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

NIC Announces 2024-2025 IFC Advisory Council

Indianapolis, April 23, 2024 – The North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) has selected six individuals to join the 2024-2025 IFC Advisory Council. These undergraduate students are fraternity men who have held numerous chapter and campus leadership positions and currently serve their respective Interfraternity Councils. Council members include Griffin Forbes, Oklahoma State University; Jackson Gordon, Southern Methodist University; Sean Hoffmans, Kansas State University; Johnathan Martinez, University of Missouri; Sawyer McClure, Michigan State University; and Miguel Sobera, Florida International University. Learn more about each below.

“We commend these young men for their dedication to a positive fraternity experience,” said NIC Chief Operating Officer Will Foran. “I am excited to work with this group over the next year as they provide strategic feedback to support IFC resource development and engage with fraternity leaders, each providing their unique campus perspective.”

The IFC Advisory Council is a unique opportunity allowing undergraduate fraternity members to engage with industry leaders while helping to influence and shape the fraternity experience. They will assist with developing IFC resources, inter/national policy and mentoring other IFC officers. Service begins with orientation in mid-May and concludes after one year.

Griffin Forbes, Oklahoma State University

Griffin currently serves as OSU’s IFC President and is a member of Sigma Chi, having served in many chapter positions. In addition, he has served in numerous leadership roles with campus organizations including the Oklahoma State University President’s Leadership Council, Junior Greek Leadership, Greek Wide Student Ministry, Camp Cowboy and more.

Jackson Gordon, Southern Methodist University

Currently serving as Interfraternity Council President at Southern Methodist, Jackson previously held the role of IFC Vice President of Recruitment and is FSLead trained. A member of Sigma Nu, Jackson served his chapter roles including Ethics Chairman and Risk Reduction Chairman.

Sean Hoffmans, Kansas State University

Sean, current IFC Vice President of Recruitment Operations and Fraternity-Sorority Life Ambassador, is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha. He is involved with K-State’s Student Governing Association previously holding roles of Senator of the College of Business and Director of Academic Affairs, interning for the Staley School of Leadership and participating in the University’s Homecoming Committee.

Johnathan Martinez, University of Missouri

A member of Phi Kappa Theta, Johnathan presently serves as Mizzou’s Interfraternity Council President. In addition to leading the IFC and contributing to his chapter, he actively participates in and holds leadership roles with the Association of Latin American Students, Missouri Student Association and First Generation Club.

Sawyer McClure, Michigan State University

Sawyer currently holds the role of IFC Vice President of Programming, serving the prior term as President. While IFC President he updated the council’s governing documents and implemented a men’s mental health program called MANUAL — where he continues to devote his time supporting the IFC’s programming. Sawyer is a member of Theta Delta Chi.

Miguel Sobera, Florida International University

Miguel previously served as IFC Vice President of Scholarship and Vice President of Recruitment and presently serves as IFC President. Before his IFC service, Miguel held various roles with his Pi Kappa Alpha and served as the Recruitment Chair for FIU’s Neon Nights which supports mental health education for students.

# # # 

The North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) is the trade association representing national and international men’s fraternities, including a diverse range of culturally and religious-based organizations. The NIC’s member organizations boast more than 6,000 chapters located on more than 550 campuses in the United States and Canada, with approximately 250,000 undergraduate members and nearly 4.2 million alumni. 

Statement on suspension of fraternity activities at University of Maryland

University of Maryland at Night; Photo by Ryan Kosmides/Unsplash

NIC members stand ready to hold the few involved in misconduct accountable while advocating for students who uphold fraternal expectations and provide thousands of young men a positive fraternity experience. Since our members’ top priority is health and safety, we oppose system-wide actions which research shows disincentivizes future reporting and fosters a culture of mistrust among students and administrators.

###

Please direct media inquiries to pr@nicfraternity.org

Protected: FGA Document Repository

This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below.

Applying David Brooks to the Fraternity

Lori Hart

By Dr. Lori Hart, Director of Educational Initiatives, Holmes Murphy Fraternal Practice

I grew up in the “values based” and “live your ritual” season of fraternity and sorority.  We talked about morals, being good people, we were always wearing our letters (even when we weren’t).

