Brothers –
Welcome to October, a month marked by transformation and the excitement of new changes and challenges. As we step into this vibrant season, it’s a perfect time to deepen our commitment to the core values that define Kappa Kappa Psi, particularly as we prepare for the upcoming National Month of Musicianship.
“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” These profound words by John F. Kennedy remind us that embracing change with intention and purpose is essential in #TheKappaKappaPsiJourney. Let’s approach the changes and challenges ahead with optimism and a forward-thinking mindset, ensuring that Kappa Kappa Psi remains a beacon of leadership and excellence on our campuses and in the band world.
Let’s keep the momentum going—continue reading to ensure you are up to date with all that is unfolding in Kappa Kappa Psi this October. Together, let’s seize this transformative time to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. Striving for the highest, we continue to serve college and university bands with passion and dedication!
OCTOBER UPDATES
Update #1: Chapter Personnel Report
My heartfelt thanks to each chapter that has promptly submitted their Chapter Personnel Reports (CPR), chapter fees, and membership dues. Your proactive efforts set a strong foundation for our collective success! For semester based chapters that missed the September 30, 2024, deadline, I urge you to submit your documents to National Headquarters as soon as possible. The deadline for quarter schools remains on October 15, 2024. For detailed guidance, please reference the Fall 2024 Informational Mailer, specifically slides 11-19.
If you encounter any challenges, our National Headquarters stands ready to assist you. Please remember:
- Payment Issues: If your online payment is declined, contact your bank immediately, as large transactions can sometimes trigger security alerts.
- Member Acknowledgements: Ensure that all members have completed their acknowledgements before submission to avoid a 10% late fee.
- Approval Processes: Give your Chapter Sponsor and Director of Bands adequate time to review and approve your reports. Rushed approvals do not support sustainable chapter practices.
For additional information or support with your CPR, please contact our National Headquarters at kkytbs@kkytbs.org or call (405) 372-2333. You can also submit a Chapter Assistance Request Ticket.
Update #2: November National Month of Musicianship
November will be our National Month of Musicianship, a dedicated time for us to celebrate and showcase the rich musical talents within Kappa Kappa Psi and our band programs. According to research from the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), students who engage in music education are often more cooperative with teachers and peers, have more self-confidence, and are better able to express themselves. With these benefits in mind, let’s use November to not only perform but also to reflect on the profound impact that music has on our lives and communities.
Whether it’s through a heartfelt rendition of our Fraternity Hymn, sharing personal stories of how music has shaped your life, or promoting your band programs, each activity you choose is a testament to the excellence and dedication prevalent within our chapters. As you prepare for this celebratory month, consider the following reflective questions to enhance your appreciation and understanding of your musical journey:
- How has participating in band and Kappa Kappa Psi influenced my personal and academic growth?
- What memorable experiences have I gained through music that I would not have encountered otherwise?
- In what ways can I further contribute to promoting musicianship within my community?
Let’s make the National Month of Musicianship a vibrant showcase of our individual skills, collective passions, and the transformative power of music. Engage with your fellow Brothers to share insights, collaborate on performances, and support each other’s musical endeavors. This month is not just about displaying our talents; it’s about inspiring and being inspired by the powerful stories and experiences that music brings into our lives.
Update #3: 28th Annual Collegiate Marching Band Festival
I am thrilled to announce that Kappa Kappa Psi will host a booth at the 2024 Collegiate Marching Band Festival in Allentown on October 6th. I will personally be there to support and cheer for all the bands, with a special cheer for our Brothers in the field. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate our shared passion for music. This event also serves as an excellent precursor to our National Month of Musicianship, helping us gear up for even more musical celebrations. For more details about the schedule and our specific activities at the festival, please visit their website. Also, keep an eye on our social media accounts for updates and information about when and where we will be gathering to sing together.
