Program & Events
APO SPARK
Not your father’s workshop - it’s all about the passion and joy of Brotherhood! This is a fully interactive workshop that explores how we feel about being Brothers and how that influences our daily lives. Have you experienced the spark? How will you know when it hits you? What the heck is it, anyway! This workshop will explore how APO affects your body, your mind and your spirit. Come share your experiences and be a part of the workshop that all your Brothers will be talking about long after the conference!
Matt Bailey
Matt is a community advisor for the Alpha Gamma Xi chapter at the University of Dayton and the Delta Alpha chapter at the University of Cincinnati. He has held many roles at the sectional, regional, and national levels of Alpha Phi Omega, including Region 5 Chair, Section 56 Chair, and National Convention Coordinator (2016).
Always a strong proponent of conferences, Matt has attended/staffed/planned/enjoyed over 125 conferences during his 25+ years in APO. A recovering bylaws addict, Matt enjoys the drama the comes with the legislative floor at the national convention. With brothers Tommy Brennan and Brian Martin, he co-authored the APO Spark workshop, an impactful, interactive experience designed to help brothers think about, talk about, and celebrate their brotherhood in new and fun ways. He has presented this workshop for nearly fifteen years within the fraternity.
Professionally, Matt works as a registered nurse and manages the organ donation process as part of the organ procurement organization covering Northern California and Northern Nevada. Matt cares deeply about organ donors and their families and takes pride in providing compassionate end-of-life care and affording everyone the opportunity to save a life.
Connected & Committed: Innovative Team Building Practices
Back by popular demand, Brother BJ Narwold returns with an exciting new edition of her acclaimed workshop! "Connected & Committed: Innovative Team Building Practices" offers a fresh perspective on creating stronger, more cohesive teams within your chapter and sections.
​
In this revamped workshop, you'll explore the vital role of team building and learn practical exercises designed to enhance collaboration and communication. We’ll dive into the rationale behind effective team dynamics and provide hands-on activities using easily accessible materials, perfect for any budget.
​
Join us to discover engaging strategies and techniques that will elevate your team’s synergy and performance. Don't miss this opportunity to foster unity and commitment in your group!
BJ Narwold
​Barbara Jo "BJ" Narwold earned her Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Northern Kentucky University in 2015. She joined Alpha Phi Omega in Fall 2011 and has since taken on numerous leadership roles at the chapter, section, regional, and national levels. Her focus has included membership education, interchapter relations, advisor and alumni relations, and she served as Section H2 Chair (formerly Section 46) from 2015 to 2019.
A first-generation college student with a deep commitment to community and service, BJ found these values reflected in Alpha Phi Omega when she joined the Alpha Gamma Phi chapter during her sophomore year. She continues to contribute this through her team-building and icebreaker workshops, advising the regional conference committee, and serving as the advisory chair for the Alpha Gamma Phi chapter.
With nearly a decade of experience in higher education, BJ began her career as a Testing Coordinator at Northern Kentucky University in 2015. She has also held various roles in customer experience at Vector Solutions, focusing on process enhancement and support for their educational solutions. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s in Education with a focus on Educational Technology and Instructional Design at Western Governor's University. Her goal is to develop effective corporate training programs for diverse learning needs.
BJ is honored to serve as the conference advisor and is eager to reintroduce student-led conferences and strengthen the fraternity community.
Risk Management
Have you ever planned an event and wondered could we get in trouble for this? Have you been put into a difficult situation and not known how to handle it or who to call? This workshop will go through each section of the Risk Management policy and help you answer all the what if questions.
Sabrina Zurhorst
Sabrina was initiated by the Zeta Rho Chapter at Wittenberg University during their rechartering in 2016. During her time as an active, she served as President, Service Vice President, and Pledgemaster. Sabrina served as the H6 Section Chair from 2019-2023. During her time as Section Chair she focused on building a section staff and strengthening inter-chapter relations throughout her section. Sabrina was elected to serve as the Region H Chair at the Indianapolis National Convention in 2023. Professionally, Sabrina is a Store Leader for Giant Eagle where she oversees day-to-day operations. Sabrina is also a member of the Women's Business Resource Group with Giant Eagle where she advocates for the success and opportunities for women at Giant Eagle. Sabrina lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, daughter, and two fur babies.
