From the Desk of the National President: October 2023 Updates
I trust this message finds you in high spirits as we embrace the excitement of Bandtober! On behalf of the National Council and Leadership Team, I want to extend a huge CONGRATULATIONS on successfully navigating the first couple of months of the biennium and school year. It’s incredible to see the dedication and hard work that our chapters have already put forth, and we are excited to see all the incredible things that you will achieve this year. With that said, I am writing to share some important updates to ensure that our Active members are in the loop. Please review the following:
Update 1: National Vice President for Student Affairs
It is with regret that I announce Brother Tar-Shae` Odom’s decision to step down from his role as National Vice President for Student Affairs for personal reasons. While I am saddened by the departure of a team member, I respect and understand the difficult decision that was made. I wish him the very best in his future endeavors and trust that the rest of the Brotherhood will respect his decision as well. Rest assured that we are fully committed to ensuring the smooth transition of NVPSA duties.
A call for applications will be discussed during our Winter Council Meeting in January 2024. Until then, I will leave the position vacant so that we can focus on supporting our chapters and ensuring the success of our programs and initiatives.
Update 2: Upcoming Virtual Workshops
As announced on September 1, I am excited to share a fantastic lineup of virtual workshops for our Active members this month!
- Oct. 4: Join the Chair and Vice Chair of our National Committee of Curriculum Development for the VPM+RTW Training Workshop at 7pm CT. Register here: https://bit.ly/
2023VPMTraining2. - Oct. 11: Don’t miss the Chapter Officers Workshops presented by our National Committee of Chapter Operations Chair and Vice Chair. Register here: https://bit.ly/CHOPSTraining1.
- Oct. 23: Get ready for the Ritual Training Workshop hosted by our National Committee on Ritual Performance & Education Chair and Vice Chair. Register here: https://bit.ly/RitualWorkshop1
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Our National Committees play a crucial role in shaping the future of Kappa Kappa Psi. While committee appointments are still being finalized, we will begin with alumni members in this first phase. Active members’ appointments to join these committees will occur in our second phase (December 2023-January 2024). The intention behind this phased approach is to allow our Active members to prioritize their academics, band commitments, and home chapters/committees before dedicating more time to national committees. In the meantime, I highly encourage all our Active members to review the committee charges, which can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/
Update 4: National Constitution & RTW Manuals
I strongly encourage all members to stay informed with our updated national documents and resources. Please bookmark these for future reference.
Are you interested in serving as a Kappa Kappa Psi Chapter Field Representative (CFR) for the 2024-2026 term? Our application window will be opening soon, so please join us for our informational calls on October 15 and November 12. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/
I’d like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional work and dedication shown by our current CFRs, Jake January and Kennedy Struck. Though they have been back on the road for just a few weeks, their invaluable insights into the well-being and sentiments of our chapters, along with their insightful feedback, have been instrumental. Their contributions enable the National Council to remain well-informed and make informed decisions that benefit both our chapters and our fraternity as a whole. Please be sure to send them your love and support!
As we embark on this exciting journey together through October, I want to extend my deepest appreciation for your unwavering dedication to Kappa Kappa Psi. I’m eager to witness the remarkable contributions and achievements that await our chapters on this path. Just as every journey has its challenges and triumphs, so too shall we encounter opportunities for growth and excellence. Together, let’s navigate these experiences and elevate our fraternity to new heights, knowing that our collective efforts will shape a brighter future for Kappa Kappa Psi. AEA.
Yours in Brotherhood & Service,
A. Frank Martin Award Presented to Prof. Heidi Sarver
On August 26th, 2023, Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity presented the A. Frank Martin Award to Ms. Heidi I. Sarver, Professor of Music and Director of the Marching Band at the University of Delaware. Ms. Sarver was presented this award at the University of Delaware by Adam Cantley, a past National President of Kappa Kappa Psi, Dean of Students, and Assistant Vice President for Student Support and Advocacy at the University of Delaware. Ms. Sarver received this recognition in Delaware Stadium at the “Family and Friends” show at the end of the University of Delaware Marching Band’s band camp.
Kappa Kappa Psi presents the A. Frank Martin Award to honor individuals, whether band directors or laypeople, who have made significant contributions to the band field in their region. This award is named after A. Frank Martin, who was the first Grand National President of Kappa Kappa Psi (1919-1921), later served as the Fraternity’s National Executive Secretary and Earned the nickname of “Mr. Kappa Kappa Psi” through his dedication to the Fraternity and college bands. Through this award, Kappa Kappa Psi shows its gratitude to individuals like Ms. Sarver for their service to bands and music, as such service aligns with the Fraternity’s efforts to promote the success of college and university bands across the nation and, to honor outstanding band members and leaders through membership and recognition.
Quotes from Heidi Sarver’s Nominating Materials
From Mark Clodfelter, Interim Director of the School of Music, University of Delaware:
“Prof. Heidi Sarver consistently demonstrates excellent teaching in a variety of courses within our School of Music. Students are motivated and challenged by her curricular choices and feel empowered and inspired by her. Prof. Sarver demonstrates a sustained commitment to student-centered teaching and delivery of educational content at a high level.”