We are currently working on plans to attend the 2025 Honda Battle of the Bands in Los Angeles, a premier event that showcases the incredible talent and spirit of HBCU marching bands from across the nation. As we aim to support and celebrate these musical showcases, we encourage our members and alumni to suggest other major band events where Kappa Kappa Psi’s presence could amplify our impact and visibility. Engaging with these events not only strengthens our network but also provides unparalleled opportunities for our members to experience the breadth of musicianship and fellowship that the band community offers. Your input is invaluable as we continue to plan our involvement in these enriching musical activities. If you are aware of local competitions, regional festivals, or national events that resonate with our mission, please reach out by sending an email to council@kkpsi.org.
Update #4: Upcoming Live Streams
Arupa, our National Vice President for Student Affairs, is hosting a VPSA Chat on October 15th to help us prepare for the National Month of Musicianship! Additionally, another livestream is planned to highlight our National Vice President for Membership & Expansion, Dr. Nicholas Rorrer, along with our Expansion Committee. This session will focus on the petitioning and expansion process, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in (re)chartering a chapter on their campus. It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone interested to learn about the steps involved and engage directly with national leadership on best practices for expansion.
Following this, another VPSA Chat is scheduled for November, which will concentrate on the audition process for our 2025 National Intercollegiate Band, featuring insights from our National Vice President for Professional Relations, Dr. William Lake, Jr (ΚΚΨ) and Dr. LaToya Webb (ΤΒΣ). These sessions are invaluable for staying informed and engaged with Kappa Kappa Psi’s activities, offering both a deep dive into specific areas of our operations and the chance to interact with our national leaders. Don’t miss out!
Update #5: Important Member Feedback Surveys
Your participation in our Member Feedback Surveys is crucial for ensuring that your voice is heard and acted upon. Each survey is designed with a clear and specific purpose, directly influencing our National Council’s ability to create meaningful and intentional changes that enhance the fraternity experience for all. These surveys are pivotal in driving the growth and strengthening the foundations of Kappa Kappa Psi. We encourage every member to take these opportunities to contribute to the strategic direction and continuous improvement of our organization.
Here are the key surveys currently available for your input:
- District Convention Survey: Gather feedback on your experiences and the overall execution of our 2024 district conventions so we can look ahead to making 2025 even better!
- NVPSA’s Feedback Form: Provide specific insights into your interactions with our Vice President for Student Affairs and how these interactions impact your chapter and personal fraternity experience.
- Climate Survey: Be on the lookout for our Fall 2024 Climate Survey, which is set to send out on November 1, 2024. Help us understand the social and cultural atmosphere within the fraternity, ensuring it remains inclusive and supportive.
Your feedback in these areas is vital! By sharing your experiences and suggestions, you help us shape a fraternity that truly reflects the values and needs of its members. Please take a moment to fill out these surveys. Together, let’s work to continue making Kappa Kappa Psi an even more inclusive and authentic space for band leaders.
Update #6: October & November Crown Pearl Goals
On behalf of the National Leadership Team, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the chapters that have participated in our Crown Pearl Goals initiative so far! It has been truly inspiring to see the outstanding work and dedication from our chapters across the country. Your efforts are a testament to the strength and spirit of Kappa Kappa Psi.
Stay tuned for more details coming soon on how chapters can submit their progress. We’re also preparing to share additional information about our November Crown Pearl Goals. This next phase will provide even more opportunities for chapters to showcase their achievements and continue to strive for excellence in serving and uplifting college and university bands.
Important Links
| Ari’s 2024 Fall Schedule | Mason’s 2024 Fall Schedule |
| Chapter Resources Folder | Calendar & Activity Review Forms |
––––––––––––
As we march into this Spooky Season, let us embrace the spirit of change and creativity that it brings. While the leaves turn and the air chills, our commitment to excellence and service continues to warm the community around us. Every act of service, every moment of leadership, and every instance of dedication you display not only strengthens our Fraternity but also paves the way for a brighter future for college and university bands across the nation.
Let’s carry this momentum forward, not just through the twists and turns of October but throughout the entire year and the rest of this biennium. With each step we take on #TheKappaKappaPsiJourney, we are building something extraordinary—something that will endure long after we have passed the torch. Stay inspired, stay committed, and let’s continue to make this year one of spirited service, growth, and unparalleled achievement. Let our music and actions infuse this season with a sense of unity and celebration, embodying the true spirit of brotherhood and joy!
In Spookiness,
|
