The Beta Theta Pi Magazine - Spring 2012

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BETA THETA PI A

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S PRING 2012

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Leading in the

of

CIRCUMSTANCE A national spokesman, a reformed drug addict and NFL royalty (page 17)

OXFORD CUP

Co-Founder of Adobe (page 14)

CAMPUS LIFE

Undergraduate Highlights (page 28)

THE BETA HOUSE

If These Walls Could Talk (page 33)

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE

Tough Times Don’t Discriminate In early January, right around the same time the winter issue of the Beta magazine started hitting mailboxes, Beta’s Communication Department gathered around the boardroom table at the Administrative Office and conducted our quarterly creative session for the upcoming spring issue.

For a few hours, the team’s focus was to analyze and critique the just-released winter issue, in addition to generating ideas and concepts for the next publication.

As pages of flip chart paper were scribbled with possibilities, it became obvious as we searched for an overarching theme that one common thread existed: each captivating human interest story involved a Beta who overcame significant life obstacles: •

•

•

Squared right in the middle of a sex abuse scandal, the immediate termination of a legendary football coach and out-of-control student rioting, a 20-year-old college student found himself making national headlines as the sole university spokesman.

In what should have been the prime of his life, one Beta was on the verge of suicide due to years of drug dependency, a life of crime and deceiving those who loved him most.

A Pakistani immigrant was being celebrated as a true “rags to riches” story as he became the first minority to ever own an NFL team.

Sometimes stories like these just can’t be scripted. So often they write themselves.

And so it was. The spring issue of The Beta Theta Pi would be dedicated to individuals who — in the face of circumstances — rejected becoming a victim, accepted responsibility and engaged vigilantly to overcome their personal challenges. Sometimes, at significant personal risk and sacrifice. Sometimes, against the greatest of odds.

Reflecting on the theme and featured stories for this magazine one morning, it occurred to me that there are essentially three realities associated with the hardships that life so often deals us: you’re either born into them, they are the result of personal choices or they are thrust upon you because of the actions of others.

THE BETA THETA PI

The oldest continuously-published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded on December 15, 1872,

by Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869.

Editor L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 Associate Editors Geoff Lewis, UCLA ’09 Michael Roupas, Iowa ’10 Contributors MacGregor Hill, Phyllis Bowie, Cat Sohor, Bruce Fein, L.E. Johnson, Tom and Lori Wackerman Creative Director Sarah Shepherd Graphic Designer Jenna Noah Director of Digital Media Robert T. Umstadter, San Jose State ’05 Photography @Flickr.com Geoff Lewis, UCLA ’09 Melanie Versaw The Beta Theta Pi, (USPS 052-000) official magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, is owned by the Fraternity, edited and published under the direction and control of its Board of Trustees, published Winter, Spring and Summer for $30 one-time pre-paid subscription. Standard non-profit class postage paid at Oxford, Ohio, and additional points of entry. Canada Post International Publications Mail (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 0397474.

Copyright Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, 2012. Produced in the USA.

Publication Schedule Issue Deadline Summer 2012 April 15 Winter 2013 October 15 Spring 2013 January 15

Mail Date June 15 December 15 March 15

Send address changes to: Foundation and Administrative Office Brennan Hall 5134 Bonham Road P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, Ohio 45056 (513) 523-7591 or beta@betathetapi.org

Regardless of one’s wealth, looks, skin color, religion, sexual orientation, nationality or physical abilities, tough times don’t discriminate. And we all can make choices to persevere and overcome. While it’s easy to suggest what others should do in times of trial and tribulation, one of the most important questions remains, “How will we each respond in the face of our own circumstances?”

Martin L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 martin.cobb@betathetapi.org

www.facebook.com/betathetapifans www.twitter.com/betathetapi www.betathetapi.org/linkedin www.youtube.com/user/betathetapi www.vimeo.com/betathetapi www.issuu.com/betathetapiao

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

Beta inbox

What Did You Think of the Winter Issue?

From the Mailbox Interesting you picked on Tom Brokaw for your “Message.” After returning from WWII service in Europe I hung around with Carl Brokaw, a nephew I believe, while we waited for sufficient “points” to be discharged, April 1946. I graduated from Yale in1944, and thought you might be interested in the Brokaw angle. Congratulations on your new layout — bright, better highlighted generates more readership and action. — Ron Davis, Yale ’44 Used to be I’d read The Beta Theta Pi first. It was a fast read. A predictable read. Fuzzy group pictures taken on a Kodak Brownie. Athletic pix, head and shoulder studio shots, mostly.

When you read and think about fraternity, consider the content in the context of life — both inside of Beta and especially out. Does an article force you to stop and think? Does an image or video spark an emotion? Then reach out and talk to your friends and family; catch up with your brothers by phone or email.

It’s never been easier to engage with others.

This is real life here.

Living Beta’s values can be deeply challenging, but there’s an entire family here to help.

You can engage with our brotherhood throughout the day; you can do it online and on the go. Come join our social networks; you’ll discover new sides of the Beta story. And if you’re feeling courageous, share your own Beta story — you might just inspire people to go create theirs.

The new format is lively, personal, with unexpected bits, all offered up in an engaging manner. The color sections give a vibrancy and an “I’m right there...” feel to the book. Nothing stale. Nothing repetitive. Nothing predictable and hack. — Ty Phillip, Wittenberg ’60, waldheim1925@gmail.com

Share Your Thoughts: beta@betathetapi.org

Live Tweets @thomsinger: I enjoy getting my fraternity’s quarterly magazine in the mailbox @BetaThetaPi. While electronic version is nice, print version makes me smile.

December 10, 2011 at 02:29 PM

@malindamatney: Why I advise fraternity chapters.

RT @BetaThetaPi So what did you all decide?

“Is it Worth it?” http://issuu.com/BetaThetaPiAO/...

January 24, 2012 at 01:35 PM

Engage Us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/betathetapi

Linking In Daniel Epstein • I just read your article. I absolutely agree with the concept of new masculinity, from where it’s derived and how it requires cultivating. I plan on connecting with the chapters near Atlanta.

Connect on Linked In: www.betathetapi.org/linkedin

www.betathetapi.org

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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

An Interfraternal Influence “I have dreamed of volunteering with a fraternity like Beta.”

Sitting around the campfire with the men of the Northeastern Colony, I could feel the Beta Spirit amid their interactions. From challenging conversations about the Fraternity’s values, to discussions diving into Beta’s history – and right down to the smallest details in between: Post-it® Notes in delicate shades of pink and blue, used to facilitate their conversations. These men inspired me, and made me realize how proud I am to be their chapter counselor.

Throughout the years, I observed Beta Theta Pi becoming a leading fraternity: I knew something was special about the men of principle developed. As an advocate for interfraternalism, I believe in sharing the variety of resources and experiences members of all Greek organizations offer, to advance the community. When I was asked to join the Northeastern Colony’s advisory team, I jumped at the opportunity.

Cat (second from left) and Northeastern Colony advisors en route to Keystone in the “Wooglin Wagon”

Cat Sohor, Friend of Beta Profession: Assistant Director for Fraternities, Sororities and Independent Living Groups at MIT Greek Affiliation: Theta Phi Alpha women’s fraternity Beta Experience: Chapter Counselor of Northeastern Colony; lead facilitator at Wooden Institute; recognized as Outstanding Friend of Beta at the 2012 Northeast Keystone Leadership Conference Education: B.A. in political science from William Paterson University; M.Ed. in higher education administration from Boston University

Interested in volunteering for Beta?

Email or call Director of Chapter Services Jeff Rundle, Kansas State ’03: jeff.rundle@betathetapi.org or 800.800.BETA.

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

While working with Betas – whether undergraduates or alumni, or from the Northeastern Colony or a chapter across the continent – I am in awe of the commitment to their fraternal values. My involvement with Beta brings me confidence there are other Greek organizations actively challenging the status quo and working each day to prove the importance of Greek life in the college experience.

Whether you are an alumnus or a Friend of Beta, volunteering for Beta is important; we have the ability to give back. At their core, these men have strong values and a hunger to challenge the stereotypes of the Greek community. Along with these traits, they seek mentors and advisors who are willing to share knowledge and experiences, while serving as a support group for the chapter. Connect with Cat at sohor@mit.edu.

CONTENTS

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine | Vol. 139 | No. 2

18

From Student Body President to National Spokesman He never asked to manage this public relations meltdown.

20 From College Classrooms to Crack Houses A liar, a thief, and eventually, a convicted felon.

22 spring 2012

18

Mission To develop men of principle for a principled life.

From Impoverished Dishwasher to NFL Royalty

2 From the Editor

He couldn’t even afford nine dollars per night

6 News and Notes

“The Doctor Just Called”

8 Darkening of the Hall

Fraternity Updates

The Faces of Circumstances

Chapter Closures

10 Marching Along Alumni Accomplishments

Every member will live Beta Theta Pi’s values.

Core Values

14 Oxford Cup Co-Founder of Adobe

To build lasting bonds of friendship and brotherhood, Beta calls for:

INTELLECTUAL GROWTH Betas are devoted to continually cultivating their minds, including high standards of academic achievement.

Tough Times Don’t Discriminate

24

Vision

MUTUAL ASSISTANCE Betas believe that men are mutually obligated to help others in the honorable labors and aspirations of life.

departments 30

in the spotlight

27

15 Interactive Fun How Beta Are You? 16 From the Archives A Glimpse Into History

27

Parents

TRUST Betas develop absolute faith and confidence in one another by being true to themselves and others.

Two Decisions, One Vision

RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT Betas choose to act responsibly, weighing the consequences of their actions on themselves and those around them.

The third volume in L.E. Johnson’s triology

INTEGRITY Betas preserve their character by doing what is morally right and demanding the same from their brothers.

Finding a Way to Stay Connected

38

Betas in the Arts

39

A Lasting Moment

28 Campus Life Undergraduate Highlights

30 Beta Athletes Beta’s Varsity Athletes

33 Beta House If These Walls Could Talk

36 Mystic Shrine In Loving Memory

www.betathetapi.org

5

News and Notes

staff 2012-2013 re/colonizations The Beta Spirit will soon be alive at the following campuses! Beta’s expansion team will work on-site at each campus during the entire 2012-2013 academic year, as they search for young men of principle to join the Re/Founding Father classes, along with recruiting area alumni and Friends of Beta to serve on each colony’s advisory team. To learn more about how you can support Beta’s re/colonization efforts, contact the individuals listed below, or call 800.800.BETA.

CHANGES & New Hires Phil Erford, Dayton ’11, was named on-site colony development coordinator for Beta’s new colony at the University of the Pacific and assumed duties in Stockton, Calif., in January 2012. Phil is responsible for overseeing the recruitment and education of the colony’s Founding Fathers and advisory team. Joining the Administrative Office staff in June 2011, Phil previously served as a leadership consultant for the Southwest region. In June 2012, he will begin serving the Fraternity as a director of expansion. phil.erford@betathetapi.org Fred Myrtle, San Diego ’11, joining the Administrative Office staff in January 2012 as the Southwest region’s leadership consultant, Fred is responsible for working with his region’s chapters and universities to measure and supplement each chapters’ progress. A native of Covington, La., Fred graduated from the University of San Diego, where he served his chapter as president, brotherhood chairman and community outreach chairman. Fred received the General Secretary’s Leadership Award at the 2010 General Convention. fred.myrtle@betathetapi.org

University of the Pacific New Colony Stockton, Calif.

phil.erford@betathetapi.org

Baylor University

Delta Psi Chapter Waco, Texas allen.hardin@betathetapi.org

A CLEAN AUDIT In January, the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors reviewed and accepted each organization’s now separate audit report during the semi-annual joint board meeting, which was held this year in Birmingham. Blue & Co., headquartered in Indianapolis, offered a clean audit report for the 2011 fiscal year upon the completion of the independent audits of both the Fraternity and Foundation. To inquire more about the health and strength of the Fraternity’s financial operations, feel free to engage Director of Business Operations & Finance Joe Budde, Miami ’06, at joe.budde@betathetapi.org, General Treasurer Mike Feinstein, MIT ’82, at mike_feinstein@yahoo.com, or Foundation Treasurer John Stebbins, Emory ’92, at jhstebbins@charter.net.

