Alumni Spotlight: Meet Mary Claire Reynolds

MARY CLAIRE REYNOLDS

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET MARY CLAIRE REYNOLDS

• Home chapter – Mu Delta @ Western Michigan University

• Initiation period – Spring 2011

• Graduation date – May 2014

• Major or study concentration – Music Education

• Main Instrument – Clarinet

• Current profession – Director of Bands @ Beal City Public Schools

• Current city – Mt. Pleasant, MI

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “When I entered college as a freshmen in the Bronco Marching Band, I immediately felt welcomed by the environment and atmosphere. I think most individuals who come across this spotlight will understand the incredible and indescribable connections you create in college marching band, and among this uplifting group of people, I found the Brothers standing out above the rest. In the Brothers I met before taking my own membership journey, I found kindness, friendship, and a willingness to help. I realized that if I wanted to get the most out of my collegiate experience, that I should do my best to surround myself with those people. I wanted to be like them.” 

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “I served the Mu Delta chapter in many capacities, including spending 4 years on the Membership Education committee. Positions I have held include Assistant Membership Educator, Music Director, Recording Secretary, Relations Officer, 2014 District Convention Delegate, and Vice President for Membership. I thoroughly enjoyed serving in a variety of ways throughout my time in the chapter, but the positions I loved most were my time as the Relations Officer and Vice President for Membership. As Relations Officer, I grew a passion for traveling the district, meeting new Brothers, and shared that passion with my chapter. As Vice President for Membership, I taught the 12 members of the Iota class the ways of the Fraternity, and shared in their eagerness to serve and strive.”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “My favorite memory from my Active membership would absolutely have to be the 2014 NCD Convention in Dayton. I served the Mu Delta chapter as delegate, gained more insight on the workings of our Fraternity on a larger level, and learned from other chapters and Brothers. This convention came at the end of my year serving as Relations Officer, in which I had encouraged my chapter to engage in district travel more than they had in several years; we were even strong contenders for the Golden Gas Can! Furthermore, at this convention I was chosen as a Student Conductor for the District Reading Band and was thrilled to conduct the ensemble through "Kentucky 1800" after receiving valuable one-on-one feedback from Dr. Richard Suk. This opportunity really ignited my passion for conducting, am I am still participating in experiences of this nature today.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “My time in Kappa Kappa Psi has helped me both professionally and personally. As I mentioned before, the Fraternity has given me ample opportunities to hone my craft in a manner that benefits my professional life, and has provided me numerous networking opportunities. Furthermore, being a Brother of Kappa Kappa Psi has helped me become the best version of myself. Learning the ideals of the Fraternity, serving in a variety of leadership positions, and working with other Brothers helped me become the person I need to be for my students. For me, being a Brother was not always easy. When I was younger, I struggled to see the bigger picture, and how I fit into the chapter dynamic. There were times that I questioned my worthiness, but my Brothers were always there to help me be strong. I experienced a great deal of personal growth in college that I attribute to my time and service in Kappa Kappa Psi.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “I would really love to make more connections with alumni brothers. During my Active years, I did not branch out and meet Brothers from other chapters until I was nearing the end of my college career, but those were some of my best times as an Active, and they brought me closer to my own chapter as well. I believe I'm not alone among alum when I say that life after college can be lonely and isolating if you let it. Having this avenue to reach out and meet others that share my interests will be invaluable for my personal and professional life.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “I am looking forward to being able to continue to serve in any capacity I can. Being an Active collegiate member was so inspiring, and I hope to continue to be energized by the organization by communicating with other alum and attending programming. I find that I am a better educator when I engage in things outside of school that excite me. I'm thrilled that I have the opportunity to still be involved with the Fraternity that afforded me so many opportunities and experiences.”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. - “Anyone is welcome to add me on Facebook, Twitter: @MsReynoldsBC, Instagram: mcreyn76, or Snapchat: murclurr.”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“If anyone needs any assistance to how to brand themselves professionally, how you can use KKPsi in any job market/resume, assistance with budgeting and finance, or resume work, I can help!”

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Alumni Spotlight: Meet Viet Nguyen

VIET NGUYEN

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET VIET NGUYEN

• Home chapter – Eta @ The Ohio State University

• Initiation period – Spring 2014

• Graduation date – May 2018

• Major or study concentration – Strategic Communications & Business Administration

• Main Instrument – Mellophone/French Horn

• Current profession – Development Resident @ tOSU

• Current city – Columbus, OH

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “The main reason why I joined Kappa Kappa Psi was that I was looking for something bigger than myself. Initially, I was dragged into it, and I wasn't so sure if I should join (very thankful that I did). As a young freshman, I was looking for something greater than myself. Being in the marching band was a good experience, but I wanted something more. It was thanks to the Eta chapter that inspired me to join that made me discover who I am.” 

