Laurel
the
Winter 2011
o f P h i K a ppa Tau
phi taus recount their memories more than 10 years later
Conclave
the
Phi
attendees
Kappa
Tau
talk
in
Executive
Offices Centennial Gardens on
the Bridge of Understanding
(dedicated in memory of Edward
C. Leemon, Ole Miss ’98). Learn more
about the Fraternity’s inaugural
Conclave on pages 16-23.
Contents
The Laurel
3
Winter 2011 VOL. 99, NO. 2
Editor-in-Chief
Lane S Baldwin
Copy Editor
John Sayers, Bethany ’78
Graphic Designer
Stacey Castle
About The Laurel
The Laurel is the exoteric publication of the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation.
Published prior to 1919 as SIDELIGHTS, a journal devoted to topics
related to higher education involving college and alumni interests, The
Laurel is now published regularly under the direction and authority of the
Board of Trustees of the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation.
The next issue of The Laurel will be Vol. 100, No. 1 and will be published
in the summer of 2011.
Printed in the USA | ISSN Number: 0023-8996
Printed by The Watkins Printing Company, Columbus, Ohio.
Address Changes
Visit www.phikappatau.org and choose “Update Your Information” or call
800-PKT-1906 or mail changes to: Phi Kappa Tau, 5221 Morning Sun Road,
Oxford OH 45056 or e-mail Cindy Morgan at cmorgan@phikappatau.org
Features
8 Men of Character Programs
A look at the Fraternity’s 2011-12 education programs.
10 Past Foundation Chairman Shares the World in New Book
The former advertising executive examines his Phi Tau experience and
leadership development.
16 Conclave in Review
A look at the Fraternity’s new biennial summer event.
24 Leadership Academy Recap
A look at the Fraternity’s second annual Academy.
Insert
Remembering 9/11
Phi Taus recount their memories more than 10 years later.
Member
Fraternity Communications Association
This Laurel is printed on 100-percent recycled paper and
fits the Forest Stewardship Council’s requirements for
environmentally mindful publications.
Departments
4
Directory
5
Perspectives
6
New & Noteworthy
13 We Are PKT
26 Chapter Eternal
28 Our Chapters
30 Laurels
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Phi Kappa Tau
4
The mission of Phi Kappa Tau
is to champion a lifelong
commitment to brotherhood,
learning, ethical leadership and
exemplary character.
The vision of Phi Kappa Tau is to be
recognized as a leadership
organization that binds men together
and challenges them to improve their
campuses and the world.
FRATERNITY
NATIONAL COUNCIL
National President
Gregory M Heilmeier, Bethany ’86
National Vice President
Stephan M Nelson, Southern Mississippi ’73
Chief Executive Officer
*Steve Hartman, Muskingum ’89
Joshua J Bleidt, Eastern Kentucky ’96
Michael D Dovilla, Baldwin-Wallace ’94
Wesley R Fugate, Centre ’99
J Kenneth Loewen Jr, Colorado ’80
Sean J McManus, East Carolina ’94
David A Ruckman, Ohio State ’62
Scott G Stewart, Nebraska-Kearney ’69
Cliff D Unger, Arizona ’98
undergraduate
advisory board
President: Steven E Binzel, Case Western ’08
VICE PRESIDENT: Philip Frandina, RIT ’08
AJ Broderick, RIT ’11
Manuel A Davila-Molina, Cornell ’09
Michael Disotell, Westminster ’08
Jason M Lustig, Cornell ’08
Matthew Marone, Florida State ’08
Trey Pippin, Louisville ’09
Jack Van Bibber, Mount Union ’10
Tyler Vienot, Saginaw Valley State ’09
NATIONAL ADVISORS
Chief financial officer/treasurer: David N Bauer, Bethany ’83
chief learning officer: Thomas A Jeswald, Ohio ’63
Recruitment/retention: Michael T Gabhart, Georgetown ’95
Ritualist/Chaplain: Fr. Nicholas R A Rachford, Cincinnati ’64
SERVICE: Matthew Parker, Evansville ’93
National Advisors are ex-officio, non-voting members of the National Council.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
FOUNDATION
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
EXECUTIVE OFFICES STAFF
(800) PKT-1906
Chief Executive Officer
Steve Hartman, Muskingum ’89
shartman@phikappatau.org
x239
Director of Chapter Services
Tim Hudson, Truman State ’97
thudson@phikappatau.org
x231
Director of EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
Sarah Rochford
srochford@phikappatau.org
x236
Finance Coordinator
Lisa Adams
ladams@phikappatau.org
x232
communication coordinator
Lane S Baldwin
lshetzer@phikappatau.org
x234
coordinator of volunteer development
Tyler Wash, Georgetown ’06
twash@phikappatau.org
x271
volunteer development consultant
Marty Dunning, Kentucky ’07
mdunning@phikappatau.org
x228
resource and development coordinator
Ray Sophie, Southern Illinois ’08
rsophie@phikappatau.org
x223
resource and expansion consultant
Jason Sweet, Saginaw Valley State ’09
jsweet@phikappatau.org
x221
expansion coordinator
Alex Koehler, Mount Union ’07
akoehler@phikappatau.org
x233
expansion consultant
Matt Marone, Florida State ’08
mmarone@phikappatau.org
x240
PROGRAMming COORDINATOR
Dustin Brown, Georgetown’05
dbrown@phikappatau.org
x222
Executive Assistant
Cindy Morgan
cmorgan@phikappatau.org
x237
Administrative Assistant-Chapter Services
Lori Foister
lfoister@phikappatau.org
x226
Administrative assistant-foundation Angie Van Winkle
avanwinkle@phikappatau.org
x224
Chairman
David A Ruckman, Ohio State ’62
first Vice Chairman
Scott G Stewart, Nebraska-Kearney ’69
SECOND Vice Chairman
Bill Fisher, Miami ’80
Treasurer
Brian T Hardy, Westminster ’93
Secretary
James S Hamilton, Ohio State ’63
William G Braund, Westminster ’54
Steve W Chaddick, Georgia Tech ’70
John M Green, Nebraska Wesleyan ’60
*Steve Hartman, Muskingum ’89
Reza Hashampour, Georgetown ’82
Gregory M Heilmeier, Bethany ’86
Joseph J McCann Jr, Spring Hill ’74
Richard F Michael, Michigan Tech ’70
Stephan M Nelson, Southern Mississippi ’73
Ross E Roeder, Michigan State ’58
Brent W Vickery, Texas-Austin ’81
*non-voting
DISTINGUISHED TRUSTEES
Jack L Bartholomew, Ohio State ’55
Raymond A Bichimer, Ohio State ’53
Mark M Boyd, Miami ’71
Norman W Brown, Ohio State ’50
Gerald G Carlton Jr, Ohio ’58
Melvin Dettra, Ohio State ’45
F Fred Fether, Bowling Green ’51
Lawrence L Fisher, Ohio State ’60
Hugh C Fowler, Colorado ’45
John D Good, Ohio ’47
Jim K Heilmeier, Kent State ’47
Theodore A Hendricks, Bowling Green ’59
Gregory M Hollen, Maryland ’75
Dan L Huffer, Ohio State ’57
David W Lawrence, Miami ’61
Robert Leatherman, Akron ’60
James C McAtee, Ohio ’65
F L Mac McKinley, Oklahoma State ’51
Frederick E Mills, Ohio State ’66
Donald J Phillips II, Texas-Austin ’82
Fr. Nicholas R A Rachford, Cincinnati ’64
Joel S Rudy, Bethany ’60
Timothy F Smith, Bowling Green ’62
Donald E Snyder Sr, Cornell ’49
Carl D Vance, Miami ’67
Graydon D Webb, Ohio State ’69
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Perspectives
History Matters
5
A
lthough we still have a “news” section in the Laurel, most of our metaphorical news horses
have left their horse barns way before they prance to you through the plodding process of
writing, editing, designing, printing and mailing. In the time that it’s taken you to read this
paragraph, someone has likely already delivered to you breaking news about a friend or
family member via Twitter, Facebook, or e-mail.
While The Laurel’s ability to deliver “news” has certainly been marginalized by the modern era of
communication, it has presented us with a unique opportunity to provide our readers with information
and commentary that doesn’t necessarily depend upon a more immediate news cycle. To that point, we
hope you will find interesting the special insert in this Laurel regarding 9/11. Because The Laurel is
not a vehicle that requires us to “break” a story, we have the latitude (perhaps even the responsibility) to
provide what most news sources today do not—historical context and perspective.
Ironically, there are certain events that are actually undersold even by applying the grand acclaim of
defining an era; these events actually shape the attitudes and belief structures for generations. It’s an
inertia that rarely meets an opposing force. Likewise, the attitudes and beliefs shaped by these events
rarely ask for validation. Perhaps they don’t need either forces or validation. They are institutionalized
and perpetuated.
For 9/11, there will be volumes written upon current volumes. There is geopolitical discourse, there are
religious undertones, and there is the grave impact on families and villages. It covers a wide spectrum,
from the minor annoyance of TSA at the airport to the sorrows of losing a loved one or friend on 9/11
and its war-on-terror aftermath.
For Phi Kappa Tau and its members, however, we focus on the impact at home, in our circle, in our
families … it is personal. While not so geopolitical, this impact continues to shape our lives. I have a
good friend who is a Marine and served in Desert Storm. He now works as a civilian training current
Marines in preparation for security duty in the Middle East. One wonders how his personal and career
paths have been altered by 9/11.
Further, his son is an active duty Marine captain who has not only served two tours in Iraq, but
is now studying Arabic and will be spending much of the next few years in the Middle East. Again,
one wonders how this path—his combat experience, his education, his career—has shaped his life,
such as who he might marry, where he lives and how he earns a living. This path then affects those of
us—friends and family—who value our relationship with him. People may argue about whether these
changes’ net effect should be characterized a “good” or “bad,” but there is no debate about the fact that
9/11 continues to shape his path.
We spend too little time reflecting on our lives. We spend too little time connecting the dots of our
current life with the dots from the past. The point is not that we should spend more time ruminating,
but rather to note that our future days, both big picture and small picture, depend upon how we react
to the “news” of today. And as you’ll note in the words of our members in our 9/11 insert, reflecting can
be difficult due diligence, but it helps define and direct us.
Steve Hartman, Muskingum ’89, is chief executive officer.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
New & Noteworthy
6
Beta Xi Re-Charters at the University of Georgia
Phi Kappa Tau celebrated the re-chartering of Beta Xi chapter at
Georgia Oct. 22, 2011, in Athens, Ga. The Fraternity’s 62nd chapter,
Beta Xi originally charted in 1950.
National President Greg Heilmeier, Bethany ’86, CEO Steve
Hartman, Muskingum ’89, and Chief Ritualist Fr. Nick Rachford,
Cincinnati ’64, presided over the chartering of the 49-member group at
the ceremony and banquet. More than 180 undergraduates, alumni and
friends were in attendance.
The group originally formed about two years ago after UGA
undergraduates and alumni connected with the university about restarting
the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity on campus. The men formed as an interest
group but quickly became a full-fledged Phi Kappa Tau colony.
From the start, dedicated Beta Xi alumni stepped up to make sure
the group succeeded on campus and within the National Fraternity
structure. Spearheaded by Kirk Smith, Georgia ’80, a re-colonization
committee developed a feasibility analysis, marketing proposal and recolonization plan.
“If not for the commitment of Kirk and Wes, and the tireless efforts of
Bill Crane (Georgia ’80) and the contributions of Brian Todd (Wright
State ’91) and countless other Board of Governors, Housing Corporation,
and Graduate Council members, we could not be at this point two years
into the effort,” said BOG Chairman Dan Moore, Georgia ’88.
Of course, the group had to persevere. Between the 2009-10 and
2010-11 academic years, the colony lost a significant part of its
membership. Coming into the fall 2010 semester, the group was
down to single digits.
“Fortunately, the resolve of two young men proved wrong the notion
that we had lost our best shot to reestablish the group,” Moore said. “Alex
Anthony (Georgia ’11), our 2011 Borradaile Award winner, and Derrek
Moore (Georgia ’11), the 2011 recipient of our local Gaby Scholarship,
refused to quit. After adding a few key members, the colony went from
two members to over 40 by the end of fall semester.”
Chapter President Eric Lindberg, Georgia ’11, said that while the
months leading up to the chartering were a lot of work, it was indescribable
to see how far the group had come over the last two years.
“The group transformed is the best way to put it,” he said. “We went
from a group of good friends to a brotherhood that understood the
common bonds that holds us together on a deeper level. We all felt that
we were writing our own history, as well as finally being able to truly live
out what the chapter has stood for, for 61 years, and the Fraternity for
105 years.”
Heilmeier encouraged the group to continue positively affecting the
National Fraternity.
“Beta Xi chapter has overcome a lot, and their resolve is inspiring,” he
said. “I hope that every Phi Kappa Tau chapter and colony can look at
this group and realize that anything is possible.”
Lindberg’s advice for other colonies looking to charter is to recruit the
right guys.
“People join a place where they have friends, and if they are your
friends, they probably stand for much of the same things you do,” he
said. “Plus, people don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. Your
[group] should revolve around what you believe in, what you represent.
It’s the ‘why’ and ‘how’ that makes you different from the 20-something
fraternities on your campus.”
BOG Member-at-Large Bob Ragsdale, Georgia ’66, looks forward to
the chapter’s years ahead.
“It’s a really neat opportunity to be on the ground floor of a college
fraternity chapter,” he said. “The guys were so excited this weekend,
and now they have to figure out what they’re going to do for the next
couple years to make themselves successful. It’s like a roller coaster—are
you going to coast or are you going to set forth a plan? I hope that
excitement carries forward into a real solid action plan to succeed at the
University of Georgia and within Phi Kappa Tau.”
Moore is sure the men have positive futures ahead of them.
“They are better men for their travails and are celebrating the reward
of their efforts … brotherhood,” Moore said. “They are scholars, athletes,
volunteers, authors, entrepreneurs, musicians, Eagle Scouts and, most of
all, gentlemen. They are diverse, yet they are unified. They are the finest
that the University of Georgia has to offer, and they will excel.”
