National Leadership Roles
Phi Kappa Phi offers members the opportunity to serve in elected national leadership roles and help guide the future of the Society. These positions play a vital role in advancing the Society’s mission, strengthening governance, and supporting members and chapters nationwide.
As part of the Society’s governance evolution, national leadership roles are structured to enhance board effectiveness, ensure continuity, and support long-term strategic priorities.
Governance Model Update
Phi Kappa Phi has transitioned to an annual governance cycle with staggered board terms and online elections. These changes are a result of Phi Kappa Phi’s commitment to excellence in governance and its transformational work over the past 3 years.
- The President-Elect is elected every two years as in past elections.
- Following the 2026 election, approximately one-third of Directors are elected each year.
- Student Representatives are elected annually.
As established in the November 2025 Bylaws, the 2026 election cycle serves as a transition year to implement staggered terms for members of the Board of Directors and Student Representatives. During the 2026 election cycle, Directors and Student Representatives are assigned initial terms of varying lengths to establish a staggered election cycle. These transitional term assignments may extend or shorten current board member terms and are determined by the Governance Committee and Board of Directors based on voluntary agreement among its members.
Overall, this new governance model strengthens continuity and aligns with nonprofit governance best practices.
Elected National Leadership Roles
Board of Directors
President-Elect
Serves a six-year leadership progression:
- Two years as President-Elect
- Two years as President
- Two years as immediate Past President
Provides strategic leadership, serves on key committees, and supports overall governance and direction of the Society. Prior Phi Kappa Phi Board service and a demonstrated, long-term commitment to the Society are strongly preferred.
Six Directors
Serve three-year staggered terms. Directors participate in board governance, meetings, and committee service. Nominees should have demonstrated leadership at the chapter, institutional, or national level, and should bring personal and professional skills to the board based on the Society’s needs.
Two Student Representatives (Undergraduate and Graduate)
Serve as voting members of the board and represent student perspectives. These are typically one-year terms and require current student status for part of the service period.
Eligibility Requirements
- Active (dues-current) Phi Kappa Phi member
- Demonstrated leadership experience in academic, professional, or nonprofit settings
- Expertise or interest in governance, finance, fundraising, investment management, marketing, higher education, or organizational leadership
- Commitment to advancing the Society’s mission and strategic priorities
Term and Service
- President-elect track: Six years
- Director terms: Three-year staggered terms; may be renewed for one additional 3-year term
- Student Representative terms: One-year terms; may be renewed for one additional 1-year term
Service includes virtual meetings, board meetings as scheduled, and committee or leadership assignments. Expenses are covered in accordance with Society policies.
Elections and Participation
Elections are conducted through a delegate-based voting process, with each chapter selecting a representative to vote on behalf of its membership. This approach ensures broad representation across the Society while maintaining an efficient and consistent election process.
Questions?
For questions, please contact Executive Director and CEO Bradley Newcomer at execdirector@phikappaphi.org.