The Beta Theta Pi Magazine (Winter 2009)

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PERCENTAGE Thomas Hansen, Washington ’59

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USING BETA LESSONS EVERY DAY “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, the responsibility to initiate trust falls on those with more maturity.” ~ John Wooden, Purdue ’32

Robert Tigner Chapter Counselor, Truman State Zeta Xi Chapter

Professional:

Associate Professor and Chairman, Department of Psychology – Truman State University

Alma Maters:

Hanover College Ohio State University

Degrees:

B.A. in Psychology M.A. and PH.D. in Cognitive/ Experimental Psychology

Hobbies:

Woodworking, XBOX360

Much of the success in my career can be traced back to one important decision Beta Theta Pi made more than a decade ago: to embrace and welcome non-initiated volunteers. This policy of inclusiveness has allowed me to participate in Beta’s fantastic summer leadership programs, and has led me to new and dear friends all over North America. There is something very special and infectious about that legendary Beta spirit.

I have been an avid supporter of Beta Theta Pi for 13 years, volunteering as the chapter counselor for Truman State University, and as a facilitator in Beta’s outstanding leadership programs. While I hope my support has benefited the Fraternity in some way, it is absolutely clear that this association has benefitted me. The experience and wisdom I have gained through working with Beta has helped my career and made me a better parent and person. Since Beta can do all these things for me, I have no doubt in its ability to foster growth in the undergraduate membership. When I tell prospective new

members that Beta can improve every facet of their collegiate experience, I really mean it.

I appreciate all that Beta offers because it is so directly applicable to my job as a professor and department chairman. It is only a bit of an exaggeration to say that all I need to know I learned from Beta. I find myself using Beta lessons every day: mutual aid and assistance, respect for leadership and the willingness to lead when called upon, and striving to make myself worthy of the respect and friendship of my dear Beta friends.

Although I would need a ladder to dunk a basketball, Coach John Wooden, Purdue ’32 has become an absolute hero of mine.

If Beta hadn’t handed me one of Wooden’s books, I never would have learned his simple and profound advice: be more concerned with your character than your reputation, the responsibility to initiate trust falls on those with more maturity, the first and most important step in friendship is being a friend, etc. Thanks, Coach. And thank you Beta!

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/V /Vol. 136/No. 3

[Winter Contents]

Watch the

Beta Theta Pi web site . . .

ta e b . w :/ww

http

a new day is dawning on www.betathetapi.org!

16 cover story

Tom Hansen: A Winning Percentage RENEW YOUR SUBSCRIPTION

At the end of 26 years of service, Thomas Hansen, Washington ’59 tells how his fraternal experience aided in his success as the PAC 10 commissioner and in establishing the Bowl Championship Series.

departments The average Beta will receive 216 issues of this magazine over 54 years. At 60 cents per issue, it will cost about $130 to produce and send all of your magazines. That is more than four times the amount of your $30 lifetime subscription!

Will you make a voluntary contribution to keep your magazine coming?

Visit www.betathetapi.org/ support today. Thank you!

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From the Editor

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News & Notes

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Books by Betas

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Destinations

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Campus Life

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Sports Roundup

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Mystic Shrine

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A Principled Life

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A Lasting Moment

Time is Money

Fraternity Happenings Gall: Lakota War Chief

features to Stay in Shape 8 How Trim the fat, cut the pounds and

look great with these three steps.

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Stay Away from Mirrors

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An Unselfish Desire

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Chapter Visit: Stevens

Ski & Snowboard Chapter Reports Fall Athletes

In Loving Memory Become the Example Pride and Inspiration

Dr. William Fox highlights his new role as president of St. Lawrence University.

The story of Luke Karner’s new measurement for success.

The story of the Sigma Chapter and how the brothers are giving back to their community.

THE BETA THETA PI

The Offical Magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. The oldest continuously published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded December 15, 1872,

by Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869. Member, Fraternity Communications Association

Winter 2009

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[From the Editor] Time is Money Charlie Chaplin’s well-known character, The Little Tramp, is easily recognizable although he has not been seen on film since he wandered down the seemingly endless highway at the conclusion of the 1936 film, Modern Times, which is often considered the last of the silent films.

The persona makes one wonder if the character was a vagrant who had nothing yet attempted to adopt the characteristics of a distinguished and well-mannered gentleman, or simply a gentleman who had, in the end, lost everything and become a vagrant. Chaplin, Illustration by Roger Warrick who grew up in poverty, once remarked, “The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury.”

Despite rising unemployment, decreasing home values, the roller coaster ride otherwise known as the Stock Market, and 401k values that have become shadows of their former selves, many of us are indeed blessed.

A recent survey of readers of this publication indicates that some 49% enjoy an annual household income greater than $150,000. (According to the Census Bureau, the median household income in the United States for 2007 was $50,233.)

Giving back to our communities, alma maters and the associations and institutions that have helped us to become the people we are today is a significant part of living a principled life. Those who have enjoyed life’s blessings have a duty . . . indeed, an obligation . . . to give of their treasure, time and talents to make a difference in this world. Especially in challenging times.

In a review of the book Chaplin: A Life (2008), Martin Sieff of The Washington Times offers, “Chaplin was not just ‘big’, he was gigantic.

In 1915, he burst onto a war-torn world bringing it the gift of comedy, laughter and relief while it was tearing itself apart through World War I. Over the next 25 years, through the Great Depression and the rise of Hitler, he stayed on the job. He was bigger than anybody. It is doubtful any individual has ever given more entertainment, pleasure and relief to so many human beings when they needed it the most.”

When they needed it the most . . . As Chaplin once noted, “To help a friend in need is easy, but to give him your time is not always opportune.”

The trials and tribulations of life do not fit neatly into strategic plans, Outlook calendars or daily task lists. We face them as they come, and in doing so, we help one another and make the world just a little better.

We make a difference.

“We want to help one another,” suggested Chaplin. “Human beings are like that; we want to live by each other’s happiness, not by each other’s misery.”

Time, after all, is the currency of kindness. Spend it wisely. — T. Olver 4

The Beta Theta Pi

Beta Theta Pi Fraternity Founded 1839, Miami University

Board of Trustees General Secretary Charles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87 President P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63 General Treasurer Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86 Vice Presidents Scott J. Allen, Minnesota ’95 James R. Curtis, Wisconsin ’86 W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 Paul B. Swartz, Kansas State ’64 Joseph M. Troncale, Alabama ’63 Beta Theta Pi Foundation Board of Directors Carroll R. Black, Wabash ’66 Michael J. Dubes, Iowa State ’66 Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82 Garland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52 Douglas G. Houser, Willamette ’57 S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73 Jeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96 Lynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 Thomas H. McCasland Jr., Oklahoma ’56 Charles O. McCormick III, Indiana ’72 H. Kent Mergler, Cincinnati ’63 Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86 Jeffrey N. Newton, Miami ’77 Richard C. Spangler III, North Carolina ’71 Editor Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98 Associate Editor Alexander S. Hammel, Florida ’08 Associate Director of Communications Robert T. Umstadter, San Jose State ’05 Graphic Designer/Production Assistant Sarah Shepherd Contributors Phyllis Bowie, Steven Dealph, Kevin M. George, Jay Langhammer and Dr. Robert Tigner Editors Emeritus Erv Johnson, APR, Idaho ’53 Robert H. Kurz, Miami ’58 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, Summer and Fall for $30 one-time pre-paid subscription. Periodical 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, 2009. Produced in the USA.

Deadlines Summer 2009 ......................................................May 15 Fall 2009 ......................................................... August 15 Winter 2010 .............................................. November 15 Spring 2010 .................................................February 15

Foundation and Administration Office Brennan Hall 5134 Bonham Road P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, Ohio 45056 513-523-7591 beta@betathetapi.org www.betathetapi.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Beta Theta Pi P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, OH 45056

[News & Notes] KRAFT F U S S E L L recieves Anson Award Director of Leadership Development Sue Kraft Fussell (left) received the Jack L. Anson Award from the Association of Fraternity Advisors during its 2008 Association Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado, December 6.

The Anson Award, created in 1982, is one of the Association’s highest honors to recognize an individual not in the field of higher education who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the fraternity/ sorority community beyond their respective organization, and who has contributed to fraternal life through donations of time and energy.

2009

LEADERSHIP S U M M I T

Beta Theta Pi hosted its fifth annual leadership conference for key volunteers, January 9-10. The Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit provides an opportunity for all district chiefs, assistant district chiefs and regional directors to meet annually in Oxford to focus on the future of Beta Theta Pi. Attendees focused on campus trends, adult learning and working effectively with college students.

PRESIDENTS

A C A D E M Y The fifth annual Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy was held, January 16-18, in Oxford.

The event brought chapter and colony presidents to the Fraternity’s birthplace for three days of personal and leadership development. Chapter presidents adopted skills and techniques they could use to enhance their chapters.

Sue Kraft Fussell, a member of Delta Gamma, is a former executive director of AFA. A resident of Fishers, Indiana, Kraft Fussell is a wellknown educator, partner and advocate for the interfraternal community.

WACHS NAMED

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The prestigious Francis Wayland Shepardson award was bestowed posthumously upon former General Treasurer James S. Wachs, Cincinnati ’55, at a General Fraternity Alumni Appreciation Dinner held in Cincinnati, Ohio, November 8.

As Beta’s official legal counsel to the administrative secretary and Board of Trustees for more than 30 years, Wachs provided advice on all legal and tax matters, facilitating the development of today’s chapter services, risk management and fund-raising activities of the General Fraternity and Foundation. After his death, his estate gift prompted The Beta Theta Pi to feature him as a member of The Bridge Builder Society in the A Lasting Moment feature of the magazine.

Wachs got a great deal of satisfaction from his many charitable endeavors.

In addition to his own personal philanthropy, he was very active on many foundation boards, including Cincinnati Bar Association, Cincinnati Rotary, University of Cincinnati, Emery Memorial, Jack J. Smith, Louise Hannaford and Beta Theta Pi. Wachs was a long-time member of the Cincinnati Commonwealth and Commercial Club, the Banker’s Club, the United Way de Tocqueville Society and Ryland Lakes Country Club, where he was a past president.

Winter 2009

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[Books by Betas] Additional Beta Books 52 Wows: A Relationship Guide for Men R. Dean Akers, Florida ’74

A story describing how the relationships you have with people can enhance your daily life and those around you as well.

Hardcover. 99 pages. US$29.95 AuthorHouse. 2008

A Treasury of Truth and Wisdom: Principles to Build a Life of Significance Frederick K. Slicker, Kansas ’66

A book that explains time-tested truths and provides small nuggets of wisdom to live a fulfilling life.

Paperback. 176 pages. US$11.69 Victory Graphics and Media. 2007

Gall: Lakota War Chief Robert W. Larson, Denver ’50

Hunkpapa warrior Gall was a great Lakota chief who, along with Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse, resisted efforts by the U.S. government to annex the Black Hills. It was Gall, enraged by the slaughter of his family, who led the charge across Medicine Tail Ford to attack Custer’s main forces on the other side of the Little Bighorn.

Robert Larson now sorts through contrasting views of Gall, to determine the real character of this legendary Sioux.

This first-ever scholarly biography also focuses on the actions Gall took during his final years on the reservation, unraveling his last 14 years to better understand his previous 40.

Hardcover. 238 pages. US$16.47 University of Oklahoma Press: Norman. 2007

Breathing Life Through Dance

Aubrey Stephens, Idaho ’56 A compilation of pictures taking the reader on a visual journey into the beauty, power and grace of dance.

Hardcover. 128 pages. US$49.95 NASCI, LLC. 2007

Libya: From Colony to Independence

Ronald Bruce St. John, Knox ’65 A story that skillfully navigates the nation’s history, author Ronald Bruce St. John explores Libya’s struggle to establish its political and economic identity.

