December, 1996, is my anniversary. Twenty-
five years ago I was initiated as a member of
Alpha Phi Omega. To many of you, 25 years
may seem, or even be, more than your lifetime.
And over my 25 years of membership, I have
seen many changes in our Fraternity.Over that period, the Fraternity has had three different National Offices. Two of these were rented spaces while the current facility is our permanently-owned National headquarters in Independence, Missouri. Since 1973 the Fraternity has had three National Executive Directors: Roger Sherwood, Darrel Spoon, and Patrick Burke - each assisting our organization with his own special talents. Through our Long Range Plan, the Fraternity has set a goal to grow the Endowment Fund to $3,000,000, an amount that seemed unreachable in 1971, but today is very attainable.
But the changes that are the most impressive in our great Fraternity are the changes that have occurred during our National Conventions. Changes which are initiated and approved by the members in attendance. From the opening of our membership to women in 1976, to the definition of our pledging standards in 1980 , to the clarification of our relationship with the Boy Scouts of America at the 1994 National Convention, the future of Alpha Phi Omega has been shaped during this legislative process. The same will be true at the 32nd National Convention in Phoenix this December.
The delegates in attendance will be asked to evaluate the specific proposals and programs which have been referred to each of the fourteen different reference committees. These reference committees will deliberate over the legislation, discussing the pros and cons of each matter. They will report their recommendations during the legislative sessions where the voting delegates from each chapter in attendance will vote on these proposals and programs.
The issues before this National Convention are diverse. From deciding the area of emphasis of the National Service Program for the next two years to the election of new National Officers. From suggested changes to the Toast Song to selection of a location for the next convention. These will all be responded to at the National Convention in Phoenix.
Over the years, Alpha Phi Omega has adapted to the changes in society and altered its programs to meet the needs of our members. Who knows what the Fraternity will be like 25 years from now. One thing is for sure - you have the opportunity by participating in our National Convention, to shape the future of our beloved Fraternity into the twenty-first century and beyond. See you in Phoenix.