 Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is excited to announce a new partnership with MemberDeals, a leading provider of corporate benefits programs, to offer its members access to exclusive discounts and benefits on a wide range of products and experiences.
This cost-free program will provide Phi Mu Delta members with significant savings on theme park tickets, ski lift passes, hotel bookings, Broadway shows, rental cars, and much more. Members can look forward to exclusive discounts at Disney World, TopGolf, and numerous retailers, including florists and restaurants. "We're thrilled to partner with MemberDeals to bring these valuable benefits to our brothers," said Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta. "This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing lifelong value to our members, extending the benefits of brotherhood well beyond their college years." The MemberDeals program, part of EBG's robust network serving over 50 million employees annually, offers Phi Mu Delta members access to some of the world's greatest entertainment and travel brands. New offers and experiences will be added weekly, ensuring fresh opportunities for savings throughout the year. To take advantage of these exclusive benefits, members are encouraged to update their contact information with the fraternity. The password to access the MemberDeals platform will be shared in the September edition of the Lion Line, Phi Mu Delta's monthly newsletter. "This partnership not only provides our members with fantastic savings but also strengthens our brotherhood by offering shared experiences and opportunities," added Waltemeyer. "We're excited to see how our members will use these benefits to create lasting memories with their families and fellow brothers." Key features of the MemberDeals program include:
Phi Mu Delta members can look forward to accessing these benefits starting in September. The fraternity encourages all members to ensure their contact information is up to date to receive the Lion Line newsletter and gain access to this exciting new program.  Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is pleased to announce the approval of four new members to its National Council during the 61st Conclave held in Providence, Rhode Island. The slate, presented by the Nomination Committee, was unanimously passed, bringing fresh perspectives and diverse experiences to the fraternity's leadership.
The incoming members of the National Council are:
The Nomination Committee, consisting of Teague Emery (Mu Alpha '13), Jacob Dubois (Nu Gamma '16), Paul Kittle (Mu Pi '91), and Will Foran (Nu Theta '01), employed a rigorous selection process. Teague Emery, Nominating Chair, emphasized the committee's thorough approach, "We considered each candidate’s experience, motivation, and transferable skills while balancing the immediate needs of the National Council. There was no requirement to have historical fraternity volunteer experience as we sought candidates with a diverse set of experiences." The committee developed a framework to evaluate candidates, calling it the Phi Mu Delta Leadership Behaviors:
The new council members bring a wealth of experience from various fields: Thomas Stephen, a Certified Financial Planner, brings his expertise in finance and his experience as a chapter advisor to the council. He expressed his enthusiasm for mentoring young members and creating sustainable practices for the fraternity. Michael Doran, with a background in data science and higher education, aims to focus on chapter membership growth and organizational expansion. He stated, "My passion within my career and within the organization has always been the growth of our chapter membership and growth of our organization on the whole." Spencer McBreairty, working in Student Affairs, offers insights into current trends in higher education and student development. He emphasized the impact Phi Mu Delta had on his college experience and his desire to give back to the organization. Alexander Fries, with his experience in public affairs and communications, seeks to be a strategic partner in articulating the benefits of the Phi Mu Delta community. He aims "to facilitate sustainable growth across Phi Mu Delta in support of the alumni and undergraduate experience." The selection of these new council members reflects Phi Mu Delta's commitment to evolving with the needs of its members while staying true to its core values. The fraternity looks forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas these new leaders will bring to the National Council.  The Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is proud to celebrate that Zachary Desjardins, M.S., MPA, has been appointed as the Chair of the NACADA First Generation College Student Advising Community Steering Committee. This prestigious appointment, effective from October 2024 through October 2026, recognizes Desjardins' exceptional dedication to supporting first-generation college students and the advisors who work with them.
Desjardins, a University Academic Advisor and First Year Experience Part-Time Adjunct Instructor at the University at Albany, brings a wealth of experience and a personal understanding of the challenges faced by first-generation college students. As a first-generation college graduate himself, Desjardins has dedicated his career to creating more equitable and accessible higher education opportunities. During his undergraduate years at SUNY Plattsburgh, Desjardins joined Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, where he honed his leadership skills and eventually served as Chapter President. The NACADA First Generation College Student Advising Community is committed to supporting academic advisors who work with first-generation college students. Under Desjardins' leadership, the steering committee aims to share best practices, address challenges, and advocate for the needs of these students through their advisors. Reflecting on the task ahead, Desjardins stated, "As we continue this journey, I am constantly reminded of the profound difference we can make in the lives of first-generation college students through our support of their advisors. The road ahead is filled with opportunities to create positive change, and I am excited to tackle the challenges and celebrate the successes that lie ahead." Desjardins' appointment to this national leadership role reflects his ongoing commitment to higher education reform and student success. His background includes experience with TRIO Programs, and he has previously served on UAlbany's First-Generation College Student Success Task Force. Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, commented on Desjardins' appointment: "Zachary's dedication to supporting first-generation college students exemplifies the values of leadership and service that Phi Mu Delta instills in its members. His appointment as Chair of this important NACADA committee is a testament to his commitment to making higher education more accessible and equitable. We are incredibly proud to have him as an alumnus of Phi Mu Delta and know that he will make a significant impact in this new role."   Phi Mu Delta Fraternity proudly announces its participation in the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) Annual Meeting of Members and the preceding CSO-Board Chair Symposium. The events, held in Indianapolis on August 18-19, 2024, brought together leaders from across the fraternal world to discuss crucial issues and best practices in fraternity governance and leadership.
