Several Northwestern State University students and alumni played an active role in deciding the future direction of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, while celebrating its accomplishments at the 56th Supreme Chapter.

July 26-29, 2018, Beta Omicron Chapter archon David Johnson, Warden Jacob Guidry and member Tyler Vienne, along with alumni Wes Breeden; David Morgan, Jr.; Lane Luckie, Mark Springer, Zack Cockerham, Thomas Marlbrough, and Dedrick Lewis gathered in Chicago, Illinois for the biennial convention.

During the five-day event, new legislation was adopted, national officers were elected, and members and alumni were recognized through resolutions and awards. It was one of the largest Supreme Chapters in history, with more than 900 attendees.

Supreme Chapter 65 kicked off Thursday with dinner cruise on along the shores Lake Michigan. Throughout the weekend participants explored Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, including world-class shopping, museums, entertainment and cuisine.

Friday evening, Morgan and Wes Breeden participated in activities for the Nu Phi Society, a special designation for members who exemplify a life-long commitment to Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, by supporting the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation. Morgan was inducted as its newest member, joining his father David Morgan, Sr. and Breeden as the only Nu Phi Society members from the Beta Omicron Chapter. Collectively, the society contributes more than $35,000 in annual unrestricted revenue to the Foundation.

Luckie participated in a panel discussion on navigating the transition from college to post-graduation life and the how the fraternity experience has impacted his professional journey, while Breeden spoke to students about leading without an official title or position. Throughout the convention, participants attended several leadership breakouts and panels on topics such as personal and professional development, alumni engagement, and the current state of fraternities and sororities on a national level.

Beta Omicron Chapter alumnus Mark Springer was recognized as a recipient of the Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ award, a list which seeks to recognize young alumni for their post-college achievements.

Marlbrough and Lewis, recently hired by the Fraternity as a leadership consultants, served on the staff alongside Cockerham, helping make the convention a smooth success.

Johnson and Guidry were assigned to the Student Experience and Ritual & Insignia committees during the Supreme Chapter legislative sessions. Alumnus Wes Breeden served as chairman of the Future Policy Committee and alumnus Lane Luckie served as assistant chairman of the Chapter Quality and Resources Committee.

By resolution of the Supreme Chapter, David Morgan, Senior was recognized with a Merit Citation for exhibiting exceptional meritorious service to the fraternity. Only one Merit Citation per 4,000 living members can be awarded.

Vienne and fellow members of the 2018 Build America team arrived during Saturday’s Service Before Self Luncheon.

Between the many committee meetings and Supreme Chapter sessions where the fraternity’s business is conducted, the 56th convention included its traditional events like the Ability Experience Challenges Two-Miler, Alumni Breakfast and the Leadership Luncheon. Also included in the programming mix were several alumni development opportunities, an associate member institute, a symposium for alumni chapters and housing corporations, as well as a chapter advisor convocation.