Sammy Barr Honored as NIC Outstanding IFC President of the Year
A proud member of California Delta, Sammy Barr, USC ’24, has been a dedicated leader in the Greek community, serving as president of the University Park Interfraternity Council. This month, Sammy was named one of the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) Outstanding IFC Presidents of the Year. His nomination came from the University Park IFC Advisor, with glowing recommendations from members of the chapter advisory board and even Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity’s Executive Vice President and CEO, Sean Wagner. It’s a well-earned recognition for a leader who has truly embodied what it means to be a Phi Delt.
“Sammy Barr’s recognition as IFC president of the Year is a testament to his outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to fostering a strong and inclusive Greek community at USC. His achievements not only highlight his personal excellence but also set a positive example for the members of Cal Delta. Sammy’s passion for creating a positive experience for his peers and his ability to lead with integrity embody the core values of Phi Delta Theta. We are incredibly proud of Sammy’s achievements and the lasting impact he has made both within our fraternity and the greater USC community.”
Rayvon Hill, CSUN ’07, Omicron East Province President
Can you tell us a bit about your experience as IFC president? What were some of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of the role?
Having the opportunity to serve as IFC president was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I am leaving the position with a newfound appreciation of our Greek community at USC. The most challenging aspect was figuring out how to work with city organizations, like the LAPD, to allow for a system where Greek life could thrive while also being respectful to the neighbors and non-Greek members of our community. The most rewarding aspect was being able to foster a culture of transparency in all that we did, helping chapters understand how the IFC was working for them in every endeavor we took on. I could not have accomplished all I did without the help of my incredible executive board, and I can confidently say the Greek community at USC is stronger because of our work.
What initiatives or accomplishments during your Phi Delt experience are you most proud of?
I am blessed to have had the chance to serve in several incredible positions during my time in Phi Delt. From vice president and risk management chair to PR chair and mental health chair, I’ve really seen my chapter through a holistic lens. Of all the roles I have served in, I am most proud of my work as mental health chair. I took over during one of the first ‘normal’ semesters after COVID, and I was able to put together a group of my brothers who volunteered to help serve on the mental health committee. It was through a doors-open approach where I challenged those on the committee to be available 24/7 that I really saw what brotherhood was supposed to be. Guys were there for each other, and as the semester went on, more and more people wanted to be part of the mental health committee. It was truly such a special part of my undergraduate experience.
How has your experience as a Phi Delta Theta member influenced your leadership style and approach to the IFC?
My time as IFC president would not have been possible without my experience in Phi Delt. This is largely due to incredible mentors and chapter leaders who came before me. Through watching the way former presidents handled the chapter, I was able to hone my style of leadership. It was because of the chapter president’s encouragement while I was serving as VP that I ultimately decided to fully commit to running for IFC president. I know that all I was able to accomplish with the IFC is owed in large part to those who came before me and challenged me to do more.
What advice would you give to future leaders who want to make a lasting impact?
Take the time to get to know people, and listen to what they have to say. In order to be an effective leader, I truly believe you have to understand both who you’re leading and who’s leading you. Making an impact is the byproduct of working hard and championing a cause that will benefit the common good. If you can find a way to strike that balance, you will find major success as a leader.
How has your time in Phi Delta Theta shaped your personal and professional growth?
Without Phi Delt, I really don’t know where I would be today. This Fraternity has given me a family in a city where I knew no one. It has constantly challenged me to go further in my leadership. It is the reason I was able to figure out what I want to do professionally. When I think about all of the ways Phi Delt shaped me, it’s difficult to picture my life without it—and because of the incredible brothers I have, I’ll never have to.