“Heidi Sarver is an exemplary part of our academic community by any measure. She inspires each of us through her unyielding standards of excellence and her warm collegiality. I believe that, because of the global reach of her position, she may well impact more students across the university than any other single faculty member at UD. I wish to extend my highest, most enthusiastic support on her behalf.”
From Dr. Lauren Reynolds, Associate Professor of Music and Director of Concert Bands at the University of Delaware:
“Professor Sarver has been at the top of her professional game for three decades . . . .”
“Her professional contributions to the band field are varied, consistent, and admirable. For over three decades, Professor Sarver has been a central figure in the success of the George N. Parks Drum Major Academy, through which she has come into contact with and had a profound positive effect on the lives of literally thousands of high school band leaders. In fact, I can think of countless students who chose to matriculate at the University of Delaware because they met and worked with Professor Sarver at DMA. She is most certainly regarded nationally as an expert in marching bands and marching band leadership, and she has authored numerous articles and co-authored a book on the subject.”
“In addition to her work with the Drum Major Academy, Professor Sarver is in her twenty-seventh year at the helm of the University of Delaware athletic band program. Her work with the marching band is nothing short of tremendous. In her first few years, she grew the program from fewer than 100 members to the approximately 300-member ensemble it is now, and each year she pushes the level of artistic achievement and creativity to new levels. The band has received countless honors, including featured performances at the Bands of America Grand National Championships and the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade, among many others. A huge percentage of students in her program came to the university for the band. This alone speaks volumes to her level of excellence. Further, she is widely sought-after as a show designer, creating dynamic productions for high school and college programs across the country.”
“In short, Heidi Sarver is a tireless leader in the field of American bands . . . .”
Heidi Sarver’s Biography
Heidi I. Sarver is a professor of music at the University of Delaware, where she has been a member of the faculty of the School of Music since 1995. Ms. Sarver is director of the 300-member Fightin’ Blue Hen Marching Band, co-conductor of the Symphonic Band, and instructor of two Marching Band Techniques courses. She also oversees the administrative operations of the Basketball Pep Bands and provides other smaller pep bands for a variety of athletic teams and events.
Ms. Sarver attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst where she received a bachelor of music education and a master of music in trumpet performance. Her teachers included George N. Parks, Walter M. Chesnut, Malcolm W. Rowell, and Seymour Rosenfeld.
Active throughout the Northeast as an adjudicator, clinician, and guest conductor, Professor Sarver is best known across the country for her work with the George N. Parks Drum Major Academy (DMA). With more than forty years at the organization, she is now the educational director and lead clinician. She also serves as a guest clinician to educate as many students as possible.
Professor Sarver is an avid show designer and has written for many universities and high schools across the country. Her background lies in the world of drum corps and the marching arts. Staying on top of the evolution of the activity is one of her passions.
Before her appointment at UD, she was a high school band director in New York and the assistant director of bands at Temple University. Ms. Sarver is a member of the Delaware Music Educators Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the College Band Directors National Association. She is an honorary member of both Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity and Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority. She is currently serving as the Delaware state chair for the National Band Association and College Band Directors National Association.
The Kappa Kappa Psi Journey: A Vision for the Road Ahead
Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi,
The honor to serve as your National President, backed by the invaluable trust that you have placed in me, is not one that I take lightly. Reflecting on the 103-year-long journey of Kappa Kappa Psi – a fraternity built on love, passion, and servant leadership – it is clear that our past illuminates our path forward. The start of a new biennium represents more than a passage of time. It signifies the continuation of our pursuit of wisdom, a journey we take together as Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi. At the 2023 National Convention, we not only celebrated our storied legacy but also carved a shared vision for our future. By reaffirming our ritualistic values, we reinforced our commitment to the principles we uphold, ensuring that our service to college and university band programs across the country is unwavering and impactful. This is the “AEA Way“. It’s our belief, our identity, and our mission. To see Kappa Kappa Psi thrive for another century, we must manifest these principles and purposes into tangible actions.
Brothers, we stand at a pivotal moment – an opportune juncture where our shared history, present opportunities, and future potential converge. As we stand at this crossroads, I invite each one of you – Active and Alumni alike – to not just look forward but also glance backward. In our history lies not only our legacy but also the blueprint for our future. But our legacy, while rich and robust, is not just a reflection of what we have achieved. It is also a testament to what awaits us on our journey ahead. We have so much to be proud of, from our contributions to the band community to our presence across the country. The true spirit of Kappa Kappa Psi, however, lies not just in what we’ve done but in what we are about to do. Our journey ahead requires a collective effort, a symphony of voices coming together to create a harmonious and impactful melody. Together, we march towards the foothills of success, undeterred by challenges, united by purpose. Let us be inspired not only by the prospects of our own growth but also by the impact we have on others. Let us embrace our role not just as spectators but as catalysts for change. By embodying the “AEA Way” – marked by an unwavering dedication to our Ritualistic vows, our new mission, and each other – we can inspire a new era of excellence. We are called not to merely embrace complacency or uphold the status quo, but to embody a similar spirit as our Founders had, leveraging the legacy of our past triumphs and cherished traditions to propel us confidently through the second century with the same fervor and momentum that ignited our journey in 1919.
