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Puerto Rico Relief

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October 15, 2017
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In light of the recent devastation in Puerto Rico brought about by Hurricane Maria, the Brothers of Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Inc. will be collecting donations and raising funds for all those affected. Despite making landfall over a week ago, many Puerto Ricans are still without food, water, and basic housing supplies. Power outages are widespread in the island and could be out for months in some areas.

Please help our Brothers collect items to be sent to Puerto Ricans in need. Tampa brothers will be using the donations raised to purchase household items such as plasticware, paper towels, toothbrushes, etc. If you are in the Tampa area and would like to donate locally, all donations can be dropped off at 4916 S Lois Avenue, Tampa, FL 33611 Monday to Saturday, from 11AM to 7 PM.

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Thoughts On Charlottesville

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August 27, 2017
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Regarding recent events that took place in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Board of Directors and the National Executive Board of Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Inc. express heartfelt condolences to the families of Heather D. Heyer, Lieutenant H. Jay Cullen, and Trooper Berke M. M. Bates, who lost their lives during this incident.

As an organization that advocates for Asian cultural awareness, we not only support our Brothers who exercise their voice in the fight against racism, bigotry, and social injustice, we support all people of good will who do the same.

While we use the word “fight” for this continuing struggle, it is a metaphor. We specifically condemn all forms of violence, particularly violence used to thwart political discourse and free expression of ideas.

PO BOX 2920 Church Street Station
New York, NY 10008-2920

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Announcing our National Board of Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Incorporated!

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November 1, 2016

On the weekend of October 21, 2016, volunteers from various chapters and different cities came to Ithaca, home of Kappa Chapter at Cornell University, to plan the future of Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Inc. From inside of the conference room to the beautiful gorges of Ithaca, our volunteers gained fresh perspectives and discovered their true sense of purpose as leaders of the organization. During the retreat, guest speakers from various backgrounds and organizations were invited to share their experiences and knowledges with the volunteers.

Hannah Seoh, Chair of the National APIA Panhellenic Association (NAPA) and Bilal Badruddin, National President of Delta Epsilon Psi Fraternity and Assistant to the Vice President & Dean of Residential Life and Student Support at Colgate University, provided their perspectives and guidance to the volunteers as members from different organizations. Both guests have years of experience in association management, campus advising, and interfraternal relations.

A member of the Association and Fraternity/Sorority Advisors (AFA) provided an overview of AFA engagement, interfraternal relations, and other works on campuses across the nation. A student panel consisting of members from the NAPA sub-council of the Multicultural Greek Letter Council (MGLC) shared their insights on chapter/national relationships and individual chapter operations. Alumni members of the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., also shared their personal insights and chapter history.

Pi Delta Psi Retreat was an opportunity to gather dedicated volunteers to address, reflect, and identify strategic goals for the fraternity. I was inspired by the commitment and energy from everyone during the weekend. We have an amazing group of volunteers stepping up to lead the fraternity and had insightful guest speakers.

I am so honored to have been the host of this year’s retreat and am pleased to announce the incoming National Board 2016-2017 for our organization.

National Executive Council (Two year terms)
National President: John Loata Jr. ’03, MBA (Rutgers University)
Executive Vice President (EVP): Raphael ‘Raffy’ Rivera ’09 (University of South Florida)
Vice President of Communications (VPC): Alan Wang ’13 (George Mason University)
Vice President of Education (VPED): Jon Lin ’12 (Penn State University)
Vice President of Expansion (VPEX): Travis Shepard ’12 (University of Florida)
Vice President of External Affairs (VPEA): Gabe Lainez ’12 (George Mason University)
Vice President of Finance (VPF): Jason Reyes ’12 (University of South Florida)
Vice President of Operations (VPO): Jeff Gao ’10 (University of South Florida)

National Cabinet
Communications Team
Director of Information Technology: Kyle Nguyen  ’12 (George Mason University)
Director of Public Relations: Edgar Tran ’13 (George Mason University)
Historian: Eric Wu ’13 (University of Connecticut)

