Kappa Psi Gamma Upsilon Chapter Earns National Pinnacle Award

Announced on August 29, the College of Pharmacy Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity chapter earned the Pinnacle Top Performing Chapter Award for 2024–2025. Presented by the national office, this award recognizes chapters that demonstrate leadership and operational excellence. 

“On behalf of the faculty, I want to extend our congratulations to the Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Kappa Psi for receiving this prestigious award,” shared faculty advisor Jason Karnes, PharmD. “This recognition is a testament to the chapter’s outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to advancing the values of brotherhood and professional excellence. We are proud of your hard work and commitment that continue to bring national recognition to our college and community.”

Founded in 1879, Kappa Psi is the oldest and largest pharmaceutical fraternity in the world. The Gamma Upsilon Chapter, established at the University of Arizona in 1950, has more than 120 members and just celebrated its 75th anniversary last semester. The chapter’s mission is to build leaders who are passionate about community service and lifelong professional connections. The Gamma Upsilon chapter has seen growing recognition in recent years. In 2023–2024, they received the 'Best Brotherhood Event' award for their region, and in 2024–2025, they were honored with both the 'Most Traveled Chapter' and the 'Community Service Award.'”

Madison Matthews, chapter regent and member of the Class of 2027, spoke about the impact of this organization on the students. “Kappa Psi Gamma Upsilon brings together classmates from all cohorts with a variety of interests in the pharmacy profession and has become a hub for leaders. Surrounding yourself with highly motivated individuals pushes you to strive for more, and that is one of the best benefits I have personally experienced.”

She continues, “This award is a tremendous honor that reflects the dedication and hard work our chapter puts into everything we do. It symbolizes our commitment to excellence and the impact we strive to make. This recognition is especially meaningful as it reflects the foundation built by our past Regent, Lauren Conway. Her vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the chapter played a vital role in earning this award, and I am proud to carry her legacy forward.”

As the current regent, Matthews leads the chapter, supports its members, and ensures they stay true to Kappa Psi’s values. She’s focused on strengthening the chapter’s presence on campus, deepening connections with graduate brothers, and creating new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Sinem Ozgur, third-year PharmD student, was inspired to pursue a career in pharmacy because of her longstanding passion for healthcare and her desire to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. As vice regent, she supports their executive board, helps coordinate chapter activities, and works to foster both professional and personal growth among their members. Her goal is to continue building a culture of collaboration, service, and leadership in our chapter, while pursuing my career interests in emergency medicine and critical care.

 “Student organizations are a really important part of pharmacy education because they give students opportunities outside the classroom to grow personally and professionally. Kappa Psi has been especially meaningful because it combines professional growth with strong friendships,” says Ozgur. “Through the fraternity, I’ve been able to work on service projects, take on leadership roles, and be part of a network that extends far beyond our campus. More than anything, Kappa Psi has given me support, mentorship, and lifelong connections that make the challenges of pharmacy school easier and more rewarding.”

The Gamma Upsilon chapter of Kappa Psi exemplifies its commitment to philanthropy, fellowship, scholarship, and leadership, uniting these values into a strong brotherhood that enriches both its members and the community.

Congratulations to the Gamma Upsilon Chapter for this outstanding achievement. Your leadership, service, and dedication continue to elevate the College of Pharmacy and inspire your peers. 

To learn more about Kappa Psi Gamma Upsilon, and how you can become a member, visit their student organization page.