It helped lay the practice that DEI should be incorporated into all aspects of the district operations and structure, and not just an isolated conversation or item on a checklist. This was a strategic effort to ensure that our districts were prioritizing these conversations and initiatives. Bang Co, National Vice President for Student Affairs, has presented at least one DEI-focused workshop and follow-up panel discussions for each of our six districts.The selected members of the DEIA Task Force are:Ĭreating Positive Changes in Kappa Kappa Psi As leaders we recognize that many voices need to be in this work for it to last long past our own terms of office. The mandate for this task force is limited so that our active membership can have a voice in how we move forward, rather than the National Council simply mandating action from our perspective alone. This group will help determine the charges and selection of members of a standing committee that we will bring forth for adoption at our upcoming National Convention. DEIA Task Force and Call for a Constitutional Changeīelow are Brothers who have been selected to serve on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advocacy Task Force. That’s not in the nature of our Fraternity, but the real change we seek is a long-term project. We have all seen corporations and organizations that have put out great statements of support, only to stop that support when the camera lights dimmed or when the work required actually changing. Rather than quickly adopt changes, we have taken the time to listen to our membership, learn and investigate our history, and determine how we can make lasting change.
HAPPY FOUNDERS DAY KAPPA KAPPA PSI UPDATE
I wanted to update you on the selection of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force and steps we are taking as a Fraternity moving into our next biennium.
In both cases, this is a long process and we must do this work together, as a Brotherhood, and ensure that progress continues into the future at every level of our Fraternity. The national reckoning on the history of racism, bigotry, sexism, intolerance, and hatred in our country has been long needed and Kappa Kappa Psi has had to ask the same questions about our organization, the many times we may have failed to live up to our values, and where we go from here. We have also been looking critically across the entire Fraternity at how we are living up to our values and reflecting back on the one hundred years that preceded us. I’m especially thankful for the ability to play music with one another, to have a shared experience that connects and brings joy, love, and light to all.īrothers,The last year has presented the Fraternity with many challenges as we have all had to “pivot” to address public health concerns and keep our band programs moving forward despite all of the obstacles we face. I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve all of you as your National President. I’m thankful for the many Brothers I have met over the years, at conventions, over zoom, and from countless chapters across the country who have touched my life. I’m thankful for my home chapter at Lock Haven, for the amazing experience playing in the LHU Band, and that seven people saw something in me to offer me an invitation for membership in Kappa Kappa Psi. I hope that this sentiment continues to drive us forward as a better Kappa Kappa Psi.įinally, this is a moment of gratitude. But at the same time, we must also acknowledge that we haven’t always gotten it right, and that when we reflect on our successes, we must also reflect on the moments that we could have done better and done more. Our acknowledgement, inclusion, and acceptance of people of color, women, and the LGBTQIA community demonstrates our growth as an organization that cares about the people who serve in it. Throughout the years, we have grown and adapted as an organization.
Certainly – I would not be here as your National President. I think of how far we have come in 102 years. We celebrate the precious gift of music, and the magic it brings when we join together in harmony. We celebrate our chapters, our Brothers, our connection and the spirit of servant leadership. We celebrate our relationship and our shared mission with Tau Beta Sigma. We celebrate the opportunity to serve college bands with honor, integrity, respect, and loyalty. Our values are the same as they were when 10 bandsmen came together and created an organization in the image of their director. This is a moment to truly celebrate! For 102 years, our organization has withstood the test of time. What does it mean to celebrate Founders’ Day?
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