Expanding Our Impact: Meet Jacob Foulker, Director of Expansion
As Phi Sigma Pi looks ahead to the coming years, we are excited to expand our reach, strengthen our Chapters, and provide even more support to Members. Expansion is a key part of that vision. In this Q&A, learn more about Phi Sigma Pi’s new Director of Expansion, Jacob Foulker, and his background, experience, and what excites him most about bringing Phi Sigma Pi to new campuses.
Q: Please share a little about your background in Greek Life and what led you to join Phi Sigma Pi National Staff.
A: My journey in the fraternal world started when I joined my social fraternity, Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc., in 2007. Since then, fraternal organizations have always interested me. I worked outside of higher education for most of my career and then eventually began my career in higher education working in fraternity and sorority life as the Greek Life and Community Outreach Manager at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
I know how impactful student organizations and Greek Life, social or otherwise, can be for a student. When I learned more about Phi Sigma Pi, I really liked that it is gender-inclusive and knew this could be an organization that impacts many people in a positive way.
Q: What past experiences have prepared you for working in Expansion and supporting new and growing Chapters?
A: Expansion is about being able to tell the story of the organization and encourage people to be a part of that story. I served as the Chief Expansion Officer for my social fraternity and helped start chapters in four different states, two of which had no chapters previously. I supported new chapters through their formative stages and worked closely with alumni to guide them toward long-term success.
During my time as the Greek Life and Community Outreach Manager, I supported campus chapters in areas such as operations, conflict resolution, recruitment, and overall organizational development. Ensuring longevity and sustainability is essential for new and growing chapters.
Q: What does the current Expansion process look like?
A: The Expansion process can vary by institution. At some campuses, Phi Sigma Pi falls under Greek Life, while at others it is categorized as a student organization. Because of this, the process can look very different from one school to another.
In most cases, Phi Sigma Pi is considered a student organization. The process typically begins with outreach to the institution to establish a relationship with the Office of Student Life or Student Involvement and to gain a clear understanding of campus policies and procedures. Since on-campus promotion is often limited to registered student organizations, we frequently rely on other recruitment methods early on. These include connecting with interested students through email and social media to build awareness and generate interest.
Once Phi Sigma Pi is recognized as a registered student organization, we can host tabling events, informational sessions, and other in-person opportunities to introduce students to the organization.
Q: What excites you most about your role in helping bring Phi Sigma Pi to new campuses?
What excites me most is the opportunity to meet new people and introduce them to Phi Sigma Pi. Watching students discover an organization that can positively shape their college experience is incredibly rewarding.
Phi Sigma Pi offers opportunities for leadership development, meaningful connections, and personal growth. Being able to help bring those opportunities to new campuses is something I find very fulfilling. I changed careers to help people, and this role allows me to do exactly that.
Q: What is one thing you want Members or prospective Members to know about you as they begin working with you?
A: I am an open book. Ask me questions. I am here to help.
Outside of work, what is something fun or interesting you would like Members to know about you?
A; I have three kids, so they keep me busy. Outside of spending time with my family, I enjoy playing Magic: The Gathering with friends, and my wife and I attend anime conventions. I have a lot of interests, so there is a good chance we might have something in common.
The coming years bring exciting opportunities for Phi Sigma Pi as we expand to new campuses and deepen our support for Chapters nationwide. Through intentional expansion efforts and dedicated staff support, we are building a strong foundation for continued growth and lasting impact.If you have questions about Expansion or are interested in bringing Phi Sigma Pi to your campus, please reach out to Jacob at expansion@phisigmapi.org or fill out this form.