Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
2011 Annual
Vol: 8
“KA Alumni and American Heroes”
Features
Updates
News
Events
Networking
Scholars
Leaders
Athletes
Ryan Meister graduated ISU in 2004 with degrees in politics and government as well as finance
and served the Kappa Alpha Chapter as President and Rush Chairman. While at ISU Ryan was
on the track and field team, competing in the decathlon and served in student government as the
Student Body President.
After graduating from ISU Ryan went to work in politics as an aid to then State Senator Dan
Rutherford, helping put into place a statewide organization that eventually helped Illinois
Treasurer Rutherford find success. He returned to ISU after working in state government to
pursue a Masters degree in political science with a concentration in international relations, while
interning for Congressman Tim Johnson. During the same period Ryan enlisted in the Illinois
Army National Guard with aspirations of earning a Green Beret and becoming one of the nations
elite Special Forces soldiers.
After the completion of his coursework, Ryan attended Special Forces Assessment and Selection at Ft. Bragg, NC, and was selected to
attend the Special Forces Qualification Course. After the nearly two-year training program in airborne operations, small-unit tactics, demolitions training, sabotage, subversion, language and unconventional warfare, Ryan earned the Green Beret and was immediately deployed to
Afghanistan.
After five and half months of combat operations, and just weeks from coming home Ryan and his Special Forces Operational Detachment
Alpha (ODA) went out to participate in a joint mission with the Afghan Commandos and the French Foreign Legion. On Dec. 17, 2009, SSG
Meister and his team came under direct and indirect fires from Taliban insurgents. He, along with 4 members of his team, were struck by an
82-millimeter mortar, which nearly took his life. Ryan was hit with over 18 pieces of shrapnel and was medevacted to Bagram Air Force Base
for emergency surgery. He was then transferred to Lahnstuhl, Germany, Andrews Air Force Base in Washington
D.C. and eventually to Womack Army Medical Center at Ft. Bragg, NC. It took 8 surgeries and over a year of
rehab to return Ryan to duty.
On, July 25, 2011, Ryan and some of the members of his team were awarded the Croix de la Valeur Militaire,
an award analogous to the Silver Star in the US for his actions against the Taliban and Al Qaeda elements in
Afghanistan. The award was bestowed by French Ambassador Francois Delattre at a ceremony in the
Ambassador’s Residence in Washington D.C.
Currently Ryan is deployed overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and is tasked with conducting
Counter-Narcoterrorism (CNT) in Central and South America, and in the Caribbean. He serves on a Military Free
Fall (MFF) or HALO team and has military proficiency in both French and Spanish. His awards include the Bronze
Star, the Purple Heart and the Abraham Lincoln Medal of Freedom. He is a student at Liberty University and is
working toward completing a Masters in Business Administration and expects to graduate in May of 2012.
“I was shot last deployment.............it was a hell of a recovery but, I made it back with my boys for another go at it”, stated
Ray. In December 2010, while conducting a counter-terrorism mission in Afghanistan Ray and the Delta Company, 2nd
Platoon, 2/75 Ranger Regiment took on heavy contact at the entrance to a compound. A bullet entered Ray’s left side, right
below his side plate, hit his hip, clipped his spine, and exited his right side. In short, it went straight across his back.
“The men I work with saved my life. They dragged me away from the building, patched me up and got me the hell out of
there. The doctors tell me that, if I would have stayed on the ground for 3 more minutes, I would have died. They also said
that it was by the grace of GOD that the bullet took the path that it did since they've never seen a bullet take this path and a
person fully recover. That was last December and, for all intensive purposes, I'm good.”
Ray says, “So, in short, I have Delta Company, 2nd Platoon, 2/75th Ranger Regiment and GOD to thank. And of course my family.”
Gentlemen
Brothers
Ray was awarded the Purple Heart Medal on April 29, 2011 at an award ceremony at Stadium High School in Tacoma, Washington. During the
ceremony, the Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Dave Hodne, pinned the Purple Heart Medal on Haldorson and shook his hand. Haldorson and
other members of 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment were recognized for exceptional gallantry for
their combat efforts in Afghanistan.
This event marked the first medal ceremony the battalion ever held off-post in a public setting. “It’s too
easy to do an award ceremony in the confines of the unit area in front of our families, but it’s important
that the community see these guys, because they give so much to their country and their nation,”
Hodne said. As well, Ray flew his parents Lee and Pat Haldorson to Washington to be present for the
ceremony.
