Bruce L. Rogers

Bruce L. Rogers, Chi (Stetson), was initiated into Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity on January 25, 1982. After graduating from Stetson, Rogers was attending law school at Duke University when the idea of cycling across the country came to him. After much consideration, Rogers decided that if he was going to spend the time cycling across the country, he should make the ride for a cause greater than himself. His fundraising consisted solely of a letter-writing campaign to family and friends, whom he asked to support his PUSH America ride instead of graduation gifts. Through his letters, he raised more than $1,500.

Roger’s journey began on August 5, 1987, in Florence, Oregon. He cycled for 47 days, ending at the base of the Victory Monument in Yorktown, Virginia, on September 21, 1987. Little did he know then that his idea would quickly and permanently ignite the largest fundraising and student participation project in Pi Kappa Phi’s history.

Inspired by his inaugural trip, PUSH America’s Assistant Executive Director Ken Kaiser, Delta Sigma (Bowling Green State), began formulating the PUSH America cross-country cycling concept. Kaiser’s vision for PUSH America programming was an elevated level of hands-on undergraduate member participation, something he believed this program could provide. Service like this, he believed, was the key to having students touch, feel and experience PUSH America. In 1988, a 21-person team organized by Jim Karlovec, Delta Sigma (Bowling Green State), rode the first official Journey of Hope.

Because of Roger’s 1987 trip, more than 1,000 Pi Kappa Phi brothers have traversed the country by bike. Annually, approximately 50 undergraduates and alumni embark on a cross-country trip to test their limits, spread awareness and celebrate the abilities of all people. With two routes kicking off on the West Coast, teams spend the summer crossing the country over a combined 6,000 miles with an arrival at the Capitol Lawn in Washington D.C., marking the end of a life-changing event. Along the way, the team spreads the message of disability awareness through local media and makes stops at partner organizations for Friendship Visits.

The program raises more than $450,000 each year through team member fundraising and corporate sponsorships.

Highlights

Inspired what is now known as Journey of Hope through his inaugural PUSH America solo cycling trip across the country in 1987

Founding Partner – Mountaingate Capital

Co-Founder – KRG Capital