From the Desk of the National President: January 2024 Updates
Brothers –
As we step boldly into the start of 2024, I extend warm New Year wishes to each of you on behalf of the National Council and Leadership Team. The journey of this biennium has been akin to a spirited march, with its share of highs and lows, yet made all the more remarkable by the unwavering support of a resilient and engaged team. It’s easy to become overly fixated on the successes and failures, when the focus should be on the broader journey, emphasizing progress and growth. This is a path where preparation is key, but acknowledging the unpredictability and lack of control remains equally vital. As I reflect on our first quarter together, I am reminded of our fraternity’s 104-year journey and how the themes of purpose, persistence, and perseverance are as relevant today as they were throughout our organization’s history.
In the spirit of shared reflection, I am excited to share updates and highlights that pave the way for an inspiring 2024. While I understand the constraints of time, these monthly statements are crafted with the sole purpose of keeping you informed. The engagement, as always, is yours to embrace.
Update #1: “Friend & Advocate” Initiative
Last month, we introduced the Friend and Advocate Initiative, a program designed to provide personalized support to our chapters, regardless of their status. This initiative will equip Alumni members with the latest insights into Kappa Kappa Psi practices, utilizing resources like the Road to Wisdom and our Chapter Operations Resources to support and strengthen our chapters across the country.
Friend and Advocate Initiative Application Form
If you haven’t already, we extend a warm invitation to our Alumni members to apply for the ‘Alpha Cohort’ of the Friend and Advocate Initiative. The application window remains open until January 10th, 2024, and cohort training is set to start in mid-February. To qualify for this program, membership in the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association is required. For any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Nicholas Rorrer at nic@kkpsi.org.
Update #2: National Executive Director Job Description
The search for our next National Executive Director is in full swing with the release of the new and comprehensive job description. This document outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for this integral position. Your engagement is crucial in spreading the word about this exciting opportunity. We invite each of you to share the job description within your networks, communities, and among those who may possess the unique qualities to lead our Headquarters staff and operations.
National Executive Director Job Description
You can access the National Executive Director Job Description using the link above. We encourage you to explore it thoroughly and, if possible, share it with individuals who align with the ideals and values of our organizations.
Update #3: National Winter Council Meeting
Every January, our National Council gathers for our annual National Winter Council Meeting, where we discuss and decide on important matters that shape our fraternity. One key focus is reviewing the status of chapters based on their reports and dues/fees. If your chapter hasn’t completed these submissions, we kindly ask you to do so promptly. If you encounter any issues with OPUS or need assistance with your report/funds submission, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our HQ at kkytbs@kkytbs.org.
Our National Winter Council Meeting is scheduled to take place between January 11-14, 2024, with Dr. Rorrer and me conducting the final round of interviews for our Chapter Field Representative search just days before. As we’ll be deep in meetings, please excuse any delay in responses during this period. For urgent matters, feel free to reach out to HQ.
Update #4: Upcoming Virtual Workshops
As highlighted in my communication from September 2023, our national committees will be actively engaged in providing a series of impactful virtual workshops, tailored to enhance the journey of each Active member. These sessions are designed to equip our members with practical skills and knowledge that will foster success within Kappa Kappa Psi, in their academic pursuits, and their future endeavors.
- Social Media Best Practices Workshop: Explore effective social media strategies for recruitment and service promotion led by our National Committee on Communications. Gain skills to enhance your online presence and strengthen fraternity bonds.
- DEIA Workshop for Chapters: Join the National Committee on DEIA for a workshop on fundamental concepts and practices. Deepen your understanding and implement impactful strategies as we enter the new year.
Stay tuned for more details on specific dates, times, and registration instructions. These workshops are tailored to empower you with practical knowledge and skills, fostering both personal and collective growth within our fraternity. Your engagement in these sessions will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of Kappa Kappa Psi.
DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS
Highlight #1: Midwest Clinic
We were thrilled to return to Chicago for the 2023 Midwest Clinic, and delighted to share a booth with Tau Beta Sigma. Despite the absence of some affiliate organizations at the conference, we valued the opportunity to showcase our joint presence and programs alongside Tau Beta Sigma. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. William Lake, KKPsi VP for Professional Relations, and Dr. LaToya Webb, TBSigma VP for Professional Relations, for orchestrating the engaging group activity, The Goosechase, which added an extra layer of excitement (and competitiveness) to the event.
Throughout the conference, we experienced the joy of reconnecting with numerous alumni members, cherishing the chance to catch up and share memories. In a move towards financial responsibility, we made the decision not to host an alumni/director reception this year. While we understand that this news brought disappointment to many alumni and directors, we are eagerly exploring more cost-effective ways to foster a space for alumni to come together, celebrate, and strengthen the bonds of our fraternity. Please stay tuned for updates on the 2024 Midwest Clinic and other conferences.