Ray is a former Kappa Alpha Chapter President, a good friend to many, and we thank him for his
service and commitment to America and all of us. Ray is currently deployed out of the country. Our
hearts are with you Ray - be safe.
From the Board
Dear Alumnus,
The Kappa Alpha Alumni Association continues to be one of Pi Kappa Alpha’s largest and most recognized
Associations. The Association continues to grow and reach out to alumni in new ways. Below are the main
forums of communication the Association manages:
Website: www.isupike.com
Email Address: [email protected]
Facebook Group: ISU Pikes - Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
LinkedIn Group: ISU Pikes – Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
Through these forums the KAAA sends updates, event notifications, and emergency communications if
something comes up. Regarding the facebook group - we know that facebook is currently going through
several changes. Members may be required to sign back in as a member once these changes are finalized.
Please continue to watch for group activity on the site wall in the coming weeks to ensure you are still
connected as a member.. Administrators will also work to reach out to members if they determine the group
is inactive. This group has become a valueable tool for our association so your help in keeping it active and
current is appreciated.
The Association is always looking for new volunteers, if you’re interested and have a few minutes to spare,
please email [email protected] and ask how you can help.
The next KAAA Annual Board of Directors Meeting will be held December 5th at 12:00 noon. For more details
or if you want to be part of the call email [email protected].
In The Bonds Of ΦΦΚΑ,
The Directors of KAAA
Fall 2011 Spring 2012
*Dates and Times Subject to Change. Look for changes via email.
KAAA Board of Directors Annual Meeting
December 5th, Noon
Conference Call
Check us out on the web, www. isupike.com
ISU Pike Corporation – Annual Meeting
April 22, 2012
Email us at [email protected]
Pi Kappa Alpha’s Founder’s Day
March 1, 2012
Kappa Alpha Chapter’s Founder’s Day
April 22, 2012
CHAPTER MEETINGS
Sunday nights at 7:00 p.m. during the academic year
904 West Hovey, Normal, IL.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS
To Be Announced
Watch the facebook page for upcoming details
Go to an Event and Participate!
Send a letter with your name, current address,
home/business phone, email and suggestions to:
Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
C/O Clint Bartman
130 South Canal Unit #217
Chicago, IL 60606
Join the Facebook or LinkedIn Groups
Dear Alumni,
I hope all is well with you and your families. My name is Matt Bernard, I was elected then
installed as SMC of the Kappa Alpha Chapter in the spring of 2011. I appreciate your time and
look forward to serving our beloved fraternity.
Kappa Alpha Chapter continues to make improvements. Most importantly, we initiated 30 new
members into our brotherhood during the last academic year. 19 men were initiated in the fall,
while 11 men were initiated during the spring semester. Kappa Alpha received a recruitment award from the
International Fraternity over the summer for increasing the number of initiates by 25%. Other improvements
such as implementing a new financial management system and improving the house overall GPA each
semester are just a few of our accomplishments. Many other fraternity chapters on ISU’s campus are unable
to operate as fully functioning fraternities due to their improper actions. Our high standards and internal
policies have put Pike in the spotlight with ISU and we are considered a model fraternity on campus.
Other important highlights from last year include the implementation of a philanthropy event, called “Pikes for
Presents”. This holiday date auction helps to raise money and presents for children who are not as fortunate
during the holiday season. Our goal is to make this an annual event due to its great success.
Athletics continue to be one of Pike’s many strong points, winning overall intramural titles in sand volleyball,
base-ketball, and sports trivia. In the Greek division Pike won titles in basketball, indoor volleyball, flag football,
and softball. We continue to dominate athletics at ISU and take great pride in winning!
We’ve started off the fall 2011 semester strong, giving out 37 bids to ISU’s elite, if all goes well we hope to have
a strong pledge class and look forward to what these new members will bring to our Chapter in the form of
friendship and leadership to move Pike forward. As well, we are very proud to have adopted a new philanthropy event, which will be hosted at ISU’s new recreation center, called the “Taylor Trudeau Cycle for Life”.
This event has become a nationwide Pike event and is in honor of a brother from the Gamma Mu Chapter at
the University of New Hampshire, who passed away due to leukemia.
I hope to meet many of you soon at the house or at an alumni event. The door at 904 West Hovey is always
open to our alumni and I thank you all for your continued support. Please contact me at anytime if you have
questions about Kappa Alpha or would simply like to catch up on the happenings of the Chapter.
