Stop Campus Hazing Act signed into law

Indianapolis, December 27, 2024 — The North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) is thrilled that President Biden signed the Stop Campus Hazing Act (S. 2901, H.R. 5646) into law on December 24. The bill was passed by the House on September 24 and by the Senate on December 11. 

A founding member of the Anti-Hazing Coalition (AHC) — comprised of parents who lost their sons in senseless hazing-related deaths, the NIC, the National Panhellenic Conference, Hazing Prevention Network and other organizations — the NIC has advocated for state and federal anti-hazing legislation for nearly a decade.

“The Stop Campus Hazing Act will bring transparency to make a lasting cultural change in student organizations and on university campuses,” said NIC President and CEO Judson Horras. “Our member fraternities firmly believe that hazing has no place in the fraternity experience and every student has the right to learn and thrive in a safe and healthy campus environment.”

We would like to thank the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, the bill’s sponsors Rep. Jeff Duncan, Rep. Lucy McBath, Sen. Bill Cassidy and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, each co-sponsor in the House and Senate, and the AHC parents who have advocated for this federal legislation in the most difficult of times.

While we are excited by the passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, this is an important milestone, not the finish line. We have more work to do to eradicate hazing from all student organizations.

“NIC member fraternities stand united in providing positive, hazing-free, meaningful membership experiences that strengthen and develop young men,” continued Horras.

Uniting Educational Foundations: How Boardable Empowers Effective Governance

At Boardable, we’re more than just a software provider; we are a committed partner to educational foundations dedicated to making a lasting impact. Born from firsthand experiences in nonprofit board management, we deeply understand the unique challenges faced by educational foundations — ranging from engaging diverse stakeholders to managing complex governance structures. Our platform is designed to remove operational friction, allowing you to focus more on your educational mission. 

By streamlining your board’s activities, Boardable enables you to focus on what truly matters — enhancing educational outcomes. We simplify meeting management, centralize critical documents, and improve communication, empowering you to operate more effectively and engage deeply with your strategic goals. Whether organizing on the ground or crafting high-level strategies, Boardable adapts to your needs, ensuring every decision supports your organization’s objectives. 

A Story of Impact: Indiana University Alumni Association’s Journey with Boardable 

The Indiana University Alumni Association (IUAA) faced significant challenges in managing its widespread board, comprising over 100 members who played crucial roles in shaping the organization’s direction. Prior to adopting Boardable, IUAA struggled with inefficiencies that hampered its decision-making and engagement processes, primarily due to the geographical dispersion of its board members and the cumbersome nature of its previous management tools. 

Here is a breakdown of the challenges that IUAA was facing without a board management solution: 

  • Dispersed Membership: With board members spread across various locations, coordinating meetings and ensuring high participation was a logistical nightmare. 
  • Inefficient Communication: The reliance on multiple tools for different aspects of board management, such as email for communication and separate services for document storage, led to disjointed interactions and information silos. 
  • Lack of Engagement: The cumbersome processes and scattered information flow made it difficult for board members to stay engaged and actively participate in decision-making. 

Boardable stepped in as a comprehensive solution that transformed the way IUAA managed its board. The platform’s ability to centralize communication, documents, and scheduling in one intuitive interface profoundly changed the organization’s operations. 

  1. Centralized Information Hub: Boardable was a single source of truth for all board-related information. This centralization helped eliminate the chaos of email chains and multiple document versions, making it easier for members to quickly find and refer to pertinent information. 
  2. Enhanced Meeting Management: The platform streamlined meeting scheduling and management. Features like the meeting scheduler, agenda builder, and minute taker simplified the logistics of organizing meetings, which was particularly beneficial for a board as large as IUAA’s. 
  3. Increased Member Engagement: Tools designed to facilitate discussion and decision-making, such as polls and discussion boards, allowed board members to easily contribute their thoughts and vote on key issues regardless of their physical location. This feature was crucial in fostering a sense of involvement and community among the members. 

The transformation was evident almost immediately. The IUAA board members report significantly improving their ability to stay informed and contribute meaningfully to the organization. Boardable’s intuitive nature reduced the learning curve, allowing members to adapt and utilize the platform’s full capabilities quickly. 

This case exemplifies how Boardable’s specialized features can address the specific challenges faced by educational foundations like IUAA, transforming cumbersome processes into streamlined, engaging, and effective board management experiences. By partnering with Boardable, the Indiana University Alumni Association not only overcame logistical hurdles but also elevated the impact of their governance practices. 

Why Boardable Stands Out for Educational Foundations 

Our expertise with nonprofits, especially educational organizations, enables us to offer a platform that intuitively meets your needs. Boardable is designed to be inclusive, accommodating diverse communication styles and technical skills, ensuring every board member is engaged, regardless of location. 

We pride ourselves on our user-friendly software, which empowers organizations like yours to: 

  • Streamline Management: Efficiently organize meetings, documents, and communications. 
  • Enhance Engagement: Utilize intuitive tools to improve collaboration among members. 
  • Maintain Governance Standards: Achieve and uphold high compliance and governance standards with ease. 

Partner with us on Your Board Journey

Are you ready to enhance your board’s effectiveness and focus more on achieving your organizational goals? Start with a 14-day free trial and discover firsthand how Boardable can transform your board management. Visit our website to explore our solutions, read inspiring success stories, and begin your journey toward more streamlined board management. 

Whether you want to manage your board more efficiently or engage more deeply with your mission, Boardable is here to help. For an in-depth look at our platform, check out our latest feature updates or connect with our team directly. We’re here to support you every step of the way, making your board management tasks smoother and more impactful. 

Groves & McKaig honored with Gold Medals

INDIANAPOLIS, June 19, 2024 – The North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) is pleased to announce two 2024 Gold Medal honorees: Allen W. Groves and Dr. Richard N. McKaig. 

One of the oldest traditions of the NIC, the presentation of the Gold Medal dates to 1940. The Gold Medal is presented for lifelong service to the interfraternal community and is the highest interfraternal honor the NIC can bestow. 

Allen Groves is an ardent supporter of the fraternal experience. He began his membership journey in 1979 when he was initiated into Pi Kappa Alpha’s Delta Upsilon chapter at Stetson University; following graduation, he spent time on the PIKE staff, quickly rising to the role of Executive Director, serving from 1984-87. After his tenure at Pi Kappa Alpha Memorial Headquarters, he began a 16-year career as a litigation attorney, over time becoming nationally recognized for his work.  

Upon retiring from his legal career, Groves seamlessly transitioned back to student affairs at the University of Virginia where he served in various capacities for 15 years. In 2021, Allen began serving as Syracuse University’s Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer.   

“Allen has provided encouragement, comfort, wise counsel and at times tough love to more fraternity men than one could possibly remember. In my over 25 years working with fraternities and fraternity men, there are very few men who match both the experience, character and intellect of Allen Groves.” said Justin Buck, Pi Kappa Alpha Executive Vice President and Chair of the NIC Governing Council. 

Above and beyond his professional roles supporting the fraternal experience, Groves boasts an extensive volunteer resume. His service spans 10 years on Pi Kappa Alpha’s International Fraternity Supreme Council, including as International President from 2004-06; six years on the NIC Board of Directors, serving as Board Chairman from 2012-14; Virginia’s Governor’s Task Force on Combating Campus Sexual Assault from 2014-15; Stetson University College of Arts & Sciences Board from 2013-18; and more. 

A staunch advocate for fraternity, Dr. Richard N. McKaig, a Delta Chi initiate from Ball State University, worked tirelessly to advance the fraternal experience throughout his impressive 40-year career in higher education. Retiring from Indiana University in 2009 as the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, the impact of his leadership can still be seen throughout IU, Delta Chi and the interfraternal community.  

While at Indiana University, Dr. McKaig was instrumental in the work of the Center for the Study of the College Fraternity, serving as its executive director for more than 30 years. In his role with the Center, he advocated for the need to research the benefits of the fraternity and sorority community. Today, the Piazza Center at Pennsylvania State University builds off the research and work of the Center that he so carefully stewarded. Additionally, for more than 35 years, Dr. McKaig served as the Director of the Interfraternity Institute (IFI), a program co-sponsored between the Fraternity Executives Association and IU, mentoring hundreds of campus and interfraternity leaders. 

“Dr. Richard McKaig is the most committed and ardent supporter of the fraternity community, and he embodies the qualifications of the NIC Gold Medal. His 40 years of service has elevated the fraternity experience by using research, collaboration, and good will,” wrote Patrick Alderdice, Delta Chi’s International President, and Karl Grindel, Delta Chi’s Executive Director & CEO, in support of his nomination. 

In addition to serving the interfraternal community, Dr. McKaig’s volunteer leadership to Delta Chi includes two terms on the Fraternity’s Board of Regents; serving as an advisor to the Educational Foundation for 20 years; and co-chairing the President’s Anti-Hazing Task Force. 