Representing Phi Mu Delta were Executive Director Sam Waltemeyer and National President Joe Thompson, who arrived early to attend the CSO-Board Chair Symposium on Sunday, August 18. This executive leadership and governance-focused symposium, jointly hosted by the Fraternity Executives Association (FEA) and Foundation for Fraternal Excellence (FFE), provided a unique opportunity for fraternity leaders to engage in collaborative discussions and learn from industry experts. The symposium, facilitated by Mark Engle and Debbie Trueblood from the Association Management Center (AMC), focused on best practices for staff/board partnerships, entity partnerships, and governance. Participants gained insights into challenges facing contemporary association leaders and learned strategies for fostering effective governance through board organization, structure, and operations. "The symposium provided invaluable insights into effective leadership and governance practices," said Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta. "The opportunity to collaborate with peers from other fraternities has equipped us with new strategies to enhance our organization's effectiveness and impact." On Monday, August 19, Sam Waltemeyer represented Phi Mu Delta at the NIC Annual Meeting of Members. The meeting covered crucial topics including changes to the organization's bylaws, updates on government relations regarding hazing laws, and discussions on students' First Amendment rights. A highlight of the meeting was a keynote address by Dr. Jean M. Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University, on "iGen: Guiding the smartphone generation and understanding the challenges of high school and college men today." Dr. Twenge's presentation offered valuable insights into the unique characteristics and challenges faced by Generation Z, the first generation to spend their adolescence with smartphones. "Dr. Twenge's research provides crucial insights into the evolving needs of our undergraduate members," noted Sam Waltemeyer. "Understanding these generational shifts is vital as we continue to adapt our programs and support systems to best serve our brothers." Phi Mu Delta's participation in these events underscores the fraternity's commitment to staying at the forefront of interfraternal relations and adapting to the changing landscape of higher education and student life. A very special thank you to Cade Stukus, of the Mu Upsilon Chapter for being the Conclave's official photographer.  In the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, over 100 undergraduate members, alumni, and guests of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity gathered for the 61st Conclave, a four-day event that would prove to be a transformative experience for all in attendance. From July 31 to August 3, 2024, brothers from across the nation came together to celebrate their shared bonds, reflect on their rich history, and chart a course for the fraternity's future
Following these enlightening sessions, undergraduate delegates broke into small groups to discuss their plans for Fall recruitment. This collaborative environment allowed for the exchange of ideas and strategies, with volunteers and other attendees offering valuable feedback. The morning concluded with Mike Doran unveiling a project he had been working on – a set of Phi Mu Delta recruitment tools specifically designed for chapter use, demonstrating the national organization's commitment to supporting local chapter growth. Exploring Providence The afternoon brought a change of pace as attendees embarked on a photo scavenger hunt through downtown Providence. This activity not only allowed brothers to explore the city but also fostered teamwork and creativity. The resulting photos were a mix of hilarity and ingenuity, with the winning team members each receiving an official Phi Mu Delta flag as a prize. After the scavenger hunt, attendees were given free time to explore Providence further. Many took advantage of the hotel's pool, while others tried their luck at the local casino or sought out Rhode Island's famous seafood. This unstructured time proved to be one of the Conclave's highlights, with many attendees later citing these informal bonding moments as their favorite parts of the experience. Chapter of the Year Competition Thursday evening brought one of the Conclave's most anticipated events: the Chapter of the Year competition. Four chapters, deemed eligible based on their annual performance, competed for this prestigious title. The Mu Alpha Chapter of Susquehanna University, Mu Beta Chapter of Ohio Northern University, Mu Sigma Chapter of Rutgers-New Brunswick, and Mu Upsilon Chapter of Robert Morris University each had 10 minutes to present on five key topics: chapter operations, impact initiatives, recruitment, Phi Mu Delta pride, and innovation. The presentations were a testament to the strength and vitality of Phi Mu Delta's chapters, with each group showcasing their unique achievements and contributions to their campuses and communities. Voting delegates from the Conclave cast their ballots, setting the stage for the announcement of the winner at the closing banquet. A Journey Through History Friday morning offered a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in Phi Mu Delta's rich history. Using a historical timeline