Paperback. 291 pages. US$19.95 Oneworld Publications. 2008

Submit a Book for Review

Have you recently published a book that you would like featured in “Books by Betas?” Send a signed copy of the book, a brief description of the work and a brief biography to: Alex Hammel, Associate Editor; 5134 Bonham Road, Oxford, OH 45056

Beta Theta Pi benefits when you buy from amazon.com!

Log on to http://astore.amazon.com/thbethpi-20 for the online store.

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Trials and Triumphs

Thomas R. Cox, Oregon State ’55 This story is about the centennial history of a small Presbyterian church located in a heavily Mormon area.

Paperback. 221 pages. US$17.95 Idaho State University Press. 2007

[Destinations] ski & snowboard

According to the 2009 Farmer’s Almanac, Almanac, this winter looks to be much colder than normal, with an above average snowfall gracing the peaks of mountains and the bottoms of hillsides. The snowiest periods are expected to come during late February. So instead of cursing Old Man Winter and hibernating for the next three months, round up the family, pack the car and head toward the mountains for some of the best ski options available this side of the Swiss Alps.

Even if everyone in your group is not an enthusiast when it comes to the slopes, these next few destinations have something for everyone. Whether you enjoy lethal attacks with the double black diamonds, just easing slowly into the bunny slopes or exploring the wilderness, all of these places have something for fanatics and first-timers alike.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing your snowbound destination is variety.

Everett Potter, contributing editor for SKI magazine said in an interview with USA TODAY’s Shawn Sell that it is easy for non-skiers to coexist with the pros.

The most important thing he suggests is choosing a well-rounded ski town. “You have to pick very carefully because it’s so easy for the non-skier to get claustrophobic or bored,” says Potter. These venues offer some of the best skiing around while still catering to new comers.

Whether you have deep cravings for the slopes or just the hot chocolate, each of these places can offer fun for all types of skiers. Just remember to suit up, stay warm, watch out for trees and prepare to take on one of the most exhilarating sports of all time.

 b e g i n n e r s luck

If you do not ski at the same level of Olympic Gold Medalist Picabo Street, then Montana is a great starting out point.

Lone Mountain Ranch near Big Sky Mountain is an excellent place to get accustomed to the slopes. Primarily a cross-country ski resort, Lone Mountain Ranch has many miles of groomed trails and is within easy reach of downhill

skiing at Big Sky Mountain. The area’s signature ski runs make this a spot that is fun for everyone. There is a free shuttle bus that runs back and forth to the slopes several times a day. The area is more quiet and does not have the distractions that can accompany some of the more wellknown resorts.

 thrill seekers

For the more extreme and experienced skiers, the Grand Tetons have much to offer. More specifically is the breathtaking Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The terrain boasts stunning scenery and has great snow for skiing. Since many people often pass over this hidden gem for better-known areas in Colorado or Utah, Jackson Hole has superior resorts with small crowds and short lift lines. More than half of the area is structured for the advanced skier, which makes this spot one of the most grueling and challenging to push their ski skills to the max. The area is well suited for cross-country skiing or snowmobiling. There is also Yellowstone National Park to entertain everyone after a rough day on the slopes.

 family fun

A more family friendly location would have to be gorgeous Park City, Utah. This 12-square-mile ski town is full of quaint shops and restaurants with delicious cuisine, as well as home to the Sundance Institute, which hosts the annual Sundance Film Festival. If feeling up to the intense challenge, skiers can attempt a bobsled run down a winding path. Park City is also a training ground for ski jumpers.

Many people simply enjoy watching the phenomenon of human flight as they watch jumpers practice and soar through the air.

 shopping

If venturing out onto the wilderness is not an option and you would like to have the feel of a skier without the hurt, then beautiful Aspen, Colorado, is the perfect place. One of the more storied locations, the town of Aspen is stunning.

The architecture is magnificent as it houses some of the most exquisite restaurants between Chicago and the Pacific coast. This town also features the highest of high end shopping of any ski towns with names such as Louis Vuitton, Prada and Christian Dior all proudly displayed, along with many day spas to work out any kinks from a previous day’s workout. If you are looking to put more of a dent in the wallet rather than the skis, then Aspen is the place to do it, and with classic style. – A. Hammel

Winter 2009

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HOW TO STAY IN

SHAPE

Each new year, people everywhere vow to make changes or improvements to their daily lives by setting resolutions for themselves. One of the most popular resolutions made is to get in shape for the new year. These goals

“Many people I have encountered through medicine simply do not comprehend that through proper diet and exercise we can live long and healthy lives.” ~ Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr., Missouri ’43

People equate “fat-free” with “healthy” so they automatically purchase the product, but they fail to realize the amount of sugars or sodium in it.

can consist of losing 30 pounds, being able to swim one mile or eating healthier foods to help stay in shape. But why is it that each year people fail to uphold their New Year’s resolution to get in shape? What is it that keeps them from succeeding or falling short of this goal? More importantly, how can they actually achieve the goal?

The idea of exercise has been prevalent since the B.C. era. Hippocrates noted that “if we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise, we would have found the safest way to health.” The problem is that too few people understand the actual reasoning of why exercise is important.

For many, getting or staying in shape is close to impossible because they are not educated on the facts. In today’s world, people are far too “busy” to take the time to learn what nutritional facts actually mean or what they are pertaining to. The fact that you exercises six times a week will ultimately be cancelled out if you are not eating correctly. Now this is not a groundbreaking discovery, however, people often are consuming foods they believe to be healthy when in reality they might be more detrimental than they think.

One example of consumer sabotage is what people see when they shop for groceries. When you are trying to eat healthy and purchase foods that will compliment your exercise workouts, you might buy products that are associated

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The Beta Theta Pi

with positive words. People equate “fatfree” with “healthy” so they automatically purchase the product, but they fail to realize the amount of sugars or sodium in it. The consumer becomes distracted by the words “fat-free” and fails to read the rest of the ingredients. Pictures also tend to trick consumers. When people see the image of a red heart or a ribbon or vegetables they automatically associate that product as being healthy.

Is it?

There are also certain ailments that can be directly attributed to poor diet and lack of exercise. According to the American Medical Association: Family Medical Guide, diabetes, back pain, Gallstones, heart disease, high blood pressure and Osteoarthritis are just a few diseases and conditions that can develop due to poor health habits. Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr., Missouri ’43, says that more severe conditions could have been prevented in his patients if their diets were different.

So, how can you commit to exercising and getting in shape this new year? It is simple and can be broken down into three separate categories.

Hidden Calories People also need to be wary of hidden calories that can be found in what looks to be a healthy food. Similar to the consumer sabotage, you need to fully understand what you are really ordering when trying to make the best decision for your diet. When people dine out for dinner, they will opt to take the side salad instead of fries, or a fruit smoothie instead of the ice cream shake. But is this really the healthiest decision? It can be, but only if you are looking out for the hidden calories.

A salad will often include cheeses and salted nuts on top along with a very fatty dressing that can contain more than 1,000 calories alone. The same holds true for smoothies. Depending on what is selected, some smoothies can contain many more calories and sugars than people think. According to the American Medical Association: Family Medical Guide, one 12 ounce smoothie can contain up to 300 calories due to sugars and other ingredients. To put this into perspective, a small fry at McDonalds has only 250 calories. One way to make sure you know what you are getting is by going online and doing some quick research. Most chain restaurants will have the nutritional information on their websites and fast food establishments will have them posted. There are also websites that will help you track your caloric intake, such as the USDA’s MyPyramid Tracker and My CalStep.

How to Fight Sudden Snack Attacks Spontaneous snacking is a huge contributor to overeating whether you are in the office or walking on campus.

When working on deadlines, projects or studying for an upcoming class, people tend to snack on whatever happens to be around them at the time. Mindless eating or eating when bored will certainly steer you into calorie trouble. One way to combat this is to purchase individual snack packs or 100 calorie packs. This automatically will set a limit to the amount of food the individual is consuming and keep you from overeating.

Another area where people tend to get into trouble is late night snacks. Everyone has been there before when they have an “uncontrollable” urge for a slice of chocolate cake. When you eat late at night, you are normally eating less nutritious options and are severely increasing your caloric intake. Sometimes the portions can be similar to that of an entire meal, which defeats the purpose of the snack. One way to get around this is to make smart decisions. Instead of taking that slice of pizza or ice cream, go for the piece of fruit or even a glass of water.

Depending on what is selected, some smoothies can contain many more calories and sugars than people think.

Exercise is the Key Most people do not realize it, but there are easy exercise opportunities everywhere. For instance, instead of riding the elevator, climb the stairs. It may sound insignificant, but those few extra flights not only help burn calories, but will also begin to tone the legs and help build endurance. This strengthens the heart and builds lung capacity. Set some time aside each day, at least 20 minutes, to commit to some type of physical activity. Joining a gym or health and fitness center is a great way to be held accountable and staying on top of the commitment to getting in shape.

Proper diet and good exercise can change your entire outlook on life. Even though eating right and exercising can be difficult and require more persistence and energy than you may like, proper nutrition will not only give more energy, but will also aid in a more healthy and balanced lifestyle. And those are two goals well worth pursuing this year!

– A. Hammel

Winter 2009

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MIRRORS

Stay Away from MIRRORS

“An ability to communicate, not just speak, effectively is critical. Also, except for shaving, stay away from mirrors.

They’re more dangerous than the adulation of crowds.”

— Dr. William L. Fox, St. Lawrence ’75

Reflection

People are given opportunities every day to make a difference, whether it is in their own lives or the lives of those around them. The right person has the ability to make a positive impact and make a noticeable change in the community where they reside. Dr. William L. Fox, St. Lawrence ’75, has been making a difference since his undergraduate years and was recently appointed as the 18th president of St. Lawrence University, where he hopes, once again, to make a difference.

Fox has always possessed a sense of humility that has kept him grounded everyday. He says that being balanced and fair-minded are some of the greatest benchmarks a leader can aspire to live by. He strongly grasps that leadership is more than just a position; it is taking action to rival results and achieve success. “An ability to communicate, not just speak, effectively is critical.

Also, except for shaving, stay away from mirrors. They’re more dangerous than the adulation of crowds,” Fox stated. He offers that humility will best serve young people in all of their future endeavors.

Fox’s path to the presidency of his alma mater began indirectly with Beta Theta Pi. Not through membership in the Fraternity, but through his church, where former General Fraternity President Seth R. Brooks, St. Lawrence ’22, was his minister. Brooks was the Fox family minister in Washington, DC, 10

The Beta Theta Pi

which is where the two kindled a beautiful friendship that ultimately led Fox to his college chioce and placement at the University. Although there was a large difference in their ages, the wisdom of the elder Brooks influenced the values of the young Fox. It was at his church where Fox learned to discover the good in every encounter, especially with “the least of these.”

Through his church, and with the encouragement of Brooks, Fox pursued a career in the ministry. “There was no better preparation for my life’s work than spending the early years of my career in the ministry,” Fox said. The ministry, which was the first of three vocations he occupied, was the most formative. And yet, he also traces his success there to his college years in Beta Theta PI. As a result of being active in the Chapter, Fox learned to live in a diverse, intelligent and fast-paced environment, which created an opportunity for lifelong friendships.

He says that a week never passes without hearing from a St. Lawrence Beta. Fox took on leadership positions in the Chapter, giving him invaluable handson experience toward becoming an effective listener and persuader. “It also taught me the importance of following through as a leader, which is the only coin that buys respect, and also to learn the importance of standing up and speaking up when your shaky knees preferred a less than brave response,” Fox offered. Beta Theta Pi instilled and reinforced

Fox and his wife waving to the crowds while riding in the parade precession (above). Congratulating a new graduate (left).

lasting principles in Fox that allowed him to make a difference not only in his chapter, but the community as well.

