The Archons’ Academy serves as our annual leadership program specifically designed for chapter presidents. Unlike many other leadership initiatives available to our members, this academy is uniquely tailored for a select group, focusing on conversation and discussion to leverage the experiences of those in leadership roles. Originating in the 1990s, the Academy provides an opportunity for chapter presidents to connect with one another, share best practices, and acquire essential skills that will benefit them throughout their tenure. Over the years, the program has evolved to meet the changing needs of our members and to capitalize on new opportunities. In 2024, we implemented one of the most significant updates to our programming by aligning the Academy with the Psi Upsilon Foundation’s Social Impact Fellowship and moving it to its new home in Alexandria, VA. Marking a new period in our development offerings and allowing more interaction between undergraduate and alumni leadership.
We had 21 chapters represented at the 31st Archons’ Academy in 2025, and over 30 alums participating in our Social Impact Fellowship Reception on Friday evening.
In recent years, The Birkman Method has been integrated as a fundamental component of the academy and the Social Impact Fellowship. This personality assessment tool sheds light on four essential aspects of an individual: Motivation, Self-Perception, Social Perception, and Mindset. By comprehending these perspectives and their interactions, individuals can gain deeper insights into the emotions and actions that shape their lives. Before arriving in Alexandria, every Archon and Fellow completed the assessment. A significant portion of the Saturday programming featured discussions led by Doug Opicka, founder and managing partner of Plaid, LLC, focusing on the assessment and tailored approaches to conflict resolution based on personality types. The format also included facilitated breakout sessions with the Social Impact Fellows, promoting more intimate discussions on these important topics.
Additional sessions in the academy reviewed Psi Upsilon’s history, values, chapter operations, crisis response, motivating and incentivizing members, reviewed Psi U resources, and gave Archons a chance to share their challenges.
Attendees shared the following about their experience:
“I better understood the goals and purpose of the International Fraternity and how other chapters employ strategies to succeed.”
“The Birkman test presentation was very good as it gave us a visual representation of what type of leaders we are and how to work with others.”
“I think the history of Psi Upsilon is an essential part of explaining the functioning of Psi Upsilon. The Birkman Assessment also provides valuable insights to us as leaders.”
“I had second thoughts about going to the Archons Academy, but I ended up leaving with a lot more knowledge than I thought I would have received. I also had fun meeting alumni and created a lot of great memories with members in our other chapters that I will never forget.”
This event consistently stands out as a key highlight of our programming calendar. It plays a vital role in demonstrating to chapter presidents that they are not alone in navigating their challenges and that they have access to valuable resources for support, including one another. To further strengthen these connections, we plan to maintain our monthly Town Halls and offer online educational opportunities, including our Roundtable and Summer Leadership Series, along with Coaching sessions and campus visits by our staff.
You can view photos of the weekend on our Flickr site and Facebook Page.