This statement serves as a call to action, urging us to seize the mantle of leadership in the distinctive “AEA Way” and to create a lasting impact on college and university bands nationwide. I am both honored and excited to share with you the vision that will guide our journey forward for the next two years. As your National President, my commitment is to inspire each of you to take ownership of our collective path as a Fraternity.
The Kappa Kappa Psi Journey Unfolds
Our journey is a rich tapestry of our foundational ethos, trials, triumphs, and aspirations. It’s a dynamic dance between respecting our past and evolving for our future.
- Our Roots: Born from a desire to cultivate leadership amongst band members and music enthusiasts, Kappa Kappa Psi emerged as a beacon of excellence and service in the world of music.
- A Time of Reflection: Pausing occasionally to reminisce and reflect is as important as forging ahead. It’s these moments of introspection that ground us, ensuring our journey ahead stays true to our core.
- Seizing the Present: Our journey’s present phase calls for an embrace of opportunities, pushing boundaries, and solidifying our role as leaders and influencers in the band community.
- The Legacy We Build: It’s our responsibility to ensure that our legacy doesn’t just dwell in our past achievements but also paves the way for a future of significance.
- Towards a Bright Future: Our vision is clear – a Kappa Kappa Psi that thrives on service and continues to influence the college band movement, even as the landscape of the music community evolves.
The Biennium Plan
To ensure that this vision is realized, we’ve framed out a year-long initiative and have branded the months of the academic year as follows:
September: Month of Service – Engage and promote the virtue of service, with local community projects and seminars on altruistic growth. Chapters can get involved with this by:
- Hosting virtual panel discussions with key figures in the college band movement.
- Organizing service projects at local levels for members to engage with their community.
- Participating in workshops focusing on healthy ways of being selfless and avoiding burnout.
- We encourage our ‘quarter system’ schools to take some of these practices into October.
November: Month of Musicianship – Enhance individual musicianship, focusing on contribution’s significance in an ensemble. Chapters can get involved with this by:
- Hosting instrument-specific virtual masterclasses with professional musicians.
- Participating in webinars on the role of individual contribution in an ensemble setting.
- Organizing peer-reviewed practice sessions to foster a culture of feedback and growth.
February: Month of Leadership – Harness the Founders’ Circle program to cultivate leadership and drive a culture of continuous improvement. Chapters can get involved with this by:
- Leveraging the Founders’ Circle program and speakers for leadership training sessions.
- Hosting roundtable discussions on leadership challenges and solutions with other chapters.
- Provide personal leadership assessment tools for members to reflect upon.
April: Month of Brotherhood – Emphasize the vitality of forging meaningful connections and valuing the human essence of our Brothers. Chapters can get involved with this by:
- Attending district events, such as district conventions, with the entire chapter.
- Collaborating with other chapters to host brotherhood events to foster deeper connections.
- Hosting workshops on the importance of humanizing titles and treating each member with respect and dignity.
June: Month of Celebration – Honor our accomplishments, our graduates, and lay down a marker of our organizational evolution. Chapters can get involved with this by:
- Hosting graduation ceremonies for seniors.
- Creating announcements to introduce newly elected chapter officers.
- Hosting an awards night to recognize the outstanding contributions of members.
- Hosting reflective sessions for members to share their progress and rejuvenate.
During the intermittent months, our national committees will be actively engaged in providing a series of impactful virtual events and activities, 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 in their future endeavors. Here’s what you can expect from these enriching experiences:
- Chapter Operations: Sessions aimed at setting up chapter officers for success, covering efficient planning, effective organization, and strategic execution.
- Communications: Workshops focusing on helping chapters strengthen their marketing and story-telling strategies, enabling them to effectively communicate their impact and value.
- Curriculum: Dedicated sessions to enhance chapters’ membership education and continuing education processes through The Road to Wisdom.
- Data Assessment: A focus on understanding what Kappa Kappa Psi truly looks like and how chapters can leverage membership data to inform decision-making processes.
- DEIA: Meaningful conversations that explore the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, promoting a more inclusive fraternity, and cultivating culturally sensitive leaders.
- Expansion: Guiding members on how they can contribute to Kappa Kappa Psi’s growth and expansion efforts by sharing its impact story and value proposition with directors and students who don’t have a KKPsi chapter.
- Programs: Exploring how chapters can leverage and benefit from our national programs to enhance their member experience and overall growth as a Brother.
- Ritual Performance & Education: In-depth guidance on how chapters can deepen their understanding and performance of our Ritual, fostering a stronger connection to our foundational principles and lessons.
- Sponsor/DOB: Focusing on how chapters can build better relationships with their Sponsors and DOBs and contribute to our mission of serving college and university bands.
By intertwining these skill-building opportunities with the larger narrative of the Kappa Kappa Psi Journey, we aim to foster a profound connection between individual growth and the collective advancement of our Fraternity. Through these tailored experiences, we’re dedicated to empowering each member to not only succeed within Kappa Kappa Psi but also to excel as resilient leaders in their personal and professional lives.
