The National Conclave of the Fraternity of Alpha Kappa Lambda is the Fraternity’s oldest and most significant gathering, first convened in the early years of AKL’s history. Established as the supreme legislative body of the Fraternity, the Conclave has long served as the forum where critical decisions are made that shape the direction and governance of the organization.
Held biennially, this four-day event brings together undergraduate and alumni members from across the country for a blend of leadership education, structured legislative sessions, and brotherhood-building activities. It is during the Conclave that the official delegation, comprising representatives from active chapters and alumni, debates and votes on constitutional amendments, bylaw revisions, and resolutions that guide the National Executive Council and the Fraternity’s national programs.
Since its founding in 1914, Alpha Kappa Lambda has used Conclave not only as a governance mechanism but also as a celebration of its values and achievements. Over the decades, Conclave has become a cornerstone of AKL tradition, fostering unity, reaffirming the Fraternity’s mission, and preparing members to lead with integrity in both fraternal and professional spheres.
All brothers, along with their families and friends, are encouraged to attend and take part in this defining event in the life of the Fraternity.
Alpha Kappa Lambda has a proud and enduring commitment to cultivating principled, effective leaders. Central to this mission is the annual leadership training program for newly elected Chapter Presidents, which has been a foundational element of the Fraternity’s officer development for many years. This vital program was renamed the Clark–Thompson Presidents’ Academy in honor of Dean Clark and Harry Thompson, esteemed founders of Alpha Kappa Lambda’s Mu Chapter at The Ohio State University. Thanks to the generosity and foresight of the Mu Chapter alumni, a $250,000 endowment fund was established within the AKL Education Foundation. This endowment ensures continuous financial support for the Presidents’ Academy & Officers’ Institute, safeguarding the program’s ability to provide high-quality leadership education into the future.
Held each January, the Clark–Thompson Presidents’ Academy & Officers’ Institute delivers comprehensive and rigorous training designed to equip Chapter Presidents with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary to lead with distinction. The program has expanded to include specialized training tracks tailored to additional key officers, including the Treasurer, Vice President/Risk Manager, and Recruitment Chair. These targeted sessions provide role-specific guidance, best practices, and resources essential for effective chapter management and governance.
The Presidents’ Academy & Officers’ Institute exemplifies Alpha Kappa Lambda’s dedication to fostering leadership among men of character. Through this program, the Fraternity continues to honor its founding principles and prepare its members to serve with integrity, vision, and excellence both within the chapter and beyond.
In conjunction with the Clark–Thompson Presidents’ Academy & Officers’ Institute, Alpha Kappa Lambda offers the Emerging Leaders Initiative, a targeted leadership development program designed for undergraduate members who have joined the Fraternity within the past year. This initiative provides these emerging leaders with foundational training and skill-building opportunities essential for effective chapter involvement and future leadership roles.
The Emerging Leaders Initiative fosters engagement and collaboration among participants from chapters nationwide, allowing members to build a network of peers while developing critical competencies in leadership, communication, and organizational management. Through this program, Alpha Kappa Lambda reaffirms its commitment to cultivating leadership potential early in a member’s fraternal experience, ensuring a strong pipeline of prepared and principled leaders for the future.
The Emerging Leaders Initiative serves as a critical stepping stone for new members, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence needed to actively contribute to their chapters and the broader fraternity community. By engaging with national peers and experienced fraternity leaders, participants gain valuable insights into the responsibilities and expectations of leadership roles. This early investment in leadership development not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens the collective future of Alpha Kappa Lambda.
