Kansas Chapter of Delta Upsilon at the University of Kansas
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1538141
I t is an honor to reach out to you in my new role as president of the Kansas DU Educational Foundation. I'm privileged to serve at such a pivotal and historic time for our Chapter. As many of you know, we are officially back on campus, and the Chapter is thriving once again. I'd like to share a bit of background on the rechartering process and my involvement with this inspiring group of young men. After my years on Emery Road, my career and family took me to Arizona, where my wife and I raised our children. Fast forward to 2020, and our son Kenzy Rolley '24 chose to attend the University of Kansas. During his campus tour, we visited the DU house, which at the time was sadly closed and shuttered. After his freshman year, Kenzy came home determined to bring DU back to KU. He had the passion and vision to make it happen. Through an introduction to Rod Barleen '97 by Grant Kaufman '92, Kenzy began navigating the uncharted waters of reestablishing DU on campus and reclaiming the DU house—our house. Thanks to the incredible efforts of Rod, John Esau '78, and many others, Delta Upsilon officially received its charter back in the spring of 2023. The founding class included 24 young men. That number has since grown to 50, and the Chapter is working hard to continue recruiting high-quality members! I'm excited to be involved as Kansas DU begins rebuilding its legacy. Delta Upsilon has deep roots at KU, and I firmly believe that with our support, the Chapter will continue to offer a meaningful and transformative experience for generations of young men. As we enter year three of having the Chapter back in the house, it's time to rebuild our support system. There are opportunities for everyone to get involved. We're currently seeking volunteers for both the Housing Corporation and Educational Foundation boards. We also need your financial support to continue offering a top-tier fraternity experience at KU. If you're in a position to give, regardless of your past donor status, please consider making a contribution! (See page 6 for information on how to support Kansas Delta Upsilon financially.) Let's work together to honor the legacy built by those who came before us. Now it's our turn to make a lasting impact. Dikaia Upotheke, Blake Rolley '84 President, Kansas DU Educational Foundation Summer 2025 The Sunflower A PublicAtion of the KAnSAS chAPter of DeltA uPSilon The executive board attends the Regional Leadership Academy in Kansas City. Better Than EVER T H E A L U M N I I M P A C T "What does the ultimate fraternity experience look and feel like?" That was the core question asked at our recent Advisory Board meeting with Chapter leadership, and you would have been proud of the answers our undergraduates gave. Their responses weren't just idealistic; they were thoughtful, honest, and grounded in the values that have always made Kansas DU something special. They spoke of legacy and leadership, yes, but also of belonging and of building a space where young men are challenged, supported, and shaped into leaders who are defined not by what they consume, but by what they contribute. They imagine a Chapter that embodies true brotherhood rooted in shared values, mutual accountability, and a desire to grow together. They envision a culture that prioritizes academics and wellness but still makes room for fun, celebration, and deep friendships. They see our Chapter as a launchpad not just for college success but also for lifelong impact. The conversation was inspiring and provided a clear reminder: they can't build that experience alone. This is where alumni like you come in to be mentors and stewards of this legacy. The next generation is asking for the same things many of us once needed. Now is our time to show up. Making Their Vision Our Reality (Continued on page 2) Help Build What Com es Next