The Founders’ Cup

The Founders’ Cup is the highest honor bestowed upon a chapter of Alpha Kappa Lambda. This distinguished award recognizes the Fraternity’s most accomplished chapter, demonstrating exceptional performance across all areas of operation. Evaluation considers achievement in recruitment, financial management, risk management, member education, leadership development, scholarship, campus involvement, alumni relations, and community service. The chapter receiving this honor exemplifies sustained excellence, responsible leadership, and the enduring spirit of the Five Ideals of Alpha Kappa Lambda.

Previous Winners

Year Chapter Institution
2026 Gamma Beta  University of Alabama
2024 Gamma Tau Indiana University
2022 Gamma Tau Indiana University
2020 Gamma Tau Indiana University
2018 Gamma Pi University of Connecticut
2016 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
2014 Gamma Nu Mansfield University
2012 Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2010 Kappa Purdue University
2008 Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2006 Gamma Iota Eastern Michigan University
2004 Alpha Rho University of Texas – El Paso
2002 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2000 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1998 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1996 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1995 Kappa Purdue University
1994 Eta Washington State University
1993 Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1992 Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1991 Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1990 Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1989 Xi Truman State University
1987 Xi Truman State University
1986 Psi Iowa State University
1985 Xi Truman State University
1982 Xi Truman State University
1982 Beta Delta Illinois State University
1974 Kappa Purdue University
1974 Iota Kansas State University
1970 Psi Iowa State University
1957 Pi Millikin University
1956 Xi Truman State University
1955 Lambda Emporia State University
1954 Xi Truman State University
1953 Gamma University of Illinois
1952 Eta Washington State University
1951 Eta Washington State University

Campus Engagement Award

Aligned with the Fraternity’s Five Ideals, Leadership, this award recognizes the chapter that demonstrates exceptional engagement and influence within its host institution. Consideration is given to participation in student organizations, interfraternal leadership, university committees, and major campus events. The honored chapter serves as a model of leadership, visibility, and collaboration on campus.

Previous Winners

Year Chapter Institution
2026 Delta University of Kansas
2024 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
2022 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
2020 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2018 Gamma Pi University of Connecticut
2016 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2014 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2012 Gamma Lambda Temple University
2010 Gamma Lambda Temple University
2008 Kappa Purdue University
2006 Gamma Kappa Fairleigh Dickinson University-Madison
2004 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2002 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1998 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1996 Alpha Phi University of Idaho

Community Service & Impact Award

Reflecting on the Five Ideals of Self-Support and Judeo-Christian Principles, this award honors the chapter that demonstrates sustained contributions to its surrounding community. Consideration is given to hands-on service, charitable fundraising, and long-term partnerships that create meaningful impact. The recipient chapter exemplifies the Fraternity’s commitment to service, compassion, and moral responsibility.

Previous Winners

Year Chapter Institution
2026 Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2024 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
2022 Gamma Lambda Temple University
2020 Delta University of Kansas
2018 Xi Truman State University
2016 Xi Truman State University
2014 Gamma Nu Mansfield University
2012 Gamma Lambda Temple University
2010 Alpha Rho University of Texas-El Paso
2008 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
  Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2006 Alpha Phi University of Idaho
  Xi Truman State University
2004 Alpha Rho University of Texas-El Paso
2002 Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville

Irving L. Dilliard Academic & Membership Development Award

Named in honor of Brother Irving L. Dilliard (Alpha ’19), this award recognizes the chapter demonstrating exceptional commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its members. Consideration is given to GPA, educational improvement, scholarship programs, faculty engagement, and leadership training. Chapters are also recognized for fostering growth outside the classroom through mentorship, membership development, training workshops, and community engagement.