Restoration

Before being appointed president at St. Lawrence, Fox was president at Culver-Stockton College, where he demonstrated leadership in successfully bringing his campus out of a major crisis. Within the first days of his presidency, a destructive tornado struck the campus, and turned the College community upside down. However, Fox made a difference in the community by showing people how their own strength and courage was enough to repair the damage and to restore the community’s sense of hope. He achieved these impressive feats by focusing on the values of respect and mutual assistance. Fox does an impeccable job of not only understanding the values of the Fraternity, but implementing them into his daily life. He lives the ritual daily and takes great pride in doing so.

When asked what initial goals Fox would set for himself, he responds that developing friendships and establishing chemistry with people is how he will begin. “The goal of getting to know people in the community, what they do at the University and what their lives are like, is the peg upon which all the institutional weights and measures will hang,” Fox said. This is Fox’s platform for success and making a difference. He will just to do his best to understand the faculty and students he works with everyday. “I’ll be a student myself, learning all over again who the St. Lawrence students and professors are in this new century,” Fox added.

On July 1, Bill Fox will become the president of St. Lawrence University. He will begin his work with the simplest of assumptions and just be himself. He will be starting with many challenges, but with one advantage. He knows himself. Not only as a minister, professor or college president, but as a calm and humble Bill Fox . . . a life-long student always trying to make a difference. – A. Hammel

Winter 2009

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Luke Karner, Knox ’09

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The Beta Theta Pi

an unselfish Desire “There were not things that could necessarily be noticed by everyone, but knowing what kind of transformations that the children had and knowing they had a part in their change was really the best part.”

— Luke Karner, Knox ’09

Success can often be a complicated and confusing word. Many people opt to measure personal success with the traditional benchmarks society has today deemed “norms.” For a businessman, this may be the car he drives. For a student, this probably refers to a five-letter grading scale that can be a friend or foe come semester’s end.

But what about the people who choose to measure success on a far less tangible scale? What if success was measured by the number of times a person laughs in a day or the amount of determination put into a task. For some, it is. For Luke Karner, Knox ’09, success was a product of realizing patience, compassion and optimism, through a rare opportunity.

Karner spent his summer volunteering at a New Hampshire summer program called “Wediko.”

Wediko, by appearances, is like any other summer camp; however, it has an extensive staff of social workers, psychiatrists and other professionals with expertise in behavior disorders. Wediko is a therapeutic program. The children participating have been diagnosed with serious emotional and behavioral disorders ranging from aspergers and bipolar, to such environmental issues as post traumatic stress and serious aggression. The program groups children by development and academic ability, which allowed Karner to teach and experience a wide range of personalities and ages.

He averaged 16 hours per day, seven days a week for two months. “Every activity and part of the day is planned out and very predictable as many of the children lack that kind of stability in their lives at home,” Karner said. Although draining at times,

Karner reinforced the idea that being “successful” was not necessarily about achieving a tangible set of ideals each day.

Many of the children Karner interacted with were violent and abusive with both their words and bodies. “The whole idea is that these children are not What if . . . really angry at you, but really do not have the social skills to deal success was with their emotions effectively,” measured by the Karner said. Once having a better number of times a understanding of this, Karner approached each day with a person laughs in a new sense of enthusiasm and a day or the amount different idea of what “success” of determination would entail.

put into a task.

Every day, he began to see improvements in the children and noticed that victories were happening everywhere he turned. Students who would leave class in a “fit of rage” were eventually completing assignments and participating in activities.

Determination and desire had become a key factor in how these children were approaching each day, much like Karner himself.

Karner possesses a blind faith in not only these children, but himself as well. He has an unyielding trust in the value of persistent patience and the ability to see the “big picture.” He believes in these children and knows he can have a positive effect on each of their lives. He adopted a sense of humor for his sanity and a veil of optimism for his motivation. It is these inspiring qualities that Karner developed that have made him a successful man. – A. Hammel

Winter 2009

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CHAPTER VISIT

STEVENS If we are known for one thing on campus, it is community service. We try to participate in service many times a semester.

Patience and Fortitude If one were to walk to the east end of campus at Stevens Institute of Technology they would face the Manhattan skyline.

The skyline is said to be one of the most historical and storied in the world.

Manhattan consists of man-made mountains that define the city by the rest of civilization.

The Sigma Chapter at Stevens also has great history. William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1878/Columbia 1881, attended the College and took on several roles within the Chapter. The mayor of Hoboken, N.J., resided in the Chapter house, and experienced an untimely death there.

Although the Chapter’s current members appreciate the history of past influences, the past does not define the Chapter in the same way the skyscrapers do Manhattan.

The brothers take pride in how the Chapter has evolved, and live by the ritual of Beta Theta Pi. Approximately 80 percent of the Chapter is enrolled in an engineering program.

The brothers go into detail about how 14

The Beta Theta Pi

they incorporate the idea of cultivation of the intellect into the entire chapter. “Many brothers are forced to adopt this value because they have to constantly study the material from classes. But, it goes further than that when brothers read material that is not assigned for class . . . they read and study because they want to,” senior Matt Reihl, Stevens ’09 said.

Consisting of 32 men, they understand that they do not need to have 100-plus members to drive results and be successful not only within the General Fraternity but, more importantly, within their community. “If we are known for one thing on campus, it is community service. We try to participate in service many times a semester, which is not always easy when you are taking 24 credits of engineering classes,” James Roarty, Stevens ’09, offered. Participating in different events is a great way for the brothers to stay connected and relax after intense weeks of studying for classes.

The projects range from simple tasks such as making sandwiches for the local homeless shelter to participating in Relay For Life, a 24-hour event that helps raise cancer awareness. Some brothers participated in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade by assisting the production crew in inflating the balloons and escorting them to Herald Square. This past year, the entire

Chapter helped support the 2008 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Central Park.

squirrels with a BB gun. A woman nearby phoned the police saying that she saw a man on the roof with a rifle.

The brothers are currently working on securing donations for house renovations.

The structure was built in the mid-1800s, and major repairs are desperately needed.

Since the house is not in its grandest state, each brother is assigned a daily task that he must complete. Tasks consist of cleaning the mirrors, vacuuming and cleaning up the common area. “We take pride in our house and we do everything within our capabilities to spruce it up and make it presentable for visitors,” Reihl added.

No charges were filed against the member or the Chapter. However, the members thought they should address the issue. Taking immediate action, the Chapter’s executive board developed a list of sanctions and punishments that the members would be implementing. The list included items such as the house becoming alcohol free, social probation, every member attending gun and safety seminars and every brother being involved in at least one school event per week. The Chapter has never taken things lightly.

On the surface, the Stevens Chapter is an ideal one. Its members make a conscious effort to live by the ritual everyday and remain focused on living a principled life.

They do not falter as a result of some of the more common stereotypes that creep into fraternities.

“I would like to say that we are a perfect chapter and can do no wrong, but everyone makes mistakes. Every organization has a hiccup once in a while,” Roarty suggested.

The members discuss an offense they just experienced. As a result of not having a sustainable roof on the house, squirrels began to burrow into the attic. Frustrated, a brother climbed onto the roof to shoot the

Outside of the New York Public Library stand two lion statues, one named Patience, the other Fortitude. “Patience and fortitude is what we need now. Although not as extreme, these were the ideals that the country needed most during The Great Depression, and what we need now,” Reihl noted.

On the surface it would seem as though the Stevens Chapter is an ideal one. Its members make a conscious effort to live each day by the ritual and remain focused on living a principled life.

Patience and fortitude. These words now define the Chapter. The brothers must continue to set the standard. Although it may have been a minor incident, each brother takes responsibility for the Chapter’s actions, no matter the final result.

– A. Hammel Winter 2009

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A WINNING PERCENTAGE

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hildren have lofty goals of becoming the next great basketball player or football superstar, playing in a packed arena or sold-out stadium. They envision what it would feel like to hit the wall first and win a gold medal for their country in swimming. Many will fall short of these astronomical expectations and put their dreams away for another day. But for some, these wild imaginations will turn into possibilities.

And for a few, they will turn into realities.

In June 2009, Thomas Hansen, Washington ’59, will retire as the PAC 10 commissioner. Hansen has played a unique role in each of the situations listed above as the commissioner of one of the most dominant conferences in collegiate sports. After 26 years of service, he will be remembered as one of the most successful commissioners in history. In the 1996-97 season, he led the Conference to a historic 14 NCAA championships, a feat that has yet to be rivaled. Although he has experienced much success, Hansen has continued to adopt a sense of humility and gratitude for all his endeavors.

If looking for a commissioner who only travels by private jets, engages in dirty politics to get his teams ahead and bends the rules for his coaches and presidents, Hansen’s not your guy. Instead he actively defends his athletes and what he knows is right. Hansen served on two major NCAA groups, the Gender Equity Task Force and the Division I Task Force on Restructuring, two of the most prominent in the NCAA.

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The commissioner states that Beta Theta Pi aided in his development as a young man and its values and mission have continued to serve him while working within the Conference.

“I felt I had really achieved something when I became a Beta. It gave me the feeling that I could achieve something significant in my career.” Hansen said that many of the values and beliefs that Beta Theta Pi represents are apparent within the PAC-10 Conference.

He prides himself on the universities giving their student-athletes the proper education, practices and tools they need to succeed in life beyond the competition fields, a quality that is mirrored in Beta Theta Pi. Bowl Championship Series One of his greatest accomplishments was his role in establishing the Bowl Championship Series, otherwise known as the BCS. Since almost every game played during the college football season will have a dramatic impact on end results, there is so much attention given to particular games. There is much at stake and much attention given to each of the teams participating in a bowl. A total of 68 NCAA Division I teams are allowed to participate in the bowl games at the end of each season.

“The BCS has been an excellent promotional element that is now part of the college football season,” Hansen said. Although the BCS has had a dramatic impact on the football seasons, there is no other collegiate sport that has the same excitement due to an outside contributing factor, such as the BCS. Hansen defends his stance and is proud that the system has created even more enthusiasm and camaraderie for the sport, even amidst recent BCS controversies.

More importantly though, Hansen understands the value of not only the students athletes, but what the game can do for them. He equates Beta Theta Pi to many sports teams, each brother representing a player with all of them working toward a common goal. That

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goal is to be the best team or fraternity, and to be an example.

The commissioner appreciates healthy rivalries, but he tries to remember that these are young people representing institutions of higher learning. He insists that fans maintain a sense of humility and hold themselves to a higher standard, values that are shared with the Fraternity.

Economic Woes Although the economy has yet to have a direct impact on the Pacific 10

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to buy season tickets to the sporting events? If not, the schools lose out on parking fees, concession stand dollars and fan paraphernalia, all of which contribute to the athletic programs and the institutions as a whole.

The commissioner continues to shed light on success and how it is measured.

Whether it be by a winning percentage or a graduation rate of his student athletes. Regardless of what or whom people are compared to, Hansen acknowledges that each brother must

“I felt like I had really achieved something when I became a Beta.

It gave me the feeling that I could achieve something significant in my career.”

Above: Hansen announcing the National Champions, the University of Florida Gators.

Left: Hansen presents The Coaches Trophy, given to the National Championship winner in football.

Conference, Hansen believes that the PAC-10 will begin to feel the crunch of today’s financial losses. “Inevitably, sponsorships will be harder to come by and giving the donations will be harder to achieve. I don’t think we have really seen that yet,” Hansen said. A fact is that many of the schools in the conference are state schools, which means they are funded by the governments of those states. The majority of funding comes from private and public sponsors, which is why outside vendors and sponsors are so important to the PAC-10.

Hansen refers to the economy’s troubles as a ripple effect. Will people continue

do his part to incorporate Beta Theta Pi’s values into their everyday lives.

