On Thursday, October 15, 2026, the Phi Delta Theta Educational Foundation hosted a reception at the historic Cosmos Club in Washington, DC, bringing together alumni and undergraduate members representing more than 40 chapters from across the Fraternity currently living and working in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. The event coincided with the Foundation’s Board of Trustees meeting the following morning.
The program featured remarks from Foundation President Howard Gellis, Phi Delta Theta Executive Vice President and CEO Sean Wagner, and undergraduate chapter leaders who shared firsthand accounts of how Foundation-supported educational programming has strengthened their leadership skills and prepared them for success beyond graduation.
Sean Wagner also provided updates on the Fraternity’s ongoing initiatives and its commitment to ensuring a safe, healthy, and meaningful experience for every member. He highlighted Phi Delta Theta’s leadership in the effort to pass the Stop Campus Hazing Act and its participation in the Anti-Hazing Coalition. Phi Delta Theta was the only fraternity invited to work alongside parents who have lost sons to hazing, a tragic practice that the Fraternity is committed to eradicating. Wagner emphasized the importance of continuing to stand against hazing, promoting substance-free chapter experiences, and advocating against sexual assault as part of the Fraternity’s broader commitment to member safety, well-being, and personal development.
The highlight of the evening was hearing from three undergraduate speakers, two from Maryland Alpha at the University of Maryland including Chapter President Logan Anderson, and Executive Housing Manager Sean Win; along with Alejandro Touset, Chapter President of the Virginia Lambda chapter at George Mason University. They each discussed their experiences at the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute, and how the lessons learned have helped them become more effective chapter leaders while building skills they can carry into their professional careers.
Their remarks reinforced the important role Foundation donors play in advancing Phi Delta Theta’s educational mission. Through their generosity, donors help provide undergraduate members with opportunities to develop as leaders, strengthen their chapters, and prepare for life after college.
Phi Delta Theta General Council President Nat Love was also in attendance, joining fellow Fraternity leaders, alumni, and undergraduates in celebrating the Foundation’s continued investment in the next generation of Phi Delta Theta leaders.
Honoring Foundation Board Service
Following the reception, a small dinner was held for Foundation trustees, providing an opportunity to recognize two outgoing members: Past President Mark Bye, MIT, and Michael Hyatt, Oklahoma State University. Their commitment, dedication, and service to the Foundation’s board have made a meaningful and lasting impact on Phi Delta Theta and its members. The Fraternity is grateful for their leadership and the lasting contributions they have made to its educational mission.
