On Saturday February 21st, we will gather in Cincinnati, Ohio for our 2026 Great Lakes Conclave at University of Cincinnati, home of the Nu-Psi Chapter. It will be an eventful day of sharing ideas, meaningful discussion and great fellowship.

The Great Lakes Conclave will start promptly at 9:00 am on Saturday, February 22nd. Registration will open at 8:30am. Attendees should plan to arrive at University of Cincinnati by 8:40am.

As in prior years, we will be using a social media hashtag. Each attendee is encouraged to use #KSGLC26

We will be gathering for the 9:00 a.m. Opening Session in the Probasco Auditorium. A campus map is available here.

Date: Saturday February 21, 2026

When: 8:30 AM EDT - Coffee and Donuts Will Be Provided!

Where: University of Cincinnati, Probasco Auditorium - 2839 Clifton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Parking: For those staying at the Hotel Celare, plan to walk 6 minutes to Probasco Auditorium. For those driving in on Saturday, parking is available in the campus parking garages for $5.00. Search for: Clifton Court Garage, Woodside Parking Garage & Campus Green Garage. Click here to view parking rates for this parking deck.-->

Attire: Dress code is business casual: Shirt with collar, slacks with belt--No jeans, shorts or sweats. Sweaters, quarter zips or jackets are encouraged (we need to look good for the group photo.)

Bring: Something to take notes with during the sessions so you can take great ideas back.

Awards: To be eligible to win the Brother Boyd Bristle Trophy, you must submit a photo of your moustache in the GCL 2026 Cincinnati GroupMe or email by Thursday Midnight, Feb 19.

Social Media: Use #KSGLC26 on your social media platforms Tweet #KSGLC26

GroupMe: Join the KSGLC26 GroupMe

Euchre Bowl XXVI: 8:30-10:30 - Martinos, 2nd Floor - 2618 Short Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45219. Registration: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WCQ5CLD

Get Ready For The Best Great Lakes Conclave Yet Brothers!

SCHEDULE

10:35-11:25am

Champion Quest: Unlock your Chapters potential and develop a plan for success in recruitment/rush. In this session, we will discuss best practices and strategies for 365 recruitment on your campus. Leo J. Brown IV (Theta-Theta 2004), Vice President External Affairs - Kappa Sigma Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

Grand Master Workshop: Are you interested in becoming Grand Master or currently are one? Come and learn about being the leader and face of your chapter and discuss current issues of the office. Paul Clark (Delta-Zeta 2019), DGM Eastern Canada Clifton Court Hall 1140

BIA for Members: Member Retreats & Other Programs: BIA, is it just the name for our pledge program? This session we take a closer look at this mostly ignored program and how it could bring your members closer together, help them become more successful on campus and after graduation! Brother Garett Reinhart, Alumnus Advisor, Nu-Psi Chapter will provide examples chapters have used to stand out for providing the Best Fraternity experience in a sea of pathetic frats. Garett Reinhart (Nu-Psi 2017), Alumnus Advisor, Nu-Psi Chapter Clifton Court Hall 1130

AGC – Making a Difference in Your Community: Come learn the essential principles of community outreach and planning for your AGC / MHC events. Join Brother Brandon Bounds, ADGM-AGC Southwest Ohio District to learn more about the positive impact that you can make in your community. Brandon Bounds (Epsilon-Rho, 2016), ADGM- AGC Southwest Ohio District Clifton Court Hall 1120

Grand Procurator Workshop: Providing current and future Grand Procurators an opportunity to discuss best practices, current hot issues and other information they feel is relevant to this position. Aaron Carr (Tau-Nu 2019), DGM Greater Kentucky Brendan Clark (Delta-Zeta 2019), DGM Michigan Clifton Court Hall 1110

Volunteering 201: Advanced Planning (Volunteers): Building upon Kappa Sigma's plan for success, this session will discuss how advanced planning in Chapter and District operations will set your Chapters up for greater success. Dan Tierney (Theta-Nu 1999), Past Worthy Grand Scribe, Volunteer Training Clifton Court Hall 1210

