A New Chapter

Relaunched Business Fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi Brings New Opportunities for Growth and Networking

Resumes, interviews, networking events and LinkedIn profiles are important, yet often confusing, parts of preparing for the professional world that leave many students asking, “Where do I start?”

At the University of Louisville, the relaunched Omicron Phi chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi is working to become one answer to that question. Originally chartered at UofL in 1998, the chapter is rebuilding its presence on campus as a place where all students can practice professional skills, build confidence and connect with peers who are also preparing for life after graduation.

Nationally, Alpha Kappa Psi is recognized as the oldest and largest professional business fraternity, with an emphasis on networking, leadership and the development of skills students can carry into their careers. However, while UofL’s chapter is housed in the College of Business, the organization is not limited to business majors.

UofL’s AKPsi president Jeremy Mauldin sees that as part of its strength.

“We’re not exclusive to just business students,” Mauldin said. “We focus more so on the networking aspect and developing these business skills that lots of students will need.”

Renewed Opportunity

When Mauldin first learned about AKPsi, rather than letting an opportunity remain dormant, he decided to take on the work of bringing the organization to life. Mauldin hosted the chapter’s first informational session in fall 2025, beginning the relaunch effort largely on his own. From there, he connected with interested students through the winter months, building momentum that would lead to the chapter’s spring 2026 revival.

In only two semesters, what began with one student and an idea has grown into a chapter of 16 members. For Mauldin, that growth has been both exciting and meaningful, especially as he prepares to graduate this fall. “Hopefully I can help students as I leave,” he said.

Practice Without Pressure

Through the relaunched chapter, prospective and current members have access to a mix of professional development, networking and community-building opportunities. The chapter has already hosted events focused on practical career skills, including a LinkedIn workshop with the Ulmer Career Center and a workplace navigation event in partnership with Green Dot. These programs are designed to help students prepare for the situations they may encounter as they move from college into internships, first jobs and long-term careers.

The chapter also gives members opportunities to gain experience that can strengthen their resumes, portfolios and future interviews. Through roles such as planning AKPsi events, developing marketing materials, leading workshops or supporting recruitment, students can practice the same skills they hope to use after graduation while building tangible examples of their work.

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At the same time, the chapter is working to make professional development feel approachable. Alongside career-focused workshops, AKPsi has hosted more informal events that give students a chance to meet members, ask questions and build connections in a low-pressure setting.

For Mauldin, that balance is important. The goal is not only to help students learn how to dress professionally, use LinkedIn or prepare for interviews, but to create an environment where students feel comfortable seeking support. “We want to help students,” Mauldin said. “We don’t want to push anybody away.”

That openness also extends beyond the college. With the chapter open to students across majors, students from all academic units can benefit from joining AKPsi because the skills it helps develop are valuable in nearly every field. Current members represent a range of academic paths, including biomedical sciences, pre-law and nursing, reflecting the chapter’s broader goal of supporting students across campus as they prepare for their futures.

Building Momentum

As the chapter continues to rebuild its presence at UofL, AKPsi is also looking ahead to new partnerships and expanded opportunities for students. Mauldin said the chapter hopes to continue building relationships across campus while also strengthening connections with alumni and local businesses and organizations throughout the Louisville community. Those partnerships could create new opportunities for mentorship, professional development and career exploration, while helping connect students with people and organizations beyond the classroom.

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For the upcoming academic year, the chapter’s goals include a successful fall recruitment cycle, additional workshops and more opportunities for students to develop practical career skills. One of its biggest milestones will be rechartering in November, which will formally reestablish the chapter as an active chapter recognized by AKPsi headquarters. For Mauldin, rechartering represents more than a required step. It is a sign that the chapter has built enough momentum, structure and student commitment to continue growing beyond its relaunch. “We worked very long, and we’ve worked very hard,” Mauldin said. “We are keeping that momentum going.”

For students who may be unsure whether they belong in a professional business fraternity, Mauldin hopes AKPsi feels less like an intimidating next step and more like an open door. Many students, he said, are still learning how to navigate professional spaces, build confidence or ask for opportunities. The relaunched chapter aims to give those students a place to develop their skills, explore their goals and be recognized for what they bring to the table. “We are here to help, and we want to help,” Mauldin said.

Students interested in learning more about Alpha Kappa Psi can connect with the chapter through Instagram or Engage UofL.

About the UofL College of Business:

Founded in 1953, the UofL College of Business fosters intellectual and economic vitality in our city, region and the global business landscape. Our academic programs, research, community outreach initiatives and commitment to student success inspire lives and businesses to flourish through entrepreneurship, innovation, critical thinking, diversity and the power of people.

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