History

National History

1904

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) is a national fraternity that began as the Nu Phi Society, meaning “non-fraternity,” at the College of Charleston, South Carolina. It started in opposition of a fraternity slate in elections. After losing the elections, the Nu Phi slate’s leaders joined together to found their own Greek letter fraternity on December 10, 1904.

The three founders were Andrew Alexander Kroeg, Jr., Simon Fogarty, Jr., and Lawrence Harry Mixson; accompanying them in their endeavor were A. Pelzer Wagener, Thomas F. Mosimann, Theodore “Teddy” Barnwell Kelly, and James Fogarty.

Pi Kappa Phi has become a nationwide brotherhood of more than 120,000 men at more than 180 college campuses across the country. For more information about the founding of Pi Kappa Phi, click here.

Local History

1929

Phi Kappa Nu Fraternity, a local fraternity, was organized at Louisiana State Normal College (now Northwestern State University) on October 17, 1929 in room 202 of the men’s dormitory. Its nine charter members were Alton Rockhold, Rivers Nesom, Dick Fluitt, Owen J. Resweber, Wilmer H. Jackson, Milton Hall, Arthur Seward, Thomas E. Crawford, and Howard H. Moorman. Hudson Johnson was the first member to pledge the fraternity.

The Phi Kappa Nu Fraternity was founded upon the ideal that “An organization which does not contribute to the general welfare of the College can not justify its existence.” According to an article in the Current Sauce, the men felt that true college spirit did not exist to the degree that it should.

The primary purpose of the fraternity was to develop and foster this spirit, in addition to bringing together non-fraternity members as well as fraternity men. Phi Kappa Nu was organized with the help of Miss Catherine Winters and Harry Turpin. Its colors were red and white and its flower was the Charles Russell Rose.

1931

On Friday, March 20, 1931 at 7:30 p.m., Phi Kappa Nu fraternity held its Primo annual banquet. Members and their guests enjoyed a banquet held in the Nakatosh Hotel, decorated in red and white, with the ceiling covered in grey moss and balloons suspended overhead and the fraternity’s emblem hanging in the background. The fraternity was honored in having one of its popular faculty members act as toastmaster. Harry “Rags” Turpin’s witty saying and remarks kept the entire group in good humor. The program featured the following individuals: an invocation was given by Coach H.L. Prather, the history of Phi Kappa Phi presented by Milton Hall, a cello performance by R.W. Winstead and accompaniment by Yvonne Gravel, along with a reading by Margaret Wren. A delicious menu of fruit cocktail, chicken a la King in patti shells, reslish, asparagus tips, creamed potatoes, English peas, hot rolls, ice cream and cake, and a demi-tasse.

1936

By 1936, the fraternity had grown to be the largest fraternal organization on the Louisiana State Normal campus, with 45 members and 32 pledges. Never losing sight of the high ideals upon which the fraternity was founded, it has reached a high position of fraternal organization.

1955

The members of this organization wanted to become part of a national fraternity. For twelve months, there were many debates about making the transition to Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

1956

The first Archon, Jack McCain, and other members helped make that transition possible. On September 21, 1956 the Beta Omicron Chapter was installed as the 63rd chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

The chartering members were: Archon Jack McCain, Jr., Charles Bice, Donald Cook, Richard Brown, Hoyt Chance, Secretary Billy Plunkett, Treasurer Maxie Almond, James Crippen, John Echols, Hugh Gilliland, Bob Howie, J.D. Montgomery, Robert Kelly, Roland Knott, Charles Varnell, Ronald Knott, Historian Micheal Murphy, John McTyre, Warden Charles Monk, Jerry Payne, Chaplain Larry Bell, Albert Tumminello, Roy Baldwin, David Ward, Cecil Neilson, Barney Seiler, and John Wheat. Members of the fraternity were also involved in campus activities, such as ROTC, Demonaires, Student Government, Track, campus security, and many others.

Substantial work resolving the transition from a local to national fraternity was performed by Executive Director James M. Wilson (South Carolina) and Traveling Counselor Andrew G. “Greg” Elam, II (Presbyterian). National Historian Frank H. Hawthorne (Auburn) was the Chartering Officer. A team from Beta Mu Chapter (McNeese State) initiated 29 students and one alumnus, James S. Mims, the Chapter Advisor. A banquet was held on Saturday, September 22nd at which time presents from chapters at Alabama, Duke, Florida State, Cornell, Wisconsin, and Michigan State were opened. Sunday the 23rd, all members attended church together. That afternoon a reception was held in the Northwestern State private dining room. The first formal meeting was held the following Monday night, although regular meetings were held each Tuesday night in the chapter’s meeting room at the south end of the basement in Caldwell Hall.

