Today, America continues to face the issue of racism and as fraternity men we must acknowledge and denounce all forms of hate and intolerance.
A Statement From The Brothers of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statement
Phi Kappa Theta Brothers, Mentors, and Volunteers –
Like you, we have been closely monitoring the evolving coronavirus situation. The most difficult part is knowing when to act – not to be an alarmist but not to act too late. We are taking our cues from the updates provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the State Departments of Health, local authorities, and our host institutions.
At this time, the Leadership and staff of Phi Kappa Theta believe it is our role and responsibility to focus on two priorities:
1. the health and safety of our members and staff and;
2. ensuring ongoing service to our members and chapters as we all maneuver our unique local circumstances.
Phi Kappa Theta staff already are primarily working remotely, and those who report to the office regularly have worked out remote policies. The staff will remain accessible during published office hours to serve the needs of our members and chapters.
We recommend chapters and housing corporations to closely follow the guidance of their respective host institutions and local authorities. Chapter meetings, housing board meetings, even new member education, can be held virtually. We also have an innovative and cutting-edge member development curriculum available online for those members electing to engage in these courses.
We encourage chapters to think creatively about recruitment and ongoing chapter operations. Even one term of no recruitment can result in long term damage, so explore new ways to reach out and connect virtually or in small groups with potential new members. Keep existing conversations going and utilize the online new member education program to move existing member classes forward. If you decide to postpone the formal initiation ritual due to local group gathering guidelines, let us know so we can note this in your chapter file.
We have the technology in place; it just isn't our usual way of meeting. Until further notice and as a precautionary step, we are canceling, postponing, or utilizing video conferencing for all scheduled board and national activities and events. We all expect this to be temporary, so at this point, we are not canceling the National Leadership Summit scheduled for July 17-18 in San Antonio. We will closely monitor the situation, so check back periodically for updates.
We appreciate your understanding and support, and we will continue to provide updates as this situation is ever-evolving. Phi Kappa Theta will continue to post updates to our website at www.phikaps.org.
For additional information, please review the updates from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, your local host institution, and our resource guide for chapters and volunteers.
Sincerely,
Doug Dilling
National President
Brother Keith Harshbarger Announces Departure
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Phi Kappa Theta Announces the Transition of Keith Harshbarger
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA | April 15, 2019 – Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity announces the departure of its Director of Brand Management, Keith Harshbarger.
Keith Harshbarger (National at Large ‘06) has recently accepted an opportunity with Conner Prairie, one of Indiana’s premier outdoor destinations for families, as a member of their creative team. Conner Prairie is Indiana’s first Smithsonian affiliate, and one of the most visited outdoor museums in the country. Brother Harshbarger will be serving as their Social Media and Communications Specialist. Keith is a graduate of Indiana University & Purdue University of Indianapolis with a B.S. in Communications.
Over his twelve years with the Phi Kappa Theta, Brother Harshbarger has led the production of the TEMPLE Magazine, the Fraternity’s online presence including the website and all Fraternity social media content. Brother Harshbarger has also spearheaded the Fraternity and special event communication while managing the Fraternity’s brand. Keith lives in Indianapolis with his wife Meredith, and daughter Paisley. His last day with Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity was Friday, April 12.
We are incredibly grateful for the years of dedication and service Keith has given our fellow brothers over the years. Our well wishes go out to him and his family during this exciting transition.
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Phi Kappa Theta is a national fraternity that fosters five areas of development within its membership: leadership, fraternal, intellectual, social, and spiritual. Currently, the Fraternity has 37 active chapters. The mission of Phi Kappa Theta is to actively develop men to be effective leaders who passionately serve society, Fraternity and God.