11:35-12:25pm

Values in Action: Ending Hazing, Preventing Overdose, Strengthening Brotherhood: Exclusive Preview: This evidence‑informed, interactive chapter training was developed by the University of Virginia’s Gordie Center and Kappa Sigma Fraternity to strengthen safety, belonging, and values‑driven decision-making. Designed to create environments of belonging that eliminate hazing and alcohol overdose, the session dispels common myths about the perceived benefits of hazing, highlights the hidden harms of hazing, and emphasizes that no one can consent to hazing. Participants will learn to recognize the PUBS signs of alcohol overdose, understand how and when to intervene, and enhance pledge programs. This session marks first preview of new material that Kappa Sigma will be sharing at the Leadership Conference and across the fraternity next year. Please attend one of these two sessions and if you have feedback please bring it to the 3:30- 4:20 p.m. Session in Clifton Court Hall 1210. Susie Bruce, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Jill Maurer, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

Big Chapter Challenges - Roundtable Discussion: Chapters with 90 or more members face different challenges than small or medium size chapter. If you are a leader of a 90+ member chapter come participate in a roundtable discussion to share what you've learned and hear from other leaders about how they have tackled certain challenges. The discussion will be moderated by Brothers Leighton Dupree, AA of Beta-Nu and Luke King, AAA Theta-Upsilon and former GT & GM. Leighton Dupree (Beta-Nu 2015 ), AA-Beta-Nu Luke King (Theta-Upsilon 2022), AAA-Theta-Upsilon Clifton Court Hall 1140

You made it! You are a member! Now what?: Join Ryan Staten ADGM - Greater Kentucky for a conversation on different ways and strategies for new members to get involved in their chapters and on campus. Ryan Staten (Mu-Eta 2008), Assistant District Grand Master, Greater Kentucky Clifton Court Hall 1130

Military Heroes Campaign: Building a Signature Event: Building a signature Military Heroes event is about more than planning a fundraiser. It is about defining what your chapter stands for. Learn how to create a Military Heroes event that your chapter can rally behind year after year. Establish a clear purpose, build a repeatable structure, engage the full brotherhood, and lay the foundation for long-term impact. Jonah Hartswick (Epsilon-Rho 2013), A Greater Cause Commissioner, Past DGM Northern Ohio Kayin McDonald (Theta-Upsilon 2022), (Theta-Nu, Ashland University, '21) Co-Founder: In a Soldier’s Shoes Foundation Clifton Court Hall 1120

Grand Scribe Workshop: So you've been elected Grand Scribe (or want to be!)... Now what? Join Brothers Jon Boyajian, DGM Northern Ohio and Brian Proffer, AA-Omicron-Rho to learn more about the role and your part in the success of your Chapter. Jon Boyajian (Pi-Rho 2009) DGM Northern Ohio, Colony Commission Brian Proffer (Omicron-Rho 2007), AA-Omicron-Rho, Past DGM Michigan Clifton Court Hall 1110

Open Secrets of Kappa Sigma: INITIATES ONLY. An in depth look at the history surrounding the European and American foundings of Kappa Sigma that helps provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of our precious Ritual with PWGS Dan Tierney. Dan Tierney (Theta-Nu 1999), Past Worthy Grand Scribe, Volunteer Training Clifton Court Hall 1210

LUNCH

1:25-2:15pm

Values in Action: Ending Hazing, Preventing Overdose, Strengthening Brotherhood: Exclusive Preview: This evidence‑informed, interactive chapter training was developed by the University of Virginia’s Gordie Center and Kappa Sigma Fraternity to strengthen safety, belonging, and values‑driven decision-making. Designed to create environments of belonging that eliminate hazing and alcohol overdose, the session dispels common myths about the perceived benefits of hazing, highlights the hidden harms of hazing, and emphasizes that no one can consent to hazing. Participants will learn to recognize the PUBS signs of alcohol overdose, understand how and when to intervene, and enhance pledge programs. This session marks first preview of new material that Kappa Sigma will be sharing at the Leadership Conference and across the fraternity next year. Please attend one of these two sessions and if you have feedback please bring it to the 3:30- 4:20 p.m. Session in Clifton Court Hall 1210. Susie Bruce, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Jill Maurer, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

