fraternity through August of 2013. While Brother Stephen Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82), who serves on the National Foundation Board, was recently reelected to serve his second term the volunteer President of the National Foundation. We had the opportunity to sit down with these Presidents to gain their insight on Phi Kappa Theta, how its culture has changed in their time and what we can expect in the future from these servant leaders.

Question: How would you define the relationship between the Fraternity and the Foundation as it pertains to Our Mission?

Brother Rues: The Fraternity’s role is to be the source of education for our Brothers. We must provide the specific programs, events and activities that allow our men to be developed in all five areas of fraternal, intellectual, social, spiritual

and leadership development.

Brother

Hollander: The Foundation’s role in achieving our Mission is to enhance the programs, events and activities that the Fraternity

develops. This is accomplished by providing the essential financial resources required to develop and execute the Fraternity’s programs.

Question: You have both served Phi Kappa Theta for many years on your respective Boards, what have been some of the most significant changes that you have seen in your time?

Brother Rues: As I look at the entire fraternal community, I think many Greek organizations spend a lot of time looking backwards, trying to recapture a past. We had been guilty of the same thing. During my time on the Board, we made the shift to looking ahead and seeing the tremendous opportunities that we have in front of us. Think about it; we have unique access to key developmental years of men. Phi Kappa Theta can serve as a launching pad for life.

Brother Hollander: I can relate to what Nathan is saying. There has been

a gradual culture shift on the Foundation Board as well. For many years, the Foundation’s appeal has been to the loyalty of our alumni. We had relied on their sense of duty to Phi Kappa Theta. Today we want to be able to effectively communicate with our alumni how their donations are directly impact our fellow Brothers. In order to achieve this communication, our Board members have made the commitment to building meaningful connections with our Brothers throughout the country.

Question: What have been some of the most significant accomplishments that the respective Boards have made while you have been serving?

Brother Rues: Clarifying our Mission has been one of the most

Nathan Rues (Missouri S&T, ‘02), President of the National Fraternity.

Steve Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82), President of the National Foundation.

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influential accomplishments. This allowed us to shift our thinking to a much more strategic level. We recognized there was an unmet need and opportunity in human development and that Phi Kappa Theta should be the organization that addresses that need. Being forward thinking has provided us clarity with how to invest our time and our resources in areas that bring us closer to our Vision.

Brother Hollander: For the Foundation, it has been the recruitment of the right alumni to serve on the Foundation Board. While all Board members are passionate about Phi Kappa Theta, our professional careers have not necessarily prepared us to be effective Foundation Board members. However, by recruiting talented Brothers like Jeff Jowdy (University of Georgia, ‘83) and others, we have been able to accelerate our own learning curve. Jeff has brought a wealth of fundraising knowledge and experience to the Board. He has led us through a comprehensive evaluation and created an effective development plan for the Foundation. He has truly been a diamond for the Foundation.

As we continue to recruit talented board members, we are starting to see a resurgence of energy from some of our long standing Board members. This will

allow us to be successful in accomplishing our plan to become a relationship focused Foundation.

Question: Both the Fraternity and the Foundation appear to be on the right track. What are some of the challenges that continue to face Phi Kappa Theta today?

Brother Hollander: I think one of the largest challenges still remains the

perception that many of our alumni have about the Foundation. I can remember even when I was still a collegiate Brother, I thought that the Foundation had unlimited resources and it could do whatever it wanted with those resources. Today, I still think many alumni feel that our Foundation’s resources are much higher than they are and that we are able to support the Fraternity’s educational needs with ease. Directly communicating with more of our alumni will

be the key to helping our Brothers truly understand where the Foundation is today and where our goals are for the future.

Another challenge that we face is with managing the expectations of our own Foundation Board. We have done very well to grow our Board and added a number of new Board members over the last few years. I hope to effectively serve the Foundation by ensuring we continue to evolve our own Board culture at an effective pace.

Brother Rues: I think the Fraternity will also continue to struggle with both perception and tradition. While Phi Kappa Theta’s Vision is to become a human development organization that develops servant leaders, we recognize that this Vision has only been in existence since 2008. This means that there are over 45,000 alumni and nearly 120 years of fraternity tradition that we must connect with in order to be successful in achieving that Vision. As Steve has said, we must effectively communicate with our Brothers to ensure they remain connected to Phi Kappa Theta.

Question: Have you set any individuals goals during your term as president?

Brother Hollander: I want to serve Phi Kappa Theta by strengthening the relationship between the Fraternity and Foundation to ensure we are able best serve our Brotherhood. I also believe that Phi Kappa Theta will greatly benefit from me serving to continue to change the culture of the Foundation from a letter campaign organization to one that develops meaningful relationships with our alumni.

Brother Rues: I believe the Fraternity will be best served if I am able to effectively communicate the Vision of Phi Kappa Theta as a human development organization to the majority of our membership. As I think about my fellow Trustees, my service to them will be focused on accelerating the work recent Boards have done to ensure we are pointed toward our Vision.

Question: Thinking of the organization beyond your own presidencies, what are the short term priorities for Phi Kappa Theta?

Brother Rues: The Fraternity must be the reason our Brothers are becoming effective servant leaders. In order to be successful, we must increase the number of men we are actively developing. Our Regional Leadership Conferences have quickly expanded to directly reach over 10% of our collegiate membership. That number has to grow to 20% in the next two years.

We have to stay focused on executing our long term plan. It is working, but we can’t become satisfied with early success.

“Today we want to be able to effectively communicate with our alumni how their donations are directly impacting our fellow Brothers.”—Stephen Hollander

The old adage “People are your most important asset” turns out to be wrong. People are not your most important asset. The right people are.

— Jim CollinsGood to Great

Phi Kappa Theta actively develops men to be effective leaders who passionately serve society, Fraternity and God.

— Our Mission

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Brother Hollander: Recognizing that Phi Kappa Theta must develop more of its collegiate members will require the Foundation to significantly increase its educational grants to the Fraternity. Therefore, the Foundation must continue to establish the culture of Board members being the leaders in establishing meaningful relationships with our alumni. While an exciting goal, we must recognize that there will be training to ensure Board members are able to connect with our alumni and at the same time communicate Phi Kappa Theta’s educational goals. Our priority must be to ensure our Board functioning in a high capacity of efficiency.

Question: Thinking of the organization beyond your own presidencies, what are the long term priorities for Phi Kappa Theta?

Brother Rues: The Fraternity needs to innovate. That’s not usually a term people associate with fraternities, but we are not going to get where we want to be by copying other groups.

The paradigm shift of a national fraternity being a human development organization rather than a membership

management administration is going to take time and effort. When talking with current collegiate members, I’m excited to hear them starting to make this shift.

Brother Hollander: It must truly be about our Board leaders building strong relationships.

