Name: Marvin Bardo

Chapter: Indianapolis Alumni

What does Kappa mean to me? "Kappa" is a "state of mind". A Kappa Man is a man that looks at heartache(family tragedy, loss of friendships, relationships, etc.), disappointed (job loss, loss of promotion, victim of crime) and despair as nothing more than hurdles in "life's race". We have trained ourselves to "achieve" just as our fraternity brothers (role models) before us.

Why did I join Kappa?As a youth, most of the positive images in my negative environment were members of Kappa Alpha Psi. Neighbors, Teachers, Coaches and a few of the men in my church were all Kappa Men. They each made being positive a priority and they also made speaking to & encouraging me (and the kids around me) to do great things and "give back" once I have achieved greatness.

What has my experience in Indiana been like?I feel Blessed to have been a Kappa in Indiana. The birthplace of the fraternity brings a sense of belonging and purpose with regards to this organization. Growing up in Northwest Indiana and currently living in Central Indiana has given me exposure to the impact Kappa Alpha Psi has had on the entire state. I also feel like I have an obligation to be a positive person because I am a Kappa living in Indiana.

What is my best memory of Kappa?I really can not single out one or two "best memories" of Kappa, because I have so many of them. Among those best memories are the times "my brothers" stood with me during the passing and funerals of both of my parents. On both ocassions older and younger brothers attended the services and were there for me when I needed them the most. I will never forget those brothers and what they represented on those days.

What is my funniest memory of Kappa?I really can't expound on this too much, but I will say Conclave in Charlotte, North Carolina and Conclave in St. Louis. Just like the motto for Las Vegas, "What goes on at conclave, stays at conclave" (lol).

What is the motto of my life?That which does not kill us makes us stronger-Friedrich Nietzsche.For the most part, I have not had an easy life, but I have had a life full of memories and experiences (both good & bad). All of these experiences have allowed me to learn and grow as a man, mentor, advisor, father, freind, fraternity brother and Christian.