Highlight #2: Congratulations to the Bands of the Year
The first annual Historically Black College and University Band of the Year national championship, held on December 15, 2023, at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, showcased the incredible talents of Division I and Division II HBCU bands. This inaugural event not only crowns season-long champions but also elevates the significance of halftime performances, making every show a vital part of the college football experience.
We extend heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Band of the Year, the Blue & Gold Marching Machine (North Carolina A&T), and the ROAR Marching Band (Florida Memorial)! The dedication and artistry displayed by both of these programs reflect the impact and prowess of HBCU band programs across the country. We commend these programs for their exceptional musicality, showmanship, and overall brilliance. We take immense pride in having chapters at both institutions, and their achievements underscore the dedication and excellence that our fraternity represents. Bravi tutti!
Highlight #3: AEA Scholarship Recipients
In our unwavering commitment to “Striving for the Highest,” we recognize that excellence extends beyond the realm of service to others; it is also deeply rooted in our members’ success in the classroom and their academic achievement. We take immense pride in congratulating our outstanding AEA Scholarship Recipients who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their academic pursuits.
Distinguished Scholars
- Jessica Alcorn
- Megan Ledgerwood
- Cade Skuse
- Ashley Swanson
Honored Scholar
- Christopher Allen
Their achievements stand as a testament to the multifaceted nature of our commitment to excellence, encompassing both service to others and personal academic growth. As they continue to inspire with their accomplishments, we celebrate their academic prowess and look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will undoubtedly make on the world. Congratulations to these bright minds, and may their success serve as a beacon for others to follow in their pursuit of excellence!
Highlight #4: Convention Dates and Locations
Save the dates and mark your calendars for our 2024 District Conventions and our 2025 National Convention! Stay tuned for detailed information on registration, schedules, and special events that will make these conventions memorable milestones in our fraternal journey.
- Northeast District Convention: March 8-10, 2024 | Poughkeepsie, NY
- Southeast District Convention: March 21-23, 2024 | Raleigh, NC
- North Central District Convention: April 5-7, 2024 | Fort Wayne, IN
- Southwest District Convention: April 5-7, 2024 | Wichita Falls, TX
- Midwest District Convention: April 12-14, 2024 | Des Moines, IA
- Western District Convention: April 12-14, 2024 | San Rafael, CA
- National Convention: July 15-18, 2025 | Lexington, KY
If you have not had a chance to read the full announcement yet, please take a moment to review it here: https://www.kkpsi.org/natcon25/
As we embark on this new year, I invite each Brother to pause, reflect, and celebrate their own personal journey through the past year. In the rhythm of leadership, service, and action, it’s easy to overlook the importance of intentional reflection. Like a compass pointing us forward, we must carry the lessons of yesterday as we march into the future. Our tools and knowledge may guide us, but the wisdom gleaned from our experiences is equally crucial. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities for growth and excellence that await us in 2024!
Yours in Brotherhood & Service,
Bang T. Co
National President, Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity
Life Member, Alpha Zeta Chapter at Indiana University
Launching the Friend and Advocate Initiative – Call for the Alpha Cohort
Brothers,
It is with great pleasure that we announce the launch of the “Friend and Advocate Initiative.” This program is born out of the need to provide more individualized support for our chapters, be it our longstanding chapters, our new petitioning groups, or our chapters undergoing the “ReCharge” process. The goal of this initiative is to train Alumni members of the Fraternity to be up-to-date with the current practices of the Fraternity, such as the Road to Wisdom or our Chapter Operations (CHOPS) resources. Ultimately, we want to train and enable our Alumni members to support our chapters.
This desire and need brings us to today, where we are inviting our Alumni members to apply to be part of the ‘Alpha Cohort’ of the Friend and Advocate Initiative. Members of this cohort will be selected to be Petitioning and ReCharge Group advisor moving forward. In fact, the lessons of the cohort are designed to reflect the material that will be taught to members of petitioning and recharge groups. This includes:
- Lesson 1. Our Service – A review of our policies, our work, discussions on designing successful service projects, and chapter operations resources for Chapter Service officers
- Lesson 2. Our Leadership – An Introduction to the Founders Circle, discussions on how to run Chapter meetings, and chapter operations resources for Chapter Presidents
- Lesson 3. Our Musicianship – An Introduction to the NIB, discussions on how to design fundraisers, and chapter operations resources for Chapter Treasurers
- Lesson 4. Our Brotherhood – An Introduction to the Strive for Five Initiative, discussions on successful recruitment strategies, and chapter operations resources for Chapter Vice Presidents of Membership
- Lesson 5. Our Journey – An Introduction to the Alumni Association, discussions on the inner circle, and the current biennium plan
Additionally, all lessons will also cover the related Road to Wisdom lessons. As this is the ‘Alpha Cohort,’ we fully expect that we will develop and refine this program throughout this process. The expected time commitment for this cohort is 2-3 hours a week. We also expect to host multiple cohorts throughout this biennium and next. If you are interested in applying, you can do so here:
Friend and Advocate Initiative Application Form
We are hoping that this initial cohort will have 20-30 members. The application will be open till January 10th, 2023 and the cohort training will begin mid-February. To be eligible for this program, you must be a current member of the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please contact Dr. Nic Rorrer (nic@kkpsi.org). We hope that many of you will be part of this or future cohorts.