Our long term priority is to grow the Foundation’s resources to the point that we are able to make a real impact on the education of our collegiate Brothers. This can only be done by establishing that culture I have talked about today, one in which our alumni feel that direct connection to Phi Kappa Theta and are engaged in helping us train our Brothers to be true servant leaders.

Question: What role must our alumni take to ensure the success of Phi Kappa Theta?

Brother Rues: Our alumni are a wealth of human capital that we haven’t utilized nearly enough. The Fraternity needs to make it easy for alumni to get involved in our Mission to develop men to be effective leaders who serve. I believe our alumni will respond when they are

shown the roles they can play in the active development of our Brothers. As the number of collegiate members we reach grows, we will need more help.

Brother Hollander: The Fraternity has developed some really outstanding educational programs over the last few years. Anyone who has attended a Leadership Institute or Regional Conference has seen that we have some very talented, bright young men. We have seen the results of our educational programs. They are truly preparing our Brothers to be effective leaders in their communities, society and the workplace. However, we are only able to help a small percentage of our collegiate Brothers attend these programs.

For our alumni to understand that we can educate so many more of our Brothers with their support would make a significant impact on Phi Kappa Theta. The Foundation wants to be the reason our Brothers are able to attend valuable leadership and learning opportunities. We ask that those alumni who are up to the challenge that lies before us join us.

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Often when one thinks of a leader, they think of someone who has servants waiting on them hand and foot. Although that may be the case for some leaders, other leaders rise to their state of prominence through their service and dedication to others. An outstanding example of someone who has risen to prominence through service to others is our very own Nick Scalera, (Seton Hall, ‘63).

Born to an Italian working class family in New Jersey just months prior to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Scalera family stressed the importance of a strong work ethic, religion and helping others. As Nick put it, “my parents had scarce resources but always stressed the value of assisting the less fortunate. We were taught to put money in the basket at Mass on Sundays, to drop a coin or two in the Salvation Army bucket at Christmas time, and to send a dollar to an American Indian orphanage.”

Education was also very important to the Scalera family, and they wanted their son to go to college. Nick chose to attend Seton Hall University not only

because of its emphasis on religious ideals, but also because he could commute from home and forgo the expense of on campus housing. Majoring in social studies, Nick began looking for activities on campus which not only would familiarize him with the campus, but also give him a chance to utilize the principles he learned in class. One such organization that

particularly caught his attention was the local Phi Beta Sigma service fraternity which he decided to join during his sophomore year. The following year, Phi Beta Sigma affiliated with Phi Kappa Theta. According to Nick, what impressed him so much about Phi Kappa

Theta was “that from the outset, it promoted the concepts of lifelong brotherhood and service to others. Its Mission asks Brothers to accept responsibility for all brothers, their communities and society, and to foster human development through community service and social interaction, which are rock solid values.” As an undergraduate, Nick played an active role in the chapter and all of its activities and service projects.

After his graduation from Seton Hall, he went to Columbia University where he

was awarded a Master of Science degree in journalism, and was then hired as a reporter for the Newark Evening News. Following several years in that position, he was hired

as a writer and editor for the Associated Press in Philadelphia. Through his writing, he became increasingly aware of the struggles that many people were having, and felt that he could serve mankind better in other positions. According to Nick, “there’s nothing wrong with wanting your share of the American

Man of AchievementBy Gene NeySlippery Rock, ‘90

“My parents had scarce resources but always stressed the value of assisting the less fortunate.”—Nick Scalera

Nick Scalera pictured at the 2011 Man of Achievement Award Ceremony at the 2011 National Convention in Indianapolis, IN.

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting your share of the American dream – your piece of the economic pie, but there’s much more to life than accumulating material possessions...”—Nick Scalera

Below: Nick Scalera giving his acceptance speech as the 2011 Man of Achievement.

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dream – your piece of the economic pie, but there’s much more to life than accumulating material possessions.”

Using his writing skills, he accepted a position with the New Jersey Office of Economic Opportunity as the public information officer. In this position, he oversaw public information for the state antipoverty agency. Within a year, he was promoted to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs where he became Director of the Office of Public Information. As Director, he oversaw economic opportunities, housing development and local government services to assist the less fortunate. However, it was in his next position as the Director of New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) where he ultimately found his calling. In this role, he oversaw the state’s child protection and family services agency, serving more than 300,000 clients through 3,600 staff members, 1,300 contracts and a $427 million annual budget.

Following 22 years working for DYFS, he served as Director of the Wynona M. Lipman Education and Training Center, Corporate Consultant for the Community Education Centers, and currently serves

as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Scalera Consulting Services, which is a management consulting firm specializing in child care, child welfare, human services and human care licensing. Looking back on his career, Nick states, “make no mistake: helping at-risk youths

isn’t easy. It requires patience, tolerance, understanding and compassion. These kids are tough, street-savvy survivors. Most have been betrayed by adults they trusted so they are reluctant to risk being hurt again. Once you gain their confidence – once you prove you care about them – they will trust

you unconditionally and express their love in the kindest ways. Differences in race, ethnicity, religion and age simply don’t matter to them.” In addition to his work career, Nick has written extensively, and served on numerous philanthropic boards. He also continues to work with at-risk youths and maintains contact with many of

Nick Scalera pictured with Brother Greg Stein (CCNY, ‘70), who introduced him, and Foundation National President, Stephen Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82) after receiving his 2011 Man of Achievement Award sponsored by the Foundation at the National Convention in Indianapolis.

“If you agree to assist just one needy child, you will experience the priceless satisfaction that comes from a simple act of kindness...”—Nick Scalera

those he has worked with in the past.Nick challenges the “millennial

generation” (those at least 18 years old but not yet 30) to become servant leaders. As he put is, “you are the most diverse generation in U.S. history. You are voracious users of new technologies and you are more open to assisting others than were the baby boomers. You can help distinguish your generation by becoming servant leaders.” He also understands that many young adults today may feel frustrated and overwhelmed in that they can’t possibly take on such great altruistic responsibilities. As Nick puts it, “if you agree to assist just one needy child, you will experience the priceless satisfaction that comes from a simple act of kindness. All it takes is the desire to help and the will to make it happen.”

Nick attributes his late parents, Seton Hall University and Phi Kappa Theta “for instilling in me the core beliefs and ideals that defined my life’s work with at-risk children. They inspired me to go beyond the requirements of my job…to seek more than the monetary fruits of my labor… to experience the profound happiness that comes from sharing.” In appreciation of Nick Scalera’s humanitarian efforts and strong allegiance to the ideals of Phi Kappa Theta, he was honored with the 2011 Man of Achievement Award. It is evident that Nick Scalera can serve as a role model to all Phi Kaps.

