Out of the sea of thankless positions, Fraternity Kappa Kappa Psi and Sorority Tau Beta Sigma aid the band in numerous ways throughout the season. Both of these organizations operate co-educationally, and have members of all different gender identities. Specifically, the Zeta Epsilon Chapter of both of these groups are full of SMB members and music students at MSU. In KKY, their impact as an entire organization spreads throughout the entire nation.
Their mission statement is “Kappa Kappa Psi is a fraternal organization that promotes the advancement of college and university bands through dedicated service and support to bands, comprehensive education, leadership opportunities, and recognition for the benefits of its members and society.” Tau Beta Sigma has a similar goal to KKY, by aiming to make the lives of music students easier, and maintaining a significant community presence on campus, and nationally.
Particularly within the Kappa Kappa Psi (KKY) Organization, Pelin Turan, Hooah Squad Leader and Zeta Epsilon Chapter President, speaks about a few key roles of Kappa within the Spartan Marching Band. Pelin remarks, “KKY is an honorary band service fraternity that uplifts the bands in any capacity they need. We have done projects like setting up rehearsal and concert chairs, helping with SMB preseason registration, assisting the uniform team for freshmen uniform fitting, funding the band to have receptions with other visiting bands at football games, or reviewing SMB leadership applications for those running for Squad leader/section leader/officers!” To continue, there are a few wholesome moments she would like to highlight for the band fans and families. Pelin also states, “One thing the parents would love to know is how much their kids grow in this organization. I have seen really shy band members blossom into huge leadership roles within the chapter. Sometimes, all it takes is some recognition for someone to break out of their shell. It absolutely warms my heart because I know exactly what it feels like, too. This chapter gives band members a tight knit group of friends as well as a sense of belonging and purpose that goes beyond being in the band. Parents - I know you do not see it, but as the president, I am so so proud of your kids!!” The Organization started at MSU in 1971, and has been assisting band members for over 50 years.
For Tau Beta Sigma (TBS), formed in 1977, Ashton Goodchild, color guard member and TBS President, references a few important projects TBS has achieved and has plans to achieve. To her, “our sorority strives to promote the appreciation of music, and support various bands at MSU, including the College of Music and the Spartan Marching Band! A few of the ways we get to support the SMB include giving out candy grams on game days, providing SMB graduation cords, and planning the end-of-the-season banquet, called ‘Huddle’! Another main goal of TBS is to support women in the field of music. To meet this goal, we did an extra project this year that included designing a band jacket patch that commemorated 50 years of Women being in the SMB. We enjoy serving the SMB in any way we can!”
Allison Supanich-Goldner, color guard member and the Sisterhood and Social Chair, also spoke about her experience in Tau Beta Sigma. According to Allison, “When I first joined the SMB, members of TBS made it a point to invite me to study sessions and other fun recruitment events, which made me feel welcomed into the whole organization. Having a group of older people that I felt comfortable asking questions was so helpful in my transition to college.”
Prioritizing inclusivity, opportunities for volunteering and leadership within the organizations, and carrying out many many many projects are a small sliver of the large scope of what TBS and KKY bring to the SMB. Thank you to both of those organizations for everything you do!
Go Green! Go White!