AEA,
From the Desk of the National President: December 2023 Updates
Brothers –
As we bid farewell to November and embrace the festive spirit of December, I extend warm greetings to each of you on behalf of the National Council and Leadership Team. This past month has been filled with many moments to be grateful for, and I’m proud to share the latest updates as we collectively steer Kappa Kappa Psi along this journey. Let’s dive into the latest updates and look forward to the exciting developments awaiting us in the coming month!
December Updates
Update #1: “Friend & Advocate” Initiative
On behalf of Dr. Rorrer, I am excited to introduce to you one of his key endeavors this biennium, the “Friend and Advocate Initiative,” which is a program designed to offer personalized support to our chapters, whether they are well-established, newly petitioning, or undergoing the “ReCharge” process. The initiative aims to empower Alumni members with the latest insights into Kappa Kappa Psi practices, including the Road to Wisdom and Chapter Operations (CHOPS) resources. Our goal is to equip Alumni members to provide valuable support to our Chapters.
Today, we invite our Alumni members to apply for the ‘Alpha Cohort’ of the “Friend and Advocate Initiative”. Members of this cohort will play a crucial role as advisors to Petitioning and Recharge Groups, with their lessons tailored to align with the material taught to these groups. Join us in this exciting endeavor to strengthen the bonds within our fraternity and support the growth of our Chapters.
Friend and Advocate Initiative Application Form
The application will be open till January 10th, 2023 and the cohort training will begin mid-February. To be eligible for this program, you must be a member of the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please contact Dr. Nic Rorrer (nic@kkpsi.org).
Update #2: Important Deadlines
Brothers, a friendly reminder that December 1st marks the deadline for several important items:
- Fall Activity Report (FAR): the FAR is required of each chapter and must be approved by your Sponsor & Director of Bands in OPUS no later than December 1st of each year.
- Chapter Field Representative (CFR) Application: Interested in shaping the future of Kappa Kappa Psi? Don’t miss the December 1st deadline to apply for the 2024-2026 CFR term.
- Submissions for The Podium (Spring 2024): Share your unique experiences and insights with the Kappa Kappa Psi community by submitting content for The Podium’s Spring 2024 edition. The deadline is December 1st.
- Graduating Senior Report (GSR): Reminder that Graduating Senior Reports are due within 30 days of graduation and require Sponsor & Director of Bands approval.
Update #3: End-of-Year Giving
As we approach the end of the year, consider participating in one of our giving programs. Your end-of-year giving contributes to the continued success of our Fraternity, our mission, and our overall impact on college/university bands across the country.
- Kappa Kappa Psi Giving Program: The Giving Program is a donation program designed for those who find monthly contributions to Kappa Kappa Psi more manageable than an annual donation.
- Max Mitchell Grant: The Max Mitchell Grant Program is designed to help support the members of the National Intercollegiate Band (NIB).
- Stanley G. Finck Fund: One of the most exciting contributions made to the work of collegiate music during the last 70 years has been the National Intercollegiate Band program of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.
- Do you have an interest that isn’t listed here? Ask Dr. Malinda Matney, Board Chair, to talk with you about what you have in mind. Email her at mmatney@umich.edu.
Update #4: Renew Your Alumni Association Membership
Memberships in the Alumni Association run on a calendar year, meaning membership expires on December 31st of each year and must be renewed in order to attend any district or national conventions or participate in any LAA-related activities.
- Graduating Seniors: Graduating seniors are granted complimentary provisional membership into the Alumni Association based on the time of year they graduate. May Graduates receive complimentary membership for one year, seven months (June 1 – December 31 of the next year). December Graduates receive complimentary membership for one year (January 1 – December 31). The chapter must submit a Graduating Senior Report for graduating seniors to receive their complimentary year. However, if they want full voting rights in the Alumni Association they will need to use this form.