“We must continue to learn . . . and I think Beta embraces that value. I am impressed when I read the magazine to learn how many people are, late in life, doing important things,” Hansen said.

So regardless if brothers get the chance to compete for a major NCAA conference in athletics or they deem ourselves worthy of that gold medal, Commissioner Hansen makes it clear that when joining Beta Theta Pi, not only will they get to compete with the best and the brightest, but they will win big. No matter what the outcome.

– A. Hammel

Winter 2009

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You’ll declare your support for Beta Theta Pi every time you present your card. Plus, every time you make a purchase using your card, a contribution is made to Beta Theta Pi — at no additional cost to you.

Save the Date

Portland Area Alumni Appreciation Dinner April 25, 2009 ~ 6:00 p.m.

Waverly Country Club ~ Portland, Oregon

Hosted by the Board of Trustees and General Fraternity President Dr. P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63

REQUEST

Featuring:  Awarding (posthumously) of the Fraternity’s highest recognition, The Oxford Cup, to Nike founder William J. Bowerman, Oregon ’33  The General Secretary’s “State of the Fraternity” address  Recognition of current and long-time Beta alumni volunteers  Recognition of all Fraternal 50s and Fraternal 25s in attendance  Celebration of the 10-year anniversary of the Men of Principle initiative

Call toll-free

Details and invitations forthcoming to all area alumni in early March 2009.

Our members deserve the very best. That is why we are pleased to present the Beta Theta Pi Platinum Plus® Mastercard® credit card with WorldPoints® rewards from Bank of America. This No-Annual-Fee card delivers premium service, unsurpassed rewards, a money-saving Introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and the attention to security our members expect.

REWARD YOURSELF

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The Beta Theta Pi

yours today.

1.866.438.6262 Use Priority Code FACQUN

10 YEAR

ANNIVERSARY

Men of Principle B E T A

T H E T A

P I

[Campus Life]

Get Involved, Stay Involved

Many chapters are breaking records and setting the standards on campus for principled leadership. No matter how well the brothers are doing, however, every chapter and colony needs good mentors! It is important to support our undergraduate members in their pursuit of excellence. To get involved with a chapter or colony near you, contact Director of Volunteer Development Jason Waggoner (jason.waggoner@betathetapi.org) today!

Omitted chapters did not submit a report as of 12/17/08. The original deadline was November 1.

Alabama (∆Θ)

The Delta Theta Chapter has chosen Lakeshore Foundation of Birmingham to be the beneficiary of its philanthropy project. Lakeshore Foundation is an organization that benefits wheelchair athletes across the State. The event this year is going to be a New Orleans’ style brunch serving Eggs Benedict and Bananas Foster before our game against Mississippi State. Our Chapter chose the Lakeshore Foundation because last year we donated $6,000 to their efforts and think we can surpass that amount this year. Our Chapter is teamed up with the newest sorority on campus, Alpha Phi, in an effort to establish them as a strong new addition to our campus and to achieve our goal of surpassing last year’s donation.

The philanthropy is being held in memory of James “Moose” Moorer, a Delta Theta alumnus who recently passed away.

— Stanford Wood ’10, sdwood@bama. ua.edu

Arizona (∆Β)

The Delta Beta Chapter had a great fall semester starting with homecoming. The week-long tradition turned out to be a huge success in welcoming back alumni and friends from all over the country. A great honor was to host chapter alumni and the alumnus of the year for The University of Arizona, Texas’s Lt. Governor David Dewhurst. With the active chapter and the help of 37 pledges, the week’s events turned out to be a success. The next plan is to focus on celebrating Delta Beta’s 50 years of existence in the spring. — Mario Hernandez ’09, marioh@email.arizona.edu

Bethany (Ψ)

The Psi Chapter started off well this year. When the spring grades were released, the chapter had a 3.52 GPA. It was above the all men’s, fraternities, women and sororities marks. The feat was obtained with only 15 men. In addition to its grade point average, four men on the football team were honored as academic All-Americans.

Thomas Kisner and Ronald Ermlick were nominated as well as pledges Matt Swartling and Bob Rovanik. — Brandon Curtis ’09, bcurtis@bethanywv.edu

British Columbia (ΓΟ)

Not only did the Chapter strengthen its presence on campus, it also strengthened its involvement in the local community. The

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Gamma Omicron Chapter has teamed up with Kappa Kappa Gamma in the Academic Reading Buddies program at the local elementary school, University Hill Elementary. Furthermore, our hardworking chapter is looking forward to holding its annual philanthropy event, Beta Strongman. The event is a competition involving the Greek system and the UBC student body where all funds are donated to the Canadian Cancer Society. Gamma Omicron has the mentality of going above and beyond what is expected. — David Cotterall ’10, david_cotterall@yahoo.com

Cal Poly (Ε∆)

Epsilon Delta had a strong start to the school year recruiting 12 new members and effectively implementing a new positive pledge program. The new program focuses on covering the history and lore of Beta Theta Pi while focusing on many of the key values the Fraternity promotes. It is broken down week by week with each new member having a pledge goal along with a certain lore they need to learn. For example, one week the pledges attended their professor’s office hours along with weekly study hours to fulfill their goal for cultivation of the intellect. The new program also contains a revamped pledge father agenda that has been formulated to help the new members become more acclimated with the Chapter, University and social scene. We look forward to a great year of growth and improvement with many younger members taking on leadership roles. — Zach Cohen ’11, zcohen@calpoly.edu

California, Irvine (∆Σ)

The Delta Sigma Chapter is proud to announce that its very own Matt Villasenor has been elected as IFC president. Previously, Villasenor held the position of fraternity relations for IFC and made great strides during his term to represent the Beta name. We are very proud of his accomplishment, which demonstrates our commanding presence at UC Irvine as we grow into a model chapter. This could not have come at a better time as the Delta Sigma Chapter just received its charter this past summer in Dallas. As we move on to the new year, we are pushing more and more brothers to get involved in other extracurricular activities to create a wellknown presence of Beta Theta Pi and recruit more quality gentlemen. — Patrick Ngo ’09, ngo.patrick@yahoo.com

California, Los Angeles (ΓΝ)

The UCLA Chapter recruited 25 outstanding young men for the Upsilon pledge class. This is the largest pledge class in more than a decade for Gamma Nu and the third largest fall pledge class among UCLA’s 19 IFC fraternities. Fortyone active brothers recruited 25 new members, as a true testament to the will power and drive of Gamma Nu’s motivated and enthusiastic members. These 25 men include valedictorians, Mock Trial and Debate Team officers, Beta legacies, Student Government officers, UCLA club soccer and rugby athletes, Eagle Scouts and other campus leaders who exemplify what it means to be a leader and a man of principle. Gamma Nu is on the rise thanks to the teamwork amongst our active members and new advisory team. We at the Chateau look forward to raising and redefining the standard of what a fraternity can be at UCLA. For more information, visit our website at www.betabruins.com.

— Michael Casey ’11, mikecasey@ucla.edu

Carnegie Mellon (ΓΙ)

Gamma Iota has continued along a path of excellence this past spring semester.

Not content with only athletic victories, Bowl wins and All-American selections, the brothers of Gamma Iota focused intensely on recruitment and academics. This focus was rewarded as Gamma Iota recently honored to have both the largest brotherhood of any fraternity as well as the highest overall grade point average of all fraternities. These events can be attributed to a greater contribution from all brothers at Gamma Iota toward the pledge process. Recognizing several areas of focus, a large part of this development was due to restructuring and reinforcing the Chapter pledge education policy, allowing new members to thrive more quickly during their first few semesters in college. — Nicholas Russell ’10, nhr@andrew.cmu.edu

Case Western Reserve (ΛΚ−Β)

The Lambda Kappa-Beta Chapter has moved back into its house on Murray Hill Road this fall after a great year.

The brothers are working hard to make it a home for the Chapter and a welcome environment for students as well as alumni.

Last spring, the Chapter was awarded the Agnar Pytte Cup, which is given to the most outstanding fraternity on campus.

Lambda Kappa-Beta continues to excel in Greek life standards, which recognizes excellence in academic performance, new

member programs, personal development, risk management, chapter management, community service and alumni relations.

After receiving first place last year, we have been awarded the first perfect standards score of 100 in recent campus history, marking Beta’s third consecutive year as first among all fraternities. The Lambda Kappa-Beta Chapter has also been first in philanthropy hours for the past two years and first in grades for the past three semesters. — Daniel Kaufman ’11, dpk13@case.edu

Central Florida (ΖΨ)

Fall 2008 was a successful semester for Zeta Psi’s philanthropy.

Sororities competed in the Second Annual Beta BBQ Challenge. Every week a different sorority did week-long activities to get points toward winning money for their chapter’s respective philanthropies. Points were awarded for house decorations, banners, posters, fundraising and attendance at a BBQ at the Beta chapter house. Sorority participation was exceptional, as they interacted with Betas in a social setting for an excellent cause. Chi Omega was the winning sorority and $1,000 was given to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Zeta Psi looks to continue the Beta BBQ Challenge philanthropy tradition for years to come. — Shane Meckler ’10, shanemeckler@gmail.com

Central Michigan (ΕΓ)

These past few years have been filled with enormous success for Epsilon Gamma.

Numerous accolades have been thrown our way, including being named best fraternity chapter on campus the past two years by means of two consecutive President’s Cups. Even through all of this success, nothing has compared to this past summer.

At the 169th General Convention in Dallas, the men of Epsilon Gamma regained their charter and were awarded their first Sisson Award since 1999; their eighth overall.

Epsilon Gamma has used this as motivation to continue its domination of Greek life at CMU. Having grown from an organization of six active brothers in fall 2006 to a 37-man chapter with a pledge class of 11, Epsilon Gamma is now a clear force to be reckoned with. The Betas of CMU intend to win a Knox Award at the 170th General Convention in Phoenix this summer. — Thomas Younger ’10, young2tm@cmich.edu

Cincinnati (ΒΝ)

Beta Nu has been refocusing its goals for a sustainable future. We have been carefully examining how to execute chapter operations and trying to find ways to improve upon them. In the area of recruitment, we have partnered with the men of Pi Kappa Alpha, the largest fraternity on campus, to improve our numbers and involvement. Brotherhood is at an all time high, as everyone in the Chapter has taken great effort in understanding one another and how we work in a group setting. We have also begun plans for our annual dodge ball tournament which will take place on March 7 with the ladies of Kappa Alpha Theta. We have set a goal of raising $3,500 to split between The Literacy Center West and Pro Kids for Court Appointed Special Advocates. — Nicholas Puncer ’10, puncernw@gmail.com

Clemson (∆Ν)

Our intramural flag football team finished the regular season, 6-0. We held the No. 1 overall ranking for allMen’s intramural flag football teams for four straight weeks, from week’s three to six of the season. We finished the regular season with a 34-28 come from behind victory over the brothers of KA and a number two overall ranking. The offense is led by Richard Bouknight, a junior and two-year starter at quarterback. The defense is led

by Matt Kennedy, a junior and two-year starter at defensive end. The team will only have to replace two graduating seniors in the offseason, Peter Barton on the offensive line and TJ Delduca at middle linebacker.

Our Chapter is poised for a deep run in the playoffs and is hungry for its first intramural flag football championship. — Matthew Kennedy ’10, mkenned@clemson.edu

Colgate (ΒΘ)

The Beta Theta Chapter held its annual silent auction last October, which was aimed at raising money for the local Madison County summer camps. The event is held over parents weekend with the intent of bringing together our families around a charitable cause. The auctioned items were provided both by families in attendance and by local businesses, ranging from candle sets to autographed sports memorabilia. The close work with local area establishments was felt to be an important facet of the event, as it became more of a community helping itself rather than a single organization simply providing charity work.

