ALPHA KAPPA CRESCENT ALPHA GAMMA RHO FRATERNITY FALL 2014 UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE-KNOXVILLE ALPHA KAPPA CRESCENT, WINNER 2014 AGR CRESCENT HIGH HONOR-SERIES ON THE INSIDE: CHANCELLOR DR. JIMMY CHEEK VISITS AGR On the evening of October 28, 2014, the brothers of Alpha Kappa hosted Chancellor Jimmy Cheek and his wife Ileen, Vice Chancellor Vincent Carilli, Dr. Keith Barber, Tom Looney, Mrs. Newton, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Craig, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Harrison for an evening of food and fellowship at the chapter house. Cheek and friends were very impressed with the involvement that the brothers at Alpha Kappa are involved with. Chancellor Cheek was also on the front lawn here at 1840 for the first annual Boys and Girls Club Trick-or-Treat on Fraternity Park. The house was decorated for the event beforehand and many brothers “dressed up” for the event along with the ladies of Alpha Omicron Phi to host the trickor-treat event. We enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by Kitchen Steward Beech and Norman Willis. We plan on having more evenings of food and fellowship in the future with Cheek and other faculty here at 1840. Fraternally, Samuel T. Koeshall, VNR-Alumni Relations 2014 UT HOMECOMING REPORT On Saturday Oct. 11 2014 the University of Tennessee Volunteers had an impressive and expected game in Neyland Stadium. The Volunteers beat the Chattanooga Mocs 45 – 10 which provided for some hope that UT is back on the rise to dominance. Prior to Saturday’s game the actives of Alpha Kappa were busy competing in the All-Campus Events Homecoming Challenge. I am happy to report that Alpha Gamma Rho won three first place trophies total this year but disappointedly it was not enough to pull up with the overall 1st place in the competition. We finished 2nd place within a 510 point margin which was the closest I have seen in my four years at the University of Tennessee. This year we partnered with the lovely ladies of Alpha Omicron Pi under the theme of “Tennessee Traditions” I was pleased to lead the Homecoming Committee this year, and with the dedicated work of many brothers, Alpha Kappa was well represented to the Volunteer community. (CONT. Page 2) WINTER RUSH 7 GRADUATE NEW EXEC OFFICERS REPORTS MEMBERS DEANS LIST AGRs ON CAMPUS ALUMNI NEWS AGR ALUMNI DINNER CHAPTER & HOUSE UPDATES LETTER OF THANKS In June of 2002 Dan Culp called and invited me to lunch which, by the way, I paid for. He told me that I was his replacement as chapter adviser and chief of maintenance. We then walked through the house with him pointing out jobs which had to be done. Before leaving, he handed me a pile of various documents and directions needed to do maintenance. I drove home wondering how he had unloaded that job on to me. Normal procedures established by National were completely ignored and there was no action taken by the alumni board. Little did I know that Dan had done me a great favor. That fall Bobby Simpson and Charlie Hall became my mentors and pointed me in positive directions. I owe much to both of them. Not long afterward, Robert Elliott, then Noble Ruler, called with a major problem which we rapidly corrected. From that incident, I learned we had active leadership with character and the guts to stand tall. Later both Charlie and Bobby retired with Charlie moving to Texas. Fortunately, Bobby stayed nearby and has generously continued as my mentor. Since that time, chapter leadership has continually impressed me with integrity and sound moral values. Some years have been (CONT Page 9 ) AGR GRADUATES EIGHT DECEMBER 2014 Eight Alpha Kappa brothers graduated in December from UT. We congratulate them on their hard work and wish them good fortune in the future. These eight new alumni are highlighted below: Dustin Kendall (AKSN-1099) graduated with a degree in Supply Chain Management with a collateral in international business. Dustin plans on going to work with Georgia Pacific as a procurement specialist in Tallahassee, Florida. Dustin served as VNR Activities and assistant social chairman during his time at Alpha Kappa. Dustin has been involved with the Council of Supply Chain Management specialists and FBLA while at the University of Tennessee pursuing his undergraduate degree. Matthew McDurmon (AKSN-1100) graduated with a degree in Food Science and Technology with a pre-professional concentration. Matthew plans on returning home to begin a job as full-time Physical Therapist technician until beginning Physical Therapy school at either UT Memphis or ETSU. Matthew currently works for the UT Football Sports Medicine team as a Sports Medicine Student Assistant where he attends games and practices as he serves as a physical therapist for the players. Hayden Kelly (AKSN-1105) graduated with a degree in Food & Ag Business. Hayden has accepted a position with Bunge as a management trainee. He is currently located in the Missouri Bootheel. Hayden has been involved in a leadership positions at Alpha Kappa by serving as the 2011 Assistant Recruitment Chair. He has also been involved with organizations on campus such as UT Ducks Unlimited and the Agriculture Business club. Hayden will also be the first person in his family to graduate from the University of Tennessee. Steven Martin (AKSN-1107) graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering, Steven will be moving to Nashville to begin a career with Professional Service Industries starting as a graduate engineer. Steven plans to continue his education during employment to obtain his Mas- HOMECOMING (cont. Page 1) ters degree and an MBA. Steven has been involved largely involved with happenings at Alpha Kappa while serving as VNR Scholarship, Standards Board, and also receiving the New Member of the year award. Steven has also been very involved on campus with ACE, IFC, and the American Society of Engineers. Andrew Robinson (AKSN-1116) graduated with a degree in Supply Chain Management, Andrew plans on participating in a coop with Georgia Pacific. Andrew has been very involved with different organizations all around campus with the Phi Sigma Theta Honor Society, FBLA, NAMA, Ag Econ Club, and UT Athletic Marketing team manager. Andrew has also worked for the UT Ground Crew. Joe Shapiro (AKSN-1112) graduated with a degree in Supply Chain