Lambda Chi Alpha - Oklahoma State University

PAGE 2 "I originally joined because I looked up to and respected the men that recruited me; that respect has remained strong ever since." For Vince Kirkes AH1402, Alpha Eta's recruiting of quality young men and helping them develop into strong leaders prompted him to take the plunge and go all in. Vince served as High Delta twice, served as High Alpha once, and held the position of IFC at Large Representative for one year. He balanced his social involvement with academics and graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration before earning his MBA from Oklahoma City University. Vince is currently director of market access, West, at Exact Sciences. "Prior, I worked in a variety of roles at Merck for 25 years. I interviewed there in fall of my senior year and started with them two days after graduating in the spring," he recalls. The environment in the Alpha Eta house influenced his career path and work ethic. "Most importantly, the Chapter taught me what 'buttoned up' meant. I was surrounded by successful undergraduate members and fantastic role models that went on to become executive leaders and earn advanced degrees in a multitude of fields." For Vince, the brotherhood was also a much-needed support system. "My last couple of years at OSU were a challenge. I had some personal losses and tragedies that I kept to myself outside of a couple of brothers that really helped me with that struggle. I remain close to those two to this day." He keeps those memories close by staying involved in a big way; he currently serves on the Housing Corporation Board as director of recruitment. "I've been in that role since the board reformed in 2009," he says. "I crossed paths with Brandon Cromwell AH1457, and he let me know that our corporation had reformed and had purchased the house back from Nationals. A few weeks later, Darton Zink AH1400 gave a presentation on the vision to pay off outstanding debt from the old house and, ultimately, build a new one. Many people thought it was a crazy idea, but I didn't. I wrote a check that night, volunteered for the board, and have been active ever since." Vince is passionate about recruitment and pours his time and energy into helping Alpha Eta grow. "During the 2022-23 school year, we signed over 60 associates, most of those in the fall. That represented the largest class of any fraternity! Couple that with being ranked No. 1 nationally among LXA chapters, and you can see our trajectory has undoubtedly changed. The new house helps, but the quality we're filling it with is what's impressive." Vince has been married to his wife, Tara, for 12 years. They have two sons, Reid and Noah. "Reid is in 6th grade and Noah is in 3rd, so they both keep us plenty busy with their activities." Vince coaches his son's basketball teams and enjoys attending all the OSU games he can. Vince stays in contact with an estimated 40 or so of his Alpha Eta brothers. If you're in the area, he'd love to reconnect. You can reach him by sending an email to vkirkes@gmail.com. If you share Vince's interest in keeping chapter growth steady, he has suggestions for how alumni can get involved. "It's easy; keep your eyes and ears open for any young men you know will be attending OSU. Even if there is no interest in the Greek system, get me their contact information and I will make sure they are a priority for our recruitment team." Vince with his sons. Vince and Tara Vince Kirkes AH1402 on Life, Leadership, and Why Recruitment Matters PASSING THE TORCH

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