Indiana Zeta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta at DePauw University
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1311424
The DePauw Phi 2 I n 2013, upon graduating from DePauw with a degree in kinesiology, Derek Mounsey '13 decided to pursue a career in medicine. A master's degree in health administration followed, and finally Mounsey enrolled at the University of Pikeville's Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Little could he have known, however, that the culmination of his medical training last spring would coincide with the worst public health crisis in a century. Brother Mounsey recalls the anxiety of the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when, as a medical student, he worked with patients in Indianapolis-area emergency rooms, intensive care units, and in a nursing home "overrun" with the disease. Mounsey says, "I was doing whatever I could to help." That desire to serve others has been a common theme in the newly minted doctor's lifeāand throughout his Phi Delt experience. During his time as an undergraduate Phi, Brother Mounsey led the philanthropy and social committees, was actively involved in new member recruitment, and was a pitcher on the DePauw baseball team. Like generations of Indiana Zeta alumni before him, Mounsey traces much of his success to the personal growth and professional skills he developed living in the Fraternity and serving in Chapter leadership roles. "Between family, Fraternity commitments, academics, and sports, it became important to use time wisely and to prioritize, which are now probably the most valuable assets I have as a physician." But the personal relationships established during his time as a DePauw Phi are what Mounsey says he is perhaps most grateful for, "My best friends in the Phi Delt house continue to be my best friends today." Joining the Chapter Advisory Board in 2018, Mounsey wanted to further promote the Fraternity experience and to provide guidance to members interested in healthcare careers and graduate school. "I saw some areas where I thought CAB could help," he says, "so I got involved to support the members and to stay invested in Phi Delt." In the often-chaotic preparations leading up to the start of this semester, he took on yet another role: helping the Chapter sort through and interpret the huge amount of medical information and guidance for living in a communal environment. Through it all, Brother Mounsey believes the values of the Fraternity have given him inspiration and direction. "Whether it's striving to go above and beyond for my patients and colleagues, volunteering in the community, or staying engaged with Indiana Zeta, Phi Delt's principles continue to guide and motivate me to become the greatest version of myself." Dr. Derek Mounsey '13 Goes the Extra Mile for Phi Delt By Andrew Miller '13 Jason Cast '21 attends a virtual class in the "Phibrary." House Manager Ethan Sellers '22 wipes down appliances after dinner.