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “I was the VP of Membership and the Archives & Branding Committee in Eta. VP of Membership in the NCD. Lead in one class in the spring (the “Nguyen-ers” they named themselves).”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “One of my favorite memories was watching the ritual band rehearse the first composition competition piece at the 2018 spring convention. It was a fantastic moment watching brothers come together to play music, especially during the degree of the ritual.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “KKPsi has helped me immensely. I honestly wouldn’t be in the job I am in today. They taught me how to be a better leader and to step up when the occasion needs it. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the lessons of KKPsi.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “Looking forward to staying connected with the other members of the association and support the active students.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “Just the great newsletters and how I can pay it forward to the students.”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. - “Facebook (Viet Nguyen), LinkedIn.”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“If anyone needs any assistance to how to brand themselves professionally, how you can use KKPsi in any job market/resume, assistance with budgeting and finance, or resume work, I can help!”

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Alumni Spotlight: Meet Alexandria Krutkiewicz

ALEXANDRIA KRUTKIEWICZ

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET ALEXANDRIA KRUTKIEWICZ

• Home chapter – Iota Lambda @ the University of Mount Union

• Initiation period – Winter 2015

• Graduation date – May 2017

• Major or study concentration – Marketing

• Main Instrument – Percussion

• Current profession – Pricing Analyst

• Current city – Amherst, OH

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “In high school, I was extremely involved in the band program.  I basically marched all year round between marching band and WGI. It's how I met my friends, created great character, and learned how to balance school work and extracurricular activities.  Our band director was a member of the Bluecoats and alumni of the Fraternity (which I found out after high school), so I was exposed to DCI, too. Experiencing the passion and camaraderie between the members of the band made me feel amazing. I knew these were the kind of people I wanted to be surrounded by throughout my life.

Going into college I knew I NEEDED to continue my marching career. I even learned about Kappa Kappa Psi while I was researching colleges to attend. When I was at band camp, I made sure I knew all of the Brothers and asked as many questions as possible. I was amazed by all of the events they put on during band camp to make the experience fun. I wanted to be someone that invites new and old members to bond after practices. I was always committed to music, so why not join the Fraternity dedicated to serving the bands?” 

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “I was a Brother, which is the most important position you can hold. I wasn't on the board, but I did manage to do a lot as an active member of the chapter. My first National Convention was just months after I crossed over in Spring 2015 and I was a proxy delegate for the Gamma Omicron chapter. It was great to represent another chapter with Brothers that I knew from high school! I was chosen as the delegate to represent my own chapter at NCD Convention in April, as well. Outside of conventions, I was the Fundraising Committee Head from 2016 to 2017. During that period, we held Cope Formal twice a year for any member of the Fine Arts community at Mount Union. My committee and I held candy sales, Yankee Candle sales, and the biggest event of all, TUBAChristmas.”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “One of my favorite memories as an active Brother was getting to go to National Convention in 2015. Our chapter drove to Kentucky in Helga the "Struggle Bus".  I felt like we were really able to bond being stuck together for a whole week. I met so many great Brothers and Sisters there and attended so many wonderful events. As a newly initiated Brother, I was still excited, but this event blew my mind. The best part was singing the hymn with all the brothers from around the Nation. I'm pretty sure I cried. National Convention just reconfirmed how amazing our Fraternity is.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “Kappa Kappa Psi has helped me in a magnitude of ways. Personally, I learned that though you might not get the recognition you think you deserve, know you're still doing something important.  People remember others by their actions, not words. So remember that recognition is not always verbal. It also showed me how to apply a good attitude toward tasks I'm not too fond of at work. Service isn't always considered fun, but you can make it be! 

Professionally, it also paved a way for me for me to improve my networking skills. It's hard to approach strangers, even if they are a Brother, and strike up a conversation. I learned that asking others questions and by being an active listener, you can get pretty far in a conversation.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “I want to continue to connect with Brothers and continue conversations around music, work, and life. It's always great to talk to someone that you don't work with or see every day. It's refreshing to hear that others share your struggles and triumphs too.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “I'm looking forward to meeting Brothers who are outside of my chapter and/or older alumni. Hopefully, we'll have an event near Cleveland soon.”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. - “My Twitter, Instagram, & Snapchat is @Boisdouis. Feel free to follow or message me!”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“Message me on any social platform if you would like my number.”

