The past year was certainly not the one anyone hoped for, nor expected. Nevertheless, here we are,
and to say that everyone is ready to return to "normalcy" is probably a significant understatement. At Phi
Kappa Psi Texas Alpha, we have used the opportunity to further immerse our members in the core values
and components that set us apart from other fraternities. As I have written about before and shared with
everyone in person, the tenacity and ability for Texas Alpha to pivot and make the most of situations has
been truly extraordinary. Watching these young men have their entire collegiate experience decimated
to virtually nothing was not only difficult to watch, but even more upsetting knowing how important and
enjoyable a well-rounded and comprehensive college experience is.
However, the chapter members and leadership were determined to not allow a pandemic to ruin their college
career. They planned brotherhood events, philanthropic opportunities, modified social events and expansive
programs to ensure continued engagement and participation from chapter members. A very strong emphasis
was placed on mental health and general well-being to help address the pressures of the societal situation
around them. The chapter was awarded two consecutive semesters of Good Standing by the UT Sorority
and Fraternity Life office. They also won Outstanding Innovation in Virtual Programming and an
Achieved Excellence Award during this year's Sorority and Fraternity Life Awards.
No one is more ready to get back to "normal" than these brothers, and they have their eyes set on summer/
fall recruitment to do so – while also striving for a fully rounded fall semester. Multiple conversations with
students, parents, alumni and community partners have been influential in creating a plan to ensure the
AVALANCHE
TEXAS ALPHA | PHI KAPPA PSI | | SPRING/SUMMER 2021
Texas Alpha
Undergrads with
Dr. Lori Hart after a
presentation on Risk
Management & Safe
Planning.
continued inside
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