The NIC is thrilled to honor Allen Groves and Dr. Richard McKaig with Gold Medals and looks forward to recognizing them alongside their respective organizations this summer. 

###   

Founded in 1909, the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) is a trade association that represents national and international men’s fraternities, including a diverse range of culturally and religious-based organizations, on campuses in the United States and Canada. The NIC is committed to supporting opportunities for young men to seek and form positive, enriching fraternal bonds. The health and safety of students guides our advocacy, standards and education. 

Media Contact: awards@nicfraternity.org 

Awards of Distinction: Past Recipients

The Awards of Distinction program plays a significant role in the advancement of the NIC vision and community impact, as well as the industry as a whole. We are proud to recognize outstanding fraternity men, chapters, supporters and initiatives for their dedication to enhancing and supporting a positive fraternity experience.

Please direct any questions about the awards process and the development of this program to awards@nicfraternity.org.

Awards of Distinction: Past Recipients

YearRecipientOrganization
1940Alvan E. DuerrDelta Tau Delta
1941H. Maurice DarlingDelta Kappa Epsilon
1946Lloyd G. BalfourSigma Chi
1947John MoseleySigma Alpha Epsilon
1948G. Herbert SmithBeta Theta Pi
1949Leroy A. WilsonLambda Chi Alpha
1950Joseph A. Bursley
1951Arthur Ray WarnockBeta Theta Pi
1951Joseph A. ParkAlpha Tau Omega
1951William R. BayesPhi Delta Theta
1952Henry M. WristonDelta Tau Delta
1953Verling C. EntemanDelta Phi
1954Frank H. MyersKappa Alpha Order
1954Maurice JacobsPhi Epsilon Pi
1955Cecil J. WilkinsonPhi Gamma Delta
1956Fred H. TurnerSigma Alpha Epsilon
1957Herbert L. BrownPhi Sigma Kappa
1957John M. McGregorAlpha Tau Omega
1959Horace G. NicholDelta Upsilon
1960Francis S. Van DerburKappa Sigma
1961George S. WardPhi Delta Theta
1962Herman B. WellsSigma Nu
1962J. Edward MurphySigma Nu
1964Henry R. JohnstonDelta Kappa Epsilon
1965Tom C. ClarkDelta Tau Delta
1966Dr. Seth R. BrooksBeta Theta Pi
1966Joel W. ReynoldsDelta Tau Delta
1967Roland MaxwellPhi Kappa Tau
1967Scott TurnerPsi Upsilon
1968George ChapmanTheta Chi
1969Houston T. KarnesLambda Chi Alpha
1970J. Dwight PetersonSigma Chi
1970Stewart D. DanielsAlpha Tau Omega
1971Joe Waggonner Jr.Kappa Sigma
1971Earl D. RhodesTheta Chi
1972Robert W. KrovitzAlpha Epsilon Pi
1972Zeke L. LoflinTheta Xi
1975Tozier BrownLambda Chi Alpha
1976John D. MillerPhi Delta Theta
1977Richard R. FletcherSigma Nu
1978George S. TollAlpha Epsilon Pi
1979Ralph D. DanielPhi Kappa Psi
1979George F. Patterson Jr.Acacia
1981Robert K. Ausman, M.D.Alpha Epsilon Pi
1982Dr. Norman Vincent PealePhi Gamma Delta
1983Ronald ReaganTau Kappa Epsilon
1984Harold JacobsenSigma Pi
1984Robert B. StewartAlpha Chi Rho
1985Ewing T. BolesPhi Kappa Tau
1985Barry GoldwaterSigma Chi
1986Jack L. AnsonPhi Kappa Tau
1987Dr. Ronald W. RoskensSigma Tau Gamma
1987Richard H. SudhelmerTriangle
1988Paul K. AddamsAlpha Chi Rho
1988Sidney H. GullerSigma Alpha Mu
1989Stanley I. FishelZeta Beta Tau
1989Williams S. ZermanPhi Gamma Delta
1990Dr. John L. BlackburnAlpha Sigma Phi
1991Dr. Karlem RiessPhi Kappa Sigma
1991Edwin L. HemingerDelta Tau Delta
1992William T. Bringham, CAESigma Chi
1992Robert J. Miller, CAEPhi Delta Theta
1992T.J. Schmitz, CAETau Kappa Epsilon
1992William P. SchwartzSigma Alpha Mu
1993Howard R. AlterTheta Chi
1993Durward W. OwenPi Kappa Phi
1993Henry B. PoorPsi Upsilon
1993George W. SpasykLambda Chi Alpha
1994Patrick I. BrownAlpha Tau Omega
1994Philip H. CohenAlpha Epsilon Pi
1994Maureen S. SyringDelta Gamma
1994Ralph S. RumseyZeta Psi
1995Edward M. KingSigma Chi
1995Dr. William R. NesterPi Kappa Alpha
1995Mary PetersonAlpha Phi
1996George BeckPi Lambda Phi
1996Jean W. ScottPi Beta Phi
1996Rodney Williams Jr.Tau Kappa Epsilon
1997Charles V. "Chuck" LoringPhi Sigma Kappa
1997Richard S. SimonZeta Beta Tau
1998Hiliary H. HollowayKappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
1998Russell G. MawbyAlpha Gamma Rho
1998Mary Burt Brooks NashAlpha Xi Delta
1998Frank J. Ruck Jr.Sigma Phi Epsilon
1999Brian BrooksDelta Sigma Phi
2000Maurice “Mo” LittlefieldSigma Nu
2001President George W. BushDelta Kappa Epsilon
2002Bill MuseTau Kappa Epsilon
2004R. Keith GilchrestAlpha Kappa Lambda
2004Idris TraylorKappa Alpha Order
2004First Lady Laura Bush*Kappa Alpha Theta
2005Sidney DunnAlpha Epsilon Pi
2005Gregory HauserDelta Chi
2005William JenkinsPhi Kappa Tau
2006Jonathan BrantBeta Theta Pi
2006Edward A. PeasePi Kappa Alpha
2007Phil JosephsonAlpha Gamma Rho
2008Bill BernierSigma Tau Gamma
2009Raymond L. OriansPi Kappa Alpha
2009Jon C. WilliamsonLambda Chi Alpha
2010Wilford A. ButlerDelta Upsilon
2010James EstesKappa Alpha Order
2011Rick BarnesFarmHouse
2011Kenneth TraceySigma Alpha Epsilon
2011Jim VredenburghTheta Xi
2011Marc P. KatzAlpha Epsilon Pi
2012Raymond GalbrethDelta Chi
2012David WestolTheta Chi
2013James E. Greer, Jr.Zeta Beta Tau
2013Dr. Edward H. HammondSigma Phi Epsilon
2013Robert D. LyndKappa Delta Rho
2013Robert F. Marchesani Jr.Phi Kappa Psi
2014William E. ForesterKappa Alpha Order
2014Dr. Phillip SummersPi Kappa Phi
2015Darold W. LarsonAcacia Fraternity
2015Howard C. PickettSigma Nu
2015Norval B. Stephens, Jr.Delta Tau Delta
2016Robert OffFarmHouse Fraternity
2018Ned KirklinKappa Sigma
2019James B. RussellDelta Tau Delta
2019William A. Martin, IIIPhi Gamma Delta
2021Mark E. TimmesPi Kappa Phi
2022Dr. Victor BoschiniSigma Nu Fraternity
2022Dr. Thomas GoodaleSigma Alpha Epsilon
2023Eugene D. "Buddy" CotéPhi Gamma Delta
2023Michael A. GreenbergSigma Chi
2024Allen W. GrovesPi Kappa Alpha
2024Dr. Richard N. McKaigDelta Chi
2025Kevin O'NeillLambda Chi Alpha
YearRecipientOrganization
1980Hugh D. Scott Jr.Alpha Chi Rho
1980Carroll K. SimonsPhi Kappa Sigma
1980Marsh WhiteDelta Chi
1981John J. RhodesBeta Theta Pi
1982James H. McLaughlinZeta Psi
1982Robert H. ShafferSigma Chi
1984Fred L. DixonPhi Gamma Delta
1985James S BradySigma Chi
1985President George H. W. BushDelta Kappa Epsilon
1985John W. GalbreathDelta Tau Delta
1986Dr. John W. RyanKappa Sigma
1987Ellison S. OnizukaTriangle
1987Samuel H. ShapiroAlpha Epsilon Pi
1989Edward M. KingSigma Chi
1989Eileen C. StevensAlpha Phi
1990Edward A. PeasePi Kappa Alpha
1992James E. GreerZeta Beta Tau
1992Beth SaulAlpha Epsilon Phi
1992Dr. Ronald J. TaylorZeta Beta Tau
1992Charles N. White Jr.Sigma Phi Epsilon
1993Wayne S. ColvinSigma Phi Epsilon
1993Tom W. DevineSigma Alpha Epsilon
1993Mike PosnickSigma Alpha Mu
1994Robert F. ManleyManley Burke & Fisher
1994Jeff LinkenbachMontana State University
1995Jeffrey W. ShuckSigma Chi
1996William N. LaForgePi Kappa Alpha
1996David L. WestolTheta Chi
1997Joel GoldmanSigma Alpha Mu
1997Richard N. McKaigDelta Chi
1997T.J. SullivanPi Kappa Phi
1998Barbara B. HollmannPhi Mu
1999John HortonPhi Gamma Delta
1999Nancy LeonardAlpha Chi Omega
2000Michael GordonKappa Alpha Psi
2000Robert L. LivingstonDelta Kappa Epsilon
2001Robert Dole Kappa Sigma
2001Elizabeth DoleDelta Delta Delta
2001Richard LugarBeta Theta Pi
2002Kevin O’NeillLambda Chi Alpha
2002James J. CareyZeta Psi
2002Don MillsTexas Christian University
2006Wynn SmileyAlpha Tau Omega
2007Stephanie Tubbs JonesDelta Sigma Theta