Let us not forget, however, that at the heart of Kappa Kappa Psi’s essence lies a profound and unbreakable bond – a tapestry woven with threads of service, leadership, musicianship, and brotherhood. It is this affinity for service, our shared passion for band, and the genuine love we hold for one another that imparts depth and purpose to our journey, rendering it not just meaningful but vital. This love stands as our hallmark, shaping our identity and driving our pursuit of excellence. As we traverse this path together, let us recognize that nurturing this love is pivotal; it’s through the care we extend to each other that we ensure the continuity of our journey’s melody, a symphony woven with the notes of unity, compassion, and unwavering support.
Our journey ahead beckons us to march forward, unified in purpose and resolve. This biennium presents both challenges and opportunities. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that Kappa Kappa Psi thrives in the face of adversity. Our values and purposes, tested by time, have grounded us. Yet, we must not become complacent. We must adapt, evolve, and strive for even greater heights. Now, more than ever, we need to play in unison, translating the “AEA Way” into a melody that echoes for generations to come. This vision for the biennium is not merely a proclamation – it is a call to action, a rallying cry that resonates with our shared ideals. Let us embrace THE KAPPA KAPPA PSI JOURNEY with passion, celebrate our past with pride, and steer our Fraternity toward a future that stands as a testament to our dedication. Let’s compose a masterpiece that leaves a positive impact on the world of college and university bands. The time to lift our batons is now. In harmony and rhythm, let’s march toward success.
Journeying with you,
Bang T. Co (he/him)
National President of Kappa Kappa Psi (2023-2025)
Life Member – Alpha Zeta Chapter, Indiana University
president@kkpsi.org
2023 Fall Informational Mailer for Kappa Kappa Psi
Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi, Chapter Sponsors, and Directors of Bands –
I hope this message finds you well and refreshed, ready for the opportunities and experiences the new school year will bring!
As we usher in the start of the new biennium, I wanted to take a moment to share with you the immense excitement and anticipation resonating throughout our National Leadership Team. We stand at the threshold of a period filled with promise and potential, and with your dedication and enthusiasm, we are confident this will be one of our most memorable and impactful biennia yet; full of growth, collaboration, and shared experiences with one another.
As we embark on this new chapter, I urge each one of you to bring forth your ideas, energies, and enthusiasm to uplift our mission to serve college and university bands. Our collective journey is shaped by each member’s commitment to strengthening our core values through the following ways.
- MUSICIANSHIP in Kappa Kappa Psi begins with the appreciation of music as an art form through the desire for the best in artistic performances, our knowledge, skill, and artistic sensitivity. As brothers, we must support our fellow musicians through encouragement and helping weaker performers.
- LEADERSHIP is a cornerstone of Kappa Kappa Psi, and Brothers possess an agreeable and enthusiastic attitude through the lessons learned in the ritual. As Brothers we are more capable, more concerned, and more interested in the band program due to the proven dependability of the chapter.
- SERVICE is accomplished through the result of coordinated endeavors. The service component of Kappa Kappa Psi is vital to the very breadth of our organization. We exist in our current state due to the service nature of the fraternity to the college and university band programs.
- BROTHERHOOD is part of a greater educational and service activity devoted to strengthening the team and individual into the best they can be. Our brotherhood requires optimism, enthusiasm, and a cooperative spirit. Through chapter and district events, our brotherhood grows and develops each year. Since 1919, we have been a positive force on over 200 college campuses and band programs.
To ensure we kick off this school year with vigor and clarity, I am excited to share with you the 2023-2024 FALL INFORMATIONAL MAILER, which contains essential guidance and updates. It’s imperative that each member thoroughly reviews this information, as it will provide crucial insights and details that will set the tone for the biennium. Your proactive engagement, feedback, and adherence to the updates will be instrumental in ensuring a seamless and strong start to the school year.
May our biennium be marked by outstanding musicianship, authentic leadership, dedicated service, and an enduring sense of brotherhood. Here’s to new beginnings and shared successes!
With Love,
Bang T. Co (he/him)
National President of Kappa Kappa Psi (2023-2025)
Life Member – Alpha Zeta Chapter, Indiana University
president@kkpsi.org
Call for Nominations – Board of Trustees Vacancy
Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi –
We hope this message finds you well. As part of our commitment to fostering strong governance and effective leadership within our organization, we are excited to announce a call for nominations to fill a vacancy on the Board of Trustees.
Our Board of Trustees plays a vital role in shaping our organization’s vision, direction, and mission. As we strive to positively impact the lives of our members and the band community, we seek dedicated individuals who are passionate about our mission and possess the skills and expertise to drive our organization forward.
We invite all eligible members, stakeholders, and community leaders to actively participate in this nomination process. If you believe that your skills and experience align with our organization’s needs, we encourage you to submit your materials for consideration. If you know an alumnus of Kappa Kappa Psi who would be an outstanding candidate, please forward this information and encourage them to submit materials for consideration.
To be eligible for nomination, individuals must meet the following criteria as listed in the National Constitution:
- A member of the Fraternity;
- a member of the Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association;
- at least twenty-nine (29) years of age;
- shall possess outstanding business or professional ability;
- and shall be capable of representing the Corporation and Fraternity under all conditions.
Submission Process
- Complete the Nominations Form with your information and materials.
