Undergraduate Awards
Howard H. Baker Leadership Award
This award is named in honor of Brother Howard Baker, Alpha Sigma (Tennessee), who served as U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1967–85 and Senate Majority Leader from 1981–85. This award recognizes the student member of Pi Kappa Phi with the most outstanding leadership and involvement in campus and community organizations independent of his chapter.
2026 Recipient
Trent Jones, Omicron (Alabama)
Trent Jones, Omicron (Alabama), is the 2026 recipient of the Howard H. Baker Leadership Award.
When his chapter faced challenges last year, Jones stepped into the role of archon. At a time when strong leadership was crucial, he seized the moment and led the Omicron Chapter through a period of rebuilding and cultural reform. Jones worked tirelessly to establish a healthier chapter culture with accountability and genuine brotherhood at its core. He helped the chapter adopt a values-driven approach to its operations and prioritized consistent, effective communication with the fraternity and sorority life office, Pi Kappa Phi staff and chapter advisors. He also set an example for his brothers through his academic achievements and involvement. While leading the chapter through a challenging year, Jones maintained a GPA above 3.8, earned Dean’s List recognition and was involved in the Student Government Association, Order of Omega and Jasons Senior Men’s Honorary.
His leadership was so impactful that members of his own Executive Council sought ways to nominate him for national recognition, reflecting the respect and admiration he earned from those who served alongside him. Through his dedicated leadership, Jones has positioned the Omicron Chapter for a stronger future and demonstrated what it means to lead with character.