In December, the chapter held its first annual Rose Ball formal in the Student Center, under the theme ‘Snow-bound for Christmas.’ An evening of entertainment by ‘Sleepy Spears and the Combo’ ended with the presentation of the fraternity sweetheart. A tie vote resulted in the naming of two Rose Queens, Peggy (Kerr) Plunkett and Clois (Warner) Witt, who were presented with bouquets of red roses at the dance.

On December 5, Pi Kappa Phi swept the Northwestern intramural swim meet, winning both relays and four of six individual events to defeat rival Sigma Tau Gamma.

1957

The Beta Omicron Chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter,’ ranked 8th out of Pi Kappa Phi’s chapters, nationally in 1957. Beta Omicron Chapter sweetheart Peggy (Kerr) Plunkett was named runner-up in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity’s National Rose competition. The Beta Omicron Chapter’s newsletter, the ‘B.O. Blast’ was first published this year.

An annual tradition of Phi Kappa Nu, the spring barbecue, was continued at Gum Springs in nearby Winn Parish, with a picnic and swimming at the lake. Awards for ‘Outstanding Senior’ and ‘Outstanding Intramuralist’ were also given at the gathering.

The fraternity opened a concessions booth at the annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival and parade on the banks of Cane River downtown, selling peanuts, popcorn, cotton candy and cold drinks.

1958

In 1958, Beta Omicron Chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter’ at Supreme Chapter, ranked 10th out of Pi Kappa Phi’s chapters, nationally. Mickey Murphy and Eugene Scott represented Beta Omicron chapter for the first time at the biennial convention in Atlanta, Georgia on August 18-20.

The Beta Omicron Chapter moved into its first chapter house, which was formerly the “C Frame” dormitory on Northwestern State’s campus.

1960

In 1960, the Beta Omicron Chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter’ at Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity’s Supreme Chapter, held in Louisville, Kentucky.

Member L.C. Cathey was named Mister Northwestern State University, the highest honor a Northwestern State University student can receive.

1961

In March 1961, Northwestern State hosted a Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity district conclave, with the Beta Omicron and Beta Mu (McNeese State) chapters in attendance. Beta Omicron chapter Rose Queen Doris (Richard) Roberts was named among the 41 candidates for the Pi Kappa Phi National Rose Queen in 1961. Member Roland McKneely, Jr. was named Mister Northwestern State University.

1962

Beta Omicron chapter Rose Queen Barbara (Dean) Cameron was named a finalist for the Pi Kappa Phi National Rose Queen in 1962.

1965

In April 1965, a Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity conclave was held at Northwestern State, with representatives from the chapters at McNeese, Tulane, Northwestern State, and East Texas State. Also in attendance were Pi Kappa Phi National President Mel Metcalf and Pi Kappa Phi Assistant Executive Secretary Ted Scharfenstein, Junior.

Groundbreaking on the second Beta Omicron Chapter House was held on Greek Hill on NSU’s campus in October of that year.

1966

Beta Omicron Chapter alumnus James Montgomery served as advisor to the Alpha Alpha Chapter (Mercer) from 1966 to 1968.

1968

For the first time, the Beta Omicron Chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for a chapter. Members assisted with the installation of the Gamma Iota Chapter (LSU) in April 1968. Also that month, Northwestern State hosted a Regional Conclave for Pi Kappa Phi chapters in the region.

At the 32nd Supreme Chapter in 1968, Beta Omicron Chapter was awarded one of Pi Kappa Phi’s top scholastic awards. The Karl M. Gibbon Award is awarded to the chapter with the greatest scholarship improvement in the past academic year. Pi Kappa Phi also obtained the highest fraternity average on the Northwestern State campus.

1969

Beta Omicron chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter’ of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity in 1969.

1970

Beta Omicron chapter members served on the chartering team for Gamma Tau (University of North Texas). Also that year, the Beta Omicron chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter’ at the fraternity’s Supreme Chapter in Chicago, ranking among the top chapters of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

That Fall, the Beta Omicron Chapter was awarded the NSU President’s Cup, given to the fraternity with the highest overall grade point average.