- Non-Life Members: Non-Life members can either join the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association at either the $50 full-membership tier or the $15 Local Alumni Association-only tier. Full membership includes additional benefits like access to conventions, the ability to vote in KKΨAA business, access to KKΨAA programming, the ability to serve on committees, and access to our newsletters. The limited tier LAA-only membership is a new constitutional requirement of the KKΨAA, voted on by our membership to aid the fraternity in risk management and offset the organizational costs of supporting LAAs. All LAA members will be required to join the KKPsiAA at one of the two tiers by the June 1, 2024, annual report deadline for LAAs.
- Life Members: All current AA memberships will expire as of 12/31/2023 if you do not renew your membership. You can still renew past this deadline, but you will not be an AA Member until your renewal form has been submitted and your dues have been paid. The membership year will run from 01/01/2024 to 12/31/2024. Please note: the AA does not prorate dues to account for later form submissions. Life members currently pay $0 in annual dues.
November HIGHLIGHTS
Highlight #1: Convention Dates and Locations
Save the dates and mark your calendars for our 2024 District Conventions and our 2025 National Convention! Stay tuned for detailed information on registration, schedules, and special events that will make these conventions memorable milestones in our fraternal journey.
- Northeast District Convention: March 8-10, 2024 | Marist College (Poughkeepsie, NY)
- Southeast District Convention: March 21-23, 2024 | Raleigh, NC
- North Central District Convention: April 5-7, 2024 | Fort Wayne, IN
- Southwest District Convention: April 5-7, 2024 | Wichita Falls, TX
- Midwest District Convention: April 12-14, 2024 | Des Moines, IA
- Western District Convention: April 12-14, 2024 | San Rafael, CA
- National Convention: July 15-18, 2025 | Lexington, KY
If you have not had a chance to read the full announcement yet, please take a moment to review here: https://www.kkpsi.org/natcon25/.
Highlight #2: NIB Conductor & Composer
We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 National Intercollegiate Band (NIB) will be conducted by Jason Fettig, a distinguished conductor renowned for his musical prowess who previously served as the 28th director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, and is the incoming Director of Bands at the University of Michigan. Additionally, we are honored to feature the talents of Composer Kevin Day, one of the leading young voices in the world of music composition today, who currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Composition at Wilfrid Laurier University. We look forward to their partnership as they craft this vision into a reality for our members and performers!
If you missed our “Meet the 2025 NIB Conductor and Composer” Livestream, you can view it here: https://fb.watch/oEHa05SJv2/.
Highlight #3: 104th Founders’ Day
Our 104th Founders’ Day on November 27th was a momentous occasion filled with reflection, camaraderie, and pride in our shared history. I extend heartfelt gratitude to all Brothers who actively participated, shared their personal Kappa Kappa Psi stories, and posted memorable pictures using the hashtags #KKPsiFoundersDay and #104YearsofKKPsi. Your contributions made this celebration truly special, emphasizing the enduring impact of our fraternity!
If you haven’t had a chance to watch the special message, please take a moment to view it here: https://youtu.be/_EhQAXTriGs.
Special Note: Steve Nelson’s Retirement
On November 29th, we sent out an email to announce the retirement of Steve Nelson from his position as National Executive Director of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. Steve’s dedicated service to our organizations has spanned nine years, leaving an indelible mark on both KKPsi and TBSigma. Steve’s journey with Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma has been remarkable. His unwavering commitment to our shared values of leadership, musicianship, and service for greater bands has been an inspiration to us all. Before and throughout his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in advancing the missions of both organizations, ensuring their continued growth and success.
Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Steve Nelson for his leadership and service. We will be forever thankful for his passion, guidance, and commitment to our membership, and look forward to the ways that he will continue to contribute and be involved in the future. If you would like to send a personal message or share your thoughts with Steve as he embarks on this new chapter, please feel free to do so at nelson@kkytbs.org.
In the coming weeks, we will begin the search for a new National Executive Director who will build upon the important work of both organizations. We are committed to finding an individual who shares our values and dedication to the mission of our organizations. Thank you, Steve, for your exceptional service, and we wish you a retirement filled with joy, fulfillment, and continued success in all your endeavors!
As we approach the close of 2023, let’s carry the spirit of unity, dedication, and celebration into the new year. Your commitment to Kappa Kappa Psi is the driving force behind our collective success. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities for growth and excellence that await us in 2024!
Yours in Brotherhood & Service,
|
Retirement Announcement of Steve Nelson, National Executive Director of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma
Dear Members of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma:
We hope this message finds you well. Today, it is our duty to announce the retirement of Steve Nelson from his position as National Executive Director of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. Steve’s dedicated service to our organizations has spanned nine years, leaving an indelible mark on both KKPsi and TBSigma.