Alumni and undergraduates gather after the chartering ceremony.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
60th National Convention
Phi Kappa Tau Nominating Committee Requests
Expressions of Interest
The Phi Kappa Tau Constitution mandates that every two years,
the Fraternity assembles in National Convention to elect brothers to
the National Council. The National Council serves as Phi Kappa Tau’s
legislative body when Convention is not in session.
Past National Councilor and Nominating Committee Chairman John
Johnson, Mississippi State ’64, anticipates that Phi Kappa Tau will elect a
National Vice President and two graduate national councilors at the 60th
National Convention July 25-29, 2012, in Nashville, Tenn.
• The National Vice President will hold office for two years and, at
the 61st National Convention (2014), will automatically succeed
to the office of National President for an additional two-year term,
following a vote of confidence by the National Council.
• The graduate national councilors will hold office for six years.
Any alumni member in good standing may be nominated for election.
The nominating committee will receive and review nominations over the
next several months.
Alumni interested in serving on the National Council should send
a résumé to nominatingcommittee2012@phikappatau.org. Members
wishing to submit names for consideration or receive information
about the duties and expectations of national councilors should use the
same address.
Information about the candidacy process will be made available on Phi
Kappa Tau’s website at www.phikappatau.org.
Undergraduate Advisory Board positions will be addressed in
upcoming e-mail and print communication.
Brothers interested in serving in another volunteer role (e.g., Domain
Director, BOG member, etc.) should e-mail volunteer@phikappatau.org
for more information.
2012 Nominating Committee
John A Johnson, Mississippi State ’64, Chairman
William D Jenkins, Bowling Green ’57
Ross E Roeder, Michigan State ’58
John M Green, Nebraska Wesleyan ’60
Robert M Reese, Kent State ’87
Efrem Z Bycer, Cornell ’06
Convention 2012
Help Wanted
Get involved with your Fraternity in a big way July 25-29, 2012, in Nashville.
Phi Kappa Tau is looking for alumni to serve as committee leads
on the National Convention floor.
Open positions include:
Alumni Relations • Credentials • Delegates’ Request • Governance
Hall of Fame • Jurisprudence (attorney at law preferred) • Leadership • Parliamentarian
Risk Management • Scholarship
If you are interested in serving as a lead, please contact National President
Greg Heilmeier, Bethany ’86, at gheilmeier@phikappatau.org.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
7
Men of Character Programs
2011-12
8
Purpose
PHI KAPPA TAU
RISK MANAGEMENT EDUCATION
Target Audience
Schedule
Date/Location
LEADERSHIP
ACADEMY
Undergraduates enhance
individual leadership and character
development while deepening their
understanding of Fraternity values.
Recent initiates through secondyear members, especially those
aspiring to leadership roles
Two sessions held
annually each summer
Summer 2012
PRESIDENTS
ACADEMY
Newly elected presidents gain tools
for success and a structure for
setting goals for their term in office.
Newly elected chapter and
colony presidents
Held annually each winter
Jan. 6-8, 2012, in Tampa, FL
REGIONAL
CONFERENCES
Resident Council officers develop
into chapter leaders while learning
the logistics of their position.
Resident Council officers; all
Resident Council and associate
members are welcome
Eight conferences held
annually in different regions
across the country
Feb. 17-19, Athens, GA
Feb. 17-19, Chicago, IL
Feb. 24-25, Washington, D.C.
Feb. 24-25, Dallas, TX
Mar. 2-4, Columbus, OH
Mar. 2-4, Lexington, KY
Mar. 9-10, San Francisco, CA
Mar. 16-18, Rochester, NY
VOLUNTEER
DEVELOPMENT
INSTITUTE
Board of Governors volunteers
and Domain Directors learn how
to function effectively in a chapter
setting and work efficiently with
undergraduates.
Board of Governors volunteers
and Domain Directors
Held annually each fall
Oct. 14-16, 2011, in
Columbus, OH
BUILDING MEN
OF CHARACTER
RETREATS
Resident Council members
build brotherhood, strengthen
communication and confront barriers
to chapter success.
Resident Council members;
Board of Governors and Housing
Corporation volunteers are
welcome
The two-day retreat is held
at the request of a chapter
or colony
Scheduled as requested
on campus
Good to Great
RETREATS
Resident Council members learn
about specific operational areas.
Retreats available are Recruiting
Men of Character, Ritual, Executive
Council and Response Ability.
Resident Council members
The three- to six-hour
retreat is held at the
request of a chapter or
colony
Scheduled as requested
on campus
MARK OF DISTINCTION
MEMBERSHIP
ORIENTATION
PROGRAM
Associate members learn about
the history and values of the
Fraternity in preparation for
initiation into Phi Kappa Tau.
Associate members
The six-week program is
scheduled by the chapter
Scheduled by chapter
RISK
MANAGEMENT
EDUCATION
Resident Council members
learn to maintain a safe chapter
environment through the
understanding of major risk areas.
Resident Council members
Four required seminars are
held annually
Scheduled by chapter
VOLUNTEER
CERTIFICATION
PROGRAM
Board of Governors volunteers and
Domain Directors gain a baseline
knowledge of their volunteer position.
All Board of Governors
volunteers and Domain Directors
Continuously available
online
Online
THE EXCHANGE
Members and friends of Phi Tau have
Internet access to a wide range of
resources to support learning.
Unlimited
Continuously
available online
Online
HOLE IN THE
WALL CAMP
EXPERIENCE
Members continue the Fraternity’s
commitment to Paul Newman,
Ohio ’43, by enriching the lives of
terminally and seriously ill children
at Newman’s Camps.
Unlimited
Year-round fundraising
activities and volunteer
efforts at specific camps
Various
Sponsored by the North American
Interfraternity Conference (NIC),
Resident Council members focus on
leadership and values.
Resident Council members
10 sessions held
annually each summer
Summer 2012
(www.phikappatau.org/
theexchange)
UNDERGRADUATE
INTERFRATERNITY
INSTITUTE
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
9
Phi Kappa Tau Inspires Young Leaders
Through a variety of programs and fraternity experiences, we build
upon the enthusiasm of our young leaders to help them grow lifelong
skills and friendships.
The Men of Character Programs Phi Kappa Tau provides its members
are intended to enrich the college experience of each undergraduate, create
strong chapters and build brotherhood across generations.
The Fraternity’s programs are delivered by volunteers, who are alumni
and friends of Phi Tau. They contribute their time generously because
they believe in the leaders of tomorrow.
As Men of Character Programs continue to evolve and grow, the focus
is on the following areas:
• Leadership Development enhances individual leadership abilities that
can be applied throughout life. Leadership Academy is Phi Kappa
Tau’s key program in this area.
• Life Skills include developing a servant-leader mindset through
the Hole in the Wall Camp experience. In addition, citizenship,
communication, and critical-thinking skills are offered through other
programs and on The Exchange (www.phikappatau.org/theexchange).
• Chapter Management covers the functional skills required for all
Resident Council officers, as well as volunteer positions. Programs
include Presidents Academy, Regional Conferences, the Volunteer
Certification Program and Volunteer Development Institute.
• Basic Member Education includes membership orientation and
risk management programs, as well as understanding the Ritual, the
Constitution and other governing documents.
Funding
If you wish to learn more about program
schedules and details, contact:
Dustin Brown, Georgetown ’05
Programming Coordinator
(800) PKT-1906 x222
education@phikappatau.org
All Men of Character programs are jointly funded through undergraduate
fees and grants from the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation. Through the
generosity of its donors, the Foundation provides an annual grant that
covers the overhead costs of each program. Many donors have chosen
to designate their gifts to help students from their chapter in order to
decrease the attendance cost for undergraduates.
If you are an alumnus who wishes to be
considered for a facilitator role in these
programs, contact:
Tom Jeswald, Ohio ’63
Chief Learning Officer
tjeswald@phikappatau.org
To directly support these programs, visit www.phikappatau.org/foundation
or contact CEO Steve Hartman at steve@phikappatau.org.
Visit www.phikappatau.org to learn more about
Phi Kappa Tau’s Men of Character Programs.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Phi Kappa Tau
Foundation
10
By Marty Dunning, Kentucky ’07
“ T h i s i s a b o o k a b o u t d r e a m s a n d t h e i r f u l f i ll m e n t – a n d
t h e a d v e n t u r e s o f a l i f e t i m e . ” T h i s s i m pl e , y e t p o w e r f u l
phrase is how Norman Brown, Ohio State ’50, begins his
book, “Untamed Places.”
Norman Brown,
Ohio State ’50
B
rown’s is a name that many brothers in Phi Kappa Tau
know. It may be from his time as both member and
chairman on several of Phi Tau’s national committees,
the chairman of the Foundation Board of Trustees, a
distinguished Foundation trustee, or maybe even from the
Heritage Room at the Executive Offices in Oxford, Ohio.
But Brown is far more than those things.
Professionally, he worked for a major international
advertising agency, all the way from assistant researcher to
CEO. And, even in retirement he hasn’t really settled down.
Get the Book
“Untamed Places” retails for $60. Norman Brown, Ohio State ’50, has agreed
to make his book available to his Phi Kappa Tau brothers for $48. In addition,
when purchased through the Foundation, $12 from each book sale will go to
Phi Kappa Tau’s Leadership Academy fund, which helps the Fraternity’s rising
leaders attend a premier, leadership-development event.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
In fact, it’s quite the opposite, as his new book suggests.
“Untamed Places” is a recount of Brown’s travels around
the world; it is composed of pictures and poems inspired by
the many places he visited. To start the story, we have to take
a step back to where Brown said his leadership experience
began—in Phi Kappa Tau.
As an associate member in Gamma chapter at Ohio
State, Brown served as president of his new member
class. Then came his two-year stint as chapter president.
Having successfully served his chapter, Brown craved more
leadership experiences—sitting on the OSU student senate,
chairing the university’s social board, and ultimately serving
as president of the 1953 OSU class.
“None of this was planned, or for that matter, expected,”
Brown pointed out.
What Brown credits as the foundation for all of this was
“the opportunity to mix with brothers of all stripes, and the
development of interpersonal skills that came with it.”
He came into a chapter that was a large mix of individuals,
ranging from WWII veterans to young freshmen.
“My eyes never closed in terms of what I was absorbing
and learning from others,” Brown said.
After his time at OSU, Brown joined the Air Force where
he served overseas in the Far East during the Korean War.
Shortly after his time in the military, Brown returned to
school and earned his MBA from the Harvard Business
School, where he was recruited for the next major part of
his life story: Foote, Cone & Belding.
The company was an international advertising agency
that was later merged with other advertising agencies into
four communications holding companies. It is now part of
the Interpublic Group.
Advertising combined Brown’s academic experiences—
journalism at OSU and his graduate work at the Harvard
Business School.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Phi Kappa Tau
Foundation
11
“One of the reasons I was drawn to an advertising agency career was
that it was a hybrid organization of two different kinds of talent—creative
people—writers and art directors and film producers—on the one hand,
and analytical and management people on the other hand,” he said. “And I
was something of a hybrid, with streaks of both kinds of talent in myself.”
At Foote, Cone & Belding, Brown started as an assistant researcher in
the company’s office in Los Angeles. Over the next 22 years, he climbed the
corporate ladder until he was the CEO of the company, the role he held
until his retirement in 1992.
During his time as CEO, the company experienced a major
expansion—from 32 offices in 16 countries to 180 offices in 45
countries. Most of this occurred with the market globalization in the
1980s, which is when the company grew from $1 billion to $5 billion
in advertising billings. The company was also recognized for its creative
work, receiving “agency of the year” twice while Brown was CEO.
Throughout his years with Foote, Cone & Belding, Brown traveled
extensively for business. A passage from “Untamed Places” explains his
experiences:
“He traveled all over the world, but saw much of it only from the
windows of skyscrapers or planes. He resolved when he retired to see
it from the ground, to plunge into the natural, physical world, and to
experience firsthand the huge variety of landscapes, peoples, and cultures
that comprise the earth.”
When Brown became partially retired in 1992, he began to travel
around the world just for enjoyment. As he fully retired over the
next few years, he travelled even more, taking photographs of all of
his journeys. These trips ranged from intense, small-group adventure
excursions with groups such as Geographic Expeditions or Mountain
Travel Sobek, to ones that Brown put together himself for family and
close friends.
Starting in 1995, Brown began writing poetry while he traveled, but
only when he was truly inspired. Three years ago, he decided to compile
his photographs and poetry into a book, and in 2011, his plan is coming
to fruition.
“Untamed Places” is the culmination of his photographs and poems,
which are organized into four different sections: “Twenty Necessary
Sights,” “The Eloquence of Earth,” “Among the Ruins of Antiquity” and
“Raw Adventures.” Each section begins with a commentary from Brown
himself that helps to explain the particular section of the book and the
experiences that lie within.
An excerpt from the introduction of the book describes the
adventures he experienced:
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Norm Brown travels in
the Sahara Desert.
“Join me climbing Kilimanjaro, seeing Everest and K2 close up, or
strung together with thousands of Japanese on an all-night pilgrimage to the
top of Mount Fuji. Find yourself deep in the Amazonian jungle, or crossing
the Sahara Desert with Tuaregs, starting in legendary Timbuktu. Retrace the
Silk Road through China, examine ruins at Angkor Wat and Machu Picchu,
probe Outback in Australia and Papua New Guinea, and meet the vibrant
wildlife wonders of the Serengeti.”
A truly awe-inspiring book, the wonders of the world come alive on each
page.The poetry reflects this inspiration and helps give each photograph life
and meaning. It is hard to look at these pages and keep the urge to have
these adventures at bay.
The beginning of the book reflects what every reader must be thinking:
Brown is an inspiring man.
“To do what he did in [his sixties and seventies]—often with people half
his age, several of whom became dear friends—requires not only courage
and stamina, but humor and resilience, and the willingness to tough it out
and roll with the punches,” the book reads.
All of these qualities tie back to what Brown mentioned multiple times—
leadership. Whether it was while he was traveling the world, working for
Foote, Cone & Belding, serving in the Air Force or leading Phi Kappa Tau,
leadership has been a core part of his experience.
“It simply has to be more than coincidence that such a disproportionately
large number of business, governmental and professional leaders are
fraternity men,” Brown mused.