Education Team
Director of New Member Education: Austin Funes ’13 (University of Connecticut)
Director of New Member Education: Dan Acampado ’12 (Rutgers University)

External Affairs Team
Director of Academic Initiatives & Standards: TBD
Director of Advocacy: Ben Nguyen ’12 (University of Colorado at Boulder)
Director of Philanthropy: Prem Warde ’11 (University of Central Florida)

Operations Team
Director of Chapter Services, DMV: TBD
Director of Chapter Services, Midwest: Meng Yang ’12 (University of Minnesota)
Director of Chapter Services, New York: Eddie Hsiao ’02 (Stony Brook University)
Director of Chapter Services, Northeast: Charles Laboy ’12 (University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
Director of Chapter Services, Southeast: John Nguyen ’12 (University of Florida)
Directors of Chapter Services, Upstate New York: Nick Butkowski ’09 (University of Rochester) & Tim Yip ’04 (SUNY Buffalo)
Director of Chapter Services, West: Minh Nguyen ’13 (University of Colorado at Boulder)
Convention: Kevin Lee ’11 (New York University)

Please see our website  for updated information of our volunteers here 

Fraternally Yours and Alpha Psi,

Vigor Lam ‘11, M.Ed.
Board of Directors, 2015-2018

 

 

 

Contact

Edgar Tran, Director of Public Relations
edgar.tran@pideltapsi.com
www.pideltapsi.com

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Touch of Modern Featured on Cheddar.com

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October 31, 2016
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Many of our brothers are ambitious and adventurous when pursuing their careers. Most of them pursue opening their own businesses. In previous posts on our FB page and our main website, we featured Touch of Modern: a company modernizing men’s fashion through high quality products at unbeatable prices. This company is also owned by two of our brothers of Pi Delta Psi, Jerry Hum and Dennis Liu.
It is amazing to see how far the company has come. Recently, the company was featured on Cheddar, a news network focused on covering the most innovative products, technologies, and services.

Watch the link below to see the interview with Brother Jerry Hum!

https://cheddar.vhx.tv/videos/cheddar-cheddar-live-s2-e091616-b-full-mezz-hd-en-us?utm_source=fb

Featured Brother

Huy Huynh

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October 30, 2016
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image3Huy Huynh is one of the 20 Founding Charters of the Sigma Chapter at the University of Florida. Throughout his undergraduate years, he held leadership positions within and outside of his chapter- ranging from being President of Sigma Chapter to gaining membership into prestigious organizations, such as the leadership honorary Florida Blue Key and Florida Cicerones. After graduating with a Bachelor’s in Human Nutrition, he pursued a Master’s in Food Science, and then got accepted into the University of Florida College of Dentistry. After he graduated as a Doctor of Dental Medicine, he began working in Orlando, Florida for 2 years before he was diagnosed with a very rare form of brain cancer. He is one of the most influential brothers of his chapter and continues to be a role model for all of our brothers.

From Asian American Greek Interest Group (AAGIG) to Pi Delta Psi

Coming from a small town in Winter Haven, Florida, where the Asian demographic is slim, Huy felt a sense of opening himself to the world as he stepped foot on campus. Graduating from a high school of 32 students and going to a university of over 50,000 students was a big change. So, he chose to embrace the future and became involved within the Asian American Student Union (AASU) at the University of Florida.image2

One day, he was approached by early members of AAGIG and was asked if he wanted to join. At first, he refused after much persistence. Then, in his fall semester of his 2nd year, Huy was offered a free t-shirt by one of the members of AAGIG before standing on stage next to the men who would later become his pledge brothers. AAGIG was officially introduced on campus.

Under the guidance of Brother Hubert “Optimus” Ho from the Mu Chapter at the Ohio State University, Huy and members of AAGIG became heavily involved with the Asian American community on campus. And, because of the lack of Asian American representation in the community, Huy found a purpose to stay committed to AAGIG. After years of dedication to promoting cultural awareness, Huy, along with 19 gentlemen, became the newest addition to Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Incorporated at the University of Florida. image1During his years as an active brother, he became President and Step Master of his chapter from 2004 to 2006. His presidency created opportunities to build relations with other Greek and non-Greek organizations on campus, as well as promote philanthropic and cultural awareness events, which set an impressive image for his chapter.