meticulously crafted by long-standing volunteer Dave Smittle and his wife Kim, brothers were able to explore tangible pieces of their fraternity's past. From the original minutes of the very first Phi Mu Delta Conclave to Triangle Magazines from the 1930s, rush pamphlets from the 1960s, and national rituals of yesteryear, attendees gained a deeper appreciation for the legacy they were now a part of. This journey through time was followed by a heartfelt Creed Talk led by Shawn Stabile, the National Ritual Educator and advisor for the Mu Omicron Chapter. In this powerful session, members engaged in deep, meaningful conversations about Phi Mu Delta's core values, reinforcing the principles that have guided the fraternity for over a century. Ritual and Reflection The afternoon saw the official opening of the Conclave, marked by a procession and remarks from President Joe Thompson. What followed was perhaps the most moving part of the entire event – a shared ritual led by the Mu Alpha, Mu Beta, Mu Sigma, and Mu Upsilon chapters, under the direction of Shawn Stabile. More than 100 men stood in a room, candles in hand, recommitting themselves to the ideals of Phi Mu Delta. The power of this moment was palpable, with many brothers later describing it as a highlight of their Conclave experience. A special note of thanks was given to the Mu Upsilon Chapter for bringing the full regalia and robes to Providence for this shared ritual, exemplifying the spirit of brotherhood and cooperation that defines Phi Mu Delta. Celebration and Tradition Friday evening brought two beloved Conclave traditions. First, a reception hosted by the Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation allowed brothers to mingle and discuss the day's events. This was followed by the raucous T-Shirt and Memorabilia Auction, a highlight for many attendees. Brothers donated their old shirts and Phi Mu Delta memorabilia to be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the Educational Foundation's mission of supporting Phi Mu Delta members through scholarships and educational experiences. Dustyn Hall, an alumnus of the Sigma Alpha Chapter, took on the role of auctioneer with gusto, keeping the energy high and the bids coming. Among the items up for grabs were laser-engraved wooden coasters created by Mu Beta's Ty Weir, a special edition Centennial Phi Mu Delta badge, custom-made shadow boxes crafted by Liz Foley, and a 1928 edition of the Triangle Magazine. The auction not only raised funds for a good cause but also allowed brothers to take home pieces of Phi Mu Delta history and memorabilia from other chapters. A Day of Learning and Leadership Saturday morning began on a musical note, with past president Jim Murphy leading delegates in learning two lost Phi Mu Delta songs, reconnecting the current generation with the fraternity's musical traditions. The day then split into focused discussions for undergraduates and alumni. The undergraduate roundtable tackled issues such as enhancing communication to officers beyond the chapter President and revisiting the Fraternity's New Member Education curriculum. Meanwhile, the Alumni Roundtable, consisting of delegates from Alumni Associations and Housing Corporations, shared best practices and explored ways to better support undergraduate chapters in conjunction with the National Office. The afternoon was dedicated to the Conclave's business meeting, where attendees heard remarks from President Joe Thompson and the Executive Director's state of the fraternity address. A special report from Nathan McCue of the Susquehanna chapter provided insights into how each chapter conducts their new member education. Two significant business items were on the agenda: proposed changes to the constitution (with many tabled for further exploration) and a minor adjustment to the way Phi Mu Delta slates its new officers. The delegates approved the nominating committee's slate, led by Teague Emery, with Past President Dr. Paul Kittle Jr. serving as the meeting's parliamentarian. A Grand Finale The 61st Conclave concluded with a roaring celebration. The closing cocktail reception and banquet were described by many as a "riotous affair," perfectly capturing the spirit of brotherhood and joy that had built up over the previous days. Mike Doran served as the evening's Master of Ceremonies, guiding attendees through a program filled with highlights. Will Foran opened the night with a Phi Mu Delta toast from the 1920s, bridging the gap between the fraternity's past and present. Tom Murphy, honored for his years of service as Phi Mu Delta's 3rd Executive Director, delivered a rousing speech on Brotherhood that left many brothers feeling inspired and reconnected to the fraternity's core values. The evening also marked a celebration of the Mu Alpha Chapter's centennial, a testament to the enduring strength of Phi Mu Delta's bonds. Sam Waltemeyer, Phi Mu Delta's Executive Director, swore in the new National Council, including Joseph Thompson continuing as National President, Rich Winter as Vice President, Tim Schafer as the new Secretary, and Thomas Stephen replacing Phil Morin as the Fraternity's Treasurer. Mike Doran, Alex Fries, Spencer McBreairty, and Will Foran were instated as the National Council's Members-At-Large. Awards and Recognitions
