We, the Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi, believe that service to the college or university band program fosters responsibility, loyalty and leadership; that a spirit of brotherhood is enhanced by the participation in a band program; that music is a universal language and truly the greatest of the arts; and that through fraternal participation, each member will strive for the highest.
Our mission statement is captured by our creed. Does this sound like you? Read on to find out if this organization is right for you.
What is Kappa Kappa Psi?
Kappa Kappa Psi is a group of band members who dedicate themselves to band service and share a deep
love for music and the arts. Officially, we are a national honorary band fraternity that acts as a student service and leadership recognition society. We serve all of the Cal Poly Bands as well as the local music community. In short, we are a group of enthusiastic and dedicated students who do everything that we can to promote the continued existence and welfare of the bands at our university and in our community.
Iota Pi is our local chapter of the organization at Cal Poly. We were established in 1992 by our sponsor, William Johnson (Director of Bands Emeritus), and 14 members of the Cal Poly Bands (including our current Assistant Director, Len Kawamoto.) We have been actively involved in the inner workings of the bands since our installation and we are defined by our chapter mission statement: Drawn together by a love for music, we, the brothers of the Iota Pi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi remain steadfast in our purpose to serve the Cal Poly bands and to promote music within our community. We strive to embody Integrity, Optimism, Trust, Acceptance, Passion, and Individualism in everything we do. With respect for our craft, recognition of personal growth and perseverance, and promotion of the highest levels of musicianship and achievement, we work to build the bonds of brotherhood within our chapter, as well as with the community at large.
What do we do?
The Iota Pi chapter organizes a number of service events throughout the year. We set up the stages for concerts, clean the band room, organize the music library (as pictured), and administrate many large events. In the community, we’ve performed for the Villages, a local retirement home, and promoted music to the local youth through our Musical Carnivals and elementary and school outreach efforts, among other activities.
In addition, we host numerous social events for the bands and for the fraternity. Favorites include the annual Musicians’ Ball, the All-Band BBQ, post-concert receptions, games of Capture the Flag and Assassin, video scavenger hunts, Board Game/ Movie parties, bonfires, and hikes up Bishop Peak.
Are there other chapters of Kappa Kappa Psi?
Yes! There are 16 chapters in the Western District alone, including those at UCLA, Fresno State, Washington, Arizona, San Jose State, and University of Nevada, Reno. Nationwide, there are about 200 chapters. There are also many chapters of our sister sorority, Tau Beta Sigma, although we do not have one at Cal Poly.
Iota Pi is very active on the district and national levels (we’re occasionally known as “the road tripping chapter”). We regularly travel to Calivada State Days, District Leadership Conference, and Western District Convention. We have also been named one of the top chapters in the country by consistently receiving the national Chapter Leadership Award.
Why should I join?
Kappa Kappa Psi provides several leadership opportunities for students, ranging from organizing a
post-concert reception to running the entire All-State Music Festival. Even though we maintain strict no-hazing, no-alcohol, and
no-discrimination policies, we preserve the aspects of a social fraternity, providing our members with an unforgettable bonding
experience with some of the most dedicated people you’ll ever meet.
How much time would I have to commit?
Our policy on priorities is school first, then the bands, and then Kappa Kappa Psi. Membership in the fraternity is meant to be a privilege, not a life sentence. Actives are required to attend the weekly fraternity meetings, held on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. and participate in four chapter events quarterly. Beyond that, Actives can participate in as much or as little as they choose (but, of course, you get out of it what you put into it.)
How do I join?
Get involved! During fall quarter, there will be a number of social events (like the Video Scavenger Hunt and Capture the Flag) not only so that new band members can get to know everyone, but also so that we can get to know the individuals interested in joining Iota Pi. Some might call these “rush” events, but you do not have to go to them to become a member. If you’re interested in joining, just talk to some of our Actives. We want everyone who is excited to serve the bands, so just make yourself known!
During fall quarter we have open meetings, where anyone who is interested in the organization can come and meet the brothers and get a closer look at what we do. Our President, Vice President, and a few of our Active members meet with those who are interested in joining individually for a formal interview. Those who are selected for membership are invited to join the year’s education class.
The education class meets weekly during the winter quarter to learn the history and inner workings of the national fraternity, the district, and our chapter. They also organize and participate in a number of projects as a class. Again, we adhere strictly to a no-hazing policy, and members of the education class can freely drop out of the program at any time if they find that our organization is not right for them. After all of the education meetings and projects are completed, the membership candidates are initiated as Active Brothers.
Where can I learn more about Kappa Kappa Psi?
Any of our Actives would love to talk to you about the fraternity, so just ask any of us. You can visit the national website or our chapter website.
We hope you will check us out and see if Kappa Kappa Psi is right for you.
