The two years following the 150th anniversary in October 2023 have been transformational for our brotherhood. Following the 150th, we kicked off the most significant fundraising effort in our brotherhood’s history. Through the generosity of hundreds of brothers, we were able to make significant improvements to the physical plant at One University Circle: new HVAC, furniture, windows and blinds; updated electric and Wi-Fi; improved bathrooms; and many other changes, large and small – which are still ongoing.
But even more significant is a noticeable change in the culture of the house. The active brothers have been more engaged and committed to the long-term health of the house than in recent years. This is evidenced through an improved rush effort with commensurate results, more brothers living and eating meals at the house and the vastly improved financial health of the house – with 100% of brothers paying their financial obligations in full. The Phi Trustees are very pleased with these developments and do not think it is a coincidence that it coincides with the leadership of Phi President Sam Moran (Engr class of ’26) – the first Phi to hold the presidency for two terms.
When Sam was first elected in winter of 2023, he set the following goals: to increase active brother engagement, to increase the number of actives through a reenergized rush effort, and to improve Phi alumni relations. For Sam, these were more than just words written on a mission statement. By partnering with the actives and the Phi Board of Trustees, Sam brought these words to life. The state of the brotherhood, both active and alumni, is in terrific shape!
As most of you know, Sam is a Phi legacy, and both his parents are UVA grads. Here are the thoughts of his father Pat Moran (Engr class of ’95): “Phi Society’s down-to-earth authenticity drew Sam to the brotherhood, where he found a fit with Phis that are at ease being themselves, checking egos at the door, and ‘finding all the fun.’ Sam and I have loved sharing enduring traditions like living in the house, bands in the front yard, reunions, intramurals, HK and the esoteric unmentionables that all weave together through time as the fiber of our brotherhood.
“Buffy Moran (Col class of ’96) and I were thrilled to have the opportunity to be actively engaged with the Phi house for another four years, but even more we have proudly observed Sam’s character and leadership develop as chapter president. His innate yet nascent leadership has been forged through both the regular drumbeat of each semester’s routine, and also through the crucible of some very unique, very adult, and very existential challenges to Phi Society. Sam’s aptitude and appetite to lead combined with his passion for Phi Society at a critical time for the brotherhood.
“We take great pleasure knowing Sam’s investment in the brotherhood, and the brotherhood’s investment in Sam, will keep him engaged in a vibrant Phi Society for decades to come, as it has us. We can’t wait for the 155th!”
When asked to reflect on his time leading the house, Sam shared: “I appreciate the trust the fraternity vested in both me and the exec committee to realize our visions. I am honored to have been chosen to lead the house not only once, but for a second term. I am extremely proud of the culture, friendships and stability that that the actives and alumni have built.”