This past weekend, I attended the centennial celebration for my initiating chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. While attending this event, I got to spend a day with chapter brothers of all ages to discuss the future of our chapter; both for our undergraduates and our alumni. It was an inspiring experience that forced us all to consider how we utilize the moment to propel our chapter forward for the next 100 years. In returning home, that experience led to reflection about AFA.
With the celebration of 50 years of elevating the standard of the fraternity/sorority industry approaching, it is natural to focus on where the association has been and how we’ve arrived at this milestone. For me, that reflection now firmly rests on the future of AFA. Having built so much momentum, as we close out a strategic plan, there lies a great opportunity for the next iteration of the board to play a vital role in laying the foundation for the next 50 years of the association. April serves as the catalyst with the opening of nominations open for the 2026 election cycle. I am hopeful that we will see a wealth of outstanding members nominated for consideration.
But, what makes someone ready for board service?
From what I have seen so far in my time on the board, it takes a deep care for AFA and a desire to see the association move forward. Serving on the board requires a willingness to engage in challenging conversations that may, at times, push against your most salient values. You must be able to remove yourself in the discourse to make decisions in the best interest of the membership and stand behind those decisions and AFA staff as the work of the association is carried out. This work is by no means easy but I see how rewarding and transformative it can be if the right people choose to lean in.
The next board will certainly need the right people. I hope that you see yourself as someone that can step into this space and lead. I hope that, even if you aren’t ready this year, you seek out opportunities and conversations that will prepare you for the right moment in the years to come. But, now more than ever, we need the best of us to set in motion the next 50 years of AFA. Nominate yourself if you’re ready. Nominate your peers if you see something in them that would be great for the board. And, most importantly, continue to answer the call to serve the association.