Management, Joe plans on going to pursue a career with JB Hunt serving as an Operations Supervisor. On campus, Joe has been involved with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. Joe has also been very successful athletically at Alpha Kappa as he has been the SAE Boxing Champion for the past three years. Christian Greene (AKSN-1115) graduated with degree in Sports Management, Christian plans to take little time to see some of the country before pursuing a career in his field of interest. Christian has interned for the University of Tennessee Director of Baseball operations and also worked for the University grounds crew. Michael Pitts(1132) graduated with a degree in Communication Studies, Michael will be a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual. During his undergraduate career here at Alpha Kappa, Michael served as VNR Activities. UT CONTRIBUTIONS: This year’s events began with the new competition "Tower of Cans" If you are an annual contributor to UT, please send your which involved a team of four guys and four girls stackchecks to: ing non-perishable cans and our men and women took Thomas K. Looney home first place during the inaugural event. During the Director of Development rest of the week we competed in Large Float, Large University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Banner, Lawn and Window Display, Bed Race, Anything 110 Morgan Hall, 2621 Morgan Circle Goes, and Smokey’s Howl. Knoxville, TN 37996-4502 As I watched the scores go across the JumboPlease identify on your check how you wish for your funds tron during the game, I had high hopes to see us placing to be allocated. Again, thank you for your gifts to AGR. You first in the large events, but this did not add up to a 1st are helping AGR keep its promise, "To Make Better Men". overall finish. Although we did not win 1st overall, we were pleased with finishing first in Large Float (Norman said it was the best he had seen in his years as AGR cook), Tower of Cans, and the Bed Race. After the additions to different events this year, we are looking forward to bringing that 1st place trophy back to 1840 next year! We are very excited to be working with the ladies of Alpha Chi Omega next fall, and we hope to see you come out to support our efforts in the Homecoming challenge this next season. Fraternally, Robbie Gipson (AKSN 1130), Homecoming Chairman WINTER 2015 RUSH NETS 7 BROTHERS Winter Rush 2015 was again a successWINTER 2015 ful recruitment for Alpha Gamma Rho at NEW GUYS UT. Seven young men were extended Front Row L-R: bids following Q/C interviews of 20 young Zach Baker, men. Aaron Fly, Dane Brunson and the chapter did anJ.R. Clay, other excellent job of recruiting and Peyton Sosebee screening quality young men. Back L-R: The chapter continues to look for quality Caleb Arp, and interested UTK students for memberJosh Bickel, ship and the chapter places a great deal of William Hickman emphasis on recruitment, not only during formal Rush but also during the semester. Alpha Kappa’s seven new brothers are: Zack Baker, AKSN-1231, Lebanon, TN, Sports Management Josh Bickel, AKSN-1232, Butonsville, MD, Construction Science Aaron Fly, AKSN-1233, Nolensville, TN, Animal Science William Hickman, AKSN-1234, Arlington, TN, Wildlife & Fisheries Caleb Arp, AKSN-1235, Loudon, TN, Architecture J. R. Clay, AKSN-1236, Pelham, TN, Plant and Soil Science Peyton Sosebee, AKSN-1237, Rock Hill, S.C., Animal Science/Pre-Vet Before we know it, Fall Rush will upon us. If you know of any young men who have been accepted to UT for the Fall Semester, please contact Dane Brunson. His cell number is 1-865-654-0784 and his email address is: [email protected]. Your help in recruitment is always wanted and appreciated. AGR BBQ CONTEST APRIL 17-18, 2015 Mark your calendars for the upcoming AGR National BBQ Competition on April 17-18h at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon, TN. You can come for the Saturday dinner and social; field a team in the BBQ competition; or just come out for the weekend events. We expect greater than 20 undergraduate and alumni teams to compete in the event. Over $1,800 in prize money and trophies will be presented to the outstanding competitors in pork, ribs, chicken, steak and overall categories. Team applications are currently being submitted, and you can download the registration form at www.agrbbq.com. Teams are only $250 (increases to $350 after March 1st). You can also contact Event Co-Chairmen Chad Bradshaw (615-708-8307) or Robert Elliott (865-207-5513), or you can e-mail [email protected]. This event is jointly hosted by the Central TN AGR Alumni Chapter and the seven local AGR chapters in Tennessee and Kentucky. Volunteers are needed as well as table hosts and sponsors. 2015 ALPHA KAPPA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 2015 Executive Council, pictured L-R, Front: Spencer Jones, Percy McReynolds, Conner Villas, Dane Brunson, Blake French. Back: Forrest Duncan, Trent Bibee, Samuel Koeshall, John Edwards Noble Ruler: Connor Villas (AKSN 1146), Communications and Political Science major, Charlotte, NC VNR- Membership: Spencer Jones (AKSN 1183), Business Management major, Franklin, TN VNR- Alumni Relations: Samuel Koeshall (AKSN 1190), Plant Science major, Philadelphia, TN VNR- Planning: Trent Bibee (AKSN1148), Business Management major, Adams, TN VNR- Finance: Forrest Duncan (AKSN 1157), Agriculture Business major, Decherd, TN VNR- Recruitment: Dane Brunson (AKSN 1172), Kinesiology major, Seymour, TN VNR- Activities: Percy McReynolds (AKSN 1174), Landscape Design (Plant Science) major, Knoxville, TN VNR- Management & Operations: John Edwards (AKSN 1192), Animal Science major, Speedwell, TN VNR- Scholarship: Blake French (AKSN 1182), Kinesiology major, Paris, TN 2015 CHAPTER OFFICERS REPORTS NOBLE RULER’S REPORT VNR-ALUMNI REPORT Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho, my name is Connor Villas, and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Noble Ruler for the 2015. As AKSN 1146, this past year I served as the recruitment chair, and am very eager to begin this year with my new executive council. I believe that Alpha Gamma Rho has a rich history of excellence and strong bonds embedded deep with the campus of Tennessee. I am a junior double major- would never be a negative remark ing in Communication Studies and