Leading by example. That’s the mantra to which Brown subscribes
and hopes other Phi Taus do, too. Whether it’s giving back to various
organizations or inspiring others through breathtaking adventures, Brown
truly serves as an example of what being a fraternity man, especially a Phi
Kappa Tau brother, is all about.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Phi Kappa Tau
Foundation
Leadership
12
True leadership is needed at every level of today’s society, from the
Little League Baseball field to the
halls of Congress. Phi Kappa Tau has a responsibility to ensure that
the leaders of tomorrow are prepared with the
LIFE SKILLS needed to tackle the challenges of tomorrow
big and
—
small.
A select group of undergraduate men have made their choice to
associate with the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity.
These young brothers made
this choice for many of
the same reasons you did—friendship, scholarship and leadership.
We need LEADERS that are true Men of Character,
and Phi Kappa Tau is prepared to provide our young brothers with the
training and experiences that only the best Fraternity can offer.
For this to happen, these young men need you to make another choice for Phi
Kappa Tau—to help the Foundation
prepare the leaders
of tomorrow.
www.phikappatau.org/choices
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Our id e ntity
Three Phi Taus are making a name for
themselves, and they haven’t forgotten
their Fraternity roots.
We
Are
Robert Rippy
President, Jungle Rapids/
Wrightsville Farms
Management Group, Inc.
Chairman, International
Association of Amusement
Parks and Attractions
Wilmington, N.C.
FKT
The King of Fun
Robert Rippy, East Carolina ’71, is in the business of fun. Following a successful career as a
Wall Street investment banker, Rippy invested in the attractions industry. Today, he owns or has
interests in a number of businesses, including Jungle Rapids, a successful family entertainment
center in Wilmington, N.C. This year, he has also served as chairman of the world’s largest trade
association for the global attractions industry, the International Association of Amusement Parks
and Attractions (IAAPA).
“As treasurer and president of Phi Tau, I learned how to run a business. Managing a fraternity is
certainly different than operating a family fun center, but the primary issues and opportunities
are very similar. And of course, living with 38 fraternity brothers I also learned a lot about
tolerance, which has served me well. I made lifelong friendships and business partners in Phi
Kappa Tau. From taking care of our guests at Jungle Rapids to leading IAAPA to sharing ideas
and best practices with fellow attractions operators around the world, it all started with the
foundations I built within the Fraternity and at East Carolina. Those lessons have traveled with
me—from Hong Kong and the UK to Colombia, Australia and China—and have helped me
understand that the right combinations of commitment, passion and hard work in a close-knit
community will pay big dividends in the long run.”
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
13
We
Photograph by Mark Duncan, AP Images (Finn is pictured at left with ozzie guillen)
14
Are
FKT
Andy Finn
Bat Boy, Cleveland Indians
North Royalton, Ohio
The Sideliner
Andy Finn, Mount Union ’08, has served as the
Cleveland Indians’ visiting team bat boy since 2005.
A more grueling job than some might imagine, Finn
attends every home game and gets to Progressive Field
hours before each game to make sure everything is
just right for the visitors. Since joining Phi Tau, Finn has
learned to appreciate each and every part of his job.
“‘Can I have your autograph?’ It’s a sentence I hear
nearly everyday while working at Progressive Field. Back
in 2005, my usual response was, ‘I’m nobody special,’
while ducking my head and getting back to work. Phi
Tau, however, gave me a different attitude. I learned to
hold my head up, walk with confidence and give each
person that singled me out a little bit of my time. Phi
Tau helped me realize that small things can make a big
difference in someone’s life, and really, it’s the small
things that matter. Now every time I hear, ‘Can I have
your autograph?’ my response is, ‘Absolutely,’ with a
big smile.”
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Michael Hennessy
Managing Director, Morgan Creek Capital Management
Trustee, William & Mary Foundation Board
Durham, N.C.
We
Are
FKT
The Faithful Friend
Michael Hennessy, William & Mary ’76, a
trustee on the William & Mary Foundation
Board, created the Phi Kappa Tau Memorial
Scholarship Fund in honor of four chapter
brothers who died in a tragic car accident in
1978: Paul Cahill ’74, Gary Altman ’76, Glenn
Balas ’76 and Graham Tancill ’76.
Photograph by Colonial Photography
“When I joined Phi Tau in the mid ’70s, our
chapter was the most diverse on campus.
One thing that was a common passion,
however, was the arts, and especially music.
Brothers held senior leadership roles in most
of the cultural organizations on campus, and
to this day many of them are artists, writers,
educators and musicians.
“To honor my four chapter brothers’ love
of music, the Phi Kappa Tau Memorial
Scholarship is eligible to any William & Mary
student pursuing research related to music.
I have met five recipients thus far, and I am
heartened that all of them are eminently
worthy, and especially that these scholarships
are making a meaningful difference in their
education and life experiences. I know that’s
what my brothers would have wanted.”
Michael Hennessy, William & Mary ’76, is
pictured with the plaque that commemorates
his brothers. It reads: In Memorium, Gary
Altman, Glenn Balas, Graham Tancill, Paul
Cahill, April 14, 1978
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
15
16
16
On July 16 and 17, 2011, Phi Kappa Tau hosted
its first-ever Conclave with more than
100 undergraduates, alumni and guests in
attendance. Held in Oxford, Ohio, at Miami
University—Phi Kappa Tau’s birthplace—the
event was filled with brotherhood.
Phi Kappa Tau Hosts
Participants attended sessions in Shideler
Hall on Miami University’s campus. The
building is named for Honored Founder
William Shideler, Miami ’06, a past Miami
faculty member.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Mike Lerdahl, St. Cloud State ’08, talks to
Andy Fruth, Southern Illinois ’08, before
the Recognition Banquet.
C
onclave encompasses several different
events. These include the National Council
and committee meetings, a model initiation
ceremony, recognition banquet and Brotherhood Banquet. Representatives from the
Association of Hole in the Wall Camps, the Fraternity’s national philanthropy, were present at the event’s kick off and
attended a “Taste of Oxford” dinner at the Executive Offices
to answer members’ questions about volunteering.
“I saw our values come out most at the awards ceremony,” said Jon Krodel, Belmont ’08. “It’s powerful to see individuals and chapters excelling in areas of community service,
academics, philanthropy, and much more.”
Many attendees agreed that the best part of Conclave, as
with any national event, is being able to see and meet brothers
from around the country.
National Vice President Stephan
Nelson, Southern Mississippi ’73,
speaks at the Recognition Banquet.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
17
“For me, the best part of Conclave is the same as the best
part of any event: getting to see the brothers who I have become very close friends with from across the country,” said
Phil Frandina, RIT ’08. “The Brotherhood Banquet is also
incredibly special every time.”
Although Conclave was planned to conduct business,
at times it felt more like a family reunion.
“As with any inaugural event, there is always room to
grow,” Frandina said. “But to be at the first Conclave is
something that is truly special. The staff at the Executive Offices always does a phenomenal job and the events seem to
always go on without any hiccups.”
Conclave also served as a precursor to next year’s 60th
National Convention in Nashville, Tenn, which will be held
July 25-29, 2012.
What is Conclave?
Along with providing time for brotherhood, the purpose of Conclave
is to give the Fraternity a chance to conduct business during an offConvention year. During the 2006 Convention, delegates asked the
National Council to conduct an off-Convention-year assembly to allow
for annual discussion on broader legislative and fraternal issues. This
assembly was convened at Leadership Academy in 2007 and 2009.
However, with a new Leadership Academy setting, curriculum and
focus, this legislative session will continue to be conducted at Conclave
in the coming years.
National Councilor Mike Dovilla,
Baldwin-Wallace ’94, National President
Greg Heilmeier, Bethany ’86, and National
Councilor Ken Loewen, Colorado ’80,
gather in the Centennial Gardens.
Brothers participate in the Candlelight
Ceremony at the Brotherhood Banquet. Bill
Jenkins, Bowling Green ’57, led the ceremony.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Learning. Leading. Serving.
18
18
D
elta chapter at Centre received the Fraternity’s Maxwell Trophy
during the inaugural Conclave Brotherhood Banquet on July 17.
The Maxwell Trophy is Phi Kappa Tau’s highest honor awarded to a
chapter, and Delta chapter has received the honor five times.
During the 2010 calendar year (the award was previously based on the
academic year), the chapter most exemplified the Fraternity’s values in all
aspects of programming and operation. Delta chapter achieved Maxwell
level in all 14 areas of the Borradaile Challenge.
National President Greg Heilmeier, Bethany ’86, presented the Maxwell
Trophy to the group. The award memorializes Roland Maxwell, Southern
California ’22, National President from 1934 to 1959, former president of
the North-American Interfraternity Conference and winner of the NIC
Gold Medal for distinguished service.
Chapter President Jordan Fitch, Centre ’09, Membership Orientation Officer Jim Ransdell, Centre ’09, and recent Leadership Academy
graduate and John Cosgrove Spirit and Leadership Award winner Wood
Smith, Centre ’11, presented Delta’s Maxwell application to the awards
committee July 16.
According to these men, Delta chapter prides itself on always working to
uphold the Fraternity's Cardinal Principles, and instills this same commitment in new members year after year.
In their Maxwell application, the men included the following:
“[The] men of Delta use Phi Kappa Tau’s mission, along with the national vision and creed, to better our chapter and the Fraternity as a whole. We
recognize that each piece of this mission implies room for improvement,
and we consistently strive towards these ideals in order to better represent
ourselves as men of character.”
While Delta chapter is well-rounded, the group does have a major
strongpoint—academics. As well as being chosen as the Maxwell Trophy
winner, the group was also named one of the top scholastic achievers in
Phi Kappa Tau with a 3.23 cumulative GPA. During the last academic year,
Delta chapter was also recognized with Centre’s John W. Yerkes Scholarship Cup, which is awarded to the fraternity with highest academic average
in the preceding year.
Members of Delta chapter are not only involved in the chapter, but also
heavily involved in other campus organizations. Ninety-six percent of the
chapter is involved in another student organization, and more than half of
these men hold leadership positions in those groups. Just in the past few
years, members of Delta chapter included a Centre valedictorian, Rhodes
Scholar and Rotary Scholar.
“The men of Phi Kappa Tau at Centre College set a high standard,”
said Centre College President John Roush. “Their contributions to
their Fraternity, to our campus, and to the community are significant
and important. What makes us most proud of Centre’s Phi Tau chapter
is the kind of citizen-leaders produced year after year. And, while I am
quick to add that the [chapter] should not get full or even the most
credit for this accomplishment—the families of the young men would be
first in this line—it’s clear to me that membership in the organization
contributes mightily to this result.”
Finally, service is a key motivation for Delta chapter members—many
even join the chapter for this reason. This year, the men logged more than
2,500 hours of community service and held philanthropy events in support of the Association of Hole in the Wall Camps and the St. Balderick’s
Foundation. The group raised more than $15,000 for charity.
“Delta chapter has demonstrated excellence across the board this
year—from scholarship to risk management to service—and they make
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Wes Fugate, Centre ’99, Wood Smith, Centre ’11,
Jim Ransdell, Centre ’09 and Jordan Fitch,
Centre ’09, celebrate after Delta chapter is
named the Maxwell winner.
my job as chapter advisor one that I embrace and enjoy,” said Chapter
Advisor Patrick Noltemeyer, Centre ’98.
Fitch said that receiving the honor provides even more motivation for
the 2011-12 academic year.
“The honor of the Maxwell Award only gives our chapter more momentum towards excellence in the coming year,” Fitch said in a Centre news
story. “After a strong year of recruitment with 26 men initiated, we have
a renewed energy in our chapter that we knew would help us grow in the
right direction.”
For Smith, a very new initiate who is already becoming a leader in his
chapter, fraternity membership means being a part of something bigger
than yourself.
“There's nothing more fulfilling,” he told Centre News, “than knowing
that where you fail, someone else excels, and together you can maybe make
a difference in at least one person's life.”
Delta Chapter BOG Members:
Bryan Rich, Centre ‘98, BOG Chairman
Dominic Barbato, Centre ‘00, Alumni Advisor
Patrick Noltemeyer, Centre ‘98, Chapter Advisor
James Boyd, Centre ‘01, Financial Advisor
Robert Hartkins, Centre ‘99, Member-at-Large
Chris McCrary, Centre ‘99, Risk Management Advisor
David Williams, Centre ‘99, Scholarship Advisor
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
P
Phil Frandina Named Shideler Award Winner
hil Frandina, RIT ’08, was named the 2011 Shideler Award winner at
Phi Kappa Tau’s inaugural Conclave Brotherhood Banquet on Sunday,
July 17, in Oxford, Ohio.
The Shideler Award is the Fraternity’s highest undergraduate honor, presented annually to the most outstanding graduating senior in Phi Kappa
Tau. The award is in the form of a scroll and memorializes Honored Founder William H. Shideler, Miami ’06.
Frandina, a two-term president of Gamma Nu chapter at RIT and member of the Undergraduate Advisory Board, was honored to be chosen as Phi
Kappa Tau’s most outstanding senior.
“As soon as Brother [Steve] Nelson took the stage to announce the winner, my heart really began to pound,” he said. “It was strange, because even
though I already knew I had won, there was still a great amount of nervousness about me. Having that many people applaud my efforts over the last
four years was overwhelming and truly humbling.”
National vice president Stephan
Frandina credited National Vice President Steve Nelson, Southern MissisNelson, Southern Mississippi ’73,
sippi ’73, as his inspiration for applying for the award.
presents the shideler award to
A proven leader and hard worker, Frandina recently graduated from RIT’s
Saunders College of Business Marketing Program with a 3.6 GPA. He rephil frandina, rit ’08.
ceived a job at Swagelok right after graduation.
Within his chapter, Frandina led the group to create an adapted membership orientation program called “Milestones or Millstones.” Under his
leadership, Gamma Nu chapter also created a new philanthropy event, the Breezeway Battle of the Bands, which raises substantial philanthropy
dollars for the Association of the Hole in the Wall Camps. Frandina currently serves as the Upstate Domain Director.
Frandina’s story is remarkable; from his humble Phi Tau beginnings has come a true success story.