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Being an influential part of any campus always seems to be the goal of any leadership-oriented student. College students everywhere possess the drive and want to become big men on campus and to be the student who rises above the rest to be a star student. Many students aim at being president of their student government or respected organization. Some find their niche in administration assistant positions and find themselves on several committees to better their campus and institution. For Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity, this seems to be common for many Brothers nationwide. For Joseph Mello, a Brother of Phi Kappa Theta at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, being a proactive force on campus began with our Fraternity.

Since Joseph’s first year at the university, he has become one of the leading men on campus, and he says it all began with Phi Kap. “Phi Kap allowed me to go in so many different directions; I got heavily involved and began taking on many positions culminating with me being Vice President of the Massachusetts Kappa Theta Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta.”

For many college students, networking comes in the form of internships, work study jobs and even local jobs that help students pay off tuition. For Brothers of Phi Kappa Theta, especially Joseph Mello, professional networking is just one of the many perks that are offered when a Brother decides to tap into his resources with the Fraternity. Collegiate Brothers see the Phi Kappa Theta National Office offer training sessions on networking at Leadership Institutes, like the last one held in St. Louis in 2010, and often take the matter lightly. Mello is a prime example that Phi Kappa Theta not only teaches Brothers how to network, but also shows us how to put it into action.

The Phi Kap Path to LeadershipBy John HohensteinBelmont Abbey, ‘12

Mello’s networking within MA Kappa Theta began with an encouragement to come to a recruitment event on campus and is what initially inspired him to become more involved on campus. After the completion of his first year with the Fraternity, a fellow Brother was heavily involved with New Student Orientation on campus and encouraged Joseph to get involved. “That was the beginning of the spiral of my campus leadership,” says Mello. Through orientation, Mello’s leadership network branched out even further, establishing many bonds with staff and administration of the college. From those acquaintances, Mello was encouraged to apply for another student leadership role on campus in the form of the Student Conduct Board, a group of students which are in charge of appealing and making decisions on disciplinary cases on campus.

Soon after the rooting of Mello’s leadership at UMASS Dartmouth, he and another Phi Kap Brother founded an organization on campus called All-Access. Through hard work and dedication, Mello and his cofounder targeted improving handicap

accessibility on campus. “I got involved however I could to influence and better my campus, so I got involved with Student Government.” Mello soon obtained the seat for Commuter Students for Student Government, where his voice became the representative voice for all commuter students at the college.

Now in his senior year, Joseph has certainly found his role on campus. Since his first year at the college, Mello has been a part of ribbon cuttings, seminars, speeches and numerous public speaking opportunities. After two years of being involved on orientation staff, his participation paid off. This past summer, he served as Orientation Coordinator and was in charge of planning orientation with senior administrators as well as training Orientation leaders. Mello is now also the campus’s Greek Coordinator, responsible for overseeing fraternities’ general workings and administrational duties. However, none of these previously mentioned accomplishments amount to the success and pride Mello feels in his position

as newly elected Student Body President. “It has presented me with tremendous opportunities,” says Mello, and those opportunities include being present for the inauguration of the President of University of Massachusetts System, and also being an influential part in the search for a new chancellor for the institution.

The leadership skills and abilities that Joseph is learning during his undergraduate years at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth are certainly invaluable. The time that Mello is taking to develop himself as a leader certainly reflect the

Mission of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity. Let this spotlight serve several purposes to both alumni and collegiate Brothers. For collegiate students, let Joseph’s story inspire us to become more involved outside of Phi Kap. Not only does experience in other areas of campus give us a wide range of experiences, but those experiences also allow us to bring different points of view back to our chapter and increase our efficiency and the leadership abilities of our Brothers.

Stories like Joseph Mello’s show alumni the worth of our Fraternity. It shows alumni exactly what it is that their collegiate Brothers are doing and why it is that they have chosen to stay with the Fraternity. For alumni who have fallen out of touch with Phi Kap, stories like these carry with them the potential to serve as reminders. For many alumni who are not as involved with Phi Kappa Theta, stories of hard work and dedication --that started with the Fraternity-- can help shed light on what leadership abilities and organizational skills past Brothers have learned from Phi Kap and what they have brought to their current businesses and careers as a result of leadership development from Phi Kappa Theta.

Brothers in Phi Kappa Theta like Joseph Mello show all Brothers nationwide what it is that the Fraternity wants for its Brothers: we want to be known as the premier human development organization inspiring confidence through life experiences. Mello shows us that through dedication, hard work and proper networking, Phi Kappa Theta can be just that. In fact, with stories like these, it looks like we are well on our way.

“Phi Kap allowed me to go in so many different directions.”—Joseph Mello

“I got involved however I could to influence and better my campus.”—Joseph Mello

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Talk about a once in a lifetime experience! Dr. Rick Rinehart (Iowa State’87) can usually be found in Des Moines practicing his specialty of Ear, Nose and Throat, or at home with his wife and family. But for three weeks last April, Dr. Rinehart traveled as the medical director with 14 cancer survivors to the base camp of Mount Everest. The trip was organized by Dr. Richard Deming, Director of the Mercy Cancer Center of Des Moines, and a friend of Rick’s. All together there were 30 Iowans in the group, including Charlie Whitmack, a two time Everest summiteer. Additionally, there were 8 Sherpas and 10 porters. About 6,000 people have tried to reach the summit at 29,035 feet above sea level. Less than half make it. The base camp is at an elevation of 17,500 feet and 13 out of the 14 cancer survivors reached their goal.

What kept Rick going when the going got tough? The Fraternity Motto he learned as an associate member of the Iowa Xi chapter at I.S.U. “Give, expecting nothing thereof was the guiding principle that I tried to embody with my service on this trip. This is a phrase that has always stuck with me from my activation and the Phi Kap ideology.”, Rick wrote.

Even getting to the Himalayas isn’t easy. Rick’s party flew from Des Moines to Chicago, then Abu Dhabi in the Persian Gulf and then Kathmandu, Nepal. “A small plane would deposit us a few days later on one of the steepest and shortest runways in the world in the Himalayan village of Lukla (elev. 9,314 ft.) where

By Gregory SteinCCNY, ‘70

our trek began. It would take nine more days of treking through Nepal to reach the base camp of Mount Everest.” Some of the medical obstacles the group had to overcome include high altitude pulmonary edema, bronchitis, fatigue, dehydration and diarrhea. Although the group slept in cabins most of the time, at base camp it was tents. Rick wrote in his journal,” As I lie shivering in my tent and await sleep to overcome me, I can hear the cracking of the

ice of the Khumbu Glacier shifting below me.