Motivating a Small Chapter
Unlock the full potential of your Alpha Phi Omega chapter with this dynamic workshop! Designed specifically for chapter leaders and members, this interactive session will provide you with practical strategies and inspiring techniques to boost engagement, enthusiasm, and participation within your small chapter.
Olivia Collins
Olivia Collins pledged the Delta Alpha chapter at the University of Cincinnati in the fall of 2021 and currently serves as the Chapter President. Olivia has served in many roles in her time being a brother. Olivia has served by being the Pledge Educator in the 2022-23 year, and the Chapter President from 2023-present. Olivia has been a voting delegate for the 2022, 2023 Sectional Conference and the National Convention in 2023. She has also served on the APO 2027 Site Selection Committee. Olivia will complete her degree in Special Education this upcoming Spring. Olivia loves to spend time with her friends and traveling the world!
APO History / Ceremonies and Rituals
Dive deep into the rich heritage of Alpha Phi Omega with this engaging workshop! This immersive session is designed for members who wish to deepen their understanding of the fraternity’s history, appreciate the significance of its ceremonies, and master the execution of its rituals.
John Strada
John Strada is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Communication at Eastern Kentucky University, bringing nearly 30 years of collegiate teaching experience to the classroom. His primary academic interests are interpersonal, group and instructional communication, advocacy, and issues in higher education leadership, policy and teaching. John is a member of the Kentucky Communication Association, Phi Kappa Phi, Omicron Delta Kappa, Toastmasters International, is an honorary member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and is a proud member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels.
John’s biggest passion is service. In 2017, he was honored with AmeriCorps’ President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteer service, and in 2021 he received the Kentucky Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Service Award. He has served on the board of directors and the national operations council for Alpha Phi Omega, as well as serving as a national program director, regional director/chair, section chair, and as a local chapter advisor. He has served as a learning partner for EKU alternative break trips, as an onsite director for education abroad programs, served for 3 years as EKU's first faculty in Residence, and is the current announcer and name reader for EKU graduation ceremonies. John currently serves Alpha Phi Omega as the Region I Chair.
Pledge Education
Elevate your chapter’s pledge program with this insightful workshop! Designed for pledge educators, chapter leaders, and advisors, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies to deliver a meaningful and impactful pledge education experience.
Zach Beach
Zach joined APO in the fall of 2014 at the Zeta Kappa chapter at Bowling Green State University. During his time as an active member he served as the chapter’s online marketing and socials chair for one year and one semester as a new member educator while being very active in recruiting in between those roles.
​
Ever since graduating he has served on section staff assisting in recruiting ideas and efforts and have been the Section H3 chair since the spring of 2023. He currently works as a web designer for medical clients such as Atrium Health, Carolina’s College of Health Sciences, and Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
Pledge Education
Elevate your chapter’s pledge program with this insightful workshop! Designed for pledge educators, chapter leaders, and advisors, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies to deliver a meaningful and impactful pledge education experience.
Peter Connely
Peter is an enthusiastic educator currently teaching high school science at New Lebanon Local School District. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from the University of Dayton, he made a significant career transition into education, where he has quickly established himself as a passionate advocate for student learning.
​
Peter began his teaching career as a substitute teacher, providing instruction in subjects such as Geometry, Chemistry, and Spanish at Grove City High School. His recent appointment as a full-time science teacher reflects his commitment to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment. Peter is dedicated to helping students explore the wonders of Physical Science and Chemistry while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
​
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Peter remains active in the community through his involvement with the Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity, where he has held leadership roles, including Section Chair. His background in business and marketing enhances his approach to education, allowing him to bring real-world applications into the classroom.