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Alumni Spotlight: Meet Jacob Boesch

JACOB BOESCH

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET JACOB BOESCH

• Home chapter – Gamma Pi @ Purdue University

• Initiation period – Spring 2015

• Graduation date – May 2016

• Major or study concentration – Civil Engineering

• Main Instrument – Clarinet

• Current profession – Civil Engineer

• Current city – Chicago, IL

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “When I was in high school, I was incredibly involved with my band. So, it was only natural to for me to continue that when I came to college. I played in the marching band and volunteered a bunch of my time to the program. I didn’t know too much about the fraternity to begin with, but as my first semester went on, I found many of the band members that I looked up to were brothers. Although I was initially turned off by the idea of joining a fraternity, I quickly realized that this was an organization that defied my preconceived notions. I interviewed in the Spring semester and never looked back.”

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “When I was active, I held a number of positions at the chapter and district level. For context, Gamma Pi holds elections each semester. In my chapter, I was service committee head in Spring 2016, Vice President Fall 2016 - Spring 2017, and Secretary Fall 2017. In addition, I served as my chapter’s district delegate in 2016 and 2017 and sat on the awards and nominations committees. I was our national delegate in 2017 and served on the programming committee. Lastly, I served as NCD Vice President for Programs in 2017-2018. I was incredibly fortunate to be given so many opportunities to serve the bands and my brothers.”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “My favorite experience from my time as an active has to be National Convention in Orlando in 2017. It would recommend every brother to go to National Convention during your time as an active if possible. My outgoing President and I made the road trip from West Lafayette and the way down to Orlando.

It was an incredible experience being able to serve my fraternity on that level as a member of the national chapter. I was able to vote on the Road to Wisdom, forever changing our brotherhood. This was also shortly after I was appointed to the position of NCD VPP and I got to spend the week bonding with my fellow council members. To this day, the closing dinner is the only time I’ve ever cried singing our hymn. It was all around a life changing experience that I will never forget.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “I am thoroughly convinced that I would not be in my current position if it weren’t for my experience in Kappa Kappa Psi. I was a fairly average student in school, and although I had internship experience, I wasn’t sure it would be enough to set myself apart from the pack when applying for jobs. However, I knew I had an edge when it came to my fraternal activities. I had developed many skills through my volunteer work and my time in the band, chiefly among those are time management and communication. Both of which are incredibly important in my field.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “I hope that I can make more connections through the NCDAA, both personal and professional. Most of my closest friends are brothers and sisters and I’d love to expand that group. It isn’t always the easiest task to meet new people after graduation, so I’m glad I have this group to help with that.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “I’m excited to be able to continue my involvement with the brotherhood and have the opportunity to continue to give back to an organization that has given me so much. Older members of the fraternity will often tell you will spend far more of your life as an alumni member than active. I hope my time in the NCDAA will help me take advantage of that time.”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. - “I’m not the most active person on social media, but feel free to add me if you’d like. Just search “Jacob Boesch” on Facebook. It’s not the most common name so I’m pretty easy to find. In addition, feel free to connect with me via LinkedIn.”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“If you want to get ahold of me outside of social media, you can email me at jacobaboesch@gmail.com.”

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Alumni Spotlight: Meet Andrew Schneider

ANDREW SCHNEIDER

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET ANDREW SCHNEIDER

• Home chapter – Zeta Epsilon @ Michigan State University

• Initiation period – Spring 2014

• Graduation date – May 2016

• Major or study concentration – History Education

• Main Instrument – Alto Saxophone

• Current profession – Historian & Educational Support

• Current city – Ann Arbor, MI

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “Going into college, I was very involved in the musical world in high school, and had debated about taking it as a major. Despite my focus being in History Education, I wanted to find a way to get involved in the musical arts at MSU anyway that I could, and I was fortunate to make it into the Spartan Marching Band (someone dropped out, and I was called 3 weeks before preseason began!). Despite making the alternate squads my first season, I enjoyed the entire experience, along with making all of the wonderful friends that I’m still close with today. 

Being in the SMB, I did see active brothers at work, helping during the preseason, gamedays, and even during the postseason as well. I thought it was awesome that this group existed! I didn’t know anything really about Kappa until an active brother (Nick Cervantes) talked about Kappa to me, and what they did & strived for. Needless to say, I was interested to become a brother & serve the bands anyway that I could. Though anxious about the idea of joining a fraternity (bad experience by my roommates scared me), I took the chance to join and I am happy to say that it was one of the best decisions of my life.”