Far off I hear the thunder of avalanches high on Everest. We are at an elevation of 17,500 feet here in the base camp and despite our fatigue, sleep comes in spurts. The camp is a chilly barren piece of rock and ice dotted with small tents and fringed with brightly colored prayer flags. It was just another amazing location along our journey,

but it was also our destination. A lump that I can’t clear from my throat forms when I reflect on the courage, strength and effort shown by our team to reach this point. We had finally made it. Rick concludes, “Not only did we immerse ourselves in foreign cultures and had out of this world daily vistas, but we also had mealtime reflections and morning yoga, we shared guitar music with singing and dancing, we bonded as a team to help those who were struggling, and we forged friendships that would last a lifetime. We returned with a renewed appreciation for our lives, our amazing planet and our fellow human beings. We were taught that life is a blessing, adversity can be rewarding and that we should never try to let a moment slip by unlived.”

“Give, expecting nothing thereof was the guiding principle that I tried to embody with my service on this trip.”—Rick Rinehart

Our Motto Reaches the Himalayas

Above: Dr. Rinehart near basecamp with Mt. Everest looming in the background.

Top: Another beautiful day treking up the Khumbu Valley.

By the Numbers

29,035 feetElevation of summit of Mt. Everest

17,600 feetElevation of basecamp

9,314 feetElevation of Lukla Airport

958 feetElevation of Des Moines Airport

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FALL 2011 23

Phi Kappa Theta continues to grow and expand on campuses across the country. This Fall, the Fraternity celebrates the installation of two chapters into Phi Kappa Theta. In late October, over 80 Brothers and guests gathered in Philadelphia to celebrate the re-chartering of the Pennsylvania Iota chapter at Temple University. In mid November we will also be celebrating the Installation of our newest chapter, Massachusetts Zeta at Bridgewater State University. This group has quickly developed into one of our most successful chapters boasting higher grades and better engagement than many organizations on their campus. We are thrilled to be (Re) installing two more chapters who are eager to help live the Mission of Phi Kappa Theta through Servant Leadership. We look forward to watching their continued growth and success for years to come.

In addition to these two groups, we continue to work with our colony at Georgia Southern University. The group is developing well and we anticipate a petition to charter being started within the next six to eight months. Additionally, we were recently contacted by an interest group at Colorado State University. While this is a very new potential opportunity, we are working with the University and the interested men to solidify their ability to

start a colony of Phi Kappa Theta on their campus. We are looking for advisors in the Fort Collins area to assist this potential colony so If you or anybody you know are interested in being involved as a mentor or as a collegiate member of this group, please contact Anita Kerlin. Associate Executive Director of Education and Development at [email protected].

This spring we will begin re-colonization efforts at two major southern institutions, University of Mississippi and the University of Houston. Alumni, University representatives, and the Professional Staff have been working closely together over the last several months to plan for the successful return of these two groups. “Only one southern chapter has been added to Phi

“Only one southern chapter has been added to Phi Kappa Theta’s roster in the last 10 years, so two in one semester, especially at such impressive institutions, is a big step for us.”—Nathan Rues

Expanding PKT in 2012By Anita KerlinAssociate Executive Director ofEducation and Development

Ole Miss alumni gather for their annual alumni weekend this past October. This year they discussed and celebrated their Spring Colonization. photo by John Kent

Kappa Theta’s roster in the last 10 years, so two in one semester, especially at such impressive institutions, is a big step for us,” states Nathan Rues, National President.

Alumni members from both chapters are building advisory Board of Directors to work with the colony as well as finalizing plans for February recruitment. If you or anybody you know are interested in being involved as an advisor or as a collegiate member of either of these groups, please contact Anita Kerlin.

Brothers from the Pennsylvania Iota chapter gather for the rechartering event at Temple University in late October.

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something that I wanted to do for college and for a lifetime. Despite bids from two other fraternities, Phi Kappa Theta attracted me because of its ideals and several of my friends who were also brothers.” Because Jeff joined Phi Kappa Theta during the “twilight years” of his undergraduate experience, he didn’t have enough time to serve in a variety of chapter positions, but his most notable role was that of pledge educator.

After graduation, Jeff continued his education at UGA, earning a master’s degree in Speech Communication, and a second master’s degree in Human Resource

Management from Troy University. Despite graduate school and employment, Jeff continued his involvement with the fraternity, serving on the Georgia Delta Rho Foundation Board and also with its housing corporation. Nationally, Jeff serves Phi Kappa Theta as a board member for the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation whose purpose is to raise and allocate funds to support the Mission of the Fraternity.

As Jeff sees it, the greatest challenges that Phi Kappa Theta faces in this millennium “are to continue to be relevant, to provide increased support to chapters and to provide financial resources (contributed gifts) to make that possible.”

When not volunteering for the Fraternity, Jeff serves as the President of Lighthouse Counsel. His business “consults with nonprofits to help them be more effective” and “our core services include strategic planning, board development, fundraising and communications.” Jeff hopes to bring the knowledge and skills of his business to enhance the operations of the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation.

On reflecting on his involvement with Phi Kappa Theta, Jeff feels that “I have benefited in being part of an organization that reflects and reinforces my values and allows me to serve. It has been wonderful to meet brothers from all over the nation – and become involved in the Foundation and

connect with brothers who for so long have provided such valuable leadership to the fraternity.” It is without doubt that Jeff Jowdy exemplifies the ideals of Phi Kappa Theta.

Born in New Bern, North Carolina, and raised in Athens, Georgia, Jeff Jowdy was taught at an early age not only the importance of God and education, but also helping others. The son of a university professor and the younger of two children, Jeff was taught from an early age to use his talents and abilities not only to help himself, but also those around him.

Growing up, among the things that interested him the most was writing and the study of politics. When the time came for college, Jeff applied to, and was accepted at the University of Georgia. His decision to attend that school was based not only on its reputation for Journalism and Mass Communication, but also by his father who was a professor there. At UGA, Jeff double majored in Journalism and Political Science, with a minor in History.

As a freshman, the idea of joining a fraternity was not a priority for him, so he involved himself in a variety of activities which included the University Union, writing for the student newspaper, Circle K, assisting at the campus radio station, and working with several on campus political campaigns. Through his involvement with all of these organizations, Jeff came in contact with a variety of students; many of whom belonged to fraternities or sororities. After receiving bids from two other fraternities, Jeff accepted a bid from the Georgia Delta Rho Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta, and pledged as an upper classman in the fall of 1982.

According to Jeff, “I picked Phi Kappa Theta with a lifetime perspective – I had been very involved on campus during my earlier years at UGA, but began to realize that being a member of a fraternity was

The Lifetime Commitment of Brother Jeff Jowdy

Phi Kappa Theta by Choice

Jeff Jowdy is a Trustee of the Phi Kappa Theta National Foundation and an involved alumnus of the Georgia Delta Rho Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta.

