Phi Psi News
Special Guest to Speak at GAC
Phi Kappa Psi is extremely excited to have Stacey Walker, the 2006-07 National Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), as a featured guest and speaker at the upcoming Grand Arch Council (GAC), the Fraternity’s biennial governing convention. The 2010 GAC will take place from July 28 – August 1 at the Hilton in Walt Disney World Resort. Walker will speak on the morning of Saturday, July 31st.
To read the complete press release of this announcement, click here (Phi Psi Connect access required)
“The appearance by Stacey further strengthens our relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs as our national philanthropy,” said Shawn Collinsworth, Executive Director of Phi Kappa Psi. “For him to share his story to hundreds of our members should inspire more local partnerships with BGCA clubs.”
A member of the Boys & Girls Club of Cedar Rapids in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Walker had lost his mother at the age of 4, but the wisdom and strength of his grandmother carried him through, shaping him into a stellar young man.
The local club provided a means for Walker to excel. He started out as a member, but quickly transitioned into a mentor, role model and staff member. Through Passport to Manhood, a program that teaches young boys how to become responsible young men, he helped others escape their dim surroundings in hopes of pursuing brighter goals.
A successful athlete and student in high school, Walker became a strong member of the community, culminating in President George W. Bush presenting him with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, recognizing his civic contributions to the nation.
Walker recently graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in political science, with a background in economics.
The National Youth of the Year program, Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier character and leadership initiative, recognizes outstanding contributions to a Club member’s family, school, community and BGCA, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. Since the program’s inception in 1947, each National Youth of the Year has met with the President of the United States to formally accept the award and begin a one-year term as the teen spokesperson for all Boys & Girls Club members.
The young people who earn recognition as Youth of the Year are living proof that Boys & Girls Clubs work.
Phi Kappa Psi is proud to be partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs as our national philanthropy. With over 150 chapters, colonies and alumni associations, numerous partnerships with local BGCA clubs exist nationwide.
