In The News

New Faces, New Responsibilities

Fri, 17 May 2013 14:40:00 GMT

While often times things stay the same, this spring is bringing staff changes to the International Headquarters. Six snaps to the following brothers for their dedication to Phi Gamma Delta.

Todd Rotgers (Minnesota 2011) is coming to Lexington to fill the Director of Education position. Prior to joining the staff, Todd completed his master’s in college student personnel at Western Illinois University. While at Western Illinois, he was a Greek Life graduate assistant in the Office of Student Activities and the house director for Delta Upsilon Fraternity. As an undergraduate, Todd served as Chapter President and held several positions in the Office of Student Affairs at Minnesota.

Field Secretary Josh Moore (Illinois 2011) was appointed to fill the position of Director of Expansion upon the departure of Brett Pytel (Toledo 2009) earlier this month. With the completion of this spring’s expansion at Sam Houston State University, Josh has now participated in four colonization projects. As an undergraduate, he attended 160th and 162nd Ekklesiai, as well as the 2010 Fiji Academy. At his Chi Iota Chapter, he served as Pledge Educator, Philanthropy Chairman, and Chapter President. On campus, Josh was involved in the IFC, Order of Omega, Habitat for Humanity, and received the IFC Greek Man of the Year Award. As Field Secretary #169, he served as a colony specialist.

In January this year, Rob Caudill (Akron 2004) stepped into a new role as Director of Graduate Development on the Headquarters staff. This new Fraternity position includes several responsibilities related to the Graduate Involvement initiative, including graduate chapters, Pig Dinners, chapter communications, reunions and graduating seniors. Two significant additional responsibilities are recruitment of graduate volunteers (in coordination with the Section Chiefs) and graduate volunteer training. Rob served as Director of Education from 2006-2012 and as a Field Secretary from 2004-2006. He graduated with a bachelor’s in biology, and in 2011 completed his master’s in public administration at the University of Kentucky, focusing on nonprofit management.

Bando Selected for College Baseball Hall of Fame

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:50:00 GMT

The College Baseball Hall of Fame in Lubbock, TX, announced its 2013 induction class of two, and one is a Fiji.

Third baseman Sal Bando (Arizona State 1966) led the Sun Devils to two College World Series appearances and was named Most Valuable Player at the 1965 CWS tournament. Following a stellar big league career, he was named to the College World Series Legends Team in 2010.

The College Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place in Lubbock in early July.

Making us proud!

Meyers Carries on PGD's Late Night Tradition

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:53:00 GMT

Seth Meyers (Northwestern 1996) has been named the new host of “Late Night” on NBC. Seth follows in the footsteps of the “King of Late Night” Johnny Carson (Nebraska 1949), who hosted the “Tonight Show” on NBC for 30 years.

Brother Meyers is currently the Head Writer and Weekend Update Host on Saturday Night Live. He will continue in this role until the new Late Night is launched in February of 2014.

Here's the complete story.

Congrats, Seth!

Epsilon Rho Charters at Embry-Riddle

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:50:00 GMT

The Epsilon Rho Chapter was installed April 20, 2013, at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. With the addition of Epsilon Rho, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 126 Chapters and 17 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 48 brothers were pledged initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebration began on the afternoon of Friday, April 19, 2013, with the Evening with the Fijis Reception on a balcony overlooking the Daytona Beach airfield and University flight line. The entire campus community was invited to share in the experience of Phi Gamma Delta officially joining the Greek community at Riddle.

Later that evening, Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975), led the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Then the graduate brothers looked on as the Ritual team pledged the 48 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, April 20, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 48 brothers into the Epsilon Rho Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President William Donayre (Florida International 2014), Chapter Treasurer Daniel Diaz (Florida International 2013), Recording Secretary Tyler Ebner (Central Florida 2015), Corresponding Secretary Roberto Mendoza (Central Florida 2016), Historian Cory Carbone (Central Florida 2013) and the following brothers served as Directors: Cayce Harburg (UCF 2014), Travis Allen (Central Florida 2015), Alex Lorenzo (Central Florida 2015), Jesse Maginnis (Central Florida 2013), Sigfried Bueno (Central Florida 2017), Troy Slinkard (Central Florida 2015), and Mario Arcila (Florida International 2016).

Saturday evening graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering installation banquet and Pig Dinner. Director of Chapter Services JB Goll (Nebraska 2001) served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon Treasurer Porter Robinson (Mississippi State 1975) delivering the keynote address. Legate Bud Mangels (Indiana 1952) followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Corbin McKeon (Embry Riddle 2014) the Epsilon Rho charter. Brother McKeon closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Congratulations to our newest brothers!

Please send your note of congratulations to the Epsilon Rho brothers in care of:

Corbin McKeon, Chapter President
Epsilon Rho of Phi Gamma Delta
600 S. Clyde Morris Drive
Daytona Beach, FL 32114

NIC Releases All-Fraternity Basketball Team

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:24:00 GMT

The North-American Interfraternity Conference has released its annual All-Fraternity All-American Basketball Team. Fijis named to the team include Tim Bass (Hanover 2015), third team, and Jim Crews (Indiana 1976), who was selected to the listing of honorable mention coaches.

The list is made up of players from all NCAA Divisions and the NAIA. Nominations of standout players and coaches came from fraternity headquarters, Greek advisors, sports information directors, Greek alumni and undergraduates.

Here is the complete list.

Congrats, brothers!

Ridgway Leaves Record Gift to U of Evansville

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:23:00 GMT

When Dr. William L. Ridgway (Indiana 1943) passed ad astra on March 8, his estate set a record for the University of Evansville with a $39 million gift, the largest single gift made to UE from an individual or corporation.

Even though he graduated from IU, he adopted the University of Evansville as his alma mater and served as a lifetime trustee. His goal was to ensure that all students attending UE received an outstanding education to prepare them for success after college.

Here is the complete story.

IHQ Welcomes New Field Secretaries

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 14:30:00 GMT

The International Headquarters is pleased to announce the three new Field Secretaries who will be joining our staff for the 2013-14 school year.

Adam Wagner (Ohio State 2013) will serve as the 175th Field Secretary. Adam will graduate in May from the Ohio State University, with a degree in Political Science. A native of Tiffin, Ohio, Brother Wagner served the Omicron Deuteron Chapter as a member of the Rivalry Run Committee, Recruitment Committee, and as Chapter President. He was a delegate to the 37th and 38th Fiji Academies and the 164th Ekklesia. Adam currently serves as an assistant in Senator John Glenn’s office and had previously served as an IFC Vice President, Greek Judicial Board Chairman, and a Student Government assembly member.

Jackson Wood (Georgia 2013) will serve as the 176th Field Secretary. Jackson will graduate in May from the University of Georgia, with a degree in Economics. A native of Dunwoody (Atlanta), Georgia, Jackson served the Kappa Deuteron Chapter on the Awards Committee and as Scholarship Chairman. Jackson was a member of the Ritual team at the Coastal Carolina chartering. On campus, Jackson is a student worker in the Terry College of Business and on the Dean’s List.

Patrick Stenquist (Arizona State 2013) will serve as the 177th Field Secretary. Patrick will graduate in May from Arizona State University, with a degree in Health Sciences/Pre Med. A native of Glendale, Arizona, Patrick served the Alpha Sigma Chapter as Philanthropy Chairman, Pledge Educator, and Recording Secretary. He was a delegate to 164th Ekklesia. On campus Patrick served as an IFC Delegate and then as IFC President.

Welcome aboard, brothers!

Fijiland Welcomes Sam Houston State

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 17:31:00 GMT

The Delta Colony at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, became the ninth Fiji presence throughout the state on March 21 when 21 founding fathers were welcomed into Phi Gamma Delta.

The six-week recruitment effort was led by Field Secretaries Josh Moore (Illinois 2010) and Andrew Griffin (Maryland 2011). The group’s emphasis on academics is already apparent - with a combined 3.24 GPA, they have the highest average GPA of the Greek organizations on campus.

Even though the men come from a variety of backgrounds, majors and interests, they are all leaders on campus. They have served as Orange Keys Ambassadors, residence advisors, and orientation leaders. In addition, several of the founding fathers have led organizations such as Lambda Alpha Epsilon (for criminal justice), Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (for musicians), the Tennis Club, and Collegiate FFA.

Welcome to Fijiland, gentlemen!

Re-chartering Theta Deuteron at OWU for 110th Pig Dinner

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 15:07:00 GMT

The Theta Deuteron Chapter at Ohio Wesleyan University was re-installed March 23, 2013. With the return of Theta Deuteron, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 125 Chapters and 19 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 46 brothers were pledged and 45 were initiated into the Fraternity.

On the afternoon of Friday, March 22, Executive Director Bill Martin led the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, explaining the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Following that, Jack McKinney (Ohio Wesleyan 1954) was installed as Legate. Then Adam Wagner (Ohio State 2013) and Bill Downing (Wittenberg 2015) pledged the 46 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, March 23, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 45 brothers into the Theta Deuteron Chapter. The Ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Director of Chapter Development Josh Laufenberg (Illinois 2008) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Adam Wagner (Ohio State 2013), Chapter Treasurer Bill Downing (Wittenberg 2015), Recording Secretary Josh Kohlschmidt (Ohio State 2014), Corresponding Secretary Anthony Scamaldo (Toledo 2013), and Chapter Historian Jacob Kershner (Toledo 2013). The following brothers served as Directors: Charlie Althizer (Ohio State 2015), Gregory Gernetzke (Wittenberg 2015) and Kelsie Pritchard (Ohio State 2013).

