Iron Phi Celebrates Fifteen Years of Developing Philanthropists Through Athletics 

Iron Phi Celebrates Fifteen Years of Developing Philanthropists Through Athletics 

Everyone loves a challenge, and when that challenge offers the opportunity for personal growth, accomplishment of athletic goals, and supporting important causes, great things happen. Fifteen years since its inception, Iron Phi engagement is at an all-time high, and the program has become a rewarding component of the Phi Delt experience. 

From Idea to Program Creation 

The Iron Phi story began on the streets and classrooms in Cincinnati, Ohio, when the Fraternity’s then director of education, Steve Good, combined a frustrating marathon experience with his MBA education at Xavier University to build an idea. 

“Having received a graduate fellowship from the Phi Delta Theta Foundation, I remember going into my MBA experience with a goal of using the education to add value to the Fraternity,” said Good. During my time in grad school, I also completed my first marathon, but I left disappointed after running alongside charity athletes who had achieved much more than I had in that moment—finished the race AND raised money for a cause. The experience, coupled with my desire to do more with the Fraternity’s connection to Lou Gehrig and the ALS community, sparked the Iron Phi idea and a really fun MBA capstone project.” 

Lou Gehrig, Columbia 1925, was known as the Iron Horse during his baseball career because of his durability and perseverance. His prowess as a hitter, consecutive games-played record (2,130), and never-give-up attitude after being stricken with ALS inspired those around him. In the spirit of Brother Gehrig, the name Iron Phi was given to the concept to encourage those involved to remembers Lou’s approach to life when setting out to achieve something. 

“I remember being encouraged by my supervisor, Sean Wagner, and then General Council President Mark Ochsenbein to create a program proposal for the General Council to consider at its annual fall retreat. Being a young employee, my nerves were met with great enthusiasm by the board, and I was given the green light to bring Iron Phi to life,” Good said. 

After surveying Fraternity members to gain feedback about key components of the program (required fundraising amount to become an Iron Phi, what the funds would support, and ideal incentives) and building the Iron Phi fundraising website, the program was launched in February 2010.  

It was determined that to become an Iron Phi, participants would need to raise $1,000 through their personal Iron Phi fundraising page and accomplish an athletic goal of choice. In return, individuals would receive an Iron Phi Bond #, an incentive box including an Iron Phi race shirt, and recognition on Iron Phi’s social media accounts. 

“It was really important to all of us, including those surveyed, to direct the funds equally to the ALS cause and the development of leadership programs within the Fraternity. We knew that Iron Phi funds could amplify impact by contributing to the ALS community while building the philanthropic muscle of our members,” said Good.  

Growth Through Healthy Competition (And a Lot of Fun) 

Iron Phi has always thrived on the power of the individual participant, but the introduction of the Iron Phi Chapter status and two chapter-based annual competitions has helped fuel growth. 

“Our members love accomplishing goals together, so it was no surprise when participants started asking for chapter challenges and incentives a few years into the program. We introduced the Iron Phi Chapter concept, rewarding chapters whose Iron Phi participants collectively raise $10,000 or more in an academic year. The combination of personal and chapter achievement really sparked momentum,” said Good. 

Two annual flagship competitions were later introduced—Iron Phi Rivalries and Lou’s Olympics—and have brought a new level of energy, teamwork, and friendly bragging rights to the program at the chapter level. Together, they’ve created seasons of excitement that keep brothers training, fundraising, and bonding year after year. 

Every fall, the Iron Phi calendar ignites with Iron Phi Rivalries, a spirited face-off between Phi Delt chapters that channels the intensity of college rivalries into a force for good. From August 1 through November 30, rival chapters go head-to-head to see who can raise the most funds—adjusted per undergraduate member—while earning bonus points for recruiting new participants, reaching fundraising milestones, and crowning new Iron Phis. 

While Rivalries spark momentum in the fall, winter and spring belong to Lou’s Olympics. From February 1 to April 30, participants choose from forty-four athletic challenges—everything from marathons to weightlifting records, cycling distances to the fastest Murph workout—all while raising funds through their Iron Phi fundraising page. Those who raise $444 or more during the competition and post the top result are rewarded with a gold medal. For many, the highlight of Lou’s Olympics is the daily challenges that result in sponsorships from current Iron Phis. 

The chapter competitions have helped drive a culture of philanthropy within many Phi Delta Theta chapters, leading to further recognition and success. 

“I have been a strong supporter of the Iron Phi program since its inception, and personally was one of the earliest Iron Phis. It made me very proud when my own chapter, Utah Alpha at the University of Utah, incorporated the Iron Phi program as a key element of its Phikeia education program. This has been a terrific way to demonstrate to our members the importance of serving others – not only during their time in college, but also preparing them to serve others throughout their lives. Since Utah Alpha’s work began with the Iron Phi program, the chapter has achieved Iron Phi Chapter status for nine of the past ten years and has raised over $200,000, ranking it second among all Phi Delt chapters. The chapter’s support of the Iron Phi program has also created a great deal of pride among our alumni, parents, and university administration,” said Scott Mietchen, Utah ’84, Iron Phi #31. 

Proud Moments 

Similar to when Iron Phi participants and chapters feel great pride for their achievements, there have been a number of moments that have stuck out for the program over the years. 