​
Outside of teaching, Peter enjoys engaging with students and fellow educators, continually seeking ways to innovate his teaching practices and contribute to student success. He is excited about this new chapter in his career and looks forward to inspiring his students in the years to come.
Centennial Celebration
Join us for a grand celebration of Alpha Phi Omega’s remarkable journey with our workshop, "Celebrating a Century: The Centennial of Alpha Phi Omega." Presented by one of APO's past national presidents, This special session is designed for members, alumni, and chapter leaders who want to honor the fraternity’s 100-year legacy and explore ways to make this centennial celebration truly unforgettable.
Mark Stratton
Mark Stratton is an experienced professional specializing in redistricting and data analysis. As the Co-Manager of the Office of Census Data at the Legislative Services Agency in Indiana, Mark has dedicated over 26 years to collecting and analyzing election data to prepare the legislature for effective redistricting processes. His expertise includes managing geographic boundary files and utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to enhance the agency's analytical capabilities.
​
In addition to his primary role, Mark serves as one of Indiana's liaisons to the U.S. Bureau of the Census's Redistricting Data Program, a position designated by the governor and legislative leaders. He regularly presents testimony and insights to legislative committees, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about redistricting and electoral policy.
​
Mark is also an Associate Faculty member at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, where he teaches courses in Political Science, including Introduction to American Politics and Introduction to Public Policy. His academic background includes both BA and MA degrees in Political Science from Ball State University, where he was actively involved in various student organizations.
​
With proficiency in tools such as ArcGIS and a commitment to data visualization, Mark continuously seeks to improve the ways in which data is presented and utilized in the legislative process. He is passionate about fostering informed decision-making through accessible and well-analyzed data.
Getting Involved Outside of Your Chapter
Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop designed to explore opportunities for making an impact and getting involved beyond your chapter. Led by Kaylee Adkins, Section H5 Chair, this session will provide valuable insights into how you can expand your involvement within the broader community and organization.
​
In this workshop, you will:
- Discover various ways to engage with regional and national APO initiatives.
- Learn strategies for effective networking and collaboration with other chapters.
- Participate in interactive activities to identify opportunities outside of your chapter.
​
Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, broaden your horizons, or contribute to the larger APO mission, this workshop will equip you with the tools and inspiration to take your involvement to the next level.
Kaylee Adkins
Kaylee Adkins has been an active member of Alpha Phi Omega since pledging to the Xi Upsilon Chapter at the University of Mount Union in fall 2020. Having held several executive roles, she now serves as the Section H5 Chair. Professionally, Kaylee is a dedicated first-grade teacher who is passionate about inspiring her students and fostering a love of learning.
Event Planning
Join us for an engaging and comprehensive workshop designed for aspiring event planners and those looking to enhance their skills in creating unforgettable experiences! Whether you’re planning a chapter, service, or interchapter, event this workshop will equip you with the essential tools and strategies needed to bring your vision to life.
Kaylee Adkins
My name is Sarah Mullins, and I proudly serve as the President of the Alpha Eta Rho chapter at Ohio University-Lancaster. Since pledging in Fall 2022, I’ve had the privilege of holding the role of Vice President of Service before stepping into my current position. I'm a senior majoring in Communication Studies with a minor in Psychology. Outside of APO, I’m passionate about coaching tennis, playing pickleball, gaming, and spending time outdoors hiking with my dog, Blu
DEI
Join us for a transformative workshop, "Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Alpha Phi Omega," where we will explore how to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment within your chapter and the broader APO community. This session is designed for members, leaders, and advisors who are committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and want to create a welcoming space for all.
Laura Hutchinson
I am an allyship educator and consultant, committed to revolutionizing diversity, equity, and inclusion education. I have a Master of Science in Education, focused on college student personnel, and have worked closely with college students for more than a decade. I have worked in corporate finance, hospitality, retail, faith-based non-profit, and higher education.