made about fraternities at Tennessee. This was a fun night and we also held Political Science, with a minor in trick or treating in Fraternity Park for business. After my time is up at the Boys and Girls club of the Knoxville Tennessee, I plan to stay in the community. We had a great time with southeast and attend law school. face painting and some very interesting This will be my third year in our costumes. AOPi, Delta Zeta and Zeta home at 1840 and many are shocked I haven’t pulled my hair out Tau Alpha all helped out and we had yet. The truth is, I would not have it the best turnout around the row. This was an amazing tradition that was set any other way than living in the AGR house surrounded by the ex- and we look forward to next year’s Haltraordinary group of men that make loween. Speaking of traditions, for the final up the active Alpha Kappa chapter. home game of the season we wanted Fall 2014 semester was a great to do something with our neighbors Phi semester and a lot happened. We Gamma Delta (FIJI). We and FIJI held were able to initiate 22 new brotha split tailgate with a DJ and grilling ers into our beloved chapter and I out. It was a great turn out and we look can honestly say that they are exforward to future events with FIJI this actly what we want in AGR. These upcoming semester. Christmas formal high caliber men are an impressive just passed and it was a great time. group and are holding themselves Norman did a great job setting up and to the highest standard around our new VNR-Activities, Percy campus. As many of you know, in McReynolds impressed all with his first October we held homecoming against UTC and aside from a win- event of his term. This semester will be a big one for ning football game, we placed secAlpha Kappa. Our new VNRond in homecoming with the lovely Recruitment, Dane Brunson will be ladies of Alpha Omicron Pi. It was leading us through rush and we look great to see so many alumni around forward to finding the men that we bethe house this past football season lieve will not only fit into our chapter and be on the lookout for an outbut, will be of value to Alpha Gamma reach from our VNR-Alumni RelaRho. We have elections coming up for tions, Samuel Koeshall. Our execusecondary officers and of course Water tive council has been working diliWars is already in our sights. gently to implement new activities Our spring semester will continue to and events that will give the active hold the traditions like Cabin Brotherchapter to bond more often with our hood and Pond Brotherhood as well as alumni. We believe this will be a adding new events to strengthen the great opportunity for the alumni to bond at AGR. We are planning on reget to know the actives of a personvising our Big Brother Program and al level. with these new events we will continue This past semester AGR hosted to have the best brotherhood at Tena dinner for Chancellor Cheek, othnessee thanks to our new VNRer University faculty, and our FraterMembership Development, Spencer nity Park police officers to attend. Jones. The mentor program was very There were many other administrasuccessful and we have just paired our tors in attendance and this was a second round partners together. wonderful chance to bond with them I believe that all will be surprised and have a great night. The feedwith the new look of our chapter room back that we received was basically thanks to the new VNR-Operations, that if all fraternities presented John Edwards. We will be looking at a themselves and upheld the reputahigher GPA this semester and are imtion that AGR does then there This year, Alpha Kappa is fortunate to have four excellent young men serving in leadership positions on the Interfraternity Council for this upcoming year. Connor Villas (AKSN 1146) will be serving as Vice President of Public Relations and Collin Gatlin (AKSN 1167) will be serving as Vice President of Recruitment on IFC executive council. Also, Spencer Jones (AKSN 1183) will be serving as Philanthropy Director and Will Napier (AKSN 1221) will be serving as Programming Director as secondary officers for IFC. These brothers will be playing an important part in the continual development of Fraternity life around campus and the growth of AGR and other fraternities. Fraternally, Samuel T. Koeshall VNR-Alumni Relations VNR-FINANCE REPORT As the treasurer for our chapter, it is my duty to be the book keeper for our Fraternity and handle all of the financial matters associated with our chapter. I had the honor of being recently elected to serve as Finance Chair for the upcoming year. I am proud to say that we had a great fall semester and that we had no problems achieving financial success. Our chapter currently has $9,000in our checking account going into Christmas break. Our chapter has been fortunate enough to be able to have $5,000 in a savings account which will be held on to until proper allocation is needed. We still have a few receivables which are being aggressively pursued for collection by the chapter. Our chapter has been able to pay all payables in a timely manner and is currently in good standing financially with vendors and our National Headquarters. I look forward to a great spring semester to come. Fraternally, Forrest Duncan VNR-Finance, AKSN 1157 plementing new policies and approaches lead by our new VNR-Scholarship, Blake French. On February 20th, we will be attending the national convention in Chicago, IL. We look forward to a great year. