Alpha Kappa Psi’s Ongoing Commitment to Inclusion and Impact
Originating in 2020, Alpha Kappa Psi’s Belonging in Business initiative continues to have a lasting effect on the organization and its membership.
Throughout AKPsi’s history, several milestone events have shaped the diversity of our organization. Most of these changes took place in the latter half of the 20th century; however, in 2020, a more concentrated effort was established to revisit the commitment to assuring all members and guests feel welcome in AKPsi.
In the fall of 2020, the Fraternity established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force charged with ensuring the integration of the values of representation, respect, and access throughout the organization.
That task force—including undergraduate members, alumni, volunteers, and staff—laid the foundation for the Belonging in Business initiative, launched to ensure every member of AKPsi feels empowered, seen, and supported. In the words of the Fraternity’s leadership: “DEI is not a moment—it is a mindset. And it is one we must bring with us into the business world.”
Board Leadership – The conversation continues
Last year, the AKPsi Board of Directors launched a project to develop a Mission Statement for AKPsi. Alpha Kappa Psi Unveils New Mission Statement, Forging a Path for Future Leaders – Alpha Kappa Psi
When the new Mission Statement was developed, under the direction of chair Mike Dickerson, one of the main charges was to recognize strength in diversity. The Mission Statement reflects that sentiment:
“To develop a diverse global community of courageous, principled business leaders with the capability to drive positive impact throughout their lifelong journey.”
In addition to the creation of the Mission Statement, the Board of Directors passed a resolution at its most recent meeting in March to reaffirm AKPsi’s commitment to DEI.
What the Membership is Saying: DEI remains a priority but not to the degree when compared to the fall of 2020 data
Comparing responses from 2020 to 2025 to the following question, “To what level do you agree that Alpha Kappa Psi has a responsibility to provide more training about diversity, equity, and inclusion to its members?”
- Among student members, almost 80% said they agreed or strongly agreed in 2020, while only 62.5% offered the same response in 2025.
- Among alumni, 65% responded with agree or strongly agree in 2020, while the same responses in 2025 were 48.2%.
The survey data shows a general drop in the percentage of members calling for AKPsi to offer training from the peak in the fall of 2020, there remains a majority among all members who believe AKPsi should offer training.
Collegiate Chapters Taking Action: Inclusion in Motion
The Fraternity’s chapters across the country make these values tangible through local initiatives that educate, engage, and inspire.
Boston University – Eye2Eye Conference
The Nu Chapter at Boston University continues to host the Eye2Eye Conference, now in its ninth year. Founded initially by AKPsi members with the goal to raise awareness about gender inequality in business, Eye2Eye now explores a broad spectrum of DEI topics, including race, class, sexuality, and disability. This year’s theme, “Out with the Old, In with the New,” challenges outdated norms and encourages fresh thinking in workplace leadership and culture.
Seton Hall University – Autism Awareness
The Gamma Pi Chapter at Seton Hall University recently hosted Dr. Daniel Openden, CEO of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, to speak about supporting individuals with autism. Their annual 5K for Autism Acceptance has raised thousands of dollars for organizations supporting neurodiversity.
South Carolina State University – ASL Inclusion
At South Carolina State University, the Kappa Upsilon Chapter organized an American Sign Language (ASL) workshop, promoting accessibility and inclusion for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. The initiative offered students foundational ASL skills while reinforcing the importance of communication equity in professional environments.
A Culture of Belonging That Endures
Since launching the Belonging in Business initiative, AKPsi has implemented several programs to support inclusion. This commitment includes:
- Bi-annual membership surveys to listen, learn, and evolve based on real feedback
- Celebrating cultural holidays and identity milestones across a wide range of communities
- Inclusion training for all volunteers and staff during onboarding
- Accessible DEI learning opportunities for any member who wishes to participate
- The Inclusive Leadership course, currently pending accreditation with the Institute for Credentialing Excellence.
To learn more about the Belonging in Business initiative, visit AKPsi.org/Belonging-in-Business.