Beta Kappa Chapter Athens, Ohio allen.hardin@betathetapi.org

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Beta Upsilon Chapter Cambridge, Mass. allen.hardin@betathetapi.org

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THE BETA THETA PI Spring 2012

CHECK THE PULSE With more than 130,000 living alumni and undergraduate members worldwide, how many do you communicate with on a regular basis? Beta’s social media team is developing “the pulse of the Beta nation,” a Twitter list consisting of tweeting Betas across the globe. Followers of the list can view one organized feed of members’ tweets, providing them with an authentic representation of the voice of Beta’s membership at any given moment. Follow and tweet @BetaThetaPi with your chapter and roll number to be included in “the pulse.”

@flickr/darwinbell

Ohio University

News and Notes

the keystone TO SUCCESS

Excellence in Member Education

Outstanding Graduating Senior

Cornell (NE) Minnesota (NC) Washington (NW) South Carolina (SE) San Diego (SW)

Victor Martinelli IV, Carnegie Mellon ’12 (NE) Brent White, Kentucky ’11 (NC) Kellen LaVigne, Washington State ’12 (NW) McKee Thomason, Clemson ’12 (SE) Brandon Mais, Kansas State ’12 (SC) Ryan Boufford, San Diego ’11 (SW) Ryne Supplitt, Loyola Marymount ’12 (SW)

Excellence in Membership Recruitment Maine (NE) Kettering B (NC) Whitman (NW) Florida (SE) Kansas State (SC) Loyola Marymount (SW)

Outstanding Friend of Beta

Excellence in Self Governance Connecticut (NE) Wittenberg (NC) Washington (NW) Clemson (SE) Wichita State (SC) San Diego (SW)

Cara Jenkins (NE) Catherine Sohor (NE) Malinda Matney (NC) Ashley Whitlatch (NW) Deanne Walters (SE) Brandon Miller (SC) Amy Buch (SW)

Outstanding Volunteer

Leadership Development Award Maryland (NE) Wisconsin-Oshkosh (NC) Eastern Washington (NW) Florida International (SE) Westminster (SC) San Diego (SW)

David Bobart, John Hopkins ’96 (NE) Lucas Christain, Iowa ’08 (NC) Randy Master, Hanover ’82 (NC) Joseph Buchanan, Washington State ’53 (NW) Garrett Hyer, Central Florida ’08 (SE) Jeffrey Cartmell, Oklahoma ’09 (SC) Tom Martin, Loyola Marymount ’08 (SW)

Outstanding Fraternity/Sorority Advising Professional

Outstanding Advisory Team Virginia Tech (NE) Minnesota (NC) Washington (NW) South Carolina (SE) Oklahoma (SC) San Jose State (SW)

Todd Sullivan, University of Connecticut (NE) Carol Preston, Wittenberg University (NC) Mo Stephens, University of Puget Sound (NW) Paul Kittle, Auburn University (SE) Amy Long, University of Kansas (SC) Alli Segal, Chapman University (SW) Region Key NE = Northeast | SE = Southeast | NC = North Central SC = South Central | NW = Northwest | SW = Southwest

interfraternally speaking

DG — With a shared goal of saving eyesight, Delta Gamma and TOMS Inc., established “The Great Fight for Sight”: a movement across collegiate and alumnae DG chapters to restore eyesight. For every pair of TOMS glasses purchased in connection with DG, TOMS donates a pair of glasses or sight-saving surgery to individuals around the world.

April 2012 Merit Scholarship Deadline...................... 1 laura.lednik@betathetapi.org Men of Principle Scholarship Grant Deadline........................................... 1 andrew.porter-price@betathetapi.org UIFI Registration Deadline........................ 1 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org Wooden Institute Registration Deadline.............................. 1 megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org Washington, D.C., Alumni Association Brunch............................... 28 cohen.jay@gmail.com

MAy 2012 BLF Gift Deadline for FY12 .................... 31 ryan.king@betathetapi.org

upcoming events

In February, the General Fraternity held six Keystone Regional Leadership Conferences across North America, focusing on chapter officer development, principled leadership, and volunteer training for more than 950 undergraduates and 180 General Fraternity Officers and chapter advisors – making 2012 the largest Keystone participation to date! Congratulations to the following chapters and individuals who were recognized this year:

June 2012 Wooden Institute Session 1................. 9-13 Oxford, Ohio megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org Wooden Institute Session 2...............23-27 Oxford, Ohio megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org

July 2012 Wooden Institute Session 3..................7-11 Oxford, Ohio megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org Convention Symposium Registration Deadline............................. 15 ryan.king@betathetapi.org 173rd General Convention Registration Deadline............................. 15 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org Leadership College Registration Deadline............................. 15 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org

FDQ— Phi Delta Theta’s Executive Vice President, Bob Biggs, was presented with a portrait of 23rd U.S. President Benjamin Harrison (a former chapter president of Phi Delt’s chapter at Miami University) by the chapter’s current president, Beck Parker. Beck represents a special lineage for Phi Delt, as he is a descendant of President Harrison. www.betathetapi.org

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Darkening of the hall

Time, the Wisest Counselor of All West Chester closes after just nine years Beta Theta Pi’s Board of Trustees, in collaboration with alumni leaders and university officials, announced on December 19, 2011, the closure of the Zeta Sigma Chapter at West Chester University.

Founded on the West Chester, Penn., campus in 2002, the chapter posted 25 undergraduate members.

West Chester University Location: West Chester, Penn.

Greek Designation: Zeta Sigma Founded: February 2, 2002 Chapter Motto: “We seek to share in each other’s grief and joy” Total Initiates: 168 Reason for closure: Risk Management

During the last few years, the chapter was held accountable by the alumni, university and General Fraternity for incidents involving drug and alcohol abuse and conduct unbecoming of a member of Beta Theta Pi. The chapter advisors, alumni, university representatives and Beta’s Oxford-based staff worked diligently to reverse the chapter’s culture; such attempts included a recent reorganization where a membership review was conducted by the chapter’s district chief and advisors.

However, insufficient progress was made and it was decided that in keeping with our commitment to the core mission of West Chester University and Beta Theta Pi, closure of the chapter was the only appropriate option.

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

During this period of closure, all ritual books and historic artifacts have been moved into storage. Although the chapter has been disbanded, the charter will remain on suspension, which will allow for a return to campus at a mutually agreeable time for all parties.

Feel free to contact Director of Chapter Operations Justin Warren, SMU ’10 (justin.warren@betathetapi.org) at 800.800.BETA if you have any questions or concerns. To learn more about potential recolonization efforts, contact Assistant District Chief Justin Foster, West Chester ’11 (justin.foster109@gmail.com).

GUESSWHO?

is attending the 173rd General Convention in Chicago . . .

Awards Luncheon

Friday Afternoon | August 3

We lcoming Banquet

Thursday Evening | August 2

2011 Nobel Prize Recipient

Join hundreds of Betas and guests during this official 173rd kickoff.

Dale T. Mortensen, Willamette ’61

Former Lt. Governor of Indiana

John Mutz, Northwestern ’57

John Reily Knox Club Recogn it ion Dinne r

Inaugural Housing Summit

Relaxed and entertaining dinner for FY12 and FY13 donors of $1,500+ to the Beta Leadership Fund.

Participate in Beta’s long-awaited new program designed specifically for House Corporation members. to the Beta Leadership Fund.

Friday Evening | August 3

August 2-5

United States District Judge

James B. Zagel, Chicago ’62

Convention Symposium August 2-5

Shepardson Award Honoree

For all alumni, Sweethearts and Friends of Beta, participate in exciting classes (but no tests!) and enjoy world-renowned speakers and excursions.

Peter W. C. Barnhart, Miami ’66

Celebrat ion Banquet Saturday Evening | August 4 Chapters with 10+ alumni in attendance will receive reserved seating at Saturday’s closing banquet, which includes Sisson and Knox Award recognitions.

Cheer on award-winning chapters and colonies during the annual luncheon that celebrates their campus achievements.

Penn State Student Body President TJ Bard, Penn State ’13

Meet Them in Person!

August 2-5, 2012

www.betathetapi.org/convention

Pennington & Co. Greek Fundraising Firm Patrick Alderdice, President

MARCHING ALONG

Shining Stars of Beta Theta Pi

2

A lot of people can grow potatoes, but Brandon Berce, Maine ’06 (right), sets himself apart through his ability to successfully market his crop and maintain a successful business at his family’s farms in St. Agatha, Maine. In January, the Maine Potato Board selected Brandon as the Young Farmer of the Year for 2012, calling him “an excellent representative of the future of the Maine potato industry.”

3

Following a thorough, year-long review of some 100 candidates, Tim Wolfe, Missouri ’80, was appointed the University of Missouri System’s 23rd president and assumed his official duties on February 15. With a three-year contract as president, Tim returns to the UM System with 30 years of experience as a business executive, most recently with IBM.

1

Looking to rock out to some upbeat, new music? Check out AudioDax, an electronic hip-hop band composed of two Beta brothers: Thomas Balcom, DePauw ’11, and Matt Rivera, DePauw ’11. Visit www.AudioDax.com to download their two albums, Pop Rocks and Annexation, and for tour date information.

“THE GREAT USE OF LIFE IS TO SPEND IT FOR SOMETHING THAT WILL OUTLAST IT.” — William James

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

7

Iowa State’s College of Veterinary Medicine presented the 2011 Stange Award for Meritorious Service to Dr. William F. (Bill) McCulloch, Iowa State ’56. The award is the highest honor given to alumni of the college. Congratulate Bill at billmacdvm@comcast.net.

8

The American Association for Justice awarded Greg Cusimano, Alabama ’65, the Leonard M. Ring Champion of Justice Award: one of the nation’s highest legal honors. Greg is the only attorney from Alabama who has ever received this honor. Congratulate Greg at greg@alabamatortlaw.com.

MARCHING ALONG

4

In pursuit of achieving his lifelong dream of competing in the Olympic Games, Inaki Gomez, British Columbia ’10, has spent the past two seasons training in Australia, Canada, China, the U.K., Germany and Russia.

Inaki qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games in London in his event, the 20km race walk, with a time of 1:22:06; the Olympic “A” standard in this event is 1:22:30. Visit www.inakigomez.com to follow his journey to the 2012 Olympics!

6 5

Following a $30,000 fundraising campaign, Blake Robbins, Wichita State ’87, wrote and directed his first movie, The Sublime and Beautiful, promoting a message about drunk driving. With a local cast and crew from Lawrence, Kansas, filming lasted 13 days. Follow the movie’s post-production progress on its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/TheSublimeandBeautiful.

9

Christopher E. Wolfla, M.D., Indiana ’87, was elected the president of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. He is a professor of neurosurgery and director of the residency program in neurological surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Congratulate Christopher at cwolfla@mcw.edu.

10

Named “Lawyer of the Year 2012”

by Best Lawyers in America, Stuart D. Shanor, Wittenberg ’59, was also inducted into the Roehl Circle of Honor for Trial Lawyers, joining only 42 other trial lawyers in New Mexico who have received this honor. Congratulate him at sshanor@hinklelawfirm.com.

Filmmaker Dan Lindsay, Missouri ’01 (right), won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature at the 84th Academy Awards for his film, Undefeated.

The film documents a Memphis high school football team’s struggle to success through the guidance of a devoted coach. View the trailer at weinsteinco.com/sites/undefeated.

Have you been “marching along” with job promotions, athletic feats, interesting inventions, military service or other notable accomplishments? Email beta@betathetapi.org or mail a letter to the Administrative Office with the subject line “Marching Along.”

www.betathetapi.org

11

ALUMNI NEWS

Lifelong Fraternal Brotherhood

1

Know any Betas from the Tampa Bay area? Formed in December, the group’s first event was held at The Pub at International Plaza in late January. Twenty alumni spanning seven generations and nine alma maters (including General Secretary David Schmidt, South Florida ’92) came together for an evening of laughs and brotherhood at the “Meet-N-Greet Mixer.”