Small Chapter Challenges - Roundtable discussion: Chapters with less than 35 members face numerous challenges than medium and large chapters don't. If you are a leader of a small Chapter come participate in a roundtable discussion to share what you've learned and hear from other leaders about how they have tackled certain challenges you have in common. The discussion will be moderated by Brothers Ryan Staten, ADGM Greater Kentucky and Brian Proffer Alumnus Advisor, Omicron-Rho. Ryan Staten (Mu-Eta 2008), Assistant District Grand Master, Greater Kentucky Brian Proffer (Omicron-Rho 2007), AA-Omicron-Rho, Past DGM Michigan Clifton Court Hall 1140

BIA for Pledges Program: More Than the Slides: The Brotherhood In Action Program for Pledges is not a box to check. It is a defining leadership moment. Move beyond simply presenting slides and learn how to deliver BIA in a way that shapes culture, reinforces expectations, and sets a clear standard from day one. Discover how to facilitate meaningful discussion, command the room with confidence, and ensure pledges understand what it truly means to wear the badge. Jonah Hartswick (Epsilon-Rho 2013), A Greater Cause Commissioner, Past DGM Northern Ohio Clifton Court Hall 1130

Risk Management - Balancing Brotherhood and Safety: Understanding Risk and the fine line between fun and consequences is critical to every Chapter. Whether you are the GP, GM, GMC, Risk Management Chair or just a brother that wants to make sure your Chapter is around past your graduation, bring your questions to this thought- provoking session led by Nick Gallicchio, Conduct Team Lead. Nick Gallicchio (Xi-Upsilon 2002), Conduct Team Lead Clifton Court Hall 1120

Communications and using the Kappa Sigma Brand: Discover how to build a campus‑dominant brand that attracts the right men and elevates your chapter’s reputation. Brother Michael Malenic breaks down the science of branding and shows PR and Social Media Chairmen can use Kappa Sigma’s brand assets to create a strategic advantage. Michael Malenic (Xi-Upsilon 2002), (Pi-Rho 2016) Communications and Publications Coordinator - Kappa Sigma Clifton Court Hall 1110

Beating Apathy in your Chapter: Limit 2 people per chapter: One of the most common questions asked by Chapter officers is "How do I fight apathy." Join Wes Bren DGM - Southwest Ohio and Leighton Dupree, AA of Beta-Nu in an interactive session that will help you identify the root causes of your problem and generate an action plan change the situation with leadership. Wes Bren (Theta-Upsilon 1985) DGM Southwest Ohio Leighton Dupree (Beta-Nu 2015 ) AA-Beta-Nu Clifton Court Hall 1210

Ask the WGMC – Advisors Session: This session gives volunteers an opportunity to engage with the Worthy Grand Master ofCeremonies, ask questions, and discuss the issues shaping Kappa Sigma’s challenges and success today. Join an open, candid conversation designed to strengthen collaboration and impact. Nicholas E. Snowberger (Theta-Zeta 2001), Worthy Grand Master of Ceremonies Clifton Court Hall 1200

2:25-3:15pm

Your Questions - Undergraduate Panel: This session features an outstanding and diverse undergraduate panel made up of current and former Executive Committee officers and our own UAC Area 3 delegate answering your questions. The discussion will be moderated by Brother Nicholas Snowberger, Worthy Grand Master of Ceremonies and is sure to provide a range of ideas for addressing commonly shared challenges. Trevor Pollock (Epsilon-Eta, Bowling Green State University, '23) - UAC Area 3, GMC, CQ Chair - FACE 2025 Brendan Phillips (Phi-Epsilon, Ohio University, '24) UAC Area 3 2025, GP, AGS, AGC Chair Nick Ellis (Tau-Mu, Capital University, '23) GMC at Mu-Eta, University of Louisville, CQ Chair William Fultz (Rho-Psi, Corpus Christi, Texas, '24) GM at Beta-Nu, University of Kentucky Jackson Havel (Tau-Mu, Capital University, '22) GM 2 terms, MHC, CQ Chair - FACE 2025 Moderated by Nicholas E. Snowberger (Theta-Zeta 2001), Worthy Grand Master of Ceremonies Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