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. RipRam. Fraternally, Connor Villas AKSN 1146 AGR ON CAMPUS AKSN 1109 Kevin Coggin: Marketing and Supply Chain Management Alumni Advisory Board, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, International Freshman U.T. Guide/Mentor AKSN 1110 Chris Jones: Greek Leadership Initiative, Communications Club AKSN 1111 Ian White: Clinic Vols- Student Nursing Assistant AKSN 1119 Joe Snyder: Chancellors Honors Program, Welcome Week Leader AKSN 1123 Reed Wolfe: Leader of Community Service Program for World’s Fair Park AKSN 1124 Tyler Fuqua: Smokey’s Handler, Student Assistant - Office of Risk Mgmt. AKSN 1126 Evan Smith: IFC President, Orientation Leader, UTK Ambassador, SGA- Government Affairs Committee Emerging Leaders, College Republicans, Baker Center for Public Policy, SGA Campaign Manager, Greek Judicial Committee AKSN 1129 Evan Beech: Ducks Unlimited Chapter AKSN 1130 Robbie Gipson: Construction Science Club President AKSN 1134 Josh Thompson: Smokey’s Handler, Holden Key International Honors Society, Student Ambassador AKSN 1135 Douglas Wong: Chancellors Honors Program AKSN 1138 Nick Nadeau: Construction Science Club Vice President, AGC Student Chapter AKSN 1139 Elliott Reynolds: Ag. Business Club AKSN 1145 Hayden Bliss: Bush Hog Team Captain AKSN 1146 Connor Villas: IFC Vice President Public Relations, Advertising Club, Best Buddies Program, Communications study club, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, Public Relations Student Society of America AKSN 1147 Brandon Adkins: Ag. Business Club AKSN 1148 Trent Bisbee: All Campus Events Director AKSN 1157 Forrest Duncan: Ag Business Club, NAMA Team, CASNR Ambassador, SGA Academic Affairs Director, AKSN 1162 Josh Schueller: Alpha Epsilon Delta Member AKSN 1164 Sheridan Brewer: Honors Council Junior Representative, Honors Ambassador AKSN 1165 Reid McCullough: Best Buddies Program AKSN 1167 Collin Gatlin: IFC Vice President of Recruitment, Student Director of New Student and Family Affairs AKSN 1170 Will Freeman: CASNR Ambassador, CASNR Representative for Student Senate AKSN 1173 Cole Cowley: UTK Rodeo Team AKSN 1174 Percy McReynolds: Bridge Advisory Board/President AKSN 1175 Tanner Pritchett: Farm Credit Scholar, Agri-Business Club, President of Plowing Team AKSN 1177 Phil Bagsby: Unite Member AKSN 1183 Spencer Jones: IFC Director of Philanthropy AKSN 1190 Samuel Koeshall: Collegiate 4-H, CASNR Ambassador, Farm Credit Scholar AKSN 1192 John Edwards: Collegiate FFA, Collegiate 4-H, Block and Bridle AKSN 1194 Landon Donkin: Construction Science club, Tau Sigma Honor Society AKSN 1197 Jared Bruhin: Smokey’s Handler, SGA Ag Campus Senator, Farm Credit Scholar AKSN 1203 Zack Duncan: College Republicans AKSN 1221 Will Napier: IFC Programming Director MY YEAR AS NATIONAL FFA SECRETARY THIRD GENERATION AGR For the past year, I served the National Edward Moore, AH-1548, son of FFA organization as the National FFA SecJohn Moore, AKSN-528, was initiated retary with a six man FFA National officer inot Alpha Eta Chapter of AGR at the team that served all 50 United States of University of Georgia last fall. EdAmerica, Japan, the Virgin Islands, and ward is a third generation AGR, folPuerto Rico. We flew over 120,000 miles, lowing in the footsteps of his late visited countless FFA chapters around the grandfather, Ed Moore, Alpha Iotaworld, and I was able to visit many Alpha 133, at the University of Arkansas. Gamma Rho chapters across the nation as I served the NatioEdward also has two uncles who are AGRs at AUT: nal FFA organization. My role as a National FFA secretary was George Moore, AKSN-461, and Frank Moore, AKSNto serve the local FFA members while also promoting the food 508. and fiber industry and agriculture education. Through out my Edward’s father, Jim, proudly pinned Ed’s AGR pin year serving as an officer I have visited many places, met peoon Edward at Alpha Eta’s initiation ceremony last Fall. ple from all walks of life, and helped promote the agriculture Edward is a double major in Animal Science aqnd industry to the best of my ability while portraying the values and Food Science with plans to work in the red meat indusqualities of Alpha Gamma Rho. It was an honor to serve the try upon graduation. industry I’m passionate about and the brotherhood to which I belong. 2015 UT HOMECOMING NOV. 14, 2015 Fraternally, Mitch Baker AKSN-1160 UT vs NORTH TEXAS AGR 2015 FARM CREDIT SCHOLARS This year’s class of Farm Credit Scholars includes two AGR men, Samuel Koeshall (AKSN 1190) from Philadelphia, TN; and Jared Bruhin (AKSN 1197) from Sevierville, TN. Each Fall semester, six Farm Credit Scholars will be selected to enter the program which includes customized curricula that includes trips to New York City and Washington D.C. while completing specially designed coursework, mentoring opportunity’s, and a guaranteed Farm Credit Internship. In addition to the coursework and trips, a renewable $2,000 scholarship will be awarded to the 6 Farm Credit Scholars. Pictured above L-R, Sam and Jared. They join Forrest Duncan, AKSN-1157, Billy Rochelle, AKSN-1158, and Tanner Prichett , AKSN-1175, who are also Farm Credit Scholars at UT. TENNESSEE FARMERS COOP SCHOLARSHIP WINNER Matthew Harlan, AKSN-1219, an Animal Science major from Jackson, TN has been named a Tennessee Farmers Cooperative Scholarship winner for 2015. AGR MEMBERSHIP ROSTER WINTER 2014 AKSN-1109 Kevin Coggin; Pulaski, TN; Logistics AKSN-1110 Chris Jones; Pulaski, TN; Communication Studies AKSN-1111 Ian White; Pulaski, TN; Nursing AKSN-1117 Hubert White; Pulaski, TN; Advertising AKSN-1119 Joseph Snyder; Seymour, TN; Marketing AKSN-1123 Reed Wolfe; Manchester, TN; History/Secondary Education AKSN-1124 Tyler Fuqua; Joelton, TN; Supply Chain Management AKSN-1126 Evan Smith; Paris, TN; Accounting AKSN-1129 Evan Beech; Pulaski, TN; Political Science AKSN-1130 Robbie Gipson; Manchester, TN; Construction Science AKSN-1134 Josh Thompson; Soddy Daisy, TN; English/Math/Secondary Ed. AKSN-1135 Douglas Wong; Pulaski, TN; Advertising AKSN-1138 Nick Nadeau; Hillsboro, TN; Construction Science AKSN-1139 Elliott Reynolds; Hillsboro, TN; Plant Science AKSN-1140 Will Seeley; Pleasant View, TN; Food Science AKSN-1142 Jonathan Pulley; Dallas, GA; Sports Journalism AKSN-1144 Ethan Massaro; Maryville, TN; Accounting AKSN-1145 Hayden Bliss; Soddy Daisy, TN; Economics AKSN-1146 Connor Villas; Charlotte, NC; Communications &Political Science AKSN-1147 Brandon Adkins; Stroudsville, TN; Accounting AKSN-1148 Trent Bibee; Cedar Hill, TN; Business Management AKSN-1151 Isaac Britt; Columbia, TN; Construction Science AKSN-1152 Alex Killebrew; Atlanta, GA; Logistics AKSN-1153 Jay Robinson; Colorado Springs, CO; Ag Leadership AKSN-1155 Jake Sproul; Santa Fe, TN; Supply Chain Management AKSN-1157 Forrest Duncan; Decherd, TN; Food & Agriculture Business AKSN-1158 Billy Rochelle; Nunnelly, TN; Food & Agriculture Business AKSN-1159 Corey Powell; Loudon, TN; Turfgrass Management AKSN-1160 Mitch Baker; Cookeville, TN; Ag Communications AKSN-1162 Josh Schueller; Bethel Springs, TN; Microbiology AKSN-1163 Andy Hickman; Lafollette, TN; Finance AKSN-1164 Sheridan Brewer; Hohenwald, TN; Microbiology AKSN-1165 Reid