​
I help communities practice proactive and authentic inclusion. Through my focus on intersectional LGBTQ+ support, I have learned many strategies for seeing, understanding, empowering people on the margins, and collaborating with them and those in power to affect organizational change.
Finance and Fundraising
Interested in learning more about how your chapter can boost fundraising engagement? This workshop is for you! This interactive workshop will provide conference goers with the opportunity to discuss finance/fundraising related topics with Dee and other brothers. Dee will cover an overview of the responsibility of being a chapter treasurer or financial advisor, review reporting requirements to institutions, national office, and state/federal taxes, and the presentation will wrap up with a roundtable discussion to cover all things fundraising! What is your chapter struggling with? What have you found success in for your chapter, what new and exciting funding opportunities are available to your chapter that you haven't tapped into yet? This is not a workshop you'll want to miss!
Dee Divittis
Dee Divittis (they/them) pledged at the Alpha Gamma Upsilon chapter Carlow University in Pittsburgh, PA in 2013. As a collegian, they served in several leadership roles for their chapter and beyond, including chapter president and section conference chair. At the 2016 National Convention, Dee was on the reference committee that changed the toast song! In 2017, they were awarded the Carlow University Trailblazer award for their involvement in Alpha Phi Omega and various other student organizations. They are also a proud Life Member of the fraternity. As an alumnus, Dee has been on the Region H staff since 2020. They have presented at many APO conferences since on topics such as finance/fundraising, taxes, leadership programming, and DE&I. Outside of APO, Dee has 2 orange tabby cats and enjoys traveling to Pennsylvania often to visit family, including 2 nieces! Professionally, they are currently working as a sales and use tax consultant out of Columbus, OH and serves as treasurer of the Board of Directors for Have a Gay Day, Inc. Dee is so excited to get to know new bros at the Region H conference!
Robert's Rules For Dummies: Who's Robert?
Have you been to a business meeting and heard things like "motion", "point of order", and wondered what they are? Robert's Rules For Dummies: Who's Robert will give you the background for running a business meeting, how to vote, and how to be involved in a business meeting. We will briefly talk about the history, dive into the do's and don'ts of a business meeting, and have a mock business meeting to vote on a region mascot. Join us for a fun and interactive session on legislative procedures.
Jordan Herman
Jordan is in his 5th year at the University of Cincinnati studying Computer Science and Business Administration. Jordan pledged in the spring of 2022 and served his chapter as Pledge Class President, Vice President of Membership for two terms, Treasurer, and Sergeant at Arms. In April 2023, Jordan received a Chapter Distinguished Service Key in recognition of his service and dedication to Delta Alpha.
​
Outside of Alpha Phi Omega, Jordan loves college football, spending time with friends, and developing communication software. Jordan is a Head Resident Advisor over two communities on campus, and helps nearly 500 residents and 15 staff members live, learn, and grow together.
Since pledging, this will be Jordans 6th conference and first time serving as a conference chair. Jordan is passionate about creating the best conference possible with the inclusion of student presenters, interactive programming, and incorporating LFS into each part of the conference. Jordan is very excited to welcome everyone to Dayton this fall and cannot wait to bring Region H home.Jordan is in his 5th year at the University of Cincinnati studying Computer Science and Business Administration. Jordan pledged in the spring of 2022 and served his chapter as Pledge Class President, Vice President of Membership for two terms, Treasurer, and Sergeant at Arms. In April 2023, Jordan received a Chapter Distinguished Service Key in recognition of his service and dedication to Delta Alpha.
Outside of Alpha Phi Omega, Jordan loves college football, spending time with friends, and developing communication software. Jordan is a Head Resident Advisor over two communities on campus, and helps nearly 500 residents and 15 staff members live, learn, and grow together.
Since pledging, this will be Jordans 6th conference and first time serving as a conference chair. Jordan is passionate about creating the best conference possible with the inclusion of student presenters, interactive programming, and incorporating LFS into each part of the conference. Jordan is very excited to welcome everyone to Dayton this fall and cannot wait to bring Region H home.