2007Pete SessionsPi Kappa Alpha
2008Kent GardnerKappa Alpha Order
2009Mark V. AndersonSigma Chi
2009Mike LongSigma Nu
2011Daniel ShaverSigma Chi
2013Kim NovakDelta Gamma
2014Lori HartAlpha Omicron Pi
2014Victor FeltsSigma Chi
2015Arthur J. Hurt IIISigma Phi Epsilon
2015James B. “Jim” Ewbank IIPhi Delta Theta
2015John W. HartmanSigma Phi Epsilon
2017Dr. Mari Ann CallaisTheta Phi Alpha
2017Jean MrasekChi Omega
2017Greg SingletonKappa Alpha Order
2017Bonnie WunschAlpha Epsilon Phi
2019John M. GreenPhi Kappa Tau
2020Keith J. SteinerDelta Tau Delta
2021Linda WrightCreative Risk Solutions
2022Betsy CorridanKappa Alpha Theta
2022Dr. Dawn WieseDelta Delta Delta
2025Dr. Robert Britton “Brit” KatzSigma Nu
2025Dr. Richard WalkerSigma Alpha Epsilon
YearRecipientMember OrganizationAdvising Institution
2017Dr. Robert TignerPhi Gamma DeltaAdvisor to Beta Theta Pi at Truman State University
2017Wayne E. DawsonKappa Alpha OrderUniversity of Arizona
2017Dr. Carolyn WhittierAlpha Omicron PiFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Valparaiso University
2018Derek BergerPi Kappa PhiBall State University
2018Jason DooleySigma NuKennesaw State University
2019Donald AbelsFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Louisiana State University
2019John GreenSigma NuUniversity of Mississippi
2019Jordan KocherFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Kansas State University
2019Jerry MillerSigma Alpha MuMiami University
2019Amelious Whyte, Ph.D.Phi Gamma DeltaUniversity of Minnesota
2020Brandon CutlerFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Purdue University
2020Arthur E. Doctor, Jr., Ed.D.Fraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at University of Mississippi
2020Bill MillerPhi Gamma DeltaPurdue University
2020Jennifer Pierce ThomasFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2020David A. von NirschlSigma NuUniversity of Illinois
2021Christopher FoesteSigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2021Jerrell Sherman, Ph.D.Fraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Sam Houston State University
2021Jennifer ZamoraDelta ZetaAdvisor to Beta Theta Pi at University of Texas at Austin
2022
Will DeVineySigma NuFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at University of Tulsa
2022
Jeff HollingsSigma NuPurdue University
2022
Simonne HormanPhi Sigma SigmaFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at University of Florida
2022
Todd SalenPhi Kappa PsiUniversity of Illinois
2023Zach AlbersPhi Kappa PsiValparaiso University
2023Becki BairAdvisor to Sigma Alpha Epsilon at University of Toledo
2023Stephen DominyFraternity/Sorority Life Advisor at Florida International University
2023Matthew KiflePhi Kappa PsiUniversity of Texas at Austin
2023Scott RutledgeSigma NuArizona State University
2023David ShookPi Kappa PhiIndiana University
2024Joseph AdamczykAcaciaRensselaer Polytechnic Institute
2024Eric BullerBeta Theta PiMiami University
2024Glenn HayDelta Sigma PhiMissouri University of Science and Technology and Michigan Technological University
2024Chris HupePhi Gamma DeltaKansas State University
2024Travis LavergnePi Kappa AlphaMcNeese State University
2024Brent ListerSigma ChiUniversity of North Florida
2024Jason ColombiniZeta Beta TauCalifornia Polytechnic State University
2025J. Scott ClelandAcacia FraternityOhio University
2025Edward RobinsonPhi Gamma DeltaBucknell University
2025William “Bill” GoodPhi Kappa PsiIowa State University
2025Richard PiercePi Kappa PhiCollege of Charleston
YearRecipientOrganizationInstitution
2002Donald G. “Dipper” DiPaoloBeta Theta Pi
2002Robert JosephSigma Chi
2003Bruce BaggeTheta Chi
2003William E. DreyerKappa Alpha Order
2004Rhen C. BassKappa Alpha Psi
2004Dr. Neal R. BerteSigma Alpha Epsilon
2004Charlie WarnerBeta Theta Pi
2005Bruce RogersPi Kappa Phi
2006Raymond Bottom, Jr.Kappa Alpha Order
2007Dick RasmussonPsi Upsilon
2007William “Bill” TragosSigma Phi Epsilon
2008Brian BreittholzPhi Kappa Tau
2008Robert CorrieKappa Delta Rho
2008Dr. Phillip SummersPi Kappa Phi
2009Patrick AlderdiceDelta Chi
2009Dr. Myles BrandAlpha Epsilon Pi
2009Gen. Richard Myers, USAF (Ret.)Sigma Alpha Epsilon
2010TJ SullivanPi Kappa Phi
2011Stephen Ehrlich, Esq.Zeta Beta Tau
2011Johnny IsaksonSigma Alpha Epsilon
2012Dr. P. Thomas PurintonBeta Theta Pi
2012Ben W. Satcher, Jr.Kappa Alpha Order
2013Dr. Charles EberlySigma Phi Epsilon
2013Lee A. MillerSigma Alpha Epsilon
2014Dr. Gregory SingletonKappa Alpha Order
2014Dr. Mike McReeSigma Nu
2014Dr. Brian KuriskySigma Pi
2015Carlton BennettTheta Chi
2015Dr. Robert L. BurnsSigma Pi
2015Gov. John CarlinFarmHouse
2015Irving M. ChaseZeta Beta Tau
2015Donald FitesPhi Kappa Psi
2015Dr. Edward SpencerSigma Chi
2015Mike YoungAlpha Sigma Phi
2019Michael EspositoKappa Alpha Order
2020Gary AusmanUniversity of Washington
2020Eric BurwellIllinois State University
2020Jeremy InabinetPi Kappa Phi
2021W.P. “Buz” Barlow, Jr.Sigma Tau GammaUniversity of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
2022Dr. Michael R. Gustafson IIChi PsiDuke University
2023Stan BughSigma Nu
2023Dr. Juan GuardiaPhi Iota Alpha
2023Patrick JesseeDelta Sigma Phi
2023Andrew NunemakerSigma Chi
2023Terrance RuonaAcacia
2024Bruce ArmstrongSigma Nu
2024Robert GomezPhi Iota Alpha
2025Martin CobbBeta Theta Pi
2025Michael HillerSigma Nu
2025Joe PavicicPi Kappa Alpha
2025William A. “Bill” UticAcacia
YearOrganizationInstitution
2002Phi Kappa PsiUniversity of Iowa
2002Phi Kappa TauCentre College
2003Alpha Tau OmegaKansas State University
2003Pi Kappa PhiTexas Christian University
2003Zeta PsiNebraska Wesleyan University
2004Alpha Tau OmegaUniversity of North Alabama
2004Beta Theta PiMiami University
2004Delta ChiGeorgia Institute of Technology
2004Pi Kappa PhiUniversity of Colorado Boulder
2004Sigma Alpha EpsilonIowa State University
2005Alpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Maryland
2005Beta Theta PiUniversity of Nebraska
2005Delta Sigma PiTransylvania University
2005FarmHouseAuburn University
2005Zeta Beta TauUniversity of Rhode Island
2006Alpha Sigma PhiOhio Wesleyan University
2007Alpha Tau OmegaBaylor University
2007Delta ChiUniversity of Kansas
2008Alpha Epsilon PiUniversity of Maryland
2008Alpha Tau OmegaEmory University
2008Theta ChiMissouri State University
2009Beta Theta PiCase Western Reserve University
2010Alpha Tau OmegaBelmont University
2010Delta ChiGeorgia Institute of Technology
2010Sigma Alpha EpsilonLoyola University Chicago
2011Alpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Alabama
2011Beta Theta PiUniversity of San Diego
2011FarmHouseIowa State University
2011Sigma Phi EpsilonUniversity of Illinois
2012Alpha Tau OmegaBaylor University
2012Kappa Delta RhoChristopher Newport University
2012Sigma NuUniversity of Georgia
2012Theta ChiMissouri State University
2013Alpha Tau OmegaEmory University
2013Phi Mu DeltaSusquehanna University
2013Pi Kappa AlphaCalifornia State University, Fresno
2013Pi Kappa PhiArizona State University
2013Sigma ChiUniversity of Louisville
2014Delta ChiGeorgia Institute of Technology
2014Kappa Alpha OrderWestminster College
2014Pi Kappa PhiFurman University
2014Sigma NuButler University
2014Theta ChiMissouri State University
2015Alpha Tau OmegaOklahoma State University
2015Beta Theta PiUniversity of Utah