The banquet was also a time to recognize the outstanding achievements of chapters and individual brothers. The awards presented included: The James A. Vitale Outstanding Volunteer Award: Presented to Vidad Malik for his exceptional work as the Provisional Chapter Specialist. The Robert C. Lomison Outstanding Undergraduate Member Award: Awarded to Trey Reichenfeld of the Mu Upsilon Chapter at Robert Morris University for his significant contributions to his chapter, campus, and community. The Eli C. Henry Most Improved Chapter Award: Given to the Nu Theta Chapter at RPI for their remarkable turnaround and progress following early challenges. The Perce R. Appleyard Award For Outstanding Community Service: Presented to the Mu Upsilon Chapter at Robert Morris University for their diverse and impactful service initiatives. The Charles S. Rising Outstanding Chapter President Award: Awarded to Henry Soto of the Mu Sigma Chapter at Rutgers University for his exceptional leadership and chapter improvements. Chapter Of The Year Award: In a new twist, the winner received the official gavel of the 61st Conclave. The Mu Alpha Chapter emerged victorious, recognized for their commitment to Phi Mu Delta's highest ideals and fostering an environment where members can thrive. Earlier during the Conclave the following awards were presented: The Dr. Albert D. Nutting Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award: This year's recipient was Kim Hinds-Brush, advisor of the Mu Omicron Chapter at Frostburg State University, for her outstanding dedication to advising and supporting her chapter. The David T. Smittle Emerging Leader Award: Tyler Vanish of the Mu Upsilon Chapter at Robert Morris University was honored with this award, marking him as a rising leader within Phi Mu Delta. The Outstanding Chapter Programming Award: In a unique twist this year, two chapters were jointly recognized for their collaborative efforts. The Mu Xi and Mu Zeta Chapters were celebrated for their joint Brotherhood Retreat at Deep Creek Lake, exemplifying the spirit of inter-chapter cooperation and innovative programming. The Commons Club Outstanding Alumni Association Award: This year, the Nu Gamma Alumni Association received this honor for their extraordinary commitment to Phi Mu Delta. Led by Association President Aidan Andrews, the Nu Gamma Alumni Association made a historic, unsolicited gift of $70,000 to support the operations of the National Fraternity. This generous contribution will benefit every chapter and undergraduate member, truly embodying the spirit of lifelong brotherhood and service. The evening concluded with the singing of newly rediscovered Phi Mu Delta songs led by Jim Murphy and a stirring speech from President Joe Thompson, sending brothers off with renewed enthusiasm and commitment to their fraternity. Reflections on a Transformative Experience As brothers prepared to depart Providence, many took time to reflect on their Conclave experience. When asked about their favorite parts of the event, responses varied widely, showcasing the diverse impacts of the gathering: "Meeting brothers from other chapters with similar experiences," one attendee shared, highlighting the value of cross-chapter connections. Another brother emphasized the power of informal interactions: "The time spent in between events with brothers from other chapters. I feel like some of my best conversations I had at restaurants or in downtime with brothers I haven't met before." The T-shirt auction was frequently mentioned as a highlight, combining fun with philanthropy. "The T-shirt auction was really fun, and I really enjoyed the award reception," one brother noted. For many alumni, the opportunity to reconnect was paramount. "As an alumnus, connecting with active brothers I've never met before," was cited as a favorite aspect. When asked why they would recommend future Conclaves to other brothers, attendees provided thoughtful and inspiring responses: "Conclave was an incredibly valuable experience for me. And it helped me realize that as an undergraduate, Phi Mu Delta was something much, much larger than my chapter," one brother reflected, encapsulating the eye-opening nature of the event. An alumnus emphasized the lifelong nature of fraternity bonds: "I think Conclave exhibits the concept that 'fraternity is for life'. The conversations, brotherhood, and fun really exemplify that your fraternity experience doesn't have to end at graduation." The professional development aspect was also highlighted: "It's a great opportunity to network with your fellow brothers and help you re-focus on prioritizing the brotherhood." Perhaps most powerfully, one attendee summed up the experience: "I believe this was one of the most productive and most impactful weekends I've had in my life. It is almost hard to put into words how much I enjoyed it." As the 61st Conclave of Phi Mu Delta came to a close, it was clear that the event had achieved its goals and more. Brothers left with renewed passion for their fraternity, stronger connections across chapters and generations, and a deeper understanding of Phi Mu Delta's rich history and bright future. The memories made and lessons learned in Providence will undoubtedly shape the fraternity's path forward, ensuring that Phi Mu Delta continues to foster democracy, inspire service, and strengthen brotherhood for years to come. |