New Initiates
Fall 2010
Spring 2011
Stephen Banda
Glen Bernard
Robert Bordignon
Quinn Connelly
Neil Corcoran
Bryan Dickson
Kevin Drews
Kevin Gadzala
Jake Goldberg
Jeffrey Hager
Michael Hill
Phillip Ko
Kevin Kriston
Jerry Larsen
Bradley Lotzer
Nicholas Nehls
Brian Piazzi
Michael Quigley
Nolan Russert
Joseph Davies
Thomas Johlie
Alexander Leventis
Ricky Montoya
Anthony Orlando
Russell Penicook
Zachary Sowers
Michael Trujillo
Nicholas Tursi
Salvador Vega
Robert Wilson
φ φ Matt Bernard, SMC , [email protected]
Internal VP, IMC
Bryan Dickson
[email protected]
External VP, IMC
Matt Burns
[email protected]
Treasurer, THC
Kevin Kriston
[email protected]
Secretary, SC
Mike Hill
[email protected]
Risk Awareness
Rob Bordignon
[email protected]
Sergeant in Arms
Julian Hill
[email protected]
Rush Chairman
Matt Burns
[email protected]
OR Go online to www.isupike.com
and click the
“Tell Us What’s New” tab on the front page.
Contact Brad Panarese to be in the next
issue of The Advancement;
(773)-750-0137 or [email protected]
“Taking leadership to the next level”
Jason Barickman earned his law degree from the University of Illinois in 2005, and opened the doors of
his law firm, Bartell & Barickman, LLP, the day he was sworn in to the Illinois Bar. Today, Bartell,
Barickman & Powell, LLP, employs seven people in Champaign and Bloomington. Jason has long been
politically active, serving as the Chairman of the Champaign County Republican Party since 2006.
In late 2010, Barickman was appointed to serve as a State Representative for the 105th District of the
Illinois House. He serves a district composed of six counties in central Illinois, and includes parts of the
City of Champaign. Barickman, a Republican, jokes that his desk in Springfield sits directly under a
portrait of Abraham Lincoln “so he can watch over me and make sure I vote the right way.”
Jason views his role in the Illinois House as a tremendous opportunity to serve the roughly 110,000
people he represents and has worked hard alongside other members of the General Assembly to cut
state spending. He is an advocate of cutting legislator pay and pensions, as well as ending the General Assembly Scholarship program.
After the redrawing of the Illinois legislative maps in May, Barickman announced he will seek the 53rd State Senate district in 2012. The district
encompasses much of Bloomington-Normal (including all of the ISU campus), and spans from Eureka all the way to the Indiana border. During his
campaign announcement, Barickman expressed delight in the opportunity to represent a district that included his alma mater and his home
county of Livingston. Barickman is spending long hours on the road in the new district, which stretches
more than 100 miles from end-to-end. His campaign message focuses on bringing effective leadership to
a state that has been struggling to create jobs and balance its budget for the more than a decade.
Barickman, 36, lives in Champaign with his wife Kristin and their son August Michael, who was born in
May. To learn more, visit www.jasonbarickman.com or e-mail Jason at [email protected].
* Aaron Randahl (97) is another Kappa Alpha brother serving his
country. He currently is working port operations at the naval base in
San Diego and has recently volunterred for another 15 month tour
overseas to support various military units. His training starts
Mid-October and will be deployed shortly after.
* Jason Ksiazk (94) and wife, Amy had their
second child last December. Her name is
Olivia, and big sister Norah just loves her.
Jason is currently working for Chicago
Faucets in Des Plaines as a Design
Engineer/project manager.
* Dan Griffin (97) is still at the White House. His title is Deputy Director
of Administration for the Vice President. My main responsibility being
manage the VPs travel budget, which is
getting busy with campaign season
approaching. He spends most days working
with scheduling and advance offices to
ensure folks are on the ground in each city
with the resources they need for a successful
event. When necessary Dan coordinates with
federal agencies and campaigns making sure
all steps are followed.
Joe Biden, Dan and guest at
a recent fundraisining gala event.
* Michael Neville (98) recently finished medical school and am now
officially a Doctor. He is currently doing his residency in Family Medicine
at Florida Hospital in Orlando.