Interested in meeting up with the jolly crew? Contact Robert Billoni, Florida Atlantic ’95, at rbilloni@verizon.net, or visit www.facebook.com/tampabetas for future event details.

2

At the 2011 North Palm Beach Kiwanis golf outing, local Beta brothers united on the green at North Palm Beach Country Club in North Palm Beach, Fla., to raise money for youth programs. Pictured are Tom Mayes, Georgia Tech ’54, George Swartout, Wabash ’59, and Denny Shogren, Hanover ’60, standing with the hole they sponsored in Beta Theta Pi’s honor.

3

Initiated as Roll No. 617 of the Eta Chapter in 1947, Brother Ralph Hoyt, North Carolina ’46, was presented with the Fraternal 50s pin in January, by Brother Clayton Riley, Ohio ’50. Although the two men were from different Beta chapters, they are currently members of the same country club in Jacksonville, Fla., where they enjoy maintaining a great friendship through their Beta bonds.

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

ALUMNI NEWS

4

In January, more than 230 Betas and Beta Sweethearts gathered in Birmingham for the Fraternity’s Alumni Appreciation Dinner. The evening was emceed by General Fraternity President Doug Houser, Willamette ’57, and celebrated the state of our Great and Good Fraternity. With representation from 28 Beta chapters, the evening also recognized the founding of Beta’s chapters at Alabama and Auburn.

5

In pursuit of reconnecting with Betas he met from his college years, John Gatz, Florida ’54 (above: right), and his wife, Jane, embarked on a six week trip to Florida. Along their travels across Florida, he managed to track down and reconnect with nine Beta brothers, including Don Asher, Florida ’53 (above: left), who served in the army with John.

6

Former college roommates and occupants of Room #3 in the Alpha chapter house have continued their friendship for 35 years. Phil Cottrell, Miami ’77, David Teckman, Miami ’78, and James Ellis III, Miami ’77, along with their wives and kids, recently met in Brentwood, Tenn., for a “Room Three Reunion,” where they were each presented a plaque and Fraternal 25 pin, recognizing their lifelong Beta commitment.

7

Have you and your Beta brothers stayed true to lifelong fraternal brotherhood by attending an alumni event or celebrating a chapter anniversary? Email beta@ betathetapi.org or mail a letter with photos to the Administrative Office with the subject line “Alumni News.”

8

In honor of the 93rd birthday of Ambassador John Dolibois, Miami ’42, two Beta brothers and their wives – Fran and Joseph Hall, Cincinnati ’69, and Peggy and Duff Shardelow, Miami ’55, gathered for a birthday celebration with John. While enjoying dinner at the Hall household, John shared a number of stories about his life experiences and Beta throughout the past 93 years of his life. Happy Birthday, John!

Graduating from Wooden Institute together in 2010, Tim Hermann, Dayton ’10, recently made a 350 mile treck down to Tuscalooza, Ala., where he visited Cole Mattox, Alabama ’13, and other Delta Theta chapter brothers.

www.betathetapi.org

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Oxford Cup

John E.

Warnock Utah ’62 | Oxford Cup Roll No. 075

John E. Warnock, Co-Founder of Adobe Systems, Inc. The Oxford Cup The Fraternity awards the Oxford Cup in recognition of achievement of the highest order by a Beta.

Recipients must be loyal members of Beta Theta Pi who have brought honor to the Fraternity through distinguished service and accomplishments in their chosen professional fields.

The Oxford Cup was developed in 1984, by then President Peter E. Van de Water, St. Lawrence ’58, and General Secretary B. Hume Morris, Centre ’68. Brother Morris also wrote the award ceremony and designed the Cup, a smaller version of the Pater Knox Golden Wedding Loving Cup.

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THE BETA THETA PI Spring 2012

Recognized for his distinguished service and professional accomplishments as co-founder of Adobe Systems, Inc., Dr. John E. Warnock, Utah ’62, becomes the Fraternity’s 75th recipient of the Oxford Cup at the Salt Lake City Alumni Appreciation Dinner on March 24, 2012.

In 1982, Warnock co-founded Adobe Systems, building the company from a small startup to one of the world’s largest and most recognized software companies.

Warnock pioneered the development of graphics, publishing, and web and electronic document technologies which have revolutionized the field of publishing and visual communication.

Serving as president of Adobe during his first two years, Warnock served as CEO for the next 16 years. Retiring as CEO in 2000, and CTO in 2001, Warnock currently serves as co-chairman of the board, where he continues to shape the direction of the nearly $3 billion company.

A strong supporter of higher education, Warnock and his wife, Marva, donated 200,000 shares of Adobe Systems (valued at more than $5.7 million) in 2003, as the main gift for the new engineering building at the University of Utah. They have also supported three presidential endowed chairs in computer science, mathematics and fine arts at the University of Utah, and endowed a chair in medical research at Stanford University.

At the University of Utah, Warnock earned his B.S. in mathematics and philosophy, an M.S. in mathematics and his Ph.D. in electrical engineering. Initiated as Roll No. 1,019 of the Gamma Beta Chapter on May 17, 1959, the Beta Spirit runs deep in the Warnock family; several of his relatives are initiated brothers of the chapter at Utah, including his son, Christopher M. Warnock, Utah ’91, and his brother, Thomas V. Warnock, Utah ’57.

— Michael Roupas, Iowa ’10, michael.roupas@betathetapi.org

Interactive Fun

How beta Are You? So you read The Beta Theta Pi magazine, huh?

That’s cool . . . but how Beta are you, really?

Focus your mind and answer these questions to assess your Beta IQ. Your Brothers How many initiated members of Beta Theta Pi can you name?

A. B. C.

D.

No one besides my son or me Most or all of my pledge class All of my chapter brothers plus a few who I met at the General Convention I’ve traveled to chapters and conventions for years and can name dozens of Betas

Beta’s Broad Domain How many schools can you name (without looking online) that have active Beta chapters?

A. B. C.

D.

Just one My school and a few nearby rivals Close to 25, considering some of the big state schools across North America I can name most or all of the 120 universities and colleges with a Beta chapter

Beta Singing How well do you help carry the banner of the Singing Fraternity?

A. B. C. D.

What are the words to the Beta Doxology?

Marching Along, Gemma Nostra and more I’m the one who starts Ti-De-I-De-O I can sing in four-part harmony

Beta History Can you explain what happened in these historical events?

A. “At nine o’clock on the evening . . .”

B. The Snowball Rebellion of 1848 C. The 1879 merger with Alpha Sigma Chi D. Fouding of the Toronto Chapter Fund in 1916

Beta Leadership/ Volunteering How many ways have you served the Fraternity?

A. B.

C.

D.

I helped build the homecoming float I held an executive/cabinet officer position in my own chapter My college days are behind me, so I volunteer for the Beta chapter closest to me I’ve dedicated my life to developing men of principle

Beta Values Do you really know what Beta stands for?

A. The mission is something about Men of Principle, right?

B. I know and fully understand Beta’s public core values C. I can recite and discuss the principles and obligations D. I know the Ritual and try to live it every day

Beta Foundation/Giving How generous are you with the Beta Foundation?

A. B.

C.

D.

I think I donated once . . .

I give a little to the Beta Leadership Fund every year I’m able to give $1,500 or more per year and have a seat at the JRK Club dinner I joined the Bridge Builder Society by including the Foundation in my estate plan

Scoring The following point values are assigned for each answer:

A. 0 points B. 1 points C. 3 points D. 5 points Total your points to determine “How Beta Are You: 0-10 points

Your Beta pulse is fading.

Beta Greats Can you recite why these men are considered Beta Greats?

11-20 points

A. John Reily Knox, Miami 1839 B. . . . and Francis W. Shepardson,

Denison 1882/Brown 1883 C. . . . and Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869 D. . . . and Wyllys C. Ransom, Michigan 1848

21-30 points

We have a solid man of principle here.

Yes, oh yes, you are a Beeetaaa!

31-40 points

You’ve always bled pink and blue.

www.betathetapi.org

15

From the Archives

Oxford, Ohio, 1861

Dodds was invested in this Civil War. After serving stints with two different infantries, he became lieutenant colonel, First Alabama Union Cavalry.

He remained in the cavalry until the war’s end, and returned to Miami to accept his degree.

He studied law at the University of Cincinnati (the fourth oldest continually running law school in the United States), being admitted to the bar in 1866. Four years later, Dodds had a seat in the Ohio House of Representatives. Under the President Ulysses S. Grant, Dodds and his colleagues in 42nd Congress founded Yellowstone National Park, and tackled pivotal legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1871.

In the face of circumstance, the man was not satisfied. When no one took a leadership role, he made his own hard decisions, acting boldly and earning his place in American history. Though President Lincoln did not acknowledge him personally, Dodds Hall at Miami University stands to this day, forever paying tribute to this man of principle.

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THE BETA THETA PI Spring 2012

. . . a sound of alarm that brought every soldier to his feet.

With a pull of the trigger, the American Civil War commenced. As that first shot was fired from Fort Sumter, S.C., a young man named Ozro J. Dodds, Miami 1861, was quietly studying in a university chapel in southwestern Ohio. Though there was no Facebook on January 9, 1861, the news of the ensuing war spread quickly.

To end the South’s rebellion, President Lincoln called for 75,000 volunteers — bold citizen action was needed immediately. Rather than wait for further instruction, Dodds took ownership of the situation at hand. The fraternity man took up arms for the governor of Ohio, but he also used the skills he learned in Beta: recruitment.

He walked the campus far and wide — ascended each staircase he could find — and before the afternoon sun had set, Dodds had enlisted nearly 200 students in the volunteer army that he was organizing. The following week, Dodds trained his men, marching them up and down the quaint streets of Oxford, preparing his “chapter” for the fight of its life.

In bright red shirts, Ozro J. Dodds and his “University Rifles” departed for Columbus, the capital city of Ohio. Upon arrival at Camp Jackson, his men stepped off the platform as Company B, 20th Ohio Infantry, of the Northern Army that would win the war.

leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

FROM STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT TO NATIONAL SPOKESMAN p. 18

FROM COLLEGE CLASSROOMS TO CRACK HOUSES p. 20

FROM IMPOVERISHED DISHWASHER TO NFL ROYALTY p. 22

Leading in the

of

www.betathetapi.org

17

@ямВickr/Stuckincustoms

CIRCUMSTANCE

ConďŹ dential meetings about multi-million dollar contracts?

TJ Bard does more than that.

Any given day he’s asked to weigh in on a litany of logistical details. He is planning what is likely the most important homecoming celebration in 157 years, as well as maintaining the public image of one of the most massive educational institutions in the world . . . . . . while somehow carving out time for academic excellence, enjoying the fraternity experience, exercising regularly and calling mom and dad.

Credit: Melanie Versaw

HE NEVER ASKED TO MANAGE THIS PUBLIC RELATIONS MELTDOWN

18

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

From Student Body President to National Spokesman TJ Bard, Penn State ’13 He’s juggling 12 balls at any given moment, and that’s when his world isn’t collapsing around him. The already infamous Penn State scandal ripped the community apart and shocked the world . . . welcome to the circumstances of Student Body President TJ Bard, Penn State ’13.

So many sleepless nights | “I couldn’t attend class for two weeks. My professors understood and let me make up the work.

I felt so many emotions all at once. I couldn’t let the world think the wrong thing about Penn State. If people were going to make a judgment, I would do everything I could to show the world every side of our story — not just the story of the spotlighted few.

The Penn State family includes thousands of extraordinary individuals, and somebody needed to showcase that.

Life was ringing off the hook | “I got nearly 2,000 emails in the three week period starting right after the scandal broke. Three people were answering my phone calls on two different lines, and fielding all of my emails. CNN, FOX News and ESPN wanted interviews; so did Dr. Phil and Howard Stern. I couldn’t even leave the Beta house without media following me around. We called on the brotherhood to help with the chaos — we only allowed people we knew in our house.