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “I never held a position as an active brother, though I did work on a variety of committees. I was involved in our District-Nationals committee for about a year (working to prepare the chapter for District & National convention), and then got involved in our Brotherhood Committee (BroHoCo) for my last year. During the non-academic season, I worked as a co-chair for the Freshmen Letters Committee for Preseason, a program, that we share with our chapter of Tau Beta Sigma, in which brothers & sisters write letters to incoming freshmen of the SMB with notes of encouragement, tips & tricks, and general advice about their first year ahead.”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “Oh goodness, where do I begin? There’s too many! Honestly some of my favorite memories of being an active brother were attending the many conventions & blocks held across the district. Not only was it a way to grow in my knowledge of Kappa & the betterment of my professional & personal self, but it was a wonderful way to meet new brothers from across the district & to share ideas and help out any way possible. That being said, a road trip with Kappa brothers is a special experience & something I really miss. From late night drives across the district (like from Northern Illinois to MSU), to driving through a blizzard to attend convention (arriving in Ft. Wayne, IN at 3am...), traveling with Kappa has blessed me with many wonderful miles of memories.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “I would say that Kappa has given me a world of connection, with brothers from across the country who share the same passion to serve the bands. From laughs to low-key therapy sessions, Kappa has been able to provide a system of support that has saved my life & my sanity. Professionally, through the connections I keep and the many workshops attended, Kappa has provided an environment that flourishes new ideas & philosophies of life that can better ones life, and has certain done so for me. Most importantly, it has created a canal to quench a thirst to serve the bands. The people that are with this organization all strive under the same banner, and can provide the necessary means to allow the bands of this country to thrive. And if there are cases where some bands need help, brothers are there & ready to help. It’s such an amazing community of people, and something I think can be a source of inspiration for companies & organizations everywhere.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “I hope to continue to grow, professionally and personally, through the people that I meet & the workshops that I attend. It’s always true that we never stop mentally growing & we are always learning something new everyday, even as alumni. Through the NCDAA, in the workshops that are held, and through the meet & greets hosted, I feel that brothers can be able to continue to grow and become more wise as they go into their lives as alumni, knowing that this close-knit community will support their hard works and efforts, praising & supporting them along the way. I believe that the cards are right for this beautiful community to blossom into something spectacular, and I am happy to be a part of it.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “I look forward to being around brothers that still have that drive to serve the bands, where you can see that they are still passionate about the bands, even though their careers may veer them a different direction. And, if anything, it will be nice to continue that sense of a close community amongst brothers, and getting to meet new friends along the way! I hope that I can be able to help new brothers of the NCDAA make that transition to the alumni life, and make them feel like they are entering something that is wonderful & useful for their professional and personal lives.”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. - “You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram! I also have a Linkedin account, if you’re feeling fancy & professional!”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“If you have any questions, you can reach me at schne394@gmail.com or at my cell, but please message me about my number.”

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Alumni Spotlight: Meet Emily Damone

Emily Damone

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET EMILY DAMONE

• Home chapter – Gamma Pi @ Purdue University

• Initiation period – Spring 2015

• Graduation date – May 2018

• Major or study concentration – Statistics and Mathematics

• Main Instrument – French Horn and Mellophone

• Current profession – Graduate Student, Biostatistics PhD, University of North Carolina

• Current city – Chapel Hill, NC

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? - “I was drawn to Kappa Kappa Psi for many reasons. At Purdue, Psi is an integral part of the bands community. I routinely saw upperclassmen wearing letters at rehearsals and saw that they were normally the ones having the most fun as well as encouraging and helping others. I would say two main people drew me into the brotherhood to begin with. My section leader my freshman year was also a brother, and she reached out to me to invite me to recruitment events and was routinely someone I could approach with any questions or issues. I saw brothers in our department as the leaders and ones the directors could depend on for whatever they needed. I wanted to be able to be that in the department and give back to the band in any way possible.”

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? - “As an active brother I served as the community chair for two years, planning events for the brothers in chapter as well as the department as a whole. My junior year I was the Vice President of Membership for Gamma Pi and I loved the responsibility and impact I could have on the future of my chapter through the role.”

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. - “There are many to choose from, but one of my favorites was before 3rd degree the year I was VPM. I was with the class of initiates standing outside the ritual room. As we waited to begin the degree, I was able to step back and watch Sound the “Psi-ren” interact with each other as soon-to-be brothers. The group of around 20 students who otherwise wouldn’t have interacted except for on the practice field had built relationships that would last forever. While I had little to do with this, it was great to see their relationships progress and see the impact our brotherhood has on those around us first-hand.”

