Chi Psi was first established at Union College in 1841, and then became a national fraternity with a second Alpha at Williams College in 1842. In the early years, even as Alphas were being added quickly, no central governance was needed. Communication was frequent between the many Alphas and the National Convention held each year saw almost all Brothers of the Fraternity attend. In 1879, the office of the #7 (National President) was created. Revisions were being made yearly as to how the Fraternity should be governed and in 1891, the Executive Council was established. It has expanded over the years and its members today are comprised of the current #7, Bill Hattendorf, all living past presidents, 11 alumni, and five undergraduate Regional Representatives. The Executive Council is assisted by an advisory board that currently consists of 10 alumni.
The Executive Council meets three or four times per year to oversee the governing affairs of the Fraternity between Conventions. It implements the directives of the Convention, oversees Central Office employees, grants preliminary Candidate Alpha status to prospective Alphas, and ensures that Fraternity activity conforms with the Constitution and By-Laws. See the current members of the Council below.
Each year, one undergraduate Regional Representative is elected for each Chi Psi region with their term starting and ending at successive Conventions. Serving in this role is one of the most impactful leadership opportunities available to Active Chi Psi Brothers. Elected representatives serve as the voice of undergraduates on the Executive Council, offering insight, perspective, and awareness of the state of their region’s Alphas. They also have the chance to travel around the country for three in-person meetings of the Executive Council, one being held during Convention at the end of the summer and the others in the fall and spring. Throughout the year they connect with each Alpha’s #1 to discuss successes and challenges. Regional Representatives also play a role in National Chi Psi events including the Rowe Regional Leadership Conferences and the Annual Convention, where they may support the Central Office staff.
Council Members Emeriti:
W. David Romoser, ZΔ ’65 – Mequon, WI & Scottsdale, AZ
Michael Kosusko, Ξ ’77 – Durham, NC
Past #7s:
Dr. George W. Ray III, A ’54 – Lexington, VA
Carleton A. Holstrom, I ’57 – Pipersville, PA
Dr. Daniel B. Ahlberg, N ’67 – Golden Valley, MN & Bonita Springs, FL
Verne G. Istock, E ’62 – Naples, FL