2015Kappa Alpha OrderAustin Peay State University
2015Phi Gamma DeltaBall State University
2015Phi Kappa SigmaIllinois Institute of Technology
2015Pi Kappa AlphaIndiana State University
2015Pi Kappa AlphaWayne State University
2015Sigma NuUniversity of Minnesota
2015Theta XiKansas State University
2015Zeta Beta TauNew York University
2016Alpha Tau OmegaBelmont University
2016FarmHouseKansas State University
2016Sigma NuButler University
2016Theta ChiMissouri State University
2017Alpha Tau OmegaTroy University
2017Beta Theta PiCentre College
2017Beta Theta PiUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln
2017Delta UpsilonKansas State University
2017Pi Kappa PhiWinthrop University
2017Sigma Alpha EpsilonCarnegie Mellon University
2017Theta XiGeorgia Institute of Technology
2018Alpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Alabama
2018Beta Theta PiUniversity of Kentucky
2018Delta Sigma PhiKansas State University
2018Lambda Theta PhiUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison
2018Sigma NuUniversity of Minnesota
2018Theta ChiRutgers University
2019Delta Sigma PhiMissouri University of Science & Technology
2019Pi Kappa PhiPurdue University
2019Sigma NuUniversity of Mississippi
2019Sigma Phi EpsilonLouisiana State University
2019Theta XiKansas State University
2020Beta Theta PiCentre College
2020Chi PsiUniversity of Kentucky
2020Pi Kappa PhiUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte
2020Sigma Alpha EpsilonUniversity of Evansville
2020Sigma NuUniversity of California, Davis
2020Theta ChiUniversity of Arkansas
2021Delta ChiGeorgia State University
2021Delta ChiTruman State University
2021Pi Kappa AlphaTexas A&M University
2021Sigma Alpha EpsilonKansas State University
2021Sigma Alpha MuRochester Institute Of Technology
2021Sigma NuUniversity of Georgia
2022Delta ChiTruman State University
2022Delta ChiUniversity of Nebraska Omaha
2022Delta Sigma PhiIndiana State University
2022Delta Sigma PhiKansas State University
2022Phi Kappa ThetaWorcester Polytechnic Institute
2022Sigma Alpha EpsilonIndiana State University
2022Sigma Alpha MuUniversity of Evansville
2022Sigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2022Sigma Tau GammaMichigan Technological University
2023Delta ChiGeorgia Institute of Technology
2023Delta ChiVirginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
2023Pi Lambda PhiThe Ohio State University
2023Sigma Alpha EpsilonKansas State University
2023Sigma Alpha MuUniversity of Maryland
2023Sigma NuArizona State University
2023Sigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2023Zeta Beta TauCalifornia Polytechnic State University
2024AcaciaKansas State University
2024Beta Theta PiUniversity of Texas at Austin
2024Delta ChiMiami University
2024Delta ChiTruman State University
2024Delta Sigma PhiMissouri University of Science and Technology
2024Delta Tau DeltaUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney
2024Tau Delta PhiMonmouth University
2025Alpha Tau OmegaSamford University
2025Beta Theta PiUniversity of Iowa
2025Delta Tau DeltaSacred Heart University
2025Theta XiKansas State University
2025Zeta Beta TauMonmouth College
YearRecipientOrganizationInstitution
2002William Brian CaseboltPi Kappa Phi
2002Sam CentellasSigma Lambda Beta
2002Les FugatePhi Kappa Tau
2003G. Wogan BernardKappa Alpha OrderWashington & Lee University
2003Jess MetzmeierPhi Kappa TauCentre College
2003Brand NewlandPhi Kappa PsiUniversity of Iowa
2003Jeff RundellBeta Theta PiUniversity of Kansas
2004P.J. CaposeyLambda Chi AlphaEastern Illinois University
2004Christopher CookKappa Alpha OrderJacksonville State University
2004Rodrigo DuarteSigma Phi EpsilonFlorida International University
2004Zackary EdwardsTheta ChiTexas Tech University
2004Justin ShaferSigma Phi EpsilonUniversity of Cincinnati
2004Aaron SidersDelta UpsilonKansas State University
2005David BuchananPi Kappa PhiUniversity of Kansas
2005Michael James MayerTheta ChiUniversity of Central Missouri
2005Christian J. MieleSigma Pi Towson University
2005Andrew NewtonAlpha Tau OmegaKansas State University
2005Drew WiseTheta ChiUniversity of Central Missouri
2006Brett TrappAlpha Tau OmegaAlpha Tau Omega
2007Matthew BrawnerBeta Theta PiTruman State University
2007Joseph GrimmTheta ChiWashington State University
2007Todd ProkopTau Kappa EpsilonWorchester Polytechnic Institute
2008Dan BlandAlpha Tau OmegaBaylor University
2008Josh FosterPi Kappa AlphaUniversity of the Pacific
2008Steve HoltsclawPi Kappa PhiPurdue University
2008Erik LangeTheta ChiOhio Northern
2009Brian GettingerSigma Alpha EpsilonUniversity of Missouri – Kansas City
2009Jonathan KruegerAlpha Kappa LambdaEmporia State University
2009Kevin ReillyTheta ChiUniversity of Florida
2009Thomas ReivesAlpha Tau OmegaRose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2009John SavoyAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Maryland
2010Terrence “Sean” DunnLambda Chi AlphaUniversity of Tennessee at Chattanooga
2010Nicolai LundyAlpha Tau OmegaEmory University
2010Daniel NewmannTheta ChiCase Western Reserve University
2010Branden StewartDelta Sigma PhiGrand Valley State University
2011Noah LevinSigma Alpha EpsilonCarnegie Mellon University
2011Jonathan RogersAlpha Tau OmegaRose-Hulman Institute of Technology
2011Eddie Higginbotham IVTheta ChiNorthwestern State University
2011Spencer MontgomerySigma NuUniversity of South Florida
2012TJ BardBeta Theta PiPennsylvania State University
2012Greg WaterworthKappa Alpha OrderUniversity of Maryland
2012Jake WellmanAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of New Mexico
2013Joshua BeekmanSigma Phi EpsilonUniversity of Toledo
2013Michael EberhardPi Kappa AlphaCalifornia State University, Fresno
2013Kenneth HallSigma Alpha EpsilonUniversity of New Haven
2013Nathan McDanielPi Kappa PhiTexas State University
2013Scott TurkTheta ChiMissouri State University
2014Luke ChristieKappa Alpha OrderFurman University
2014J. Wells EllenbergSigma NuUniversity of Georgia
2014Matthew DeptolaDelta Sigma PhiThe Ohio State University
2014Jason ColombiniZeta Beta TauCalifornia Polytechnic State University
2014Michael SteltenkampAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Pennsylvania
2014Jesse FosheimPhi Kappa PsiValparaiso University
2014Marshall MillerSigma Phi EpsilonValparaiso University
2015Jesse BrownKappa Alpha OrderMidwestern State University
2015Marlan James GoldenAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Alabama
2015David LynchKappa Alpha OrderSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
2015Anthony NaquinSigma Alpha EpsilonNicholls State University
2015Anish SharmaSigma NuUniversity of Mississippi
2015Logan StangerSigma Alpha EpsilonBall State University
2015Joseph SweeneyPhi Mu DeltaUniversity of New Hampshire
2015Jeremy TermanSigma ChiUniversity of Missouri
2015Elliott WiegmanSigma Alpha EpsilonWorcester Polytechnic Institute
2016Ryan D’ErcoleSigma Phi Epsilon
2016William “Marcus” GibsonTheta Chi
2016Peter IngeAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of Alabama
2016Agassy RodriguezLambda Theta PhiUniversity of Florida
2016Nicholas “Nick” SweetmanDelta Sigma PhiArizona State University
2017Nicholas DePeelPhi Mu DeltaOhio Northern University
2017William GradlePi Kappa PhiWestern Illinois University
2017Aditya RegaswamyTheta ChiCase Western Reserve University