Day number one | “I called an emergency meeting of student leaders at 8:00 the night the story started unfolding. A select 12 of us met in the alumni center to discuss scenarios, until we heard that ‘the announcement’ was imminent. We all ran to

the Beta house, huddled around our TV and watched each other’s hearts sink as Paterno and Spanier were publicly fired. Within seconds, we heard it: the riots had begun.

students’ emotions into something more useful than flipping parked cars, so we organized a candlelight vigil (10,000 people) and a “blue out” for child abuse at the next football game (100,000 people).

Two events were not going to solve the problem entirely, but they were the best ‘next actions’ we could determine at the time.”

To Old Main | “So we ran out of Beta and followed the uproar. I navigated the crowds of the darkened quad and sprinted to the top of the Old Main steps, pleading “Do yourself a favor: go look up TJ Bard with those gathered on youtube. He has been the strongest to just go home. and most effective representative of the Unable to listen, they marched university to date. He’ll be the head of toward downtown, something someday...” — Debbie Davis, Professor of and running again, Journalism/PR, speaking at the Fraternity Communications I tried to get ahead.

Association Midyear Conference Even the riot police could not calm the crowd, so I burst into an apartment His definition of leadership | “It changes building and climbed to a balcony. I so much,” he says. “True leaders are found could finally stop running and catch my in times of great crisis; it’s easy to lead in breath — staring wide-eyed into this sea of times of prosperity.” TJ had 44,000 students absolute madness — and painfully realized to deal with while the eyes of the world I couldn’t do anything. None of them could were on him — a college student with be led right now. Words were not needed books, friends, athletics and his own family. here, direction was, so I hunted down “But somebody needed to say something,” those 11 other leaders and locked us in a he said. “Penn Staters derive strength in small room, far away from this insanity. We being united, so we provided something remained there until dawn. concrete to focus on and believe in.” The next morning, the media discussion had A boiling over of emotions | shifted — it had become about the victims “The next day, our community had no and justice for them. — Geoff Lewis, UCLA idea what to do, how to react, where to go ’09, geoff.lewis@betathetapi.org or what to think — these people needed something to believe in. I knew in my For a behind-the-scenes look at TJ Bard, heart what I believed: this wasn’t about a visit www.betathetapi.org/tjbard to access university’s legacy or a football program — the line-by-line transcript of TJ’s interview. this was about those victims. We had to figure out how to channel the

www.betathetapi.org

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A LIAR, A THIEF, AND EVENTUALLY, A CONVICTED FELON

In what seemed like only moments, Rex Turner became everything he said he would never become: a liar, a thief, and eventually, a convicted felon. Along the way, he managed to devastate everyone who loved him, over. hurting them over and over Placing himself in unexpected and dangerous circumstaces to feed his addiction, everyone had turned away from Rex — except his parents and a core group of Beta brothers.

“I’d drive to meet drug dealers with tears in my eyes,” said Rex. “ I’ve been stabbed, dodged bullets and left beaten and bloody on numerous occassions. I didn’t want to be this person, but I couldn’t control myself.”

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

@flickr/ecstaticist

Convicted of theft and forgery, Rex was eventually sentenced to two years in prison.

leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

FROM COLLEGE CLASSROOMS TO CRACK HOUSES Rev. Rex Turner, Tennessee ‘93 Spiraling down to rock bottom | As unpleasant as prison was, it failed to serve as a deterrent to Rex’s addiction.

Upon his release one year later, he asked a drug dealer to pick him up outside of the prison gates. “I was on parole for one year and managed to use drugs without being caught,” he said. “At the end of my parole period, I really lost my mind to addiction.

My life became a furious pursuit of crack cocaine without any regard to who I hurt along the way. Every single day, every hour, every minute was consumed with stealing, lying and using. I didn’t eat. I didn’t sleep.

And I hated myself.

“My parents were forced to change the locks on their home several times. When I showed up on their doorstep to eat or take a nap, my father would lock his credit cards and checkbook in the trunk of his car. When my mother retired after 30 years of employment, she was presented with a set of sterling silver candlesticks; I pawned them off for dope.

I knew the pain my parents would endure would be brief compared to another 20 years of agony watching me continue down a destructive path.”

A lunch-break miracle | Just before Rex could retrieve the gun, his father entered the body shop. Dressed in a work suit and tie, Rex’s father had stopped by on his lunch break looking for him. “Son, let me help you,” his father said. Rex yelled at him, telling him he had tried to change and couldn’t – there was something wrong in his head – he didn’t deserve his father’s love, and he wasn’t worth the effort. Rex told his father to leave, but he wouldn’t. “Son, let me help you,” his father repeated. “I heard a man talk about a program the other day called Teen Challenge. Will you try it – for me?”

EVERYONE HAD TURNED AWAY FROM REX — EXCEPT HIS PARENTS AND A CORE GROUP OF BETA BROTHERS.

Choosing a permanent solution | “Sitting in a body shop I frequented in East Nashville, I realized the full extent of who I had become. I couldn’t bear the thought of my mother crying herself to sleep every night. I couldn’t cope knowing my father was ashamed of me.”

Rex stood up and began walking towards the next room, where he knew the body shop owner kept a gun. “My decision was made, he said. “I would retrieve the gun, put the barrel in my mouth and pull the trigger.

With his father’s refusal to leave the shop, Rex agreed to try the program, even though he didn’t have hope he could change.

Starting over | With the program’s faith-based approach to helping overcome addictions, the first lesson Rex learned was he didn’t have to be an addict forever; instead, he could live a new life through faith. “In Teen Challenge, I persevered through my addiction for 13 months and became a true believer in the power of God,” Rex said. “Through my parents’ unconditional love, I finally found the help I needed.

“When I began rebuilding my life, my Beta brothers were the first ones to welcome me back. I was so consumed with shame and guilt of who I had become, I wondered if anyone could see me apart from my misdeeds. My brothers from the Delta Kappa Chapter saw me only as their long lost brother who had finally returned.”

A new challenge | With Rex’s new life beginning to take form, he discovered a new challenge to face. With more than 200 Teen Challenge centers supporting individuals across the nation, Rex recognized only 15 centers were exclusively for women.

“In 2008, I helped established four Teen Challenge centers across four states where young women with similar, life-controlling problems could finally find the support they need,” Rex said. “Currently, these centers assist more than 85 women, providing the same, faith-based support I received.”

At a time when his life was spiraling to rock bottom, Rex found that his parents, Beta brothers and God never gave up hope that he could turn himself around. Their unconditional love during times when he couldn’t even love or trust himself, served as a rock which Rex could grip on to for support, while everything inside of him was crumbling. With their support – and a glimmer of personal hope that life could be better - Rex overcame his battle with addiction and developed into a new man, now providing the same love and support to others who are facing similar circumstances.

— Michael Roupas, Iowa ’10, michael.roupas@betathetapi.org

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21

A wide-eyed Pakistani stepped off a Greyhound bus into a brutal snowstorm — one of the worst on record. The 16-year-old immigrant had never seen snow. It doesn’t exist in Lahore, Pakistan.

With a high school diploma and a few dollars in his pocket, Shahid Khan started chasing the American dream. He would soon be a University of Illinois freshman.

Seeking shelter for his first night in Champaign, Illinois, Shahid couldn’t afford the $9 to stay at the student union hotel, so he checked into the local YMCA for $2. The next day, he’d start his first job: washing dishes for $1.20 per hour. And so were the circumstances of Shahid Khan, Illinois ’71, the first minority to ever rise to own a team in the National Football League.

22

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

@flickr/GeoffLMV

HE COULDN’T EVEN AFFORD NINE DOLLARS PER NIGHT

leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

FROM IMPOVERISHED DISHWASHER TO NFL ROYALTY Shahid Khan, Illinois ’71 One must embrace change | When school started bustling in the fall of 1967, Khan did not seek a Pakistani student group. Instead, he took a feet-first plunge into his newfound culture and signed up to rush the Illinois fraternities.

The Beta Experience | Joining Beta’s Sigma Rho Chapter exposed Shahid to American women, sports cars, the Wall Street Journal and football. The aspiring engineer became a social butterfly, observing and adopting the necessary skills to succeed in his strange, beautiful new environment.

which made car bumpers for customized pickup trucks. After finding success as an entrepreneur, he bought his old employer and dove even deeper into his work.

Khan’s curiosity — and Detroit’s original disinterest — led him to explore the Japanese carmakers. Soon he discovered Toyota’s need for after-market bumpers on their small truck imports. On his way to building Flex-N-Gate into a $3 billion company with 12,000 employees, Shahid forged relationships at Southeast Toyota in Jacksonville, Fla. He made monthly trips for over a year, ironically unaware of the city’s future significance.

“BETA WAS A VERY SELECTIVE HOUSE . . .

Nothing but the very best | When Khan decided to pivot to athletics, he immediately COLLEGE PAL DAVID SHOLEM. “THE BETAS had a lead. The Fighting Illini’s INVITED HIM OUT OF CURIOSITY AND FOR athletic director offered Khan and his Beta Sweetheart-turnedFUN, AND THEY ABSOLUTELY LOVED HIM.” wife Ann the chance to endow their alma mater’s basketball arena. The While still in school, he began working; Khans declined, opting instead to give the at a small manufacturing company called university $10 million for a tennis center and Flex-N-Gate, he designed and machined an academic building — both of which now various auto parts. Through charm and bear their name. Though Illinois provided his hard work, he landed a full-time job as an earliest beginnings, Khan’s hunger for big engineering director upon graduation. business was insatiable. He was ready to Then he decided to take over the business. run with the big dogs . . . and the big cats.

His employer’s product wasn’t selling | Are you ready for some football | The On sales calls to Detroit, doors were St. Louis Rams were an obvious option; slammed in his face: We already have the owner had just passed away. Chip another supplier we’re quite happy with.

Rosenbloom, the former owner’s son, Who are you anyway? In true Shahid recalled Khan’s waiting two months out fashion, he embraced his obstacle and of respect before asking if inquiring about crushed it. He founded Bumper Works,

AND A VERY WHITE HOUSE,” REMEMBERS

a purchase would be inappropriate.

Rosenbloom recognized Khan possessed the character worthy of his father’s legacy, and initiated talks of selling the team.

Khan made Rosenbloom a satisfying offer; the deal was accepted and going to happen. At the very last minute, the 40% owner exercised his legal right to force Rosenbloom to sell to him. Khan was disappointed . . . but as you may have guessed, he was already planning on facing that circumstance.

Asking the important questions | Throughout conversations with the St. Louis Rams, Khan probed for wisdom about team building, exciting a fan base and how to build a lasting franchise. He was becoming feverishly curious about this NFL business.

Coincidentally, Khan and Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver had met four years prior, and in September 2010, the two men and their families shared the owner’s box for the season opener against the Broncos.

Shahid’s mix of charm, hard work and Beta Spirit inspired Weaver to take action.

Khan would remain anonymous for nearly a year. The story broke in early December 2011 to great fanfare in the NFL community.

The Fraternity learned quickly of Brother Khan’s story, garnering a rare 109 Likes, 17 comments and 20 shares on Beta’s Facebook page. The man is Beta’s hero for good reason: he arrived with nothing, learned charm and persistence, and forged truly authentic relationships. His billion-dollar empire is the simple byproduct of a wisely spent Beta Spirit. — Geoff Lewis, UCLA ’09, geoff.lewis@betathetapi.org

www.betathetapi.org

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leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

“The doctor just called.”

TJ Hutchings, Oklahoma ’10

One week prior, Eric joined more than 100 presidents at the Fraternity’s 2011 Presidents Academy leadership program in Oxford. Inspired and motivated, he was eager to make long-term changes necessary to ensure his chapter’s success.

Upon his return to campus, Eric learned of a unauthorized social event which occurred while he was in Oxford. Recognizing the chapter was already on probation with the university and General Fraternity, Eric assured his brothers they were in this together no matter what happened.

Days later, the chapter closed.