Steve’s journey with Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma has been remarkable. His unwavering commitment to our shared values of leadership, musicianship, and service for greater bands has been an inspiration to us all. Before and throughout his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in advancing the missions of both organizations, ensuring their continued growth and success.
Under Steve’s leadership as National Executive Director, we have witnessed significant achievements and milestones that have strengthened our Fraternity and Sorority: celebrating the Centennial of Kappa Kappa Psi and the Diamond Anniversary of Tau Beta Sigma; expanding our National Headquarters property; purchasing a new facility to support our staff; and developing increasingly sophisticated technical tools to support members and leaders in their ongoing work. Steve’s passion for the arts and education has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that have enhanced the collegiate band experience for students across the nation. His passion for honorary organizations such as ours led to his recent presidency of the Professional Fraternity Association. Steve’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, serving as a source of inspiration for generations to come. Steve himself will continue to be an important Brother and Sister, and he will cherish this opportunity to experience the organizations without the day-to-day responsibilities that our National Headquarters has.
Steve has shared these thoughts: “I have deep gratitude for my time as National Executive Director and I am very thankful for the many wonderful people that I met and worked with. Thank you for the opportunity to serve the organizations and I hope we can continue with the best spirits of brotherhood and sisterhood.”
Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Steve Nelson for his leadership and service. We will be forever thankful for his passion, guidance, and commitment to our membership, and look forward to the ways that he will continue to contribute and be involved in the future. If you would like to send a personal message or share your thoughts with Steve as he embarks on this new chapter, please feel free to do so at nelson@kkytbs.org.
In the coming weeks, we will begin the search for a new National Executive Director who will build upon the important work of both organizations. We are committed to finding an individual who shares our values and dedication to the mission of our organizations.
Thank you, Steve, for your exceptional service, and we wish you a retirement filled with joy, fulfillment, and continued success in all your endeavors.
Sincerely,
Bang T. Co, Kappa Kappa Psi National President
Siobhan Wilkes Bratcher, Tau Beta Sigma National President
Dr. Malinda Matney, Kappa Kappa Psi Board of Trustees Chairperson
Rosalyn McDonald, Tau Beta Sigma Board of Trustees Chairperson
Official Joint Announcement of the 2025 National Convention Host City
Sisters and Brothers of Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi –
It is our honor and privilege to announce the host city and dates of our 2025 ΚΚΨ & ΤΒΣ National Convention. After ten years, we are excited to return to the scenic and charming city of Lexington, Kentucky on July 15-18, 2025. Lexington’s musical history is as rich and diverse as the notes that define our two organizations. From the classical pieces that fill the Lexington Opera House to the vibrant tunes that resonate from the various music festivals, Lexington’s musical legacy will add a unique and uniting touch to our convention.
Adding to the musical depth of our convention, we are thrilled to announce that the 2025 National Intercollegiate Band (NIB) will be conducted by Jason Fettig, a distinguished conductor renowned for his musical prowess who previously served as the 28th director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, and is the incoming Director of Bands at the University of Michigan. Additionally, we are honored to feature the talents of Composer Kevin Day, one of the leading young voices in the world of music composition today, who currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Composition at Wilfrid Laurier University. We look forward to their partnership as they craft this vision into a reality for our members and performers. In the meantime, we invite all Brothers and Sisters to tune into our livestream where we will get to meet them and learn more about their musical journeys. This will take place on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at 6:00 PM CT on our national Facebook pages.
As we convene in Lexington in 2025, we will mark a decade since our last national convention in this city. The convention center, a cornerstone of our previous gatherings, has undergone a remarkable $300 million transformation, which was completed in January 2022. A comprehensive renovation and expansion has elevated it to new heights of sophistication and functionality, offering a stunning venue that perfectly complements the grandeur of our shared celebration. We are very excited to be in the re-imagined space of The Central Bank Center, which is within easy walking distance of over 75 restaurants, numerous theaters, shops, and galleries, and offers a small-town charm with big-city amenities. We extend our deepest gratitude to the city of Lexington for its warm embrace and commitment to making this convention a resounding success.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, we want to reaffirm to you our commitment to ensuring that the 2025 ΚΚΨ & ΤΒΣ National Convention in Lexington remains an affordable and convenient experience for all our members. With a focus on affordability, we have secured discounted accommodations and budget-friendly dining options, allowing members the opportunity to partake in our 40th Joint National Convention. Notably, Lexington’s central location is a key highlight, serving as a convenient hub accessible to nearly 80% of our chapters. In addition to prioritizing affordability and convenience, we are actively exploring innovative ways to enhance the convention experience. We believe in creating an immersive and well-rounded experience that goes beyond the convention venue. As we look ahead, we are excited about the opportunity to work closely with the city of Lexington and our convention hosts to identify and secure other great options and opportunities for our members.