McCullough; Hendersonville, TN; Biochemical, Cellular & Molecular Biology AKSN-1167 Collin Gatlin; Mt Juliet, TN; Undecided AKSN-1168 Christian Burfield; Mt Juliet, TN; Food & Agriculture Business AKSN-1169 Bryan Agee; Mt Juliet, TN; Civil Engineering AKSN-1170 Will Freeman; Portland, TN; Ag Communications AKSN-1171 Andrew Howe; Mt. Juliet, TN; Supply Chain Management AKSN-1172 Dane Brunson; Seymour, TN; Kinesiology AKSN-1173 Cole Cowley; Fayetteville, TN; Undecided AKSN-1174 Percy McReynolds; Knoxville, TN; Landscape Design AKSN-1175 Tanner Pritchett; Pleasant View, TN; Food & Agriculture Business. AKSN-1176 Emory Chaple; Tampa, FL; Economics AKSN-1177 Phil Bagsby; Franklin, TN; Plant Science AKSN-1178 Jonah Smith; Franklin, TN; Food & Agriculture Business AKSN-1179 Evan Willis; Hillsboro, TN; Plant Science AKSN-1180 Casey Goins; Hendersonville, TN; Food & Agriculture Business AKSN-1181 Oscar Riley-Smith; Oundle, England; Sports Management AKSN-1182 Blake French; Paris, TN; Finance AKSN-1183 Spencer Jones; Franklin, TN; Finance AKSN-1184 Casey Anderson; Thompson Station, TN; Civil Engineering AKSN-1185 Austin Lockhart; Brentwood, TN; Communications AKSN-1186 Santiago Arbelaez; Mount Juliet, TN; Undecided AKSN-1187 Ben Jelks; Paris, TN; Finance AKSN-1189 Samuel Koeshall; Philadelphia, TN; Plant Science AKSN-1190 Anderson Taylor; Paris, TN; Computer Science AKSN-1191 John Edwards; Speedwell, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1192 Colton Smith; McNairy, TN; Ag Business AKSN-1193 Landon Donkin; Springfield, TN; Construction Science AKSN-1194 Andrew Dulac; Queenstown, MD; Animal Science AGR MEMBERSHIP ROSTER WINTER AKSN-1194 Andrew Dulac; Queenstown, MD; Animal Science AKSN-1195 Robin Ferguson; Fort Mill, SC; Logistics AKSN-1196 Jared Bruhin; Sevierville, TN; Animal Science. AKSN-1197 Andrew Futrell; Harriman, TN; Civil Engineering AKSN-1198 Matthew Shih; Knoxville, TN; Food Science AKSN-1199 Vincent Ruggeri; Westchester, PA; Nat. Resources/Environ Econ. AKSN-1200 Zach Fox; Knoxville, TN; Plant & Soil Sciences AKSN-1201 Matt Hotsinpiller; Mt. Juliet, TN; Communications AKSN-1202 Zack Duncan; Mt. Juliet, TN; Political Science AKSN-1203 Andrew Morris; Lexington, TN; Plant Sciences AKSN-1204 Chase McGhee; Sevierville, TN; Supply Chain Management AKSN-1208 Daniel Patrick; Sevierville, TN; Political Science AKSN-1209 Kevin Adkins; Stroudsville, TN; Food & Ag Business AKSN-1210 Matthew Culley; Paris, TN; Biology AKSN-1211 Ryan Lewis; Mt. Juliet, TN; Undecided AKSN-1212 Matthew Edmonds; Bolivar, TN; Kinesiology AKSN-1213 Connor Fuqua; Joelton, TN; Accounting AKSN-1214 Caleb Gibson; Sneedville, TN; Accounting AKSN-1215 Hunter Jones; Lafayette, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1216 Taylor Galloway; Crossville, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1217 Hayden Chaple; Lebanon, TN; Psychology AKSN-1218 Buford McMasters; Pulaski, TN; Nuclear Engineering AKSN-1219 Matthew Harlan; Jackson, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1220 Jonathan Ray; Knoxville, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1221 Will Napier, Loudon, TN; Animal Science AKSN-1222 Jack Pedigo, Lewes, DE; Ag Business AKSN-1223 Wheeler McCulloch; Fayetteville, TN; Food and Ag Business AKSN-1224 Cameron Greene; Brentwood, TN; Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering AKSN-1225 Eric Qualkenbush; Brentwood, TN; Biology AKSN-1226 Mason Hodge; Sevierville, TN; Civil Engineering AKSN-1227 Tomas Poveda; Collierville, TN; Food & Ag Business AKSN-1228 Nick Baker; Baxter, TN; Ag Communications AKSN-1229 Ryan Pickett, Pulaski, TN; Kinesiology AKSN-1230 Thomas Lochridge; Pulaski, TN; Mechanical Engineering AKSN-1231 Zack Baker, Lebanon, TN, Sports Management AKSN-1232 Josh Bickel, Butonsville, MD, Construction Science AKSN-1233 Aaron Fly, Nolensville, TN, Animal Science AKSN-1234 William Hickman, Arlington, TN, Wildlife & Fisheries AKSN-1235 Caleb Arp, Loudon, TN, Architecture AKSN-1236 J. R. Clay, Pelham, TN, Plant and Soil Science AKSN-1237 Peyton Sosebee, Rock Hill, S.C., Animal Science/Pre-Vet WATER WARS APRIL 10-11, 2015 AGR 2015 IFC OFFICERS This year, Alpha Kappa is fortunate to have four excellent young men serving in leadership positions on the Interfraternity Council for this upcoming year. Connor Villas (AKSN 1146) will be serving as Vice President of Public Relations and Collin Gatlin (AKSN 1167) will be serving as Vice President of Recruitment on IFC executive council. Also, Spencer Jones (AKSN 1183) will be serving as Philanthropy Director and Will Napier (AKSN Pictured L-R: Will Napier, Conner 1221) will be serving as Programming Villas, Colin Gatlin, Spencer Jones Director as secondary officers for IFC. These brothers will be playing an important part in the continual development of Fraternity life around campus and the growth of AGR and other fraternities. 16 AGRs MAKE DEANS LISTS Alpha Gamma Rho is proud that 16 of its members were named to the UT's Dean's List for the Fall Semester 201 AGR’s GPA for Fall 2014 was 2.86. These brothers are: Summa Cum Laude: GPA: 3.80-4.00 Sheridan Brewer, Hohenwald, TN. Microbiology Conner Fuqua, Joelton, TN., Accounting Matthew McDurmon, Food Science and Tech., Paris, TN. Billy Rochelle, Food & Ag Business, Nunnelly, TN. Magna Cum Laude: GPA 3.65-3.79 Forrest Duncan, Food & Ag Business, Decherd, TN. Andrew Morris, Lexington, TN, Plant & Soil Sciences Eric Qualkenbush, Brentwood, TN, Biology Josh Schueller, Selmer, TN., Microbiology Colton Smith, McNairy, TN, Food and Ag Business Evan Smith, Paris, TN, Accounting Cum Laude: GPA: 3.50-3.64 Hayden Chaple, Lebanon, TN, Psychology Matthew Harlan, Jackson, TN, Animal Science Stephen Martin, Civil Engineering, Seymour, TN. Ethan Massaro, Maryville, TN, Accounting Joe Shapiro, Columbia, TN, Supply Chain Management Jake Sproul, Saate Fe, TN, Supply Chain Management CHAPTER ADVISORS REPORT The Alpha Kappa Chapter had an exciting Fall semester with twenty-two new initiates. This outstanding group learned much about AGR and actively participated in house and campus activities. In October the members hosted a dinner for Chancellor Cheek, Vice Chancellor Vincent Carilli and other special guests. The event was enjoyed by everyone. Members were greatly honored to host these Joe Harrison guests. Homecoming was a huge event this year. The members were proud to have received second