Fast forward 12 months — Eric returned to the 2012 Presidents Academy to share his story with the next generation of chapter presidents. “While it wasn’t easy to revisit the circumstances our chapter faced, I wanted others to learn from our mistakes to avoid experiencing the same fate.” Connect with Eric at EL424109@gmail.com.

24

THE BETA THETA PI Spring 2012

@flickr/sfxeric

“EMERGENCY, CALL ME ASAP,” read a text message sent to Chapter President Eric Lang, Ohio ’13, from his chapter brother.

While his friends were finalizing college plans and enjoying their senior year of high school, TJ Hutchings was about to face 42 weeks of chemotherapy, coupled with eight weeks of radiation for Ewing’s Sarcoma bone cancer. Losing his hair, a collegiate baseball scholarship and the senior year experience were insignificant compared to the physical obstacles he was about to face.

All I wanted to do was survive | Radiation complications and five intestinal surgeries stripped me of 85 pounds, confining me to a wheelchair and my bedroom. My days were consumed with doctor appointments, nurses, nausea and an endless cocktail of medicine: five pills in the morning, five in the afternoon and five more at night.

Challenging myself to remain positive, I developed an untested, non-scientific philosophy – “The Power of Positivity” – which served as my rock throughout my battles. By committing myself to positive thoughts and actions, I knew I could face any challenges I would encounter.

Acclimating back to normalcy | After postponing college for a year during my recovery, I was ready for new challenges.

With my mother’s support, I enrolled at the University of Oklahoma, where I began a full course load and joined Beta Theta Pi. Though I never became a collegiate athlete, I did meet the love of my life — my fiancée,

Allison — and served as president of the Gamma Phi Chapter, where I successfully led 200 men through their own challenges with the “positivity philosophy.”

Inspired by my fraternal experiences, I accepted a job with Beta upon graduation.

A year later, I relocated to Texas to establish a colony at Texas Christian University. With the “positivity philosophy” in mind, I recruited and educated 79 Founding Fathers — who, in their first semester, recruited a 22-man pledge class and achieved the highest GPA of all IFC men’s groups.

Overcoming a life-threatening battle | My life could have been easily derailed, but I wouldn’t allow it. By taking control of my own thoughts and actions, and challenging myself daily with the “positivity philosophy,” I persevered through the darkest period of my life. With a positive mindset, I remain confident that others can overcome their own challenges, as well.­ Connect with TJ at tj.hutchings@betathetapi.org.

leading in the face of of circumstance | spring 2012 leading in the face circumstance | spring 2012

Aaron Moore, Wittenberg ’12

En route to Beta’s Keystone Conference with his chapter’s executive team, President Aaron Moore’s van was cut off by a reckless driver, changing the course of their trip and his life forever.

Colliding with the backend of a semi-truck, their vehicle crashed into a snowy ditch off the highway.

Indescribable agony | The impact from the crash caused the van’s dashboard to cave in, trapping me inside. As my brothers escaped from the wreckage, the van caught fire and engulfed my legs in the flames. Acting quickly, my brothers threw snow on my legs until a man ran over and extinguished the flames. By this point, my body was in shock. My brother climbed back into the vehicle, comforting me until rescue crews arrived at the scene.

With third and fourth degree burns on my legs and feet, the day unfolded with immediate surgeries and unexpected, lifechanging announcement from the doctors – I was given a 50% chance of survival.

Throughout the next six weeks, I underwent numerous surgeries, skin grafts and vigorous physical therapy, where I learned to walk again. During this time, I challenged myself to maintain my studies and prepare for my duties as chapter president.

Throughout the excruciating pain and racing thoughts of whether I’d lose my legs, I challenged myself to maintain “presidency mode,” realizing this was my crucible moment as a leader. To prevent inducing further panic, I instructed my brothers to refrain from calling my parents until the time was right. When I was finally extracted from the van, I made the difficult call to my mother on the way to the hospital. All I could say was: “It’s not good. It’s just not good.”

A stronger leader | Following my recovery, I served the chapter as president for two terms, leading the men as we progressed from a 19-man group that was “in trouble,” to a 46-man chapter that excelled academically.

Though I lost the opportunity to develop strategic chapter goals with my brothers at Keystone, the unexpected obstacles I faced taught me to persevere though those crucible moments to influence positive change. Connect with Aaron at s12.amoore@wittenberg.edu.

“It’s just

not good.”

“Trees came straight to the windshield.

I covered my face and thought I would die.” — Chapter President Connor Gifford, Iowa ’14

With 448 miles of icy roads separating Connor from the Presidents Academy in Oxford, he began the eight hour trip. Unfortunately, driving over black ice, a gust of wind forced the vehicle off the road, completely flipping it into a ditch filled with trees.

The SUV totaled, Connor insisted on finding a ride to the airport, booking a last-minute flight to Ohio for $697. Due to delays, there was a strong chance Connor would miss his connection, but he was committed to getting to Oxford.

With just eight minutes to spare, Connor made the second flight, arriving in Ohio at 2:00 a.m.

“My chapter brothers trusted I would lead them as their president,” Connor said. “In my election speech, I said I would do everything in my power to help the chapter succeed, and attending Presidents Academy was the first necessary step I had to take.” Connect with Connor at connor-gifford@uiowa.edu.

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leading in the face of circumstance | spring 2012

“A little

“The reason I do what I do is you.

I will not have you live in a country without freedom.”

Raised by his Vietnam veteran grandfather, Mark Daugherty, East Carolina ’08, has always felt a calling to serve. While in the officer program at East Carolina, he cultivated a love for the greater good — and also fell in love with his Beta Sweetheart, Coston.

She gave birth to their first child, a daughter named Leighton, one month before Mark was set to deploy. Coston was to raise their daughter herself while Mark fought for his country in Afghanistan.

“In a military community, moms stick together. If one of us gets sick, we’re bringing her dinner.”

To Coston, being proud of her husband’s life is worth the endless worrying and 40 weeks away from her husband per year.

“His sacrifice allows me to lovingly raise our daughter and surround her with other children. I didn’t plan on taking this course, but keeping a marriage strong requires trade-offs.”

Residing in Camp Lejeune, N.C., connect with the Daughertys at costondaugherty@yahoo.com.

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THE BETA THETA PI Spring 2012

warrior perseveres.”

David Rae, British Columbia ’00

At 28 weeks, Reegan still wasn’t really “showing.”

When her maternal instincts inspired a checkup, a 45-minute ultrasound turned into a six-hour roller coaster ride; six different specialists performed test after test. Her temperature and blood pressure were about to cause a seizure; Reegan, a first-time mom, was too busy being pregnant to notice anything abnormal.

A different kind of stage | Volunteering for a presentation on behalf of NIKE at a high school college fair, the principal motioned for my attention. “You must go to the hospital, immediately,” he said. Though our son wasn’t due for another three months, life started happening like it wasn’t supposed to.

The emergency room | Reegan was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, a terrifying condition where protein in the womb creates toxicity in the body and launches blood pressure sky high. Not only was our son in critical condition, but Reegan was on the verge of having a stroke. We were supposed to be smiling as Reegan delivered; instead, we were doubting our son would survive.

In sickness and in health | As husband and wife, you have to take care of each other. I had to be the rock that Reegan could lean on. At just 29 weeks and 2.1 pounds, we welcomed Wyatt Daniel Douglas Rae into our lives. At one point he was down to 1.6 pounds, hooked up to more wires and tubes than you can imagine. More than two excruciating months of “wait and see” were needed to determine all implications of our son’s severely premature birth.

Dinners were showing up on our doorstep, text messages and voicemails were flowing in; family, friends and the Beta and Friend of Beta community sustained us. We are forever grateful.

Wyatt | Bearing an Old English name meaning “Little Warrior,” our son fought valiantly at the St. Vincent’s NICU for 72 days. Taking after his mom, he is bold, strong and brave. We miraculously brought him home on Christmas Eve — three weeks earlier than expected. He’s now four months old and a whopping 10.5 pounds.

In fall 2030, he’ll be a college freshman (and hopefully a “gunslinger” from center field), and a promising prospect for recruitment chairmen everywhere.

David Rae, British Columbia ’00, and Reegan Rae, a proud Alpha Phi from Oregon, reside in their “nest” in Portland, Ore. Connect with David at davidjdrae@gmail.com.

Parent Spotlight

Two Decisions, One Vision The Wackerman family’s “refounded” expectations Collegiate loyalties run deep in America, and the Great Lakes State is no exception. With one son at Michigan and the other at State, we dug in our heels for the battle of a lifetime. See, this Big 10 rivalry is rarely transcended — the Wolverines have despised the Spartans since 1898 — but our sons both found the common thread that is even older than Blue against Green . . .

What moms and dads across North America are saying about the Beta experience: I am very proud of my son and support him in all he does. I happen to live nine miles from the local chapter. And, while I am not a Beta, if there is anything I can do to help support and encourage our young leaders, please let me know. — John Lindsay, father of Tyler J. Lindsay, Central Florida ’15 President Houser: Thank you for the nice and informative email! I look forward to reading the monthly eNewsletter and keeping up with the Fraternity’s activities. — Denise Fantozzi, mother of Thomas J. Fantozzi, Cal Poly ’15 Refounding Fathers Brian Wackerman, Michigan ’13, and Matt Wackerman, Michigan State ’15, with their father Tom, sister Colleen and mother Lori

We had already talked to the boys about Greek life. I joined Theta Xi when I was a Wolverine, and our daughter was a dedicated Phi Mu at Central Michigan University.

Despite our positive experiences, neither of the boys was interested in ‘the typical fraternity’ they envisioned; the subject was dropped early on. Our elder son Brian enrolled at Michigan with sights on an engineering degree — not a bid or a badge.

His sophomore year, he found himself drawn to one “not-so-typical fraternity”: one that emphasized intellectual growth and unique opportunities to transform campus life.

Brian announced unexpectedly that he’d accepted a bid to become a Refounding Father, and his brother Matt, who had just started at Michigan State, took note. Funny enough, our younger son found that same fraternity in East Lansing, also recolonizing to become not just a social outlet, but a brotherhood to support him in his pursuit of high standards.

Brian and Matt have always been close, but their desires to become Refounding Fathers were totally unique. The convenient timing of Beta’s recolonization efforts gives our sons a chance to do something special for the Great Lakes’ presence in the larger organization.

They’ve already shown signs of a deeper sense of duty to their newfound brothers and communities at large. We are proud to call them fraternity men, and know their brothers will demand the best of them. — Tom and Lori Wackerman, twackerman@asti-env.com

I’m pleased to learn that my son, Cameron, will be joining the ranks of a fraternity that boasts such an impressive list of individuals who’ve made a difference. I look forward to seeing Cameron’s growth and development in this fraternity. — Bob Polomski, father of Cameron M. Polomski, Clemson ’15 I was a two-term president of my own fraternity while in college and strongly encouraged my son to pledge a fraternity.

Sadly, I was too concerned about alcohol and hazing issues to recommend to him my fraternity at SMU, but I am impressed with the Men of Principle initiative. I look forward to learning more about Beta and sharing my son’s fraternity experience. — ­ Matt Tormollen Father of Evan E. Tormollen, SMU ’15

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27

campus life

installation SMU

After four years of closure, Beta returned to Southern Methodist University in 2009 to make a new name for itself on a Dallas, Texas, campus that is 41% Greek.

The 42 Refounding Fathers had their work cut out for them: reject “frat life” and offer instead a brotherhood based in principled leadership and lifelong friendship.

At the 172nd General Convention in Seattle, Wash., more than a dozen brothers watched and waited, as the fate of their colony lay in the delegates’ hands. The charter was granted, and in addition, the Mustangs took home the Fraternity’s two highest honors for chapter excellence: the John Reily Knox and Francis H. Sisson Awards.

Since then, Gamma Omega has held 100% involvement in campus organizations, claimed first place in homecoming float, school spirit and fall intramurals, and placed among the top in grades for any organization on campus. With 41 spring pledges (left) and a 100-man chapter, Beta is back at SMU. — Chapter President Alex Gupta, SMU ’13, argupta@mail.smu.edu

28

Greek Sing champions now two years running

Eta Delta Chapter father-son basketball game

The house corporation will save $1,500 per year

KENTUCKY Since their 2010 recolonization, Kentucky Betas have placed number one in academics and upheld a 3.0 minimum GPA for new members — voluntarily exceeding the General Fraternity’s 2.7; the university has since followed suit. Every year, they give back to the local community where formal is held, in addition to logging 500 hours of service in Lexington.