By Gene NeySlippery Rock, ‘90

“I picked Phi Kappa Theta with a lifetime perspective.”—Jeff Jowdy

“I have benefited in being part of an organization that reflects and reinforces my values and allows me to serve.”—Jeff Jowdy

24 FALL 2011

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To be the premier human development organization that inspires confidence through life experiences. This is the goal we want to achieve, and specifically we want to achieve it by 2018.

While this goal has allowed us to focus our efforts and resources, it has also caused us to raise some questions. What does a human development organization look like? How will we know whether or not we are one? We were essentially looking for a way to measure our progress and in order to do that, we created our own measuring system.

For the first three years, the professional staff created the measuring stick. We did this by setting what we identified as ‘requirements’ for our collegiate Brothers and chapters to complete each year. The requirements were then organized into our five areas of development and became Phi Kappa Theta’s Accreditation Program. Those chapters who were able to meet the requirements set by the staff each year would then be considered ‘accredited’. Accreditation allowed us to capture a great deal of information from our Brothers. The establishment of the Accreditation Program was a great opportunity for Phi Kappa Theta to capture information. We now had a way to know how many Brothers were involved with student organizations, how man community service hours they completed, how many dollars they raise for philanthropy and how many attended workshops, presentations and educational seminars.

As we wrapped the 2010-2011 academic year, we realized that we had successfully established a consistent way for us to capture data. However, we weren’t convinced that the data was

View a recap of our Strategic Plan and the Taskforce weekend on your mobile device.

By Robert RiggsRPI, ‘02

Measuring Stick

the right data. If five hundred of our collegiate Brothers were members of other organizations, did that mean we were becoming a human development organization? If twenty chapters held officer transitions between old and new officers, did that mean we were a human development organization? We came to the conclusion that the answers were no. Knowing that we had to improve, we recognized that we needed help from experts in development and assessment. We also realized that we would benefit from understanding the perspective of individuals we want to develop, our collegiate Brothers. For that reason, Phi Kappa Theta invited collegiate and alumni leaders along with assessment and technical experts in to help us better understand what we should be measuring. For an entire weekend, this taskforce explored how the Fraternity could better measure its progress

in becoming a human development organization.

The taskforce weekend provided some great insight for Phi Kappa Theta. There were several key takeaways we had from the weekend. The

first was that our collegiate Brothers could actually utilize the Accreditation program as a format to set their own developmental goals for the year. Because of this, we developed a resource for chapter to help them set their own goals for each of the five areas of development.

The second takeaway and perhaps the most significant, was that in order to determine whether or not we were developing our Brothers, we must measure what and how much they learn. We want to be able to measure their knowledge, behavior, skills and values over the time they engaged with Phi Kappa Theta.

While we understand that learning is what we want to

measure, we continue to explore how we will go about measuring their learning. For 2011-2012, we have asked our Brothers to reflect on both their developmental goals and their own successes at achieving their goals. At the end of this year, Phi Kappa Theta will also reflect on what we as a Fraternity have learned so we can continue to evolve to meet the needs of our Brothers.

Visit www.phikaps.org/ourmission for the full list of what Phi Kappa Theta will be measuring for 2011-2012.

“The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.”—Benjamin Mays

Learning is acquiring new or modifying existing knowledge, behaviors, skills, values, or preferences and may involve synthesizing different types of information.

Learning to Measure Our Learning

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26 FALL 2011

Michael Ryan-Pattison (“M.R.”) is a handsome and friendly young man. He ran track, played basketball and was the quarterback of his high school football team. M.R.’s world turned upside down as he dove head-first into Lake Chelan in Washington on a beautiful day in May 2005. As soon as his body hit the water, M.R.’s friends immediately knew something was horribly wrong.

There were rocks lurking below the water’s surface, stunting the natural progression of the dive – and his life.

After many months in the hospital, M.R. had this to say: “Going from being a very physically fit, athletic, independent college student in one moment, to being told I will never be able to breathe unassisted, walk or move my arms again in a matter of seconds is a daunting nightmare, not only for the individual but for all those who care for and love you…”

Instead of letting the disability keep him pinned down, M.R. has risen to the incredible challenge of creating purposeful progress. He is the man in charge of The Michael Ryan-Pattison Foundation. He travels the country in hopes of spreading awareness for the cause, and also holds awesome events to raise funds and awareness. M.R.’s foundation is working to establish a state-of-the-art, restorative therapy center in the Seattle area, which would serve the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Once realized, the facility will provide a geographical alternative to the renowned Kennedy Krieger Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore, Maryland. (This is where M.R. received the bulk of treatment).

Ultimately, it is important to note that the star of this article is not M.R., and he is perfectly fine with that. Enter Isaiah Adona, a Phi Kap from Washington State University, currently in his senior year.

Isaiah and M.R. became friends back before college, when Isaiah’s older brother was running around with MR.

M.R. had a gift for athletics and an affinity toward business. Isaiah was beginning to realize his artistic talents. A high school teacher once told Isaiah, “A true artist turns turmoil into something beautiful”.

“During that time,” Isaiah recalled, “I was battling some tough situations, including my mother’s battle with health issues. My mom had always influenced me to do good.”

Isaiah soon got his chance. He chose to hold a silent art auction in honor of M.R., with all proceeds going directly to the Michael Ryan-Pattison Foundation. Isaiah was well organized, preparing for the event almost a year in advance.

Adversity was faced, and challenges mounted. Isaiah still had college courses to attend, homework to complete, and chapter business to keep up with. However, the most striking challenge was remotely planning an event that would take place in Tacoma, a solid five-hour drive from Isaiah’s school in Pullman, WA.

The Brothers in the Washington Alpha Delta house remained supportive of Isaiah’s mission, but the hard work ultimately fell squarely on Isaiah’s shoulders.

“The motto of Phi Kappa Theta”, Isaiah recalled, “remained a consistent influence in helping me continue my efforts when the difficulties of organizing the event rose.”

After Isaiah held multiple meetings with museum directors, The Tacoma Art Museum stepped up and agreed to hold the silent art auction at their beautiful facility, in December 2010. Armed with a location and date, Isaiah moved forward.

The big day finally arrived, and attendance proved strong. As badly as M.R. wanted to be there, it was too difficult at that time to make the trip. However, Jeff Gilchrist, Assistant Director of the Michael Ryan-Pattison Foundation, was more than happy to be present on M.R.’s behalf.

In the silent art auction, Isaiah

presented four of his own artistic photographs, reproduced on wrapped fine-art canvas. All were sold, successfully raising a collective sum of nearly $1,000.

Also available for auction were photo shoots and popular gifts donated from local businesses.

A football autographed by numerous professional football players was provided by Mike Flood, the VP of Community Outreach for the Seattle Seahawks and Sounders Football Club.

He and Seahawks owner Paul Allen are both proud Phi Kaps that hail from the same chapter as Isaiah, and are actively involved in M.R.’s Foundation.