place overall in the homecoming activities and are aiming for first place next year. Officer elections were held in November and again the undergraduates have chosen a worDoug Craig thy group of chapter leaders. AGR had the seventh highest average GPA of seventeen fraternities at 2.86. The members will be working hard in the Spring semester to improve their standing. House maintenance expenses were below the $18,000 Tom Looney budget with no major house expense. GOAN HONORED BY UT With a theme of “Brag About Ag,” the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture did some bragging about some of its own this past weekend – as well as honoring some of Tennessee’s best farmers. UTIA presented several awards at its “Ag Day” celebration this Saturday, and even managed to keep the top honor a secret from the winner. Former UT Extension poultry specialist Dr. Charlie Goan, AKSN-220, admits he was surprised to hear his name called when the Institute announced its Meritorious Service Award winner for 2014. The award recognizes distinguished friends and supporters who have been instrumental to the success of UTIA programs. “It was a surprise, definitely so,” Goan said. “It made me reflect back on the many years I’ve had here.” UTIA has been part of Charlie’s life since he was a freshman here in 1961. He earned bachelors and masters degrees from UTIA, and then his doctorate from Michigan State. He came back to UT Extension, and served as a poultry specialist until 2002. The following year he was named department head for Food Science and Technology, and also served as interim dean for UT Extension and interim director for the East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. Charlie served as a chapter advisor to Alpha Gamma Rho for many, many years. ALUMNI UPDATES David R. Reed, is Vice President for Planned Giving & Development at United Methodist Foundation for the Memphis and Tennessee Conferences. David was initiated into AGR at UTM and transferred to UTK, graduating from UTK in December 1969. Ken Alley, AKSN-296, was elected as a city Alderman and Vice Mayor for Crab Orchard, TN. Joe Huffine, AKSN-682, has been promoted to Farm, Home, & Fleet Division Manager Tennessee Farmers Cooperative. Robert Elliott, AKSN-922, has accept a position with Precision Agriculture Specialist, Reliance Ag. LLC in Robertson County, TN. Dustin Click, AKSN-985, has opened up his own law firm in Greenville, TN. He is a graduate of the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis. Michael Millraney, AKSN-1013, is District Manager - Manchester at Duck River EMC in Manchester, TN. Kyle Harlan, AKSN-1021, has accepted a position with State Farm Insurance in Germantown, Tennessee. Caleb Barron, AKSN-1023, has joined the Tennessee Dept of Revenue in Nashville as an attorney beginning in September 2014. Caleb is a 2013 graduate of the UT College of Law. Drew Patrick, AKSN-1051, is a Project Engineer at Batten Shaw, Inc. in Murfreesboro, TN Ben Koch, AKSN-1108, is an Implementation Specialist with PerfectServe, Inc in Knoxville. AG R A LU M N I DINNER March 28, 2015 GREEN MEADOWS COUNTRY CLUB Social Hour 6 PM; Dinner 7 PM RESERVATIONS: JOE HARRISON 1-865-675-3518 or [email protected] Cost $33 beef or chicken. Reservations deadline March 25. ALUMNI PRESIDENT’S REPORT Founder’s/Parent’s day banquet will be on Sunday 29 March this year. Joe Harrison will host a dinner at his country club (Green Meadows) in Maryville on Saturday night 28 Jan. The board/member meeting will be held in the Plant Science building two (2) hours prior to the banquet, which is planned for 12:30 Eastern time. We will post the room number for the meeting of 29 March on the entrance doors. Hope to see you there. We will have an alumni/undergraduate work day on 28 March also. This has been a very successful event in the past. Not as much for the work that gets done but the bonding of the undergraduates with the alumni. We will start at 9:00 AM and finish by 4:00 PM. report. We voted to continue working with Pennington & We will furnish pizza at noon so we can sit with the undergraduates and tell old stories as well as listen to the under- Company as we consider our options. This year has seen a tremendous improvement with the graduates concerns. If you are coming to Knoxville for founder’s day and arrive Saturday, please stop by. All local police presents on Fraternity Row. We have a dedicated police officer who works with the undergraduates and alumni are welcome also. We will not put a paint brush in uses common sense instead of a confrontational attitude. your hands. Since homecoming we have been very busy working with The university got hit fairly hard for last year’s trial of poUT and an architectural firm on possible solutions to address lice tactics. However, we now have a mandate to have a the housing concerns mentioned in Doug’s & my report earli- house director and a place for this individual by 1 Aug 15. er in this newsletter. The Alumni board met at the house on We are in the process of looking at using the old house mother’s room for this individual. Still lots of issues to be 31 Jan with 11 board members present and we received feedback from a consulting firm (Pennington & Company) on settled with UT but the one thing for sure is, that it will cost us. possible alumni support for those housing changes. We Fraternally, Ken Alley, AKSN-296 absolutely have a very loyal alumni base as proved in the JOE HARRISON (Cont. PAGE 1) been more positive than others. Yet, none have been negative. Every Noble ruler has lead in his own way. House managers have worked cooperatively and made maintenance much easier. They have been team players and dedicated to the chapter. During these twelve years, we have I recently told Doug experiCraig that although officially enced a few tough situaretired, I have not yet died tions. In every case, the and plan to remain active. chapter leadership has tak- With Doug, Tom Looney and en the high road and corBond Jones as leaders, the rected the problem. chapter has a very bright The national trend is to future. AGR is the most enblame most campus prob- vied fraternity on this camlems on fraternities, unfor- pus. Our undergraduates tunately far too many frater- are leader in practically evenities have earned this sta- ry major organization on tus. Alpha Kappa, since campus