DAYTON Dayton Betas will serve five local public schools during the next 10+ years to read to, tutor and play sports and music with the children. Beyond cultivating relationships with University President Curran and Provost Saliba, 10 brothers have attended the Dayton Summer Appalachia Program and lived and worked in solidarity with the Salyersville, Ky., community.

FLORIDA Forty-two solar panels will soon be installed on the roof of the chapter house. Thanks to some crafty undergraduate leadership and a convenient solar rebate program, the $46,000 project will be financed primarily through 1,000 hours of brothers’ work for UF’s office of sustainability over the next five years. Connect with project manager Stuart Block ’13 at stub433@gmail.com.

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

campus life

Robbie Rosenthal, Maryland ’12

Nick with University President David Boren

Nick Coffey, Oklahoma ’13 Chapter-turned-IFC President Nick Coffey works to make OU’s hazing and alcohol seminars more relevant and effective, and incentivize IFC fraternities to interact with multicultural organizations. He helped the chapter recruit and initiate Dr. J. Rufus Fears, maybe the most accomplished and loved professor at Oklahoma. After law school, Nick aims to practice prosecutorial law at the federal level. ncoffey@ou.edu

Cheerleader. Tour guide.

Pledge educator. Tutor.

And that covers maybe onefourth of how Justin Jones, East Carolina ’13 (far right), spends his college days.

Beyond his refounding efforts for the Delta Omega Chapter, Robbie mentors future student leaders through a university leadership program and inspires the student body to self-govern by presiding over the student judiciary. Upon graduation, he will pursue a Masters of Public Policy and then move to Washington, D.C., with dreams of running for political office. robbierosenthal@ gmail.com

Ken (middle) seeking donations for Relay for Life

Ken Clar, John Carroll ’14 Studying management, marketing and entrepreneurship, Ken revamped the chapter’s recruitment philosophy and helped add 21 new members compared to the previous year’s nine. With a desire to start his own company one day, Ken learned that “it’s much more productive to empower your people and inspire them to do the leg work.” kclar14@jcu.edu

Robbie with Senator Lugar at a Beta banquet

undergraduate spotlight justin jones, East Carolina ’13

In the weight room by 6:00 a.m. every weekday, Justin aggressively fills his schedule with chances to serve — and be a good brother. Outside his education classes, a middle school teaching practicum, giving campus tours and cheering on the Pirates, he makes time to grab lunch with brothers and study with pledges late into the night.

“I don’t do this for me,” he says. “I do it for the university and my family and friends. I especially want to make sure young men have a positive male figure in their lives. Living in a military town, a lot of my friends grew up with their fathers fighting in Iraq. I want to be that father figure for kids who need it.” Connect with Justin at bubbajones_54@hotmail.com.

www.betathetapi.org

29

Beta AthleteS

Whether on the court or field, in the water or air, these undergraduate Betas strive to excel in both academics and athletics.

Bryce Pardoe ’14 D. Owen Parker ’13 Gino Pilato ’15 Michael Pitz ’12 Ryan Quinn ’14 Carson Rajcan ’14 Eric Rolfes ’14 Christian Schultz ’15 Luke Sharkey ’13 Tucker Smith ’14 George Sofield ’14 Oliver Terrell ’15 Sam Thomas ’14 Michael Trentalange ’14 Surya Valisetty ’12 Sam Waters ’15 Josh Wheless ’14 Nick White ’15 Robert Winkelman ’14

From all corners of North America, here are Beta’s varsity athletes for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Chapman Jack Dilbeck ’14

Denison Emerson Thacker ’14 Chris Townson ’14

Georgia Tech Scott Schroer ’14

Hanover

CJ Bell, George Washington ’14

Devon Kondaki ’14

Baseball Denison

Ben Schwarz ’13 Tyler Ten Eyck ’13

Austin Bailey ’14

Basketball

Kenyon

Knox

Will Clements ’13

David Jones ’14

Knox

Washington and Lee

Dexter Brown ’12

Kyle Bond ’12 JD Ey ’13 Matt Gaeta ’13 Ethan Harel ’15 Alex Hoey ’15 Javon McDonald ’15 Clay McLean ’15 Pat O’Connor ’15 Will Smith ’12 Larry Whitaker ’14

SMU Charlie Haley ’12 Jason Lehigh ’15

Washington and Lee Jody Davis ’12 Luke Deary ’12 Andrew Lamb ’15 Mike Savas ’13 Pat Smith ’12 Ben Thomas ’12 Westminster Jordan Allen ’14 Brett Houska ’15

Wesleyan Shasha Brown ’13

Cheerleading East Carolina

Westminster Austin Fiegel ’14 Marcelo Giebink ’14 David McDermott ’15

Wittenberg Wade Westbrook ’14

Diving Case Western Reserve Daniel Jacobson ’14

Denison Eric Fischer ’14

Field Hockey British Columbia Cam Munsie ’13

Football British Columbia Anthony Miller ’15

Carnegie Mellon Sean Allen ’14

Justin Jones ’13

Virginia Tech Jackson Sims ’14

Crew Colgate Robert Bickhart, Jr. ’12

Cross Country Chapman Zac Campbell ’13

Knox Matt Brongo ’14

JD Ey, Washington and Lee ’13 30

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

Dylan Watts, Idaho ’14

Ben Bamberger ’14 Cooper Barth ’12 Alex Basinski ’14 Dan Behmke ’12 Dave Birsen ’13 Patrick Blanks ’13 Christopher Blomstedt ’14 Will Clements, Kenyon ’13 Akwasi Brefo ’14 Mason Dumas ’15 Vince Brown ’13 Zachary Erra-Hernandez ’14 Jason Buckman ’15 Ross Farquharson ’14 Austin Buit ’13 Zach Gallup ’12 Nathan Cheek ’14 Chris Garcia ’12 Nima Cheshmeh-Shahi ’13 Kevin Greisel ’15 Jason Choi ’15 Dallas Hartman ’13 Rajeev Chorghade ’14 David Hohn ’15 Nick Ciesielski ’14 Kyle Irish ’13 Bryan Connelly ’13 Ray Johnson ’12 Alex Copeland ’14 Ryan Jok ’14 Shane Copelin ’15 Rob Kalkstein ’14 Peter Crampton ’15 Nick Karabin ’13 Alexander D’Angelo ’15 Tim Kikta ’14 Colin Lang ’14 Ross Lapkowicz ’12 Anthony Lorubbio ’13 Alexander Lum ’13 Joe Manga ’12 Craig Matturro ’14 Mike McDermott ’15 Conor McGuire ’15 Dylan Munoz ’15 Eric Myers ’15 Jake Nardone ’13 Philip Nicolaides ’13 Connor O’Doherty ’15 Kyle Owens ’14

Indiana Mitch Ewald ’13 Erich Toth ’15

Kenyon Cam Ash ’13 Derek Barbato ’13 Patrick Brady ’14 Stuart Brown ’14 Will Clements ’13 Scott Forsythe ’12 Luke Ivey ’12 Andrew Mauer ’14 Brendan McGoldrick ’14 Sam McQuistion ’14 Dan Muller ’14 Mike Papagni ’12 Alex Traugutt ’12 Daniel Waters ’14 Brett Williams ’13

Knox Steve Bora ’14 Adam Brooking ’14 Cale Dahm ’12 Quentin Gittemeier ’13 Will Grumke ’13 Mike Hendrick ’13 Patrick McGinty ’13 Neal Moon ’14 Alex Nadolna ’14 Dan Page ’12 Brian Paul ’13 Lloyd Scott ’13 Nathan Williams ’13 Nate Wilson ’13 Mike Youkhana ’13

BETA ATHLETES

Oklahoma State Andrew Smith ’12

Pennsylvania Ryan Allen ’13 Daniel Davis ’15 Peter Hobson ’13 Mitchell King ’15 Nick Longtin ’15 Ryan O’Malley ’15 Daniel Ritt ’15 Joshua Scott ’15

Washington and Lee Nick Merwin ’15

Westminster Kevin Adam ’15 Brett Bauer ’14

Eric Fischer, Denison ’14 Ryan Price ’14 Ross Richardson ’15 Richard Sterns ’14 Kelvin Williams, Jr. ’12

GOLF DePauw Nate Smith ’12

Kenyon Tim Benner ’13

Washington and Lee Wilson Anthony ’12 Will Hatfield ’13

Westminster Ryan Hanlen ’13 Gavin Magruder ’12 Alex Norath ’12

Scott Birke ’15 Brett Cabriele ’13 Kevin Cambell ’15 Theodore Citrin ’14 J. Grant Covington ’12 Robert Cunningham ’15 Aidan Daniell ’14 Joe Del Visco ’12 James Dieterich ’13 John Froats ’12 Zachary Gaitz ’14 Jeffrey Giocondi ’13 Jon Guzman ’13 Brendan Hanley ’13 Richard Imperatore ’13 Lex Johnson ’13 Ian Johnson ’13 Max Landow ’12 Graham MacNab ’14 Matt Meade ’12 Dan Mena ’13 David Murphy ’15 Richard Ortiz ’15 Christopher Pao ’13 Joseph Porcelli ’14 Michael Robinson ’13 Max Rosenman ’13 Nate Ryan ’15 Justin Schick ’15 Mark Simmons ’13 Arthur Stacey ’13 Sam Stanton ’14 Ian Vazquez ’14 Augustin Vita ’13 Chris Walsh ’14

RUGBY Lawrence Austin ’12 Clayton Bell ’12 Steven Hu ’13 Derek Knight ’15

Cincinnati

Joseph Burton ’12 Alex Roe ’14 Mick Stapleton ’15 Michael Thomas ’15

Robby Merk ’15

Georgia Kole Wernowsky ’15

Hanover

Kenyon Dan Muller ’14

Wesleyan Elliot Albert ’14 Nicholas Albrecht ’13

Kenyon

Joe Collins ’14

Brett Williams ’13

Truman State

Knox

SOCCER Colgate

SQUASH

Jared Hoffman ’13 Jacob Ohlhausen ’15

George C. McFarland III ’13

George Washington

Washington and Lee

Matt Brongo ’14 Bobby Mueller ’14 Joe Puntoriero ’13

Denison Zach McKelvey ’13

CJ Bell ’14 Jose Calderon ’12

DePauw

SWIMMING

Stephen Bucholz ’13 Derek O’Grady ’12 Christopher Taljan ’14 Mark Weiss ’14

Denison

Mike Freeman ’12 Sam Rispaud ’15 Taylor Shamshiri ’15 Hayden White ’13

Kevin Wynn ’13

John Carroll Drew Kostiuk ’15

Knox Mike Gasparro ’13

Pennsylvania Michael DeSantis ’15

Washington and Lee Toby D’Ambola ’15 Robert Gerbo ’14 Colton Klein ’15 Al Organ ’15 Ben Petitto ’12 John Stalle ’13 Justin TenBrook ’14 Parker Wolfinger ’14

Alex Bermudez ’13

Southern California Matt McCormick ’12

Washington in St. Louis Washington and Lee

Eric Fischer ’14

Jeffrey Hirsh ’14

DePauw Jack Burgeson ’14 Charles Curts ’14 Brendan Flores ’12 Matt Gleason ’14 Matt Haeske ’14 Joe Hessburg ’14 Matt Kukurugya ’13 Johnny Montgomery ’12 Nathan Mullins ’13 Andrew Nash ’13 Robert Spichiger ’13 Cameron Wiethoff ’14

Wesleyan Rex Bernstein ’15

TRACK AND FIELD Carnegie Mellon

Westminster Austin Fiegel ’14 Marcelo Giebink ’14 David McDermott ’15

Denison

Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Jon Brachna ’14 Stephen Czujko ’13