1971

In October, the Beta Omicron Chapter was awarded the NSU President’s Cup, given to the fraternity with the highest overall grade point average. Alumnus Larry Gracie was appointed chapter advisor for the Pi Kappa Phi Colony at the University of New Orleans in December 1971. Pi Kappa Phi also was also named the IFC fraternity league intramural champion.

1972

Beta Omicron Chapter alumnus Larry Gracie was named a Regional Governor in March 1972. Also that year, the Beta Omicron chapter was named a ‘Master Chapter,’ ranking among the top chapters of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

1974

In March 1974, a Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity conclave was held at Northwestern State, with representatives from the chapters at McNeese State, Nicholls, LSU and University of New Orleans. Group seminars and a banquet were included in the day’s activities.

1975

Beta Omicron chapter members and alumni were instrumental in establishing and chartering a chapter at Delta Omicron (Nicholls) in 1975, also serving on the chartering team. Alumnus Dwight Boudreaux was appointed chapter advisor at Delta Omicron (Nicholls State) in 1975.

1976

Beta Omicron Chapter alumnus Andy Bachman was named a Regional Governor in the Spring of 1976.

1979

In 1979, the Beta Omicron Chapter was awarded the NSU President’s Cup, given to the fraternity with the highest overall grade point average.

1981

The Beta Omicron Chapter disbanded in 1981 and was dormant for 18 years.

1993

Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Walter Ledet was named to NSU’s Long Purple Line, the institution’s hall of distinction, in 1993. Ledet was the school’s first All-American as a linebacker while earning degrees in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. During his three seasons, he led the Demons to two conference championships and also lettered in track. Ledet was Head Track Coach at Northwestern State for 12 years, winning five conference championships. The school’s track complex now bears his name. He was also an assistant football coach and later served as University Registrar.

1994

Beta Omicron chapter alumnus David D. Morgan, Sr. was named to NSU’s Long Purple Line in 1994. Morgan used his experiences at Northwestern to propel himself to a successful career as an insurance executive. Morgan learned the importance of communicating at Northwestern and built a company with more than $100 million in assets in just over a decade. He has also been a generous supporter of Northwestern.

1995

In 1995, Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Karl Moore was also named to NSU’s Long Purple Line. Moore rose through the ranks to become one of the top officials at International Paper. Moore was International Paper’s Staff Vice-President and Chief Information Officer responsible for company resources around the world. In addition, he has been generous to the university by organizing alumni chapters and assisting in development operations.

1998

In 1998, Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Robert F. Kelley was named to NSU’s Long Purple Line. Kelley was a partner with Arthur Anderson & Co. for 24 years, overseeing managing practice services, marketing and international affairs. He was also active in local, national and international business and civic organizations in New Orleans and Chicago as well as in Europe and Asia.

1999

In early January 1999, the Northwestern State University Associate Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi was conceived by a group of four friends who rapidly developed strong bonds. Chris Baker, Todd Boddie, Wesley Breeden, and Juan Londono had developed friendship in the previous semester, and after evaluating bids received from other fraternities, they decided that the fraternities on campus did not have enough to offer the group. The men set out to start their own fraternity, jokingly selected the name “Pyros” for their group.

With the help of NSU Greek Adviser, Reatha Cox, the men began the challenging task of bringing a new fraternity to campus. A week later, they sought to invite other campus leaders to join their effort, meeting at 9:30 p.m. on the “N” at the 50-yard-line in Turpin Stadium. 22 members dwindled to 15 after a week and a half of nightly meetings. Under the guidance of Cox, they discussed the process of petitioning national fraternities, beginning with selecting a name for their interest group. Baker’s idea won — Not Yet Greek, or “NYG.”

Over the next two weeks, 32 national fraternities contacted the group indicating interest in colonization at NSU. After reviewing this information, the list was narrowed to four fraternities, before Pi Kappa Phi and Delta Chi were selected. They waited for replies from both fraternities until Pi Kappa Phi leadership consultant Larry Keller (Kansas State) contacted them the next day. A week later, Keller flew to Natchitoches and gave a presentation to the prospective members in the President’s Room of the Student Union.

The group decided to join the ranks of Pi Kappa Phi and took on the goal chartering the Beta Omicron Chapter once again. Keller and the four original members presented the fraternity to students across campus. 11 men chose to join their ranks, followed by another 11 in the next several weeks, bringing the membership to 26. The group needed leadership. In April, a meeting was held in Room 213 of Russell Hall to elect a slate of officers: Archon Wes Breeden, Treasurer Chris Baker, Secretary Manny Pitcher, Historian Michael Barras, and Chaplain Justin Hicks. The next week, the Beta Omicron Associate Chapter held its first official meeting, planning events and introducing NSU to their newest fraternity.