Saturday evening graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering banquet and Frank Norris Pig Dinner, Theta Deuteron’s 110^th. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon Treasurer Porter Robinson (Mississippi State 1975) delivering the keynote address. Ohio Wesleyan was represented by University President Dr. Rock Jones who updated the graduates on the current state of the University and Greek community. Former Archon Presidents Doug Dittrick (Ohio Wesleyan 1954) and Bill Miller (Indiana 1962, Purdue GA 1996) also were on hand to represent the International Fraternity. Legate Jack McKinney followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Ryan Kaplan (Ohio Wesleyan 2015) the Theta Deuteron charter. Brother Kaplan closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Send notes of congratulations to the Theta Deuteron brothers in care of:

Ryan Kaplan, Chapter President
Theta Deuteron of Phi Gamma Delta
HWCC Room 143
61 S. Sandusky Street
Delaware, OH 43015

Sigma Kappa Charters at UConn

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:26:00 GMT

On March 9, the Sigma Kappa Chapter was installed at the University of Connecticut, making 124 Phi Gamma Delta Chapters and 19 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 92 brothers were pledged and 78 were initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebrations began with a curveball from Mother Nature in the form of a late snow storm that cancelled many of the Friday evening festivities. In the spirit of Calvin Coolidge, the men of Sigma Kappa persisted and began Saturday morning by pledging themselves to the International Fraternity. Following the pledging, former Archon President Eugene D. "Buddy" Coté (Maine 1981) was installed as the official Legate for the Chapter.

The three initiation ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Michael Hogan (WPI 2014), Chapter Treasurer Michael Guzman (WPI 2014), Recording Secretary Gordie Folinas (WPI 2013), Corresponding Secretary Edward Terwillinger (Rhode Island 2015), Chapter Historian Paul O’Brien (WPI 2014), with the following brothers serving as Directors: Dan Reagan (Rhode Island 2016), Kevin Walsh (Rhode Island 2013), Tyler Hansen (Rhode Island 2013), John Brunelli (WPI 2011) and James Reese (WPI 2011).

Saturday evening graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering installation banquet. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon President Scott Mikulecky (Colorado 1982) delivering the keynote address. Legate Buddy Coté followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Connor Scott (Connecticut 2014) the Sigma Kappa charter. Brother Scott closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Congratulations to our newest brothers at UConn!

Please send your note of congratulations to the Sigma Kappa brothers in care of:

Connor Scott, Chapter President
Sigma Kappa of Phi Gamma Delta
c/o University of Connecticut
Student Union #315
2110 Hillside Road #3008
Storrs, CT 06269

Twitter CEO Selected Commencement Speaker at UMich

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:59:00 GMT

Dick Costolo (Michigan 1985), CEO of Twitter, will experience what he refers to as "one of life's major moments" on May 4 when he gives the 2013 commencement address in the Big House at the University of Michigan.

Brother Costolo was on the UMich campus in November where he addressed a packed Rackham Auditorium.

Here is the complete story.

Great Press in Oregon

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:53:00 GMT

See the great press coverage (and outstanding photo) our Epsilon Omicron Colony received in the University of Oregon's student newspaper.

Making us proud!

Allegheny Fijis Raise $1,000 for USO

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 20:14:00 GMT

At Allegheny College, our Pi Colony hosted a Valentines Day Fiji Date Auction that raised $1,000 for the USO.

Now our brothers' good works and dedication to service is featured on the USO's website. Here's the full story.

Way to go, gentlemen!

UBC's MacKinnon Selected Provincial Champion

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:01:00 GMT

Enactus Canada, formerly known as Students in Free Enterprise, selected Erik MacKinnon (British Columbia 2013) as 2013 Student Entrepreneur Provincial Champion representing British Columbia.

In addition to being a full-time student, Brother MacKinnon also runs his company, Gravytrain, a Vancouver-based content and copywriting provider for small to medium sized businesses.

He will compete for the Western Regional title against three other students on March 8. Here is the complete story.

Good luck, brother!

Iota Sigma Alive and Well at Indiana State

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:52:00 GMT

The Iota Sigma Chapter was re-installed at Indiana State University on February 16, 2013. With the return of Iota Sigma, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 123 Chapters and 20 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 37 brothers were pledged and 36 were initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebration began on the afternoon of Friday February 15 with Archon President Scott Mikulecky (Colorado State 1982) leading the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Following the Indoctrination School, Don Mighell (Texas 1956) was installed as Legate for the installation. Michael Osborn (DePauw 2013) and Samuel Leist (DePauw 2014) pledged the 38 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, February 16, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 36 brothers into the Iota Sigma Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) with the following brothers serving on the Ritual team: Chapter President Sean Ratkus (Ball State 2014), Chapter Treasurer Kristopher Kaizer (Ball State 2014); Recording Secretary Andrew Siegle (Rose Hulman 2013), Corresponding Secretary Dylan Dunlop (Hanover 2014), and Chapter Historian Benjamin Harsha (DePauw 2015). Also serving as Directors were Adam Barga (Evansville 2014), Dylan Pieri (Ball State 2014), Dylan Stone (Ball State 2015), Jacob Porter (Hanover 2014) and Andrew Ridner (Hanover 2014).

On Saturday evening graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering installation banquet where Director of Chapter Services JB Goll (Nebraska 2001) served as Master of Ceremonies. Archon President Scott Mikulecky delivered the keynote address, and Archon Vice President Mike Lucas (Bradley 1986) and former Archon President Bill Miller (Indiana 1962, Purdue GA) were on hand to represent the International Fraternity. Legate Don Mighell followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Josh Cox (Indiana State 2014) the Iota Sigma Charter. Brother Cox closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Please send notes of congratulations to the Iota Sigma brothers in care of:

Josh Cox, Chapter President
Iota Sigma of Phi Gamma Delta
c/o Joe Weist
2142 Wabash Ave
Terre Haute, IN 47807

Oregon Colonization Brings 52 to Fijiland

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:14:00 GMT

After six weeks of recruiting at the University of Oregon, 52 founding fathers were pledged into Epsilon Omicron Colony on February 7. Coordinating the expansion and recruitment efforts were Brett Pytel (Toledo 2008) and Matt Whitlock (Ball State 2012). This group of academically-focused gentlemen boasts a combined average GPA of 3.24. They hail from all of the country, and world, and are involved across campus in groups including U of O Ambassadors, Student Government, Running Club, Korean Student Association, ROTC, lacrosse team, Eagle Scouts, and scholarship recipients. Some have also achieved high honors with the University.

Spring Recruitment Results

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:12:00 GMT

Congrats to our chapters in the success of their recruiting efforts so far this spring! This list will update as pledges continue to register. (Last updated 4/9/13).

Akron / Alpha Omicron		4
Allegheny / Pi Colony		8
Arizona / Upsilon Alpha		17
Arizona State / Alpha Sigma		11
Ball State / Beta Sigma		5
Baylor / Kappa		21
Bowling Green / Beta Gamma		6
Bucknell / Delta		7
California Berkeley / Delta Xi		10
California Irvine / Iota Chi		9
California Pennsylvania / Chi Rho		11
Case Western Reserve / Xi Deuteron		12
Central Arkansas / Delta Colony		5
Central Florida / Omega Phi		6
Chapman / Omega Chi		12
Chicago / Chi Upsilon		17
Coastal Carolina / Mu Beta		6
Colorado Mines / Gamma Kappa		10
Colorado State / Phi Kappa		5
Columbia / Omega		6
Connecticut / Delta Colony		15
Cornell / Kappa Nu		21
Davidson / Delta Kappa		20
DePaul / Delta Colony		5
DePauw / Lambda		14
East Carolina / Pi Nu		5
Embry-Riddle / Delta Colony		9
Florida International / Sigma Phi		23
Georgia Tech / Gamma Tau		4
Hampden-Sydney / Delta Deuteron		9
Hanover / Tau		16
Illinois / Chi Iota		8
Indiana State / Iota Sigma Colony		4
Iowa / Mu Deuteron		6
Iowa State / Alpha Iota		4
James Madison / Mu Chi		9
Kentucky / Upsilon Kappa		6
Kettering A / Alpha Gamma		7
Knox / Gamma Deuteron		6
Lehigh / Beta Chi		21
Louisiana State / Beta Rho		9
Maryland / Phi Deuteron		20
Massachusetts / Delta Colony		11
Miami / Mu Upsilon		18
Michigan / Alpha Phi		8
Minnesota / Mu Sigma		6
Missouri / Chi Mu		15
Missouri State / Psi Mu		8
Monmouth / Delta Colony		4
New York / Nu Epsilon		11
North Alabama / Phi Upsilon		6
North Carolina State / Nu Sigma		5
North Texas / Nu Tau		7
Northwestern / Phi		13
Nova Southeastern / Delta Colony		4
Ohio Northern / Delta Colony		5
Ohio State / Omicron Deuteron		24
Ohio Wesleyan / Theta Deuteron Colony		10
Oklahoma / Nu Omega		5
Oregon / Epsilon Omicron Colony		49
Pennsylvania / Beta		17
Rowan / Delta Colony		12
Rutgers / Nu Beta Colony		7
Sam Houston State / Delta Colony		19
San Diego / Delta Colony		26
San Diego State / Sigma Delta Colony		8
Sewanee / Gamma Sigma		16
Southern California / Sigma Chi		8
Southern Methodist / Delta Tau		29
Texas A&M / Alpha Mu		10
Toledo / Upsilon Tau		5
Tulane / Tau Upsilon		27
Vanderbilt / Gamma		17
Vermont / Beta Upsilon		5
Virginia / Omicron		19
Virginia Commonwealth / Delta Colony		5
Virginia Tech / Rho Alpha		22
Washington & Lee / Zeta Deuteron		5
Washington State / Pi Mu		5
Western Kentucky / Chi Eta		7
Western Michigan / Kappa Mu Colony		13
Western Ontario / Lambda Omega		15
William Jewell / Zeta Phi		18
Wisconsin / Mu		11
Wittenberg / Sigma		8

To get your chapter's recruitment results added to the list, contact Director of Chapter Services J.B. Goll.

Morehead Finalist for UGA President

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 14:53:00 GMT

Jere Morehead (Georgia Faculty 1988) is a finalist to become president of the University of Georgia. Brother Morehead has won the Durrance Award three times for outstanding Purple Legionnaire. Read the complete story.

NIC Announces All-Fraternity All-American Football Teams

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 17:55:00 GMT

Annually, the North-American Interfraternity Conference compiles a listing of outstanding athletes for seasonal sports.