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both) - “I believe Psi has helped me understand the importance of taking initiative. As a brother, we’re some of the first people the directors turn to when they need something for the department. It became second nature to me and is something I’ve continued past graduation.”

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. - “I want to be able to grow the relationships have with brothers outside of Gamma Pi but still have the automatic connection of love of music and brotherhood. I hope these connections can help me both professionally and personally as I make the transition to the “real-world” surrounded by people who care about the same ideals and people I do.”

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - “I look forward to being able to support current brothers and ensure their experience with the fraternity is as great as it can be!”

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. 
Facebook – Emily Damone
LinkedIn – Emily Damone
Instagram – emily__meghan (beware, it’s mostly yarn and my puppy)

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 
“Email – emilydamone@gmail.com or edamone@live.unc.edu”

Alumni Spotlight: Meet Maggie Sant

MAGGIE SANT

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET MAGGIE SANT

• Home chapter – Sigma @ Ohio Northern University

• Initiation period – Spring 2010

• Graduation date – May 2015

• Major or study concentration – Pharmacy with a secondary major in Applied Music

• Main Instrument – French Horn

• Current profession – Population Health Pharmacist

• Current city – Cincinnati, OH

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? – "It was evident from my first week of band camp at ONU how integral Kappa Kappa Psi was to the operations of the marching band. Each and every brother was a leader in their own way; whether that be serving as an officer or leading by example on the field.  I knew almost immediately that I wanted to be a part of Kappa Kappa Psi, but I had no idea how exciting and fulfilling my journey as an active brother would be all those years ago.”

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? – "I started off as the secretary for our prospective membership class in 2010.  As an active brother of Sigma chapter, I served as Alumni Relations Officer for one year and Vice President of Membership for two years.  During my fifth year of pharmacy school, I served as the Secretary/Treasurer for the North Central District."

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. – "My favorite memory as an active member would have to be the 2014 NCD Convention held in Dayton, Ohio. Not only was that a convention I helped organize and plan as a district officer, but my home chapter was hosting. I learned a lot throughout that process as I had never been a part of an operation as big as hosting district convention. The weekend was a success and I am glad I was able to share that with all of my brothers from Sigma.  My biological brother had become a member of Kappa Kappa Psi, so it was an added bonus that I was able to share that experience with him as well."

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both)  – "The job market for pharmacists in Ohio is highly competitive, but my experiences within the fraternity helped me stand out during the interview process. Even though a band fraternity is not the same as a pharmacy, there are skills I learned as an active member that transfer to the professional world.  Kappa Kappa Psi taught me how to plan effective meetings, how to manage my time, how to make actionable goals, how to work independently, and how to plan strategically for the future by aligning decisions to mission/vision statements. 

I know it sounds cheesy, but I also learned how to keep striving for the highest.  Just because something is good enough does not mean it cannot be improved.  Shortly after graduating from pharmacy school, I started working on my MBA in Healthcare Administration online at the University of Cincinnati.  It has been a long process earning this degree while working full time, but the patience and ambition I developed as an active member have helped to guide me through this post-grad journey."

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - "I am looking forward to meeting other brothers who want to be active alumni. I have heard many brothers say they feel like they are “cut off” after graduation because this huge part of their life is gone.  I hope that we can continue to serve the bands through this alumni association by supporting the active membership. I hope we can build an association that provides a place for new grads to continue their service seamlessly while transitioning from college to the real world."

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. – "I know it sounds selfish, but I would love for there to be a large NCDAA presence at NCD events. I graduated a little over three years ago and I have thought about going back to district events, but have been hesitant because I was not sure what would happen as an alumni. As an active member, I did not see a large alumni presence at district events. So my biggest fear was showing up to MER or district convention and not having a group of people my own age present. I think alumni programming put on by the NCDAA would draw more alumni attendance to district events as well."

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you.

“Find me on Facebook (Maggie Sant) and connect with me on Instagram (@millennialmaggie).”

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. 

“Feel free to reach out via email (maggiesant22@gmail.com). If anyone is in Southwestern Ohio, then please reach out and we can talk about the good old days!”