Following several summer get-togethers and the return of three zealous Pi Kapp College attendees, the chapter held its first meeting of the Fall semester in August, formalizing plans for recruitment and electing Rick Jones as the new Vice Archon. Recruitment presentations were held in the NSU Alumni Center, followed by a ski party at the Cane River home of chapter advisor George Etheredge. Bids were extended to 13 quality men, who were celebrated at an event at Papa’s Bar & Grill in downtown Natchitoches. The Fall semester proved to be a time of significant growth and development for the young chapter, including their first themed social, a “Jamaican Jam,” complete with grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts. The associate chapter’s first exchange with a sorority was “Pi Wars” with Alpha Omicron Pi, where members lined up to toss dozens of pies between the groups. Members also enjoyed a cookout with the Pom Line and a house social with Phi Mu. This was also a time of development for the chapter’s service efforts. The Pi Kapps earned second place in a campus-wide canned food drive, raised $330 for Push American through an alumni phone-a-thon, as well as an additional $670 by working a gate at the Natchitoches Christmas Festival. Members bonded through their first brotherhood event in November, a capture-the-flag game in full camouflage.

A Board of Alumni Advisors (BOAA) was recruited to assist the men in their development: Chapter Advisor George Etheredge, Financial Advisor Scott Roach, Academic Coach Julie Lesseter, Recruitment Advisor Reatha Cox, and Chartering Advisor David Chessel.

2000

With 29 newly active members, the Beta Omicron Chapter reached its goal on February 12, 2000. Receiving their charter from Pi Kappa Phi National President J. Patrick Figley (Stetson), the Beta Omicron Chapter became one of the fastest chapters ever chartered in Pi Kappa Phi. With the dedicated support of distinguished alumni, advisors, family and hard-working brothers, the dream of a new fraternity was alive once again. The re-chartering members were: Wesley Breeden, Todd Boddie, Chris Baker, Kyle Thomas, Rick Guillot, Danny Thomas, Steve Franklin, Danny Thomas, David Morgan Jr., Cory Wilson, Micheal Barras, Ryan Bienert, Justin Hicks, Mike Marston, J.P. Fitzmorris, Shawn Hornsby, Robert Deramus, Luke Hudnall, Brock Oakes, Joe McGowan, Kyle Bobbitt, Brandon Hopkins, Chad Black, Josh Green, Heath Crawford, Jonathan Grant, Todd Modgling, Justin Reynolds, Michael Johnson, and Rick Jones. Dr. Figley was the Re-chartering Officer and Lawrence Keller (Kansas State) was the Assistant Re-chartering Officer. The re-founding fathers were initiated by Eta Chi (Texas Christian) and Theta Alpha (Southern Mississippi).

In 2000, Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Joe Sampité was named to NSU’s Long Purple Line. Sampité, who served as Mayor of Natchitoches for 20 years, was the first recipient of the Louisiana Municipal Association’s President’s Award and was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame. He was noted as a tireless promoter of Natchitoches and Northwestern. Sampité was a teacher and coach prior to being elected mayor.

Alumnus Michael Allain was appointed as a Regional Governor in 2000.

On October 21, 2000, the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter was founded and a committee set out to locate and purchase a fraternity house. Incredibly, only 62 days later on December, 20th that idea became reality, when alumni purchased the current house located at 730 University Parkway.

2001

Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Ruben Tweedy was appointed as a District Counselor in 2001. At Supreme Chapter, Beta Omicron chapter alumni Michael Allain and Ruben Tweedy were awarded Pi Kappa Phi’s first-ever Regional Governor and District Counselor of the Year Awards, respectively. George Etheredge was also named Pi Kappa Phi National Fraternity’s ‘Chapter Advisor of the Year.’ The Beta Omicron chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for Beta Nu (University of Houston) in 2001.

