Brotherly Bonds Strengthened at Phi Mu Delta's 61st Conclave: A Week of Reflection, Growth, and Celebration

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

A High-Energy Kickoff
The Conclave began with a bang on Wednesday evening, as Brotherhood Night set the tone for the days to come. Led by Mu Alpha Chapter President Jake Lanning and National Council member Mike Doran, the opening event was designed to break the ice and foster connections among attendees. Through a series of games and engaging conversations, brothers from different chapters and generations began to form the connections that would deepen throughout the week.

Dialogue and Development
Thursday morning saw the brothers dive into a series of undergraduate dialogues, each led by experienced members of the fraternity. Vidad Malik tackled the crucial topic of increasing chapter pride and brotherhood, while National President Joe Thompson explored ways to add value to the Phi Mu Delta experience. Tyler Stewart shared insights on effective chapter programming, and Thomas Stephen delved into the intricacies of chapter finances and affordability.

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.