As a freshman at RIT, he had no intention of joining a fraternity. Frandina originally went to recruitment just to support a friend from his residence
hall floor, and in the end, decided to accept the bid he was offered from Phi Tau. After the first couple weeks of association, and with no signs of hazing,
he realized how special the organization really was. It was then when he realized he was in the right place.
“My family has always pushed me to strive to be something that they could be proud of, something good,” Frandina said in his acceptance speech. “My
chapter brothers of Gamma Nu pushed me one step further, pushed me to be great. However, my brothers all across the country pushed me to truly be
great. They managed to stay a step ahead of me as leaders, as followers, and as men of character. Though friendly competition will always remain, they
are the carrot on a stick just ahead of my nose that makes me push myself to go to sleep better than I woke up.”
Father Nick Receives Palm Award
F
Ken Jordon, wright state ’74 presents the Palm award to
fr. nick rachford, cincinnati ’64.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
r. Nick Rachford, Cincinnati ’64, was named the Palm Award
recipient at the inaugural Conclave at Miami University. He received the award at the Recognition Banquet on July 17.
The Palm Award is one of Phi Kappa Tau’s most prominent awards.
It is presented to alumni, after a nomination and vote of the National
Council, who have shown exemplary service and dedication to the
national organization.
“I didn’t recognize the description until Les Fugate said the recipient was the national chaplain,” said Rachford of the award presentation. “At that point I was stunned and had no thought other than that
I had to go to the podium. Once there, I was still flabbergasted.”
Rachford has an impressive history with Phi Kappa Tau. He has served
as a Domain Director, Foundation trustee, Board of Governors member, on numerous committees, and he currently serves as the Fraternity’s
national chaplain and chief ritualist, a position he’s held for nearly 20
years.
“I am overwhelmed and speechless to receive this honor that has
also been received by so many outstanding brothers of our Fraternity,”
Rachford said. “I have a great love for our Ritual and hope to continue
conducting and explaining it.”
Learning. Leading. Serving.
19
20
2010
Award Winners
Previously, all Phi Kappa Tau awards were
given
the
based
metrics
on
chapter
of the
performance
Borradaile
in
Challenge
over the academic year. Beginning this year,
the National Council voted to alter the
Borradaile Challenge reporting calendar
to align with the c alendar year. Thus, these
awards are based on the 2010 c alendar year.
Jack L. Anson undergraduate
(Presented to Ben Donlon, Louisville ’09,
by National President Greg Heilmeier,
Bethany ’86, and Undergraduate Advisory
Board Member Jason Lustig, Cornell ’08)
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Academic Excellence
Presented to those chapters and colonies that
exhibit an outstanding record of academic
achievement. The chapter or colony must be
0.1 above the all men’s average GPA.
Gamma colony, Ohio State; Delta, Centre; Eta, Muhlenberg; Kappa, Kentucky;
Alpha Theta, William & Mary; Alpha
Tau, Cornell; Alpha Phi, Akron; Beta
Iota, Florida State; Beta Kappa, Oklahoma State; Beta Xi colony, Georgia; Beta
Chi, Southern Illinois; Delta Chi colony,
Rochester; Delta Omega, Truman State;
Epsilon Gamma, College of New Jersey;
Epsilon Kappa, Rutgers; Zeta Alpha,
Belmont; Charleston colony; North Texas
colony
Harold E. Angelo Award
Presented to the chapter that has shown the
greatest improvement compared to its record
the previous year.
Epsilon Sigma, Chapman
Jack L. Anson Undergraduate Award
Presented to an undergraduate for outstanding interfraternal service.
Ben Donlon, Louisville ’09
Board of Governors Award
Presented to up to three BOGs for outstanding contribution to their chapters.
Delta, Centre
Administrative Excellence
Presented to those chapters and colonies that
exhibit an outstanding record of compliance
with administrative reporting. The chapter or
colony must file 100 percent of required reports, 90 percent on time.
Borradaile Undergraduate Award
Presented to the undergraduate who, by his
actions, has shown leadership and a true understanding of brotherhood.
Delta, Centre; Epsilon, Mount Union;
Theta, Transylvania; Alpha Tau, Cornell;
Beta Beta, Louisville; Beta Kappa, Oklahoma State; Beta Omicron, Maryland; Beta
Omega, Cal State-Chico; Gamma Alpha,
Michigan Tech; Gamma Beta, Cincinnati;
Gamma Nu, RIT; Delta Theta, Georgetown; Delta Tau, Cal Poly-Pomona
Clinton D. Boyd Vice President of Alumni
Relations Award
Presented to the undergraduate who implements the best alumni relations program.
Alex Anthony, Georgia ’11
Bryan Burns, Cal Poly-Pomona ’08
Dr. Edgar Ewing Brandon Award
Presented to a chapter advisor who has shown
outstanding service to the Fraternity.
Community Service Award
Presented to the chapters and colonies that
accumulate the most hours per man, as well
as the most cumulative chapter hours. There
are scrolls for the two runners up for each category. All chapters and colonies that average
20 or more hours per man are awarded Maxwell status and a scroll. All chapters and colonies that average between 10 and 20 hours
per man are awarded Order of the Start status
and a scroll.
Hours per man
Alpha Upsilon, Colgate—65.09 hours
Delta, Centre—65.01 hours
Kappa, Kentucky—41.15 hours
Total Hours
Alpha Upsilon, Colgate—4,166 hours
Delta, Centre—4,160.5 hours
Kappa, Kentucky—2,016.5 hours
More than 20 hours per man
Alpha, Miami; Epsilon, Mount Union; Alpha
Kappa, Washington State; Alpha Lambda,
Auburn; Alpha Tau, Cornell; Beta Kappa,
Oklahoma State; Beta Lambda, Indiana;
Beta Phi, Westminster; Beta Chi, Southern
Illinois; Beta Omega, Cal State-Chico; Gamma Beta, Cincinnati; Delta Nu, Wright State;
Delta Tau, Cal Poly-Pomona; Epsilon Beta,
West Virginia Tech; Epsilon Epsilon colony,
William Paterson; Zeta Alpha, Belmont
Patrick Noltemeyer, Centre ’98
Greg Hollen Colony President Award
(Presented to Eric Cyffka, Rochester AM,
by Heilmeier and Expansion Coordinator
Alex Koehler, Mount Union ’07)
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Frederick R. Fletemeyer Prize
(Presented to Beta Xi colony at Georgia
[received by Kenny Johnson, Georgia ’11]
by Heilmeier and National Councilor Mike
Dovilla, Baldwin-Wallace ’94)
Learning. Leading. Serving.
21
22
2010
Award Winners
Dwight I. Douglass President’s Award
Presented to up to three chapter presidents
who demonstrates general administrative excellence.
Richard Massock Award
Presented to the chapter with the most outstanding chapter-produced newsletters and alumni
programming.
Markus Delello, Rensselaer ’09
Jason Lustig, Cornell ’08
Josh Smith, Ohio ’07
Delta, Centre
Frederick R. Fletemeyer Prize
Presented to the Fraternity’s most
outstanding colony.
Beta Xi, Georgia
Greg Hollen Colony President Award
Presented to the colony president who demonstrates general administrative excellence.
Eric Cyffka, Rochester AM
William D. Jenkins Interfraternity
Excellence Award
Presented to a non-member undergraduate
for outstanding contribution to the greek
community.
Brandon Kuhn, Kappa Alpha Order
(nominated by Beta Iota chapter at
Florida State)
Roland Maxwell Scrolls
Presented to those chapters that meet Maxwell
expectations within the Borradaile Challenge.
Delta, Centre
Epsilon, Mount Union
Alpha Tau, Cornell
Delta Tau, Cal Poly-Pomona
Zeta Alpha, Belmont
Roland Maxwell Founders Four
Presented to those chapters that meet Maxwell
expectations within the Borradaile Challenge
and are selected to present for the Roland Maxwell Trophy as the Founders Four.
Delta, Centre
Epsilon, Mount Union
Alpha Tau, Cornell
Delta Tau, Cal Poly-Pomona
outstanding greek advisor award
(presented to wes fugate,
centre ’99, by heilmeier and
Ohio Valley Domain Director
jeff steller, kentucky ’06)
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Roland Maxwell Trophy
Presented to the most outstanding chapter in
the Fraternity.
Outstanding Advisor to a Colony Award
Presented to the most outstanding colony
advisor.
Delta, Centre
Ron Kocher, Ohio State ’61
(advisor to North Texas colony)
Monroe Moosnick Scholarship Trophy
Presented to the chapter that has the highest
cumulative GPA.
Alpha Tau, Cornell—3.46 GPA
Alpha Theta, William & Mary—3.3 GPA
Delta, Centre—3.25 GPA
Paul Newman Award
Presented to the chapter that raises the highest dollar amount to benefit the Hole in the
Wall Camps.
Outstanding Greek Advisor Award
Presented to a greek advisor in recognition of
their tremendous contribution to our Fraternity and their respective greek community.
Wes Fugate, Centre ’99
(advisor to Beta Xi colony at Georgia)
Palm Award
Presented to alumni who show outstanding
service to the national organization.
Alpha Phi, Akron—$25,500
Father Nick Rachford, Cincinnati ’64
Order of the Star Chapters
Presented to those chapters that meet Order
of the Star expectations within the Borradaile
Challenge.
Philanthropy/Hole in the Wall Camp
Certificates
Presented to those chapters that raise funds
to assist both local philanthropic causes and
the Hole in the Wall Camps, Phi Kappa Tau’s
national philanthropy. The following is in order of amount donated ($2,000 minimum).
Eta, Muhlenberg; Theta, Transylvania;
Kappa, Kentucky; Alpha Delta, Case Western; Beta Beta, Louisville; Beta Kappa,
Oklahoma State; Beta Phi, Westminster;
Beta Omega, Cal State-Chico; Gamma Alpha, Michigan Tech; Delta Theta, Georgetown; Epsilon Rho, Indiana U of Pennsylvania
Outstanding Advisor to a Chapter Award
Presented to the most outstanding chapter
advisor who has served in the role for a minimum of two years.
Patrick Madden, Cornell ’85
Heilmeier congratulates Alpha
Tau chapter at Cornell for
winning the Moosnick Award.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Omicron, Penn State ($54,294); Delta,
Centre ($15,640); Beta Chi, Southern Illinois ($11,020); Gamma Omicron, Cal
State-Fullerton ($10,600); Kappa, Kentucky ($7,345); Epsilon, Mount Union
($7,151); Alpha Upsilon, Colgate ($5,890);
Alpha Eta, Florida ($4,731); Alpha, Miami
($4,391); Delta Nu, Wright State ($4,300);
Alpha Tau, Cornell ($4,133.77); Epsilon
Kappa, Rutgers ($4,075); Alpha Delta,
Case Western ($3,827); Beta Beta, Louisville ($3,755); Beta, Ohio ($3,165); Delta
Tau, Cal Poly-Pomona ($2,744.57); Gamma Alpha, Michigan Tech ($2,628); Zeta
Alpha, Belmont ($2,556.59); Alpha Pi,
Washington ($2,550); Zeta Beta, Saginaw
Valley State ($2,390); Epsilon Chi, Virginia Tech ($2,319.33); Gamma Nu, RIT
($2,280); Epsilon Nu, Clemson ($2,270)
Recruitment Pacesetter Award
Presented to those chapters that set the pace
for the largest recruitment classes in the
country.
More than 30
Alpha, Miami; Beta, Ohio
More than 20
Epsilon, Mount Union; Eta, Muhlenberg;
Omicron, Penn State; Alpha Lambda, Auburn; Alpha Tau, Cornell; Beta Beta, Louisville; Beta Omicron, Maryland; Beta Phi,
Westminster; Beta Chi, Southern Illinois;
Beta Psi, Cal State-Long Beach; Gamma Tau,
Old Dominion; Delta Delta, Bryant; Epsilon
Nu, Clemson; Zeta Alpha, Belmont
Sonny Strange Recruitment Plaque
Presented to the chapter with the highest recruitment and retention rate.
Epsilon Sigma, Chapman
William H. Shideler Award
Presented to the most outstanding graduating senior in Phi Kappa Tau, this is the Fraternity’s highest undergraduate honor.
Phil Frandina, RIT ’08
Thomas L. Stennis II Award
Presented to the Domain Director with the
most outstanding domain program.
Les Fugate, Centre ’99
Paul Newman Award (presented to
alpha phi chapter at akron [recieved by
Chad Warrick, Akron ’09] by heilmeier and
National councilor josh bleidt, eastern
kentucky ’96)
Learning. Leading. Serving.
23
FKT
24
Hosts Second
Annual Leadership Academy
T
B y M ik e L e r d a h l , S t. C lo u d ’ 0 8
his summer, Phi Kappa Tau held two sessions of Leadership Academy at two different locations—Jameson Camp in Indianapolis and Camp Rock Eagle in Eatonton, Ga.
More than 110 rising Phi Kappa Tau leaders attended
the events.
Leadership Academy is the Fraternity's premier,
individualized, leadership-development event. The curriculum guides students to think critically about important issues facing individuals, chapters and the Fraternity, while preparing them to be ethical leaders on
their campus and in their chosen field. Academy helps
members highlight their strengths as a way of developing values-based leadership skills.
Last year was the first year that the Fraternity hosted Academy as an annual event. Previously, the event
was held biennially on off-Convention years.
Brothers participate in the traditional Hole in the Wall
Camp pudding-eating contest.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
“Leadership Academy has been a great program for
more than two decades and has maintained a consistent focus on values and principles,” Leadership Academy Dean Wes Fugate, Centre ’99, said after Academy 2010. “Over time, however, the needs of today’s
students and the organization have changed. Thus, Phi
Kappa Tau spent time with some of the great minds
within the Fraternity and from the interfraternal community to redevelop an Academy that sets the Fraternity at the forefront of leadership development.”
At Academy 2011, participants uncovered their
strengths and learned how to use them in leadership roles;
created personal visions for their chapters; and participated
in a brother-to-brother session, challenge course, and Phi
Kappa Tau’s traditional Candlelight Ceremony. Of course,
attendees also had the opportunity to build a brotherhood
with members from across the nation.
John Ryniawec, Westminster ’10, Chris Lovekin, Ohio
State AM, Justin Anderson, Ohio State AM, and Colin
Agner, Westminster ’10, meet at Academy.