* Trey McClure (94) lives in Aurora, IL. He is coaching soccer, enjoys
playing soccer when he can and works as a software developer. His
daughter Skylar (8) was in her first Musical (The King and I) at the
Paramount in Aurora. Luke (9) just learned how to solve his Rubic's
Cube. Marisa (3) loves watching her brother and sister play soccer.
* Craig Painter (02) has been deployed for his third tour, this time to
Afghanistan as a First Lieutenant (1LT). Last time Craig was deployed to
Iraq in 2006-2007 right at the end of his Junior year of college. He is
currently with the 1-14th Agribusiness Development Team (ADT) out of
Springfield, IL. 1-14th ADT is a Army National Guard unit. Craigs primary
job is Military Intelligence Officer, secondary is Communications and
Operations Officer. Check out Craigs unit's Facebook page to have a
better understanding of what they are doing. - (Facebook) 1-14th
Agribusiness Development Team (Illinois National Guard).
*Clint Bartman (94) lives in Downtown
Chicago with his wife, Jennifer and 5
year old daughter Vivien. Clint is the
Senior Director of Real Estate for the
Pi Kappa Alpha International Fraternity
and Jennifer is a Brand Manager for
Miller Genuine Draft, at MillerCoors.
* Bradford Miller (98) has been busy these past past few years. He was
married to Gina (Grove) on July 26, 2008. Fellow Pike, Todd Hoeft was
in the wedding. His daughter Audrey was born June 19, 2009. Brad, also
started his own law firm, Bradford Miller Law, P.C., focusing on real
estate law - in particular short sales, traditional real estate transactions,
and landlord tenant law.
* Adam Kopcio (97) recently moved to Oswego, il and still commutes
into the Chicago working for ACE USA as the Midwest Regional
Underwriting Manager. He and his wife now have 4 beautiful children
and are expecting our 5th in March!
* Anthony Sherman (97) and Wife Ashley both work at Caterpillar Inc in
Peoria, IL. They live in Washington, IL. and just recently had their first
child this year in Feb. His name is Sawyer.
* Eric Henderson (94) is married and is a Financial Representative for
Country Financial. His wife, Melanie went back to work as a fourth grade
teacher in Geneseo, this past year. They have 5 children (Hayley 17,
Maddie 15, Lilly 12, Heath 11 and Faith 8).
Donations to the Strengthen the Bonds
Annual Fund help ISU Pike with two
very important causes, the General Operations of the KAAA and the Strengthen the Bonds
House Fund. For complete details on the Annual Fund go to www.isupike.com and click
on the “Make A Donation” tab. Please act now and give to this worthwhile cause.
Any Smythe Member receives a vote on STB House Fund Board.
Smythe Member - $1,500 - UP
Clint Bartman
Tim Yuskus
Jeremy Foy
Brad Panarese
Jason Barickman
Ryan Meister
Shad Lindsey
Excellence Member - $1,000 - $1,499
Bryan Bollendorf
Drew Lanagan
Oak Member - $500 - $999
Joe Gruginski
Brian Casey
Eric Vogel
Jacob Crow
Pete Galatro
Scott Schrank
Leith Crowther
JR Pleines
Robert Zamzow
Edgar Alvarado
Brad Bellew
Rob Rebman
*Lifetime Amount
Donated as of 09-06-11
Garnet & Gold Member - $100 - $499
Trey McClure
Chad Brantner
Matt Gansemer
Brandon Bellew
Eric Henderson
Chuck Haseman
Bob Styrkowicz
Cory Roop
Mike Budak
Steve Smock
Paul MaCarthy
Mike Thomas
J. Morrison
Justin Woith
Tom Kopecky
Jason Duffy
Tyson Albert
Marc Sweda
Dan Griffin
Mike O'Malley
Cory Simons
Dan Whalen
phi phi Kappa Alpha Member - Up to $99
Dustin Sullivan
Mike Ori
Phillip Williams
Mike Neville
Brad Tomhave
Kurt Holler
Brad Miller
Paul Hardy
Cory Birch
Corey Leach
HOW TO CONTRIBUTE
Now! 4 Easy Ways to Donate. Quick,
Simple To Do, and for a good cause!
Have $10 a month deducted
from your credit or debit card.
Go to www.isupike.com and
click on the “Make a Donation” tab
Donate any amount of money from
your credit or debit card. Go to
www.isupike.com and click on the
“Make a Donation” tab
Make a check payable to:
Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
*and mail it to:
Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
C/O Clint Bartman
130 South Canal, Unit 217
Chicago, IL 60606
* Use the tear off below.