and the chapter being founded in 1951, has GPA is among the highest. never been subject to seAfter twelve years with near vere disciplinary action from daily chapter involvement, I the University. Our young am convinced that our inmen are gentlemen. A few vestment in Alpha Kappa years back, one of our has and will continue to live members lost control and up to our motto of building did a no-no. He apologized better men. These men have to the chapter, turned him- contributed to our state, our self in to the University and industry and our nation. In took his punishment. He conclusion; afterward developed into a I AM PROUD TO BE AN strong chapter leader and AGR FROM ALPHA KAPan officer. Adversity breeds PA CHAPTER. opportunity. Joe Harrison AKSN-111 IN MEMORIAL FORREST ‘TONY’ WILSON, AKSN-47, age 85, passed away on December 21, 2014. Tony served at AK Noble Ruler in 1952/53. He graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Bachelor’s Degree in in Agriculture Education and a Master's Degree in Horticulture from Tennessee State. He also worked for Metro Nashville Schools and the Tennessee Department of Education in Vocational Education Administration. Mr. Wilson proudly served his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army. DR. CARLOS WEBB AKSN-190 - age 76, of Knoxville, passed away Friday, August 29, 2014, at Broward Health North Hospital, Deerfield Beach, Florida, from complications of a stroke with his wife at his side. He received bachelor of science and master of science degrees in animal science from the University of Tennessee and a doctorate of veterinary medicine (DVM) from Auburn University. He belonged to Alpha Gamma Rho and Omega Tau Sigma fraternities. Carlos was a practicing veterinarian for 43 years in Knoxville where he owned and operated two practices: Alcoaway Veterinary Hospital and Rocky Hill Animal Hospital, he retired February 12, 2010. Carlos served on the Tennessee Board of Veterinary Medicine, was a member of the TVMA (Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association), two times was president of East Tennessee Medical Association (ETMA), resident of the Knoxville Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA), and co-founder and president of the Knoxville Pet Emergency Clinic. CHAPTER AND HOUSE UPDATE Let’s take a look at the present Alpha Kappa Chapter and relate it to the past as well as a look at the future. The Fall 2014 semester membership is 99 and 44% are agriculture majors. This does not include anyone who has an agricultural background such as having grown up on a farm, active in 4-H and / or FFA in high school, or worked on a farm which is the case for almost all of the 56% non Ag majors. Also, a large percentage on the non Ag majors are Ag related majors recognized by the AGR national office. The best estimate of the membership who have no relationship to agriculture is less than 5% of the membership. ment can be expected to grow. With 608 males and Approximately 20 years ago the chapter started interview- only 43 Ag majors who are Alpha Kappa members, ing prospective members who came through fraternity rush. more focus needs to be on recruiting Ag majors and it This interview is conducted with AGR advisers and 6 or so is currently underway. undergraduate members. This allows AGR to get to know When recruiting new Alpha Kappa members, the the prospects better as well as discuss the requirements and first thing considered is Ag majors and individuals with responsibilities of members. This is a very important and leadership experiences in high school. Emphasis is beneficial time for the prospect as well as some current memplaced on those who have been 4-H and / or FFA bers to get a better understanding of expectations and identimembers. For non Ag majors the desired person fy if there is a fit and a true commitment to the overall philosshould have agricultural experience either directly from ophy of the fraternity. In the fall of 2014 there were 60 young living and working on a farm, working for a relative, men who wanted to join and a large percentage was recogneighbor or friend or from an Ag business background. nized as being excellent candidates. The undergraduates We also look for prospects that have or are living in a voted to only offer bids to 29 and 23 accepted and only 2 small town in a rural community. Our chapter has built went to other fraternities. The bottom line is the chapter is a reputation that our members are gentlemen. As a committed to accepting top quality individuals. Why do so result there are parents that require their sons to join many young men want to be AGR’s? They have identified AGR no matter what their major is. In other words that we are very active in college life on campus and are enthese young men are told you join AGR or be an indecouraged and supported to become participating members pendent. Some farm families want their sons to study and leaders in clubs and activities on the hill as well as on the fields other than Ag in order to understand the business Ag campus. The prospective candidates have identified that side of farming. Today’s larger farmers spend as much we are respected by the administration on the hill and Ag time on the computer making futures trades, buying campus. The university leadership is impressed with the and selling, as they do operating a tractor. As an exmentor program supported by the AGR alums and recognize ample, one son might study animal science whereas our scholastic ranking on campus vs. all men and other frathe other one accounting and both farming. ternities, etc. There was a time in prior years that Alpha KapIt is the feeling of the current advisers that we need pa was almost begging for member, but that is not the case to continue to have a chapter around 100 members for today; prospective members are seeking us out. Additionally, the following reasons: we now have several members joining who are legacies or To fulfill our purpose “to make better men” who are have been encouraged to join AGR by their fathers who were young men that can make a positive influence on the not an AGR. Our chapter is in a very enviable position in the chapter and are a part of agriculture, eyes of other fraternities. For several years Chancellor Jim To select members who are committed to carry on my Cheek has stated numerous times that “if