The following brothers are representing Phi Gamma Delta on the 2012 All-Fraternity All-American football teams:

NCAA Division I FBS & FCS First Team
Deep Snaps: Ben Bredthauer (Texas A&M 2012)

Division I FBS/FCS Honorable Mention Defense
Zach Devaney (San Diego 2014)

Division I FBS/FCS Honorable Mention Specialists
Field Goals/Extra Points: Sean Cobelli (Bucknell 2014)
Punters: Richard Kent (Vanderbilt 2012)
Deep Snappers: Jeff Goyette (Bucknell 2014)

Division I FBS/FCS Honorable Mention Coaches
Bill Snyder (William Jewell 1962) at Kansas State

Here is the complete listing.

Maine Brothers Collect 300 Toys

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 14:06:00 GMT

For the fifth year, Omega Mu brothers at the University of Maine held a toy drive to benefit Crossroads Ministries. With a full chapter house, the Chapter collected approximately 300 toys so that underprivileged children will have a toy to wake up to on Christmas morning.

Thanks for making us proud, brothers!

Nicklaus to Launch Golf Learning Leagues

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 19:47:00 GMT

Jack Nicklaus (Ohio State 1961) will launch Nicklaus Learning Leagues to teach kids the game of golf starting next summer in 2013.

At 300 area parks and recreation centers, Brother Nicklaus will introduce young golfers to a game called SNAG, which stands for Starting New at Golf. It's comprised of a six-hole course set up on a soccer field. The equipment is bigger to help cut down on frustrations for youngsters.

Here is the complete story.

End-of-Semester Reminders

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:40:00 GMT

Here is the last administrative edition of The Friday Letter to help chapter officers as the semester comes to a close.

IN THIS ISSUE
-  Officers Calendar
-  Laws Regulating Elections
- Coming Soon: Insurance Billing
- Register for 2013 Fiji Academy
- Holiday Parties
-  Schedule Spring FS Visit
- Like to Travel?

Be sure to send news and pics for the good news edition that will be distributed 12/14.

FIJI Run Across Virginia Raises $52K

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:56:00 GMT

In the 10th year of the FIJI Run Across Virginia, the Omicron Chapter at the University of Virginia and Rho Alpha at Virginia Tech raised $52,000, a record annual contribution, for the Jimmy V Foundation to support cancer research.

Their 150-mile trek between Charlottesville and Blacksburg, Virginia, took place on Thanksgiving weekend prior to the state rivalry for the Commonwealth Cup. With this year's donation, the chapters have raised $380,000 for the Foundation.

Here is the complete story. Here is the Run's website.

Simply said: Mighty Proud!

Wittenberg Brothers Serve 400 for Thanksgiving

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:42:00 GMT

With a few changes to their annual Thanksgiving meal philanthropy at the chapter house on Monday night, brothers of Sigma Chapter at Wittenberg reached out to the community of Springfield, Ohio.

The result: 400 full bellies.

Here's the complete story.

Way to make us proud, gentlemen!

The Friday Letter - Good News Edition

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 13:34:00 GMT

In the November good news editiion of The Friday Letter you will find:

-  IHQ Video Blog
-  Register Now for the 2013 Fiji Academy
- New Phigam.org Coming Soon!
- Chapter and Colony News
- New Graduate Chapters
-  Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta
-  Expanding the Brotherhood

There are so many great things going on in Phi Gamma Delta right now. If your chapter or colony was not mentioned in The Friday Letter, send your good news and photos to phigam@phigam.org for inclusion in an upcoming edition or in The Phi Gamma Delta magazine.

Thanks, Vets!

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 21:03:00 GMT

Many heartfelt thanks to our brothers who have served or are currently serving in the military protecting us and our freedoms! The International Headquarters acknowledges your faithful service and dedication to protecting us all. On Veterans Day, we are praying for your continued good health and/or safe return to your families.

Your service will always make us proud!

Pence Wins Indiana Statehouse

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:21:00 GMT

Congratulations to current U.S. Congressman Mike Pence (Hanover 1981), who won the gubernatorial election in Indiana on Tuesday. He currently represents Indiana’s sixth district and was first elected to Congress in 2001. While an undergraduate at Hanover, Mike served as Chapter President.

Brother Pence joins a long line of Fiji governors in Indiana including: Henry Smith Lane (Wabash 1867), Thomas Riley Marshall (Wabash 1872), and Frank L. O’Bannon (Indiana 1952).

Here is the full story from the Indianapolis Star.

Continue making us proud!

Kappa Mu Colonizes at Western Michigan

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 12:58:00 GMT

On October 25, Field Secretaries Taylor Herren and Josh Wiseman introduced 21 new founding fathers of the Kappa Mu Colony at the “Evening with the Fijis” reception in the Bernhard Center, where over 60 faculty/staff, students and family members came out to welcome Phi Gamma Delta back to campus.

The founding fathers boast a 3.35 GPA, which make them the top fraternity on campus, with respect to academics. Some of their involvement on campus includes Western Student Association President, president of Student Veterans Associations, WSA Student Senators, Campus Activities Board executive members, Student Orientation staff directors, and Alternative Spring break captains.

Welcome back, WMU!

Nu Beta Returns to Rutgers

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 18:42:00 GMT

On Friday, October 19, Rutgers University welcomed the return of the Nu Beta Colony of Phi Gamma Delta. Originally chartered December 29, 1917, the Nu Beta Chapter has been inactive since 2007.

Thanks to the efforts of Field Secretaries Gabe Camut (James Madison 2011) and Matthew Whitlock (Ball State 2012), 26 men were recruited to form the Colony’s first class.

The founding fathers boast a 3.2 GPA, which ranks in the top three of all fraternities at Rutgers. The men of this group are also heavily involved in other activities on or off campus such as student orientation, Intramurals, student government, Discovery House, Pharmacology Club, Air Force National Guard, Investment Banking Club, Rutgers University Programming Association, “The Medium” newspaper, and Rutgers Radio.

Glad to have you back, Nu Beta!

VCU Newest Star in Virginia

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:12:00 GMT

On October 22, Director of Chapter Development Josh Laufenberg (Illinois 2008) and Field Secretary Russell Ward (Louisiana State 2012) introduced the new founding father class at Virginia Commonwealth University during an “Evening with the Fijis” reception. This event took place at the Campus Commons at VCU with over 100 members of the Greek Community and campus staff welcoming the newest fraternity to VCU.

This strong group of 30 men are committed to leading the Greek Community, their initial GPA is an impressive 3.112, which would rank them second of 13 fraternities on campus. Additionally, they are involved all across campus in organizations like student government, residence hall councils, 2015 Class President, American Marketing Association, Consulting Club, Business Student Ambassadors, Student Alumni Association and many more.

Make our star shine bright at VCU, gentlemen!

Alive at Allegheny

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 19:13:00 GMT

After spending five weeks at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, Phi Gamma Delta has officially returned to campus.

Here is campus coverage of the colonization.

On October 18, Director of Expansion Brett Pytel and Field Secretary Andrew Griffin introduced the new founding father class of gentlemen at the “Evening with the Fijis” reception. This was a formal event that took place in the Tippie Alumni Center where over 150 faculty/staff, students and family members came out to welcome Phi Gamma Delta to campus.

This group is committed to breaking the fraternity stereotype while becoming the role model fraternity at Allegheny. The founding fathers boast a 3.271 GPA, which puts them right at the top with Delta Tau Delta. Some of their involvement on campus includes: Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity, Allegheny Christian Outreach, student government, Jazz Ensemble, Student Athletics Advisory Council, Allegheny College Economics Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, college political groups, Student Art Society, Habitat for Humanity, African Student Association, Advancement of Black Culture, various campus clubs, and varsity athletes.

Welcome to Fijiland, men of Allegheny!

FIJI Feats!

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:43:00 GMT

This edition of The Friday Letter (every third Friday) is designed to spread good news, successes, and ideas in Phi Gamma Delta to all undergraduate brothers and graduate volunteers. Submit your news and photos for inclusion in an upcoming edition.

IN THIS ISSUE
-  IHQ Video Blog
-  Register Now for the 2013 Fiji Academy
- Chapter and Colony News
-  Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta

Colonizing at Ohio Northern

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 14:08:00 GMT

On October 10, 2012, following six weeks of recruiting, 23 men were pledged into Phi Gamma Delta's newest Delta Colony at Ohio Northern University. Coordinating the expansion efforts were Field Secretaries Josh Moore (Illinois 2011) and Derek "Duke" Murphy (Coastal Carolina 2011). Because of the efforts of these gentlemen, some of the top men on Ohio Northern's campus were recruited to become the founding fathers of Phi Gamma Delta on the ONU campus, the first new fraternity in 40 years. Here is campus coverage.

The gentlemen who have been pledged into the newest Delta Colony have a combined 3.61 GPA. This diverse group of young men are involved all around campus in many different ways. The men participate in groups such as the Honors Program, Phi Eta Sigma honorary, Alpha Lambda Delta honorary, Residence Life, Society of Medical Professionals, varsity athletics, and marching band, just to name a few. Many of the colony members have previously been Eagle Scouts, recipients of the highest scholarship awards that Ohio Northern offers, and awarded top academic honors by way of the Dean's List.

The men are pictured at right following their pledging ceremony and all-campus reception, which included members of the Greek community, University officials, and members of ONU's campus who aided in the colonization.

Welcome aboard, Ohio Northern!

Lambda Beta at Cal State Long Beach: 7th California Chapter

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:25:00 GMT

The Lambda Beta Chapter at California State University Long Beach was re-chartered on October 13, 2012. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 46 men were pledged and 34 brothers were initiated into the Fraternity.

Long Beach was originally chartered 22 years earlier on October 12, 1990, making the chartering anniversary that much more special to the Lambda Beta brothers. The chartering of Long Beach also increases the number of chapters in California to seven, along with two colonies in the San Diego area.

The chartering weekend began on the evening of Friday, October 12, with Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975), leading the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organization, and values.

On Saturday, October 13, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 34 brothers into the Lambda Beta Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: President Austin Huffman (Chapman 2013), Treasurer Matthew Webb (Irvine 2013), Recording Secretary John Kostick (Chapman 2013), Corresponding Secretary Ashot Hareyen (Irvine 2014), Historian Ben Burke (Chapman 2014), and Director Patrick Schoenberg (Chapman 2014).