Lewis Prior ’13

DePauw

Knox

Luke Miller ’14 Stuart Newstat ’14 Dillon Raidt ’14 Christopher Milano ’14

Taylor Burmeister ’14

Steve Colliau ’13 JP Sauer ’12 Arthur Stier ’15

Nathan Cheek ’14 Zachary Erra-Hernandez ’14 Mike McDermott ’15 Gino Pilato ’15

East Carolina

Wittenberg TENNIS

South Carolina

Idaho

Wesleyan

Colgate

Dominic Schmidt ’13 Dylan Watts ’14

Zachary Dixon ’12

John Beam, Jr. ’13

John Carroll John Jackson ’13

WRESTLING Rey Cardenas ’14 Alex Faulkner ’12 Jason LaFavor ’12 Will Milleville ’14 Sergio Ulloa ’12 Alejandro Varela ’13 Kin Vong ’13

Truman State Daniel Karlskin ’14 Colton Schmitz ’13

Alex Bermudez, South Carolina ’13

Jonathan Martin ’13

Georgia Tech

Pierce Guderski ’15

DePauw

Wes Bramer ’15 John Davis ’14 Jamie Lewis ’14

California, Berkeley

Devon Kondaki ’14

Chapman

Westminster

Hamlet Fort ’15 Mike O’Connor ’14

British Columbia

Daniel Barrett ’13 Kenny Bruzzone ’14 Patrick Coleman ’14 Andre Coquillard ’14 Lyall Davenport ’13 Tian De Nysschen ’14 Grant Hyjer ’12 Travis Moscone ’15 Mark “Bo” Richter ’12 Charlie Smith ’13 Sam Welch ’14

LACROSSE

Washington and Lee

Georgia Hayes Dever ’13 William Farrell ’14 Austin West ’14

SMU James Robison ’14

Mitch Ewald, Indiana ’13, after kicking the game-winning field goal against Purdue

www.betathetapi.org

31

In Pr au og gu ra ral m

because There’s No Place Like HOme . . .

Housing Summit

173rd General Convention Westin O’Hare, Chicago, Ill. August 2-5, 2012

New this year as part of the 173rd General Convention, the Fraternity is pleased to introduce the Housing Summit for all house corporation members. This track will provide leaders of Beta’s physical facilities the opportunity to learn about student housing trends while receiving resources and training on leading and operating effective house corporations. Participants will learn about Beta’s new Cornerstone Housing Program — Beta’s signature clearing house for house corporation support — and they will have the opportunity to build relationships with other house corporation members and experts in the field of fraternity housing. For more information, contact Phil Fernandez at phil.fernandez@betathetapi.org or 800.800.BETA.

The Beta House

Rugby Road Saga The story of the Beta house at the University of Virginia Old Dominion. Mother of Presidents. The Commonwealth of Virginia.

Whichever name you prefer, historic Virginia hosts one of the oldest universities and Beta chapters in North America.

In fact, it was the first-ever professor of architecture at the University of Virginia who designed the Virginia Beta house in 1926.

The Omicron Chapter occupied that house for more than 40 years . . . until fire and scandal struck Rugby Road.

Beta’s rivals and next-door neighbors Delta Upsilon lost their house to an unexplained fire over the summer of 1969. Contrary to UVA legend, “there were no flaming arrows,” according to one prominent Beta alum; DU simply purchased the property after Beta (unrelatedly) lost its charter in 1972. Beta Bridge, an integral and revered university feature on Rugby Road, was usurped. Luckily, nothing lasts forever . . .

180 Rugby Road today

In 2009, two years after recolonization efforts attracted 55 men to rebuild Beta at UVA, the house corporation led by Tim Akers ’82 and Garrett Smith ’84 negotiated a deal with the DU alumni to repurchase the original Beta house — and magically earn DU a brand new house, debt free.

180 Rugby Road dated 1927-1933 featuring “Beta,” the university’s first mascot. Welcomed at school dances and lectures alike, he was a treasured member of the student body. Beta attended a Plato course at Cabell Hall so frequently, his name was called in the roll and he would bark out his presence.

“My goodness. What’s next?

Turning around the U.S. economy? Global warming? That’s a very impressive deal you’ve negotiated. Well done.”

— Chris Bierly ’86

Akers, Smith and the house corporation faced a complex choice: to do a “band-aid type renovation,” or undertake a complete modernization. The team went all-in, stripping 180 Rugby “down to the timbers . . . rewiring, replumbing and in some aspects reconfiguring the building to accommodate the needs of a larger, 21st century fraternity.”

Thanks to diligent work, Beta Theta Pi has positioned itself securely on a well-known university thoroughfare, and has regained the guardianship of her dear Beta Bridge.

— Geoff Lewis, UCLA ’09, geoff.lewis@ betathetapi.org

Cornerstone | Housing Program www.betathetapi.org

33

THE BETA HOUSE

If These Walls Could Talk The acquisition of a lifetime at Wisconsin-Oshkosh At the turn of the 20th century, Oshkosh, Wis., was a city of industry. Home to the state’s third largest university, the “Sawdust Capital of the World” was growing. But just before the turn, in 1893, the now-historic Algoma District added one more structure. Though the three-story house became Alpha Xi Delta’s, the story of 535 Algoma Boulevard was far from over . . .

Beta was formally established at UWO in 1994, but before the Beta chapter was born, Omega Tau Phi was the name of choice. The nine men comprising this local fraternity sought Beta colony status in 1991. With the General Convention’s blessing, the men headed north to Lawrence University, eager to sign their names to the Gamma Pi Chapter roll.

The Founding Fathers returned to Oshkosh and invested more than a decade building their chapter. In 2005, the old ΑΞ∆ house at 535 Algoma became the Wisconsin-Oshkosh Beta house. On December 15, 2011, the house corporation purchased the property outright, what Chapter President Josh Wittkowske ’13 calls “their all-time greatest accomplishment.”

“The key people who made this possible are too many to fairly do them justice, but we certainly would not be here today without the leadership and generosity of Bob Schaupp, Lawrence ’51.”

— House Corporation President B. Drew Thornsberry ’08

By The Numbers

$160,500 purchase price

34

3,474 square feet

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

6,098 lot size

7

bedrooms

In a quiet Greek community where few fraternities own their house, the Zeta Zeta Chapter is positioned to grow immensely. “We have many plans,” Wittkowske says, whose 10-year vision includes a new porch, roof, floors, appliances, windows, paint and furniture.

With an unwavering commitment and a uniquely spirited brand of brotherhood, Zeta Zeta has staked its claim. Beta Theta Pi is setting up shop at 535 Algoma for generations. — Geoff Lewis, UCLA ’09, geoff.lewis@betathetapi.org

3

kitchens, bathrooms and guiding principles

1

Knox Room, strictly for awards

CORNERSTONE | HOUSING PROGRAM

THE BETA HOUSE

More Than a Renovation “No more Brady Bunch!” The 1964 A-frame house had never been remodeled. The Beta house was a public eyesore, and Ole Miss Greek life waits for no chapter. When one mother wondered “why on earth her son would join that fraternity and live in that house,” the house corporation knew it was time to act.

A campaign was launched and Mississippi Betas responded worldwide.

“The whole front of the house came off,” according to House Corporation President Randy Boyles ’82. Having raised more than $100,000, the façade now sports a raised, ADA-compliant landing with classic Greek columns supporting a freshly pitched roof.

“This has altered our reputation on campus,” argues Austin Jones ’14, Beta Beta’s current chapter president.

“It changes the game in recruitment, and we’re constantly being complimented by parents, alumni and both the men and women of our Greek community.”

As Chapter Counselor Wylie Richards ’69 argues, “This is about more than just a renovation. This is about our future members and their right to pursue maximum success.

When men join an organization based on solid principles and discipline — and have a physical space to live those ideals — the benefits are truly countless.”

The original roof’s steep angle had to be adjusted

What of the Future?

“I can’t help thinking of the eager bunch of freshmen who pledged Beta in the fall of 1948. We had no house, not even a regular place to meet, but the eight of us were sure we were the best pledge class on the Mountain.” Not long ago, Gamma Chi at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn., had just two men, but on November 5, 2011, beloved Founding Father W. Brown Patterson ’52 unveiled a historic new renovation to an eager reunion crowd.

The “ultra-modern” house of 1959 was no longer so by 2008. When the university invited the chapter to negotiate for ownership, passionate brothers united and executed. With $30,000 raised of a $100,000 goal, and by utilizing the Designated Educational Area Grant Program — allowing tax-deductible contributions to flow through the Beta Foundation in Oxford and back to the house corporation — the team will offset some construction and remodeling costs while adding approximately 40% more educational space to the house.

Upon completion in November 2012, Sewanee’s first energy-efficient fraternity house will have triple its original occupancy, a brand new chapter room and the 800-square-foot W. Brown Patterson, Jr. Library. Also with its largest pledge class since 1970, Gamma Chi could be King of the Mountain for decades.

CORNERSTONE | HOUSING PROGRAM

Project rendering by local watercolorist Bob Askew

“What of the future? I am convinced this library can be for the common good — a place for serious, reflective conversation, not far from the coffee pot.”

— W. Brown Patterson ’52

www.betathetapi.org

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Mystic Shrine

in loving memory Honor your brothers, friends and loved ones with a memorial gift to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation. www.betathetapi.org/gift

Beloit

Idaho

Michigan

Byrne, Melvin C. ’50, Dec. 16 C

Eldridge, Hugh W. ’36, Oct. 26 Fowler, George M. ’58, Nov. 13 Scharf, Dr. George C. Jr. ’58, Nov. 30

Ackles, Burlin H. Jr. ’34, Sept. 24 Conrath, Fred E. ’42, Sept. 14 Wieting, Harry N. III ’50, Jan. 1 C

Illinois

Michigan State Trumbull, George T. Jr. ’52, Oct. 30 C

Bednar, Charles M. ’51, Nov. 23 C

Boyle, Frances A. ’44, Dec. 31 C Eberspacher. E. Chris III ’71, Feb. 10 Henebry, Dr. William F. ’54, Jan. 29 Vance, E. Eugene (Gene) ’47, Feb. 16 C

Cincinnati

Indiana

California, Berkeley Chase, Maurice G. ’43, Nov. 20

California, Los Angeles Jones, Kyle C. ’10, Feb. 13

Case

Moore, George C. ’48, Oct. 31 C Reesey, W.C. Jr. ’53, Jan. 18 C Wright, Kenneth A. ’51, March 19 C

Campbell, Thomas H. Jr. ’48, Dec. 14 Dils, Gregory K. ’71, Feb. 9

Colgate

Schienbein, Allen G. ’52, Dec. 23 C

Joyce, Thomas S. ’43, Dec. 21 C Sheirich, Richard M. ’49, Dec. 11

Colorado Gibbons, Joel W. III ’60, Nov. 20 C Kemper, William B. ’58, Dec. 5

Columbia Fabso, Charles J. ’46, Jan. 17

Cornell Riordan, George N. ’55, May 27 C Trask, Frederick W. ’52, May 11

Dartmouth Evans, Carlton F. ’48, Jan. 26 C

Denison

Johns Hopkins Berzins, Janis Jr. ’63, Nov. 28 C

Kansas State Bemis, George W. ’57, Jan. 16 C Fortune, Cedric B. ’62, Nov. 14 C Parker, James H. ’59, Oct. 22 C Pence, Royce O. Jr. ’49, Nov. 26 C

Knox Lawrence

Denver

Lehigh Cowan, Gilbert H. Jr. ’58, Dec. 21 C Heiney, John W. ’34, Nov. 6 C Reid, Walter W. III ’38, Nov. 29 C

Louisville

Duke

Maine

Crawford, Frederick R. ’55, Oct. 16 C

Florida Dawkins, Paul R. ’53, Jan. 15 C

GMI-EMI Stephenson, Frank ’74, Jan. 11

THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

Birt, James G. ’44, Jan. 22 C Bohling, Dr. Walter H. Jr. ’38, Dec. 5 C James, Emory F. Jr. ’41, Jan. 18 C Morris, Benjamin B. ’49, Dec. 6 C