2017Jesse SheldonKappa Alpha OrderUniversity of Washington
2017Eric SmithSigma Phi EpsilonValparaiso University
2017Kyle SteppAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of New Mexico
2018Doug AbramowitzZeta Beta TauPurdue University
2018Connor AllerPi Kappa PhiMissouri State University
2018Rhys CollinsSigma NuEast Carolina University
2018Ramiro JimenezAcaciaIllinois State University
2018Juan HernandezLambda Theta PhiUniversity of Northern Iowa
2018Otha NelsonSigma NuNorthwestern State University
2018Mike PoggemillerAlpha Gamma RhoIowa State University
2018Lucas RenzSigma Phi EpsilonKansas State University
2018Patrick RyanSigma Phi EpsilonUniversity of Toledo
2018Jack SchimpfBeta Theta PiUniversity of Missouri
2018Justin WhitakerPhi Gamma DeltaSam Houston State University
2019Gage CalhoonSigma NuOklahoma State University
2019Joshua ChodorZeta Beta TauUniversity of Missouri
2019Matthew ConleySigma Phi EpsilonDuke University
2019Connor GanlySigma NuButler University
2019Brandon HansonAlpha Gamma RhoIowa State University
2019John LordPi Kappa AlphaPennsylvania State University
2019Brandon McCoyTheta ChiMissouri State University
2019Price McGiffertKappa Alpha OrderUniversity of Alabama
2019Noah MichelsohnAlpha Tau OmegaUniversity of New Mexico
2019Matthew MindrupDelta Sigma PhiKansas State University
2019David NavadehBeta Theta PiCornell University
2019Dustin WinstonAlpha Gamma RhoUniversity of Idaho
2020Elliot BeckSigma Tau GammaUniversity of Arizona
2020Andrew BinderDelta Sigma PhiThe Ohio State University
2020Chandler CreanPi Kappa PhiUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte
2020Frederick DauphinSigma Alpha EpsilonCarnegie Mellon University
2020Max HarbergZeta Beta TauUniversity of Texas at Austin
2020Justin JacobsSigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2020Nathan LongoPi Kappa PhiPurdue University
2020Jason StoneSigma ChiUniversity of California, Santa Barbara
2020Grant ZehnderDelta Sigma PhiMiami University
2021George HoyePi Kappa AlphaIndiana University
2021Kirayle JonesSigma Tau GammaNorthwest Missouri State University
2021Patrick LucittPi Kappa PhiTruman State University
2021Dominic LupoKappa Alpha OrderUniversity of Tulsa
2021Paul MarkosSigma NuUniversity of Mississippi
2021Rajeev NunnaSigma Alpha MuDrexel University
2021Clark PurdyAcaciaIllinois State University
2021Ian RossBeta Theta PiUniversity of Michigan
2022Cole BarnhillSigma NuUniversity of Mississippi
2022Andrew BreasurePi Kappa PhiNorth Carolina State University
2022Denson ClarkAlpha Tau OmegaAuburn University
2022Chris GomezPhi Kappa TauUniversity of California, Long Beach
2022Ryan JeffriesSigma ChiOklahoma State University
2022Noah LongPi Kappa AlphaUniversity of Nebraska Omaha
2022Dylan MaceDelta Tau DeltaKent State University
2022Sean O’BrienSigma ChiUniversity of Tulsa
2022Logan PhillipsSigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2022Tanner RankDelta Sigma PhiSt. Cloud State University
2022Lyle YaggySigma Alpha MuMiami University
2023Jacob BeaversPi Kappa PhiUniversity of Missouri
2023Matthew FischerAlpha Gamma RhoUniversity of Wisconsin-River Falls
2023Dominic FratturaSigma NuArizona State University
2023Jonathan GuaettaPhi Mu DeltaRobert Morris University
2023Ryan McMinnPi Kappa AlphaMississippi State University
2023Nicolas MedelDelta Sigma PhiPurdue University
2023Reed OfsthunSigma ChiUniversity of Idaho
2023Chuck PerryBeta Theta PiTruman State University
2023Nathan SatterfieldBeta Theta PiUniversity of Michigan
2023John ShoemakerPhi Gamma DeltaClemson University
2023Elliot SiekmannSigma NuSoutheast Missouri State University
2023Dennis TanerDelta ChiTemple University
2024Oluwatobi “Tobi” AdigunPhi Gamma DeltaUniversity of Arizona
2024Maxwell BattistPhi Gamma DeltaKettering University
2024Jackson ConnerSigma NuUniversity of Oklahoma
2024Will CooperPhi Kappa Psi Iowa State University
2024Will HansonSigma NuArizona State University
2024Joseph HiattDelta Tau DeltaUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney
2024John SedlmeirTau Delta PhiMonmouth University
2025Justin BonannoPi Kappa PhiPurdue University
2025Rhett CrainSigma ChiBall State University
2025Emilio FerraraSigma NuUniversity of Georgia
2025Zane GrizzleDelta Tau DeltaUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney
2025Greg TrezzaDelta Tau DeltaSacred Heart University
2025Auden Van LaekenPi Kappa PhiUniversity of Tennessee
2025Jacob ZinkSigma NuMontana State University
YearOrganization(s)Program/Iniative
2016Theta ChiSacred Purpose
2016Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Alpha Mu, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Beta TauWords to Action
2016Alpha Tau Omega, Delta Sigma Phi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma NuThe Social Strengths Workshop
2017Sigma Alpha MuDeveloping Leaders Institute
2017Delta UpsilonMembership Outcomes Assessment
2017Phi Kappa PsiELEVATE
2017Zeta Beta TauGreen Light: Go!
2018Alpha Tau OmegaTalk Space / ATO Partnership
2018Delta UpsilonAssociate Member Education Program
2018Phi Kappa PsiProfessional Development Conference
2018Sigma ChiPreparation for Brotherhood
2018Sigma NuSigma Nu Mentor Network
2018Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Alpha Mu, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Beta TauSummit Against Hate
2019Alpha Tau OmegaStatehouse Chaplain Support Initiative
2019Alpha Chi Omega, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Nu, Zeta Tau AlphaEducational Poster Series
2019Kappa Delta RhoLegion
2019Phi Kappa PsiService Immersion Trips
2019Sigma ChiStrong Arms
2019Sigma PhiBalanced Man Program App
2020Phi Sigma KappaCardinal Journey: Brotherhood in Phi Sigma Kappa
2020Sigma Alpha EpsilonBrotherhood at Home
2020Fraternity Alumni Council of TexasParents and Alumni for Student Safety
2021AcaciaLee W. Kearney Venerable Dean and Officers Summit
2021Phi Sigma KappaMember Safety Programming
2021Pi Kappa Phi, The Ability Experience Gaming for Inclusion
2021Sigma Alpha MuConvention Swag Boxes
2021Sigma ChiDistance Leadership Certificate
2021Zeta PsiContinuing Education Series
2021Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Alpha Mu, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Beta TauSummit Against Hate
2022Phi Sigma KappaScholarship and Character in Phi Sigma Kappa
2022Sigma NuCollege of Chapters
2022Sigma Alpha EpsilonEmerging Leaders Academy
2022Worcester Polytechnic Institute Interfraternity CouncilRecognizing Bias to Build an Inclusive Greek Organization
2022Sigma ChiAuthentic Leadership Certificate
2023AcaciaLee Kearney Officer Summit
2023Clemson University Interfraternity CouncilIFC New Member Series
2023Fraternity Social MediaEducating Fraternity Members on Digital Communications
2023University of Idaho Interfraternity CouncilMobilizing Men Committee
2023Phi Kappa PsiEXPLORE
2023Sigma ChiValues-based Leadership Certificate
2024Alpha Gamma RhoTop Leaders Institute
2024Chi PsiChi Psi Cares
2024Delta ChiDelta Chi Dale Carnegie Scholars
2024Hazing Prevention NetworkHazing Prevention Institute
2024Phi Kappa PsiCAMPFIRE
2024Pi Kappa AlphaTrue PIKE Experience
2025Delta ChiDream Manager Program
2025Delta Sigma PhiCareer Accelerator
2025Phi Kappa PsiLaunch
2025Sigma ChiHouse Corporation Academy
2025Zeta Beta TauCombatting Campus Antisemitism