On Saturday evening, graduate brothers, family members, university officials, and the new initiates gathered for the chartering banquet. The Queen’s Salon ballroom on the Queen Mary, the historic ocean liner converted to a hotel, provided a special atmosphere for the celebration. Representing the University were Dr. Jeff Klaus, Associate Vice President for Student Services, and Caitlin Roberts, Assistant Director of Student Life and Development. Executive Director Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon President Scott Mikulecky (Colorado State 1982) delivering the keynote address. Archon Councilor Bruce Pitman (Purdue 1971) was also in attendance. Former Archon Jim Glenny (Idaho 1960) served as Legate, with the important role of unveiling the new charter of Lambda Beta and presenting it to Chapter President Kshamaa Berg (Long Beach 2012). Brother Berg closed the evening with his remarks, which included special recognition to Purple Legionnaire Aemon Fowler (Long Beach 1995).

Congratulations to our new Lambda Beta Brothers!

Please send notes of congratulations to Lambda Beta in care of:

Kshamaa Berg, Chapter President
Lambda Beta of Phi Gamma Delta
4508 Albury Ave
Lakewood, CA 90713

Mu Deuteron Re-charters at Iowa

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 14:53:00 GMT

At the University of Iowa this past weekend, the Mu Deuteron Chapter was re-chartered after re-colonizing in 2009. Mu Deuteron joins Alpha Iota at Iowa State University and Delta Iota at Drake University to become the 3^rd Phi Gam chapter in Iowa. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 44 brothers were pledged and 31brothers were initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebration began on the afternoon of Friday, October 5, 2012, with Archon President Scott Mikulecky (Colorado State 1982) leading the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values.

On Saturday, October 6, 2012, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 31 brothers into the Mu Deuteron Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Paul Dudley (Iowa State 2013), Chapter Treasurer Joseph Gale (Drake 2015), Recording Secretary Ryan Nemethy (Illinois 2014), Corresponding Secretary Derek Huser (Iowa State 2014), Chapter Historian Nick Rogers (Drake 2014), with the following brothers serving as Directors: Matthew Gray (Iowa State 2014), Matthew Josephs (Illinois 2013), Dan Nottke (Drake 2013) and Tim Kigin (Drake 2014).

On Saturday evening, graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering banquet and Pig Dinner. Director of Chapter Services J.B. Goll (Nebraska 2001) served as Master of Ceremonies, with President Mikulecky delivering the keynote address. Archon Councilor Glenn Moor (Texas Tech 1984) was also in attendance representing the Archonate. Legate Bill Baker (Iowa 1977) followed with his own remarks and, then with former Archon Fred Stines (Iowa 1949), delivered into the hands of Chapter President Joseph Berman (Iowa 2013) the Mu Deuteron charter. Brother Berman closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Congratulations to our new Mu Deuteron Brothers!

Please send notes of congratulations to Mu Deuteron in care of:

Joe Berman, Chapter President
Mu Deuteron of Phi Gamma Delta
303 Ellis Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52246

Reminders to Help Your Chapter

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 13:41:00 GMT

The October administrative edition of The Friday Letter is loaded with reminders for officers to help our chapters and colonies.

Here's what you will find in this issue:
- Officers Calendar
- IHQ Approval for Signed Agreements with University
- Chapter Presidents: Risk Mgt Agreement Past Due
- Officer Election Info
- Required Viewing
- Protect Our History & Heritage
- Order Sets Any Time
- Safeguard Your Chapter Property
- Update Chapter Websites
- Tailgating Tips
- Halloween Reminders
- 2011-12 Annual Report

We'll be bragging in the good news edition scheduled for 10/19. Be sure to send in your accomplishments and brothers' achievements!

Phi Gam Progress

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 13:35:00 GMT

Here is the Fraternity's 2011-12 Annual Report that shows the progress Phi Gamma Delta made last year.

Keep the momentum going, brothers, for 2012-13!

Fijiland Success Stories

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:53:00 GMT

Today's first good news edition of The Friday Letter shows our chapters/colonies and brothers are making us as proud as ever!

IN THIS ISSUE
- IHQ Video Blog from J.B. Goll, Director of Chapter Services
- Chapter and Colony News
- 2011-12 Order of Omega Members
- Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta

We're always on the look out for opportunities to brag! Send accomplishments brothers have made or success stories your chapter or colony has experienced to phigam@phigam.org to be included in the next good news edition.

Fall 2012 Recruitment Results

Sat, 15 Sep 2012 14:06:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order: results of fall recruitment are coming in, and it's looking like Phi Gamma Delta is experiencing another semester of success!

To get added to the results list below, report your chapter or colony's recruitment numbers to Director of Chapter Services J.B. Goll. Thanks for your hard work. MIGHTY PROUD!

Akron / Alpha Omicron - 8
Alabama / Theta - 8
Alberta / Epilson alpha - 18
Allegheny / Pi Colony - 16
Appalachian State / Beta Nu - 11
Arizona / Upsilon Alpha - 36
Arizona State / Alpha Sigma - 46
Arkansas / Phi Alpha - 42
Ball State / Beta Sigma - 15
Bowling Green / Beta Gamma - 12
Bradley / Beta Pi - 8
British Columbia / Pi Gamma - 28
Bucknell / Delta - 13
California Berkeley / Delta Xi - 19
California Irvine / Iota Chi - 11
California San Diego / Chi Lambda - 15
California State Long Beach / Lambda Beta - 11
Case Western Reserve / Xi Deuteron - 16
Central Arkansas / Delta Colony - 7
Central Florida / Omega Phi - 25
Chapman / Omega Chi - 22
Coastal Carolina / Mu Beta - 7
College of Charleston / Lambda Chi - 26
Colorado School of Mines / Gamma Kappa - 15
Connecticut / Delta Colony - 17
Delaware / Delta Colony - 9
DePaul / Delta Colony - 10
Drake / Delta Iota - 13
East Carolina / Pi Nu - 9
Embry-Riddle / Delta Colony - 21
Evansville / Epsilon Iota - 6
Florida / Upsilon Phi - 17
Georgia / Kappa Deuteron - 30
Georgia Tech / Gamma Tau - 9
Gettysburg / Xi - 15
Idaho / Mu Iota - 20
Illinois / Chi Iota - 26
Indiana / Zeta - 29
Indiana State / Iota Sigma Colony - 18
Iowa / Mu Deuteron Colony - 13
Iowa State / Alpha Iota - 11
James Madison / Mu Chi - 6
Kansas / Pi Deuteron - 22
Kansas State / Chi Deuteron - 8
Louisiana State / Beta Rho - 38
Maryland / Phi Deuteron - 9
Michigan State / Epsilon Lambda - 19
Mississippi State / Sigma Mu - 20
Missouri / Chi Mu - 21
Missouri State / Psi Mu - 21
Nebraska / Lambda Nu - 34
Nebraska Kearney / Nu Kappa - 10
Nevada Las Vegas / Delta Colony - 7
New Mexico / Alpha Nu - 14
North Alabama / Phi Upsilon - 17
North Carolina / Epsilon - 26
North Carolina State / Nu Sigma - 8
Nova Southeastern / Delta Colony - 17
North Texas / Nu Tau - 18
Ohio Northern / Delta Colony - 23
Ohio State / Omicron Deuteron - 5
Ohio Wesleyan / Theta Deuteron Colony - 6
Oklahoma / Nu Omega - 55 (pictured)
Oklahoma City / Delta Colony - 6
Oklahoma State / Sigma Omicron - 38
Oregon State / Kappa Omicron - 16
Pennsylvania State / Gamma Phi - 8
Rhode Island / Kappa Rho - 14
Rowan / Delta Colony - 10
RPI / Tau Nu - 11
Rutgers / Nu Beta Colony - 14
San Diego State / Sigma Delta Colony - 9
Southern California / Sigma Chi - 9
Tennessee Tech / Theta Tau - 6
Texas / Tau Deuteron - 48
Texas A&M / Alpha Mu - 37
Texas Christian / Tau Chi - 33
Texas Dallas / Tau Delta - 10
Texas Tech / Lambda Tau - 42
Toledo / Upsilon Tau - 14
Union / Chi Colony - 8
Vanderbilt / Gamma - 7
Vermont / Beta Upsilon - 9
Virginia Commonwealth / Delta Colony - 15
Virginia Tech / Rho Alpha - 16
Wabash / Psi - 23
Washington / Sigma Tau - 30
Washington State / Pi Mu - 38
West Virginia / Mu Alpha - 35
Western Kentucky / Chi Eta - 14
Western Ontario / Lambda Omega - 16
William Woods / Kappa Chi - 12
Wittenberg / Sigma - 6

Remembering 9/11

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 19:39:00 GMT

Eleven years after the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, Jay B. Marshall (Syracuse 1984) relives his time on "The Pile" for Fox News.

Here is the complete story.

Thanks, Jay, for making us proud!

Officer Duties for the New Year

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:50:00 GMT

Starting the 2012-13 year off right, here's the first administrative edition of The Friday Letter.

IN THIS ISSUE
- Officers Calendar
- Amendments to Fraternity Laws
- Budgeting for 2012-13
- Required Viewing
- Report Your Service
- Expanding the Influence
- Making Your House Welcoming
- Who to Call @ IHQ

Be sure to send brother and chapter news for the fall issue of The Phi Gamma Delta magazine and the good news Friday Letter slated for 9/21.

Fraternity Receives Award of Excellence

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 20:12:00 GMT

Health Communications, Inc., the providers of the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Program, awarded the 2012 TIPS Award of Excellence to Phi Gamma Delta, the only fraternity to receive the award. This award is chosen by an internal committee based on both volume of students certified and feedback from TIPS Trainers and student participants.

There were nine colleges and universities that received the award in 2012, plus Phi Gamma Delta. According to Adam Chafetz, Health Communication’s President & CEO, “Phi Gamma Delta actively engages its brothers to prevent the misuse of alcohol. TIPS is proud to be one of many approaches that the Fraternity uses.”