David Brooks was busy last fall writing about the human experience. I offer some of his insights below because digging into this work has made me wonder if “we” are getting it right with our curriculum, training, expectations, etc. and how we could take this premise, philosophy and utilize it to better fraternity.  I also believe the work that he talks about will and can lead to harm reduction, safer experiences, and reduced claims.

Mr. Brooks’ October 19, 2023, NYT Op Ed, The Essential Skills for Being Human, made me pause and think. 

People need social skills. The real process of, say, building a friendship or creating a community involves performing a series of small, concrete actions well: being curious about other people; disagreeing without poisoning relationships; revealing vulnerability at an appropriate pace; being a good listener; knowing how to ask for and offer forgiveness; knowing how to host a gathering where everyone feels embraced; knowing how to see things from another’s point of view.

Source: Opinion | How to be Human – The New York Times (nytimes.com)

How America Got Mean, popped up as a top 10 Atlantic article published in September 2023. Here are some nuggets I pulled. 

“Moral communities are fragile things, hard to build and easy to destroy,” the psychologist Jonathan Haidt writes in The Righteous Mind. When you are raised in a culture without ethical structure, you become internally fragile. You have no moral compass to give you direction, no permanent ideals to which you can swear ultimate allegiance. 

Moral renewal won’t come until we have leaders who are explicit, loud, and credible about both sets of goals. Here’s how we’re growing financially, but also here’s how we’re learning to treat one another with consideration and respect; here’s how we’re going to forgo some financial returns in order to better serve our higher mission.

Healthy moral ecologies don’t just happen. They have to be seeded and tended by people who think and talk in moral terms, who try to model and inculcate moral behavior, who understand that we have to build moral communities because on our own, we are all selfish and flawed. Moral formation is best when it’s humble. It means giving people the skills and habits that will help them be considerate to others in the complex situations of life. It means helping people behave in ways that make other people feel included, seen, and respected. 

Source: Why Americans Are So Awful to One Another – The Atlantic

His book “How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen” was released October 2023. 

David Brooks wants to create a society where people are seen and can be seen and that sounds like what we want for fraternal organizations as well.  This is the fabric of our work, or it should be. Human relations are hard, but skills can be taught. 

“There is one skill that lies at the heart of any healthy person, family, school, community organization, or society: the ability to see someone else deeply and make them feel seen—to accurately know another person, to let them feel valued, heard, and understood.”

Source: How to Know a Person by David Brooks: 9780593230060 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

How can we apply the work of David Brooks to fraternity? Don’t just focus on compliance, focus on creating experiences that lead to commitment.  The human commitment.

New member programs should not be content on a PowerPoint, they should be about opportunities to create open dialogue and shared experiences. Are the programs currently built to place relationship development at the core?

Make sure what you do and ask of members is connecting to the organization to its values, thus providing a moral compass for members.

Create expectations and education where Mentor/Mentee relationships provide a platform for personal and professional growth, guidance, and support. Steps to Develop Peer Mentor and Mentee Program (psu.edu).

Seek out, train, support and retain advisors who capture the philosophy of David Brooks.  As you all know, a successful chapter usually has a good volunteer guiding. And from my experience, the common factor of a good advisor is they are in relationship with the members.

The basics of philanthropy, ritual, brotherhood, safety should be constant in the work that is done.

The Medici Effect’s Frans Johansson suggests that all new ideas are a combination of old ideas. So, as you think big, brainstorm, and try to crack the nut on brotherhood and social connections, don’t miss the opportunity to pull those old ideas out and discuss how you came to love fraternity. My guess you will quickly starting talking about relationships and the heart of the things we should be focused on. 

IFC Awards: Past Recipients

The IFC Awards Program honors those who advance the movement and have a direct, positive impact on fraternity. We are proud to recognize campuses, councils and individuals that exemplify NIC Standards and aim to align with IFC Standard Operating Procedures.