View current recipients

Awards of Distinction: Current Recipients

The North American Interfraternity Conference annually recognizes excellence in the fraternal experience by conferring Awards of Distinction to individuals and groups who exemplify leadership, service and fraternal values. These honors play a significant role in the advancement of the NIC mission and vision, as well as the industry as a whole. Recognizing the value and impact of individual and group efforts on college/university campuses and within interfraternal organizations conveys the importance of innovation, courage and commitment to a positive fraternal experience.

Please direct any questions about the awards process to awards@nicfraternity.org.

Gold Medal Honoree

Kevin O’Neill — Lambda Chi Alpha

Kevin O’Neill is a stalwart fraternity man dedicated to the membership experience from the local to federal level. A partner at Washington, D.C.’s Arnold & Porter firm since 2015, O’Neill began his professional career as director of chapter services at his fraternal organization Lambda Chi Alpha. With nearly 25 years of lobbying experience, O’Neill has been instrumental in the NIC’s lobbying and advocacy efforts, especially related to the annual Fraternal Government Relations Coalition Capitol Hill Visits, support of the Anti-Hazing Coalition and the passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act in 2024.

View full press release

Silver Medal Honorees

Dr. Robert Britton Katz — Sigma Nu

A Sigma Nu alumnus from Mississippi State University, Dr. R. Brit Katz is steadfast in his dedication to the fraternity experience and a vocal champion for the right of students to join fraternal organizations. Dr. Katz continually shares his expertise with higher education institutions, associations, affiliated organizations and conference attendees. Throughout his tenure he has been tapped to lead presentations more than 45 times, covering topics such as sexual misconduct prevention, institutional partnerships, strategic planning, leadership and success, and more. 

View full press release

Dr. Richard Walker — Sigma Alpha Epsilon

University of Houston-Clear Lake President, Dr. Richard Walker, a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon initiated at Middle Tennessee State University, has provided a lifetime of service to the interfraternal community across multiple college campuses and professional organizations. Dr. Walker has held numerous volunteer roles with Sigma Alpha Epsilon, including National New Member Education Committee Chair, National Leadership School Faculty and Planning Committee member and more. Beyond SAE, he has served as president of the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisers and served the AFA Foundation as both a board member and treasurer.

View full press release


Award of Distinction Recipients

Advisor Award of Distinction

J. Scott Cleland embodies the spirit of a fraternal advisor through decades of dedicated service to Acacia Fraternity, Ohio University and the broader interfraternal community. A refounding father and early chapter president, Scott has served as an advisor for over 30 years. Most recently, he led a successful chapter rebuilding effort, revitalizing membership, finances, alumni engagement and chapter culture. His commitment to interfraternalism is reflected in 15 years of leadership on Acacia’s International Council and his founding of the Acacia Leadership Academy in 1995. In August 2024, he was re-elected as International First Vice President. Scott’s lasting impact through mentorship, leadership and advocacy makes him a model advisor and champion of fraternal values.

Ed Robinson is known on Bucknell’s campus and within the alumni body for knowing each undergraduate brother in his chapter personally. He meets them the day they join as new members and has memorized each of their names and faces by the next time he sees them. Every year he writes letters of recommendation for graduate school or gives reference interviews for jobs. He has provided countless hours of encouragement and assistance to the officers and members of Delta Chapter to develop and implement their own vision, goals, programming and other objectives. He has modeled a special kind of wisdom, empathy and compassion that is unique. This recognition coincides with his retirement from over ten years as the Purple Legionnaire (principal graduate advisor) for the chapter.

For over two decades, Bill Good has been the heart and soul of Phi Kappa Psi’s Iowa Beta Chapter at Iowa State University. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication have not only shaped the chapter’s success but have also profoundly impacted the lives of hundreds of young men. Bill’s influence extends far beyond operations. He and his wife lived in the chapter house, offering daily mentorship and modeling the values of integrity, humility, and compassion. He guided students through personal and academic challenges, celebrated their successes and held them accountable when needed.

Under Richard Pierce’s advisement, the chapter has thrived, becoming the top fraternity on campus in terms of size, GPA, philanthropy and involvement. His greatest achievement is in the lives he has touched and the men he has helped become leaders, committed to making a difference in their communities. He actively seeks to connect brothers to a network of alumni, ensuring that they have the support and guidance needed to succeed post-graduation. Richard’s collaborative leadership extends beyond the individual level, as seen in his approach to systemic issues. During a time when hazing was becoming a concern across campus, Richard took it upon himself to initiate a larger conversation with the institution to address the issue at a systemic level. Beyond his direct work with the CofC chapter, he also volunteers on a broader scale training as a key contributor to the Chapter Advisor Training program.

Alumnus Award of Distinction

Martin Cobb has over 25 years of Beta volunteer experience and has served in a variety of roles for three different Beta chapters. Most recently, he served as the House Corporation President for the Epsilon Omicron Chapter at the University of Kentucky where he was instrumental in the construction of their chapter house. Under his guidance, the chapter has grown and thrived. Martin has served the NIC, Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors and Fraternity Communications Association thorughout his career. During nearly 30 years of devotion to the fraternal movement, Martin has created deep friendships and served as a role model for what lifelong service looks like.

Dr. Michael Hiller has served as the Alumni Advisory Board Chairman for the Phi Chapter at Louisiana State University for more than 15 years, and as a member of the Advisory Board since 2007, when the chapter was restarted. Throughout his tenure, he has overseen the stabilization and strategic redirection of the chapter through rough patches and its recommitment to the pursuit of excellence. His efforts have been crucial in re-establishing a strong alumni network and enhancing the chapter’s operational effectiveness through consistent leadership and mentorship. His steadfast commitment is demonstrated through his significant influence on the chapter’s numerous achievements, including LSU’s Greek Chapter of the Year Award and Sigma Nu’s Rock Chapter Award.

Joe Pavicic is a dedicated and influential member of Pi Kappa Alpha, currently serving as an advisor for the Lambda Mu chapter at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. He has been instrumental in cultivating a culture of growth and accountability, ensuring the chapter adheres to the values and traditions of both Pike and Embry-Riddle. His mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping the development of many brothers, guiding them toward success in their personal and professional lives, including helping secure aerospace industry jobs for several members. Joe’s dedication to fostering continuous improvement and progressive change has ensured the chapter’s thriving presence both at the university and in the wider community.

For more than five decades, William A. “Bill” Utic has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the advancement of fraternal values through his leadership, philanthropy and strategic vision. A founding director and longtime officer of both the Acacia Fraternity Foundation and the newly formed Acacia Fraternity National Housing Corporation, Bill has played a pivotal role in strengthening the infrastructure that supports generations of undergraduate brothers. His service extends beyond his own chapter, having profoundly impacted chapters across the country through his mentorship and stewardship.

Chapter Award of Distinction

Since its founding in 2015, the chapter has modeled the values of scholarship, service and brotherhood. Over the past year, their continued academic excellence — maintaining the highest GPA among IFC fraternities since Spring 2022 — combined with raising over $13,000 for Family Promise Birmingham, demonstrates their commitment to holistic member development and community impact. In 2024, the chapter earned national accolades from Alpha Tau Omega, including the prestigious True Merit Award and recognition in scholarship and service. The chapter’s sustained excellence and proactive engagement set a standard for fraternity life and make them highly deserving of this national recognition.

This chapter has a well-rounded experience. With a focus on recruitment and retention they now average between 50-60 new members each year with an average attrition of just 10-27% in the past three years. Further, the chapter has maintained high levels of academic success, ranking number one over the last three semesters. Their work in the area of chapter housing and adherence to accountability and a substance-free experience is one that is should be celebrated. Their coordination with the General Fraternity House Corporation has been a true crucible moment for the chapter as their home has become attractive to their members in a way that has them enhancing their accountability mechanisms to adhere to Beta’s substance free housing policy and set a new standard for fraternity at Iowa.

This chapter’s sustained success in leadership, operations, service and brotherhood positions them as a model for fraternal excellence within the campus community and Delta Tau Delta. Members hold leadership roles in numerous student organizations, and the chapter has consistently earned campus recognition for its impact. Over the past year, the chapter has achieved measurable growth in both academic performance and membership, outperforming the all-fraternity average in both categories. What sets them apart is its impressive focus on service and advocacy. Their most impactful and innovative programming stems from a long-standing partnership with the Center for Family Justice. Their annual rally brings together university leaders, local officials, law enforcement and students to raise awareness about domestic violence and promote the role of men in creating safer communities.