- Submit no later than 11:59 pm CT on Friday, September 1, 2023.
Required Materials
- Brief Biography
- Photograph Suitable for Print Publication (.jpg or .png)
- Letter of Intent (Word or PDF)
In your letter, please:- explain why you are seeking to join the Board of Trustees;
- outline how your skills, experiences, and qualifications would complement the Board of Trustees; and
- describe both your understanding of the role of the Board of Trustees within Kappa Kappa Psi and your vision for how your involvement on the Board of Trustees will contribute to the growth and success of our Fraternity and the college band movement.
- Résumé / Vita
- List of Three (3) References (with contact information)
Selection Process & Announcement
Once the nomination period has ended, the National Council will thoroughly review all the submitted nominations and assess each candidate’s qualifications and alignment with the organization’s mission. Shortlisted candidates will then be contacted for an interview for further evaluation.
The interview process allows the National Council to better understand the candidates, their reasoning for being interested, and their vision for the organization. During the interviews, candidates may have the opportunity to discuss their skills, experiences, and how they envision complementing the Board of Trustees’ responsibilities. After the interview process, the National Council will carefully review the list of finalists and select the candidate they believe will best complement the Board and contribute to the organization’s growth and success. The appointed candidate will be announced and welcomed to the Board of Trustees through our website, email distribution lists, and social media accounts.
Timeline
- August 11, 2023 – Call for Nominations Announcement
- September 1, 2023 – Deadline for Nominations (closes at 11:59 pm CT)
- September 2-15, 2023 – Review period
- September 16-24, 2023 – Interview Period
- September 25-30, 2023 – Follow-Up & Deliberation Period
- October 2, 2023 – Announcement of Appointment
Your active participation in this process is crucial in helping us find the right individual to join our Board and contribute to the growth and success of Kappa Kappa Psi. We look forward to receiving your nominations and building a stronger, more vibrant journey together. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at president@kkpsi.org.
Thank you and AEA,
Bang T. Co
National President
Kappa Kappa Psi
president@kkpsi.org
2023 Kappa Kappa Psi Oral History Project
Dear Brother,
Many of you may have received an email today about the Kappa Kappa Psi Oral History Project. We apologize for the concern the email may have caused, but it is a legitimate appeal for your participation.
Every Brother has a story, and Kappa Kappa Psi wants to hear yours!
We are launching a new project, the Kappa Kappa Psi Oral History Project, to collect the stories of our alumni in their own words. We will preserve these stories in a book that celebrates the impact of Kappa Kappa Psi on your life and who you are today.
Kappa Kappa Psi partnered with Publishing Concepts, Inc. (PCI) to collect your stories. PCI will contact KKPsi members via postcard and email to verify and update contact information.
Additionally, PCI will ask if members want to share a story about KKPsi. Members will also receive an offer to purchase the hard-copy book and other products, but no purchase is necessary to participate in the Oral History Project.
We hope you will participate and share your stories. A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page is available on the KKPsi website at this link: https://www.kkpsi.org/oralhistoryproject/
If you have any concerns or question, please feel free to contact us at kkytbs@kkytbs.org
Steve Nelson
National Executive Director
Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
Bang Co
National President
Kappa Kappa Psi
2023-2025 National Leadership Appointments
Brothers –
I hope the month of June is treating you well and that you are getting excited about our 2023 National Convention!
As your National President-Elect, I have spent the past two years deeply reflecting on the state of our Fraternity and the future of Kappa Kappa Psi. One of my responsibilities, as I prepare for the next biennium, is to evaluate and adjust the makeup of our appointed leadership team to ensure that we are adapting to the new conditions and challenges that our students are facing each day. In addition to “recharging” the Fraternity in a post-pandemic world, we have also made powerful promises to diversify our leadership team to best reflect our membership. I am thankful for the strong foundation and representation that National President Lee and our predecessors have established with their appointments over the years. Recognizing the privilege of this position and the impact of this decision, I am proud to share with you my appointments for the 2023-2025 Biennium. Please help me congratulate and welcome these incredible Brothers and leaders!
National Vice President for Professional Relations
Dr. William L. Lake, Jr – Alumnus of the ΚΚΨ Gamma Xi Chapter (University of Maryland)
More about Dr. Lake
Dr. William L. Lake, Jr. is the newly appointed Director of Concert Bands at the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music at George Mason University for the upcoming academic year. In this role, he will conduct the George Mason University Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band. He will also teach conducting and wind literature classes.
Before his tenure at George Mason University, Dr. William L. Lake, Jr., served as Associate Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music Education at the Crane School of Music (SUNY-Potsdam), where he was co-conductor of the Northern Symphonic Winds, principal conductor of the Crane Concert Band, and guest conductor of the Crane Wind Ensemble. In addition to these responsibilities, Dr. Lake taught undergraduate conducting, Secondary Wind Practices, Wind Literature, and the preservice Practicum in Beginning Instruments Course.
Dr. Lake earned his Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Instrumental Conducting from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro under the mentorship of Drs. John R. Locke and Kevin Geraldi. As a graduate student, he was the principal conductor of The University of North Carolina University Band and guest conductor of the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Casella Sinfonietta Chamber Ensemble, and Symphony Orchestra.
