Hunter's Fund and our bond with Phi Kappa Psi

Hunter Watson pictured with some of his Phi Psi brothers.

Why did Phi Kappa Psi choose Hunter's Fund as its Official Philanthropy?

That's a great question! If you're new to our story, the answer is rooted in history and meaningful connections.

It all began with Hunter Watson—a bright, energetic young man with a passion for life and a genuine love for his fraternity, Phi Kappa Psi.

Hunter followed in his father Jerry Watson's footsteps by joining Phi Psi at Syracuse University. Jerry was a founding member of the chapter at the University of Alabama. But Hunter's choice to become part of Phi Psi wasn't solely about family tradition. Hunter found true brotherhood and belonging within the chapter.

Sadly, just before starting his junior year, Hunter's life was cut short when he was a passenger in a distracted driving accident. His loss left a lasting void in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him.

So how could we keep Hunter’s memory alive and make a difference? 

In 2016, Hunter’s Fund was born. We’ve been encouraging young people to pursue their passions and raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving ever since.

This mission strongly resonates with Phi Psi brothers, including board members Isaac Reisman and Jack Johnson, who are actively involved in supporting our work.

It resonates because it started with Hunter’s brothers at Syracuse, and that resolve to make a difference continues to grow. 

What started as a one-campus safe driving program has grown into a nationwide movement, with Phi Psi chapters leading Safe Driving Weeks across the country. These events not only honor Hunter, but other brothers who have been lost to distracted driving.

Through Safe Driving Week programs, Phi Psi brothers make a real difference on their campuses while also having the opportunity to pursue creative projects through our grants program. This partnership is truly full circle: we support and care for Phi Psi brothers, and they champion our cause to help save lives.

For us at Hunter's Fund, this partnership with Phi Kappa Psi goes far beyond collaboration—it's deeply personal. We see the same energy, dedication, and joy in today's Phi Psi brothers that we saw in Hunter.

Their unwavering support and hard work are the cornerstone of our success, turning shared determination into powerful action. 

Simply put: Much of our success comes from the hard work of Phi Psi Philanthropy Chairs, chapter Presidents and passionate brothers driving change through Safe Driving Week campaigns. 

A partnership rooted in healing heartache has grown into a life-saving movement we are proud of, and being named the Official Philanthropy of Phi Kappa Psi means everything to us.