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

IFC Awards: Past Recipients

Year Interfraternity Council
2006 Eastern Illinois University
2009 Purdue University
2016 Arizona State University
2017 Purdue University
2017 Quinnipiac University
2018 University of Alabama
2019 Purdue University
2020 Texas A&M University
2022 Iowa State University
2022 Purdue University
2022 University of Idaho
2022 University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2023 Augusta University
2023 Clemson University
2023 Kansas State University
2023 The Ohio State University
2023 University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2023 University of Texas at Austin
2023 Virginia Tech
2024 Iowa State University
2024 Monmouth College
2024 Quinnipiac University
2024 Virginia Tech

Year Interfraternity Council
2022 Iowa State University
2022 Texas State University
2022 University of Texas at Austin
2023 Iowa State University
2023 Kansas State University
2023 Michigan Tech
2023 Pepperdine University
2023 Texas Christian University
2023 University of Arizona
2023 University of New Hampshire
2024 Christopher Newport University
2024 Clemson University
2024 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (FL)
2024 Kansas State University
2024 Michigan Tech
2024 Texas Christian University
2024 University of Alabama
2024 University of Arizona
2024 Virginia Tech

Category titled “Outstanding Community Service” in 2022 and 2023

Year Interfraternity Council
2022 Drake University
2022 Iowa State University
2022 University of Idaho
2023 Texas Christian University
2023 Texas State University
2023 University of Arizona
2023 University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Category titled “Outstanding Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” in 2022 and 2023

Year Interfraternity Council
2022 Indiana State University
2022 University of Southern Mississippi
2022 University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2023 Ball State University
2023 Clemson University
2023 Cornell University
2023 Kansas State University
2023 The Ohio State University
2023 University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2023 University of Texas at Austin
2024 Kansas State University
2024 Missouri University of Science and Technology

Year IFC President Interfraternity Council
2022 Matt Halverson University of Oklahoma
2022 Jonathan Jenkins University of Southern Mississippi
2022 Mason Miller University of Iowa
2022 Harrison Murphy University Park
2022 Michael Rodriguez University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2022 Michael Walker University of Arizona
2023 Greg Abraham University of Arizona
2023 Justin Bharucha Lafayette College
2023 Braeden Boyle High Point University
2023 Kyle Calvey Bowling Green State University
2023 Connor Dickel Temple University
2023 Christopher Higby The Ohio State University
2023 Tyler Johnson University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2023 Shayan Karimy Kansas State University
2023 Deren Purisic SUNY Plattsburgh
2023 Gabriel Smedes Pepperdine University
2023 Jack Tanner University of Texas at Austin
2023 Matt Tavares West Chester University
2024 Brady Arrenius Monmouth College
2024 Sammy Barr University of Southern California-Independent
2024 Cole Gibson Clemson University
2024 Jackson Gordon Southern Methodist University
2024 Carey Hereford Samford University
2024 Kettner Hunter University of Colorado Boulder
2024 Johnathan Martinez University of Missouri
2024 Toby Trowbridge Louisiana State University

Year Name Interfraternity Council
2022 Abbi Hanson Allen Virginia Tech
2022 Hunter Carlheim University of Tennessee, Knoxville
2022 Nick O’Neal University of Idaho
2023 Grace Bova University of Texas at Austin
2023 Mat Greer Temple University
2023 Hunter Hartwig The Ohio State University
2023 Madi Heerdt University of New Hampshire
2023 Spencer Laiben University of Mississippi
2023 Molleigh Pompilio Pepperdine University
2023 Madison Simmons High Point University
2024 Marissa Griffin Northern Arizona University
2024 Tianna Pride Ball State University
2024 Cody Sallee University of Missouri
2024 Alexandria Wilson Kansas State University

View current recipients

Crowded Case Study: Delta Kappa Epsilon

By Darryl Gecelter

We built Crowded to make the lives of treasurers easier. Crowded is a platform where treasurers can collect dues, track chapter spending, issue digital debit cards (no more reimbursements!) and more. Everything is digital and on-demand. 

Fraternity chapters make up the majority of our clients. From the national to the chapter level, we simplify financial management for these fraternities. Keep reading to hear about how our partnership with NIC member, Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE) transformed their ability to manage their chapter’s finances. Spoiler – DKE saves $48,000 each year on fees since they switched to Crowded.

Before DKE’s partnership with Crowded:

DKE’s banking and tax compliance were scattered and needed unification. 

As a national organization with around 50 chapters, DKE did not have an official banking partner. Each DKE chapter maintained its own local bank account. Oftentimes, these accounts were at local credit unions or regional banks with no modern banking tools or online banking options.