In the future, we hope to build on these relationships as we continue to work on the behalf of the children that live here now and will live here after our brothers have graduated. — Peter Gill ’10, pgill@students. colgate.edu

Colorado Mines (ΒΦ)

In 2008, the Beta Phi Chapter proved its commitment to community with numerous philanthropic events. Our continued monthly collaboration with the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra promoted extracurricular activities involving music. In addition, March 1 will mark the 11th Annual Ski-A-Thon to promote helmet safety awareness while skiing or snowboarding. This joint venture with St. Anthony’s Intermountain Neurosurgery Helmet Donor Program has raised more than $48,000, increased helmet usage on the mountain by 25 percent and donated 3,500 helmets to 36 Christy Sports stores.

A majority of the Chapter will contact donors, arrange on-mountain events and organize other activities making Ski-A-Thon a success. Our Chapter is involved with Thomas the Tank Engine Day at the Colorado Railroad Museum and Into the Streets, a local environmental awareness activity. These philanthropic events are important not only in helping our brothers work together as a chapter, but also by building strong relationships with the community. — Robbie Deister ’11, rdiester@mines.edu

Columbia (ΑΑ)

Since 2003, the brothers of the Alpha Alpha Chapter at Columbia University have engaged in an annual philanthropy event called the Midnight Run. Each semester, this event is held with the intent of distributing meals to New York City’s homeless population. In the early evening, the Chapter gathers to assemble several hundred meals of homemade sandwiches, snacks and drinks. Later on in the night, the Chapter splits up into two groups, each of which attempt to distribute the most meals. Faithfully continued over the last five years, this philanthropy event is a valuable part of the Beta Theta Pi experience not only because it performs good work in the community, but also because it strengthens the bonds between brothers and pledges of the Alpha Alpha Chapter. — David Williams ’09, dyw2102@columbia.edu

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Dayton (Colony)

The University of Dayton colony proudly introduced its nationally-recognized and award-winning pledge program this semester.

The pledge program focuses on building strong bonds of brotherhood through pledge retreats, developing a deep understanding of the lore and ritual, and how to uphold Beta values in everyday life.

With the introduction of this new pledge program the Colony continues to define itself on Dayton’s campus and distinguish ourselves within the Greek community. The Colony looks forward to next semester’s recruitment season and finding more men of principle to be a part of the incredible brotherhood that is Beta Theta Pi. — Dan Petit ’09, petitdaj@notes.udayton.edu

Denison (ΑΗ)

On the evening of November 1, the Alpha Eta Chapter was re-installed at Denison University. More than 70 Alpha Etas, alumni, advisors, General Fraternity officers and friends of Beta were present to share in the joy of returning the 140-year-old chapter to campus. There ceremony was led by General Fraternity President Dr. Tom Purinton. The original Alpha Eta charter, signed by Dr. Francis Wayland Shepardson, will once again hang in the Alpha Eta Chapter Hall.

Under the leadership of Philanthropy Chairman Ben Hobbs ’10, Alpha Eta has been busy preparing its King of the Wing chicken wing eating contest to benefit the Center for Disabilities Services in Licking County. Individuals and teams will face off to collectively consume more than 700 chicken wings. The Chapter is diligently preparing for the spring formal recruitment period. — Christopher Greene ’10, greene_ cm@denison.edu

DePauw (∆)

Urged on by mounting accolades and an outpouring of alumni support the Delta Chapter has emerged on campus as the beacon of Greek leadership. Pivotal to this transformation was a desire to re-examine the fundamental principles of governance underlying chapter operations. This fall, brothers formed a task force that launched a comprehensive analysis of the Chapter’s bylaws and operational procedures. They sought to address inadequacies in the existing system by invoking the principles and ideals set forth by the General Fraternity.

One important upshot of the committee’s work was a revamped Kai Committee.

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Formerly comprised of executive officers, the committee structure was redrawn to stipulate a direct election of the judiciary by chapter vote. Thanks to the committee’s hard work and dedication, the Chapter now enjoys a more equitable system that encourages brotherhood and promotes responsibility and accountability.

— William Tidwell ’11, williamtidwell_ 2011@depauw.edu

Eastern Illinois (Colony)

After earning the highest overall grade point average on campus last semester, the Eastern Illinois University Colony began the fall semester strong. During homecoming week, we collaborated with the local police and fire department to educate the campus on the dangers of drunk driving.

A wrecked vehicle that had been involved in a drunk driving accident was placed on one of the campus quads for the entire duration of homecoming week. Several posters and flyers were posted around the car with statistics, facts and pictures involving driving under the influence.

Several Eastern Illinois faculty commented on the uniqueness of the display. The exhibit was well received by the student body. With all of their other successes during homecoming week, the Eastern Illinois University colony is having a very successful year. — Nicholas Niemerg ’11, npniemerg@eiu.edu

Eastern Kentucky (∆Ξ)

The Delta Xi Colony continues to make successful strides toward re-chartering this year at the 2009 General Convention. With the help of a fall class of 11 newly initiated brothers, the colony continues to re-establish itself on campus. Sponsoring a room at the newlyopened Liberty Place Women’s Shelter, volunteering at a haunted house to raise money for a Lexington rest home and holding our annual Beta football tournament were just a few of the philanthropy events the Chapter did last semester.

Delta Xi remains active on campus as well. Members of the Colony include the vice president of the Student Activities Council, orientation leaders, president of the lacrosse club and numerous officers in many other student organizations. The Colony continues to progress in all aspects of fraternity life. — Gareth Saums ’11, gareth_saums@eku.edu

Eastern Washington (ΕΩ)

One of the main goals for the Epsilon Omega Chapter right now is to achieve a zero balance and still have enough money to support itself and maintain the house.

The brothers aim to keep the house in good condition and have available funds to prepare it when needed. The Chapter has encouraged each of its members to be financially responsible and is working hard to resolve its debt. The main goal is to have the Chapter at a zero balance in the new year. — Matt Morgan ’10, mimorgan@eagles.ewu.edu

Emory (ΓΥ)

The Gamma Upsilon Chapter set out to reform and improve its pledge program by starting an initiative called Constructive Pledge Reform (CPR). For years, the pledge process had remained relatively consistent, and a great effort was needed to create what would essentially be a new pledge program. To achieve this goal, the Chapter formed a committee that established what exactly the goals of pledging were to be, and reviewed every individual event from the previous pledge program to determine whether it meets these goals and if it should be continued.

The committee went on to design the new program and continues to meet weekly to discuss how the current pledge process is going. While much more work is certainly needed, the fact that the Chapter has set upon the task of greatly changing and improving its pledge program is a significant accomplishment. — Ross Fahey ’10, rfahey@emory.edu

Florida (ΓΞ)

While maintaining excellence in scholarship, leadership, service and athletics, the men of Gamma Xi have experienced a major surge in alumni interest and participation. The newly-formed Florida Beta Theta Pi Alumni Association has sparked renewed Beta spirit among both actives and alumni. Homecoming was a huge success, with an excellent turnout for the alumni/active golf tournament and game day barbecue. Over the summer, Gamma Xi held its inaugural alumni and executive board retreat. This highly-beneficial weekend event produced a year-long plan for the executive board. Our service and philanthropy chairmen organized a successful campus-wide bone marrow drive with more than 200 participants in support of Gamma Xi alumnus, Spike Thompson.

Betas and friends can support the drive

by visiting www.spikethompson.com. The brothers of Gamma Xi always encourage alumni to visit, especially for a chapter meeting or game day. Please visit our website at www.ufbeta.org. — Rajiv Asnani ’11, raj1988@ufl.edu

Florida International (Colony)

The Florida International University Colony has been quite busy. One highlight has been our involvement with Delta Phi Epsilon and our collaborated effort to bring awareness to our campus about the danger of anorexia nervosa and associated eating disorders. Together, we hosted a week-long series of events that included a healthy brunch and a Zumba class for students, both of which were free of charge.

To end the week, we held a candlelight vigil in honor and memory of those who have suffered with these disorders. It was a great opportunity to give of ourselves to the campus community and to prevent more people from falling victim to these debilitating disorders. — Max Vasquez ’11, iigbiimax@aol.com

Georgia (ΕΕ)

Once again, the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter received the John Reily Knox Award.

This year at Convention, we were one of eight chapters to receive this coveted award and the only chapter to receive it two years in a row. The Knox Award has requirements in academics, campus involvement, community service, philanthropy and leadership. We are particularly proud of the fact that nine men attended the Leadership College at the General Convention in Dallas this past summer. We held a recognition dinner at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education on October 19. Though we are very proud of this accomplishment, we are already hard at work on achieving the Knox award again next convention for a third consecutive year. — Peyton Edwards ’10, peyton@uga.edu

Georgia Tech (ΓΗ)

This past semester, brothers of Gamma Eta were actively involved in many of our community service projects, including the Atlanta Arts Festival, the Sandy Springs Art Festival, TEAM Buzz and Trees Atlanta.

With a pledge class of 31, we excelled in campus involvement, as well as athletics by taking first place among all fraternities in flag football. We hope to continue our campus leadership in grades. To continue our alumni involvement, we have started a pledge mentoring program. Each pledge is assigned to an alumnus, and the alumnus

talks with them about school, pledging and other aspects of their lives. Also last fall, Gamma Eta invited alumni and family of the Chapter to join us for homecoming, where we welcomed the alumni back by singing The Alumni’s Return. — Bill May ’10, wmay3@gatech.edu

HampdenSydney (Ζ)

After much hard work since the Chapter’s recolonization in 2005, we were honored with the return to good status by vote of the representatives of the General Convention in Dallas. As such, we are excited about this and will be holding a chartering banquet in the spring to officially receive our charter from a delegation of the General Fraternity Our hope is to work toward a Sisson or Knox Award in the coming semesters as we continue to build up a strong fraternity of future leaders on our campus. — Ryan Haywood ’10, haywoodr@hsc.edu

Illinois (ΣΡ)

The Sigma Rho Chapter is doing well and continuing to improve alumni relations.

With the help of our advisors, we are improving the way our alumni look at Sigma Rho. The Chapter has been working tirelessly to improve the interior of the chapter house. The brothers raised money to buy more furnishings, with a heavy emphasis on the first floor. We took it upon ourselves to make a few important repairs around the house, and implemented a new policy for cleaning the house. The Chapter is excited for the alumni to come back home to the house they love. We have kept our alumni more up to date on what is going on at Sigma Rho in the area of pledge education, philanthropy, social events and risk management. — Anthony Farella ’11, farella2@uiuc.edu

Indiana (Π)

The Pi Chapter had an extremely successful fall intramural season winning three championships. Matt Jones ’09 and Andrew Eshelman ’09 won their second consecutive intramural golf championship on September 26.

Their senior leadership will be missed next year as the Chapter looks to win another title. The volleyball team won its first championship on November 3 over Phi Kappa Psi. After dropping the first set, Beta responded with an impressive second set victory, and rallied from behind in the third set to win the championship. The flag football team won its second intramural championship in three years with a victory over FIJI on November 9. Beta trailed the game with roughly five minutes left

in the game. Kyle Bryum ’09 led the offense downfield, and converted on fourth and eight with a touchdown pass to Jake Kocal ’09, which turned out to be the winning score. — Sean Kelley ’10, kelleysm@umail.iu.edu

Iowa (ΑΒ)

This semester, our Chapter had a very promising start to the year with the reacquisition of our charter. One of the key events during the semester was our second annual Beta Bags tournament.

This event received a successful turnout throughout the Greek community, and it brought enjoyment to our members that organized it. It helped to raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House charity which helps families address problems regarding health care. Our philanthropy chairman has been actively pursuing other philanthropic events that our members can participate in, as well. As a chapter, we look to get more involved in the community and continue the academic successes we have had. — Geoffrey Dankle ’10, geoffery-dankle@uiowa.edu

Iowa State (ΤΣ)

The Tau Sigma Colony has worked to improve its community service and philanthropic efforts.

