When you think about it, what better place to return to an in-person Leadership Academy than Oxford? A town so infused with Phi Kappa Tau history that it is almost impossible to leave without a massive boost of Phi Tau pride.

Taking place July 21-24, over 50 emerging undergraduate leaders from chapters across the country descended upon Miami University’s campus. Utilizing campus facilities, primarily the Farmer School of Business as the home base, the new leaders were introduced to the program by Educational Deans Guillermo Flores, Southern Illinois ’08, and Chad Warrick, Akron ’08 as well as a kickoff speech from CEO Tim Hudson, Truman ’97. From there the men were broken into their color groups, led by the programs volunteer leadership coaches representing multiple Phi Kappa Tau chapters and outside organizations and university professionals.

Over the four days the men underwent a leadership transformation by developing a deeper understanding of their leadership styles, growing through teambuilding exercises, and setting tangible action plans for their chapter for when they return in the Fall. Some of the most impactful moments came in the form of the “Brother to Brother” activity where brothers share deep conversations with multiple participants that dive into chapter issues and push brothers to be vulnerable with one another.

Beyond the leadership training, brothers were also given the opportunity interact socially with one another as well as enjoy an evening of fellowship at the Phi Kappa Tau Executive Offices. At the office, the men were given the opportunity to learn about the historic memorabilia in the “Heritage Room,” explore the Centennial Garden, and enjoy s’mores at the circle of warmth – all, of course, resulting in multiple photo opportunities.

“I am often asked why I’m still involved and why do you put all this extra work on yourself,” wrote Education Dean Guillermo Flores in an Instagram post, “It’s simple, undergraduate brothers need the opportunity to connect with each other and challenge the stereotype of being a ‘frat boy.’”

*Brothers enjoying the “Phi Tau Circle”*

Similar positive sentiments were expressed across social media by participating chapters including our newly reestablished Alpha Associate Chapter whose very own Jack Coyle, Miami AM, won one of the three coveted John F. Cosgrove Spirit and Leadership Awards granted to participants who exemplify the spirit leadership. “We [also] would like to thank everyone involved with Leadership Academy” the chapter wrote via Instagram, “We are beyond thankful for the relationships made with the 50+ brothers at the conference from chapters across the nation.” Joseph Falcon, Centre AM and Jackson Morgan, Eastern Kentucky ’21 also received Cosgrove awards in recognition of their exemplary participation in the Academy.

*The passing of the flame at the Candlelight Ceremony*

On the final evening of the program the men were led on a walk through Phi Kappa Tau’s founding locations and took part in the “Legacy Walk,” the traditional and powerful candlelit conclusion to the program. 116 years of brotherhood culminated with the ceremonial singing of the Brotherhood Song, and as is written in the candlelight ceremony, we are confident that the early pioneers of our Fraternity would each be enthusiastic about their presence on that night.