Previous Winners

Year Chapter Institution
2014 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2008 Gamma Alpha University of Missouri
2006 Gamma Iota Eastern Michigan University
2004 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2002 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo

Holmes Senior Achievement Award

Created in 1954 to honor Brothers Fred Gooding Holmes (Alpha ’15) and Fred Weber Holmes (Alpha ’38), this award is presented to a senior or recently graduated member (within six months of graduation) who has distinguished themselves as the Fraternity’s most accomplished undergraduate member. Unlike the Brehm Award, this recognition celebrates a cumulative record of achievement, leadership, and service throughout the recipient’s time as an undergraduate member.

Previous Winners

Year Name Chapter Institution
2026 Gavin Redpath Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2024 Ryan Wainscott Gamma Tau Indiana University
2020 Chris Cirvello Gamma Lambda Temple University
2018 Joel Brumfield Xi Truman State University
2016 Hannibal Miksis Gamma Theta Boise State University
2015 Dillon Mulroy Gamma Nu Mansfield University
2014 Tom Navarez Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2013 Sean Olmstead Gamma Theta Boise State University
2012 Alexander B. Kouzel Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2011 Nathan J. Price Kappa Purdue University
2010 Jonathan D. Krueger Lambda Emporia State University
2009 Kevin W. Uffelman Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2008 Joseph C. Brannan Beta Phi Auburn University
2007 Crosby G. Houpt Gamma Iota Eastern Michigan University
2006 Robert A. Baptiste III Psi Iowa State University
2005 Craig W. Zanetti Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2004 Joshua D. Morris Kappa Purdue University
2002 James B. Depew Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2001 Samuel R. Garman Beta Psi Missouri State University
2000 David J. Boennighausen Xi Truman State University
1999 Brandon H. Haren Beta Zeta East Tennessee State University
1998 Wayne R Edwards Beta Tau Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville
1997 Elijah Ercolino Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1996 Ryan A. Powers Beta Omicron James Madison University
1995 Thomas R. Cuthbert Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1994 Daniel S. Cunningham Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1993 Matthew B. Gatrell Gamma Alpha University of Missouri
1992 Eric J. Wikstrom Eta Washington State University
1991 Edward A. Job Xi Truman State University
1990 Darren A. Hennen Sigma University of Central Missouri
1989 Kevin E. Lammers Beta Omicron James Madison University
1988 Guy L. Davis Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
1986 Jim Weigert Kappa Purdue University
1984 Mark Mears Delta University of Kansas
1983 Robert M. Wrenn Kappa Purdue University
1982 Thomas W. Atkinson Kappa Purdue University
1981 Bret G. Wilson Sigma University of Central Missouri
1980 James L. Van Horn Sigma University of Central Missouri
1979 David K. Holmes Iota Kansas State University
1978 R. Bruce Anderson Beta Delta Illinois State University
1977 Frank A. Puglia Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1976 Edwin R. Yarbrough Kappa Purdue University
1974 Anthony L. Leggio Omicron University of Pacific
1970 M. Mark Retonde II Delta University of Kansas
1969 Kenneth Baab Alpha Kappa Colorado State University
1968 Leslie Longberg Iota Kansas State University
1967 Harlan R. Sager Phi Oregon State University
1965 William C. Porter Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1964 Darryl Hughey Lambda Emporia State University
1963 David H. Huffman Delta University of Kansas
1962 David H. Meyer Mu The Ohio State University
1961 Wesley A. Cook Upsilon University of Northern Colorado
1960 Robert A. Nebrig Delta University of Kansas
1959 William R. Petrocelli Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1958 Edward Dubbs Tau Penn. State University
1957 Raymond E. North Iota Kansas State University
1956 Ronald Freund Beta Stanford University
1955 John Juergensmeyer Gamma University of Illinois
1954 John Stahr Beta Stanford University
1954 Art Aspengren Nu Ohio University

Clarence E. Brehm Leadership Award

Established in 1982 in honor of Clarence E. Brehm (Iota ’32), this award recognizes an undergraduate member who is actively demonstrating exceptional leadership within the Fraternity. Selection is based on current achievements in chapter operations, campus involvement, and the development of fellow members—highlighting leadership in action and its lasting impact of the recipient’s contributions.