Dr. Lake is the recipient of two master’s degrees, the first from Boston University in Music Education (2011) and the second from the University of Maryland, College Park in Wind Conducting (2014) under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Votta, Jr. In May 2006, Dr. Lake received a Bachelor of Music Liberal Arts – Jazz Studies Piano Performance Degree from the University of Maryland, College Park as a student of Jon Ozment and Christopher Vadala.
As a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Lake is the co-founder of I See You: Affirming Representation in Music. In this capacity, Dr. Lake has presented over twenty seminars across the United States on inclusive practices in music education and performance. With co-founder Dr. LaToya A. Webb, Dr. Lake has been invited to present on diversity, equity, and inclusion concepts and practices at the 2021 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, the 2021 Virginia Music Educators Association Professional Development Conference, the 2022 Texas Music Educators Association Conference, the 2021 National Association for Music Education National Conference and the 2022 National Association for Music Education Music Leaders Forum.
Dr. Lake is a member of the College Band Directors National Association, Kappa Kappa Psi (Gamma Xi), National Honorary Band Fraternity, Inc., Pi Kappa Lambda, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is also honored with membership in Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Fraternity, Inc. (Beta Eta), and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.
North Central District Governor
Akilah Thomas – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Beta Kappa Chapter (Bowling Green State University)
More about Akilah
Akilah Thomas (she/her) is a Life Member of the Beta Kappa Chapter at Bowling Green State University. She was initiated in Spring 2012, selected to serve as Chapter Secretary for her Sophomore Year, and as a Junior, became the first woman in her chapter’s history to serve as the Chapter President. She went on to serve as the North Central District Vice President for Membership for the 2015-2016 school year, embracing the ideas of rediscovery, rededication, and holistic learning throughout the NCD. Post-graduation, Akilah remained involved with Kappa Kappa Psi, becoming a Curriculum Advisor, Petitioning Group advisor for two chapters, and a founding member of the North Central District Alumni Association as the Membership Director and later the Business Director.
At BGSU, Akilah majored in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance, earning her BSBA in 2016. During her time with the BGSU Band Program, Akilah was a saxophonist for the Athletic Band, Symphonic Band, and Falcon Marching Band where she served as section leader for 2 years. She also became a founding member of the Voices at BGSU Concert Choir in which she served as Soprano section leader and Vice President.
Currently, Akilah resides in her hometown of Cleveland, OH. She has established herself in the field of Human Resources and works as a Training and Occupational Development Specialist for a global manufacturer in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. Her primary aspirations are to travel the world, foster DEIA, and help others see the greatness in themselves. She has a passion for personal, professional, and spiritual growth in both herself and others and is confident that her time as the North Central District Governor will be another opportunity to serve within this mission.
Midwest District Governor
Dr. K. Anthony Walker – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Eta Phi Chapter (Syracuse University)
More about Dr. Walker
Anthony is a life member of the Eta Phi chapter at Syracuse University and was initiated in Spring 2012. As an active member, he held a variety of chapter officer roles and also served as the Northeast District President from 2014-2015. As an alumnus, he continued serving our membership as a Curriculum Advisor, Centennial Committee member, and most recently as the current Chair of the National Data & Assessment Committee. Anthony is also a proud Honorary member of both the Kappa Kappa Psi Midwest District and the Eta Alpha chapter of Tau Beta Sigma. Professionally, Anthony is a Research Audiologist at the University of Colorado School of Medicine where he investigates the effects of hearing loss on speech perception from infancy through adulthood. As a first-generation minority college student, he is committed to serving as a resource and helping facilitate a meaningful fraternal experience for all students. Anthony is excited to meet and work with the Midwest District this biennium!
Midwest District Governor
Viet Nguyen – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Eta Chapter (The Ohio State University)
More about Viet
Viet is a first-generation Vietnamese-American, born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. At The Ohio State University, he is a Life member of the Eta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi and an Honorary member of the Chi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma. Viet played the mellophone and French Horn in the marching and concert bands. Initiated in 2014, he served as a recruitment committee chair and was Chapter Vice President of Membership. Then in 2017, he was elected the North Central District Vice President for Membership. Currently living in Fargo, ND, he is a Director of Development for the North Dakota State University Foundation, where he builds enduring relationships that maximize advocacy and philanthropic support for NDSU. Some of his favorite memories in the fraternity were organizing the 2017-2018 Joint District Recruitment Video and the NCD Composition Competition. Viet is excited to serve the brothers of the Midwest District and their band communities.
Southwest District Governor
Kadeem Sabari – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Zeta Chi Chapter (University of South Carolina)
More about Kadeem
Kadeem Sabari was initiated into the Zeta Chi chapter at the University of South Carolina in Spring 2013. During his time in the chapter, he served on the executive board for two consecutive terms serving as the Social Chair and Historian. After graduation, he joined the Southeast District Alumni Association and became the chair of the organization after a year and a half. He served as the chair of the Southeast District Alumni Association from 2018-2022, planning a variety of conventions for the organization both virtually and in-person. In addition to his work with Alumni, Kadeem has served as an Advisor for two Petitioning Groups during the 2021-2023 biennium. Currently, Kadeem is finishing up his term on the Alumni Association Board of Directors as the Local Alumni Association Director.