Attendees participate in the
challenge course.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
“The best part [of Leadership Academy] was meeting my brothers from
across the country and reconnecting with the idea that I'm not just a part
of Delta chapter, I'm a part of the national Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity,” said
Wood Smith, Centre ’11, winner of the 2011 John Cosgrove Spirit and
Leadership Award for Session I. “Understanding that I had brothers that
cared about me from California to Virginia and from New York to Texas
really brought about a change in the fire that I feel for my Fraternity.”
The Cosgrove Award was given to two brothers—one at Session I and
one at Session II. The award recognizes participants who most clearly
demonstrate the spirit of Leadership Academy. The Session II winner was
Nicholas Krause, Saginaw Valley State ’11.
Academy is designed not only to give participants time in a large-group
learning atmosphere, called the “community,” but also in smaller breakout
groups called “chapters.” The small groups allow for deeper conversation
and are generally where the real brotherhood growth and development is
experienced.
With the new Academy format, some changes were made to the layout
of the experience. For example, there was free time scheduled into each day,
allowing participants time to play basketball, swim, play volleyball or just
relax with new friends. Attendees also had a chance to work together in
teambuilding exercises.
“The challenge course helped me realize that our Fraternity is in good
hands and that I can depend on other people within my chapter when it
comes to getting things done,” Jacob McAbee, Murray State ’07, said.
Overall, participants had the opportunity to develop themselves as Phi
Taus, men and leaders.
McAbee, also a Leadership Academy attendee in 2009, credits the program with developing him into who he is today.
“It's a great week of fun, learning and bonding that only Phi Kappa
Tau can provide,” he said. “If you don't believe me, ask former graduates of
Leadership Academy. They will all tell you the same thing. I have attended
two. I am currently serving as president of Delta Pi chapter at Murray State
University. So, you can say that by attending Leadership Academy, it has led
me to go on and do bigger things within the chapter.”
Fugate Completes Dean Tenure,
Stansberry to Take on Role
Academy 2011 was a first in many regards, but the
last in another: Wes Fugate, Centre ’99, served his last
year as dean of the program, a position he’s held for five
years. Don Stansberry, Ohio ’87, became the new dean
at the end of Academy 2011.
“Leadership Academy has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have enjoyed either within or outside of Phi Kappa Tau,” Fugate said. “Seeing the effect
that this program has on the lives of the Fraternity’s, and
indeed the world’s, future leaders reminds me of the positive impact Phi Kappa Tau has on its members.”
Stansberry is ready for the challenge.
“I am very excited to be leading our Leadership Academy program,” he said. “The program is designed to focus on the strengths our men bring to Phi Kappa Tau. By
capitalizing on this, attendees are able to return to their
campuses and help their brother maximize their strengths,
as well. I believe in this program.”
The dean of students at Old Dominion University in
Norfolk, Va., Stansberry previously served Phi Kappa Tau
as the Tidewater Domain Director for 10 years. He is also
a member of the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), National Association of Student Personnel
Administrators (NASPA) and National Association for
Campus Activities (NACA).
“While my past five years as dean of Leadership Academy will always be some of my most cherished fraternal
memories, it is not difficult to leave this position when you
have someone as talented as Don Stansberry stepping into
the role,” said Fugate. “Don has decades of experience
working with students in higher education, particularly
Greek students. I am eager to see how he will put his many
talents to use to continue to make Leadership Academy the
nation’s premier fraternal leadership program.”
Volunteers and Staff Members
Dean
Wes Fugate, Centre ’99
Assistant Dean
Don Stansberry, Ohio ’87
Lead Leadership
Coaches
Jennifer Jones-Hall
Todd Napier, Evansville ’83
A chapter works on leadership curriculum.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Leadership Coaches
Thad Doyle
Andy Fruth, Southern Illinois ’08
John Green, Nebraska Wesleyan ’60
Chris Jefferson
Tanner Marcantel
Jordan McCarter
Sarah Rochford
Justin Roush, Centre ’07
Libby Shanton
Cat Sohor
Jeff Steller, Kentucky ’06
Casey Stevens
Tom Tinker, Cal State-Fullerton ’97
Cody Ward, Georgia ’09
Staff
Marty Dunning, Kentucky ’07
Mike Lerdahl, St. Cloud ’08
Cindy Morgan
Learning. Leading. Serving.
25
chapter eternal
T h e f o ll o w i n g m e m b e r s w e r e r e p o r t e d d e c e a s e d t o t h e E x e c u t i v e
O f f i c e s b e t w e e n J u n e 2 5 a n d Oc t . 2 4 , 2 0 1 1 .
26
Akron
Billy E Wenum ’46
Ted A Messner ’68
Auburn
William L Denham Jr ’27
Thomas L Baggette ’54
Baldwin-Wallace
Norman Fadil ’51
Bethany
Edwin V Murphy ’49
Bowling Green
Paul L Cashell ’51
Gary L Pritt ’73
Cincinnati
Coe
David F Cole ’57
Leslie E Edmonds ’54
Raymond K Peterson ’38
Raymond I Dawson Jr ’39
Colorado
Charles W McKinley ’48
Jerold F Milner ’49
East Carolina
David Ozag ’05
Florida
Tom L Barrow ’34
Florida State
William M Watson ’52
Georgia
Samuel T Lipham Jr ’49
Georgia Tech
George D Boggs ’50
Idaho
Andrew F Kirsch ’50
Illinois
Alvin C Belsley ’54
Iowa State
William E Franks ’61
Kansas
David C Sprang ’49
Kentucky
Lloyd W Waddell ’41
Lawrence
Lawrence R Toussaint ’48
Louisville
Martin W McIntosh Jr ’72
Andrew P Schweickhardt ’97
Miami
Williard P Keebler ’48
Michigan
John C Linville ’48
Michigan State
Edward D Kaupas ’51
Colgate
Kent State
Philip Harrison ’62
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Mississippi State
Ohio State
Charles E Whitehead ’42
David E Garwood ’47
Paul R Dobbins ’54
Robert J Cheney ’56
Garwin P Velie ’71
James J Yatsko ’73
Thomas J Higgins ’85
Oklahoma State
Andrew Sunderland ’92
Oregon State
Everett P Smyth ’54
Purdue
William B Cottingham ’53
Val Gerstenschlager ’58
Douglas A Todd ’70
Southern California
John E Murphy ’49
Alvin G Perry ’41
George L Herd ’67
Southern Illinois
Mount Union
Southern Mississippi
Stanley Lutz Jr ’38
William W Steiner ’39
Robert B McCallum ’57
Nebraska Wesleyan
Valjean M Cashen ’53
Daniel T McQuagge ’61
Syracuse
Frederick D Regetz ’51
Carroll J Story ’39
Francis Hughes ’42
Rigdon E Joosten ’48
Richard C Hanna ’49
Elton L Weston ’49
Bill J Jenkins ’52
Leon D Dappen ’61
Ralph H Wolfe Jr ’62
Michael J Mohr ’65
Texas-Austin
New Mexico
Texas State-San Marcos
Daniel Hardin ’52
North Carolina State
Sidney H Roddey Jr ’50
Northern Michigan
Raimo M Mikkola ’64
Ohio
Carl E Wiegel ’38
Robert N Freeland ’52
Wesley C Uhl ’54
Josh Paul Rodgers ’95
James M Whaley ’49
Victor R Williams ’51
Jim D Lovett ’52
John H Sherrer ’63
Texas-El Paso
Earl L Mercer ’50
Robert E Nesom Jr ’55
Haynes M Baumgardner Jr ’68
Mel Kyser ’68
Transylvania
James L Peel ’47
UC Berkeley
Gordon E Seck ’49
William & Mary
James A Karabedian ’43
Youngstown
Richard N Terlecki ’68
Jim Lovett, Texas-Austin ’52, died
Sept. 29, 2011, at age 77. He earned a
doctorate of jurisprudence from the
University of Texas and began his own law
practice in 1963 in Clarksville, Texas. Lovett
was elected a district court judge in 1996
and retired in 2008. He was instrumental
in forming the Child Welfare Board, which
served abused and neglected children,
and a probation rehabilitation program
using horticulture. Lovett was awarded a
Presidential Commendation from the State
Bar of Texas.
David Cole, Cincinnati ’57, died
July 16, 2011, at age 73. He served in
the U.S. Army and went on to become a
computer programmer and systems analyst
after college. Cole will be remembered for
his love of the great outdoors, culinary arts
and opera.
Philip Harrison, Kansas ’62,
died June 29, 2011, at age 68. A graduate of
Culver Military Academy, Harrison earned a
bachelor’s degree in government from Kansas
University and a master’s in the same field
from Indiana University. He worked as a
teacher at Northwood Institute in Indiana
and was the former director of student
affairs at Indiana University in Kokomo, Ind.
In 1972, he moved back to Lawrence, Kansas,
where he became the vice president of Gill
Real Estate Agency until 1995. Harrison was
an Eagle Scout, member of the Kiwanis Club
and licensed pilot.
Ted Messner, Akron ’68, died
June 18, 2011, at age 64. He was a U.S.
Navy veteran and spent the majority of his
professional years in the healthcare industry.
An active volunteer in several political,
musical and social organizations, Messner
enjoyed cooking and always had a sense
of humor.
Mel Kyser, Texas State-San Marcos
’68, died Aug. 13, 2011, at age 66. He taught
high school English and journalism for more
than 19 years and was very active in the
American Cancer Society and Relay for Life.
Kyser was an active member of First Baptist
Church in Kyle, Texas.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
david ozag enters chapter eternal
Chesapeake Domain Director Dr. David Ozag,
East Carolina ’05, died unexpectedly Aug. 2,
2011, while on vacation in Alaska with his
family. He was 49.
Ozag’s life reflected his commitment to his
lifelong interest in learning. He was a 1980 graduate of Governor Thomas Johnson High School.
In 1984, he received a Bachelor of Science in accounting from the University of Maryland. He
was a Certified Public Accountant.
In 1988, Ozag received an MBA from
Mount St. Mary’s University. In 2001, he received his doctorate in human and organizational systems from The George Washington
University, and that same year, he completed a
master’s certificate in distance education from
Thomas Edison State College. In 2004, Ozag
received a Master of Science degree in management information systems from George
Washington. In 2010, he received a Master of
Science in accounting from the University of
Connecticut. At the time of his death, Ozag
was working on a certificate in financial planning from Florida State University and a second doctorate degree in accounting from the
University of Florida.
Shortly after receiving his first bachelor’s
degree, Ozag started a teaching career at Frederick Community College that lasted nearly 30
years. During that time, he taught more than
260 college classes in 40 different topics at
more than 30 colleges and universities.
In addition to teaching at FCC, Ozag’s fulltime appointments were at Gettysburg College, East Carolina University and Bucknell
University. Additionally, Ozag held appointments at Hood College, Mount St. Mary’s,
the University of Maryland-University College, the George Washington Medical School,
Drexel University and Kaplan University.
Ozag’s volunteer efforts were also significant.
He formerly served on the board of Rockville
Striders, a youth track organization. He also
served for 11 seasons as a volunteer head ninth
grade and assistant boys’ varsity basketball coach
at Governor Thomas Johnson High School.
While teaching at East Carolina, Ozag became involved with the Gamma Eta chapter
as faculty advisor. After experiencing the organization and realizing that his personal values
lined up with those of the Fraternity, Ozag
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
David Ozag (second from left) stands near the
bronze terrapin at the University of Maryland with
Domain Directors Scott Conroe, Cornell ’01, PJ
Best, RIT ’04, Dave Lapinski, Penn State ’74, and
J.J. Lewis, Central Michigan ’04, during Phi Kappa
Tau’s 2011 Capital Conference.
was initiated in 2005. He went on to serve
as the Chesapeake Domain Director for Phi
Kappa Tau. In that role, he conducted numerous chapter-development exercises across the
country and served on several National Fraternity committees.
“David was a true example of a Phi Tau
man … from his lifelong dedication to learning to his support of the organization as a volunteer,” said Phi Kappa Tau Coordinator of
Volunteer Development Tyler Wash, Georgetown ’06, who worked closely with Ozag as a
Domain Director. “I am so grateful that I got
the chance to form a friendship with him. I
will miss his dedication to Phi Kappa Tau, his
commitment to lifelong learning and, most of
all, his dry wit. When David passed away, Phi
Kappa Tau lost one of its best.”
Ozag was formerly a member of the George
Washington University Alumni Association
Board of Directors. He was also an Eagle
Scout.
Additionally, Ozag published numerous
academic articles, primarily on the topics
of trust, hope and organizational commitment. In 2009, he published a book entitled
“Winning Mergers.” He was an avid fan of
the Baltimore Orioles, Washington Redskins,
University of Maryland athletics and East
Carolina University football.
“Dave will be greatly missed,” said Phi Kappa Tau CEO Steve Hartman, Muskingum ’89.
“He was always willing to give his time and
energy for Phi Kappa Tau and for his friends
and family. He believed in the Fraternity for
the opportunity it creates for lifelong friendship and lifelong learning. On a personal basis,
I will miss Dave’s text messages during Redskin games and his easygoing nature.”
Ozag was a member of St. John’s Roman
Catholic Church and Frederick Elks Lodge
#684. He was also a Kentucky Colonel.
“David Ozag is a shining example of what
it means to be a member of Phi Kappa Tau,”
said Phi Kappa Tau National President Greg
Heilmeier, Bethany ’86. “He was continually
striving to provide friendship to all members,
deepen his knowledge of the world, and was
forthright and truthful at all times. His calm
and pleasant demeanor will be sorely missed by
all his brothers.”
Ozag is survived by his brother, Joseph Ozag
Jr.; sister-in-law, Janette; and four nieces and
nephews, who were his godchildren. Additional godchildren included Erin Dickman of
Charleston, S.C., and Eli Crutchfield of Rockville, Md.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
27
Our Chapters
a review of chapter news from across the country.
v i s i t www . p h i k a pp a t a u . o r g t o r e a d m o r e n e w s .
28
Gamma Eta chapter at East Carolina felt the effects of Hurricane Irene in August.
Alpha Delta chapter
at Case Western hosted its
annual Phi K 5K race for the
Hole in the Wall Camps. The
group raised more than $1,200.
