From the Desk of the National President: April 2024 Updates

Brothers – 

As we transition from the excitement of “March Madness” to our April Month of Brotherhood, I hope we find ourselves immersed in the spirit of unity and fellowship that defines our organization. This month, we not only celebrate the bonds that unite us but also reflect on the importance of cultivating and strengthening our Brotherhood.

Brotherhood is not just a concept; it’s a living, breathing testament to the dedication and passion of our members. From past contributions to present initiatives, we continue to build upon a legacy of excellence and service. We honor this legacy by actively engaging with the updates and programming offered this month. Your participation, enthusiasm, and dedication are crucial as we navigate the path forward. Together, let’s embrace the opportunities before us, strengthen our bonds of brotherhood, and chart a course toward an even brighter future for Kappa Kappa Psi. 

Please take a moment to carefully review the updates and highlights in this newsletter. Your engagement and support are key to our continued success as a fraternity. Together, let’s make this April a month to remember!

APRIL UPDATES

Update #1: Kicking Off our Month of Brotherhood

This April, we’re diving deep into what Brotherhood means in Kappa Kappa Psi. Brotherhood isn’t just a word; it’s a concept that evolves as we grow and learn together. The essence of Brotherhood transcends mere words as it embodies a profound connection built on shared values, experiences, and aspirations. This Month of Brotherhood presents an opportunity for each member to reflect and redefine what Brotherhood means within the context of our fraternity. Here are some guiding questions to kickstart your reflections:

  1. What is the definition of Brotherhood? Is it simple or difficult to develop a concrete definition? Why?
  2. Discuss how your chapter demonstrates Brotherhood. Can your chapter improve? How?
  3. How does the Fifth purpose connect to the core value of Brotherhood?
  4. What or how do you promote belonging in your chapter?

Update #2: Announcing our Next Chapter Field Representatives

We’re thrilled to introduce Mason Thomas from the Lambda Chapter at the University of Arkansas and Ari Wright from the Nu Chapter at the University of Michigan as our newest CFRs. They’ll be officially joining us on June 3, 2024, with Jake and Kennedy assisting in their transition throughout May. Look out for updates on their Office Hours over the summer and join us in welcoming Mason and Ari to our National Leadership Team! To get to know a little bit more about our newest members, please see their bios below:

Mason Thomas: Mason is a 2022 graduate of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, AR. He graduated with a B.M. in Music Education. Mason was a member of the Razorback Marching Band, Hogwild Band, and UA Concert Bands. He was initiated into the Lambda Chapter in the Spring of 2019. As an active member, Mason served as Corresponding Secretary and Chapter President. He has also served as the SWD Secretary/Treasurer and as a member of the National Ritual Performance and Education Committee.

Ari Wright: Hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Ari is a proud alumnus of the University of Michigan and the Nu Chapter, having graduated in December 2022 with a double major in Communications & Film. In the Michigan Marching and Hockey bands, they played trumpet from 2018 to 2023. After being inducted into the Nu Chapter in Spring 2019, they served as Vice President of Recruitment from 2020-2022. Ari joins us with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind, and looks forward to fostering brotherhood over the next biennium!

Update #3: Call for Applications for National Vice President for Student Affairs

We warmly invite all interested and qualified Brothers to submit their materials for consideration. The qualifications and responsibilities of the National Vice President for Student Affairs are described in Section 3.208, Section 3.401, and Section 3.711 of the Kappa Kappa Psi National Constitution. The deadline for the submission of all application materials is 11:59 pm CST on April 30, 2024

National Vice President for Student Affairs Application Form

Additionally, the National Council invites all Active Brothers to share your thoughts and feedback on what qualities and attributes you would like to see in the next National Vice President for Student Affairs (NVPSA). Your input will play a crucial role in informing our decision-making process.

Input & Feedback Form for Ideal NVPSA Candidate

Update #4: Updates on District Conventions

Congratulations to the Northeast and Southeast Districts on their successful conventions! With record attendance since the pandemic, these events showcased our members’ dedication and enthusiasm. The newly elected leaders in the NED and SED are poised to lead their districts with passion and vision. As we move forward, we have exciting double-convention weekends ahead, providing opportunities for networking, learning, and celebrating our fraternity’s spirit. Register now for upcoming conventions and be part of this dynamic experience.

Update #5: Reminder on Chapter Reports & Payments

As the school year draws to a close, please ensure timely submission of all required chapter reports and payments. These reports are crucial for evaluating chapters’ achievements and eligibility for the William Scroggs Founders’ Trophy at the 2025 National Convention. If you have any questions or need support, please reach out to our HQ staff at kkytbs@kkytbs.org. You can also submit a Chapter Assistance Request.

  • Membership Candidate Registration (MCR) Form: Due within 7 days following First Degree and before you can start the IRF.
  • Initiate Registration Form (IRF): Due within 30 days following Third Degree. After 30 days, a late fee will apply!  Initiation fees should be collected prior to performing Third Degree.
  • Officer & Chapter Update Form: Due as soon as after elections are finalized
  • Graduating Senior Report (GSR): Due within 30 days of graduation
  • Spring Activity Report (SAR): Due by June 1

As the school year draws to a close, life can become busier and more demanding. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to take a step back from Kappa Kappa Psi when needed, and always remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to your Brothers and loved ones for support if you’re feeling overwhelmed. While we value Kappa Kappa Psi as a significant part of your priorities, we understand that it may not always be the top priority, and that’s perfectly fine. Your well-being matters above all else. As we navigate these next few months, let’s also embrace the Path of Connection, nurturing meaningful relationships and collaborations that enrich our collective experience. Let’s continue strengthening the bonds of our Brotherhood, a cornerstone of The Kappa Kappa Psi Journey.

 

 

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Bang T. Co (He/Him/His/他)
National President & Ex-Officio Board of Trustees Member,
Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity, Inc.

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Our Mission: Kappa Kappa Psi is a diverse fraternity dedicated to advancing college and university bands for the benefit of its members and society through: Meaningful musical experiences and enrichment, Transformational leadership development, Purposeful service to bands and support to band members, Lifelong fellowship and community.

 

 

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Posted in Fraternity News, Official Statements.