I am also excited to share that the following individuals will be reappointed to continue their fraternal service during the 2023-2025 biennium!
Midwest District
Denali Pearce-Alt – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Delta Gamma Chapter (Missouri University of Science and Technology) & the ΚΚΨ Epsilon Psi Chapter (Missouri State University)
North Central District
Marc Renaud – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Zeta Epsilon Chapter (Michigan State University)
Michelle Banis – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Iota Lambda Chapter (University of Mount Union)
Northeast District
Marci Jones – Honorary of the ΚΚΨ Northeast District
Matthew Parent – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Epsilon Nu Chapter (University of Massachusetts)
Rassii Elliott – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Eta Omega Chapter (Howard University)
Southeast District
Arupa Gopal – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Kappa Tau (University of South Florida)
Justyn Paul Davis – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Zeta Chi Chapter (University of South Carolina)
Kalem Graham – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Zeta Psi (Virginia State University)
Southwest District
Andy Melvin – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Delta Chapter (University of Oklahoma)
Lizzi Pineiro – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Gamma Phi Chapter (Stephen F. Austin State University)
Western District
Brian Parker – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Iota Pi Chapter (California Polytechnic State University)
Karissa Longo – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Zeta Epsilon Chapter (Michigan State University)
Lance Coochyouma – Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Gamma Kappa Chapter (Northern Arizona University) & the ΚΚΨ Omega Chapter (The University of Arizona)
Brothers, please join me in congratulating these incredible Brothers as part of our National Leadership Team for the 2023-2025 biennium! I look forward to continuing our journey together with you all. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer next biennium, please take a few minutes to complete this form: http://bit.ly/KKPsi23-25VolunteerForm.
AEA,
Bang T. Co
National Vice President for Membership & Expansion | National President-Elect (2023-2025)
Life Member of the ΚΚΨ Alpha Zeta Chapter, Indiana University
Spring 2023 – Announcement of Chapter Installations
Brothers –
On behalf of the National Council, I am proud to announce the successful re-chartering of the Kappa chapter at Colorado State University and the installations of the Xi Epsilon chapter at Florida Memorial University and the Xi Zeta chapter at Widener University! The process started in late February of this semester with a petitioning group of twenty-eight band members for CSU, eleven band members for FMU, and twenty band members for WU. The Colorado State group was led by Tucker Booth with the support of their Director of Bands, Dr. Rebecca Phillips, and Sponsor, Dr. Jayme Taylor. Their installation took place on CSU’s campus on Sunday, April 23rd, 2023. The Florida Memorial group was led by Rashaud Marcelin with the support of their Director of Bands and Sponsor, Dr. Richard Beckford. Their installation took place on FMU’s campus on Thursday, April 13th, 2023. The Widener group was led by John Samohod with the support of their Director of Bands, Dr. Iain Moyer, and Sponsor, Kim Sulahian. Their installation took place on WU’s campus on Monday, April 17th, 2023.
This process would not have been possible without the help of our dedicated Advising Teams. The teams advising each group were led by MWD Governor, Dr. Nicholas Rorrer (CSU); SED Governor, Arupa Gopal-Campbell (FMU); and National Database & Membership System Coordinator, Aaron Moore (WU). Each Advising Team consisted of several alumni members, 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.
Colorado State Advising Team
- Dr. Nicholas Rorrer (Life Member, Eta Beta | MWD Governor) – Lead Advisor
- Justin Chesak (Life Member, Gamma Iota | Past CFR, 2016-2018)
- Makenzie Chesak (Life Member, Alpha | Expansion Committee Vice-Chair)
- Christian Heck (Alumni Member, Iota Kappa | Graduate Student at CSU)
- Joey Sacino (Life Member, Iota Kappa | DEIA Committee Member)
Florida Memorial Advising Team
- Arupa Gopal-Campbell (Life Member, Kappa Tau | SED Governor) – Lead Advisor
- Tar-Shae` Odom (Active Member, Zeta Eta | National VP for Student Affairs)
- Kadeem Sabari (Life Member, Zeta Chi | ΚΚΨAA BOD Member)
- Joe Figliolo (Alumni Member, Mu Eta | Expansion Committee Member)
- Alyssia Price (Active Member, Gamma Nu | Curriculum Development Committee Member)
Widener University Advising Team
- Aaron Moore (Life Member, Alpha Rho | National Database & Membership System Coordinator) – Lead Advisor
- Marci Jones (NED Honorary Member | NED Governor)
- Ali Beidler (Life Member, Eta Rho & Data | Assessment Committee Member)
- Ayleen Sanchez (Life Member, Alpha Chi | Curriculum Development Committee Member)
- Michael “Ike” Ireland (Life Member, Nu Omicron | Expansion Committee Member)
Several chapters offered to help out by providing supplies and members for the Ritual and installation. We would like to extend our appreciation to the following chapters for their assistance.
- Xi chapter (Colorado School of Mines) for lending their Ritual gear for the Colorado State University chapter installation.
