Undergraduate Profile: Colin Dempsey, Arizona ’26
Colin is a current senior at the University of Arizona and the former chapter president. He was recently recognized as a 2025 Collegiate Changemaker for my leadership and service at the University of Arizona, Eller College of Management. After sharing his news on LinkedIn with a thoughtful retrospective of his time leading the Arizona Alpha Chapter, Phi Delta Theta General Headquarters reached out to Colin to learn more about his leadership and brotherhood journey with Phi Delta Theta.
I pledged Arizona Alpha in the fall of 2022, and shortly after initiation, I involved myself in the chapter in every way I could. Following my term as secretary, I served as president in 2025. Phi Delt has been a cornerstone of my college experience, providing me with some of my closest friends and greatest memories.
My leadership experience in the house has been one of the most dynamic and important parts of my time at the University of Arizona. As a senior, I feel I stand in two realms. The chapter’s nostalgia and identity will always be tied to the one hundred brothers I met as a freshman. Now, the seniors and I look around and see nearly 175 young men who embody the new identity of Arizona Alpha. Watching that evolution while helping guide it has been incredibly meaningful. Through every season of college, Phi Delt has been a rock for me.
I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho, but since the age of nineteen, my family has proudly called Arizona home. Academically, I am a business student studying finance and minoring in personal and family financial planning. I am a member of the Honors College and am completing my thesis by actively managing a $ 3.8 million endowment portfolio. After graduation, I plan to pursue my CFP and begin my career at JPMorgan Private Bank in Scottsdale, Arizona, as an aspiring wealth advisor.
Can you describe your extracurricular activities and any leadership roles you’ve held?
I played club baseball for all four years of college, serving as vice president for two years while competing as a starting pitcher. That experience has contributed to my discipline, accountability, and ability to lead by example.
During my sophomore year, I founded and served as president of the Arizona Financial Planning Club for two years. Building that organization from the ground up and connecting students with professionals in the wealth management industry has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career.
In the business school, I served as a BCOM preceptor for three semesters, coaching students in professional presentations and public speaking. I have also spoken on student panels and served as a mentor on a wealth management trip to Los Angeles for the past two years. Each of these roles has reinforced my commitment to leadership and mentorship both inside and outside the classroom.
How would you define brotherhood?
Brotherhood, to me, is the willingness and drive to put one another before yourself and to elevate each other to become the greatest version of themselves. A true brother can pick up right where you left off, no matter the time or distance between you.
Brotherhood also translates beyond the house. The ability to build connections quickly and get to know others in new environments is strengthened by experiencing a strong brotherhood like Phi Delt. It teaches you how to lead, actively listen, and show up for others.
How has Phi Delta Theta helped you become the greatest version of yourself? How can we continue to help you?
Phi Delt has pushed me as a person, a leader, and a professional. Leading a chapter of this size builds confidence, resilience, and conviction. It has strengthened my belief in myself and my capabilities, and given me confidence that I made the most of my college experience.
Looking ahead, I hope to stay involved at the province level and eventually at the national level. I want to continue supporting Arizona Alpha and giving back to the organization that has given so much to me.