In the context of the ongoing uncertainties in the world, it’s important to emphasize our unwavering dedication to providing a platform for member concerns. It is crucial to note that conversations and decisions regarding each national convention commence years in advance. This meticulous planning involves entering negotiations and signing contracts with hotels and convention sites early on, strategically seeking the best deals available. This proactive approach significantly contributes to our overarching efforts to ensure both the affordability and security of our national conventions. While the future landscape by July 2025 remains uncertain, our commitment to transparency and member engagement remains resolute. We encourage you to share your thoughts and questions through our Building Our Best Convention: Member Feedback Form for NatCon25. Your invaluable input will be instrumental in shaping the convention as we approach this significant event.
Be sure to mark your calendars for July 15-18, 2025 the 2025 ΚΚΨ & ΤΒΣ National Convention in Lexington! Further details, including dates, venues, and registration information, will be shared in the upcoming months. Stay connected with us on social media and our official channels for the latest updates and announcements. We invite you to share your excitement on social media using #NATCON25 and let the world know that we are bringing the spirit of music, leadership, and service to the heart of Kentucky!
Looking ahead to 2025 in Lexington, we’re excited to join together for another convention filled with music, learning, and camaraderie.
Yours in the Bond,
| Steven C. NelsonNational Executive Director Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma |
Bang T. CoNational President, Kappa Kappa Psi Life Member, Alpha Zeta Chapter |
Siobhan Wilkes BratcherNational President, Tau Beta Sigma Life Member, Beta Zeta Chapter |
In Loving Memory of Jean Newman
Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi,
It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of one of our beloved Sisters and an Honorary Member of the National Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, Jean Newman. As we come together with Tau Beta Sigma in mourning, we recognize the profound impact she had not only on the Sorority but within Kappa Kappa Psi as well.
Jean was the 25th National President of Tau Beta Sigma, presiding over the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Sorority from 1993-1995. A Life Member of the Zeta Xi chapter at San Diego State University, Jean also served as Vice Chair and Chair of our Board of Trustees. With all her heart, Jean loved Tau Beta Sigma and unselfishly gave her time, talents, and gifts to our organization for more than 40 years. Jean was a true mentor who inspired others with her independence, strength, and consistent leadership. She will forever be remembered for her kindness and loyalty and for living the ideals and principles of our organization in every aspect of her life.
To share remembrances, photographs, or notes of gratitude with the Joint National Chapter please use the following form: https://www.tbsigma.org/remembrances/. The Tau Beta Sigma National Council plans to use submissions for the Sorority’s 2025 National Convention Memorial Ceremony. If you plan to share your memories via social media, please include the hashtag #TBSigmaRemembers.
Recognizing the significance of personal reflections and stories that illuminate the essence of Jean’s influence on Kappa Kappa Psi, I asked Past National President Tim Greenwell to share his personal experiences with Jean and the impact that she had on him as a Brother and leader of our Fraternity.
“Jean Newman saw no boundaries or limitations in nurturing the joint relationships of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. She continually modeled the shared opportunities possible to all of us through open communication, inclusiveness, collaborative discussions, and thoughtful planning. I knew during my service as a national officer, and ever since, that Jean was someone I could go to for perspective and empowerment to be the best Brother and Sister in working with others to move the organizations forward. She personally encouraged me to stay on the pathway of service on the national level and celebrated each achievement as if we were related by blood. For her, there was never a question of the Bond being strong and personal. I always admired her honest, straightforward, tell it like it is, get it done demeanor; and I will now miss those traits and her presence in our lives.”
— Tim Greenwell, Past National President, Kappa Kappa Psi
As we navigate this period of mourning, let us draw strength from the bond that unites us as Sisters and Brothers of Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi. Together, we honor Jean Newman’s memory, celebrating the life of a remarkable leader, friend, and mentor.
In the Bond,
Bang T. Co
National President, Kappa Kappa Psi
Honorary Member, National Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma
Life Member, Alpha Zeta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi
From the Desk of the National President: November 2023 Updates
Brothers –
On behalf of the National Leadership Team, I would like to extend warm greetings and wish you a happy start to your November! October was an incredibly eventful and productive month, and I’m delighted to take a moment to share with you a few highlights to recap the fantastic progress we made. In addition, I’m excited to provide you with a preview of some exciting developments to look forward to this month. Please take a moment to read through the rest of this message below.