Set up your bank account’s
automatic bill pay to send a
check to the Kappa Alpha
Alumni Association.
[email protected]
The ISU Pike Corporation is an Illinois Corporation which exists to benefit all members of the Kappa Alpha Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha, more specifically
its real estate endeavors. All initiated members of the Kappa Alpha Chapter are members of this Corporation.
A Voting Membership will be established when action is needed from the Corporation. From the Voting Membership Officers will be elected to govern
the Corporation’s day-to-day activities. At least 5 Voting Members will be needed but the more the better when this time arises.
You can become a Voting Member of the Corporation by fulfilling the requirements listed below:
• Be an alumnus member in good standing with the Kappa Alpha Chapter of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity
• Pay an Annual Voting Member Fee to the Corporation of $120
Officers of the corporation, have additional requirements listed below:
• Attend scheduled meetings (face-to-face and conference calls)
• Attend an Annual Spring Meeting in Normal
• Be willing and able to make ethical decisions promptly and diligently with strict fiduciary responsibility!
If you want to become a Voting Member of the corporation or want more details on what this is all about, please email [email protected].
The corporation will have a face-to-face meeting this spring in Normal. All operations of the Corporation are insured under Pi Kappa Alpha’s Liability
Insurance Protection Program.
2011
Make a check payable to: Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
NAME : _________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
PHONE:________________________EMAIL:___________________________________________
Mail To :
Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
C/O Clint Bartman
130 South Canal, Unit 217
Chicago, IL 60606
More than 100 Kappa Alpha Alumni are LinkedIn to our chapter group “ISU Pikes – Kappa Alpha Alumni Association”. Many alumni use this service
as a way to network with fellow brothers, look for job postings and understand more about other industries. If you’re not LinkedIn, you’re missing out.
To find out more go to LinkedIn and sign up for this free service which is sure to help you network.
AD SPACE FOR SALE: For $50 the KAAA will publish your
business card, like the cards below, in the annual edition of “The
Advancement” which is sent every fall. This publication is sent to
over 500 alumni and is an excellent way to advertise the services
you or your company provide. To take advantage of this opportunity
write a check for $50 payable to the Kappa Alpha Alumni Association and mail it to KAAA 130 South Canal, Unit 217 Chicago, IL
60606.
#
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Robert R. Styrkowicz
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1475 E. Woodfield Rd. Suite 900
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[email protected]
www.bobstyrkowicz.com
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tel
cell
fax
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Also, make sure to go to www.isupike.com and update your profile
“International Model, Friend, and Brother”
Pierre Woods (00) after graduating from Galesburg High School in 1999
went to Illinois State University on a Track & Field scholarship.Pierre
became a KA Pike in 2000 and received his bachelor’s degree in
marketing with an economics minor in 2004. From there, he moved to
the Chicago area and began working for Wells Fargo. On a whim, he
answered a radio ad looking for models. He soon signed with Ford
Chicago, supplementing his day job with part-time modeling gigs.
Success in the Chicago market — which included everything from
billboards to television commercials — led to an offer from Fashion Milan
to model in Italy, where Woods did shoots for Dolce & Gabbana,
Ferragamo and many other designers.
Next, Woods turned his attention to New York. He signed with New York
Models in April 2007. Just over a year after moving to New York, Pierre
learned he would be in Polo by Ralph Lauren’s fall campaign. That news
quickly was followed by an offer to be part of the 2008 Olympics
campaign. Since then Pierre has been the face of Ralph Lauren around
the world.
When you walk though any shopping area in the world you can find
Pierre looking back at you and that’s no joke look around and you’ll see
him everywhere. Pierre is a great friend to many of us and we congratulate him on what he’s accomplished! We look forward to your future
endeavors. φφ
* Eric Fuller (96) is currently living in Byron. IL for 3 years. He and wife
Felecia of 7 years, have three children (Addison 4, Aubrie 2, and Evan 5
months). Eric is currently employed as a a sales representative for Lawson
Products for a little over a year and Felecia is a 5th grade teacher in
Pecatonica, IL.
* Pat Elder (94) and wife Casey have three children, Mitch (9), John (8)
and Maggie (3). They live in Spring Grove, IL and Pat works at RichmondBurton Community High School as the Athletic Director and Head Football
Coach.