Previous Winners

Year Name Chapter Institution
2026 Dominick Scholten Kappa Purdue University
2024 Anthony Adem Gamma Tau Indiana University
2022 Jerron Phifer Gamma Omicron Dalton State College 
2020 Jordan Hieronymus Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2018 Gabe Kasper Gamma Upsilon Saginaw Valley State University
2016 Joey Bahnsen Psi Iowa State University
2015 Danny Ruvulo Gamma Kappa Fairleigh Dickinson University
2014 Scott Tomensky Tau Penn. State University
2012 David Dooley Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2010 Addison Giannini Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2009 Colin Emilius Gamma Lambda Temple University
2008 Austin Campbell Alpha Rho University of Texas – El Paso
2007 Christopher Warnick Kappa Purdue University
2006 Jeffrey Szumanski Gamma Iota Eastern Michigan University
2004 Craig Solum Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2003 William Oldham Gamma Eta Auburn University
2002 Jeremie Eginoire Alpha Zeta Northwest Missouri State University
2001 Doug V. Hawkins Jr. Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2000 Barton Cochran Alpha Phi University of Idaho
1999 Scott Hayes Sigma University of Central Missouri
1998 Bill Castro Tau Penn. State University
1997 Rob Milesnick Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
1996 Chris Steines Beta Psi Missouri State University
1995 Mike Vickers Beta Phi Auburn University
1994 Justin Holtkamp Psi Iowa State University
1993 Kevin Camden Alpha Lambda Northern Illinois University
1989 Brian Bazer Tau Penn. State University
1987 Thomas Mollgaard Alpha Theta University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
1986 Tom Paulsen Alpha Zeta Northwest Missouri State University

Henry T. Moon Chapter Advisor Excellence Award

Renamed in 2015 to honor Henry T. Moon (Tau ’57), long-time advisor to Tau Chapter at Penn State, this award recognizes an individual whose dedication, guidance, and mentorship consistently exceed the expectations of a chapter advisor. It honors those who actively shape their chapter’s success, foster leadership, and ensure the chapter upholds the standards and ideals of the Fraternity. They serve as a model of commitment and excellence for both members and fellow volunteers.

Previous Winners

Year Name Chapter Institution
2026 Jason Hayes Sigma University of Central Missouri
2024 Randall “Randy” Hendren Sigma University of Central Missouri
2022 William Mast   Dalton State College
2020 John York Delta University of Kansas
2018 Riley Hupfer Gamma Upsilon Saginaw Valley State University
2016 Randall Hendren Sigma University of Central Missouri
2014 Kevin M. Long Kappa Purdue University
2012 John T. Linthicum Jr Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2010 W. Keith Shoemaker Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2008 W. Todd Hollinghead Beta Phi Auburn University
2006 Christopher E. Zarate Alpha Rho University of Texas- El Paso
2004 Robert L. Thomas Xi Truman State University
2002 Timothy R. Helmke Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2000 William R. Auchmoody Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
1995 Carol Hutcheson Beta Phi Auburn University
1995 Paul Galloway Kappa Purdue University

Alumni Distinguished Service Award

The Alumni Distinguished Service Award is one of the Fraternity of Alpha Kappa Lambda’s highest honors for alumni members. It is conferred upon an alumnus in good standing who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and service to the Fraternity, as well as distinguished achievements in their professional, academic, civic, or public life. Recipients of this award exemplify a lifelong commitment to leadership, integrity, and the advancement of the Fraternity’s mission. The recipient is formally selected by the National Executive Council (NEC) following a thorough review process.  This award recognizes alumni for their enduring contributions to Alpha Kappa Lambda, their commitment to the Five Ideals – particularly Loyalty – and their broader impact on their university, community, nation, and humanity.