November Highlights
Highlight #1: Fall Activity Report
The first report through the new OPUS membership portal is in the books! Many thanks to all the chapters that submitted their Chapter Personnel Reports (CPR) and dues/fees on time. As of today, we have 74.6% of all CPRs in and our HQ staff are hard at work making sure everything is processed correctly. If you are still having issues with your CPR, please reach out to HQ as soon as possible to get everything submitted. Now, it’s time to focus on the Fall Activity Report (FAR), which is due by December 1, 2023. Be on the lookout for more information, resources, and office hours for assistance with the FAR.
**Note: I would like to also extend my deepest appreciation to our HQ staff members, particularly Aaron Moore, Nicole Brooks, and Debbie Morris, for their support and guidance to our students and Chapter Sponsors/DoBs during the CPR process. We could not have gone through this as smoothly without their help and leadership.
Highlight #2: Chapter Field Representatives Applications
We are pleased to announce the launch of our Chapter Field Representative (CFR) Hiring Process for the 2024-2026 term. The application will be open from November 1st through December 1st with phone interviews anticipated to take place mid-December and in-person interviews in early January. If you or anyone you know is interested in this role, please visit our application site for more information.
*Note: I would like to extend my profound gratitude to our current CFRs, Jake January and Kennedy Struck, for their unwavering dedication and guidance in this process. Their remarkable service to the Fraternity over the past three years has been nothing short of exceptional, and their support has been an invaluable asset in my journey as a national officer.
Highlight #3: Celebrating our Month of Musicianship
In keeping with tradition, November is designated as our Month of Musicianship, and this year, we are channeling our enthusiasm toward the celebration of one of our most profound and impactful programs, the National Intercollegiate Band (NIB). We are actively working to provide you with different opportunities to engage, participate, and celebrate in this special event. Stay tuned for more details on how you can help uplift the NIB and celebrate our dedication to musicianship.
Highlight #4: Celebrating our 104th Founders’ Day
I am excited to celebrate Kappa Kappa Psi’s 104th Founders’ Day on November 27th, 2023! This special occasion is a cherished time for Brothers spanning generations and geographic locations to unite once again in celebration of our illustrious history, the vibrancy of our present, and the promising journey that lies ahead. I extend a warm invitation to all Brothers to dedicate a moment for self-reflection on their own fraternal journey and the profound impact that Kappa Kappa Psi has had on their lives. Furthermore, on November 27th, I encourage all Brothers to actively participate by sharing their personal Kappa Kappa Psi stories and posting pictures of their most memorable fraternal experiences. Please use the hashtags #KKPsiFoundersDay and #104YearsofKKPsi as we come together to honor our remarkable journey.
Highlight #5: Fraternal Law Conference
We are looking forward to continuing our presence at the annual Fraternal Law Conference in Cincinnati, OH this year. Dr. Rorrer (NVPME), Nicole Brooks (National Chapter Support Coordinator), and I will be there to represent Kappa Kappa Psi between November 2nd-4th. This is an example of one of the many behind-the-scenes activities the National Council works on throughout the biennium. While this may not be considered as “sexy” as the more public-facing work that we do, our participation at this event is essential to our work as a national organization. Staying at the forefront of trends, legal matters, and current affairs is our commitment to safeguarding Kappa Kappa Psi against potential challenges and fostering its continued growth.
October Recap
Update #1: KKPsi Giving Program Town Hall
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Alumni Association Board of Directors for organizing the Kappa Kappa Psi Giving Program Town Hall. This took place on October 3rd and it was a fantastic opportunity for Dr. Matney and me to engage with our existing donors. Our Giving Program is open to all members (active & alumni) and friends of KKPsi to participate in and as you are thinking about your end-of-year giving, please check out the site for more information (Learn More about the Giving Program).
Update #2: Virtual Workshops & Sessions
With over 100 unique attendees, our virtual workshops and sessions throughout October have been a great success! Many thanks to all those who attended and to our presenters on creating a productive learning environment. You can use the following link to access the recordings: October 2023 Virtual Workshops & Sessions.
Update #3: Iota Theta Chapter Installation
I am thrilled to share the wonderful news of the successful rechartering and installation of the Iota Theta Chapter at Morehouse College. This exciting journey began in early September of this semester, with a petitioning group of 19 dedicated band members from Morehouse, led by Phillip Redden and supported by their Director of Bands, Dr. Chad Hughes. The official installation ceremony took place on Morehouse’s campus on Sunday, October 22nd, 2023. You can read more about this exciting news here: Iota Theta Recharter.
Update #4: Celebrating our 100th Day in Office
The National Council celebrated our 100th Day in office, marking a significant milestone in our biennium. It was an excellent occasion to reflect on the progress we’ve made so far. As we are taught in our fraternal experience, I encourage all Brothers to take a moment to appreciate their individual contributions to our collective journey as Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi. We are always excited to celebrate your successes and journey so please submit your story to The Podium!