Upsilon colony at Nebraska Wesleyan held an open house and colonization ceremony for
alumni and new associate members. Attendees toured the reconstruction at the chapter
house, listened to addresses by prominent Upsilon alumni, and helped install the first Upsilon
colony officers. [From left] Warren Mattox, Nebraska Wesleyan ’69, shakes hands with Jerald
Warren, Nebraska Wesleyan AM, and Zach Schroder, Nebraska Wesleyan AM.
beta phi chapter at
Westminster volunteered at
Garfield Community Farms.
Brothers worked in the
community garden for local
residents.
Gamma Alpha
chapter at Michigan Tech
raised more than $2,000 for the
Hole in the Wall Camps through
a fundraising competition with
Delta Zeta Sorority. The chapter
connected with alumni to raise
donations.
More than 30 Phi Taus from Epsilon chapter at Mount Union, Lambda colony at Purdue and Alpha Omega chapter at Baldwin-Wallace
volunteered at Flying Horse Farms. The men helped the Hole in the Wall Camp get ready for fall sessions.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
29
Delta Pi chapter at Murray State recruited 14 men this fall, which more than doubled the
chapter size from 11 to 24.
Beta Beta chapter at Louisville co-hosted its
third consecutive Kick for Nick philanthropy
event, a non-profit organization that gathers
and distributes soccer balls to children in wartorn countries. The chapter, along with the
Louisville men’s soccer team, collected nearly
600 balls and $1,200 for the organization.
100 people attended the show,
and both Barnes and the chapter
hope to participate in more interPhi Tau chapter collaborations in
the future.
Delta Nu chapter at Wright State attended the inaugural Wright Brothers Day at Wright
State in October. The event, held to recognize the day Wilbur Wright flew the Wright Flyer
III for 39 minutes, was organized by the school’s marketing club, of which Kyle Boze, Wright
State AM, is president.
Gamma Lambda
chapter at Central Michigan
hosted its second annual Phry
Tau philanthropy benefitting
the Association of Hole in the
Wall Camps. Endless fried food,
including french fries, fried Oreos
and fried pickles were served to the
Central Michigan community. The
group raised more than $1,000 for
the camps.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Gamma Tau chapter at
Old Dominion participated in
and raised $3,000 for the Out of
Darkness Community Walk in
Virginia Beach, Va.
Delta Beta chapter at
Evansville hosted a recruitment
event that showcased recording
artist Waylon Barnes, San
Francisco State ’07. More than
Delta Epsilon
chapter at St. Cloud
participated in the Making
Strides Against Breast Cancer
Walk in October on campus. The
group raised nearly $1,000 for the
American Cancer Society event,
sponsored by the SCSU Student
Health Services Center.
Patric Khiev, Cal Poly-Pomona ’11, wrote
a successful $499,000 grant for the city
of Whittier, Calif. So far, he has raised
$2.5 million for the city’s new bike and
running path.
Epsilon Lambda
chapter at Longwood won
the school’s greek week earlier
this fall. The group participated in
events like volleyball, spirit night
and Greek Sync—a night of
creative skits and dances—to take
home the prize.
Don’t see your
chapter represented in
The Laurel? Visit
www.phikappatau.org/chapters,
find your chapter, and
send the group a message
encouraging your brothers
to report their successes
for publication.
Delta omega chapter
at Truman State teamed up with
the Missouri Department of
Conservation to participate in
Share the Harvest, a nationally
recognized initiative where
hunters donate their venison to
food pantries.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
laurels
30
h o n o r i n g p h i k a pp a t a u a l u m n i i n t h e i r p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d p e r s o n a l a cc o m pl i s h m e n t s .
v i s i t www . p h i k a pp a t a u . o r g t o r e a d m o r e n e w s .
•
1970 •
Pete Goltra, Oklahoma
State ’70, received the Award
of Merit from Shriners
International. A past recipient,
Goltra was again recognized for
his outstanding contributions
to the community and
organization.
Jim Rutledge, Louisville ’62, received a certificate of appreciation from the Executive Offices
and Beta Beta chapter at Louisville for his years of service to the chapter. He is the master
distiller and CEO of the Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Ky. [From left] Bill Brasch ’67,
Rutledge ’62, Steve Smith ’68 and Josh Smith ’98.
•
1950 •
David Belew, William &
Mary ’50, was honored with
the inaugural David L. Belew
Legacy Award by the Hamilton
Community Foundation, a
charitable organization with
which he has volunteered since
1961. The namesake award was
given to Belew for his years of
service with the foundation,
including two terms as president
and a current post as trustee
emeritus.
•
1960 •
Mike Rosser, Colorado
State ’61, was elected to the
Research Institute for Housing
America (RIHA) Board of
Trustees. As a member of the
RIHA board, Rosser will help
carry out the group’s mission
to promote and disseminate
knowledge on the functioning,
Learning. Leading. Serving.
Mark Ridenour, Miami
’79, was named to Miami
University’s board of trustees
by Gov. John Kasich. The
executive vice president and
chief financial officer for
Heidtman Steel Products in
Toledo, Ohio, Ridenour will
serve until 2020.
structure, and future of
mortgage markets.
Jim Hamilton, Ohio State
’63, was named the Association
of Fundraising ProfessionalsWestern Pennsylvania chapter’s
outstanding volunteer fundraiser
of 2011. He volunteers with
the YMCA and Forbes Health
Foundation, both of which
nominated him for the award.
John Shirey, Purdue ’68,
recently became Sacramento’s city
manager. He is responsible for the
city’s $812-million budget and a
workforce of about 4,000 people.
Jack Osterholt, Louisville
’68, was named deputy mayor
of Miami-Dade County in
Florida. In the position, he will
work on economic enhancement,
environmental management, and
planning and zoning, among
other things.
Ken Jordan, Wright State ’74, recently
retired after a 30-year career as an
investigative agent for the National
Labor Relations Board, Cincinnati regional
office. During his career, Jordan received
several commendations, including a Federal
Service Excellence Award from the Greater
Cincinnati Federal Executive Board for
outstanding professional performance.
During his retirement, Jordan looks forward
to being active in Phi Kappa Tau, traveling
and supporting local arts organizations.
•
1980 •
Brian Ezzelle, North
Carolina State ’87, is a cargo
claims specialist and 15-year
employee of UPS Freight.
He recently completed his
certification to obtain a
Virginia Auctioneer License
and took over the in-house
salvage freight auctioneer
duties for UPS Freight.
•
1990 •
Matt Parker, Evansville
’93, Phi Kappa Tau’s national
service advisor, and Hole in
the Wall Camper Tim Weaver
received the first-ever Golden
Tee Heroes Award from
Incredible Technologies for their
philanthropic work for Double
H Ranch, a Hole in the Wall
Camp in upstate New York.
This year, “Raising Hell for the
Ranch,” a philanthropy event
that includes a Golden Tee
tournament, head shaving, live
music, raffles, door prizes and
more, raised more than $5,000,
all of which goes to the camp.
B.J. Ruckriegal, Eastern
Kentucky ’96, was named a
Louisville-area CFO of the year
by Business First, a Louisville
business newspaper. He works
for CandyRific LLC, a global
confectionary compay.
•
2000 •
john dean, Louisville ’04,
received his M.B.A. from the
University of Oxford’s Said
Business School in England.
He also landed a job with First
Quantum Minerals in London.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
31
California State University at Chico recently sponsored its annual Chico Experience Week to
welcome new students and parents, invite alumni back for a visit, and recognize those alumni
celebrating their 50-year college graduation. Five Beta Omega chapter alumni attended the
celebration and were recognized on their anniversary. [Front row from left] Jim Allgaier ’58 and
David Martinez ’60. [Back row from left] Tony Edler ’58, Mike Oliver ’59 and Tom Gosnell ’60.
The Laurel | www.phikappatau.org
Colin McCoy, Barry ’94, was promoted to corporal with the Tampa Police Department.
Learning. Leading. Serving.
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9/11
Phi Taus recount their memories more than 10 years later
ii
This 9/11 retrospective was only made possible because of
the many brothers who were willing to share their stories. It is
with gratitude that we present to you this feature.
With the coming and going of the tenth anniversary of 9/11 several weeks ago, we wanted to capture our brothers’ thoughts,
emotions, and memories from that infamous day and how
they are carried into our lives today and tomorrow. While the
rightful focus of 9/11 has been on the tragic scenes of the
World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Somerset County, Pa.,
the impact of that day was felt in all corners of the globe.
Through this retrospective, we were able to capture our members’ grief, hope, bravery and pride in their country. Because
of the volume of responses, we were not able to print everyone’s contribution; however, we have posted every response
in its entirety at www.phikappatau.org/remembering911.
R e m e m b e r i n g
9/11
iii
R e m e m b e r i n g
9/11
iv
Remembering
Why I Serve
By
M i c h a e l
D ov i l l a ,
T
B a l dw i n - W a l l a c e
’94
uesday, Sept. 11, 2001, dawned a beautiful day in Washington, D.C., as
it did across much of the country. I was working on Capitol Hill, about
two years out of graduate school. It was one of those lovely, late summer days with a perfectly blue, cloudless sky and an ideal temperature
as I drove across the Potomac River, the sunroof open on my vehicle,
ready for another productive day on the Governmental Affairs Committee staff of
Sen. George V. Voinovich, Ohio ’56.
My office, part of the Oversight of Government Management Subcommittee,
which Voinovich then served as ranking minority member, was a small, windowless space on the sixth floor of the Hart Senate Office Building. Normally, I would
spend most of my hours in or around that office. That morning, however, I was
scheduled to represent the senator at a breakfast reception for the Partnership for
Public Service, a newly formed non-profit devoted to promoting federal workforce
issues.
I headed over to the Capitol around 8:30 a.m. with Andrew, my subcommittee staff director, to grab some coffee and a bite before the program, which was
scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.
Congressman Dan Burton, the chairman of our sister committee in the House
of Representatives, was one of the main speakers for the morning. He arrived uncharacteristically late, and
it was from him that we learned an aircraft had crashed into both towers of the World Trade Center in
New York City. I am not sure about others in the room, but given the realization that this could not be an
accident, I couldn’t really focus on much of the program that continued until about 9:45 a.m.
At that point, the event wrapped up and we emptied into the corridor outside the meeting room under the West Front of the Capitol. In a room across the hallway was a large TV broadcasting the news and
displaying a burning building that was not either of the WTC towers. It was the Pentagon, just across the
river, where my girlfriend at the time worked.
Andrew and I took one look at the TV, then each other, and without a word quickly began making
our way back toward the Hart Building on the northeast side of the Hill, which required us to pass back
through the main part of the Capitol. We were already moving at a jog through the maze of corridors,
but by the time we reached the first floor on the Senate side, Capitol police were brandishing automatic
weapons and in no uncertain terms directing everyone to run from the building immediately.
As we double-timed it, Andrew, then a newly minted Navy Reserve intelligence officer (something
I, too, would become in less than a year), commented that the nation was at war and he expected to be
recalled to active duty. This ended up being true for both of us, in his case about a month later for service
at the Pentagon. For me, it was about five years later in Baghdad, Iraq.
We arrived back in the Hart Building and went directly to Sen. Voinovich’s office on the third floor.
Capitol police had ordered an evacuation of the entire Capitol complex, including all House and Senate
office buildings. All Voinovich staffers were convened in the conference room and dismissed for the day.
I reemerged into the bright daylight and recall having conversations with a few colleagues that revolved
around the theme: What do we do now? The streets around Capitol Hill and the broader District of Columbia were already clogged with traffic, as if it were rush hour in the middle of the morning.
At that point, my cell phone rang. It was Jeremy Glesner, Longwood ’95, a close friend and fellow
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
v
Washington-area resident. He called to see if I was safe and if I had heard from my girlfriend, which I had
not, despite several attempts to reach her at her Pentagon office and on her cell phone. It was now about
an hour after the plane had crashed into the west side of the building. Jeremy’s was the last call I would
receive for a while, as the phone circuits began to sizzle with more activity than they could handle.
I decided to get in the car and make my
way home to Arlington, just across the river,
usually no more than a 20-minute commute,
perhaps 30 minutes in rush-hour traffic. Unfortunately, on this day, my conveniently located apartment near Pentagon City was also
near … the Pentagon.
Three hours later, I was able to get as far
By J o e Va l e n z a , R i d e r ’ 89
as the north side of Alexandria. Just then, my
phone rang. It was my girlfriend, safely out of
was working in Tower One on the 36th floor when the first
the Pentagon and calling from her apartment
aircraft struck. I was knocked from my chair, and I thought
not far from mine. (She had been out of her
the building was going to topple over. Once I was sure
office at the time of the impact, which was
that the building was not going to fall, my coworkers and I
a good thing. When she returned on Thursstarted a 45-minute walk down the stairs, which unknowday, the glass from the window next to her
ingly to us was when the second aircraft struck Tower Two.
desk was embedded in the side of her com
I evacuated the island before the building collapsed and
puter monitor, having shattered into a thoustill didn’t know what was to happen. So many were lost that
sand tiny projectiles upon American Airlines
day, and so many of us lost someone or several someones who
Flight 77’s impact.) I parked the car and ran
were very special. I was among the most fortunate.
the two remaining miles of my journey.