Alumni Spotlight: Meet Mollie Westbrook

MOLLIE WESTBROOK

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET MOLLIE WESTBROOK

• Home chapter – Alpha Zeta @ Indiana University - Bloomington

• Initiation period – Fall 2010

• Graduation date – May 2014

• Major or study concentration – English Literature and Composition, Nonprofit Management

• Main Instrument – Tenor Sax, Clarinet

• Current profession – Senior Program Manager, OrchKids

• Current city – Baltimore, MD

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? – "I arrived at Indiana University in 2010 knowing little to nothing about Kappa Kappa Psi, or even that it was possible for women to join certain Fraternities. IU is a large institution and can feel very intimidating as a Freshman. I decided to attend Alpha Zeta’s call-out meeting on a whim after hearing that the organization centered around serving the Marching Hundred, which, after being actively involved in volunteering with my band program in high school, seemed like a natural fit for me. At the call-out, Kappa Kappa Psi seemed, initially, simply as an organization that would provide me with opportunities to serve IU’s bands and meet other like-minded students on campus. I would later discover how much more Kappa Kappa Psi has to offer, including the unique fellowship all brothers share. I could have never anticipated the impact this organization would later have on my life.”

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? – "I served as Alpha Zeta’s Vice President of Membership in 2013-2014. The Kappa Kappa Psi membership education process was always incredibly fascinating to me; I loved how each chapter could take guiding principles and core curricular concepts and create different educational journeys for their Prospective Members. After experiencing, observing, and studying the Membership Education Program (MEP) for three years, I decided to run for VPM on a platform geared towards overhauling Alpha Zeta’s MEP by making it a participatory, experiential process for the whole chapter. 

During my stint as VPM, my goal was to create a sense of community and belonging for Prospective Members (PMs) from the moment they received a bid from the Fraternity. I believed that the Membership Education process should not be exclusively shared between the VPM/Guiding spirit and the PMs; in order for PMs to be high-striving and fully prepared for the rigors of active membership after completing the Third Degree of ritual, all chapter members had to be involved in their education. With this goal in mind, I created curricular materials, interactive lesson plans, and a robust mentorship program for Prospective Members (PMs) and active brothers. One major piece of work I was able to produce for the chapter was what I affectionately called the “Psinder”. In this 70-page document was all relevant information about the Fraternity from the National Guide to Membership, interwoven between guided facilitation questions about how the history of the organization affects us today. I also created the “PM Project”, which was a tool designed to allow PMs to self-reflect and assess their progress throughout their journey towards active membership. The project was centered around one main question, “What is Kappa Kappa Psi?”, and encouraged PMs to think creatively about how the organization affects them personally and college/university band programs around the country. I had the PMs turn in their projects at the end of their MEP and was completely blown away by the uniqueness of their work. Completed projects included a board game depicting the path from Pre-Prospective Membership to Brotherhood, a 3D mobile, a mixtape with songs chosen to reflect different steps of the MEP, and various original works of art. "

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. – "There are two events that stand out prominently in my mind from my experiences as an active brother, and both happened within three weeks of each other in March 2014. The first was the night the pledge class I served as the Guiding Spirit for (Epsilon Zeta) went through the Third Degree Ritual ceremony and was initiated into the Fraternity. I was so proud to lead the pledges through the final ceremony; without going into specifics about parts of the ceremony that were especially powerful for me, I can safely say that performing that specific final act of service as Epsilon Zeta’s Guiding Spirit was one of the greatest honors of my life. My actual Dad, Tom Westbrook, was also initiated that night as an Honorary Brother for his service to the IU Marching Hundred, which added an extra layer of meaning to the whole proceedings for me. My Dad proudly displays his Membership Certificate at home and wears his Kappa Kappa Psi beanie in the winter to this day!

The second event was when my chapter, Alpha Zeta, won the North Central District Governor’s Cup. I felt that moment reflected four years of intensive reflection and hard work by my chapter in which we took risks and developed innovative programming that best reflected the needs of our brothers and university. AZ did not enter the 2013-2014 academic year with a goal of winning specific awards, instead we all pledged to strive for the highest as a team. Winning the award was the metaphorical “cherry on top” of a fantastic year of community-building for Alpha Zeta, and was the perfect way to end my career as an active Brother."

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both)  – "Kappa Kappa Psi is, in my opinion, the perfect organization to help people prepare for the multi-faceted roles and responsibilities of most professions. As a Brother you learn a variety of practical lessons, including time and project management, communicating information effectively, and basic organizational skills, but I felt that the emphasis on Service and Leadership were crucial to my professional development. Kappa Kappa Psi does an incredible job of giving Brothers the tools to become innovators, team-builders, and leaders by creating a standard of excellence for its members to strive towards. I use the Fraternal Code of Conduct as a compass for my work; whenever faced with difficult situations or problems, HIRL is my guide. Above all, Kappa Kappa Psi taught me to “Strive for the Highest”, and I use that motto to encourage greatness from my co-workers, employees, and students every day. "

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - "Since I’ve graduated, I’ve found myself becoming and feeling less and less connected to the NCD due to various factors (geographic location, career intensity, etc.). I am thrilled that this organization exists to help brothers like myself reconnect with the Fraternity and other alums. I am also hoping to serve as a resource for other alums for their professional and entrepreneurial pursuits!