Since implementing the TIPS for the University program in 2000, Phi Gamma Delta has certified thousands of brothers
across the nation. Each year, the Fraternity's Field Secretaries become certified as TIPS trainers. In turn, these men provide TIPS for the University classroom sessions at our 144 chapters and colonies across North America.

Kovach Selected as Preseason All-American

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:31:00 GMT

Though football season is just beginning, Kyle Kovach (Rose-Hulman 2013) is already making us proud! Three organizations have him listed as a preseason All-American:

1. First-team preseason All-American honors from USA College Football;
2. Second-team preseason All-American by the D3Senior Classic; and
3. Second-team Beyond College Sports Network Preseason All-American.

Here is the complete story.

2011-12 All Sports Team

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 19:21:00 GMT

Congrats to these brothers who made Phi Gamma Delta's 2011-12 All Sports Team.

Annual Award Winners

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:07:00 GMT

Congratulations to the outstanding chapters, brothers and volunteers who strived to make a stronger Phi Gamma Delta during the 2011-12 academic year. Good luck going into a new year!

BAKER CUP: Awarded for religious, ethical and social service activities.
1st: SIGMA TAU at Washington
2nd: KAPPA DEUTERON at Georgia
3rd: ZETA at Indiana
HM: CHI ETA at Western Kentucky, GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech, OMICRON at Virginia

BRIGHTMAN AWARD: Presented to the most outstanding graduate chapter in the Fraternity.

Over 75 Members
1st: SEATTLE
2nd: WASHINGTON D.C. (National Capital Fijis)
3rd: COLUMBUS, OH
HM: INDIANAPOLIS (Beta); CHICAGO; KANSAS CITY

Under 75 Members
1st: SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
2nd: CHATTANOOGA
3rd: PINEHURST (Golf Capitol)
HM: SALT LAKE CITY; ORLANDO, FL; NASHVILLE, TN;TULSA, OK; AKRON, OH

BRIGHTMAN TROPHY: Presented to the undergraduate chapter which best demonstrates that Phi Gamma Delta is “not for college days alone.”
1st: SIGMA TAU at Washington
2nd: SIGMA OMICRON at Oklahoma State
3rd TIE:KAPPA DEUTERON at Georgia, BETA SIGMA at Ball State
HM: PHI ALPHA at Arkansas, CHI DEUTERON at Kansas State, CHI ETA at Western Kentucky, ALPHA IOTA at Iowa State, GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech, RHO ALPHA at Virginia Tech

CHENEY CUP: Awarded for the greatest all-around efficiency in scholarship, fraternity relationships and general collegiate activities.
1st: KAPPA DEUTERON at Georgia 2nd: SIGMA TAU at the Washington
3rd: GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech
HM: CHI ETA at Western Kentucky, BETA SIGMA at Ball State, ZETA at Indiana

CONDON CUP: Awarded for the greatest overall improvement.
1st: BETA SIGMA at Ball State
2nd: CHI DEUTERON at Kansas State
3rd: ALPHA NU at New Mexico
HM: SIGMA at Wittenberg, GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech, OMEGA PHI at Central Florida

COON PLAQUE: Awarded for the best chapter publication.
1st: CHI ETA at Western Kentucky
2nd: SIGMA TAU at Washington
3rd: SIGMA at Wittenberg
HM: ALPHA IOTA at Iowa State, EPSILON ALPHA at Alberta, KAPPA DEUTERON at Georgia, LAMBDA NU at Nebraska

COULTER CUP: Awarded for service to an undergraduate chapter other than as Purple Legionnaire.
1st: BENJAMIN R. HARPER (Kentucky 1969) for Western Kentucky
Dist. Svc: KIM W. CUNNINGHAM (Oklahoma State 1975) for Oklahoma State, PAUL H. LIND (Purdue 1965) for Colorado State, STANFORD K. MCCOY (DePauw 1993) for DePauw

CROWDER CUP: Presented to the most outstanding faculty advisor.
1st: LOU ANN SIMPSON @ Drake
HM: RAY J. BLANKENSHIP (Kentucky 1984) @ Western Kentucky, TONY MARABLE @ Tennessee Tech

DURRANCE AWARD: Presented to the most outstanding Purple Legionnaire.
1st: ROBERT E. HALL (Kentucky 1968) for North Carolina State
Dist. Svc: PATRICK R. SCOTT (Washington 1994) for Washington, ROBERT V. UNFUG (Colorado State 1977) for Colorado State, KYLE M. BUSH (Tennessee Tech 2008), ERIC D. KNAM (Oklahoma State 1992), JASON S. SCHWARTZ (Central Florida 2003), JEFFERY T. BAYNHAM (Western Kentucky Graduate Initiate)

HAYNES AWARD: Presented to the most outstanding Section Chief.

1st: BRAD WHITING (Washington 1980)
Dist. Svc: BO W. BYERS (Tennessee Tech 2006), TERRY L. MEYERS (Kansas State 1969), A. PETER RIMSANS (Iowa State 1993)

JORDAN BOWL: Awarded for the highest academic achievement.
1st: KAPPA DEUTERON at Georgia
2nd: BETA SIGMA at Ball State
3rd: CHI ETA at Western Kentucky
HM: GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech, NU KAPPA at Nebraska Kearney, SIGMA TAU at Washington, ZETA at Indiana, OMICRON at Virginia

OWEN CUP: Awarded for the greatest improvement in scholarship.
1st: PHI ALPHA at Arkansas
2nd: ALPHA NU at New Mexico
3rd: CHI DEUTERON at Kansas State

WILKINSON AWARD: Presented to the most outstanding senior.
1st: TYLER W. JURY (Western Kentucky 2012)
HM: MICHAEL J. DODD (Arkansas 2012), TIMOTHY M. DREVINS (College of Charleston 2012), BLAINE T. DROZD (Nebraska Kearney 2011), TRAVIS C. HOWARD (Colorado School of Mines 2012), ROBERT D. SINYARD III (Georgia 2011)

ZERMAN TROPHY: Awarded for involvement in student government, the campus newspaper and extracurricular activities.
1st: GAMMA TAU at Georgia Tech
2nd: UPSILON ALPHA at Arizona
3rd: CHI IOTA at Illinois
HM: EPSILON ALPHA at Alberta, NU KAPPA at Nebraska at Kearney

Serving with Courage - 164th Ekklesia

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 16:52:00 GMT

Enjoy the video that welcomed nearly 600 brothers last night to the 164th Ekklesia in New Orleans. The Ekklesia’s focus is “Serving with Courage.”

A group of brothers started the day today with a FIJI Fun Run through the French Quarter at 7 a.m. Another group of brothers ventured into areas still recovering from damage due to Hurricane Katrina to lend assistance to Operation Nehemiah.

Voting delegates are now taking a break from the business session to find out some of this year's award winners during lunch.

Tonight’s special event will be a first:our own Phi Gam parade through the Quarter led by a jazz band with plenty of beads to throw.

2012 NIC All-Fraternity All-American Baseball Teams Announced

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 18:41:00 GMT

Eight Fijis have been selected for the NIC's All-Fraternity All-American Baseball Teams of 2012.

Making the first team outfield is Dan Evatt (Baylor 2012) who was selected regional Most Outstanding Player with a batting average of .329 (52 of 158), 27 runs, eight home runs and 30 RBIs.

Matt Brooks (Hanover 2015) made the third team outfield with a .385 batting average that placed him first in the All-Heartland Conference.

Honorable mentions were awarded to pitchers A.J. Ehrlich (Hanover 2014) and J.T. Miller (Wabash 2014), first baseman Ryan Grau (Hanover 2013), infielder Graham Wolf (Wittenberg 2013), and outfielders Cam Ginder (Hanover 2013) and Kevin Sears (Hanover 2013).

Here is a link to the complete listing.

Thanks for making us proud, brothers!

Fiji Connection to NBA Finals

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 13:15:00 GMT

Clay Bennett, owner of the Oklahoma City Thunder, is a 1981 graduate from the University of Oklahoma. Technically speaking, Brother Bennett is chairman of the ownership group of the team, but as such things are defined in professional sports, he is the owner.

The move of the team from Seattle to Oklahoma City in 2008 was not without controversy, but read what a Seattle area newscaster posted recently about Clay’s performance as owner.

Brother Bennett was recognized as a Distinguished Fiji in 2008.

The Phi Gamma Delta Magazine

Wed, 30 May 2012 15:58:00 GMT

Here is the spring issue of The Phi Gamma Delta.

Cover story:
HOME AGAIN
Mu Iota's Transformation at the University of Idaho

Additional features:
l Distinguished Fiji Award recipients
l 2011 Foundation Report
l Recruitment Chairmen contacts
l Fiji Academy

Click here to read it now.

Illinois Wesleyan Brother Selected for College Football Hall of Fame

Tue, 22 May 2012 18:41:00 GMT

The National Football Foundation has selected Chris Bisaillon (Illinois Wesleyan 1993), wide receiver for the Titans from 1989-92, to the NCAA College Football Hall of Fame 2012 Division Class.

The second Illinois Wesleyan player to enter the College Hall of Fame, Brother Bisaillon was the most accomplished wide receiver in NCAA Division III history.

This year's class will be inducted during the Enshrinement Festival July 20-21 in South Bend, IN.

Here is the complete story.

Good News in Fijiland

Fri, 18 May 2012 15:07:00 GMT

We are wrapping up the semester with the good news edition of The Friday Letter. With another year behind us, there are lots of brothers' and chapters' hard work and accomplishments to showcase.

Here is what is in the last Friday Letter for the 2011-12 school year:

- IHQ Video Blog
- Ekklesia Registration Now Open
- Chapter and Coloy News
- New Career Service Available
- Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta

Please continue to send news and photos to phigam@phigam.org and we will include them in an upcoming edition of The Friday Letter or The Phi Gamma Delta magazine.

Enjoy your summer!

End-of-Semester Reminders

Fri, 11 May 2012 14:14:00 GMT

This is the last administrative edition of The Friday Letter for the 2011-12 school year.