Previous Winners

Year Name Chapter Institution
2026 Jonathan Cook Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2024 M. Bryant Gatrell Gamma Alpha University of Missouri
2020 Donald Enstrom Phi Oregon State University
2018 William “Bill” West Iota Kansas State University
2016 James Thompson Xi Truman State University
2014 Christopher W. Disher Gamma University of Illinois
2012 Patrick M. Allen Phi Oregon State University
2010 John M. Rains Alpha Zeta Northwest Missouri State University
2008 Gary L. Sherrer Lambda Emporia State University
2006 Richard T. Cruz Kappa Purdue University
2004 John E. Cakebread Alpha University of California- Berkeley
2002 William C. Porter Alpha Beta University of Arizona
1993 Thomas J. Snyder Delta University of Kansas
1992 Robert Lavern Matlock Gamma University of Illinois
1990 Loyal Hiram Davis Eta Washington State University
1989 James Gordon Emerson Jr. Beta Stanford University
1989 Allen F. Agnew Gamma University of Illinois
1987 Henry T. Moon Tau Penn. State University
1986 Arthur D. Hughes Eta Washington State University
1984 J. Glenn Hahn Delta University of Kansas
1964 Knowles A. Ryerson Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1962 Allen S. Drury Beta Stanford University
1962 Henry F. Engelbrecht Gamma University of Illinois
1962 Tarley Tarson Wiley Gamma University of Illinois
1962 Ernest A. Jones Zeta University of Michigan
1960 Frank B. Lenz Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1960 Oliver P. Smith Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1960 Irving Lee Dilliard Gamma University of Illinois
1960 George Dekay Kappa Purdue University
1958 Frank Bloomer Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1958 Lloyd C. Hall Alpha University of California- Berkeley
1958 Lloyd C. Morey Gamma University of Illinois
1958 Clarence E. Brehm Iota Kansas State University
1954 James W. Bell Theta University of Washington

Gilchrist “Man of Character” Award

The Gilchrist “Man of Character” Award was originally established in 2000 as the “Man of Character” Award and was renamed in 2004 to honor R. Keith Gilchrist (Kappa, ’53) and Ann Gilchrist (Alpha Omicron Pi). This prestigious award recognizes members who embody the principles of character, integrity, and the Five Ideals of Alpha Kappa Lambda. Recipients demonstrate unwavering commitment to ethical leadership, exemplary conduct, and service to their chapter, campus, and community. The award recipient is chosen by the National Executive Council (NEC), and selection is reserved for individuals whose actions and character consistently reflect the values and identity of a true Man of Character.

Previous Winners

Year Name Chapter Institution
2026 Nick Stinemate Alpha Phi University of Idaho
2024 Phillip Belkeir Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2018 Kevin Cook Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2016 Thomas Caruso Gamma Pi University of Connecticut
2014 Ed Aguilar Alpha University of California- Berkeley
  Ron Cassano Alpha University of California- Berkeley
  Eric Flett Alpha University of California- Berkeley
  Paul Foster Alpha University of California- Berkeley
  Ron Tierney Alpha University of California- Berkeley
2012 Steve Szumanski Gamma Iota Eastern Michigan University
2010 Dean Crader Gamma Alpha University of Missouri
2008 Ray Fitzgerald Alpha Lambda Northern Illinois University
2006 James Hamlett Delta University of Kansas
2004 Eric Boswell Beta Psi Missouri State University
2000 Jeremy Slivinski Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University

The National President’s Award

Established during Alpha Kappa Lambda’s 75th Anniversary year by National President Brent D. Holmes, the National President’s Award recognizes chapters that have demonstrated significant improvement in overall operations, collaboration, and programming, successfully overcoming challenges, strengthening internal cooperation, and elevating chapter performance.”

Previous Winners

Year Chapter Institution
2026 Gamma Delta University of Montevallo
2022 Gamma Omicron Dalton State College
2020 Gamma Beta University of Alabama
2016 Xi Truman State University
2014 Psi Iowa State University
2012 Alpha Lambda Northern Illinois University
2008 Xi Truman State University
2006 Beta Nu Virginia Commonwealth University
2004 Beta Psi Missouri State University