F.A.C.E. Moneyball: Winning is measurable. Join DGMs Jonah Hartswick and Paul Clark as they break down the numbers behind Best of the Best, F.A.C.E. standards, and the key metrics that separate good chapters from great ones. Learn where chapters commonly miss points, how to leverage the data you already have, and how to intentionally build toward recognition. If you want to hear your chapter’s name called at Conclave, it starts with understanding the standard and executing against it. Jonah Hartswick (Epsilon-Rho 2013), A Greater Cause Commissioner, Past DGM Northern Ohio Paul Clark (Delta-Zeta 2019), DGM Eastern Canada Clifton Court Hall 1140

Grand Master of Ceremonies Workshop: INITIATES ONLY. Are you a current GMC or thinking about running for the position? Come learn more about the roles and responsibilities of being a GMC and how a good GMC can alter the trajectory of your chapter for the better. Brendan Clark (Delta-Zeta 2019), DGM Michigan District Tim Brinkmeyer (Chi, 2008), DGM Indiana & Illinois District Clifton Court Hall 1130

Grand Treasurer Workshop: Looking to take on the responsibility of managing your fraternity’s finances? In this workshop, we’ll guide you through the key responsibilities, skills, and best practices for being a successful treasurer. Garett Reinhart (Nu-Psi, 2017) Alumnus Advisor, Nu-Psi Chapter Michael Pucak (Chi, 2008), (Omicron-Sigma, 2012) Alumnus Advisor, Epsilon-Eta Chapter Clifton Court Hall 1120

Scholarship Program: How to exceed the All-Men’s Average: Do you want your chapter to compete for the Silver Bowl Award? Join Austin Hall, ADGM - Scholarship Southwest Ohio District to learn about several different strategies to implement a Scholarship Program for your Chapter. Austin Hall (Xi-Epsilon, 2014), ADGM Scholarship, Southwest Ohio, AAA – Xi-Epsilon & Nu-Psi Clifton Court Hall 1110

Advisors Only - Values in Action: Advisor Leadership in Ending Hazing, Preventing Overdose, and Building Stronger Brotherhood: This evidence‑informed, interactive training was developed by the University of Virginia’s Gordie Center and Kappa Sigma Fraternity to assist advisors in strengthening safety, belonging, and values‑driven decision-making among undergraduate members. Designed to assist advisors in creating environments of belonging that eliminate hazing and alcohol overdose, the session dispels common myths about the perceived benefits of hazing, highlights the hidden harms of hazing, and emphasizes that no one can consent to hazing. Advisors will learn to recognize the PUBS signs of alcohol overdose, expectations to actively prevent hazing, and how to enhance pledge programs. Susie Bruce, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Jill Maurer, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

3:30-4:20pm

Your Questions - Career Panel: Wondering what to expect after graduation? This panel with alumni who’ve walked very different career paths will pull back the curtain giving you a wide-angle view of what early professional life actually looks like! They will share what surprised them in their first jobs, how they built credibility, and the mistakes they wish they had avoided. You’ll also hear perspectives on AI, shifting industries, and how to stay relevant in a world that’s changing fast. Come ready to take notes—and ask the questions you won’t find answered on Google. CJ Elston, Associate R&D Technology Specialist, Nestle, (Theta-Xi, Trine University 2020), serving as AA at Tau-Mu Chapter, Capital University and Master of Ritual Austin Araco, Distribution Center Manager, The Hillman Group (Tau-Zeta, Arkansas State University 2014), serving as AA at Theta-Upsilon, Miami University, former AA at Nu-Psi, University of Cincinnati Rob Lowe, CEO, Mahalo Software (Alpha-Zeta, University of Michigan 1993), serving as AA Alpha-Zeta, University of Michigan William Fultz (Rho-Psi, Corpus Christi, Texas, '24) GM at Beta-Nu, University of Kentucky Jackson Havel (Tau-Mu, Capital University, '22) GM 2 terms, MHC, CQ Chair - FACE 2025 Moderated by Nicholas E. Snowberger (Theta-Zeta 2001), Worthy Grand Master of Ceremonies Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

