DUARTE NAMED COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER
REMEMBERING KYLE ARNOLD Due to debilitating depression, suicide claimed the life of Kyle Arnold, Case Western Reserve ’09, in January 2014. But his Beta experience and the outpouring of support from his chapter brothers always left a big impression on his family — especially his mother, Tammy. As they approached his 30th birthday on March 31, she recalled his trips to Oxford each semester for Initiation. “I could see it in his face and hear it in his voice,” she said. “Being a Beta meant a lot to him.” Maybe that’s why it’s not surprising when she rallied his Beta brothers to make symbolic $30 gifts to the Beta Leadership Fund in his memory, and join the family at 7:00 a.m. on his birthday morning to enjoy his favorite: chocolate-covered long johns. “He loved chocolate.”
HALL OF FAMERS
OMICRON’S GILLIAM HONORED BY UVA
The 1982 Willamette men’s soccer team was inducted into the university’s Sports Hall of Fame late last fall. Finishing with a 15-4 record, including 11-consecutive wins and the NAIA District II championship, the team included four brothers of the Gamma Sigma Chapter: John Hitchman ’84, George Wells ’85, Brian Clearman ’86, and Alan VonDerMehden ’86.
On Founder’s Day, April 13, officials and friends gathered to plant a Tupelo Gum Tree next to the Rotunda in honor of University Protocol and History Officer Sandy Gilliam, Virginia ’55. Recognized for his 42 years of service and contributions to UVA, Sandy was praised by President Sullivan and then presented with a ceremonial watering can from the Seven Society. Gilliam family lineage at UVA dates back to 1829.
21 SUMMER 2017 | BETA.ORG
Certainly, Kyle’s mental health and passing cannot be forgotten. Fortunately, his memory and the Fraternity that brought him so much joy live on in the lives of his Beta brothers and that of good ol’ Mom. (Photo: Kyle’s brother, sister and mother are joined by his chapter at the memorial service.)
ALUMNI NEWS
International business leader Andres Duarte, Ohio Wesleyan ’65, served as his alma mater’s commencement speaker during its 173rd ceremonies on May 13. Dubbed by the chapter during his college days as “the most outstanding goof off,” Duarte’s recognition by Queen Elizabeth II as an “Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire” underscores the notion that one can’t always judge a book by its cover. aduarte@dvaccs.com