2002

At Supreme Chapter 2002, Allain was elected to a two-year term on Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity’s National Council, serving as National Chaplain. Beta Omicron Chapter received the Fraternity’s ‘Summit Award,’ given to the top chapter in each geographic region. In August, the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter received the National Housing Corporation Award from Pi Kapp Properties, recognizing accomplishments and for exemplification as a model housing corporation. Pi Kappa Phi was named the 2001-2002 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

2003

Pi Kappa Phi was named the 2002-2003 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

2004

In 2004, alumni David Morgan, Sr. and Michael Allain were named to the Pi Kappa Phi Centennial Commission. These men pledged a gift of at least $1,000 and were charged with the planning and execution of all Centennial events surrounding the 100th anniversary of the founding of Pi Kappa Phi.

By resolution of the Supreme Chapter, Michael Allain 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.

The Beta Omicron chapter received the intramural cup after being named the 2003-2004 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Valsin A. Marmillion was named to NSU’s Long Purple Line in the Fall of 2004. Marmillion is recognized as one of the top campaign strategists in the country. Under his leadership the firm of Marmillion + Company has emerged as one of the nation’s premiere marketing and communications firms. He has been active in the effort to save coastal Louisiana.

2005

The Beta Omicron chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for Theta Kappa (Baylor) in 2005. Alumnus David D. Morgan, Sr. served Theta Kappa (Baylor) as Chapter Advisor from 2005 to 2006. Pi Kappa Phi was named the 2004-2005 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

2006

Alumnus David D. Morgan, Sr. was inducted into the Pi Kappa Phi Hall of Fame in July 2006 for his accomplishments in the field of business.

On October 27-28, 2006, more than 200 alumni, students and guests convened in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Beta Omicron chapter at Northwestern State University. The weekend was the culmination of months of planning by a small group of alumni and students and began with golf outings for alumni on Friday afternoon. Later in the afternoon, alumni joined Northwestern State University officials to dedicate a wrought-iron clock in the NSU Alumni Plaza, donated to the university in commemoration of Beta Omicron’s 50 years on campus. The alumni raised over $13,000 for the gift.

On Saturday the 28th, alumni held their housing corporation and alumni chapter meetings, before tailgating and attending the Homecoming football game. Later in the evening, a celebration banquet was hosted to recognize the special traditions of brotherhood that have existed at Beta Omicron for half a century. Keynoting the banquet was National Treasurer Mark F. Jacobs (Texas-Arlington). Calling on his experience as a Senior Vice President of GE Capital, Jacobs challenged the student leaders of Beta Omicron to deliver a Pi Kappa Phi experience that matches what others read about when they see the fraternity. Joining Jacobs at the event were Pi Kappa Phi Foundation Chairman Allen Woody (Roanoke); NSU President Dr. Randy Webb and mayor of Natchitoches, Wayne McCullen. The gathering was later awarded ‘Alumni Event of the Year’ by the National Fraternity.

Pi Kappa Phi was named the 2005-2006 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

2007

Alumnus Rodney Clements was hired in 2007 by the Fraternity’s philanthropy, Push America, serving as director of chapter services. Also in 2007, the Beta Omicron chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for Theta Pi Chapter (University of Texas- Tyler).

In June 2007, the Beta Omicron Chapter was named a ‘Champion Master Chapter,’ a distinction given only to the top chapters of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Beta Omicron also received the National Fraternity’s ‘Alumni Event of the Year’ award in recognition of the 50th Anniversary reunion.

2008

At Supreme Chapter 2008 in Denver, Colorado, alumnus and re-chartering archon Wes Breeden joined David Morgan, Sr. as members of the prestigious Nu Phi Society. This honorary group of fewer than 200 inductees was created in 1983 to recognize lifelong commitment to Pi Kappa Phi and have since adopted a supporting role to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation. Alumnus David D. Morgan, Sr. established the David D. Morgan ‘Extra Mile’ Scholarship program to recognize chapter members’ academic performance while encouraging active and sustained involvement in NSU, all while remaining active in the affairs and operation of the Beta Omicron Chapter.

Beta Omicron Chapter was recognized as a ‘Champion Master Chapter,’ a distinction given to only the top chapters of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

2009

The Beta Omicron Chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for the Theta Phi chapter (Louisiana Tech) in 2009. In February, NSU retired the baseball number of Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Billie Roy Cook with a special display on the outfield wall at Brown-Stroud Field.

2010

In 2010, Beta Omicron alumnus Nick Breaux became a Push America consultant for the philanthropy, later being promoted to director of chapter services. Alumnus Lane Luckie served the Iota Zeta Chapter (Stephen F. Austin State University) as chapter advisor from 2010 to 2012. On April 26, the Beta Omicron Chapter was awarded the NSU President’s Cup, recognizing the top Greek organization on campus in the areas of academics, service and athletics.