After Pi Delta Psi

Not only was Huy an exemplary leader of Pi Delta Psi, he was an exemplary leader in the field of dentistry as well. During his high school and early college years, Huy worked for Walt Disney World at Space Mountain. Though the fantasy job was fun at the time, Huy was taught a great lesson of personal interaction and care. As he continued college, his interests guided him to pursue a career as a general dentist at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, where he graduated as a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2013.

On June 9, 2015, two years after he started establishing himself in his career, Huy was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer. He underwent surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to fight against the cancer. But, 3 months later, the cancer metastasized and spread to other parts of his brain and spinal cord. image4As a result, he had to stop working as the illness would affect his vision and motor skills. Having to halt his career and feeling defeated by the tumors, he went through a period of loneliness, anger, and depression. To him, he felt he went “0 steps forward and 100 steps back”.

After 2 months, he regained his mentality with the support of his family and friends, realizing that he was never alone in his battle with cancer. He accepted the challenges at hand, but he did not accept losing to it. Each day he wakes up, he tells himself that it’s a success because he was able to stand up, put his feet on the ground, and walk out the front door. Despite the disabilities, he has made the choice to push forward, and accept that fact that even there may be one step backward, there will be progression with 10 steps forward. To Huy, he is now fighting back.

News

Convention XIV Schedule

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August 8, 2016
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Hey brothers! It’s an exciting year for us to be hosting Convention XIV. Below is the schedule for what will be happening this upcoming weekend.

Convention XIV Schedule

Friday Schedule
3:00pm – 9:00pm
Convention Registration
9:00pm – 11:00pm
Welcome Ceremony

Saturday Schedule
9:00am-10:15am
National Update
10:30am – 11:30am
Workshop Sessions 1
• Leadership Workshop (Breakout Session 1)
• Neo Workshop (Breakout Session 2)
• New Member Education (Breakout Session 3)
• Life After College (Breakout Session 4)
11:45am – 12:45pm
Workshop Sessions 2
• Asian Voices (Breakout Session 1)
• Protecting Your Chapter (Breakout Session 2)
• New Member Education Workshop (Breakout Session 3)
• Financial Management – Losing Loans (Breakout Session 4)

12:00pm – 2:00PM
Lunch
2:15pm – 3:15pm
Workshop Sessions 3
• Strolling Workshop (Breakout Session 1)
• How to be a Gentleman (Breakout Session 2)
• Initiation Then Demonstration: Probate Protocol (Breakout Session 3)
• Entrepreneurism with a Flame (Breakout Session 4)
3:30pm – 3:45pm
Directors’ Update
3:45pm – 4:30pm
Founding Father Q&A
National Updates
Awards (CSRs)
Expansion
Nexus Projects
7:00pm – 11:59 pm
National Banquet

Sunday Schedule
10:00am – 12:00pm
Breaking Fast and Barriers

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Convention XIV Registration

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July 19, 2016
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Hello brothers,

As mentioned in an earlier post, we are excited for another year of Alpha Psi. This will be an opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss. You’ll gain insight into what it truly means to be a brother of Pi Delta Psi and develop ways to give back to your community and brotherhood. The link to register for convention is here. If you have any questions, please email communications@pideltapsi.com. Thank you and AY

 

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Attack in Istanbul

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June 29, 2016
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We want to send our condolences to the families of victims who lost their lives and pray for those wounded as a result of the terrorist attack at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul. On Tuesday night, three assailants infiltrated the airport with guns and explosives killing 41 people and injuring 239 people before detonating themselves. It is unclear who the individuals were and why they carried out this attack.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/29/europe/turkey-istanbul-ataturk-airport-attack/

However, this is an important reminder that preconceived notions about a group of people must be shattered now. At times like these, we must provide support and strength to unify our friends and families in our communities and across the world.