Every day since has been a day where life continues to
I will never forget coming out of my
define itself. I lost my father in 2004 to heart disease and
apartment the next morning to the noxious
ironically, his birthday was on 9/11. I found and married the
smell emanating from the adjacent Pentamost amazing person and role model for me. Aleksandra is
gon, the still smoldering headquarters of the
my soul mate and a true inspiration in every way, not only for me, but also for our children KaUnited States Department of Defense. Not
trina, Joe Jr. and Nicholas. Our three children teach us every day what life is really about. Plus,
much work was accomplished at the office
I have the good fortune of being a godfather to two girls and a boy, who I love more dearly
that Wednesday, and on Friday, in a service
than they can ever know.
led by President Bush at nearby National
No matter who you talk to, each of us are in some way defined by the events of 9/11. What
Cathedral, the American people officially
did 9/11 teach me? Several things, but mainly to take nothing for granted and that every single
mourned the loss of 3,000 lives in the worst
day is nothing more than a gift. It has taught me to enjoy life every day with those most important
terrorist attack in U.S. history.
to me. It has also taught me to have extreme confidence in the friendships I have built along the
It is a day forever seared in my memory,
way. While none of us can be with every important person to us on every given day, it is important
and most certainly a defining day for our
to never forget the people who made you who you are.
generation that has only strengthened my
How do I feel every 9/11? Lucky. Aleksandra and I chose this day to be permanently embedown desire to continue serving our great naded in our mutual life together: We made 9/11 our wedding day. Every 9/11, we celebrate our
tion both in and out of uniform. FKT
life together, but we also use the day as an opportunity to teach our children to celebrate life with
Remembering
to be Thankful
I
Michael Dovilla serves as state representative
for the 18th Ohio House District and is a lieutenant commander (select) in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He is also a member of Phi Kappa Tau’s
National Council.
respect and humility. FKT
Joe Valenza is a vice president with Hudson Insurance, a subsidiary of Odyssey Re. He spends his free time
with his wife and kids, always working to be the best husband and father possible, and volunteers with the
Multiple Sclerosis Society and Rally Foundation for childhood cancer research.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
vi
Remembering
Stories of Bravery
B y
J o h n
S a y e r s ,
Bethany
’78
W
here I was on the day of the 9/11 attacks isn’t that important. I work
at the Library of Congress, directly across from the U.S. Capitol building—reportedly the target of United Flight 93, the passengers of which
spared the nation one additional horror by forcing a crash landing in a
field outside of Shanksville, Pa. But I was doubly spared that day by being on work travel in San Francisco, about as far away from the attacks as I could be.
But because I work at the Library of Congress, my work and remembrances regarding that
day really began the day after. Our agency, which not only provides the U.S. Congress with
reference, research
and other services,
is also the de facto national library of the United
States. As such, we are a repository of the knowledge and wisdom of all cultures throughout the
ages, in addition to being charged with serving as
the “national memory” for America.
Our directors knew immediately that Sept. 11,
2001, was going to be not only a day to remember,
but also a day that the entire world would experience
and react to. In every one of our custodial divisions,
staff mobilized to gather for posterity original materials, including prints, photos, drawings, poems,
eyewitness accounts and personal reactions, newspapers, magazines, books, songs, maps, videos, and
audiotapes and film.
In about a year’s time, we had collected an archive of tens of thousands of items related to 9/11.
On Sept. 7, 2002, we opened an exhibition, “Witness and Response,” highlighting a selection of those
acquisitions. (The exhibition can be viewed online at
www.loc.gov/exhibits/911/)
Two stories from that exhibition stand out in
my mind to this day. One came to us in the form
of an ad; the other, in the form of a comic strip—
two much-maligned and underestimated media.
The ad (right) told the story of how a blind man
and his partner dog saved the lives of his officemates when the pair was able to lead everyone out
of Tower One of the World Trade Center in utter
darkness, then to the river and safety. The comic
strip (opposite page) was an account of one womMichael Hingson and Roselle by Richard Avedon
an’s volunteer efforts at Ground Zero in the days
When the terrorist plane hit Tower One on September 11, Michael Hingson was
after the attack.
at his desk on the 78th floor. His friend Roselle was nearby. Calmly, Roselle led
Michael and Michael led his colleagues down to the ground floor. But safety was
Both were stories of heroism and hope.
miles away. As they made it outside, Tower Two collapsed and in the smoke and
rubble, Roselle led Michael and Michael led those who fled - all the way to the
river. Michael has been blind since birth and Roselle is his guide dog.
R e m e m b e r i n g
9/11
“We’re a team,” Michael says again and again. And so they are.
&
vii
Inspiration
They were joined in our collections by similar uplifting stories, as well as expressions of grief, demonstrations of fear, and
even screeds filled with hate. We collected it all, the joy and the misery, the inspiring and the despaired, the good and the
bad. Librarian of Congress James Billington often observes that as a comprehensive record of human knowledge, the Library
of Congress must collect items of all viewpoints, in a place where “Mein Kampf” sits on the same shelf as the Bible.
Now, a decade since that
awful day, I see how my city of
Washington, D.C., and the nation as a whole have changed
as a result of the attacks. What
once were open buildings with
grand plazas are now heavily
armed entrances just inside of
fortified barriers. Nationwide,
you can hardly travel without
fear of invasive bodily search,
the peculiar term “Homeland Security” has become a
household word, and a presidential candidate has actually suggested that Muslims be
prohibited from building any
more mosques anywhere in
America, period.
While I am in the business
of memory, I wonder if we remember 9/11 too much. The
10-year anniversary brings back
to the limelight the best and
worst of that day, and I worry
that we have become obsessed
with the fear of attack, more
planes crashing, bombs, poisoned water supplies and that
strange-looking man at the gas
station. I hate that every news network whips us all up into an unnecessary frenzy with their “BREAKING NEWS” graphics
and a constant flashing feed of bad news running at the bottom of the screen. Is this what “Remembering 9/11” means?
We should never forget what happened on that day. At the same time, the events, the fallout and the fear resulting from
that day can’t continue to rule our lives as Americans. As brothers in Phi Kappa Tau, we are at our best when we are leading
with courage and service, not falling victim to suspicion or bigotry.
Let’s instead remember the stories of bravery and inspiration—the blind man who lead his friends to safety, the medical volunteer who saw hope amidst the rubble of Ground Zero. Courage like that is what has made America great today
and through our history, not fear and hate. That should be our takeaway, 10 years later. FKT
John Sayers is a public affairs specialist at the Library of Congress, 10-term elected recorder of the Town of Wardensville, W.Va., and
Graduate Council president of Phi chapter at Bethany. They also let him proofread The Laurel, which sometimes works out okay.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
vii
viii
Remembering
the Grief
I
John Bila, St. John’s ’61,
[pictured at right] volunteers with
the FEMA Disaster Rescue Team
in Palm Beach County, Fla., a
project he joined after 9/11.
By
St .
J o h n B i l a ,
J o h n ’ s ’ 61
used to work three blocks from the
World Trade Center but retired a few
months before the attack. My former
coworkers told me of the pervasive
smell that seeped into the air conditioning systems of the air-tight, modern office
buildings with permanently sealed windows.
I didn’t go to Ground Zero until November because the emotional pain was too raw.
When I went, the smell had not abated. The
story was that chemicals were used to stop any
disease from erupting, but it smelled putrid
and sharply penetrating, like embalming fluid
or formaldehyde, most likely because of the
organic remains of the 3,000 victims who
were atomized.
In the chilled November air, outdoors
smelled like a mortuary. I can’t imagine how
bad the smell was in September and October
when office workers had to walk through it to get to and from work, and then continue to
smell it inside their buildings—for months and months.
My nephew was taking exams across the street from the World Trade Center on 9/11 and
after the first plane hit, they continued to work on them, not knowing what the explosion was.
They were released after the second plane hit and the two buildings collapsed.
He had to walk 10 miles to get home since no mass transit buses or subways were running, and cabs were always chock full. The soot and dust stuck tenaciously to his shoes, and
he put them in his closet (he was a 27-year-old bachelor at the time). We didn’t discuss the
“cremation” event after that.
On the fifth anniversary of 9/11, I asked him what he did with the shoes, and he said he
wanted to keep them. I told him to get rid of them; they were not a pleasant memory to be
reminded of every time he went to his closet. So he finally polished them up and gave them to
a homeless charity.
When I remember 9/11, these are the stories that come to mind. FKT
John Bila is retired from a career in organizational development and motivational psychology
and currently volunteers with the FEMA Disaster Rescue Team in Palm Beach County, Fla. He’s
embraced a lot of excitement in his life, like hang gliding, bungee jumping, riding two HarleyDavidson motorcycles and driving a Lotus street racer. At present, Bila is writing a book, Steel
Rider, about his biking life.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
Remembering How
viii
ix
it Affected the Fraternity
I
By
J o e l
Ru dy,
Bethany
’60
was serving the National Fraternity and Foundation as executive vice president and CEO
on that fateful morning of 9/11. It was a beautiful Tuesday, and we were having our typical
morning discussions at the Executive Offices in Oxford, Ohio.
Suddenly, one of our staff members piped up and said that she had just learned that a
plane had struck the World Trade Center in New York. We quickly gathered in the coffee
area in the lower level of the building where we had a small TV.
It wasn’t very long after that a second plane hit the second of the two towers and rumors
began spreading about a possible attack on the Pentagon. Soon after, the announcement of the
crash in Pennsylvania came. We were all a bit shocked, but it was clear that something terrible had
happened and more could be on the way.
Several of our staff members
in the chapter services department
By M i k e Ga b h a rt,
were spread out around the country. I recall asking Director of
Georgetown ’95
Chapter Services Mike Gabhart, Georgetown ’95, to touch base
y experiences with 9/11 were
with all of our field staff and have them cease all travel, stay where
very interwoven with Phi Tau. At
they were, and call their families. The same was true for our staff in
the time, I was serving on staff
Oxford. Call home, touch base and sit tight.
as director of chapter services.
My memory does not serve me well for the rest of that day
That morning, I drove from Oxother than making attempts to touch base with our chapters and
ford to Louisville to catch a Southwest flight to
asking them to keep us alerted to anything impacting their brotherhood and area in which they were located.
Connecticut to visit our chapter at Bryant Col For me personally, I remember recalling the day that President
lege. I remember I had to leave very early to
Kennedy was assassinated. We were all glued to our televisions then
drive down to Louisville and it was a very clear,
as we were on this terrible day in September 2001, waiting for word
blue-sky day.
on what was happening and what to expect.
I pulled into the parking lot at the airport and was walking to the gate
The days, months, and years that followed 9/11 were filled with
when I noticed everyone watching the TVs. My flight was set to depart
changes in how we lived, how we traveled, and how we thought. This
was a defining moment for many of us, and certainly for our coun- Louisville at about 9:30 a.m., and I had a connection at BWI (Baltimore/
try. For the moment, we appeared to have been caught off guard, Washington International). Our flight never left the ground.
surprised that our country could be attacked. It was a wake-up call We watched the horror on the TVs in the airport. It was a helpless
for us, for revised security procedures and better and improved com- feeling as we heard report after report of the planes being hijacked. It
was also hard to believe that I was supposed to be on a flight to the D.C.
munication amongst our various Federal agencies.
If there was ever a time for leadership, brotherhood, caring area that day.
and pride, it is now, and there are very few organizations that Obviously the trip to Bryant was rescheduled, but about a week latcan promote these critical values of shared respect than our er I flew to New York for Alpha Tau chapter’s re-chartering ceremony at
greek system. Let us continue. FKT
Cornell. I had a connecting flight in Newark. We actually had to exit the
plane on the tarmac because it was such a small jet. I remember looking
Joel Rudy is retired from compensatory positions but remains active on
out at the city, and the place where the towers once stood was still smolderseveral boards, including the Athens Photographic Project and Hillel
ing. That was a heartbreaking site. FKT
Foundation and Advisory Board at Ohio University. Mostly, Rudy and
M
his wife, Marlene, enjoy their two grandsons and two children, while
Rudy continues his major hobby of boating.
Mike Gabhart has worked in telecommunications technology since he left the Phi
Kappa Tau staff in 2004. In 2009, he became an investor and part owner of
Unified Technologies, where he currently serves as sales consultant and education
coordinator for the sales team. Gabhart enjoys spending time with his fiancée,
Heather, and daughter, Georgia Ann. He and Heather are expecting their second
daughter in March 2012.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
x
Remembering
Every Minute
Photographs By Patrick Madden
I
Patrick Madden’s view
of the twin towers from
outside a Manhattan
office building.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
By
Pat r i c k
M a dd e n ,
Cornell
’85
t seemed like an ordinary day at the start. I woke up at 6 a.m. in my hotel room in
Tribeca—a neighborhood in Manhattan—where I was staying during a client engagement
for my company.
It was oddly dark outside for the hour, but it quickly brightened up as the day started.
Turns out my hotel window didn’t let in much light.
After completing my morning routine, I left the hotel for work. I packed my camera in my
knapsack because I didn’t want to chance leaving it in the hotel room.
I took the 1 Train from Chambers Street down to Rector Street in New York’s financial district. At the corner by the subway exit is a take-out food market where I picked up my morning
coffee and a bagel. From there it was a two-block walk to the office, which was empty when I
arrived well before the office opened.
Without a key to get in, I had to wait in the hallway for a while before anybody showed
up. Fortunately, the other floor tenant had just moved out but left their Wall Street Journal
subscription running, so I had some reading material to pass the time. At around 8:30 a.m.,
one of the denizens of the local office arrived and opened the office up.
While discussing some aspect of the engagement we would begin at 10 a.m., another coworker came in and asked, “Did you guys hear a noise?” It was about 8:45 a.m. I hadn’t heard
anything, but others had.
“One of the World Trade Center buildings is engulfed in flames.”
Curious, we all went outside to take a look. Although the building was only three blocks
from the World Trade Center, the office
faced away from it. As I was maneuvering for
a better view, I heard a jet plane fly overhead
and crash. When I looked again, the second
tower was also in flames, maybe two-thirds of
the way up.
Just at that time, the sky began showering debris from the first crash. Not knowing what was going on, I hurried back to
the office just to get out of the way. We
quickly determined that the engagement
was not going to happen that day, then
shut down the office due to the emerging
threat against the financial district.
I walked over to a location that had
a better view of the skyscrapers and took
a number of pictures. While I briefly considered the possibility that the buildings
might fall, it didn’t look like they were going anywhere, so I stopped and watched for
five minutes or so.
I picked up a piece of debris: it was a
1998 memo to Frank Rabinowitz from a coworker. Hopefully Frank found a better place
to work in the past three years, I thought.
xi
When the crowds and the frenzy got too intense for me, I decided to return to my hotel room and
took a roundabout path getting there. As I walked away, I saw the faces of the thousands of people I
shared the streets with and many of them were crying. The rest were watching in shock, horror and
disbelief. Without doubt, many of these people knew people who worked inside the twin towers and
others were just scared by the unfolding tragedy. I was on the verge of tears a couple of times, as well.
I was happy to reach my hotel room: it was an opportunity to calm down, change into comfortable
clothes and watch the TV to find out what was going on. While in the room, I heard what sounded like
another jet flying overhead. Aside from experiencing a brief moment of panic, I didn’t give any more
thought to the noise.