Over the past year, the chapter has prioritized academics, brotherhood, philanthropy and impactful programming. Their commitment to mentorship through interclass engagement stands out. Members averaged 11 community service hours each, exceeding their 9-hour goal. Notable events included an alcohol safety program co-hosted with another fraternity and their annual professor meet-and-greet. These initiatives have strengthened ties with faculty, peers, alumni and the broader community, helping members grow into values-driven leaders. Nationally, the chapter was awarded the Memorial Trophy, the highest honor for a Theta Xi chapter, for the 2023-2024 school year. The chapter also received first place in Habitat for Humanity Service Efforts among the 47 other chapters.

ZBT at Monmouth College prioritizes strong leadership, enhances campus life, and consistently positions itself for both local and national recognition. While Delta Lambda has experienced the highs and lows familiar to all fraternities, consistent leadership and values-based education have led to consistent growth and stability. The success of ZBT stems from generations of dedicated individuals committed to improving the chapter, the college and the greater fraternity. ZBT brothers, both active and alumni, are highly engaged in campus life. Members are involved in student government, performing arts, athletics and residence life. Alumni brothers remain connected, holding key roles on the Alumni Board and Board of Trustees.

Undergraduate Award of Distinction

As the Pi Kappa Phi President and IFC VP of Administration, Justin Bonanno was a driving force for thoughtful engagement, decision making and community building. He inherited considerable challenges in these roles and his work was grounded in rebuilding trust, stability, and integrity within his peer and advising networks. Justin is an outstanding person who earns his opportunities through hard work, intelligence and perseverance. He is a strategic leader that can address complex issues and create dynamic solutions through collaboration and sound process. His methodical approach clearly demonstrates his sincere commitment to learning, connecting and teaching.

Rhett Crain exemplifies the highest ideals of fraternity life through his leadership, character, and unwavering commitment to others. He has made a significant and lasting impact at Ball State University, not only within his own Sigma Chi chapter, where he served as president and held multiple key roles, but also across the wider fraternity community as IFC President. His leadership is defined by purpose, servant-minded action, and an ability to unite and inspire those around him. Beyond fraternity life, Rhett is actively engaged in campus leadership and community service, earning respect from students, faculty, and administration alike. He is the kind of leader who doesn’t just hold positions but uses them to create meaningful change.

Emilio Ferrara served Mu Chapter as Lieutenant Commander (vice president), where he significantly increased member leadership participation by 40% and was instrumental in organizing the chapter’s 150th-anniversary celebration, which saw over 375 attendees. Emilio was also deeply involved in the chapter’s community service initiatives, serving as an afterschool volunteer coordinator for the chapter’s work with Extra Special People and helping secure funding for melanoma research. In addition, he held two of UGA’s highest undergraduate scholarships, the Foundation Fellowship and the Stamps Scholarship. In 2023, he was named a national Barry Goldwater Scholar, and in 2024, he was a national finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship.

Zane Grizzle embodies the ideal of a servant-leader who has significantly shaped the future of his chapter, the greater fraternity and sorority community, and the campus at large. His leadership was especially critical during challenging moments, but in every situation, Zane has led with integrity, professionalism, and a focus on doing what was right for the chapter. He has championed a culture of accountability and respect and has set a standard for excellence that future members of the chapter and the Greek community can follow. Zane has been deeply engaged with Delta Tau Delta on a national level, attending several leadership programs and conferences, earning scholarships, and even speaking at Karnea, the fraternity’s international convention.

Greg Trezza’s legacy is best understood through the profound and lasting results he achieved during his two terms as chapter president. In a time when many chapters struggled with retention, operations or accountability, Greg brought structure, consistency and vision. Under his leadership, the chapter achieved back-to-back Court of Honor Awards, placing them in the top 20 of all DTD chapters nationwide for two consecutive years. That success was the result of tireless work, strategic leadership and a deep commitment to Delt’s values. One of his greatest contributions was implementing a strong culture of accountability. Greg balanced firmness with empathy and ensured that every member understood expectations, felt supported and was empowered to grow.

Through intentional goal-setting, transparent communication, and a servant-leader mentality, Auden Van Laeken inspired his chapter. He led officer retreats that focused on mission and accountability, overhauled financial systems and ensured officer transitions that protected institutional knowledge for future leaders. His leadership has resulted in a stronger, more sustainable chapter culture centered around excellence, respect and responsibility. Auden’s influence extends well beyond fraternity. As VP of Judicial Affairs for the IFC, he shouldered one of the most demanding roles on campus. Balancing fairness and education, he redefined what it means to hold peers accountable. His work helped build trust in a process that is often viewed with skepticism, and his leadership elevated the standard of conduct across the fraternity community.

Jacob Zink is the two-term Study Body President of Montana State University. In addition to four years in Student Government, he has served in several prominent campus roles: Founder and President of Stop-Hazing Montana – organizing with students, legislators and researchers to propose the state’s first criminal anti-hazing law; board member for the MSU Bookstore, MSU Alumni Foundation and the Museum of the Rockies; and more. His service also includes the IFC’s Anti-Hazing Task Force and as VP of Communications, attending the inaugural First Amendment Institute and participation in the FGRC Congressional Visits & FSPAC Dinner. Jacob served his chapter as Community Service & Philanthropy Chairman, Risk Reduction Chairman, and Finance Committee member. In 2024 he served as a Collegiate Advisor to the High Council of Sigma Nu.


Laurel Wreath Recipients

Laurel Wreath

The Dream Manager program is a staff development initiative focused on attracting and retaining talented professionals. As a team that is primarily made up of remote employees, this program was implemented to provide a way for employees to feel more connected to their work, the organization and staff. The program is structured based on the book The Dream Manager and emphasizes the importance of connection between the dreams of employees and the goals of Delta Chi. Staff have put together a virtual “dream board” to showcase what they are seeking to achieve outside of the day-to-day work; they give regular updates on their progress and celebrating those achievements together.

In 2025, Delta Sigma Phi hosted its first-ever Career Accelerator, a national program designed to help both undergraduate members and young alumni prepare for their next career steps through practical, career-focused education. As the Fraternity’s first national educational program to engage young alumni directly, the Career Accelerator expands Delta Sig’s impact beyond the undergraduate experience. Seventy participants took part in two days of interactive sessions led by alumni, employer partners and industry professionals. Topics included resume writing, managing up, understanding company culture, budgeting, networking, resilience in the workplace and the use of artificial intelligence on the job.

A three-day regional retreat for the newest Phi Kappa Psi brothers, built upon the common knowledge and lessons from Embark. Launch is the first opportunity for Phi Psi’s newest members to make connections with other Phi Psi’s from across the country. Participant will begin to understand and appreciate their personal values, deepen their understanding of the Fraternity’s values and increase their commitment to the brotherhood.

Sigma Chi is proud to introduce a modern, scalable solution in House Corporation Academy, an online training program hosted on the Fraternity’s Maple learning management system, designed to meet the evolving needs of both alumni volunteers and undergraduate members. The cornerstone of the program is House Corporation Fundamentals. This foundational course is a reimagined and far more impactful version of the legacy House Corporation Advisor training. It serves as both an onboarding tool for new House Corporation officers and a reference resource that can be accessed at any time. By transitioning this curriculum to an online format, Sigma Chi has removed major logistical barriers and made it easier than ever for alumni to get the information and guidance they need when and where they need it.

Combatting Campus Antisemitism, created and offered by Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, positively impacts hundreds of students each year by addressing the growing issue of antisemitism on college campuses and on social media. In the months following the terrorist attacks of Oct. 7, 2023, college campuses saw a staggering 477% increase in protests and encampments. As a response, ZBT enhanced and expanded this workshop — both in content and outreach — to provide critical hate prevention education, reaching ZBTs and their peer students to promote safety, wellness, mental health and incident response training.

View past recipients

72 Students Selected to Receive 2024 Men’s College Scholarship

2024 recipients, photos submitted

The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence and the North American Interfraternity Conference are excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Men’s College Scholarship which is designed to identify and reward outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated an ability to excel in the fields of academics, extra-curricular school activities and community involvement.

Men are going to college with less frequency than in the past, and not persisting to graduation at the same rates as women. According to The Wall Street Journal, at the close of the 2020-21 academic year, women made up 59.5% of college students, an all-time high, and men 40.5%, according to enrollment data from the National Student Clearinghouse, a nonprofit research group. Recent data points show that there are now 2.4 million more female than male undergraduates on U.S. campuses (8.9 million women compared to 6.5 million men).

To inspire college attendance and academic success by young men, in 2022 a diverse group of fraternity alumni founded the Men’s College Scholarship. A college education is important and opens numerous opportunities to students including the many potential benefits of fraternity membership, including a sense of belonging on campus which furthers students’ wellbeing and chances of graduating. Research actually shows that fraternities foster positive mental health, serve as a success accelerator for students, and engender tremendous loyalty and connections among alumni to support their alma mater.