other fraternities conducted themselves like AGR, there would be no prob- the tradition and image that Alpha Kappa has on the UT campus, lems with fraternities.” To attract members and continue with the tradition This position is hard to earn but it is very easy to lose. Much work is spent to insure this position continues and with of keeping fraternity costs low for members, a 100 member chapter vs. a 60 member chapter enables the good members it will. What is happening with the undergraduate enrollment on cost to be spread over more members and thereby being lower, the Ag campus? To enable more young men to enjoy and benefit from the fraternity life we had as members years ago. 2014 2004 1995 1975 It is the belief of the advisers and those alums that Male 608 434 750 1129 have been working for over 2 years regarding the fraFemale 740 382 377 394 ternity house that it needs renovation, that it needs to Total 1348 816 1127 1523 have a dining room large enough to allow all members % Female 54.9 46.8 33.5 25.9 to eat at one time together in order to strengthen brotherhood ties, that the chapter room be large enough to From this data the male enrollment has declined almost accommodate all of the members so they can meet 50% since 1975 and the female enrollment has increased. comfortably and that, if possible, rooms to allow 50 You will note in 2014 the female enrollment represented 55% members to live in the house as compared to the curof the total undergraduate Ag campus enrollment. The low rent 30 members living there. In meetings with the Vice enrollment in the 90’s was due to a university rule which lim- Chancellor of student life, the advisors and alumni ited the number of students that could enroll in Ag. There president have heard him say” Chapter size is a signifihas always been plenty of candidates from which to choose cant determinant in a fraternity’s (CONT. Page 10) for membership in Alpha Kappa and in the future the enroll- 2014 ALPHA KAPPA ALUMNI DUES Alpha Kappa Chapter is fortunate to have a large number of alums who participate in the voluntary Alumni dues program. The alumni listed below gave $14,245.00 in 2014. Your continued gifts help the chapter provide funds to assist in Rush including the offer of two $1,000 recruitment scholarships. Your gifts also help maintain the chapter house and support chapter awards such as the Prof Cole Leadership and Dr. Bletner Man of the Year awards. Aikman, Robert Akins, David Alley, Ken Ashby, Bobby Baggett, Mac Baggett, Phil Ballard, Billy Barnes, Roy Beasley, Joe D. Bell, Dwane T. Binkley, Les Binkley, Tracey Bone, Jr., Sam S. Bracy, Lance Brewer, Jasper Brown, Michael A. Bruff, Johnny Buck, Lewis Caldwell, Gene Carrington, Wade Chaudhari, Dipal Cherry, Kenneth Claybrook, Charles E. Coley, Bill Collins,Benjamin Craft, Bobby Craig, David Craig, Doug Crowder, J. Randall Curtis, John B. Dalton, William T. Darnell, Charles E. Davison, Will Dennis, Vance Dodd, Andy Duff, John G. Eden, Don Edmondson, William Elder, Charles Elliott, Jr.,Lloyd Elliott, William B. Estes, Jerry Estes, Mike Etheridge, Kyle Farmer, Robert Faulk, Ray H. Ferguson, Justiln Fisher, Aaron Ford, Michael Frost, Bill Gaines, Joe Galbreath, Bob Gill, Linden Gleen, Clay K. Glover, Vernon Goin, Charlie Goodman, Russell Grant, David Gravely, James M. Gregg, Fred B. Gregory, M. E. Griffey, Carl Grigsby,Jack L. Hamblen, Chris Hamblen, Sam E. Hamilton, Patrick Hammon, Randy Harrison, Joe Harrison, Keith Hayes, H. David Headlee, A. Edward Hendricks, Eric Henley, William Henry, Charles R. Hensley, Adam Hensley, Greg Hensley, Kyle Hensley, Ryan Hickman, Waymon L. Higgins, Kevin Hill, Steve Holden, Geoff Hooper, Bobby Hord, Charles Huddleston, Kirk Hurd, J. Brent Jepson, Willis M. Jones Jr., Arthur Jordan, Ken Kemp, Bill Kemp, Joe Kennedy, Mike Kinnard, J. Lewis Lafferty, Clinton Lee, James Leeman, John Lewis, W. Scott Lewter, Charles Ligon, Barry Looney, Jack Looney, Joe M. Looney, Thomas Lunn, Elmo Markovich, Peter G. Marks, George Mason, Kenneth C. Mauk, Robert Mayfield, Will McAllister, Colin McCluskey, Kent McCraney, Larry G. Meadows, Dail Mickel, Jeremy Monteith, Steve Moore, George Moore, Jim Morris, Dan Morris, James R. Morrow, Ronald Moss, Hale Mowery, Bob Murphree, Mitchell Murphy, Bill Newberry Jr., Eric Newton, Glyn E. Nichols, Mike Niles, Neil S. Nisbett, Mackie Nunn, Jim Pace, Bobby Pierce, Johnny Price, James F. Pylant, John H. Raines, Bobby Redden, Larry Reed, C. Kirby Reeves, John H. Regen, Sloan Richardson, Randle Ridenour, Bernie Ray Robertson, Jim Robertson, Ron Sanders, Ben Sanders, Bill Scarlett, Neal G. Schultz, John Seeley, William Shadden, Richard Sharp, Ben T. Shore, Ed Shore, L. B. Short, III., Jesse E. Smith, Sr. Charles L. Smith, Neal Smith, Willis Springer, John K. Stockley, Walker Swaim , John Swanson, Mark Taft, Joe E. Tarpley, John Taylor, Jim Thompson, James Tillman, Mark Todd, Jeff Veirs, Brick Voigtmann, Jeremy Wakefield, Ray Walker, Michael Webster, Jack West, John Wheeler, Dan Wheeler, Tracy White, Josh Whitfield, George Williams, Donald Williams, Shane Willis, Brent Willis, Charles Willis, Donald Willis, John Willis, Steve Wilson, Dave Wilson, Mark D. Witt, Mike Woodby, Steve Woods, Dale Wright, Coleman C. Wright, Phillip Zorio, John AGR PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE ability to provide a complete and comprehensive experience to its members. Being (actively involved in academic pursuits, leadership development, community service, philanthropic efforts and social opportunities require significant resources that are typically met through increased dues paying memberships and chapter size. ”This individual was a fraternity member in his college years. He also said that any fraternity that is removed from or leaves campus is not a problem because he has many other organizations that want on campus. Ken Alley, AKSN-296 Doug Craig, AKSN-280 Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity 1840 Fraternity Park Drive Knoxville, Tennessee 37916 Look for AGR on the Internet: www.agralphakappa.com You can update your alumni contact information any time that it changes. You can easily do this by visiting: http://alphagammarho.org/update-your-address PARENTS-FOUNDERS WEEKEND MARCH 28-29 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/780351412004439/
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