When Anthony Luciano ‘19 first arrived at Valparaiso University, the idea of joining a fraternity was the last thing on his mind. Like many incoming freshmen, he brought preconceived notions about Greek life shaped by national headlines and stereotypes. However, his viewpoint quickly shifted as he witnessed the genuine brotherhood demonstrated by Phi Kappa Psi members throughout campus.
“I was against it when I first got to college due to the stigma of fraternities nationwide,” Anthony recalls. “However, I wanted to join simply due to how I observed members interacting with others on campus. Whether I saw them in class, in the Union, at athletic events, or studying in the library, they broke the stigma and truly showed they were a part of a ‘brotherhood’ that welcomed everyone.” Anthony’s transformation from skeptic to devoted brother exemplifies the authentic character that defines Indiana Epsilon.
Initiated in spring 2019, he quickly embraced the chapter’s values and became deeply involved in campus leadership, eventually serving as Interfraternity Council President and Vice President.
One of Anthony’s most treasured memories centers on his role during bid turn-in nights as an IFC officer. “As soon as the new members walked through the doors, stood in front of all the chapter presidents and our council, and presented their bids that declared ‘Phi Kappa Psi,’ it gave me chills thinking how our brotherhood will continue for future generations and how far it has come through history,” he shares.
Brother Matthew D’Alessandro ‘16 , a former Chapter President and Valpo’s most recent Chapter Advisor of the Year, proved instrumental in shaping Anthony’s college experience and beyond. D’Alessandro served as Anthony’s new member educator and became a trusted mentor who was always available for guidance, emphasizing the importance of doing the right thing regardless of the situation.
Since graduating, Anthony has built an impressive career at PepsiCo, starting as an Accounting Control intern during his senior year and advancing through multiple roles in the finance organization. Currently working on the North American Beverages Team responsible for headquarters activities, Anthony credits his Phi Psi experience with developing crucial leadership and management skills that continue to serve him professionally.
True to Phi Psi’s spirit of brotherhood, Anthony has made it a priority to lift others as he climbs. One of his most fulfilling professional moments came when he helped a fellow Phi Psi brother, one class below him, secure an internship at PepsiCo that led to a full-time position. That brother has since advanced through two promotions and continues to thrive in his career.
Anthony’s commitment to Indiana Epsilon extends well beyond his undergraduate years. He actively serves on the chapter’s housing corporation. He mentors current members on financial management, budgeting, and business decision-making, ensuring they understand how these skills impact the organization’s long-term success.
His advice to undergraduates emphasizes the importance of maximizing the Phi Psi experience:
“I would recommend that current brothers leverage university networks and get involved in leadership positions outside the chapter. This will help them become well-rounded leaders, and the skills they learn can be brought back to improve the chapter continuously.”
Anthony also strongly advocates for the residential experience, having lived in the chapter house for three years. “Though you might be alone in your bedroom or the library doing homework, the idea that you truly will always have your best friends around constantly pushing you to be better was extremely motivating for me.”
Anthony Luciano’s journey from fraternity skeptic to devoted alumnus illustrates the transformative power of authentic brotherhood and the lasting impact of the Phi Kappa Psi experience at Valparaiso University.