We believe in the fraternity experience and know the value it provides to undergraduates and alumni. Fraternity members can tap built-in alumni networks, finding jobs more quickly than their peers. Research shows almost half of members had a brother who helped them find an internship or job and provided them with career advice. And fraternity alumni report being more fulfilled in their careers and lives in every aspect of wellbeing measured, from career to community and financial to physical, because of the relationships and resources they can leverage.

After reviewing more than 4,050 completed applications from young men across the United States, the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence is thrilled to award 72 scholarships totaling $41,000.

Recipients represent various backgrounds and hail from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with 46% identifying as first-generation college students. We look forward to seeing this program continue to grow in future years and thank all Fraternities Matter Campaign donors for making this scholarship a reality.

2024 Scholarship Recipients:

2024 Men’s College Scholarship

First Name Middle Name Last Name City State High School
Jose Abraham Alvarez McAllen TX McAllen High School
Quincy Combs Moorefield WV Moorefield High School
Clarence Joseph Davis, Jr. Belle Chasse LA Holy Cross School
Pierre Deacon New York NY Columbia Secondary School
Macklin Gray Kirkland WA Juanita High School
Zachary Michael Houtz Auburn PA Schuylkill Haven Area High School
Shishir Jakkam Columbus GA Columbus High School
Jude Marshall Jamison Cincinnati OH Indian Hill High School
Daniel Z Long Sang Indianapolis IN Perry Meridian High School
Selassie Taylor Pittsburg CA Pittsburg Senior High

First Name Middle Name Last Name City State High School
Isaiah Steven Abbott Sidney OH Christian Academy Schools
Denzel Jagdeo Balgobin Windsor CT Academy of Aerospace and Engineering
Spencer Belson Andover MA Andover High School
Isaac Steven Bowers Concord NH Concord Christian Academy
Michael Ayden Brack Norman OK Norman North High School
Edric Bussie, Jr. Tucker GA Druid Hills High School
Chryston Lemar Calvin Dumas AR Dumas High School
michael Cano, Jr. Brownsville TX Brownsville Early College Highschool
Rayan Adam Charah Leesburg VA Loudoun County High School
Trevor Samuel Christensen Wamgeo KS Rock Creek Jr/Sr High School
Philip Frank Chrostowski Maspeth NY Archbishop Molloy High School
Harrison Coutu Juneau AK Juneau Douglas High School
Khang Tien Dinh Spring TX Klein Oak High School
Caden A Dufour Turner ME Hebron Academy
Patrick Ryan Effertz Velva ND Velva High School
Tanner Jay Eide Gettysburg SD Gettysburg High School
Diego Escalante Los Olivos CA The Thacher School
Christopher Michael Ferrara Atlanta GA The Lovett School
Christian David Fraley Lexington KY Lexington Catholic High School
Landen Victor Gallagher Cody WY Cody High School
Erick Gonzalez Cruz Woodburn OR Woodburn High School
Keaton Grady Milwaukee WI Ronald Wilson Reagan College Preparatory High School
Wyatt Hollowell Natchez MS Adams County Christian School
Trust Alaka’i Humalon Kapolei HI Saint Louis School
Shawn Ethan Jacobs Wilmington DE Concord High School
Rey King Jeremiah Tolleson AZ University High School
Mark S. Jones Boise ID Timberline High School
Alexander Kang Cherry Hill NJ Cherry Hill High School East
Nehimia Solomon Kebede Washington DC McKinley Technology High School
Usman Khalid Palatine IL Palatine High School
Gavin Dedric Lindsay Charlotte NC Covenant Day School
Robert James Lube Downers Grove IL Downers Grove South
Jayden Mabien Creola AL Saraland High School
Christian m Marin TIjeras NM Saint Pius X High School
Cesar Maya River Rouge MI Cass Technical High School
Alex Christopher McMillan Winter Park FL William Boone High School
Tyler McNair Greenville SC Mauldin High School
Dylan C Medlin Wake Forest NC Wake Forest High School
Bryan Nardo Hialeah FL Mater performing arts entertainment academy
David Thanh Nguyen Silver Spring MD Springbrook High School
Edward Muchiri Njau Philadelphia PA Abraham Lincoln High School
Andrew J Ognibene West Berlin VT U32 High School
Clarksen Gage Padrnos Sumner NE Sumner-Eddyville-Miller High School
Steven Colt Parker Sikeston MO Sikeston Public High School
Wyatt Charles Phillips Chantilly VA Freedom High School
Ryan Plant Bridgewater NJ Bridgewater-Raritan
Boaz Jakin Qiu Midland MI HH Dow High School
Nathaniel Read-Smith Missoula MT Loyola Sacred Heart High Shool
Akiva Rosenzweig Gaithersburg MD Montgomery Blair High School
Grant Jeffrey Scharer Jacksonville FL Samuel Wolfson High School
Caleb Todd Seward Aspen CO Aspen High School
Dev Mukesh Shah Clarksville TN Clarksville High School
Evan Patrick Siembieda Encino CA Chaminade College Preparatory
Graham William Silberfein Manvel TX Episcopal High School
Matthew Singh New Hope MN Maranatha Christian Academy
Andy Taing West Covina CA Alhambra High School
Dane Christian Villarama Salt Lake City UT East High School
Wyatt James Vlasek Cedar Rapids IA College Community School District / Prairie High School
Jacob Warren Warpmaeker Klein TX Klein High School
Payson Daryl Wilks Oxford OH Stephen T. Badin High School
Donovan Williams Henderson NV Lake Mead Christian Academy
Andy Wu Cranston RI Cranston High School East


If you would like to donate to the Fraternities Matter Campaign: download a pledge form, make a gift online or contact NIC President & CEO Judson Horras.

Empowering Inclusive Conversations: How Greek University’s “Dialogues Across Differences” Transforms Organizations

At Greek University we help organizations solve complex campus problems through keynote speakers and workshops for your fraternity or sorority members. Our speakers, facilitators and partners are more than just educators; they are architects of change. Since 2018 we have partnered with Culture Shift Team (CST) who specializes in helping organizations navigate the complicated landscape of membership and campus demographic shifts, crafting strategies that empower people and cultivate vibrant cultures.

The Client Challenge:

Picture this: A national sorority standing at a crossroads. Amidst the chaos of extreme political polarization and stark differences in lived experiences, maintaining safe and productive spaces for dialogue seemed insurmountable. Despite understanding the benefit of genuine connections across differences, they found themselves stumbling over sensitive topics like race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, and socio-economic status. The absence of dialogue stifled progress towards building a stronger community, stalling their overall inclusion efforts. They asked us for a tool to help them reinvigorate their sense of community and propel organizational growth.

Introducing the Dialogues Across Difference Experience:

Enter the Dialogues Across Difference Experience, created by Greek University speaker and CST Co-Founder, Robert Lawrence Wilson. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill workshop; it’s a transformative journey aimed at igniting dialogue across diverse identities within organizations. Combining an interactive 1-hour participant self-exploration into identity and bias with our Reflective Listening tool, participants embark on a journey to navigate tough conversations while strengthening their sense of belonging.

Highlights:

  • Duration: A 2.5-hour immersive experience customized for students or staff participants
  • Interactive: Dive into lively and engaging discussions with peers, whether in-person or virtually.
  • Group Dynamics: Join a dynamic cohort of 50+ participants, each bringing a unique perspective to enrich the dialogue.
  • Simulation Exercise: Brace yourself for our Reflective Listening simulation — a deep dive into real-world issues, creating a space where everyone is listened to and understood.
  • Professional Facilitation: Delivered by Robert Lawrence Wilson and internally trained hosts, we create a structured and psychologically safe environment.

Benefits:

  • Trust-Building: Witness the emergence of trust and understanding among participants.
  • Enhanced Listening: Sharpen the active listening skills essential to nurturing inclusive environments.
  • Qualitative Insights: Datamine insights gleaned from participant responses captured via a pre-close survey to identify future organization priorities and actions.

Outcomes:

  • 91% of collegiate participants strongly recommend the Dialogues Across Difference Experience for their peers.
  • Identify your top 5 priorities and key actions from participants to overcome personal and organizational barriers to inclusion and belonging.
  • Participants show significant post-event improvement in:

  • Comfort initiating conversations around religion, race, socioeconomic status and sexual orientation
  • Understanding how their lived experiences contribute to the experiences of others
  • Understanding how to navigate differences in identity to improve  belonging

  • Participants walk away with practical tools for creating safe and supportive environments that extend far beyond the workshop session.

The Dialogues Across Difference Experience is more than just one experience — it’s a catalyst for meaningful change! Let us help your organization reshape conversations and transform your culture for the better! Intrigued? Visit www.greekuniversity.org/robert for more information.

Contact Mike Ayalon at Greek University to book educational programs or services for your organization by calling 203-58-GREEK or email: bookings@greekuniversity.org