We created a goal of averaging 15 hours of community service per member over the academic year. The Colony partnered with the Ames chapter of VFW to sell Buddy Poppies at local grocery stores to raise money for their organization.

Our members participated in a “pick up campus” program every week, wearing Beta letters while picking up other students’ garbage around campus. Before finishing their pledge education process, our pledge class visited a nursing home in Des Moines and spent time with the residents. We also hosted our third annual Beta Burgers and Bands philanthropy, an outdoor concert with an endless supply of grilled cheeseburgers. The event featured several local bands performing, including multiple Betas. All proceeds raised went toward the 10,000 Hours Show, a local organization promoting volunteerism among Iowa college students. — Ryan Kennedy ’09, kennedy@iastate.edu

John Carroll (Colony)

The men of the John Carroll University Colony have furthered their participation in campus volunteer work, Beta philanthropy events and promoting Greek life philanthropy events. We held our inaugural campus wide philanthropy event titled “Carroll’s Got Talent” which received Winter 2009

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great support from the Greek community, students and faculty members. The proceeds benefitted the Cleveland Clinic’s Children’s Research Hospital. The men reached out to the community by organizing and volunteering to do yard work for a local monastery in the Cleveland area. Ryan Schoonmaker ’09 participated in Kappa Alpha Theta’s annual “Mr. University” philanthropy pageant. The brothers fulfilled their goal of utilizing service to promote brotherhood, by participating weekly in “Labre Project,” which serves meals to the homeless in the Cleveland area. The goals for the spring semester include Beta’s second annual “Karaoke Night” and other philanthropy projects both on campus and within the Cleveland area. — Christopher DiNapoli ’09, cdinapoli09@jcu.edu

Johns Hopkins (ΑΧ)

The brothers at Johns Hopkins University have been putting outstanding efforts to foster our positive representation around the campus by organizing large-scale philanthropic events.

The first of these efforts was the “Involved” community service with the freshmen. This entailed brothers directing more than 200 freshmen students to participate in cleaning up local areas. We also, for the first time, initiated “Pan-Hellenic day of service” at the University. On the day of service, brothers participated in an all Greek clean-up of the surrounding campus neighborhoods. As a result, we not only showed our leadership within the Greek community, but also contributed in the building of good relations between the students of JHU and its local residents. Lastly, the “Beta Burrito Benefit” during orientation was another great achievement. By accepting donations of $5 for a burrito and a Beta shirt, we raised more than $1,550 for Habitat for Humanity.

— JungHwan Choi ’10, jchoi56@jhu.edu

Kansas State (ΓΕ)

The brothers of the Gamma Epsilon Chapter continue to work hard to exceed our standards of excellence. Not only on track to win our fifth consecutive intramural championship, the Chapter is preparing to celebrate its 95th anniversary as a chapter of Beta Theta Pi this fall. In the Greek community, Reed Pankratz and Lee Van Loenen were elected to the Inter-fraternal Council executive board as directors of public relations and community and internal relations respectively. Meanwhile, the Chapter transformed the house into a haunted mansion for our annual “Beta Boo” philanthropy. Six hundred people gave monetary donations and over three hundred pounds of canned goods to the 24

The Beta Theta Pi

flint hills breadbasket. While the rest of the chapter strives to maintain a high grade point average, we look forward to this year’s upcoming leadership opportunities. — Stratton Bachman ’10, slb4ksu.@ksu.edu

Kettering B (∆Η)

The Delta Eta Chapter has begun making plans for its first chapter-run alumni event since re-colonization.

This spring we are inviting our alumni back on campus and look forward to meeting and updating them on the Chapter’s progress. Also, with great excitement, the latter part of the year will mark our 45th anniversary as a chapter at Kettering University, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone. As for this term, our brothers have managed to again demonstrate their commitment to cultivation of the intellect. For the second consecutive term, we have been proud to have the highest grade point average on campus among all other fraternities. Overall, we look forward to the future and are honored by the past. — Valentin Hernandez ’11, hern8357@kettering.edu

Knox (Ξ)

Homecoming brought many alumni back to campus. Before the homecoming football game, we had a Beta tent set up at a tailgate with food and drinks for all of our alumni. Many of them stopped by and were very interested in how things were going with the Chapter. Following the game, we had a catered dinner for all of our members and their families. We were pleased with the turnout and, after the dinner, we had a ceremony for Lynn Salier ’56 who was recently inducted into the Xi Chapter Hall of Fame. Finally, we passed The Loving Cup around and capped off a great homecoming weekend. All is well with the Xi Chapter. — Joseph Graeff ’10, jgraeff@knox.edu

Lawrence (ΓΠ)

Brothers have set out to improve their relations with the community. As Betas, we hold our relationship with our community dear, especially our Greek community. Although, in the past few years, relations with other chapters on campus have not been negative, they have not been completely healthy. To remedy this, we actively participated in events geared to foster better bonds with other organizations on campus. We sent several members to a Greek-life retreat held at Bjorklunden, a resort for Lawrence students. The purpose of the retreat was to build friendships,

strengthen ties and build awareness between Greek organizations. Members who attended have since introduced and spoken about the themes and ideas that were discussed. The hopes are to better friendships and create an environment in which more Greek events and activities are created. — Max David Foehringer Merchant ’09, greenbjs@whitman.edu

Louisville (∆Π)

Delta Pi was lucky enough to finally move into its newly-renovated house.

Last fall, we had the largest pledge class in years, filled with young leaders eager to get involved with Beta and the University.

Campus involvement has increased with in the active chapter with positions like student ambassadors, first year guides, resident interns and resident assistants.

We increased leadership positions in organizations like SGA homecoming Committee, Mortar Board, French Club and L-Raisers. The house’s accessibility has also increased our ability to serve the local community and, because of that, we have “adopted” a highway in the community that we have obliged to clean on a regular basis. Delta Pi looks forward to the success that we know the spring semester will bring. — Zachary Gerdes ’11, zjgerd01@louisville.edu

Loyola Marymount (ΗΑ)

Last fall, Loyola Marymount had its annual “Greek Week” competition and the men of the Eta Alpha Chapter finished second overall, its highest placing in Chapter history. The competition focused its philanthropic section to a local organization that aids low-income school children, and the Chapter collected more school supplies than any other fraternity on campus.

This semester we are planning a new philanthropy that will be innovative and will bring the University community together for a noble cause. — Daen Ekpa ’10, daenekpa@yahoo.com

Miami (Α)

The Alpha Chapter had an immensely successful semester when it comes to philanthropic events.

We had our yearly Preppy Sports fundraiser in which participants from all over Miami’s campus gather in teams to play games such as Crochet and Badminton. We started a weekly service event in which we go to The Knolls, a local retirement home.

Brothers travel with a sorority to partake in various types of activities including playing Wii and salsa dancing. In addition, we had

our yearly event in memory of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on America. We passed out flags in different parts of campus to remember the tragedy and those who were lost. The value of service has been something that the Chapter has stressed this semester and we stand proud of how we have represented Beta Theta Pi. — Daniel Scott ’10, mackends@muohio.edu

Miami (Fla.) (Colony)

The recently chartered Eta Beta Chapter is pleased to have formed a partnership with the Autism Society of America. In November the Chapter organized the inaugural Beta Ball: Kick for a Cause, a one-day kickball tournament in support of autism research that was open to all campus fraternities, sororities and non-Greek freshmen. Plans are being developed for the spring semester, including the second annual Beta Blast, as well as other philanthropic work with the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Autism Society for America. — Jason Mills ’10, j.mills1@umiami.edu

Middle Tennessee State (ΕΘ)

Our brothers took the football field with a sour taste in their mouths after losing last season’s championship game. This year, the Chapter showed total dominance over the competition in the championship game and secured first place in the IFC league. This sets the Chapter up to be one of the top contenders for the All Sports Award. Epsilon Theta was able to gain in academics as well as athletics by raising the Chapter grade point average by .3 points. The Chapter is beginning to take great strides toward improving campus and IFC involvement. — Matthew Tragarz ’09, mdt2t@mtsu.edu

Minnesota (ΒΠ)

The Chapter began the semester on a good note, bringing five awards home from the General Convention.

Recruitment was a great success, signing 19 outstanding pledges. Beta Pi is striving for the best, as we move forward in the future. Pledge Educator David Hopps implemented a new pledge education program. Recruitment Chairman Kevin Schultz is constructing an entirely new recruitment platform, with hopes to increase our recruitment success. These are just a couple of the changes happening at Minnesota, as our members look to the future and strive to continually improve upon the successes of those who came before us and for those that will come after.

— Zachary Palen ’10, pale0054@umn.edu

MissouriKansas City (ΕΛ)

This semester, we set out to improve our commitment to the community. Our goal was to increase the amount of community service opportunities available to members rather than increasing fundraising. We felt it important to actually get out and work with community members. In this effort, the Chapter now organizes a monthly community service event which a majority of the Chapter attends. The Chapter worked at the Sherwood Center, a school for autistic children, as well as Harvester’s, a local food bank. Our philanthropy chairman has opened these events to sororities on campus as well as Alpha Phi Omega.

Thus, monthly events provide opportunities for members to help the community as well as a chance to network and meet new people. The Chapter looks to branch out next semester and include other local organizations. — Alex Barrett ’09, AlexBarrett@umkc.edu

Nebraska (ΑΤ)

During the weekend of September 6, we held our inaugural Dads and Alumni weekend, combining our annual Dads Day and Alumni Golf Tournament into a weekendlong event. The weekend included a home Nebraska football game, followed by a reception at the Chapter house. Our house dad, Ervin Williams grilled out for the reception, with the help of our alumni chapter advisor, as well as our cook, Faith.

The next day, the Chapter hosted a golf tournament at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course, which was attended by more than 30 dads and alumni. Alpha Tau’s inaugural Dads and Alumni weekend was a great success, with more than 200 dads, alumni and active members participating. We look forward to continuing and expanding this new tradition. — Tom Salistean ’09, secretary@beta.unl.edu

North Carolina (Η)

During the fall semester, the Eta Chapter initiated 10 young men, including five legacies. On November 7, we hosted our annual parents’ cocktail at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill. On November 13, the Chapter hosted its annual philanthropy chili dinner with the Chi Omega Sorority. The event benefited the UNC Dance Marathon, an organization that raises money each year for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. Each brother sold at least four tickets to the dinner, and the event was well attended. The Eta Chapter looks forward to a successful spring recruitment in 2009, hoping

to initiate at least four to five men in March. — Thomas Nading ’10, nading@email.unc.edu

North Dakota (ΓΚ)

“Relationships are the currency of life.”

Gamma Kappa Vice President Michael Green, along with other members, have used this saying to motivate the Chapter to expand our relationships to others on campus, as well as within our chapter house. The Chapter has two major goals that are directly related to improving relationships: improved recruitment numbers and increased philanthropy support. We have taken great strides this year in improving both fraternity and sorority relations on campus. Brothers have hosted and attended several events which have allowed our members to interact with individuals from other Greek houses.

Our Chapter has held many brotherhood events, with great turnouts. The overall increased number of relationships has lead to an improvement of the quality of life within the chapter house and for its members. — Dustin Patterson ’10, dustin. patterson@und.edu

Nova Southeastern (ΖΜ)

For the Zeta Mu Chapter, last semester was one of improvement and leadership. The brothers are anticipating the initiation of even well rounded pledges, some of whom will run in elections for executive board positions.