Take a moment to plan for these last minute reminders:

- Nominations for Archonate
- 164th Ekklesia in New Orleans
- Summer Recruitment Training
- Chapter History Due Soon
- Preparing the House for Summer Break
- Send Spring 2012 Grades

Be sure to send brothers' accomplishments and chapter/colony successes for the good news edition.

Fijiland Welcomes Mu Beta

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:42:20 GMT

The Mu Beta Chapter at Coastal Carolina University officially joined Phi Gamma Delta on April 21. With the addition of Mu Beta, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 124 Chapters and 20 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend's ceremonies, 32 brothers were pledged and initiated into the Fraternity.

On Friday, April 20, Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975) conducted the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity's history, organizational chart, and values for the future brothers and pledges. Following the Indoctrination School, Bill Bracewell (Georgia GA 1968) was installed as Legate for the installation. Graduate brothers watched as the Ritual team pledged the 32 men into the Fraternity.

Three initiation ceremonies were held on Saturday, April 21, to initiate the first 32 brothers into the Mu Beta Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Harry Atwall (UNC Wilmington 2013), Chapter Treasurer Alex Henderson (Charleston 2014), Recording Secretary Douglas Flagg (UNC Wilmington 2013), Corresponding Secretary Jackson Wood (Georgia 2013), and Chapter Historian Kevin Arevalo (UNC Wilmington 2014), with the following brothers serving as Directors: Sean Hartness (Charleston 2014), Joe Soria (UNC Wilmington 2014) and Barclay Mitchell (Georgia 2013) who also assisted with the ceremonies.

The chartering installation banquet was held Saturday evening for graduate brothers and the new initiates. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon Vice President Scott Mikulecky (Colorado State 1982) delivering the keynote address. Legate Bill Bracewell followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Nick Cerone the Mu Beta Charter. Brother Cerone closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Welcome to Fijiland, Mu Beta!

Please send your note of congratulations to the Mu Beta brothers in care of:
Nick Cerone, Chapter President
Mu Beta of Phi Gamma Delta

The Friday Letter - Good News Edition

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:01:00 GMT

There are lots of great things going on at our chapters and colonies right now! Whether your chapter just won an award at the Greek Awards Ceremony, particpated in a philanthropy, or volunteered for a great cause, we want to know about it.

Send your news and photos to phigam@phigam.org to see your chapter or colony in the next edition of The Friday Letter.

Miller Sets Strikeout Record at Wabash

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:28:00 GMT

With 17 strikeouts in Saturday's game against Wooster, Psi Chapter President J.T. Miller (Wabash 2014) set a school record for Wabash, surpassing the previous record of 13.

He now leads all pitchers in the North Coast Athletic Conference in wins (4), complete games (3), innings pitched (54.2) and strikeouts (63). Additionally, he has the lowest ERA on the team (1.98).

Here is the complete story.

Thanks for making us proud!

Chapter Officer Reminders

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 12:59:00 GMT

April's administrative edition of The Friday Letter addresses several items that chapter officers will want to take note of.

IN THIS ISSUE
- Officers Calendar
- Nominations for Archonate
- Annual Awards Competition
- Distinguished Fiji Nominations
- Reminders for AFH Exemption Applicants
- Summer Recruitment Training
- Warm Weather Reminders
- Fall 2012 Field Secretary Visits
- Celebrate Founders Day
- Chapter History Due Soon
- IHQ Help with Grad Communications
- Pig Dinner Graduate Attendance
- Best Exiles Toast Competition

The next good news edition is schedued for 4/20. To be sure to get coverage for your chapter or colony and brothers, submit news here.

8 FIJI Chapters in Texas with Tau Delta Chartering

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:25:00 GMT

Phi Gamma Delta's Tau Delta Chapter was installed on March 24at the University of Texas Dallas, making it the eighth FIJI chapter in the state of Texas, joining chapters at Baylor, North Texas, SMU, Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Christian and Texas Tech.

With the addition of Tau Delta, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 123 chapters and 21 Delta Colonies. During the weekend’s ceremonies, 41 brothers were pledged and 36 were initiated into the Fraternity.

On the afternoon of March 23, Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975) led the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, sharing the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Following the Indoctrination School, Mike Morris (Kansas State 1977), president of the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation, was installed as Legate prior to the Ritual team pledging 41 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, March 24, 2012, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 33 brothers of the Tau Delta Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Director of Chapter Development Josh Laufenberg (Illinois 2008) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Vince Stanko (Arkansas 2013), Chapter Treasurer Jonathan Linn (North Texas 2011), Recording Secretary Danny Avila (North Texas 2013), Corresponding Secretary Max Fulton (North Texas 2011), Chapter Historian Dave Harben (Ball State 2004), with the following brothers serving as Directors: Lucas Piedrahita (North Texas 2014), Trey Mitchell (North Texas 2012), Dan Miskin (Arkansas 2013) and Javier Suarez (Arkansas 2013).

At Saturday evening's chartering installation banquet. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Section Chief Orsen Paxton (Texas Arlington 1971) delivering the keynote address. Legate Mike Morris followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Connor Pokorny (Texas Dallas 2012) the Tau Delta charter. Brother Pokorny shared his thoughts on the chapter's future growth and goals with the graduate brothers and new initiates in attendance.

Welcome to Fijiland, Tau Delta!

Please send notes of congratulations to the Tau Delta brothers in care of:
Connor Pokorny, Chapter President
Tau Delta of Phi Gamma Delta

Dan Mangan Claims Two Juno Awards

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:38:00 GMT

At Canada's Juno Awards this weekend (the equivalent of the Grammies in the U.S.), Dan Mangan (British Columbia 2005) brought home two Junos: New Artist of the Year and Alternative Album of the Year for his third album Oh Fortune. He was additionally nominated for Songwriter of the Year and Video of the Year.

Here is the story on his nominations that numbered more than Justin Bieber.

Here is the story on his wins this weekend.

Chi Sigma Charters at Colorado College

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:04:50 GMT

The Chi Sigma Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta was re-installed on March 10 at Colorado College. With the return of Chi Sigma, Phi Gamma Delta grows to 122 Chapters and 22 Delta Colonies. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 36 brothers were pledged and 33 were initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebration began on the afternoon of Friday, March 9, with Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975), leading the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Following the Indoctrination School, Kelly Powers (Colorado College 1984) was installed as Legate for the installation. Then the graduate brothers looked on as the Ritual team pledged the 36 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, two initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 33 brothers into the Chi Sigma Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Javier Manriquez (New Mexico 2012), Chapter Treasurer Greg Mikulecky (Colorado State 2013), Recording Secretary Reyes DeLaCruz (New Mexico 2013), Corresponding Secretary Nate Thompson (Colorado Mines 2014), Chapter Historian Tyler Anderson (Colorado Mines 2013) with the following brothers serving as Directors: Steven Freytag (Colorado Mines 2013), Travis Howard (Colorado Mines 2012), Steven Tzitzicas (Colorado State 2012), Zane Danielson (Colorado State 2013), David Jarry (New Mexico 2012) and Chase Burgett (New Mexico 2013) who also assisted with the ceremonies.

Saturday evening graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered for the chartering installation banquet. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies, with Archon President Jim Hickey (Illinois 1975) delivering the keynote address. Legate Kelly Powers followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Andrew Baird (Colorado College 2012) the Chi Sigma charter. Brother Baird closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

Congratulations to our new Chi Sigma brothers.

Please send your note of congratulations to the new Chi Sigma Chapter in care of:
Andrew Baird, Chapter President
Chi Sigma of Phi Gamma Delta

22nd Colony Established at Central Arkansas

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:16:00 GMT

At the University of Central Arkansas, Phi Gamma Delta is off and running with 22 founding fathers who have a 3.21 combined GPA, which is the highest in IFC on campus. This expansion project was the fourth of the semester and brings the total number of colonies to 22.

During the Evening with the FIJIs reception, many members of the University and Greek communities came out to show their support. Additionally, sororities Delta Zeta and Sigma Sigma Sigma were recognized for the best support during the recruiting phase.

Some of the new members' activities include: Student Activities Board President, Student Orientation staff, Honors College members, Toms Club Founder, house hanager for Reynolds Auditorium, Residence Hall Council President, I.D.E.A.L. Freshman Leadership Program, Philosophy Club Vice President, resident assistant, Gamma Iota Sigma Honors Society, UCA Athletic Training Association, Association of S.T.E.M. Residential College Alumni, Residential College Recruiter, and Chess Club.

Welcome notes may be sent to Colony President Travis Alexander.

Ohio Wesleyan Returns to Fijiland

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:10:01 GMT

On the evening of March 8, 2012, the Theta Deuteron Colony at Ohio Wesleyan University returned to Fijiland with a pledge class of 39 gentlemen. The new members, who already boast a 3.3 GPA, gathered with 170 friends, graduate brothers and supporting sororities in Delaware, OH, for the Evening with the Fijis reception.

Assistant Director of Expansion Brett Pytel (Toledo 2009) and Field Secretary Josh Moore (2011) celebrated the strong response to their recruitment process by honoring each new pledge and officially announcing the re-founding of Phi Gamma Delta on the OWU campus. Some of the members’ activities include:

Economic Management Fellows
Investment Club- President
Marketing Club- Treasurer
Mortar Board Honorary Society
College Republicans Treasurer
Alternative Spring Break
Golf Team
Theatre
WCSA (student gov’t)
- Past Vice President
LaCrosse Team
Soccer Team
Tennis Team
Swim Team
Moot Court
Debate Team
Model UN
Mock Convention
Rock Climbing Club
SOAN Student Board
Chemistry TA
Hospital Volunteer
OWTsiders
JayWalkers
Choral Art Society
Chamber Orchestra and Wind Ensemble
Mu Phi Epsilon and Historian
NAFME – President
Admissions Office Intern
Tour Guide
Ultimate Frisbee
Presidents Club
Life Teen
TAUHEED- Treasurer
International Ambassadors Program
Tutors
OWAC
Rafiki WA Afrika
BMF
The Transcript

Welcome back, Theta Deuteron! Send notes of congratulations to Colony President Paul Hendricks.