Update #5: Board of Trustees Appointment
After a thorough process, I am excited to welcome Brother Franklin “Frankie” Johnson-Norwood, Life Member of the Zeta Psi Chapter at Virginia State University, to the National Leadership Team and Board of Trustees! If you missed his installation ceremony and Q&A session, which took place on October 25th, please check our Facebook page for details.
Update #6: Share Your Bandtober Activities
Throughout the month of October, my heart filled with joy as I saw so many posts celebrating the unifying spirit of band and our profound love for music. From inspiring joint performances to the heartwarming reunions of alumni bands, I was thrilled to witness the unity of Brothers and musicians from across the nation. Whether it was during DCI Finals Weekend, the National Battle of the Bands, the Collegiate Marching Band Festival, homecoming events, or countless other occasions, it was heartwarming to see everyone come together to share their passion for this unique and cherished activity that we fondly call “banding.” We are eager to showcase these remarkable Bandtober moments and invite all Brothers to share their experiences with us, allowing us to highlight them on our social media platforms! You can easily submit your photos here: Submit Your Photos.
As we venture into the promising month of November together, I would like to share my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering commitment to Kappa Kappa Psi. I am truly excited to witness the remarkable contributions and achievements that lie ahead for our Brotherhood. Like any voyage, we understand that it will come with its own set of challenges and triumphs. Yet, it is in these moments that we find opportunities for growth and the pursuit of excellence. Let’s navigate this journey together, forging ahead to elevate our fraternity to unprecedented heights, secure in the knowledge that our collective efforts will shape a brighter and more inspiring future for Kappa Kappa Psi. AEA.
Yours in Brotherhood & Service,
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Fall 2023 – Announcement of Chapter Installation
This process would not have been possible without the help of our dedicated Advising Team, which was led by SED Governor, J.P. Davis. The Advising Team also consisted of several Brothers, who are listed below. Thank you to these Brothers for their guidance and leadership in this process. We are deeply grateful for their service and support.
Morehouse College Advising Team
- Marina Peña Guiot (ΚΚΨ Life Member – Kappa Mu and Nu Alpha, KKΨAA BOD Chair)
- Shawn McNeill (ΚΚΨ – Theta Tau)
- Callie Christiansen (ΚΚΨ – Mu Nu)
Lastly, we would like to give thanks to all the chapters and alumni members who made the trip to provide support in the installation ceremony for the Iota Theta chapter, including previous members of the Chapter. It was extremely heartwarming to see everyone come together to welcome our new Brothers. Please help us congratulate and welcome them to the Brotherhood! AEA.
If you or anyone you know has questions about our petitioning process, please visit our Expansion page or email me at nic@kkpsi.org.
October 2023 Online Sessions
Please access the recordings of each session using the links below.
- VPM+RTW Training Workshop (Oct. 3, 2023)
- Chapter Officer Training Workshop (Oct. 11, 2023)
- CFR Interest + Info Call (Oct. 15, 2023)
- Ritual Performance + Education Workshop (Oct. 23, 2023)
- Passcode: [our password]+[founding year]+!! (all lowercase and no spaces)
Board of Trustees Appointment
Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi –
I hope you are doing well and enjoying all the changes that October has to offer! I am writing to share with you an exciting update on one of the National Council’s priorities this quarter.
Following the 2023 National Convention, we left with a vacancy on the Board of Trustees. In alignment with our National Constitution (2.109), the National Council announced a call for applications on August 11th, which resulted in a strong response that reflects our Brotherhood’s unwavering dedication to service and leadership. Due to the high number and quality of applications, we extended the process by two weeks to facilitate a comprehensive review, in-depth interviews, and careful deliberations.
Throughout the selection process, our focus was on identifying the most suitable candidate to further the Board’s objectives while ensuring fairness and efficiency. We extend our sincere gratitude to all Brothers who dedicated their time and effort to apply for the Trustee position. We look forward to engaging these individuals in meaningful ways throughout the biennium.
On behalf of the National Council, I am honored and excited to share that Brother Franklin “Frankie” Johnson-Norwood, a Life Member of the Zeta Psi Chapter at Virginia State University, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees. We congratulate him wholeheartedly on this remarkable achievement and look forward to his service and leadership as a Trustee.
We invite all Brothers to join us for Frankie’s virtual swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, October 25th, at 6:30 PM CT, live-streamed on our National Facebook page. In the meantime, you can learn more about Frankie here: https://www.kkpsi.org/board-of-trustees/.
Once again, I want to express my most sincere gratitude to all who participated and contributed to this selection process. I am grateful for this Fraternity and look forward to the journey ahead with you all. Let’s continue to strive together for college and university bands!
Much Love and AEA.
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