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UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi Alumni Association FAQ's

This page is designed for our valued UC  Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi alumni, providing answers to frequently asked questions about our Alumni Association, its mission, and the ways you can stay connected with the Brotherhood. 

As alumni of UC Berkeley's Pi Alpha Phi, you remain a vital part of our fraternity's rich history and future legacy. Together, we continue to uphold the values of brotherhood, leadership, and service that define our community.

Explore this FAQ to learn how to engage with fellow alumni and stay involved in the lifelong bonds of our fraternity.

What is the current status of Pi Alpha Phi Fratenity?

​As of August 1, 2023, all student chapters of Pi Alpha Phi, including the UC Berkeley chapter, have ceased active operations as Pi Alpha Phi since the closure of the national fraternity. Pi Alpha Phi at UC Berkeley is no longer recognized as a student group by the university. The National Board operates at a minimum caretaker level for the national fraternity, continuing to maintain and monitor the Pi Alpha Phi website.

How did Pi Alpha Phi end up in this situation?

On August 6, 2023, the National Fraternity Board of Directors, “National Board”,) sent this letter explaining the closure, with a link to a slide deck that provides additional details. In summary: 

  • Declining reputations of Pi Alpha Phi and the Greek system nationwide.

  • Misconduct and risky behavior at student chapters across the country, resulting in campus suspensions and legal actions

  • Decreased student membership and rising operational costs, insurance premiums and outstanding student member dues

What is the difference between the National Board Board of Directors and the UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi Alumni Association, “Alumni Association”?

Alumni Association: Owns and manages the property at 2534 Warring Street, provides guidance to UC Berkeley's student chapter when it is active, and promotes the welfare of UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi alumni.  

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National Board: Oversees all student chapters nationally, managing brand-related aspects such as-trademarks, name usage, and royalties, overseeing new chapter expansion, maintaining the national website, and preserving historical objects among other responsibilities. With the closure of the National Fraternity, the National Board operates at a minimum caretaker level.

What is the mission of the UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi Alumni Association?

To foster a lifelong bond among UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi brothers rooted in leadership, philanthropy, and Asian American heritage, empowering them to achieve personal and professional excellence while preserving traditions and creating meaningful connections across generations and communities.

What is the legal standing of the Alumni Association?

The Alumni Association is a 501(c)(7) organization, supporting social and recreational activities funded by member fees. It differs from a 501(c)(3) organization as it strives to benefit the public.

 

Social clubs may be exempt from federal income taxation if they meet the requirements of section 501(c)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code. Although they are generally exempt from tax, social clubs are subject to tax on their unrelated business income (see below), which includes income from nonmembers. Learn more about 501(c)(7) organizations (Social Clubs) at the IRS website.

What is the current leadership and organizational structure?

The current Alumni Association Board of Directors, “Board of Directors”, consists of: Brian Gee, Gordon Wong, Nicholas Ng, Ron Chang, Mike Lin, Richard Din. Several Board members plan to retire in 2025, opening up opportunities for new leadership at the next election.

Who is responsible for Alumni Association administrative duties?

Reporting to the Board of Directors, S&T Fraternity Management (S&T) handles the bookkeeping and outsources tax preparation foron behalf of the Alumni Association. S&T is compensated by the Alumni Association through fees collected from managing the fraternity house. The Alumni Association maintains liability insurance to covering decisions made by its Board members and officers.

What is the status of the fraternity house at 2534 Warring Street?

The fraternity house is being rented out to individuals as there is no longer a university recognized chapter of Pi Alpha Phi. S&T Management handles leasing, tenant issues, and maintenance, and provides monthly reports to the Board of Directors. The property is currently financially self-sustaining.

How many UC Berkeley Pi Alpha Phi Alumni are there?

Our current email list has over 350 members. 

  • Alumni reside in 9 different countries.

  • 83% of U.S.-based alumni live in California with the majority in the SF Bay Area.

  • 40% work in Technology, with Software Engineer as the most common occupation.

  • Our email list spans 8 decades of alumni.

  • View our demographics report from Nov 2024.

How can you stay connected?

​1) Update your Profile Info

2) Like our Facebook Page

3) Join our LinkedIn Group

How often do alumni meet and how can I get involved?

The Board of the Alumni Association meets regularly to conduct Association business. Recently, a group of volunteers and Board members have been meeting over the past few months to shape the future of the Alumni Association. Everyone is welcome to join efforts by contacting ucbpaphialumni@gmail.com. Be sure to watch for updates and invitations to upcoming alumni events via email and social media.

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