Pi Kappa Phi was named the 2009-2010 NSU Intramural All-Sports champion.

2011

The Beta Omicron Chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for the Iota Zeta Chapter (Stephen F. Austin) in 2011. That Summer, Beta Omicron was named a ‘Champion Master Chapter’ for 2011, a distinction given only to the top chapters of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. The chapter also received the National Fraternity’s ‘Most Improved GPA’ award. The Beta Omicron was awarded NSU’s prestigious President’s Cup for the second consecutive year.

2012

Alumnus Lane Luckie was named Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity ‘Facilitator of the Year’ at Supreme Chapter 2012 in Washington, DC. Alumnus Britt Richey was appointed chapter advisor for the Beta Mu Chapter (McNeese State) in 2012 and remained in that role until 2016.

Jake Bryan was named Mister Northwestern State University.

2013

In Summer 2013, Pi Kappa Phi named Beta Omicron ‘Alumni Chapter of the Year’ for its continued efforts to engage alumni members and provide substantial support to the undergraduate chapter. Alumnus Wes Breeden received the Fraternity’s ‘Conference Facilitator of the Year’ award for his volunteer role with Pi Kapp College.

Beta Omicron chapter alumnus Robert Crew was awarded The Nth Degree, one of the NSU’s highest honors, for going the extra mile in meritorious service to mankind. It is presented to those whose professional responsibilities and various other roles in making this a better world are carried out to the Nth Degree.

2014

In 2014, two alumni of Pi Kappa Phi at Northwestern State University are among the National Fraternity’s inaugural ‘Thirty Under 30′ honorees. Wil Adams and Lane Luckie, received the recognition, which seeks to recognize young alumni for their post-college achievements. In August, Luckie was named the national Fraternity’s 2014 ‘Volunteer of the Year’ at Supreme Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia. That year, Luckie was also appointed Chapter Advisor of the Theta Pi Chapter (University of Texas at Tyler) in 2014 and served in that role until 2017.

That Summer, the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation launched the David D. Morgan “Extra Mile” National Scholars Program, funded by a $1 million gift from the Beta Omicron chapter alumnus. Morgan sought to expand on the success of the scholarship that began at NSU, opening the opportunity to Pi Kappa Phi members across the country.

In November 2014, the Beta Omicron chapter was selected to serve on the chartering team for the Iota Phi Chapter (Loyola- New Orleans).

2015

In January 2015, the Beta Omicron Chapter received the National Fraternity’s ‘Most Improved Scholarship’ award. Alumnus Manny Augello was named to the National Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ list in June 2015. That Summer, Pi Kappa Phi again named Beta Omicron ‘Alumni Chapter of the Year’ for its continued efforts to engage alumni members and support of the undergraduate chapter.

2016

In January 2016, the Beta Omicron Chapter received the National Fraternity’s ‘Outstanding Branding & Communications’ award and ‘Excellence in Advising’ award for the alumni chapter’s dedication to meaningful mentoring opportunities with students members.

Alumnus Zack Cockerham was hired by Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, serving as a leadership consultant. In June, alumnus Shayne Creppel was named to the National Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ list.

On the 60th anniversary of the Beta Omicron Chapter’s chartering, Walter Ledet became the chapter’s 600th initiate. Ledet, who in the 1930s served as president of the chapter’s predecessor, Phi Kappa Nu, had expressed a desire to become an initiate of Pi Kappa Phi. Though he passed away in 2012, the fraternity’s National Council approved his posthumous initiation in 2016.

2017

Beta Omicron Chapter member Thomas Marlbrough received the the Pi Kapp Scholars Award, the National Fraternity’s oldest and most prestigious scholarship. In July, alumnus Nick Breaux was named to the National Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ list. That Summer, Marlbrough and Dedrick Lewis were named to the Ad Astra Society, recognizing the Fraternity’s top student leaders for their achievement and impact within Pi Kappa Phi, on their campus, and in their community. The inaugural class represents one percent of Pi Kappa Phi’s student membership.

The Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter received the fraternity’s Excellence in Engagement award, given to those who regularly exceed or excel beyond the expectations of a group of volunteers. Beyond the fundamentals of alumni engagement, these alumni chapters provide both an active, enriching experience on their alumni as well as support to their student chapter and/or their community.

In October, Zack Cockerham was promoted to Pi Kappa Phi’s Director of Standards and Accountability.