I then called a friend to let him know that I was safe. It turned out that he had no idea what was going
on, and we both looked at the TV only to discover that the second tower had collapsed. Shortly after this,
and after talking to my friend, the hotel’s management evacuated the hotel.
I packed my essentials into my knapsack and left the building, where I discovered that everything
outside was coated in a one-eighth inch of coarse dust from the building’s collapse. After deciding I would
go to my friend Jack’s office in Midtown, I walked up West Broadway for a few blocks, stopping to take
pictures every so often.
While walking up the street and away from the World Trade Center, I heard what sounded like an
avalanche, then I ran for cover. A few seconds later, I decided that I was safe and peeked out from the side
of the building where I was standing. Where the remaining tower stood a few seconds ago (see photo 1a),
there was now a cloud of dust and smoke (see photo 1b). In the course of a few seconds, what was once
the tallest building in the world was now rubble.
Within another few seconds, a billowing cloud of dust hurdled down the street towards me. I ran away
from it, but realized that I was no match for its speed. I turned onto a side street and again headed for
cover. A few minutes later I came back out; the cloud had stopped a block or two behind me. From that
point on, I was safe from any further danger.
Later that month, my chapter, Alpha Tau at Cornell, re-chartered, and while I have so many memories
from 9/11, the chartering is what I like to remember when I think of that time. FKT
Patrick Madden is a consultant for Neohapsis, where he specializes in computer and web application security.
In addition to chairing Alpha Tau chapter’s Board of Governors, he enjoys softball, general aviation and college
hockey. Madden and his longtime partner, Mark, live in Boston, Mass.
Photo 1a
Photo 1b
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
xii
remembering the day
from air force one
By
Da l e
H o l l a n d,
F
kent
state
’87
or me, Sept. 11, 2001, started in Sarasota, Fla. I was visiting the area
after having recently flown in as a crew member on the Air Force
VC-25A, or the Air Force One, the aircraft that was carrying the
president of the United States.
I ate breakfast with my sister and then we headed to the airport so
I could give her and her friends a tour of the airplane. During the tour, one of
the communications systems operators (CSO) came up to me and said, “Maj.
Holland, an airplane just hit the World Trade Center in New York.”
I remember telling my sister that it must have been a news helicopter. I
thought back to a history report I saw as a kid, about a B-25 bomber flying into
the 76th floor the Empire State Building in thick fog, so I assumed something
similar must have happened.
Just 15 minutes later, the same CSO came up to me and said, “Hey Sir,
a second airplane has just crashed into the World Trade Center.”
I looked at my sister and told her, “You have to go now!” I rushed her and
her friends off the airplane and told them to stay in the press holding area with
the news cameras.
You see, as one of the navigators for the Air Force One, I had planned on a pretty straight forward
flight from Sarasota, Fla., to Andrews Air Force Base, Md., transporting President George W. Bush. But
like countless other Americans, I knew my plans for the day were about to change.
Col. Mark Tillman, the president’s pilot, told me to get ready, that the president was en route to the
aircraft and we would be taking off immediately for Washington, D.C. We departed the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport at 9:55 a.m., just 50 minutes after I got word of the towers.
As we were climbing out, the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) air traffic controllers were
busy shutting down the airspace across the nation. I remember one of the controllers telling an American
Airlines flight that had just taken off from Miami, en route to Dallas, to proceed to Orlando and land.
“Negative, we are going to Dallas this morning,” the American Airlines pilot responded.
“Not anymore you’re not,” the controller said. “National emergency, land immediately in Orlando.”
After leveling off, we discussed our options. We knew we could not get the president right back to
Washington, D.C., especially after finding out that the Pentagon was also attacked by an airliner. We had
received various threats that Air Force One was a target. Likewise, we had heard that numerous other locations in Washington, D.C. were targets.
We landed at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., at 11:45 a.m. President Bush wanted to address the nation and put the U.S. military on high alert.
As we landed at the B-52 bomber base, I remember seeing everyone in combat gear, even the guy
marshalling in our aircraft was being guarded by an airman with an M-16 rifle. An armored military
vehicle was used to take President Bush from the aircraft to their command center. Barksdale AFB was
ready for war.
We departed Barksdale for Omaha, Neb., and Offutt Air Force Base, which is the home of the United
States Strategic Command, a location in which the president would be able to communicate with the
National Security Council and Cabinet members. We landed at Offutt at 2:50 p.m.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
xiii
After the president spoke to various national leaders from an underground bunker at Offutt, he decided that he had to get back to Washington. So, at 4:30 p.m. Air Force One departed for a return flight
to Washington D.C., landing at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., at 6:30 p.m.
With all of the events unfolding around the nation, I will never forget how extremely professional
and composed everyone on Air Force One was that day, including the White House staff. People were
not yelling and crying, everyone was very
matter of fact and focused on the task of
ensuring the safety and security of the
president.
It was a surreal feeling flying across the
country in Air Force One after all of the
commercial aircraft traffic had grounded.
There was an eerie quiet on the aircraft raBy J o h n G o o d, o h i o ’ 47
dios, almost like we were completely alone
in the sky as the world below us was crumn the morning of 9/11, I received a message
bling apart.
on my pager to immediately contact the Air Re After President Bush addressed the nasponse Center in Cape Coral, Fla., where I voltion that evening from the White House, I
unteered. The Air Response Center consisted of
looked at my wife and told her to turn the
a number of local residents who were volunteers
TV off. I couldn’t watch the destruction
in
a
phone
bank
where relatives and friends of potential 9/11
any longer. My day had been full of the
victims
could
call
to
get information about their loved ones. Clicontinuous images of death and destrucents
of
the
center
included
many airlines and also some hotels
tion and I had had enough.
and
businesses,
including
the Marriott, which had two hotels
That night, I tried to clear my mind
almost
directly
under
the
twin
towers.
and get some rest, but as you can imagine,
The
phone
number
of
our
center
was flashed upon TV screens
I didn’t sleep. As the images continued to
all
over
the
country
during
news
reports
and quite rapidly our
play over and over in my head, it would
system
went
into
heavy
action.
Our
job
was
to weed out calls
take me a couple of days to finally get a
from
the
media
and
people
who
were
only
curious
and to try
good night’s sleep.
and
help
the
others
find
out
whether
or
not
their
friends
were
Now I can’t believe it’s been more than
on
involved
flights
or
in
one
of
the
Marriotts.
We
received
frantic
calls
constantly
and
heard
many
10 years since the tragic events of Sept. 11.
heartbreaking stories over our eight- to 10-hour shifts each day for three days.
It is very important for us, as a nation, not
The work was exhausting, frenzied and distressing, but at the same time rewarding beyond
to forget the brave, young men and wombelief to know that someone had been helped or relieved to find that their friends were safe. FKT
en that have answered our nation’s call to
military service—to carry out our mission
John Good joined Lawhead Press, Inc. in Athens, Ohio, after graduating from Ohio University. He worked
of fighting terror, spreading democracy and
there, and eventually ran the company, until 1990. He and his wife, Gail, currently reside in Ft. Myers, Fla.,
preserving our way of life. To them I say
where they are loving retirement, loafing and playing golf.
thank you, and I ask you to never forget the
members of the military that are stationed
around the world. Please keep them in daily
thoughts and prayers. FKT
Remembering
the day as a volunteer
O
Col. Dale Holland is currently the vice commander of the 89th Airlift Wing at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. The
wing is responsible for worldwide special missions, communications support for the president and other top officials, and 24/7 alert airlift. He and his wife, Michelle Tontimonia, have been married for 20 years and have
two children, Sid and Alaina.
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
ix
“I was sitting down to enjoy
my breakfast at the Foy Student
Union at Auburn University
when I looked up at the TV to
see a jetliner crashing into the
World Trade Center. I was immediately overcome with shock
and a bitter taste rose up inside
of me for those who would do
harm to innocent people. As a
junior in college then, I decided
to finish school, but the events of that day changed my life
forever. After graduation, I moved home to Nashville, Tenn.,
lost 25 pounds in three months and enlisted in the United
States Army. Seven-and-a-half years later, I find myself a
Veteran of two foreign wars, having served in both Iraq and
Afghanistan.
—Staff Sgt. Daniel Robert, Auburn ’01
“Living in Pittsburgh, we were in line with United Airlines
Flight 93 that crashed in Shanksville, Penn., about 70
miles west of Pittsburgh. A golf outing was being held at
Laurel Valley Golf Club in Ligonier about 50 miles east of
Pittsburgh, and golfers were very surprised by how low a
commercial airliner flew over the course. That was Flight 93
on its way to crashing nearby.”
—Jeff Rivard, Central Michigan ’65
What do you
“I was sleeping in the Beta Mu chapter house when my brother
Adam (fraternally and biologically) called me and asked if I
was watching TV. Groggily I answered, “No,” since he woke
me up. I asked what channel and I vividly remember him
saying it didn’t matter. I turned on the TV to watch the second
tower fall. From this American tragedy, I remember most of the
chapter sitting together in front of my TV for hours.”
—Eric Goetz, Kent State ’99
“Since I am a Gideon, I was on Miami University’s campus
distributing Gideon New Testaments on Sept. 11, 2001. Passing students told me that a plane hit the World Trade Center.
Later, other students told me about the second plane. Many
more students accepted a Bible after these events.”
—Robert Kroeker, Kansas State ’66
“As a 25-year member of the Secret Service, I was traveling
to New York City to protect King Abdullah of Jordan at the
56th session of the United States General Assembly on 9/11.
After the planes hit the twin towers, the king cancelled his trip
and returned to Jordan. I quickly changed plans and traveled
directly to Texas to be with President Bush’s twin daughters.
We increased their protection over an extended period
because we were concerned there may be additional attacks.
Sept. 11, 2001, and April 19, 1995 (the Oklahoma City
Bombing), are two days etched in my memory. These tragic
days claimed seven Secret Service colleagues and friends.
God bless America!”
—Chris Butler, Sacramento State ’82
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
“9/11 was a day that shaped my generation. I woke up
that morning and turned on the TV in my room just in time
to watch the second plane hit the towers. I had class that
morning and remember driving into campus talking to
my girlfriend (who is now my wife) on the phone, getting
updates on the events of the day. I never made it to class.
I spent the entire day sitting in the front room of the Beta
Beta chapter house watching newscasts from New York
with about 20 of my brothers. My parents know where
they were when JFK was shot. I know where I was on Sept.
11, 2001.”
—Dave Walker, Louisville ’00
“It was fourth grade. My bus
was late pulling in so I ran into
my classroom to try and beat
the bell. My run came to an
awkward halt when I arrived at
the door—I had never seen Mr.
M. cry before. My classmates
were staring at the TV in confusion. I slowly took my seat and
joined the distressed classroom
with the most uncomfortable
pain that sharpens every September.”
—Fred Tugas, Old Dominion ’11
xv
“On 9/11, I was working as an assistant district attorney in
Angelina County, Texas. I went to the judges’ offices and they
had the TV on showing the attack of the first airplane. This
was the first notice I received that something was wrong. At
the time, I was serving as the intelligence officer for a Marine
Corps Reserve Infantry Battalion out of Houston. Within 20
minutes of the second plane hitting, my cell phone rang
providing me a warning to be prepared to report to Houston
if necessary. I finished the day not knowing if I would be at
work the remainder of the week or month.”
—Lt. Col. Al Charanza, Texas-Austin ’86
“On Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, I
was with a fellow brother, his wife
and my fiancé in the middle of the
Caribbean Sea on a cruise ship. My
fiancé and I were standing in line
for breakfast when we overheard
the people in front of us talking
about how they were going to get
home. We politely asked them what
they were referring to and they told
us the news. We suddenly were no
longer hungry so we got out of line and went directly to our
cabin to turn on our TV. We were on the ship until Saturday so
there was absolutely nothing we could do, but it made us feel
guilty having any sort of fun with such devastation taking place
back at home. Fortunately, we were able to make our flight
home. Only about 25 percent of the people on the ship were
able to do so. When we arrived in Sacramento, we were the
only plane that had landed for quite some time and the airport
was completely empty. It was very eerie. I have never been so
happy to be home in my life.”
—Jason Smith, Cal State-Chico ’92
remember about 9/11?
“I was sitting in the Burbank, Calif., airport waiting for a
flight to Sacramento where I was to address an assembly
committee on part-time workers. Needless to say, I never
made the flight and somehow the issue before the committee was dropped. Oddly, I do remember that the parking lot
would not refund my $20 for all-day parking.”
—Tom Crosby, Southern California ’75
“I went into work as a police officer at Rutgers University
Police Department to work traffic for the new student pedestrian traffic. We were all called into our headquarters after
the second tower was hit and asked who would volunteer
to go into New York City to relieve the NYPD officers that
had been there all day. Five of us volunteered and soon we
were on our way. We arrived via ferry into New York City
and remained there for 32 hours taking part in securing the
perimeter of the World Trade Center and also the search
and rescue of the victims of this tragedy. The scene was
unexplainable and the visions we witnessed will forever be
in my mind.”
—Jason Farella, Rider ’90
“On 9/11, I was working at a transportation company in
Richmond, Va. When the first plane hit the twin towers,
the dispatchers had it on a TV in their offices. I went to see
because my brother was working in New York at the World
Trade Center complex. I was there when the second plane hit
and immediately tried to call my brother on his cell phone. I
was not able to get him and was not able to get him for several hours. He was working in the building behind the Trade
Center and saw the second plane’s effects on the building
firsthand. He then ran to the docks and luckily was on the last
boat to leave before the twin towers fell.”
—Mark Ferraro, Longwood ’94
“I was in my Morgan Stanley office in Iron Mountain, Mich.,
talking to a woman in the twin towers trying to reach someone in our mutual fund department. All of a sudden, I heard
a scream and the phone didn’t go dead, just empty. It took a
month before I found out that this person was alive and well
at a new location. Unfortunately, my coworker in the mutual
fund department did not make it out. He was lost along with
12 other Morgan Stanley souls that horrible day.”
—John Curran, Southern California ’59
R e m e m b e r i n g 9/11
Visit www.phikappatau.org/remembering911
to read every 9/11 submission.