The brothers co-hosted a large philanthropy called Reddy-to-Rock for the multiple sclerosis condition. Zeta Mu is hosting and co-hosting 10 alcohol awareness events in the near future. Some of the Zeta Mu brothers hold leadership positions on campus including two executive board positions on IFC, one executive board position in Greek Council and three brothers in Order of Omega. — Anthony Benza ’10, benza@nova.edu

Oklahoma (ΓΦ)

The men of the Gamma Phi Chapter are getting ready for their upcoming date party, Beta Barn Dance. The brothers have already begun constructing plans for the traditional Barn to be built on the front lawn outside of the Chapter house. This event, which has been an on-going Chapter tradition since the early 50s, will last for an entire week, each night consisting of various activities with invited guests from local sororities. To conclude the week, the men of Gamma Phi will host a two-night western-themed date party. This event has been nationally ranked as one of Winter 2009

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the top fraternity events in the nation, and is sure to be no different this year. — Cory Lloyd ’10, corymlloyd@ou.edu

Ole Miss (ΒΒ)

The fall semester went well for the Beta Beta Chapter. The Chapter held a model rush focusing on leadership and brotherhood, pledging nine potential new brothers. The Chapter has added four new advisers to its advisory team. The brothers would like to thank all who attended our Parent-Alumni Weekend on November 1, and would also like to thank parents, alumni, advisers and friends of the Beta Beta Chapter for their continued support. A special thanks is given to Dr. Kathy Hankins for her love and support of the Beta Beta Chapter. — Sean Ross ’09, sfross@olemiss.edu

Oregon (ΒΡ)

Our rush effort was more organized and successful than it has been in quite some time. After a very small pledge class in the spring, we rebounded with 32 quality pledges this fall.

This is one of the biggest pledge classes the Chapter has ever seen. Despite the numbers, we were able to recruit a very diverse group of men. With pledges from the East Coast all the way to British Columbia, we are very excited to watch these young men transform into contributing members of Beta Theta Pi. — Kyle Becker ’10, kbecker2@uoregon.edu

Pennsylvania (Φ)

With amazing brotherhood events, successful charitable events and a stellar intramural sport season, Beta has continued to leave a positive mark on the University of Pennsylvania campus. To pick one event to describe our term would be doing all the other great activities a disservice. Instead, our Chapter has chosen to describe our fall term using a certain word: “bromance.”

In the City of Brotherly Love, we think it is very appropriate that our Fraternity displays the same style of brotherly love to each other for which our city is known.

The camaraderie and togetherness seen at every gathering this year has made the idea of lifelong fraternal brother a reality.

We hope to carry our enthusiasm into the future as we prepare for an exciting spring term. — Eric Morris ’11, ecmorris@wharton. upenn.edu

Purdue (ΒΜ)

The year started off with high expectations as 34 out of 35 bids were accepted. A notable event this semester was Richard G. Lugar, a U.S. Senator for Indiana and a Denison Beta, visiting the Chapter house to eat and speak to the brothers of the Beta Mu Chapter. Our annual Theta-Beta Grill-off philanthropy chaired by Josh Kaskel ’11 earned more than $7,600 for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). A new program set up by Sean Kennelly ’11 has the brothers of our Chapter offering more than 24 hours per week of their time to help children with their homework at the local Boys and Girls Club. — Brett Haywood ’10, bhaywood@purdue.edu

Saint Louis (ΖΤ)

In November, the Zeta Tau Chapter and pledges traveled to Oxford for a weekend. We initiated five of our pledges in the Hall of Chapters. In addition to initiation, we took time to tour Brennan Hall and show the new members the history and founding of the Fraternity. Some of the actives even stopped by the Alpha chapter house for a tour. — Jason Potts ’09, pottsjc@gmail.com

Southern California (ΓΤ)

In its first semester back as a chartered chapter, Gamma Tau has continued its realization as “the premier fraternal experience at USC.” A benchmark school year, the brothers invested a significant amount of energy into recruitment and leadership development.

Gamma Tau recruited 19 outstanding freshmen leaders, three of whom are now in executive offices. Pursuing excellence as community leaders, Gamma Tau is one of two chapters with two members serving on the IFC board. Additionally, the Chapter is augmenting its interest in philanthropy and community service, adding two more positions to work in conjunction with the philanthropy chairman for the spring semester. The Chapter is gearing up for its Beta Beach philanthropy this spring. More than anything, we’re excited about our incredibly promising future. — Dano Marr ’11, dmarr@usc.edu

Tennessee (∆Κ)

The Delta Kappa Chapter has renewed its commitment to the community. We kicked off our new initiative to the Knoxville area by working with Soar Youth Ministries on some landscaping projects.

The men of our Chapter donated more 26

The Beta Theta Pi

than 40 volunteer hours in the first week alone. In addition to community service, we also participated in as many philanthropic events as time has permitted; the most notable being Anchor Splash hosted by Delta Gamma Sorority, which benefited Service for Sight Grants as well as Kappa Delta Sorority’s War of the Wings, which benefited East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.

— Andrew Ruth ’10, aruth@utk.edu

Texas (ΒΟ)

Our brothers have been striving to increase their involvement in the local community.

This past fall, our Chapter volunteered for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, an event that benefits the fight against breast cancer. This spring, we will hold our third annual Powder Puff football tournament, in which sororities and other female organizations compete in a flag football tournament. Last year’s tournament raised more than $7,800, and we anticipate continued growth in the number of participants this year. All proceeds are donated to Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin. — Kent Gaskin ’09, kentgaskin@mail.utexas.edu

Texas Tech (∆Μ)

The Delta Mu Chapter at Texas Tech had a great start to the fall semester. We took the crown for homecoming king for the third time in the last four years with Dailey Fuller being announced homecoming king of 2008. On October 2, the Chapter held Beta 500, a philanthropy event to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis.

During Beta 500 all 11 sororities of Texas Tech participated in a relay race at the local go-cart track. At this event the president of the West Texas chapter of the MS Society was present to thank the Chapter and participants for helping in the fight against MS by raising more than $6,000 through 15 sponsors and generous donations. We had a great rush by taking the best men Texas Tech had to offer, and we look forward to another strong rush this spring. — Bobby Butler ’10, bobby.butler@ttu.edu

TexasArlington (∆Ρ)

For the last service project of the semester, Delta Rho and the Social Work Constituent Council teamed up to make a donation to the Salvation Army. There was a two-day clothing drive after Thanksgiving break held in front of the UT Arlington Central Library. The Salvation Army then distributed all donations to local homeless families in Arlington. Brothers

are preparing for the Beta 500 this spring.

We will be seeking out sponsors and donations to push forward our Heroes for Hope philanthropy. Recent alumni have already contributed to help jump start the philanthropy and we are excited to begin working on the event. — Charles Nguyen ’09, leprakonboi@sbcglobal.net

Toronto (ΘΖ)

This has been a great year for Theta Zeta. A lot of energy has been around the chapter house and fortunately, it has been expressed in the form of philanthropic events. With nearly full Chapter participation, and some alumni involvement, in both philanthropy events, the Chapter is well on its way to having the Sisson requirement for philanthropy hours completed. The two events that we have taken part in so far this year have been volunteering for the Scotia Bank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and holding our annual haunted house for local area children. We received great feedback from both the organizers of the marathon and the parents at the haunted house, and have made great strides to improve the reputation of Beta Theta Pi in our community.

— Matthew MacDougall ’10, mattmacdougall12@hotmail.com

Truman State (ΖΞ)

The men of Zeta Xi are pleased to announce another successful fall recruitment.

We welcomed in 19 new Sons of the Stars. This recruitment was the first time we were able to utilize the Men of Principle scholarship. We were very excited to start using the scholarship, and learned a lot through our first experience with it. The entire application process went smoothly and we look forward to better advertising the scholarship for next year.

We anticipate that it will be an even bigger success in the years to come. — Stephen Grzesiowski ’09, sjg540@truman.edu

Utah (ΓΒ)

Every year, the Gamma Beta Chapter holds a philanthropy event. Our goal for the event is to give back to the community by volunteer work or to collect money for a certain charity. This year, we decided to hold a poker tournament, with all the collected donations going to a charity. The tournament was a $10 buy-in and we offered prizes such as iPods and video games to the winners. Instead of limiting the tournament to Betas, we invited other sororities and fraternities on Greek Row. It was open to University of Utah students who had no affiliation with the Greek community. By doing

this, we were able to raise more money as well as get our name out on campus. Our philanthropy poker tournament was, without a doubt, one of the more successful events this chapter has had in quite some time. — Quinn Wilcox ’10, u0524507@umail.utah.edu

Virginia (Ο)

The Omicron Chapter hosted an election debate about the U.S. Presidential candidates to help the brothers make an informed vote this coming Election Day. Although two of our brothers in the Jefferson Literary and Debating Society argued for both candidates, the Omicron Chapter invited sorority women, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and our honored guests, reporters from Channel 4, one of the major British Television news networks. The reporters from the United Kingdom documented college views on the American election and interviewed brothers about Greek life. A clip of the debate and chapter meeting can be seen at http:// www.channel4.com/news/articles/politics/ international_politics/how+us+attitudes+ch anged+forever/2700377. — James Kim ’10, jtk3c@virginia.edu

Virginia Tech (ΑΦ)

This semester, brothers made plans to involve the entire Virginia Tech community with our philanthropic events to promote campus unity. We teamed up with Alpha Delta Pi, Delta Sigma and FIJI to build a wheel chair ramp for a family with a disabled child.

Our goal was to raise $1,200. We not only achieved our goal, but successfully raised $2,700 to support this cause. We plan to construct this ramp over the next couple of months. We are also in the later stages of planning our biggest philanthropy of the year.

We are having a singing competition called “Hokie Idol,” and plan to raise money for the New River Valley Free Clinic. Due to the increasing number of people being laid off, the clinic could use some financial support.

— Danny Raynes ’09, draynes@vt.edu

Wabash (Τ)

The Tau Chapter continued its excellence in the realm of athletics at Wabash College.

The Little Giants football team was lead by seniors Adam Pilli, Darryl Kennon, Patrick Long, Brent Banach and Andrew Rode.

Underclassmen Chad Sorenson, Addrian Frederick, Kyle Grand and Tommy Mambourg also had major roles in the team’s 9-1 season record and playoff birth. Freshman Donavan White was an intrical part of the Wabash Cross Country team, placing 25th at the 2008 NCAC Cross Country championships. The

Wabash basketball team will look to Ben Burkett to be a major force on the court this winter. The future looks bright for the Chapter as well with 19 freshmen participating in varsity athletics including basketball, football and baseball. The Tau Chapter is proud of its athletic accomplishments and will continue to prosper in athletics in the future. — Iandrew Starnes ’11, starnesi@wabash.edu

Washington (ΒΩ)

This past semester, Beta Omega ushered in a lot of new changes to the physical structure of the Chapter house due to gracious donations from many alumni. During the summer and into the autumn the kitchen and cafeteria, as well as the largest bathroom in the house, were remodeled thanks to a donation from some of our most generous alumni, the Nordstrom family. In the next year, other housing improvements are scheduled including the library. Our housing corporation has a plan that will greatly improve the academic facilities to be the top house on campus after multiple quarters of being in the top three.