Flood had this to say about Isaiah’s event: “Phi Kappa Theta has consistently fostered the mindset of caring for our Brothers and service to others. Many of our Brothers from the Alpha Delta chapter are devoted to charitable causes.

“Brother Isaiah Adona has embraced the opportunity to help Michael Ryan-Pattison further his mission of restoring hope to those with spinal injuries. M.R. inspires all of us with his positive approach to life and his own example of pursuing dreams despite physical challenges.”

Please visit M.R.’s foundation at www.acureiscoming.org

Phi Kaps Care

By Stephen LeeLewis University, ‘10

All For a Friend

“The motto of Phi Kappa Theta remained a consistent influence in helping me continue my efforts when the difficulties of organizing the event rose.”—Isaiah Adona

PHIKAPS CARE

LANTHROPY

OKO

Isaiah Adona (Washington State, ‘12) at a silent auction held to help restore hope to those with spinal injuries.

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FALL 2011 27

Kevin Bargeron, a sophomore at Temple University and a Brother of the Pennsylvania Iota chapter of Phi Kappa Theta, recently attended a leadership seminar based off of the book The Leadership Challenge. The seminar lasted six weeks and focused on different exemplary practices of effective leadership as discussed in the book by Kouzes and Posner. Attendees discussed how said practices can impact their roles outside their respected organizations as well

as within the Inter-Fraternity Council as a whole. When asked about his experiences, Kevin says that he has acquired a lot of knowledge that he can apply to Phi Kap and has started to look for different ways to lead within the fraternity. “Challenging the current process is a great way to find the flaws within the system and build upon them,” says Kevin. He also stresses encouraging others to step up and take responsibility for the fraternity‘s creativity, as it brings about new ideas that might not be seen otherwise.

Kevin joined the PA Iota Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta in the spring of 2010 in order to become more involved on campus at Temple. After speaking with a few of the Brothers the semester before, he decided that he liked what he saw and pursued his leadership abilities from there. He now serves as the VP of Intellectual

Development for the chapter, as well as an executive board member of Temple’s Interfraternity Council. “I got involved with Greek Life because of what it could bring to me and how I could become a better person along the way.” Upon speaking with Kevin, you can really feel the passion that this Brother has for

Phi Kappa Theta. Kevin is also actively involved with the Air Force ROTC, and

Pennsylvania Phi Kap Accepts the Leadership ChallengeBy John HohensteinBelmont Abbey, ‘12

“Challenging the current process is a great way to find the flaws within the system and build upon them.”—Kevin Bargeron

hopes to use his experiences from Phi Kap, the IFC and other dedications on and off campus to become a role model for students “in hope to set them in the right direction.”

Sometimes, a future Brother finds his own way into greatness and leadership development in Phi Kappa Theta, and Kevin’s story definitely exemplifies just that.

Kevin Bargeron found Kouzes and Posners’ book, The Leadership Challenge, very applicable to Phi Kappa Theta.

Visit www.phikaps.org and click on “Vendors” at thetop then “Clothing - Jester Promotions” to start shopping!Spend $50 or more and get $10 off!Act now while this offer lasts!

At checkout, enter the coupon code: 2011 PHI KAPPA THETA

Apparel & Accessories

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28 FALL 2011

It has been said that life can be full of surprises, but in the case of Shanon Smith (Seton Hall, ‘77), not all of those surprises have been good. A diabetic, Smith recently had a sizable portion of his right leg removed due to poor circulation and gangrene. For those unfamiliar with the disease, diabetes is a group of diseases which are characterized by high blood glucose levels which results from the inability of the body to produce or utilize insulin.

A native of Martinsville, New Jersey, Smith played many sports, and enrolled at Seton Hall University in the fall of 1973 as a physical education major. He had the goal of being the next Tom Landry, an American football player and one of the greatest and most innovative coaches in the NFL. Going to college was the first time that Smith had been away from home for any extended period of time, and the adjustment to dormitory life was a bit of a challenge to him as for many of the men living on his floor. With the guidance of their resident advisor who was a Phi Kap, most of the men living on his floor attended a rush event that fall and 24 of them pledged in the fall of 1973.

By Gene NeySlippery Rock, ‘90

Shanon SmithWhen A Dark Cloud Has A Cardinal Purple and Gold Lining

“I am astounded at the generosity of Phi Kaps. It really exemplifies what brotherhood is all about - giving expecting nothing thereof.”—Shanon Smith

Phi Kappa Theta at Seton Hall University was founded as a service oriented chapter, and still maintains that role on campus today. According to Smith, when he was active “we had a very diverse, yet very close knit chapter. We had everything from athletes to hippies.” As a collegiate Brother, Smith served as chapter historian, associate member educator and actively participated in all of the service projects that the chapter participated in.

When Smith graduated in 1977, it was his dream of going back to his old high school as a teacher and a coach; however the annual salary then was $9,800.00/year. When his best friend and pledge brother Bob Kerr (Seton Hall, ‘77) told him about his father’s Subaru dealership and the need for a parts manager, Smith opted for that job which paid more. In fact, Smith has worked in automobile parts management for nearly 35 years.

With the decline of the economy and automobile sales in the north east, many

dealerships closed and Smith found himself unemployed for the first time in his life. Once again, Bob Kerr contacted him. Kerr, who had moved to Texas some years ago, told Smith that there were more jobs in Texas, and that he should relocate. Smith relocated to Big Spring, Texas, and became the parts manager of the Bob Brock Ford dealership. As Smith put it, “all was going so well in life until

my diabetes flared up.”Smith’s struggles with diabetes have

taken a toll on him physically, but it has had a devastating financial effect on him. Not only has he been unable to work, he had to deplete his entire life savings to cover his medical expenses. When the

Setonian Foundation of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity at Seton Hall University learned of Smith’s struggles, they put out a plea for assistance for Smith. Brother Nick Scalera, Phi Kappa Theta’s 2011 Man of Achievement, spearheaded the fund raising efforts of the Setonian Foundation for Smith. Within days, Smith began receiving financial assistance from Phi Kaps all over the country. According to Smith, “I am astounded at the generosity of Phi Kaps. It really exemplifies what brotherhood is all about - giving expecting nothing thereof.” To date, Phi Kaps have contributed around $4,000 to Smith to help defray his monumental medical expenses.

With the support of his fellow Phi Kaps, two daughters and friends, Smith continues to fight the effects of diabetes. He expects to be fitted with a prosthetic leg after the surgical wounds have fully healed. If you would be interested in helping Shanon Smith, he can be reached at 2515 Langley Drive, Big Spring, Texas 79720, or e-mailed at either [email protected] or [email protected].

Shanon Smith discusses his time with Phi Kappa Theta and his personal battle with diabetes.

