“The House That Leads” always throws a good party, and this year 100 brothers continued that trend at the 75th Kovner Memorial Banquet. On October 5th, we honored the life of Alfred “Koko” Kovner and his dedication to Pi Lambda Phi while strengthening the bonds of brotherhood.
Photo gallery
This year’s event was the largest gathering of PA Alpha Delta brothers assembled to celebrate, catch up, meet the new generation, and generally make fools of ourselves.
One might have thought we were giving out free stuff. Oh wait, we were! All attendees received sweet commemorative giveaways including Pi Lam branded bottle openers, beer coozies, cups, and a commemorative coin.
Creative recruitment
Snaps to our event ambassadors who used all forms of legal persuasion to get their classmates to attend including, flattery, bribery, blackmail, shaming, gaslighting, mild hazing, and quite possibly kidnapping.
How it came together
The spectacle began with a reception which was well-attended by alumni in the historic (but unseasonably hot and sweaty) new house at 1438 Broad Street.
The main event was held in Mitten Hall’s Great Court, a fitting historical location where Alfred Kovner’s name is inscribed on an “Honor Role” plaque for Temple WWII veterans who gave their life for their country.
The Kovner planning committee pulled the big show together in spite of Temple Facilities seemingly “forgetting” to do the little things… like unlocking the doors and setting up tables on time. Kudos to Jim Kelsh, Rich Travaglini, Rick Hahn, Kevin Mickelberg, Chris Cataldi, and Paul Lucas who were able to circle the wagons.
Generous $upport from alums
Thanks to the generosity of our alumni who sponsored one (or more) undergrads, they all attended for free! There was much rejoicing amongst the undergrads.
A gift honoring Kovner’s memory
To commemorate the 75th Kovner Banquet, the Alumni Association (AA) presented a custom Kovner plaque complete with Koko’s likeness and famous quote to display at the chapter house. In addition, the AA donated a plaque recognizing all of our Kovner Award recipients since 1984.
Undergraduate Awards
Kovner is not just a celebration of the past, it also recognizes the accomplishments of the active brotherhood.
Congratulations to our 2024 Award recipients!
Shawn J. Battle Purple and Gold Spirit Award – Justin Small
Athletic Achievement Award – Sam Roberts
Jerome R. Balka Award – Brian Eppenheimer
Kovner Memorial Award – Tyler Saccomandi
See you in 2025!
Thank you PA Alpha Delta brothers for making the 75th Kovner Banquet a monster success! We can’t do it without you, and Pi Lam events are always more fun with your classmates. Please help us out in 2025 by contacting your classmates.