I also believe that there is a large opportunity for KKPsi and NCD alumni to continue our service to band programs, not exclusively at colleges and universities. Without strong music education programs (and the ability for all students to access them!), university band programs will suffer. I’m excited about exploring and promoting opportunities for alumni to advocate and/or volunteer for these types of programs, especially those that closely align with the values of our Fraternity."

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. – "I am a NCDAA member living far from my alma mater and far outside of the geographic district. I am hoping that the NCDAA will give me increased opportunity to connect with other alumni in my area (if you’re in the DMV, let me know!)."

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you.  "Check out my organization’s website & Instagram pages:”

• orchkids.org | @bsoorchkids

• Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molliewestbrook/

• Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mocallaghan1

• Follow me on Instagram: @molliewestbrook

Name any other contact information that you are willing to share. “Email me!”

• Work Email: mwestbrook@bsomusic.org

• Personal Email: westbrook.mollie.o@gmail.com

Mollie at the CC Concert.

Alumni Spotlight: Meet Caleb Doerr

CALEB DOERR

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MEET CALEB DOERR

• Home chapter – Zeta Epsilon @ Michigan State University

• Initiation period – Fall 2013

• Graduation date – Fall/Winter 2017

• Major or study concentration – Packaging

• Main Instrument – Saxophone

• Current profession – Packaging Engineer w/ Steelcase, Inc.

• Current city – Madison, AL

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? – "I joined KKPsi in the fall of 2013 after auditioning for the Spartan Marching Band at Michigan State. Following a failed audition, I was looking for an outlet for my musical energies, and a way to progress in my musicality. After one long discussion on my audition and my musical aspirations with the marching band director at the time, I was turned to Isaac Frank, a Brother who shared common ambitions with me in music and life at the university. A few emails later about ensembles, instrument rentals and drum corps, Isaac invited me out to a recruitment night for the Zeta Epsilon Chapter. I was starstruck by the people I met that night, and totally in love with the group from the moment I was welcomed into the room, even it was just a pizza night in a classroom. Looking back, I didn’t have a second thought about saying yes to the invitation to continuing my recruitment, which would launch myself into new musical endeavors while being a Brother for four and half years."

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? – "My sophomore year, I accepted my nomination for the committee chair of our chapter’s Brotherhood Committee. With four other outstanding Brothers, our goal became to enhance the opportunities for the ‘small moments of Brotherhood’ where friendship really seems to be born. Whether these moments came from big events with Tau Beta Sigma, weeknight study and meal sessions, or ‘Date Night’ meetings with our new Prospective Member class, we were inspired by the chapter growth and Brotherly-love that was flowering. Relative to the year previous, my junior year at the university was more self-focused and my fraternal activity took a downward turn while I was working on career goals, my personal mindset and trying to achieve my goals in marching drum corps. So, quite selfishly, I was more focused myself, the chapter atmosphere, and what we were doing for ourselves as a group of people. While strongly reconsidering if I had a place in KKPsi and what the organization really meant to me, I attended meetings and worked on project teams, but felt pretty out of touch with the fraternity. With the support of some great friends, I was able to work myself out of that negative headspace and really reflect on what I was doing for the chapter, what being a Brother meant to me, and more importantly what I was doing for the people around me. I was determined to see how I could affect the culture and community in our group and was elected Chapter President following a surprise nomination in the Spring of 2016. That year, our chapter’s biggest focus turned into overturning a massive debt to a company who helped with a previous chapter fundraiser that failed. The tone that year was a less than comfortable, but it took us turning our focus inward to really see ourselves as a chapter of Brothers to one another, negotiate our weaknesses, and foster them into strengths. We learned more about ‘filling our cup’ as a chapter and pouring outward, than when we tried to pour from ‘empty’."

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. – "Myself and three members of Zeta Epsilon decided to take a trip from Michigan down to Kentucky in my small ’99 Volkswagen Golf for the District’s South Block in 2016. Sleep deprived and buzzing on caffeine, we sat in the workshops provided by district officers at the time and met Brothers we never would have been introduced to outside of that trip. We even got the opportunity to be introduced to the style of marching band music that makes the south so different from military band style. The real gem of that trip was building bonds with the brothers who travelled an odd 800 miles with me…the late night discussions that occurred in that little car are buried somewhere in a junkyard in Michigan now. For good."

