Alpha Kappa Psi celebrates Darin F. Schuld, Saint Louis ’94 – Life for his years of service and dedication to the fraternity. As the outgoing Eastern Great Plains Regional Director, Darin reflects on the impact he’s made, the relationships he’s developed, and where he sees his future within Alpha Kappa Psi.
Beginning the Journey to Brotherhood
Darin F. Schuld was initiated into the Delta Sigma chapter at Saint Louis University in 1994. In December of 1995, he graduated and began his journey to volunteerism as the chapter advisor for the delta sigma chapter. After completing five years as a chapter advisor, Darin transitioned into the role of regional consultant where he assisted the regional director. During this time, Darin also contributed his talents to the St. Louis Alumni chapter as the Vice President and President for over five years. The final position Darin decided to take on was Eastern Great Plains Regional Director.
Darin’s brother, Kevin G. Schuld, Saint Louis ’89 – Life, joined the delta sigma chapter a few years prior to Darin’s initiation. Darin credits the positive influence the fraternity had on his brother, benefits like networking and business exposure, and a support system of friends who were also interested in AKPsi for influencing his desire to gain membership.
Voicing the Desire to Volunteer
Darin pays homage to brothers who paved the way for his opportunity to lead as a volunteer for Alpha Kappa Psi. “Ken Hastey, St. Louis ’76, former President and Chairman of the Board, has been an inspiring person and someone I could count on for lots of knowledge and good advice. He’s always been a very supportive figure for me.” Former President Andrea Nemeth, Montclair State ’91 – Life, was in office when Darin was elected as Regional Director. (In the past, regional directors were elected by the students in their region rather than the current process, appointment by the board. They were also required to live in the region they served.) Darin and Andrea initially became acquainted when Andrea served as Executive Vice President and oversaw the alumni chapter region. Darin remembers, “she showed a lot of interest in alumni programs even when she was president. We kept in touch. She knew I was in the Eastern Great Plains region and encouraged me to pursue the position.”
Reflecting on his time as a regional director, Darin offers this advice to incoming volunteers, especially the incoming Eastern Great Plains Regional Director, Erik Thomas, “You never stop learning and experiencing new things. When you think you have it all understood, there’s always more. The fraternity and universities are changing. Education doesn’t stop. You’re an active learner.”
Remarkable Memories
Alpha Kappa Psi has become an intuitive part of Darin’s personal and professional life. Making principled decisions about his future, building a portfolio of experience, and living up to the values and principles of the fraternity are always in the back of his mind when moving forward in his personal and professional life. Setting these good habits as a student carried over into his decisions as an alumnus, professional, and member of society so that he could influence and make a positive change in the world around him.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting new people, learning about the various colleges, hearing stories about chapters’ success, and receiving the Silver DSA. These are all some of my greatest memories in the fraternity.” Darin is among an exclusive group of brothers who have received the Second-Degree Silver Distinguished Service Award.
Darin plans to continue volunteering in a smaller capacity, attending 2019 PBLI in February, and the 2019 Dallas, TX Convention in August.