* Chuck F. Millington (94) and wife, Erin have 3 boys and live in Naperville,
IL. Their boys are 9,8 & 6, and are very active with football, baseball and
basketball, with football being the biggest focus, at least for now. Chuck
and his father own a financial advisory business in downtown Naperville;
Millington Financial Advisors. They provide investment management,
insurance and tax planning services to individuals,
families and small businesses. Their clients have
benefited from our extensive financial services
experience, as well as the relationships we have
with TD Ameritrade, Genworth and Morningstar.
If you or someone you know could also benefit,
do hesitate to call them at (630) 457-1264.
* Eric Weaver (95) currently lives in St Louis. Eric is engaged to Haley
Grant and has two loving dogs (Suzy and Biggs). In early 2009, Eric left
the public sector as the America's Sales Operations Manager at GE
Healthcare to pursue commercialization of a private Global Chemical
company where he is currently the North American Sales Director. The
best way to reach Eric is to contact directly by phone (314-498-0904) or
email ([email protected]).
* Brett Yuknis (02) is currently working at Coyote Logistics in Chicago as
an Enterprise Account Scheduler and live in Lakeview in Chicago.
* John R. Madera (98) recently got engaged and plans to marry in April
2012. He also has been promoted to Senior Manager within Business
Advisory at Ernst & Young.
* Jamie Durdel (94) In May of this year, was named President & CEO of
TCRC, Inc. which is a not for profit organization located in Tazewell
County, IL. Jamie has worked there for 7 years as the Senior Vice
President and was promoted when the President retired.
The companies primary focus is to take care of
people with developmental disabilities through
group homes, day training centers, early
intervention programs, employment programs,
and family support programs. TCRC has 140
employees and ten different sites throughout
Tazewell County. Jamie has been married to
my wife Robin for 15 years and have 2 children, Mason, 13 and Jacy, 8.
* Michael P. Heneghan (98) is an assistant portfolio manager to Richard
Driehaus at Driehaus Capital Management in Chicago. Before joining
the firm in August 2009, he was an equity analyst on the special
situations team at Goldman Sachs and worked at Merrill Lynch for four
years.
*Todd Gordon (98) is an associate managing director/portfolio manager
at The PrivateBank where he is involved in underwriting and the
development of a new business banking group. Todd and his wife
recently moved to Arlington Heights and 6 weeks ago welcomed their
second child- Jake. Everyone is doing well.
* Both Todd and Michael Hennegan were both chosen this year by ISU’s
College of Business with Early Career Achievement Awards. Each year
the Department only hands out a select few to professionals under 35
excelling in the industry. Both will be heading back to ISU for an awards
ceremony, get a chance to talk to classes and participate in panel
discussion through the college.
To read more about Early Career Achievements go to
http://www.cob.ilstu.edu/alumni/ecaa/ecaa.shtml.
Have an idea for an event? Let us know.
[email protected]
OR Go online to www.isupike.com
and click the
“Tell Us What’s New” tab on the front page.
Contact Brad Panarese to be in the next
issue of The Advancement;
(773)-750-0137 or [email protected]
“KA Alum & Actor enjoying success”
* Michael Roark 02’ plays the role of
Donovan Peck in the Warner Brothers
film “Dolphin Tale”. The film stars Harry
Connick Jr., Ashley Judd, and Morgan
Freeman and is inspired by a true story.
If you haven’t seen this movie yet, get
to the theater and see it today. Mike,
congratulations on this role and your
continued success, we’re proud to call
you brother.
Above: Michael and guests
at movies premier
Right Top: Michael w/ Mom
attending the “Dolphin Tale”
movie premier.
Right Bottom: Michael with
the rest of the
stars from the movie.
We featured Michael last year as his TV
Career continued to rise. On TV,
Michael has guest starred on various
television series such as; The Glades
acting as Justin Brussard (Guest-Star) for Fox TV Studios, Drop Dead Diva acting as
Joey Bray (Co-Star) for Lifetime TV and The Vampire Diaries acting as Cowboy/Frank
(Co-Star) for the CW TV Network.
He began acting as a theater minor at Illinois State University and went on to attend law
school at the University of Florida where he continued acting in community theater and
excelled in trial advocacy. Following law school, he trained at the Performer's Studio
Workshop in Tampa, Florida. Michael is a member of The Screen Actors Guild (SAG),
The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) and is also licensed to
practice law in the state of Florida.
