Phi Delta Theta - University of Missouri

MO ALPHA PHI M I S S O U R I A L P H A C H A P T E R O F P H I D E L T A T H E T A THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI FALL 2018 The ONE OF THE BEST DECISIONS I'VE EVER MADE Andrew Kauffman '15 on Joining a Life-Changing Brotherhood T he first day of classes on a college campus can be unnerving for any freshman, but for Andrew Kauffman '15, being a transplant to the area made the experience even more daunting. "I grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, so I hardly knew anyone at Mizzou when I got to school," he recalled. Eager to meet friends, he made the decision to join one of the Greek brotherhoods on campus. While partaking in recruitment, Andrew met the members of ΦΔΘ and learned about the history of Missouri Alpha Chapter, which was founded at the University of Missouri in 1870. "I could tell right away I wanted to join. I was immediately impressed with Adam Zenker '13, who was chapter president at the time. All of the guys were down to earth and there was a really positive atmosphere." When Andrew received a bid from the chapter, he excitedly accepted. Being a part of the brotherhood proved rewarding and enriching. Andrew took advantage of the opportunities to become involved with MO Alpha, serving as skit director for the chapter during Homecoming and Greek Week, playing backyard basketball with the brothers, and helping lead the brotherhood while serving in executive office. "One of my best friends, James Burst '15, was chapter president while I was vice president—we made a great team," Andrew shared. He credits James with encouraging him to strive for academic excellence throughout their collegiate years. After graduating from Mizzou with a bachelor's of journalism, Andrew went on to become a sports anchor for KMIZ-TV in Columbia, Missouri, where he now serves as the lead sports anchor/director for the station. "We cover Mizzou athletics more than anything else," he stated. "I've covered some memorable events in my career thus far, including the World Series, NCAA men's basketball tournament, SEC men's basketball tournament, SEC football championship, and a 12-hour ultra-marathon in Denver, Colorado." Andrew's passion for broadcast news is evident and inspiring, and he feels certain there is no work he'd rather be doing. Having last visited the MO Alpha house a few months ago for the alumni basketball tournament, Andrew remains closely connected with the chapter. "Our alumni board is awesome," he says. "Chris Widmer '93, Chris Crocker '96, and Travis Condict '93 have all made an impact on me. They were always there to listen to our concerns while I was a member." Andrew makes a special effort to get to know the active members who are majoring in journalism whenever he visits, and overall, is quite proud of the quality of brothers in the house. He also keeps in touch with pledge brothers Mike Ruesler '15, Aaron Martinovich '15, Blake Schiel '15, James Burst '15, and Jordan Wolters '15. "Joining ΦΔΘ was one of the best decisions I've ever made," Andrew revealed. "I would not have the time management or the leadership skills I have today without it. I've met so many incredible people through this fraternity, and I am truly proud to be a Phi." You can connect with Andrew at andrewskauffman61@gmail.com. MEET OUR CAB T he Chapter Advisory Board's purpose is to provide mentorship, direction, accountability, and continuity to the under- graduate chapter of MO Alpha, ensuring transmission of the three Cardinal Princi- ples within our fraternity. We are grateful to the following brothers who have dedicated their time to MO Alpha. Chairman Travis Condict '93 Columbia, Mo. House Manager Adviser Mike Ruesler '15 Bridgeton, Mo. Warden Adviser Jacob Scott Jefferson City, Mo. Financial Adviser Chris Widmer '93 Columbia, Mo. Phikeia Education Adviser Bradford Hutcheson Columbia, Mo. Recruitment Advisers Jeff Lahue '93 Columbia, Mo. Jason Stout '93 Columbia, Mo. Risk Management Adviser Dan Beckett '99 Columbia, Mo. Academic Adviser Mike Phaup '90 Columbia, Mo. Alumni Relations Adviser Matt Beckett '96 Columbia, Mo.

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