Thomas Marlbrough was named to Pi Kappa Phi’s 2017-2018 Council of Archons, a student advisory board to the National Council and serves as a liaison between undergraduate chapters and the national fraternity.

Marlbrough was also named the student representative on the Ability Experience’s governing board of directors.

2018

In 2018, Beta Omicron Chapter alumnus Wes Breeden was named Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity’s ‘Outstanding Volunteer of the Year’ for going above and beyond the call of duty in his role as a volunteer, and has displayed a lifelong commitment to the fraternity and excellence as a volunteer for Pi Kappa Phi.

In June 2018, alumnus Mark Springer was named to the National Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ list. Alumni Dedrick Lewis and Thomas Marlbrough were hired by Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, serving as a leadership consultants. Also that Summer, Noah Baudoin was named to the Ad Astra Society, recognizing the top one-percent of the Fraternity’s student members nationwide.

At Supreme Chapter 56 in Chicago, the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter received the fraternity’s Excellence in Engagement award, given to those who regularly exceed or excel beyond the expectations of a group of volunteers. David Morgan, Junior was inducted into the fraternity’s Nu Phi Society. 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.

Alumnus Lane Luckie was elected president of the Northwestern State University Alumni Association in October 2018.

2019

In June 2019, Char’Tarian Wilson and Colton Campbell were named to the Ad Astra Society, recognizing the top one-percent of the Fraternity’s student members nationwide.

In September, Wilson was elected Mister Northwestern State University.

Alumnus Chris Alley was named to the National Fraternity’s ‘Thirty Under 30’ list.

Nicholas Olivares was named to Pi Kappa Phi’s 2019-2020 Council of Archons, a student advisory board to the National Council and serves as a liaison between undergraduate chapters and the national fraternity.

2020

In January 2020, the Beta Omicron Chapter received the National Fraternity’s ‘Outstanding Branding & Communications’ award.

Also that month, construction began on the fourth Beta Omicron Chapter House, a $1.1 million dollar structure on NSU’s Organization Row along scenic Chaplain’s Lake.

In March 2020, the global coronavirus pandemic forced NSU to suspend in-person instruction for health and safety reasons. The Beta Omicron Chapter continued operations virtually, holding regular meetings via video conferencing.

In July, Beta Omicron Chapter students and alumni participated in the first-ever virtual Supreme Chapter, which had been scheduled to take place in-person in Baltimore.

The weekend of August 1, Beta Omicron Chapter members and alumni began moving furniture into the newly-completed chapter house located on NSU’s Organization Row.

2021

In February 2021, alumnus Lane Luckie was named Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity ‘Pi Kapp College Facilitator of the Year.’

In July, the Beta Omicron Alumni Chapter was named Pi Kappa Phi’s national Housing Corporation of the Year. The organization was also named a Champion Master Alumni Chapter.

At NSU Homecoming in October, the Beta Omicron Chapter held a formal dedication ceremony for the new chapter house, after the event had been postponed due to the pandemic.

2022

A dozen members of the Beta Omicron Chapter were recognized in April 2022 by Northwestern State University as part of its Greek Life Centennial celebration. Through its 100 for 100 program, NSU recognized 100 distinguished individuals for their notable contributions to fraternity and sorority life at the university over the last century. The first 100 inductees will form the first class for the future Northwestern State University Greek Life Hall of Fame. Pi Kappa Phi’s inductees included: Wes Breeden, Robert Broadwell, Robert Crew, John Levy Frederick, Doug Ireland, Walter Ledet, Lane Luckie, Valsin Marmillion, Jack McCain Jr., David D. Morgan, Michael E. “Mickey” Murphy, Hoyt J. Reed, and Joe Sampite.

In August, Doug Ireland retired as Beta Omicron Chapter Advisor, having volunteered the last 15 years overseeing the student chapter officers and serving as a critical liaison to the alumni chapter. Ireland’s service in this role is the longest tenure in the chapter’s history.

In October, Jonatan Jimenez was named Mister Northwestern State University, the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an NSU student. He becomes the fifth Pi Kapp to receive the honor.


Beta Omicron Chapter Archons

Learn about the leaders who have shaped our legacy of lifelong brotherhood.

Beta Omicron Chapter Advisors

Learn about the dedicated volunteers who have guided our chapter.

Beta Omicron Rose Queens

Learn about the special women close to the heart of Beta Omicron Chapter.