* Craig “Squigs” Squillace (94) lives in Western Springs, IL with his wife
and son, Franklin who is now 3. Craig works for Clifford Law Offices,
P.C. and will be a practicing attorney this November for 9 years. Craig
was named 40 under 40, in 2008 by the Chicago Law Bulletin - which
recognizes 40 top lawyers within Illinois under 40 yrs of age. He has
also been named a Rising Star by Super Lawyer from 2008 to the
present.
* Scott Seybold (95) is living in Springfield Illinois and is a finance
manager at Green Nissan. In his spare time he is a certified personal
trainer for a company called Fitclub.
* Rob Rebman (83) is doing well and is currently , living in St. Louis and
working for a software company called Ungerboeck, as a Pre Sales
Analyst. Rob was a chapter advisor for Kappa Alpha in the mid 90’s and
is still a good friend to alumni today. If you’re ever in St. Louis look him
up. 1926 Compton Hill, St. Louis, MO 63104.
* Josh Versluys (02) began working as an Assistant State's Attorney in
Woodford County this April. In June he moved to Peoria Heights.
Looking for a night out? Kappa Alpha Alumni
around the Chicago area have continued to meet
up at a popular hotspot, the Fifty/50, as a place
where drinks flow and having a good time is all part of the plan.
Owned by Kappa Alpha alumnus Greg Mohr, the Fifty/50 has a great
atmosphere, good food and a great selection of wine and spirits. Many
alumni have stopped by and all are welcome.
Lending a PAW
Brian Wroblewski (96) currently lives in downtown Chicago with
girlfriend Michelle. Brian currently owns and operates Brian Scott
Autos, primarly selling Land Rovers.
Not only being just a dog lover, Brian and Michelle are heavily
involved in PAWS Chicago.
PAWS Chicago is the city’s
largest No Kill humane
organization, focused on
implementing solutions
to end the killing of
homeless pets.
Kids Fight Cancer
Tony Disano (96) continues to be involved with the “Kids Fight
Cancer” organization as a Director. Their 27th annual fall gala is
Oct 15th at the Donale E. Stephans Grand Ballroom in Rosemont,
IL. more info at www.kidsfightcancer.org.
This organizations mission is to provide pediatric and
adolescent cancer patients with a safe, educational and entertaining environment which
reduces the stresses, side
effects and emotional
struggles confronted during
cancer treatment.tt
OR Go online to www.isupike.com
and click the
“Tell Us What’s New” tab on the front page.
Contact Brad Panarese to be in the next
issue of The Advancement;
(773)-750-0137 or [email protected]
* Adam M. Levinson (94) is in his sixteenth year teaching high school
English.This past summer I was promoted to Division Head of the
English/Fine Arts department at Prospect High School in Township High
School District 214. He is enjoying this new challenge and hopes all of
his Pike brothers are doing well.
* Brad Panarese (94) recently started a new job with Tris3ct, a small
independent marketing agency in the west loop of Chicago as a Vice
President. There he is focused primarily on retail and consumer
promotion work for clients such as - U.S Cellular and Conagra. He and
his wife, Allison are up in Lake Zurich, IL and have two children; Grant
(5) and Samantha (3).
* John Henschel (95) and his wife welcomed their second child in June.
Ross his oldest will be 2 in December and Whitney will be three months
old next week. John is an Applications Architect at Walgreens and wife is
a manager at AT&T.
* Brian Thouvenot (94) as part of BELO television,
helped cover Hurricane Irene when it hit the east coast.
He and wife Carrie are about to celebrate their 14th
wedding anniversary. Many Kappa Alpha founding
father brothers helped celebrate with them, including
Adam Levinson, his best man, Jeremy Foy and Justin
Woith. Carrie is about to finish grad school for her
Masters in elementary education while daughter Milana, 5, is a full-time
kindergartner. Unfortunately in June, Brians father passed away from a
sudden stroke.He is survived by my mom, my brother, me and 5
grandchildren.
* Jim Colby (97) and wife just welcomed their 3rd child on 9/23. Boden
was born at 1:01am. 9lbs 4oz, & 21.5 in long and doing well.
Baby Boden and
the rest of the Colby Boys
* Nick Crosse (03) is working and living in naperville. He got a teaching
job at Metea Valley high school in Aurora in the technology department
teaching engineering, CAD, and automotive. Nick is currently working on
his masters in educational leadership.