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Convention XIV

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June 28, 2016
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2016_pdp_con14_flyer
To our brothers,

Let us reunite again at this year’s summer event, Convention XIV! Together we can help each other grow and succeed as brothers of Pi Delta Psi, members of our campus organizations, and leaders of our community. Be on the lookout as we will provide further details on how you can register for this event! Raise the torch, AY!
Flyer made by Brother Luke Vũ of Xi Chapter at University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Featured Brother

Jehron Pura-Bryant

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June 16, 2016
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Why Pi Delta Psi?

There’s many reasons why I’ve joined Pi Delta Psi; but primarily what struck me the most from the fraternity is the brotherhood and bonds made from the brothers. It was more than just a claim, you can feel the spirit resonate through each and every brother; something which I cherish to this day as a member. Despite any cultural differences, I was welcomed with open arms and it made my transition at my university smooth and enjoyable. Beyond that, I have always been involved with my university’s Philippine-American League (PAL) since my freshman year, an organization that’s near and dear to me as a Filipino-American. It was an added bonus that my chapter has been deeply invested with PAL; with brothers holding numerous executive board positions over the years. Not only did I enjoy my time with the fraternity outside of campus, but the presence and leadership displayed on campus is what set our Fraternity apart from other organizations.

What positions have you held on campus?

President of the Fraternity, Alpha Chapter – I’m truly honored and humbled that I was voted into the position by my brothers. I can say, wholeheartedly, I am proud of everything that we have accomplished together. As the President, I’m in the perfect position to lead the fraternity towards continued success and raise the standard for achievement and excellence on my campus. In my opinion the best style of leadership is to lead by example, and that’s what I intend to do through every aspect of my life.
Executive Board of PAL – the Philippine-American League was one of the first clubs/orgs I have joined since my Freshman year. In order to show my gratitude and appreciation, I wanted to be behind the scenes and plan the events that the general body always appreciates. In addition, in the process, I want to learn a little more about my own culture and heritage.
Mentor/Program Assistant of ELP – I came through the Emerging Leaders Program as a mentee my Freshman fall semester. While in the program, I’ve worked with an off-campus organization to raise awareness for Domestic Violence, which was an eye-opening experience. The following year I was selected to lead a group of mentees and guide them towards their own community service venture. This upcoming year, I’ve been selected to take it to the next step, and help facilitate the goals of the future mentors, and mentees. The goal is to keep advancing, and promoting with every endeavor.

While I have held other minor leadership positions, these three positions have truly shaped and influenced my collegiate experience.

Hobbies?

A notable feat that people tend to ask about, is my life in the chess world. I am a National Master of the United States Chess Federation, and have been since I was 15 years old – having made me one of the youngest masters of African-American descent. Probably one of the bigger achievements of my lifetime- and has paved the way for many opportunities for me in life; whether it be networking, travelling, or just the advancement of my critical thinking abilities. Other than chess, I enjoy music, specifically the performing arts. I dabble in a little spoken word, rap, and dance the night away if the feeling is right. As a dancer, not professionally trained, I have been the Stroll Master for the Alpha chapter since I crossed, and since then have lead the brothers towards some crowd-pleasing strolls. One of my favorite moments as an active brother, would be in May of 2016; we represented Pi Delta Psi, in a competition held by the Black Student Union at Binghamton University. With a lot of preparation, and tenacity, we clinched first place among other fraternities. It was a big feat, and a proud moment for our chapter; being the only organization of the Asian Greek Council, and the only organization with roots of Asian-Interests for that matter at Binghamton University. We paved the way and left our mark. Couldn’t have done it without my brothers and I am, and will always be, proud of everyone.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Although things are always subject to change and I have to remain flexible with whatever life throws at me – hopefully, if everything is going the way I plan; I’ll be towards the middle point of my medical school journey. Studying hard, but motivated to complete. I would also love to have a few more countries checked off of my “places to go” bucket list, and most importantly I would be living life happy and without regret.