C-Span Founder Lamb to Step Down

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:16:34 GMT

Thirty-three years ago today before CNN and ESPN, Brian Lamb (Purdue 1963) launched C-Span (Cable Satellite Public Affairs Network) to air every minute of the proceedings of the United States House of Representatives.

Effective April 1, Brother Lamb will assume the duties of executive chairman of the non-profit cable news organization, allowing his two assistants to take over the daily operations as chief executives. He will, however, continue to host his Sunday night interview program, "Q&A."

Here is the complete story.

Fijiland Good News

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:05:19 GMT

Here is March's good news Friday Letter that's full of success stories from our chapters, colonies and brothers in Fijiland.

IN THIS ISSUE:

-  IHQ Video Blog
-  Phi Gamma Delta Awards Competition
- Chapter and Colony News
-  Gordon Taylor Speckman Memorial Scholarship
-  Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta
- Best Exile's Toast Rendition Competition
-  Not for College Days Alone

To see your chapter/colony or brothers highlighted in the next good news edition slated for 4/20, submit news and photos here.

UMD Fijis Highlighted in Washington Post Slide Show

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:28:08 GMT

Congrats to our Phi Deuteron brothers at the University of Maryland for making the online edition of The Washington Post. Note: even the Immortal Six made this slide show.

Any day there is positive PR about the Greek world is a good day!

Mighty Proud!

Expansion at Embry-Riddle Successful

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:17:00 GMT

On the evening of February 29, 2012, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University became the latest Phi Gamma Delta colony founded with an astounding pledge class of 42 gentlemen. To celebrate, the colony gathered with friends, graduate brothers and supporting sororities in Daytona Beach, FL, for the Evening with the Fijis reception. Field Secretaries Adam Whitten (Texas Arlington 2010) and Brent Wehage (Oregon State 2010) celebrated the strong response to their recruitment process by honoring each new pledge and announcing the official founding of Phi Gamma Delta on the ERAU campus. Following the event, members made their first appearance at Embry Riddle’s Greek Week nightly events, delving them into the activities of the Greek community.

Comprised of honors society members, residential advisors, student athletes, ROTC affiliates, and other campus organization leaders, this colony holds promise and strong representation of the values and mission of gentlemen and Phi Gams alike. Pledged on February 23, the new brothers were entrusted with the duties and opportunity to create a tremendous impact. These men will strive to enrich the Phi Gamma Delta title, concentrating on the goal of creating the strongest fraternity on their campus.

Please send welcome notes to Colony President Ross Malugani.

Fijiland Opportunities & Reminders

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:23:00 GMT

The March administrative Friday Letter is chock full of not only reminders for chapter officers, but also opportunities for action that will promote your chapter or colony.

In this issue:

- Officers Calendar
- Register for Archives Weekend 3.9-11.12
- Nominations for Archonate
- Secret Ballot Procedure
- Alcohol Free Housing Exemption Timeline
- FIJI Island Reminders
- Fall 2012 Field Secretary Visits
- Spring Break Travel
- Affiliation Protocol
- Online Registration for Pig Dinner
- Best Exiles Toast Competition
- Send Your News!

In addition to the good news Friday Letter scheduled for March 16 is also the spring issue of The Phi Gamma Delta magazine. Be sure to send us your chapter/colony successes and brothers' accomplishments.

Another FIJI Flag in Tennessee

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:38:00 GMT

After five weeks of recruiting at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN, Field Secretaries Adam Thomas (North Carolina Wilmington 2010) and Gabe Camut (James Madison 2011) officially welcomed 14 founding fathers into the Delta Colony on Monday, February 27.

Later that evening, the Fraternity unveiled the pledge class to over 100 members of the Austin Peay community during the Evening with the Fijis campus reception. Alpha Gamma Delta was recognized as the Fiji Expansion Challenge winner while Colbey Warfield, Daniel Pitts, Chase Davenport, and Austin Cumberlander were each awarded $250 White Star scholarships.

The Colony boasts a cumulative 3.1 GPA which ranks the group towards the top in the IFC. These gentlemen are involved in the Austin Peay community through various roles such as the Govs Programming Council, residence advisors, Alternative Spring Break Coordinator, The All-State, National Broadcasting Society, ROTC, and Association of Computing Machinery.

To welcome the newest addition to Fijiland, send notes of congratulations to Colony President Colin White.

Spring Recruitment Results

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:51:00 GMT

Congratulations to the following chapters and colonies for their pledge class results so far this spring. If your chapter is not listed, send your recruitment results to Director of Chapter Services J. B. Goll to get your chapter's success added to the listing. (As pledges continue to register, numbers may change.)

Appalachian State / Beta Nu – 7
Arizona / Upsilon Alpha – 10
Arizona State / Alpha Sigma – 13
Arkansas / Phi Alpha – 7
Austin Peay / Delta Colony – 15
Ball State / Beta Sigma – 7
Baylor / Kappa – 15
Calgary / Upsilon Chi – 5
California Berkeley / Delta Xi – 7
California Irvine / Iota Chi – 7
California San Diego / Chi Lambda – 6
California State Long Beach / Lambda Beta Colony – 6
Central Arkansas / Delta Colony – 22
Central Florida / Omega Phi – 10
Chapman / Omega Chi – 13
Chicago / Chi Upsilon – 20
Coastal Carolina / Delta Colony – 7
College of Charleston / Lambda Chi – 9
Colorado / Beta Kappa Colony – 5
Colorado School of Mines / Gamma Kappa – 9
Connecticut / Delta Colony – 19
Cornell / Kappa Nu – 24
Davidson / Delta Kappa – 16
Delaware / Nu Delta – 11
DePaul / Delta Colony – 5
DePauw / Lambda – 25
East Carolina / Pi Nu – 8
Embry Riddle / Delta Colony – 43
Florida International / Sigma Phi – 10
Georgia Tech / Gamma Tau – 5
Hampden-Sydney / Delta Deuteron – 11
Hanover / Tau – 21
Illinois / Chi Iota – 11
James Madison / Mu Chi – 7
Johns Hopkins / Beta Mu – 14
Kansas State / Chi Deuteron – 5
Kettering / Alpha Gamma – 6
Lehigh / Beta Chi – 17
Louisiana State / Beta Rho – 7
Maryland / Phi Deuteron – 22
Miami / Mu Upsilon – 23
Michigan / Alpha Phi – 15
Michigan State / Epsilon Lambda – 14
Minnesota / Mu Sigma – 9
Missouri / Chi Mu – 13
Missouri State / Psi Mu – 6
Nebraska Kearney / Nu Kappa – 5
New Mexico / Alpha Nu – 10
New York / Nu Epsilon – 13
North Alabama / Pi Upsilon – 5
North Carolina Wilmington / Pi Chi – 5
North Texas / Nu Tau – 11
Northwestern / Phi – 14
Ohio State / Omicron Deuteron – 22
Ohio Wesleyan / Theta Deuteron Colony – 22
Oklahoma State / Sigma Omicron – 8
Pennsylvania / Beta – 10
Penn State / Gamma Phi – 8
Richmond / Rho Chi – 6
Rowan / Delta Colony – 6
RPI / Tau Nu – 6
San Diego / Delta Colony – 12
Sewanee / Gamma Sigma – 20
Southern Methodist / Delta Tau – 18
Tennessee Tech / Theta Tau – 9
Texas / Tau Deuteron – 5
Texas A&M / Alpha Mu – 11
Texas Dallas / Delta Colony – 11
Toledo / Upsilon Tau – 6
Toronto / Tau Kappa – 10
Tulane /Tau Upsilon – 27
Vanderbilt / Delta Colony – 5
Vermont / Beta Upsilon – 5
Virginia / Omicron – 26
Virginia Tech / Rho Alpha – 20
Washington & Lee / Zeta Deuteron – 6
Western Kentucky / Chi Eta – 6
Western Ontario / Lambda Omega – 5
William Jewell / Zeta Phi – 25
Wisconsin / Mu – 10
Wittenberg / Sigma – 13

Gamma Chapter Charters at Vanderbilt

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:46:09 GMT

This past weekend on February 25, the Gamma Chapter was installed at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Through the weekend’s ceremonies, 82 brothers were pledged and 79 were initiated into the Fraternity.

The celebration began on the afternoon of Friday, February 24, with Executive Director Bill Martin (Mississippi State 1975), leading the future brothers and pledges through the traditional Indoctrination School, which is a recap of the Fraternity’s history, organizational chart, and values. Following the Indoctrination School, former Archon President Lee Moss (Tennessee 1973) was installed as Legate for the installation. Then the graduate brothers looked on as the Ritual team pledged the 82 men into the Fraternity.

On Saturday, three initiation ceremonies were held to initiate the first 79 brothers into the Gamma Chapter. The ritual ceremonies were conducted under the supervision of Ritualist Ed Gabe (Hanover 1990) and performed by the following brothers: Chapter President Tyler Jury (Western Kentucky 2012); Chapter Treasurer Jessee Lilligren (Tennessee Tech 2013); Recording Secretary Will Scheibe (Tennessee Tech 2013); Corresponding Secretary Bryan Hamman (Evansville 2012); Chapter Historian Tyler Wittmer (Western Kentucky 2012), with the following brothers serving as Directors: Austin Latner (Western Kentucky 2014), Dylan Ward (Western Kentucky 2013), Kevin Ben Harris (Western Kentucky 2014), Ross Pietrzak (Evansville 2012), Drew Elliott (Evansville 2012) and Brennan Girdler (Evansville 2013) also assisted with the ceremonies.

Graduate brothers and the new initiates gathered Saturday evening for the chartering installation banquet. Bill Martin served as Master of Ceremonies with Archon Treasurer Porter Robinson (Mississippi State 1975) delivering the keynote address. Legate Lee Moss followed with his own remarks and then delivered into the hands of Chapter President Reid Harris the Gamma charter. Brother Harris closed the evening by giving his remarks and his vision of the future of the Chapter.

For more information about the history of the original Gamma Chapter in Nashville, see Curator of the Archives Towner Blackstock’s article.

Congratulations to our new Gamma Brothers!