DKE treasurers had some run-of-the-mill fraternity woes:

  • Managing treasurer officer handovers
  • Chapter funds commingling with personal through peer-to-peer payment apps
  • Chasing members for dues collection 
  • Dealing with reimbursements and receipts

As a registered 501(c)(7) nonprofit, DKE has tax-exempt status for their entire organization – a group exemption. However, with both frequent officer turnover and the officer transition happening around the same time as tax filing season, tax compliance sometimes fell between the cracks. Chapters weren’t sure which EIN they should be using and how to file the correct 990 form. Answers to these questions along with general banking questions and support are not given by your typical brick and mortar banks.

DKE was searching for a better way to manage their compliance and finances. They also were looking for a platform that eased the financial stress on their chapter treasurers. Even more so, the lack of insight over their chapters’ finances, inconsistent group exemption usage, treasurer handovers etc. had serious financial implications for the national organization. 

Crowded’s partnership with DKE helps them manage their finances and compliance

Unified chapter banking with Crowded

After DKE partnered with Crowded and encouraged their chapters to sign up, they felt better positioned to support their chapters. With all the DKE chapters unified under Crowded, DKE nationals are able to assist treasurers with transactions, tax filings and fraud assistance. They can ensure that funds aren’t trapped in dormant accounts. With Crowded, DKE can monitor their subsidiary chapter finances and can step in when necessary. 

Complete compliance with IRS regulations

DKE’s partnership with Crowded allowed for total compliance with IRS regulations regarding nonprofit tax-exempt status. Crowded assisted DKE in creating dozens of EINS for chapters who did not have one, and added many chapters to their group exemption.

Compared to online providers or accountants who charge hundreds of dollars per annual tax filing, Crowded files the annual forms for DKE in a cost-effective way.

DKE is saving thousands of dollars per year, from the funds saved from tax exemptions to using Crowded to provide them with annual 990 forms and manage their group exemption.

Collecting dues with Crowded

DKE chapters collect dues online from their members with just a few clicks with Crowded Collect. Chapter treasurers can track who has and hasn’t paid, and send reminders from the Crowded platform. When chapters host events or fundraisers, they can collect funds for supplies or accept donations with Crowded. 

Compared to their previous dues collection provider who charged a fee per member, per semester, DKE saves $48,000 per year using Crowded.

If you’re curious, here’s a short demo of the Crowded platform:

Convenience of Digital Banking

For the busy university student treasurers, managing their chapter’s banking digitally is a huge benefit. Everything from account setup, to maintenance, to handing over ownership can be done online. For new DKE chapters, it used to take weeks to get a bank account set up and start collecting funds – from coordinating schedules to physically go to the bank to filling out lots of paperwork. With Crowded, it only takes a few days! When it comes to the end of the year, outgoing treasurers can hand over their account in a few simple steps. No need to coordinate schedules to go to the bank and fill out more paperwork.

“Since our guys are young volunteers gaining experience, it’s awesome to partner with a company that has tools to fit their needs. Things like transition assistance between officers or digital cards (the physical frat card always goes missing!) keep our guys focused on their mission and not bogged down administratively.” Turner, Director Of Administrative Services, Delta Kappa Epsilon

Spending chapter funds with Crowded digital debit cards

After DKE chapter treasurers collect dues and other funds from their members, they use Crowded’s Visa digital debit cards to spend the money. Treasurers can issue digital debit cards on demand for their members to make purchases on behalf of the chapter. Treasurers receive a digital receipt for all goods bought, and best of all, there is no need for them to do any reimbursements! They save, all together, 6,000 hours a year on reimbursements.

DKE leverages Crowded Rewards to fundraise

The Rampant Lion Foundation is the 501(c)3 nonprofit arm of DKE that assists members with scholarship assistance. This foundation was previously using Amazon Smile to generate donations, but when that program shut down, they turned to Crowded Rewards as their alternative. Similar to Amazon Smile, DKE supporters can do their regular shopping through Crowded Rewards and generate donations for The Rampant Lion Foundation. But, with Crowded Rewards, DKE supporters also get cashback – making it a win-win!

Continue reading about Crowded’s partnership with Pi Kappa Alpha, or get in touch with us for more information.