The first Iron Phi 5K was hosted at the 2010 General Convention in Orlando. Since then, brothers and guests have participated in nearly twenty Iron Phi 5Ks at both Convention and the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute. 

In March of 2016, after 2,223 days since the program was launched, Iron Phi surpassed its first $1 million raised. Fast forward to February of 2025, Iron Phi surpassed $5 million raised, with its most recent million dollars raised in 453 days. 

In November 2017, it was announced that Phi Delta Theta would partner with the Pittsburgh-based organization, Live Like Lou, to grow it into a national nonprofit organization and establish it as the Fraternity’s philanthropic cause of choice. Iron Phi became a key driver in the Live Like Lou Foundation’s growth, contributing to the $13.5 million it has raised to date. 

As the pandemic took root in 2020, and Phi Delta Theta was forced to adapt its operations at both the international and chapter level, Iron Phi became a positive outlet for many Phis as they were able to channel their isolation into personal and community impact. 

“From a personal standpoint, I gleaned immense pride when alumnus Bob Sherwin, Cal State Northridge ’70, became our top overall individual Iron Phi fundraiser in 2023. To see others, who have been affected by ALS, adopt the program and infuse it into their lives is a great feeling. I can see how much Iron Phi means to Bob, and he has set an amazing example,” said Good. 

Sherwin stated, “My mother died of ALS, and I do everything I can to raise money to find a cure. As a Phi and a competitive person, I was always intrigued by the Iron Phi program. I wanted to take on the challenge as an older Phi Delt. The Fraternity changed my life as an undergraduate and has been an integral part of my life ever since. Taking on the Iron Phi challenge has been an opportunity to give back to the Fraternity, leave ALS better than I found it, and keep me young.” 

Looking Ahead 

As Iron Phi turns the page on its first fifteen years, the vision for the future is clear: deepen impact, broaden reach, and build the capacity to carry the program well into its next chapter. That begins with the alumni network. While undergraduates have been the Iron Phi growth engine, there is an enormous opportunity to engage more alumni, both those who never had the chance to participate as students and those who might take on new challenges in the next stage of life.  

Re-engaging current Iron Phis is another top priority. Thousands have become Iron Phis over the years, but the relationships and motivation built through that journey don’t have to end when one receives an Iron Phi Bond Number. New initiatives will focus on inviting past participants back for re-commitment challenges, milestone anniversary events, and mentorship opportunities for first-time Iron Phis. By fostering an ongoing community, Iron Phi can continue to inspire those who have already experienced its rewards. 

To support that growth, Iron Phi is also turning its attention inward—strengthening the operational infrastructure that makes the program possible. More robust systems for fundraising and chapter support will create a smoother, more scalable experience for everyone involved. Enhancements in marketing, communications, and data analytics will help identify trends, celebrate success stories, and keep the energy high year-round. 

Finally, the next era of Iron Phi will include a deliberate focus on major gift fundraising through the Phi Delta Theta Foundation’s Campaign 2030. As the program’s reputation grows, so does its potential to attract philanthropic leadership gifts from alumni, friends, and partners who believe in the mission.  

As the program has evolved over the years, Iron Phi has resulted in much more than just the funds raised. It has developed thousands of Phi Delt philanthropists, built confidence around personal goal setting and achievement, sparked motivation for physical fitness and health, and contributed to mission impact for both Phi Delta Theta and the Live Like Lou Foundation. 

“I hope every Phi will consider becoming an Iron Phi at some point. I hear from participants all of the time, young and old, that their Iron Phi experience has become a highlight of their Phi Delt journey. It’s a feel-good program that greatly rewards those who say yes to the challenge,” said Good. 

Early Chapter Momentum at the Iron Horse Challenge 

In 2013, Phi Delta Theta chapters in Western Pennsylvania worked together to host the Iron Horse Challenge, one of the first multi-chapter Iron Phi gatherings. Phi Delts from IUP, Robert Morris, Washington and Jefferson, Clarion, Pitt, and Allegheny all participated. Each chapter had at least one relay team that ran the same course as the Pittsburgh Marathon in relay segments, chapter versus chapter. 

The kickoff took place at Point State Park in Downtown Pittsburgh. Neil Alexander, Pittsburgh, encouraged the runners with a short speech, and his daughter, Abby, ran with group. Along with his wife, Suzanne, and hundreds of families and friends, Neil established the grassroots effort Live Like Lou in 2012. 

The Iron Phi event also helped raise awareness for the then little-known Live Like Lou startup to those outside of the Pittsburgh area. It brought participating chapters closer to the cause and increased brotherhood and cooperation among those chapters in the area. 

“Many of us share the group photo every year when it pops up as a memory, as we all feel closer because of that event, especially after Neil passed away just two years later,” said Zach Hilliard, IUP ’13. 

Phi Delt volunteers Dr. Chris W. Brussalis (General Council Member-at-Large) and Jordan Pallitto (Upsilon South Province President) attended. Many who participated eventually came to work for General Headquarters or became volunteers. Jim Rosencrans, IUP ’13, Rick Goughneour, Robert Morris ’13, and Zach Hilliard, IUP ‘13 joined the staff as leadership consultants. Joel Bender, IUP ’14, and Brandon Long, Robert Morris ’16, currently serve as province presidents. Many others serve on chapter advisory boards.