Please send notes of congratulations to the Gamma brothers in care of:

Reid Harris, Chapter President
Gamma Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta

Cunningham Clinches Oscar

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 13:55:00 GMT

Not only is Ed Cunningham (Washington 1991) a college football analyst for ESPN/ABC, he's now an Oscar-winning movie producer as well.

His latest project, Undefeated, won Best Documentary at the Academy Awards last night. It is based upon a Memphis high school football team's struggle to overcome numerous seasons of defeat.

Here is an interview with Ed about producing the film that also includes the movie trailer.

Here is coverage about his accomplishment on USA Today.

Congrats, Brother Cunningham! Mighty Proud!

Good News in Phi Gamma Delta

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:46:00 GMT

The Friday Letter is a publication designed to spread good news, successes, and ideas in Phi Gamma Delta to all undergraduate brothers and graduate volunteers.

The February edition includes:

-  IHQ Video Blog
- Outstanding Academics
- Chapter and Colony News
- Register Now for Archives Weekend
-  Gordon Taylor Speckman Memorial Scholarship
-  Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta
- Best Exile's Toast Rendition Competition
- PGD Songs Now Online

Submit your news and photos for inclusion in an upcoming edition.

Administrative Reminders for Chapter Officers

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:48:00 GMT

The administrative edition of The Friday Letter provides chapter leaders with due dates, reminders and opportunities. In the February edition, here's what you will find:

- Officers Calendar
- Procedures for Amending Constitution & Bylaws
- Nominations for Archonate
- Chapter President’s Risk Mgt Agreement Due
- Secret Ballot Procedure
- No Pools, Ponds, Etc.
- Recruitment Help
- Online Registration for Pig Dinner
- Alcohol Free Housing Exemption Timeline

Remember to submit chapter news and brothers' accomplishments for the good news edition scheduled for Feb.17.

Duma's Study Highlighted on "The View"

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:32:06 GMT

Wilkinson Award Winner Stefan Duma (Tennessee 1995) now heads the Virginia Tech - Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences. He was in the national spotlight this week in an interview with television journalist Stone Phillips whose story "Hard Hits, Hard Numbers: The First Study of Head Impacts in Youth Football" was featured on ABC's "The View."

Here is the whole story.

Thanks for making us proud, Brother Duma!

Former Archon President Jerry Wanek Passes to the Stars

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:56:00 GMT

Jerry Wanek (Iowa 1980), who served as Archon President from 2002 to 2004, passed ad astra on January 25, 2012. The many, many brothers who had the privilege of knowing Jerry during his years of service to the Fraternity join his family in mourning his passing.

Brother Wanek’s leadership in Phi Gamma Delta began as President of the Mu Deuteron Chapter at the University of Iowa. His post-graduate service took him all over the organizational chart of the Fraternity: House Corporation Treasurer at Iowa, Purple Legionnaire and later House Corporation President at Drake, Section Chief, Educational Foundation board member, and Archon for six years. He was elected Archon Secretary in 1998, Archon Vice President in 2000, and Archon President in 2002, retiring from that position at the Atlanta Ekklesia in 2004.

Even as he was giving so much of his time and talent to Phi Gamma Delta, Jerry maintained a successful law practice as a partner of Garten & Wanek in Des Moines, IA. However, his first priority always was his family: his wife, Carolyn, and children Joseph, Topher, and Sophie.

Here is more information about Jerry.

Phi Gamma Delta has lost a brother who gave outstanding service and leadership wherever he was needed and the opportunity presented itself. As a number of brothers have remarked upon hearing this news, he has left us too soon.

MAKING A MEMORIAL GIFT
A memorial gift may be given in Jerry’s name through the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation. Click here to give online. In the Designation dropdown, select Other, and then type “Jerry Wanek” in the Other field.

Or you may send a check payable to Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation; in the memo section of the check write “Jerry Wanek.” Send to:

Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation
PO Box 4599
Lexington KY 40544-4599

All gifts to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation are tax-deductible.

Schiano to Lead Tampa Bay Bucs

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:39:00 GMT

On Friday, January 27, Greg Schiano (Bucknell 1988) was announced as the new head coach to lead the NFL's Tampa Bay Bucaneers.

Brother Schiano, who has served as head coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights for the past 11 years, had previously coached in the NFL as an assistant coach for the Chicago Bears from 1996-98.

Here is the complete story.

Fijiland Good News

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:33:52 GMT

Our chapters and brothers continually achieve success! Read the latest in the January 2012 Friday Letter - Good News edition. Highlights include:

- IHQ Video Blog
- Chapter and Colony News
- Outstanding Academics
- Shining Stars of Phi Gamma Delta
- NYC Housing

To be included in the next Good News edition and the spring 2012 issue of The Phi Gamma Delta magazine, send news and photos to phigam@phigam.org.

NIC Announces 2012 All-American Football Teams

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:19:00 GMT

The North-American Interfraternity Conference recently announced its All-American Football Team that is divided into first teams and honorable mentions for NCAA Division I FBS/FCS and NCAA Divisions II-III/NAIA. Nominations are submitted by fraternity headquarters, Greek advisors and sports information directors.

Listed below are Phi Gam brothers who made the teams.

Division I FBS/FCS Specialists FIRST TEAM
Deep Snaps: Ben Bredthauer (Texas A&M 2012)

Division I FBS/FCS Offense HONORABLE MENTION
Receivers: Frank DeNick (Bucknell 2012)

Division I FBS/FCS Defense HONORABLE MENTION
Linebackers: Tim Bolte (Bucknell 2012)
Sean Rafferty (Bucknell 2012)
Backs: Will Lowery (Alabama 2012)

Division I FBS/FCS Specialists HONORABLE MENTION
Punters: Jimmy Howell (Virginia 2012)
Richard Kent (Vanderbilt 2012)
Deep Snappers: Brendan Lopez (Washington 2012)

NCAA FBS/FCS HONORABLE MENTION Head Coaches
Greg Schiano (Rutgers 1988) at Rutgers
Bill Snyder (William Jewell 1962) at Kansas State

Division II/III-NAIA FIRST TEAM Offense
Running Back: Kyle Kovach (Rose-Hulman 2013)
Lineman: Jeff Ketchum (Rose-Hulman 2012)

Division II/III-NAIA FIRST TEAM Defense
Linebacker: Danny Polaneczky (Chicago 2012)
Back: Rory Mannering (Hanover (2012)
Scott Wenzel (Illinois Wesleyan 2012)

Division II/III-NAIA FIRST TEAM Specialists
Punter: Jeff Sauer (Chicago 2013)

Divisions II/III-NAIA Offense HONORABLE MENTION
Quarterbacks: C .J. Croft (Hanover 2012)
Mitch Snyder (Rose-Hulman 2013)
Running Backs: Francis Adarkwa (Chicago 2012)

Divisions II/III-NAIA Defense HONORABLE MENTION
Linemen: Matt Sargent (Chicago 2012)
Backs: Emmet Carrier (Chicago 2012)

Divisions II/III-NAIA Specialists HONORABLE MENTION
Kickers: Nick Schneider (Rose-Hulman 2012)
Returns: Kyle Kovach (Rose-Hulman 2013)

Congrats, brothers! Continue to make us proud!

Here is the complete listing.

Kyle Kovach (Rose-Hulman 2013) Earns All-American Honors

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:45:30 GMT

Kyle Kovach (Rose-Hulman 2013) is the first Fightin' Engineer football player since 1958 to earn All-American honors from the Associated Press.

SI.com (Sports Illustrated) and the Associated Press selected Brother Kovach as the third-team all-purpose player for the Little All-America Team which features the nation's best players at the NCAA Division II, III and NAIA levels.

Congrats, Kyle. Thanks for making us proud!

Here is the complete story.

Chapter Officers: Start the Year off Right

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:48:00 GMT

This administrative edition of The Friday Letter addresses several topics to help chapter officers get 2012 started right.

In this issue:
-  Officers Calendar
-  Procedures for Amending Constitution & Bylaws
-  Coming Soon: Insurance Billing
-  Secret Ballot Procedure
-  Required Viewing
-  Submit Fall 2011 Grades
-  Alcohol Free Housing Exemption Timeline
-  Report Your Service
-  Who to Call at IHQ
-  Checklist for Success
-  Miami Chapter Seeks Live-in Advisor
-  Help Available for Pig Dinner
-  Academy Resources

Be sure to submit news and photos about brothers' achievements and chapter successes for the good news edition scheduled for 1/20/2012.

Record-breaking Attendance at 37th Fiji Academy

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:26:00 GMT

Over 600 Fiji leaders, including graduate volunteers, are in St. Louis this weekend at the Marriott Union Station for the 37th Fiji Academy, where they are learning to "Lead with Courage."

As brothers arrived early Friday afternoon, they had the choice of two educational blocks that included sessions on Selling Yourself – Where Does Phi Gamma Delta Fit on My Resume; Personal Finance Basics; Generating Results from Scholarship Programs; Networking 101 – Making the Most of Your Fraternity Connections; Basics of Investing; Telling Our Scholarship Story; Fraternity Awards 101; and Leadership in Action, based on Taking the Lead When You are in Charge developed by Ken Blanchard (Cornell 1961). Before dinner, brothers gathered to exchange their various t-shirts.

Ben Little (NYU 2011), who received the Wilkinson Award as Phi Gamma Delta's most outstanding senior, was the keynote speaker for the Opening Leadership Dinner. Here is his speech. Following the dinner, a Model Initiation ceremony was performed, while colony brothers attended their own educational session. Friday evening's entertainment was the annual Fiji Poker Tournament.

On Saturday, brothers started the day with a hot breakfast before the opening session on "The Science of Smart Decisions" featuring Dr. Jeff Belkora of the University of California, San Francisco faculty. Throughout the day, individual tracks were offered for all cabinet positions, including Recruitment Chairmen and Pledge Educators.

During lunch, Jeff Fettig (Indiana 1979), chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation, will take the podium for the Lessons in Leadership address.

After the evening's Pig Dinner where Archon President Jim Hickey (Illinois 1975) will address the group, brothers willl head to Scottrade Center for NHL hockey between the St. Louis Blues and the Colorado Avalanche.