THE NEXT ISSUE

REGIONAL CONFERENCES 2012Summary of the 2012 Regional Conferences

LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE 2012 RECAPList of award winners and more from Leadership Institute 2012

AND MUCH MORE!

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FALL 2011 29

NEWS FROM YOU

Jay Moyer (Slippery Rock University, ‘95) is currently serving in the United States Army as part of Operation New Dawn in Iraq under the 53rd Transportation Battalion out of Ft. Eustis, VA. During the course of his assignment, he met Captain Joseph Hollister (Truman State, ‘06), another Brother in Phi Kappa Theta. As the days passed, he and Moyer swapped stories of each others’ lives which enabled them to escape for a bit after working long hours in a harsh environment day after day. If a soldier enjoys nothing else, he or she enjoys a piece of home that connects them with the friends and family they have left behind.

Moyer became a Brother in the Sigma Rho Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta at Slippery Rock University of PA in May, 1993. Joe Hollister attended Truman State University in Kirksville, MO and became a Brother in the Missouri Mu Sigma Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta in December, 2002.

Brothers In Arms

Terrence Payne (Iowa State, ‘94) held a one man show at the Rosalux Gallery in Minneapolis this past April, which attracted hundreds of people. The show was entitled “ My apocalypse will be better than yours”. There were eight large works displayed and many smaller ones. His usual medium is oil pastels on large canvasses, but his works also include silk screen prints and drawings. He paints portraits and still life’s as in the invitation shown. His work has been seen in more than thirty solo and group exhibitions in five states, including the Minneapolis Institute of the Arts last fall. His work can be found in private, corporate and collegiate collections. While getting his art degree at Iowa State, Terry was an active member of the Iowa Xi chapter and now lives in Minneapolis. More information and images of his work are available on his web site and by an internet search of Terrence Payne.

This past May Brother Jim O’Hare (Northern Illinois, ‘66) organized a reunion of Northern Illinois University brothers from 1965 at the Cog Hill Country Club, in Lemont, Illinois. 60 brothers played golf and had dinner. Brothers enjoyed seeing young men in their 20’s eventually become judges, casino operators, university professors, entrepreneurs, teachers and think tank thinkers. But more important than the way they made their living was seeing how they lived. Many of them had quietly gotten involved in various philanthropic efforts. Some worked for the USO. Others had started foundations, or worked as volunteers in their communities. Still others were active with the Red Cross.

One of the Brothers had suggested, via a simple email to those who would be attending, that each person bring a gift for the patients at the Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago. The empty table at the front of the meeting room was overflowing by the end of the night with books, games, puzzles, dolls and other presents. Over 100 gifts were loaded up and delivered to the hospital the next day.

It was surprising for many Brothers that night to find out how much people mean to them, and how strong the bond is that was made with them over 45 years ago. They remembered the magic of fraternity; that one develops a lifelong bond with other young men, and that bond remains strong, no matter how often or how seldom it’s tested. They remembered that the fraternal bond is there for the rest of their lives and that those brothers are there for each other for the rest of their lives… like family.

Artist Has Solo Show in Minneapolis Brothers Reunite in Illinois after 45 Years

Interested in submitting “News From You”? Contact the [email protected] with you stories!

Whether it’s a chance encounter with a brother in a distant country, a reunion or simple news of service, we want to know!

Page 30: The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

Illinois, ‘94), a highly detailed Crest lay in the entry way of the room. After countless hours of hard work and dedication, the room was a success. University officials, family and friends of Dr. Morris were in attendance to see the unveiling of the new formal room.

“Dr. Morris has been the most devoted and empowering advisor that Phi Kappa Theta Illinois Psi has ever had. We have learned so much from him.” He was a pillar of strength. It was because of his skills and dedication as an advisor and a tremendous, giving human being that Phi Kappa Theta Illinois Psi is where it is today. The Illinois Psi chapter hopes that the room will be a reminder of Doc’s teachings and wisdom and will help instill his memory in the hearts of every member. Dr. Morris recently received an award for Excellence

in Undergraduate Teaching from Northern Illinois University.

On Sunday, December 12, 2010 the Phi Kappa Theta family lost a mentor, role model and friend to a four year long battle with cancer. Dr. Michael Morris (“Doc”) was the faculty advisor at Northern Illinois University. Doc touched many lives at the university, especially the men of the Illinois Psi Chapter of Phi Kappa Theta.

Over the past 7 years, the Illinois Psi Chapter was blessed with the privilege of having Dr. Morris as their faculty advisor. He dedicated countless hours and numerous weekends to assist his chapter with its endeavors. Dr. Morris’ assistance is what helped Illinois Psi through and through. “Doc was a great friend and brought a smile to every person that he met,” says Raul Aguilar, current President of the Illinois Psi Alumni Board. As our Chapter Advisor, “Doc has left a great impact on generations of Phi Kaps.” Illinois Psi has had a few advisors come and go, but Dr. Morris has been there for us through thick and thin.

Doc’s commitment and dedication to the Brothers of Phi Kappa Theta was exceptional. He went to great lengths to make Phi Kappa Theta, Illinois Psi the best fraternity on campus. After working a long and tiring day, Dr. Morris always seemed to find time for the Phi Kap Brothers. His dedication, guidance, friendship and

mentorship has allowed Phi Kappa Theta Illinois Psi to become what it is today.

“Dr. Morris gave us the gift of his brilliant mind, as well as a helping hand when needed. The word ‘no’ or ‘that’s impossible‘, did not exist in his vocabulary.” He was always positive and

encouraging. Each week Dr. Morris would gather everyone in the fraternity for a family dinner. In light of the Phi Kappa Theta motto, Doc would always cook exceptional dinners, expecting nothing in return. “The family that eats together, stay’s together” was Dr.

Morris‘ phrase of choice. In order to honor the life and

dedication of Dr. Morris and his time with Phi Kappa Theta, the Illinois Psi chapter held a ribbon cutting ceremony for “Doc’s Formal Room” this past Founder’s Day. Through donations from both alumni and the collegiate Brothers, the room was completely renovated with new tile, furniture, pictures, a flat screen TV and many symbols to honor Dr. Morris. Thanks to Pat Crownhart (Northern

By John HohensteinBelmont Abbey, ‘12

Volunteer Profile

Phi Kap Mentor RememberedFinding the Light of Phi Kappa Theta

Brothers from the Illinois Psi chapter of Northern Illinois University accept the Chapter Mentor Award on behalf of Dr. Michael Morris.

“Doc has left a great impact on generations of Phi Kaps.”—Raul Aguilar

“Dr. Morris has been the most devoted and empowering advisor that Phi Kappa Theta Illinois Psi has ever had.”—Raul Aguilar

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Page 31: The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

Leadership Institute

PHI KAPPA THETAProvidence, RI

2012

August 1-5, 2012

Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel

Registration Opens February 20, 2012

“Back where it all started...”

