11/24/2025

Pi Chi Omega Shines at PestWorld in Orlando – The “Fun-Shine State!”

Pi Chi Omega Enjoyed Tons of Fun in the Florida Sunshine State at PestWorld!

Photo credit: Heather Gooch, PMP Magazine

Pi Chi Omega brought energy, engagement, and plenty of entomological excitement to PestWorld in Orlando this year—so much so that the Sunshine State quickly earned a new nickname: the Fun-Shine State! From packed meetings to playful booth activities to an unforgettable social event, our fraternity made its presence felt throughout the week.

Open-Door Leadership: Pi Chi Omega Board Meeting

We kicked off PestWorld with a Pi Chi Omega Board Meeting that embodied our commitment to transparency and member engagement. With a dozen guests joining us, the meeting showcased the passion and dedication of our volunteer Board. We always welcome visitors, and it was inspiring to have so many members and friends sit in to see their Board in action.

Standing-Room-Only Membership Meeting

Our annual Membership Meeting was filled to the brim—standing room only—and packed with important fraternity business, celebrations, and forward-looking initiatives.

Elections & Program Launch

• Members participated in fraternity elections, helping guide the future of Pi Chi Omega. We welcomed Glen Ramsey, MS, BCE, PCQI and Stephanie Hill onto the Board and said farewell to several Board members whose terms ended, including Cassie Krejci, Ph.D. (Immediate Past President), BCE, Larry Treleven (Treasurer), Santos Portugal, III Ph.D. (Director), and Hamilton Allen (Director). In true service-minded fashion, Cassie rejoined the Board as Treasurer.

• We proudly launched the new Entomologist on Call program, expanding our ability to support the industry with expert guidance. A team of technical specialists have developed this resource exclusively for Pi Chi Omega members to utilize whenever they are up against a technical challenge and need a little extra advice from an entomologist. Log in to the Members Hub to check out the queries submitted and answered to date.

Recognizing Excellence

Two outstanding members were honored with Pi Chi Omega Awards:

• Johnalyn Gordon, Ph.D. received the Generosity Award for her remarkable contributions and enthusiasm throughout her term as Student Board Member.

• Dr. Gary Bennett, Ph.D. was recognized for his decades of service, leadership, and positive influence—from his early days as a student member to his role as dean of the entomology department. His lifelong commitment has left a profound mark on both Pi Chi Omega and the broader pest management industry.

Fun and Fellowship at the Pi Chi Omega Booth

Just outside the trade show floor, our booth became a lively gathering point for:

• Members reconnecting and catching up

• Industry newcomers learning about our fraternity

• Anyone brave enough to… “Be Our Pest, Be Our Pest & Put Your Knowledge to the Test!”
  (Yes, we insist you sing it!)

Visitors donned everything from butterfly wings to flyswatters for photos, making our booth a cheerful hotspot of laughter and engagement.

Raise the Bar Social – A Perfect Ending

The week wrapped up with our Thursday evening Raise the Bar Social in the lobby bar of the Marriott Orlando World Center. Members and curious PestWorld attendees came together to unwind, network, and enjoy great conversation.

The night also featured a 50/50 raffle, which raised more than $600 in support of Pi Chi Omega’s mission. Our lucky winner, Shon Vodila, walked away with half the pot—and a very big smile. But, clearly everyone in attendance felt like winners - Raise the Bar is always a great time to connect and enrich the urban pest management industry!

Until Next Time…

PestWorld in the Fun-Shine State was a memorable celebration of camaraderie, professional growth, and the spirit of Pi Chi Omega. We’re grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, or stopped by to say hello. Your enthusiasm helps our fraternity thrive.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event!