- Kappa Tau chapter (University of South Florida) for lending their Ritual gear for the Florida Memorial University chapter installation.
- Eta Rho chapter (West Chester University) for providing a Ritual team and lending their Ritual gear for the Widener University chapter installation.
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 Kappa, Xi Epsilon, and Xi Zeta chapters. It was extremely heartwarming to see everyone come together to welcome our new Brothers. We are excited to transition to the post-installation process with each of these chapters and for the opportunity to have these groups represented at the upcoming National Convention. 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 bangco@kkpsi.org.
With Love,
B
Spring 2023 Petitioning Group Announcement
Brothers –
On behalf of the National Council of Kappa Kappa Psi, I am honored to announce the acceptance of three petitioning groups and their advising teams for the Spring 2023 semester. Please see below for more information about each group.
The Colorado State University band program is under the leadership of their Director of Bands, Dr. Rebecca Phillips, and Associate Director of Bands, Dr. Jayme Taylor. The band program offers a variety of ensembles for students and community members to participate in including their Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, CSU Marching Band, Presidential Pep Band, “Rampage” Basketball Band, and many more. To learn more about the Colorado State University band program, please visit their website.
The Colorado State University group will be a rechartering group in the Midwest District. The group will be instructed by an Advisor Team, which consists of the following members:
- Dr. Nicholas Rorrer (Life Member, Eta Beta & MWD Governor) – Lead Advisor
- Justin Chesak (Life Member, Gamma Iota & Past CFR, 2016-2018)
- Makenzie Chesak (Life Member, Alpha & Expansion Committee Vice-Chair)
- Christian Heck (Alumni Member, Iota Kappa & Graduate Student at CSU)
- Joey Sacino (Life Member, Iota Kappa & DEIA Committee Member)
The Florida Memorial University band program is under the leadership of their Director of Bands, Dr. Richard Beckford. As one of the newest HBCU bands in the country, “The ROAR” Marching Band strives to bring innovation to the band world and empowers students to go into the world as leaders. To learn more about the Florida Memorial University band program, please visit their website.
The Florida Memorial University group will be a new chartering group in the Southeast District. The group will be instructed by an Advisor Team, which consists of the following members:
- Arupa Gopal-Campbell (Life Member, Kappa Tau & SED Governor) – Lead Advisor
- Tar-Shae` Odom (Active Member, Zeta Eta & National VP for Student Affairs)
- Kadeem Sabari (Life Member, Zeta Chi & ΚΚΨ AABOD Member)
- Joe Figliolo (Alumni Member, Mu Eta & Expansion Committee Member)
- Alyssia Price (Active Member, Gamma Nu & Curriculum Development Committee Member)
The Widener University band program is under the leadership of their Director of Athletic Bands, Dr. Iain Moyer. The band program offers a variety of ensembles for students and community members to participate in including their Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and the Widener Band & Color Guard. To learn more about the Widener University band program, please visit their website.
The Widener University group will be a new chartering group in the Northeast District. The group will be instructed by an Advisor Team, which consists of the following members:
- Aaron Moore (Life Member, Alpha Rho & National Database & Membership System Coordinator) – Lead Advisor
- Marci Jones (Honorary Member, NED & NED Governor)
- Ali Beidler (Life Member, Eta Rho & Data & Assessment Committee Member)
- Ayleen Sanchez (Life Member, Alpha Chi & Curriculum Development Committee Member)
- Michael “Ike” Ireland (Life Member, Nu Omicron & Expansion Committee Member)
Chapter Installation Announcement – Fall 2022
On behalf of the National Council, I am proud to announce the successful chartering and installation of the Xi Delta chapter at Stony Brook University! The process started earlier this semester with a petitioning group of nineteen band members, which was led by Marco Melendez and their Director of Bands, Dr. Justin Stolarik. The initiation and installation ceremonies took place at their institution on Sunday, December 4th, 2022.
This process would not have been possible without the help of our dedicated Advising Team, which was led by NED Governor, Rassii Elliott. The Advising Team consisted of several NED alumni members, 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.
Stony Brook Advising Team
- Michael Napolitano (Life Member, Kappa Upsilon & Sponsor/DOB Committee Co-Chair)
- Laura Borzellieri (Life Member, Lambda Delta & Curriculum Committee Member)
- Evan Choy (Life Member, Kappa Gamma & Chapter Ops Committee Member)
- Mia Harvey (Alumna, Nu Zeta & Communications Committee Member)
Lastly, I would like to give thanks to everyone else who assisted with this process: thank you to the Eta Rho chapter at West Chester University for providing the Ritual gear; thank you to Michael Coppola (Life Member, Kappa Upsilon) and Collin Alekson (Alumnus, Nu Zeta) for their assistance; and thank you to our HQ staff for all of their support in making this possible. It was extremely heartwarming to see everyone come together to welcome our new Brothers. We are excited to transition to the post-installation process with Xi Delta and for the opportunity to have these students represented at the upcoming NED and National Conventions. 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 bangco@kkpsi.org.
—
Bang T. Co (He/Him/His/他)
National Vice President for Membership & Expansion
2021-2023 Kappa Kappa Psi National Council
Life Member | Alpha Zeta Chapter at Indiana University