Nebraska Aksamit, Dr. Gary L. ’60, Nov. 17 Pickett, Richard F. ’56, Jan. 3 Williams, George W. Jr. (Bill) ’43, Dec. 6 C

North Carolina Collier, Christopher M. ’85, Feb. 8 Reid, Walter B. III ’65, Nov. 29 Skoglund, Palmer L. Jr. ’61, Nov. 23

Ziech, Douglas L. ’66, Jan. 18 C

Goetcheus, Dr. John S. ’60, Nov. 19 C Harbottle, Charles P. ’39, Dec.1 C

Missouri

Anderson, Brian G. ’13, Feb. 20 Brett, William H. III ’46, Jan. 25

Hoyt, John C. ’50, Nov. 5

DuVall, Kenneth K. Jr. (Tim) ’52, Aug. 23 C Tourangeau, Donald R. ’50, Dec. 10 C

DePauw

Bjeerken, Maurice R. ’51, Feb. 8 C Greeley, H. Clark ’53, Feb. 17 C Merriman, Calvin A. ’51, Dec. 18 C Ratcliff, David E. ’54, Nov. 18

MIT

Kansas

Price, Richard R. (Dick) ’52, Jan. 27 C Meyer, Elwood H. ’42, Dec. 12 C Wilson, Charles E. Jr. (Gene) ’43, Oct. 26 C

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Iowa State

Minnesota

North Dakota Kronson, Paul T. ’72, July 4 Norman, Larry A. ’66, Jan. 18 Paulson, Herbert H. ’45, Nov. 7 C

Northwestern Flack, John G. ’51, Jan. 30 C

Ohio

Anderson, James D. ’93, July 2

Everett, James M. ’49, May 18, 2010

Gero, Charles E. Jr. ’62, Jan. 9 C Norton, Omar P. ’55, Oct. 10 C

Miami Merriman, Howard O. ’55, Dec. 25 C

Ohio State Wilson, Keith ’42, Feb. 11 C

Oklahoma Aughtry, William H. ’52, Feb. 7 C Dinkins. Merle L. ’46, Feb. 12 C Drummond, Thomas E., ’67, Feb. 10 C

Visit www.betathetapi.org/shrine to read the full-length obituaries.

Mystic Shrine

Miller, John Keith ’50, Jan. 22 C Smith, Dr. Gary D. ’78, Nov. 5 Synar, Alan E. ’77, Nov. 5 Warner, William S. Jr. (Bill) ’76, Dec. 9 C

Oklahoma State Roderick, Myron W. ’57, Dec. 28

Oregon Bittner, Jules F. ’45, Feb. 7 C Wasser, Edward E. ’67, Dec. 22 C

Oregon State Cowan, Bruce W. ’50, Feb. 20 Kelley, Gerald E. ’59, Nov. 22 C Kent, Robert A. ’48, Jan. 17 C

Penn State Johnson, Peter C. ’48, Nov. 8 C Livengood, William L. ’57, Nov. 24

Pennsylvania Crawford, George F. ’48, Sept. 17 C

Puget Sound Hall, Edward L. (Ted) ’82, Dec. 13

Purdue Simmons, John R. ’54, June 24

Rutgers

Washington & Jefferson Alexander, James E. ’35, Jan. 13

Washington and Lee Doll, Robert A. ’74, Dec. 8 Stevenson, Webb E. ’53, Dec. 30 C

Wesleyan Barr, Kenneth M. ’59, Dec. 24 Green, David H. ’42, Aug. 30 Keables, John M. ’52, Oct. 5 Owen, Herbert W. ’37, Aug. 27 Stout, Robert E. ’60, Aug. 11, 2010

West Virginia Crooks, Edwin W. ’41, Nov. 15 C LaLance, Dr. Robert C. Jr. ’62, Jan. 6 Marin, Daniel O. ’65, Aug. 10, 2010 Wilson, Robert S. ’41, Jan. 30 C

Western Reserve Dankulie, John J. ’64, Nov. 6 Walther, Ralph W. ’50, July 29

Westminster Ebersole, Richard D. ’46, Jan. 18 C Opel, John R. ’48, Nov. 3

Wichita State Clince, Charles M. Jr. ’72, Feb. 16 C

Wolf, Donald G. ’55, Nov. 13 C

Sewanee

Willamette Carlson, E. Herbert ’51, Jan. 2

Barker, Judge Joseph V. (Joey) ’70, Dec 3 C

South Dakota Elliott, C. Nicholas (Nick) ’50, Dec 13 North, William M. Jr. ’47, May 23 C Pottratz, Calvin R. ’49, Nov. 26 C

Southern California Taylor, Darrach (Rick) G. ’55, Feb. 8 C

St. Lawrence

Wisconsin Irgens, Oliver K. ’50, Nov. 24

Wittenberg Crawford, Thomas M. ’61, Jan. 18

Yale Holloway, Pat S. ’52, Feb. 10 C Leavenworth, David E. M.D. ’44, Feb. 5 C Odell, George H. ’64, Oct. 14

Brian G. Anderson MIT ’13 Brian passed away unexpectedly on February 20, at the age of 21. A junior management major with plans to graduate in 2013, Brian was active on MIT’s wrestling team and was also an Eagle Scout. A committed member of the Fraternity’s Beta Upsilon Chapter at MIT, he was a participant of the Wooden Institute and served the chapter as risk manager, house manager and intramural chairman. In 2009, Brian graduated from Redwood Valley High School, where he was a National Merit Scholar. Brian is survived by his loving parents, Gregory and Cecilia, two brothers, an extended family and loyal MIT fraternity brothers.

Young, Richard M. ’40, Nov. 19 C

Stevens Contino, Conrad W. ’60, Nov. 16 Fieser, George W. ’50, May 9

Texas Lee, Robert B. ’52, Oct. 26 C McMullen, James A. III ’54, Nov. 19 C

Utah Benbow, David W. ’62, June 10, 2010 C Dye, R. Scott ’40, Jan. 17 C Pratt, Elliott L. ’44, Nov. 14 C

Virginia Hume, Joseph S. Jr. ’72, Jan. 26

Wabash Freeman, Richard M. ’43, Jan. 17 C Kimbriel, William D. ’56, Nov. 24 C

Washington Baugh, Robert H. ’49, Jan. 14 C Ferguson, Edward R. Jr. ’52, Feb. 18 C Rubidge, William H. ’58, Dec. 12 C Westall, Richard J. ’55, Dec. 19

James A. McMullen, III C Texas ’54 James passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 19, at the age of 82. Advisory Council member and former Vice President of the Board of Trustees, McMullen was along-time Convention veteran and was recognized for attending more Conventions than any living member — attending his 49th one in August. Upon his completion of undergraduate and law studies at the University of Texas, McMullen went on to serve as a captain in the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps, and practiced law for a total of 67 years in Fort Worth, Texas. McMullen is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Louise, and his children and grandchildren. The family requests donations be made in his memory to establish the James A. McMullen III Scholarship with the Beta Theta Pi Foundation.

Flags indicate those who have served in the United States or Canadian armed forces.

www.betathetapi.org

37

Beta in the arts

He’s a Beta?

Betas in the Arts L.E. (Erv) Johnson, Idaho ’53

As Betas, we know “man without intellect would be little better than the brute,” and that “the power of the mind lifted humanity from barbarism and darkness to civilization and light.”

Man has admired the classical excellence of Greek civilization for more than 2,000 years. As ancient man ascended from order into chaos, physical achievement was always matched by cultural excellence in disciplines like painting, sculpture, music and drama. If only Socrates could have been a filmmaker . . .

Considering the Greeks’ emphasis on artistic expression, Betas in the Arts was the obvious choice for the third volume of this trilogy. Produced

by L. Erv Johnson, Idaho ’53, editor emeritus of The Beta Theta Pi magazine, in collaboration with the Beta Leadership Fund, this volume follows Beta Statesmen (2010) and Beta Heroes (2011).

As you read these pages, it will not go unnoticed that from time to time you will ponder quietly — “Hmmm, I didn’t know he was a Beta” — as you discover a well-known, if not famous, painter, writer, musician or poet. Such a remarkable legend of talent has rarely been assembled under a common umbrella. Connect with the lifelong journalist at ervandginger@yahoo.com.

George Peppard, Jr. Purdue ’52 As a leading man on television and in motion pictures, George Peppard earned international renown. Perhaps best remembered for playing opposite Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, he also starred in The Blue Max, The Carpetbaggers, House of Cards and many other films. In television, he played the title role in the Banacek series as Hannibal, the leader of The A-Team. The father of three, he lived with his wife Laura until his death in 1994.

David Martin Yale ’65 A CBS correspondent for virtually his entire career, David Martin appears regularly on 60 Minutes. Previously, he was a war correspondent in Vietnam for United Press International. He reported on the Gulf, Iraq and Afghanistan wars and has been a CBS News national security correspondent since 1993.

Previously, since 1983, he had reported for CBS on the U.S. State Department and Pentagon. Martin covered the fall of Saigon in 1965 and has received several Emmys, most recently in 2010.

Stephen Sondheim Williams ’50

Betas in the Arts will be officially released at the the 173rd

General Convention

August 2-5, in Chicago. www.betathetapi.org/convention

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THE BETA THETA PI SPRING 2012

Described as “the man who revolutionized musical theater,” Stephen Sondheim is the only Beta to have received all three of the top honors in entertainment: the Oscar, Emmy and Tony awards.

Leonard Bernstein, famous orchestra conductor and composer, gave Sondheim his first big break: writing the lyrics for West Side Story. At the 49th Grammy Awards in 2007, Sondheim was honored as one of only three recipients of the Trustees Award, a distinction award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.

A LASTING MOMENT

“I participate in the programs these dollars help provide. I know my gift will promote the values of mutual assistance, intellectual growth, trust, responsible conduct and integrity that I found and have cherished since I walked into the Beta house in 1980.”

Finding a way to stay connected Since graduating from Colgate in 1984, I’ve always tried staying connected to Beta. At first, it was effortless, living in a New York City apartment with three pledge brothers (and plenty of other Betas throughout the city). With regular trips back to Colgate for homecomings and reunions, we continuously remained plugged into the Fraternity. But as with all things, change occurs; the demands of career and family divert attention from the people and things so easy for us to take for granted.

When I found myself living in central New York, I again found a way to sustain the connection. When I accepted the role of district chief, my network instantly broadened to include Beta Delta at Cornell and Beta Zeta at St. Lawrence. These newfound friends both young and old gave me a new appreciation for our timeless values. And now, in my own life, these values are holding a new significance . . .

Both my young son and nephew are growing up fast, and they’re already planning on rich college experiences. That’s why every year I support the Beta Leadership Fund, and further, have made provision for it in my will: to contribute to the Beta Theta Pi that our sons and nephews might become a part of. So join me, and let’s make Beta a Fraternity that all our sons will want to join. — Bruce S. Fein, Colgate ’84, bfein@twcny.rr.com

After graduating from Colgate with a B.A. in political science and international relations, Bruce attended law school at Fordham University, obtaining his J.D. in 1987. He’s held numerous public service roles in New York State including assistant district attorney in both Syracuse and Cortland, and since 2009, United States administrative law judge for the Social Security Administration’s Office of Disability Adjudication and Review. He is also an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Judge Advocate General Corps.

Bruce resides in Cortland, N.Y., with his wife Julie Campbell, a founding sister of Gamma Phi Beta at Colgate and a former Gamma Phi Beta Foundation Board member.

Their son David keeps everyone busy with 6th grade homework, drum lessons and Boy Scout activities.

Beta Theta Pi Foundation & Administrative Office Brennan Hall PO Box 6277 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056 www.betathetapi.org

EVERYONE

E V E RY Y E A R ANYAMOUNT

This year’s unprecedented investment by the Beta Leadership Fund in Beta’s 120 chapters, 8,100 undergraduates and 1,200 volunteers is $1 million.

Please do your part by May 31, 2012, to help the Fraternity fully fund this year’s programs and services.

www.betathetapi.org/gift