Servant Leadership
Discover the transformative power of servant leadership! This interactive session is designed for chapter leaders, members, and advisors who want to deepen their understanding of servant leadership principles and apply them to their roles within the fraternity.
Sean Gardner
Bio coming soon
"A Scout Is - Implementing Scouting into Your Service Program"
In this engaging course, participants will explore the valuable intersection between Scouting and Alpha Phi Omega. Attendees will gain insights into how Scouting principles can enhance your service program, creating meaningful community impact. We will delve into ways to connect with local Scout units and councils, uncovering collaborative service opportunities that get members outdoors and involved. Additionally, the course will highlight strategies to promote Alpha Phi Omega through these scouting activities, fostering growth and attracting future members. Join us to discover how integrating Scouting into your service initiatives can enrich your chapter’s mission and outreach.
Terry Aufermann
Terry Aufermann pledged Alpha Phi Omega in the Fall of 2012 as a sophomore with the Delta Alpha Chapter at the University of Cincinnati. He took on a leadership role as chapter president from 2014 to 2015 and is now a lifetime member. Outside of APO, Terry is an Eagle Scout and actively contributes to Scouting through the Dan Beard Council and Scouting America. He currently serves as the scouting advisor for the Delta Alpha Chapter and is a member of the Camping Committee of the Dan Beard Council. Terry holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Indiana and is a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. He works in Organizational Effectiveness as the Market Planning Manager for St. Elizabeth Physicians in Northern Kentucky. Terry resides in Cincinnati with his fiancée Megan and their dog, Chia.
.jpg)
Building Careers: Developing Professional Skills Through Alpha Phi Omega
Unlock the potential for career growth and professional development with our workshop, "Building Careers: Developing Professional Skills Through Alpha Phi Omega." This session is designed for members and leaders who want to leverage their APO experiences to build and enhance essential professional skills that are valuable in any career path.
Caleb Howell
Caleb Howell is a Fall 2012 initiate of the Delta Gamma chapter at Ohio University. As an active he was VP of Membership, VP of Service, and VP of Leadership as well as attending various conferences and leadership development events. Caleb graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Human and Consumer Sciences with a focus in Customer Service Leadership and Retail Merchandising and Fashion Product Development. After a brief stint in retail Caleb graduated in 2019 with a Master of Higher Education and Student Affairs. In the time since graduating Caleb has worked at various colleges doing academic advising, crisis intervention, and human resources. Now he is a sales recruiter for Horace Mann Teachers Corporation and focuses on newer graduates and building a younger sales workforce. In APhiO, Caleb is the Deputy Region H Chair/Region Information Officer and works on several committees! He currently resides in Chicago, IL and moving back to Columbus, OH in the spring when not at something for work or APO is typically at a music festival, wedding, hanging with his nieces or just grabbing a coffee and walking around!
So You Want to Be a Section Chair/Staff?
update coming soon
Connor Bradford
Caleb Howell is a Fall 2012 initiate of the Delta Gamma chapter at Ohio University. As an active he was VP of Membership, VP of Service, and VP of Leadership as well as attending various conferences and leadership development events. Caleb graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Human and Consumer Sciences with a focus in Customer Service Leadership and Retail Merchandising and Fashion Product Development. After a brief stint in retail Caleb graduated in 2019 with a Master of Higher Education and Student Affairs. In the time since graduating Caleb has worked at various colleges doing academic advising, crisis intervention, and human resources. Now he is a sales recruiter for Horace Mann Teachers Corporation and focuses on newer graduates and building a younger sales workforce. In APhiO, Caleb is the Deputy Region H Chair/Region Information Officer and works on several committees! He currently resides in Chicago, IL and moving back to Columbus, OH in the spring when not at something for work or APO is typically at a music festival, wedding, hanging with his nieces or just grabbing a coffee and walking around!
COPYRIGHT © 2024 - REGION H, ALPHA PHI OMEGA • ALL RIGHTS RESERVED