As Northwestern State University commemorated its 125th anniversary during the 2009 homecoming activities, Beta Omicron chapter celebrated a milestone in its history. The Fraternity marked 10 years since the chapter re-colonized at NSU. Pi Kappa Phi, originally chartered in 1956. Homecoming weekend saw reunions among college friends, generations of Demons bound by loyalty to their alma mater’s traditions, and anticipating an exceptionally bright future.
For Pi Kappa Phi, the weekend was a time when “younger alumni,” those who have graduated in the past decade, re-affirmed their commitment to a lifelong brotherhood. The chapter’s homecoming activities kicked-off Friday, October 23 with an active/alumni social at Mariner’s Restaurant. Dozens of alumni, actives, and associate members shared stories of fraternity memories, and caught up on past years. The associate members also presented their big brothers with a traditional paddle, as a token of thanks for their efforts. An all-Greek reunion followed at the Sylvan Friedman Student Union.
On Saturday, October 24, members of the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation met for the annual alumni breakfast and meeting. Members of the Alumni Chapter discussed future projects to support the undergraduates, such as future house projects, alumni activities, and strategic planning. The Board of Directors slate was elected to a second term in office.
Members of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority then hosted a memorial for Sharon Sampite. Sharon who passed away this year, was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma. Her father, former Natchitoches mayor Joe Sampite is an alumnus of Pi Kappa Phi. The two organizations raised money to support scholarships in Sharon’s name. In honor of Sharon’s devotion to NSU, 3 members of Pi Kappa Phi cycled 125 miles to mark the university’s anniversary. Sharon’s legacy and Pi Kappa Phi’s contributions were commended at the NSU 125th Anniversary Banquet at the Natchitoches Events Center. The chapter and numerous alumni were among those attending this historic occasion.
Several members were awarded scholarships as part of the David D. Morgan Extra Mile Scholarship program, created by Alumni Association President David Morgan, Senior. Checks were presented in a ceremony at the Pi Kappa Phi clock in the Alumni Plaza. The active members’ homecoming spirit were recognized after the homecoming parade. The Pi Kapp float displayed depictions of NSU throughout the years. Pi Kapp also won 1st place in Lip Sync. Tailgating activities united Pi Kapps and their families, young and old. Big screens kept the attention of die-hard sports fans, while other kept busy playing the game of washers. Former chapter advisor Justin Owen manned the barbecue pit, serving up hamburgers, hot dogs, and sausage. During the game, member Cody Bourque was introduced as a member of the 2009 Homecoming Honor Court.
Plans for next year’s homecoming schedule are already being discussed. If you have any feedback, please navigate to the Alumni page of this website and e-mail your thoughts. Dates and a detailed schedule of events will be posted late Summer 2010.