Colony Challenges - Roundtable Discussion -Special session for Colonies & Interest Groups: Starting a Colony presents members with many new challenges. If you are a member or leader of a Colony come participate in a roundtable discussion to hear from others about how they are tackling challenges you have in common. The discussion will be moderated by DGM Northern Ohio, Jon Boyajian (Pi-Rho 2009) who is on the Colony Commission and Brian Proffer (Omicron-Rho 2007), AA-Omicron-Rho. Jon Boyajian (Pi-Rho 2009) DGM Northern Ohio, Colony Commission Brian Proffer (Omicron-Rho 2007), AA-Omicron-Rho, Past DGM Michigan Clifton Court Hall 1140

Ritual, Not Rote: Gaining a deeper appreciation for our ritual, not just memorizing it. INITIATES ONLY.: Join Brothers Ryan Staten, ADGM Greater Kentucky and Tim Brinkmeyer, DGM Indiana & Illinois District for a thought-provoking dive into the deeper meaning of our ritual that will increase your appreciation of it and add new motivational fuel to those working on memorizing it. Practical tips to improve your Ritual Proficiency program at your Chapter will also be shared. Ryan Staten (Mu-Eta 2008), Assistant District Grand Master, Greater Kentucky Tim Brinkmeyer (Chi, 2008), DGM Indiana & Illinois District Clifton Court Hall 1130

Raising the Fun with Fundraising: Whether you want to grow your chapter's savings, reduce your dues, or plan a legendary formal weekend it all comes down to one thing....money. Join past DGM, Northern Ohio Jonah Hartswick as he breaks down the planning and execution of fundraisers to boost your brotherhood. Jonah Hartswick (Epsilon-Rho 2013), A Greater Cause Commissioner, Past DGM Northern Ohio Clifton Court Hall 1120

Establishing a Strong Alumni Base: So you wish your alumni supported your Chapter more? Financially? Job Connections? Join Wes Bren, DGM - Southwest Ohio and board member of his Chapter's Alumni Association to learn about the 3 issues that hamper most efforts and the 4 keys any Chapter, new or old can use to unlock the potential of their alumni. Wes Bren (Epsilon-Rho 2013), (Theta-Upsilon 1985) DGM Southwest Ohio Clifton Court Hall 1110

Your feedback on the Gordie Center’s programs: For undergraduates and Advisors. This feedback session will gather input on the two Values in Action: Ending Hazing, Preventing Overdose, Strengthening Brotherhood programs. If you attended either session, please join us to provide feedback to improve the program before the national rollout to all Kappa Sigma chapters in July! This collaborative conversation helps ensure the program will foster safer environments, stronger belonging, and values‑driven brotherhood when released this fall. Susie Bruce, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Jill Maurer, Director, Gordie Center at the University of Virginia Leo J. Brown IV (Theta-Theta 2004), Vice President External Affairs - Kappa Sigma Clifton Court Hall 1210

4:30-5:00pm

Southwest Ohio District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1170 - Auditorium

Indiana/Illinois District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1140

Greater Kentucky District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1130

Michigan District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1120

Eastern Canada District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1110

Northern Ohio District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1210

Southeast Ohio District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 1200

Western PA District Meeting Clifton Court Hall 2150

5:00-7:00pm

Networking Reception: Onsite Immediately following District Meetings Join us for a casual networking reception immediately following the final session, featuring warm appetizers, a cash bar with Kentucky bourbon and Brother Tito’s vodka, wine and local craft beer, and complimentary soda and water. This is a great chance to connect with brothers and volunteers from across the region and continue the conversations sparked throughout the conference, exchange contact information before heading out. Please drink responsibly! Do not take alcohol outside the second floor seating area. Cash bar will be located in Clifton Court Hall 2140. Credit card payments only. Proper ID required.