FALL 2011 31

Page 32: The Temple Journal of Phi Kappa Theta - Fall 2011

FOUNDATION

Dear Brothers,

Phi Kappa Theta has shaped all of our lives. What lessons learned through Phi Kappa Theta guided your success in life?

Our Fraternity needs your help now. Help us continue that lifelong legacy of developing servant leaders among undergraduate brothers. At this very moment, they are experiencing the bonds of Brotherhood, the importance of Ritual, and the meaning of Tradition.

You have the opportunity to directly impact the future of young men across the country. Our collegiate Brothers are growing daily as effective leaders serving our chapters and our Fraternity. As alumni, our belief and investment in the Mission of our Fraternity is vital to the education of our fellow Brothers.

The Phi Kappa Theta Foundation supports essential educational, spiritual and fraternal programs that impact every Chapter and each Brother.

Consider Max Jasper, a 2011 graduate of the University of San Diego who served as chairman of our Undergraduate Advisory Council. Max’s leadership skills were enhanced by his participation in Foundation-sponsored leadership programs.

Through these programs I learned professional skills and chapter management skills. I was able to share

Will you join Max as a donor to the Phi Kappa Theta Foundation? Please consider joining him as a member of the President’s Men ($250 and above). Know that your gift, of any size, is important and deeply appreciated.

As a young man, you made a lifelong commitment to the brotherhood of Phi Kappa Theta. Now, your gift will continue our lasting legacy. Thank you!

In the Bonds,

Steve Hollander (Kansas State, ‘82)

P.S. You’ll find a gift envelope in this issue of the Temple. Please respond today – or go online at phikaps.org and make your gift or gift commitment. Donors are recognized for all gifts made before June 30.

those skills with other chapters, and they made an incredible difference in my life and in the life of our chapter and chapters across the country.

In addition to shaping young men like Max and their chapters, your donation helps train Brothers to serve their communities.

Only months after his graduation, Max made his President’s Men commitment to fund vital programs for future collegiate Brothers. Max, who has launched his career with a major accounting firm, has solidified his legacy of service as an alumnus volunteer.

Perhaps Max says it best: Donations

can go a long way in bringing out one man, two men, three men to another Convention, Leadership Institute or Regional Leadership Conference.

Brothers receive professional, life and leadership skills that benefit both the individual and their Chapter.

Lead by example. Give back. Continue the legacy of Phi Kappa Theta.

Foundation Update

Chapter FundsRegional Alumni EventsIf you would be willing to host a Regional Alumni Event in your city, please contact the Foundation at [email protected]

Visit phikaps.org for information on upcoming Regional Alumni Events

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Your Phi Kappa Theta Foundation was founded in 1954 through the generosity of Brother Paul Galvin (Illinois, ‘14), founder of the Motorola Corporation. Your support of the Foundation is important because it allows the Fraternity to continue to deliver effective educational and development programs to our growing brotherhood.

Annual Support

Gift investments to the annual fund provide vital operational funds that develop servant leaders – benefiting each brother and each chapter. Your annual gift commitment allows the Phi Kappa Theta Foundation to provide support for programs including:

Regional Leadership Conferences

These annual conferences take place throughout the country and are the premier annual educational opportunities for our collegiate Brothers.

Attendees benefit from alumni and staff facilitated workshops focusing on each of our five developmental areas: leadership, intellectual, fraternal, social and spiritual. There is also a special track designed for chapter presidents, with a heavy focus on self-awareness, leadership, and communication.

Leadership Institute

The national Leadership Institute is dedicated to the development and

education of our members. While this event is rich in traditions such as the Ritual Exemplification and the Recognition Banquet, it also provides creative, hands on learning, preparing our Brothers for life after college. The program is held in alternate years and boasts programming in all five developmental areas focusing on personal development and life skills.

Professional Staffing

Implementing quality leadership development requires talented staff. Foundation funding supports the Fraternity’s education director, who works with chapters and their leaders to ensure tailored programs are available in the five areas of development.

Endowment

In addition to annual support for vital educational opportunities, the Foundation also manages the Phi Kappa Theta Foundation Endowment. Endowment accounts are protected, and an annual payout benefits Fraternity programs.

The endowment includes an unrestricted fund, which allows the Foundation and Fraternity to respond to the most pressing needs of the time. The endowment also includes restricted funds, which are earmarked for a specific purpose. This includes funds for the Leadership Institute, Regional Leadership Conferences and the convention – as well as restricted funds for each Chapter.

Gift of $10,000 or above (fulfilled over up to five years) allow the donor to establish a named fund. In addition, donors might benefit and also perpetuate important values by making a planned gift to the Foundation, qualifying for membership in the Second Founders Society.

Investing in Servant Leadership

“Phi Kappa Theta gave me the tools and resources that I needed to succeed in life.”

Athony PrestonFormer Chapter President, Northern Illinois University, ‘10Former Member, Undergraduate Advisory Council

“I now have a vision to guide me in life; to share my experiences with those before and after me, in hopes to inspire passion through leadership.”

Cody BarboSan Diego State University, ’12Chapter PresidentStudent Government President

“Thank you for your gift. Without your support, we wouldn’t be able to send Brothers from chapters to leadership programs. Having every chapter participate is important.”

Max JasperUniversity of San Diego, ‘11Former Chairman, Undergraduate Advisory Committee

Brothers attending the East Central Regional Conference, one of four Regional Conferences held across the country this past Spring sponsored by the Foundation.

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34 FALL 2011

FOUNDATION - Donor Recognition

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Please check one:This is a new address.The addressee is deceased. Date of death:The addressee is no longer at this address.

Name: Chapter of Initiation:

Relatives:If your son is no longer in college and not living at home, please forward his permanent address to: Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity9640 Commerce Drive, Suite 420Carmel, IN 46032

Or e-mail this information to:[email protected]

9640 Commerce Drive, Suite 420Carmel, IN 46032Phone: 317.872.9934Fax: 317.879.1889

Change Service RequestedPrinted in the USA

Deceased members’ names should be entered on the roll of the Chapter Eternal.In case of death, please clip this section and send to: Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity,9640 Commerce DriveSuite 420Carmel, IN 46032

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 115Midland, MI

Graduation Year:

Address:

City/State/Zip:

Home Phone:

E-mail:

I am unable to provide a forwarding address.

Submit updated information from your mobile device right now.

In an effort to better serve our Brothers nationwide and become a greener organization, the Temple Magazine will plant its feet firmer into the internet. Beginning in 2012 the Temple magazine will reduce to one issue per year, eliminating our Spring issue and pushing even more content to the phikaps.org website!

Going DigitalLook for more about this transition in the coming months. If you are interested in going completely digital and only viewing the online version of the Temple Magazine, email the [email protected]