Phi Kappa Theta - Iowa State University

PAGE 5 FKQ FKQ T hanks to online video conferencing, ten Iowa Xi alumni from the late '60s and early '70s recently reconnected—some for the first time in 55 years. Initiated by Tom Polking '69, the virtual reunion brought together brothers who shared life updates, stories, and laughter in a joyful and emotional experience. Participants included Cliff Barta '71, Tom Havey '69, Hollis Hunter '71, Rick Jellinger '73, Bill Jenkins '69, Lyn Mangrich '69, Thad Rude '70, Steve Veit '68, and Jim Willer '69. CATCHING UP ON LIFE'S JOURNEY Each brother shared 10-minute updates on spouses, children, grandchildren, careers, and life lessons. Most were retired or semi-retired, having worked as lawyers, business owners, engineers, federal employees, and also a doctor, psychologist, and financial advisor— diverse paths that all began in Ames. Some recounted personal losses, including illness, divorce, and the deaths of loved ones. As each brother spoke, others chimed in with comments and memories. Updates on fellow Phi Kaps sparked plenty of humor, teasing, and callbacks to old jokes. At times, voices choked a little when remembering departed brothers or reflecting on years gone by.Yet, the mood remained upbeat, as if no time had passed. UNCOVERING LOST DETAILS As memories flowed, so did vivid details—nicknames, parties, pledge traditions, sports, and chapter roles. One alumnus had found his pledge paddle; another held up his old Phi Kap beer mug. They reminisced about fundraising at football games and rushing to Charles City in 1968 to help after a tornado. VIETNAM AND REMEMBERING LOST BROTHERS Many mentioned Vietnam, with several having served. We learned that Tom Havey '69 and Pat Mullin '68 served in adjacent units and now reconnect every Christmas. Richard "Dick" Concannon '68 was killed in a helicopter crash near Phu Bai in 1971. Several had visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in his honor. In 2006, the Richard Concannon Scholarship Fund became a permanent endowment that continues to award scholarships to top academic performers. Jim Willer also mentioned Jim Victor '68, who left a $1.2 million estate gift to Iowa Xi—the largest ever by a Phi Kap alumnus—before his death in a 2018 auto racing accident. SIGNING OFF Plans for another call are already in motion, possibly with more participants. Jim invited others to join him for a future football or basketball game. After a flurry of goodbyes, the call ended. LOOKING AHEAD I was honored to set up the call and thanked the brothers for letting me listen in. Special thanks to Tom Polking for bringing them together. It only takes one brother reaching out to spark something lasting. If you'd like help organizing a video call for alumni from your era or region, contact me at stolpgd@gmail.com. Have you attended or hosted a recent alumni gathering—virtual or in person? Let us know! Every story helps show that Phi Kap is more than a college experience. It's a lifelong bond, strengthened each time we reconnect. Fraternally, Greg Stolp '84 E arlier this year, the undergraduates' newest executive board members, Treasurer Liam Wallace '27, Executive Vice President Alex Todoran '27, and Scholarship Chairman Gabe Castro '27, joined me at the New Officers Academy, held by the National Chapter from January 3-5. The event was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, giving us an excellent opportunity to strengthen our brotherhood over the weekend. More importantly, it provided two days of informative group presentations and individual breakout groups for each position, providing great information on leadership and making it an insightful trip for all who attended. As an all-sophomore executive board, listening to and engaging in conversations about how to lead our chapter to success was invaluable. The individual breakout sessions allowed similar positions from all chapters nationwide to share information and best practices they've used in their chapters, and it's been great putting that knowledge to work this semester. One of the biggest takeaways from this meeting was the introduction of the new PhiKAPP portal, which would simplify communication between the undergraduate chapters and national Fraternity and allow for updated rosters, payments, and recruitment. This streamlined communication would allow all users to work more effectively and enable undergraduate chapters to set up a bank account through the portal. Iowa Xi also earned national recognition this year at the Officers Academy, bringing home three prestigious awards: the Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl Spiritual Development Excellence Award, the Michael T. McSweeney Leadership Development Excellence Award, and a High Distinction Award. These honors reflect the dedication, leadership, and continued pursuit of excellence demonstrated by our undergraduate brothers. As we wrap up this academic year and start looking toward the next one, the undergraduate executive board is committed to building on this success and strengthening our leadership culture by inspiring our brothers to continue striving for excellence in all we do. Fraternally, Kyler Campfield '27 Undergraduate Chapter President The undergraduate and alumni representatives showcase their awards from this year's Officers Academy, held by the National Fraternity. From left: Greg Stop '84, Alex Todoran '27, Liam Wallace '27, Kyler Campfield '27, Gabe Castro '27, and Dan Ahern '85. Zooming In Reconnecting with Brothers after 50+ Years Developing the Next Generation of Leaders Undergraduates Attend New Officers Academy

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