Phi Kappa Psi Mourns the Loss of Todd Salen
Salen
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — July 21, 2026 — It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of W. Todd Salen Illinois ’77 following an extended illness. Todd passed away on July 20 surrounded by the love of family and friends who remained by his side throughout his journey.
Todd’s impact on Phi Kappa Psi spanned nearly five decades of dedicated volunteer leadership, mentorship, and service. A member of the Order of the S.C., Todd devoted countless hours to strengthening chapters, educating members, and advancing the mission of the Fraternity at both the local and national levels. His commitment to developing young men and fostering lifelong brotherhood leaves a legacy that will be felt for generations.
Brother Salen’s service to Phi Kappa Psi included roles as Director of Alumni Relations and Associations (1982-1984), Director of Extension (1984-1988), Coordinator of Philanthropy (2004-2006), Volunteer Director of Community Service and Philanthropy (2018-2020), and Volunteer Director of Member Education (2022-2024). Across multiple decades, Todd was a constant presence at Phi Psi educational and leadership programs, serving as a facilitator and mentor at countless Presidents Leadership Academies (PLA), Future Executive Leadership Academies (FELA), District Councils, Regional Officer Trainings, and numerous other Fraternity events.
While Todd’s influence reached the national organization, his heart remained firmly rooted in Illinois Delta. As chapter GP and advisor, he helped guide generations of undergraduate brothers through both challenges and successes. As the treasurer of the chapter’s campaign committee, Todd played a pivotal role in the redevelopment and renovation of Illinois Delta’s historic Tudor-style chapter house on South Fourth Street in Champaign, helping secure a home that would continue to serve future generations of Phi Psis.
His passion for brotherhood was perhaps best demonstrated through the relationships he cultivated. Todd had a gift for making every brother feel welcome. For many Grand Arch Councils, he proudly hosted the biennial “Delta Hour,” creating an environment where undergraduates, young alumni, and seasoned volunteers could connect as equals. His warm personality, enthusiasm, and genuine interest in others served as a gateway for many brothers entering deeper involvement within the Fraternity.
Todd’s service extended beyond Illinois Delta, where he also worked closely with Illinois Epsilon and Michigan Alpha, offering guidance, mentorship, and steadfast support. His devotion to Phi Kappa Psi and its members earned him recognition as the Outstanding Chapter Advisor in 2008. In 2022, Todd was a recipient of the NIC Advisor Award for Distinction for his outstanding contributions as a chapter advisor.
In 2024, Phi Kappa Psi awarded Todd its highest honor, the Medal of Honor, recognizing a lifetime of extraordinary service and dedication to the Fraternity he loved so dearly.
Those who knew Todd will remember his unwavering optimism, his willingness to serve, and his belief that every brother deserved encouragement and support. His example demonstrated that leadership is not measured by titles, but by the lives touched, friendships built, and opportunities created for others.
The Salen family encourages memorial gifts to the “Make Every Day Matter Scholarship Fund,” established by Todd to support University of Illinois students involved in Greek life whose public and community service exemplify the values he championed throughout his life. Memorial contributions may be made at fsaffairs.illinois.edu/give.
If you would like information on an upcoming service for Todd, please fill out this form and Phi Psi Staff will send you information when it becomes available.
Make Every Day Matter Scholarship Fund
Established by Phi Kappa Psi alumnus, Todd Salen, the Make Every Day Matter Scholarship Fund supports undergraduate scholarships for students that are members of fraternities and sororities that demonstrate exemplary public and community service. Todd was inspired to start this fund due to the impact volunteerism and engagement had on his life while he was a student at Illinois. Students from any chapter in any council are eligible to apply for this scholarship.