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both)  – "KKPsi has helped immensely in both focuses of the real world. Professionally, KKPsi has helped by providing me with the skills to not only lead, but to feel comfortable leading and working through projects – large or small. I’ve found how truly enjoyable it can be working in groups and watching large projects come together. KKPsi provided many opportunities for me to use new tools and resources to get the job done, through upper level contacts, technology and group practices. As I grew older, the real treat for me was assisting in the secondary level of leadership, helping individuals to pursue their strengths, and helping them grow out of their perceived weaknesses. I used this actively in my college job, and still find applications for it in my career today. Personally speaking, KKPsi taught me about personal responsibility to both the chapter and my personal time, and the feelings of others. While managing a team of students in my college job, being a section leader in the marching band, taking classes, and presiding over the chapter, I had to learn how to work with others and find balance for my time and the time of others. There are several moments that stick out to me in my years where, being the “push forward!” personality that I am, my friends and Brothers taught me to sit back, listen, and learn to better reflect on the feelings of my peers. A super simple lesson, but I think many times we become so numb to the problem-solving mindset of college that we can forget about the humanistic perspective. Luckily, I had a mindful and influential chapter surrounding me and continually teaching me."

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - "I’m really looking forward to getting to interact with the numerous alumni Brothers of the NCDAA, whether recent alumni or a few years removed. We all share this great bond of being a Brother and the fraternity has always been inspiring to me because of those bonds, and the experiences, volunteerism, and musicality that result from strong Brotherhood. I hope to see the same from the alumni group and I’m excited to make new friendships with those joining this group with me! I’m definitely hoping to stir up some new projects and adventures while I’m here."

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. – "With all things KKPsi in our focus, I really want to see how adults and recent college graduates are living in the spirit of the chapter. I’ve taken my time after graduation to get settled here in the South and am looking to get involved in my community music scene, volunteering, teaching, and all that comes with it. Is anyone out there up to similar adventures of new places?"

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. – 

1. Connect professionally with me via LinkedIn

2. Add or message me on Facebook

3. Let’s share what we’re working on via Instagram @just_cdoerrable.

4. I’m a bit of a geographical distance, but I love talking about new music, travel adventures, food quests, and whatever projects you all are working on… and dog pictures. I’d be delighted to talk! Know someone in or find yourself in North Alabama/Southern Tennessee - hit me up!

5. Thanks for reading! I’m looking forward to meeting all the alumni Brothers, making new memories, and making this a successful alumni Fraternity group.

Alumni Spotlight: Meet Justin Jensen

Justin Jensen

Alumni Spotlight

MEET JUSTIN JENSEN

• Home chapter – Beta Kappa @ Bowling Green State University

• Initiation period – Spring 2014

• Graduation date – May 2018

• Major or study concentration – Film Production

• Main Instrument – Tuba

• Current profession – Chapter Field Representative w/ Kappa Kappa Psi National Headquarters

• Current city – Stillwater, OK

Why did you join KKPsi or what drew you KKPsi? – "I was originally drawn to KKPsi because people in my section told me that I would be a good fit for an honorary band fraternity which is something that I didn’t think I would be good enough for at the time. When I saw the opportunity to join an organization of people that all loved the same things I did in addition to also bettering the band program it was an easy choice to make."

What positions or responsibilities did you hold in your chapter? – "In my chapter I held the position of Parliamentarian. It was the one position I held within the chapter but I also served as NCD Vice President of Programs."

Name a favorite memory from your Active membership. – "One of my favorite memories would have to be my first National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky in 2015. It was an eye-opening experience to get to see how much the fraternity does on a national level. It gave me perspective on how much we really do for the band program. I also got to meet so many different brothers and sisters that I now have the pleasure of working with today. (Shameless Plug: Go to NatCon 2019 on July 16-20 and celebrate KKPsi’s centennial, it will be really fun!)"

How has KKPsi helped you in the "real world"? (professionally or personally, or both)  – "Currently, it has helped with almost everything as CFR. It has also taught me how I want to present myself as a professional and how to effectively communicate my message to people I talk to whether it be brothers or anyone outside of the organization. It taught me to be passionate about everything that I do."

What are you most looking forward to as a member of the NCDAA? - "I looking forward to getting to know many brothers from the NCD that are still just as passionate about Kappa Kappa Psi as they were when they were an active member."

Name one thing you want to get out of the NCDAA. – "I would want to forge new bonds with alumni that I didn’t have the opportunity to meet while I was Active."

Name any of your personal social media accounts that you would like people to connect with you. – "Add me on Facebook or on Twitter @jstnjensen13."