* Joe Gruginski (94) moved to Horsham, Pa (15 miles north of Philly)
with his wife and daughter Maya in 2008. He became project manager at
Compass Healthcare Communications, an online marketing agency for
small pharmaceutical companies, and was with them in that capacity for
two years. In January of 2011, Joe and Deb welcomed baby Liana, and
this past August Joe started with Janssen Scientific Affairs, a Johnson &
Johnson company, as Manager, Solutions Portfolio Management.
* Austin Wenger (03) is married, with a 22 month old little girl. He is living
just east of Champaign in Saint Joseph, IL and teaching PE and
coaching in Westville, IL. He coaches high school golf, jr. high boys
basketball, and high school girls track.
Shawn Thorpe,96.
Keith Galvin,02.
Roger Pascual,97.
Matt (STU) Stolarick, 96.
Jeff Duck, 94.
* Clint Pichon (03) is President and CEO of, Windward Technology, a
company Clint founded. The company will be celebrating it’s 5 year
anniversary this May. Windward provides technology and business
consulting services to help companies become more efficient and more
profitable. They have expanded to a staff of 14 people and currently
manage clients in 5 states.
* Shad Lindsey (94) is currently a Research Administrator with State Farm.
Daughter, Taylor, is now 12 and on the softball, dance and volleyball teams
at her middle school. Skylar is 18 months and getting involved in gymnastics.
* Andy Cox (94) is with the Bourbonnais Police Department. and a
patrolman with several specialties; He is also an EMT, Field Training
Officer, Crime Scene Tech and Department Evidence Tech, Rapid
Deployment Instructor, Department Medical instructor, and a member or
ILEAS. Wife, Carrie is now with ATI Physical Therapy where she works as
an Athletic Trainer and also works with the Central Comets sports
programs as their athletic trainer. They have two daughters Carly 3 1/2 yo,
and Emily 1 1/2.
* Seamus King (96) and family have moved from Glen Ellyn, IL to Katy, TX,
which is located west of Downtown Houston, this past March. Seamus
started the Houston branch for the valuation firm that he has worked for
over the past five years. There they celebrated their daughter's third
birthday in August and survived a first summer in southern Texas. After a
six year hiatus, Seamus just started running again and will be participating
in the San Antonio Rock and Roll half marathon in November.
* Chris Brophy (96) is keeping busy with two girls and two boys. Ciara is 7,
Sean is 5, Caitlyn is about to turn 3, and youngest is 1 1/2. Chris expects to
be lieutenant at the Bolingbrook fire department any day now. He finished
his BS in fire science this past spring. He is also the Pipe Major for a
bagpipe and drum band at his fire department, a member of a state honor
guard pipe band, as well as a member of a Naperville pipe band.
* Stig Carlson (94) and wife just bought a new house in Volo and had their
third child.Matthew Thomas was born 7/26/11.Their oldest, Avery is 8 and
starting 3rd grade. Their middle child Abigail is 20 months. Stig is still with
Grainger as a project manager.
* Rich Wolter (98) has been married for 4 years with two girls ages
Madison (3yrs) and Ryleigh (1.5 yrs). He resides in Rockford IL . After 5
years of being a financial advisor for a bank, his talents for speaking
started to grow and was asked to start teaching for the company and
others on how to achieve high sales and better attitudes through seminars,
ect. This became natural for Rich as of 2 yrs ago he
started his own business richwolter.com where he
travels to high schools, colleges and business as a
inspirational speaker/coach. He has been
certificated and trained under some of the
best speakers in the nation.
* Kelly Hamill (94) and wife, Laura, have been married for 12 years and
have three boys. Calvin is their oldest and is 6. Braeden and Dylan are
identical twins and they are 4. Kelly has been working for the Village of
Northbrook for the last 12 years. During this time he went back to school
and earned a Masters in Public Administration and a little over a year ago
was promoted to Director of Public Works.
* Michael Ori (96) is living in Wauconda, Illinois with
wife Tara, who is an Assistant Lake County States
Attorney, and their three children, Jack (6), Nick (4)
and Audrey (2). Mike is a partner in the firm of
Beermann & Ori, Ltd. in Libertyville, Illinois concentrating in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense
and Real Estate Transactions.
Kappa Alpha Alumni Association
C/O Clint Bartman
130 South Canal, Unit 217
Chicago, IL 60606
Scholars
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