Our alumni continue to be very involved and continue to make our experience in Beta Theta Pi and at the University of Washington as enjoyable as possible. — Robert Suelzle ’11, robsuelzle12@yahoo.com

Washington & Jefferson (Γ)

Under the guidance of Connor A. Frank ’10, the Gamma Chapter has been collecting change on weekly basis to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This is an activity that has brought many of the brothers together as well as increased awareness for leukemia and lymphoma. To date, more than $150 has been raised for the society. We are actively raising awareness for this cause. — Jordan Sokoloski ’10, sokoloskije@washjeff.edu

Washington State

After previously receiving the highest freshmen GPA on campus, Gamma Theta has taken a focused look at the Chapter’s cultivation of the intellect. With a new scholarship chairman who revamped the study program, the Chapter is confident that the men of Gamma Theta will receive top scholastic marks across the University. Along with a strong focus on scholastic achievement, the Chapter has been working closely with its alumni advisory board. We have been hard at work trying to get back in good standing. Gamma Theta eagerly looks to the future. — Austin Seale ’11, austin.seale@gmail.com

Winter 2009

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Washington in St. Louis (ΑΙ)

Alpha Iota has taken on a community service initiative as we push to strengthen our commitment to the Beta ritual and values. In the past month, we had six brothers participate in a 5k walk for juvenile diabetes, where we walked with Matt Lohmann’s family (AI 1853). In addition, we raised $200 for Jeff Lack’s (AI 1700) fight against diabetes. In supporting Dance Marathon Executive Member Doug Horn (AI 1832), Beta was the top fundraising fraternity and had more than 30 brothers participate by dancing, volunteering and even DJ-ing (Dan Zernickow AI 1864). For being the top fundraising fraternity we received a gift card for $500 to Home Depot, which we are using toward the annual Thurtene Carnival. We have 15 brothers who are spending a day building a house for the St. Louis branch of Habitat for Humanity. — Benjamin Heller ’09, bjheller@wustl.edu

Wesleyan (ΜΕ)

Our Chapter is proud to acknowledge the work of two nonprofit organizations founded and run by current members. Diabetes Happens, founded in 2007 by senior Tyler Byrne, focuses on showing diabetics how to live with rather than around their condition, by providing people with the chance to attend exciting and informative opportunities such as the Chris Dudley Basketball Camp. The second foundation, Birthright Earth, was just founded this summer by Mu Epsilon’s Tim Devane and Eli Bronner. Birthright Earth is an organization founded on the principle that people must “see it to save it.”

It will provide young people the opportunity to visit some of the few remaining pristine rainforests in Central and South America to foster a stronger dedication to our world’s irreplaceable ecosystems. For more information, please visit diabeteshappens. com and birthrightearth.com. — Benjamin Morris ’10, bmorris@wesleyan.edu

West Virginia (ΒΨ)

The men of Beta Psi continue to take strides in becoming a very complete chapter. Fall recruitment went very well and resulted in the initiation of nine new brothers.

The Chapter continues to remain active on campus with a good showing in homecoming week and the Greek games. The Chapter continues to participate and perform well in philanthropies and continues to focus on bettering the Morgantown community.

Improvements to the Beta Psi Chapter house continue to be made as a capital campaign

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The Beta Theta Pi

is underway to set the house a part from any other on WVU’s campus. — Craig Boegner ’09, cboegner@mix.wvu.edu

Whitman (ΓΖ)

The Gamma Zeta Chapter has been very active in its philanthropy outreach program. One of the more recent causes to which we committed was a charity program led by our house chef, Jo Mallard, who was raising money to research MDS. Unbeknownst to her, our Chapter collected more than $200 and presented it to her the night of our annual Christmas dinner. We held other events, such as pumpkin carving for the children of faculty and participated in a community haunted house. The Chapter wishes to congratulate senior Jordan Droppert on a final soccer season, as well as pledges Joe Wheeler for cross country and John-Henry Heckendorn for success in debate. As usual, the lacrosse team is getting fired up for its upcoming season, and the entire Chapter is excited to support its members on the field. Seniors Matt Duncan and David Ogle will lead the team as captains. — Justin Greenberg ’09, greenbjs@whitman.edu

Wichita State (∆Γ)

The Delta Gamma Chapter has been continuing to build itself up, not only in campus involvement, but with member numbers as well as new additions to the chapter house. The intramural soccer team again won the Fraternity league soccer championship, which makes this four years in a row we have taken that honor. We have several members running for IFC positions as well as SGA positions. After our new patio and courtyard addition last spring, we had other alumni donate to the house, most recently having the stairs to our basement re-done. Our fall pledge class renovated the basement as well as some improvements to make the chapter house more appealing to potential new members. — Mark Deabler ’09, mwdeabler@wichita.edu

William & Mary (ΖΥ)

The Zeta Upsilon Chapter has truly discovered the value behind one of Beta’s goals of commitment to the community. In November, the Chapter went to the York River State Park in one of our surrounding communities of Williamsburg to help with maintenance of one of Virginia’s state parks. They had us do simple tasks such as digging up roots in the trails that hikers could potentially trip on. During this process, we passed by several tourists and hikers on the path that thanked us for our contribution the park. The sincerity behind their thank you allowed our

chapter to experience the feeling of helping out a community and also allowed for our brotherhood to strengthen its bonds of lifelong friendship by doing it all together and having a great time. Because of the amazing turn out for this community service project, we plan to implement monthly brotherhood community service projects to give and provide more for our community. — Andrew Leyes ’11, adleye@wm.edu

Willamette (ΓΣ)

Gamma Sigma started the year out in a brand new chapter house, which was completely renovated over the summer after our old house was torn down. After a semester, painting the walls has begun and they will hopefully be completely covered in Beta symbols, letters and lore within the next few years. Our annual Penny coat drive was a tremendous success as members collected hundreds of jackets, sweaters and boots from the surrounding community in Salem, Oregon, to give to those less fortunate. Brothers look forward to the big spring recruitment period and will continue to work on recruiting a top pledge class. — Tyler Thompson ’09, t_thompson_@hotmail.com

WisconsinOshkosh (ΖΖ)

Our Chapter actively recruited for the entire year and did so with integrity. Our goal was to have at least a pledge class of 10 men.

We were able to initiate nine new brothers into the Zeta Zeta Chapter. This pledge class was one that was already very involved on campus, which was new for our Chapter. We had members involved in choir, swimming, model UN and the Red Cross. We are very excited and proud of all of our newly-initiated brothers. Our goal is to have a pledge class of 10 for the spring semester. — James Wiciak ’11, wiciaj10@uwosh.edu

Wittenberg (ΑΓ)

The Alpha Gamma Chapter found extra time to develop the community of Springfield with its philanthropic abilities. Through the entire semester, brothers have been attending Infusion, an after school program focusing on the arts, music and theatre. Besides logging more than 125 hours at the Infusion center, brothers still found time to join up with the Alpha Delta Pi sorority to host a Christmas dance party at the local Mercy Adult hospital.

The evening of dancing, talking and caroling was by far one of the greatest memories for all those in attendance. The Chapter looks forward to an excellent spring recruitment. — Jeff Schak ’11, s09. jschak@wittenberg.edu

Roundup [Sports RoundUp]

FOOTBALL

Center Brian Selman ’09 of the highly-ranked Alabama Sugar Bowl squad handled deep snapping duties in every game for the second straight season. Clayton Crofoot ’09 was the kick holder in all 12 games for Auburn and defensive tackle Sam Sledge ’09 played in every game for Baylor. Safety Josh Powers ’11 of 6-4 Pennsylvania was second with three interceptions and ranked seventh with 36 tackles. His twin brother, Nate Powers ’11, got into six contests as a defensive back.

Playing on special teams for Indiana were wide receiver Collin Taylor ’09 and tight end Taylor Donnell ’10.

Carnegie Mellon, with 58 Betas, was led by co-captain/defensive end Clay Crites ’09, an ESPN The Magazine College Division Academic All-American first team. Also an All-University Athletic Association first team, he was third with 64 tackles. Linebacker Aleksey Tigay ’10 was an All-UAA first team and second with 75 tackles, while All-UAA second team linebacker Socrates Zacharias ’10 had 60 stops. Earning All-UAA honorable mention were co-captain/back Steve McGovern ’09, back Jake Cundiff ’09 and linebacker Dan Falkenstein ’09. Other defenders were back Josh Kreske ’10, linebacker Stanley Onyimba ’10, safety Chris Luther ’11, linebacker Mike Shedlosky ’11 and backs Brandon Van Tassel ’10 and Daniel Miller ’12.

All-UAA performers on offense for Carnegie Mellon were first team center Ramsey Arnold ’09, second team back Ryan Phillips ’09 and receiver Brendan Howe ’10, and honorable mention guard Dan Boljonis ’09. Punter Richard Pattison ’11 had 34 boots for a 42.1 average and was on the All-UAA first team. Also seeing action were quarterback Phil Pantalone ’10; starting linemen Kurtis Meyer ’10, Sean Kennedy ’10 and Chris Donlon ’10; running backs Gregory Pitts ’09 and Andy Lovrovich ’10; guard Ryan Chehanske ’10, and wide receiver Patrick O’Brien ’11.

NCAA Division III leader in receptions per game was Tyler Thiems ’09. He set a Hanover season mark with 117 receptions for 1,025 yards and 10 TDs. He ranked eighth in receiving yards per game (113.89) and was a member of the All-Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference first team. He was also named HCAC Special Teams Most Valuable Player with 15 punt returns for a 12.5 average and 11 kickoff returns for a 13.6 average. Teammate Bobby Smart ’09 gained All-HCAC second team honors at tight end after catching 36 balls for 458 yards and four TDs. Wide receiver Chris Gasbarra ’09 of 8-2 DePauw caught 26 passes for 264 yards and gained All-Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference mention.

Clay Crites

Carnegie Mellon ’09

Aleksey Tigay

Carnegie Mellon ’10

Linebacker Darryl Kennon ’09 of the 10-2 Wabash playoff team was named North Coast Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. He had 38 tackles, including 14 for losses, and six sacks. Defensive back Addrian Frederick ’10 won All-NCAC second team honors. He led the team with six interceptions, deflected eight passes and made 30 tackles. Other key players were All-NCAC honorable mention tight end Chad Sorenson ’10, wide receiver Andrew Rode ’09, back Ryan Pilli ’09, lineman Patrick Long ’09 and backs Brent Banach ’09 and Tommy Mambourg ’11.

Running back Kyle Toot ’10 of Kenyon rushed 273 times for 1,280 yards and 10 TDs on the way to All-NCAC first team honors. He ranked 19th in NCAA Division III and added 15 catches for 135 yards. Offensive tackle Yancy Edwards ’09 was on the All-NCAC first team for the second straight year and offensive guard Paul Bogonis ’09 gained All-NCAC honorable mention. Quarterback Mike Hermanson ’10 completed 176 of 314 for 1,830 yards and 15 Winter 2009

29

Sports R Tighe Burke

Knox ’09

Darryl Kennon Wabash ’09

touchdowns while ranking second with 571 rushing yards and six TDs. Other key starters for Kenyon were linebacker Evan Ray ’10, back Brian Kelso ’10 and linemen Brian Zistler ’10, Terry Johnson ’10 and Dan Gajewski ’10.

Co-captain/defensive end Tighe Burke ’09 of Knox was on the All-Midwest Conference first team. He had 54 tackles, including 14 sacks for 104 yards in losses and forced four fumbles.

Other tackling leaders were linebackers Aaron Juarez ’10, Marty Dertz ’09 and Kevin Beck ’11.

Back Jordan Raess ’10 had 47 stops and is a co-captain for next season. Linebacker George Nicholson ’10 had 39 tackles and recovered three fumbles. Back Danny Salvato ’11 had 21 tackles and 10 kickoff returns for a 21.6 average. Other defenders were back Danny Stafford ’11 and lineman Joe Garbin ’10.

30

The Beta Theta Pi

Knox running back Dan Kizior ’11 gained 424 yards and won All-MWC second team honors. He also ran back 21 kickoffs for a 19.6 average. Offensive lineman Bradley Becque ’08 gained All-MWC mention and wide receiver Derek LaRosa ’10 led with 20 catches for 216 yards. Back Grant Guimond ’09 rushed for 266 yards and four scores while returning seven kickoffs for a 20.6 average. Kyle Gordon ’10 also contributed to the Knox offense. Two Westminster defensive backs gained AllSt. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

Roundup mention. Kyle Wagner ’09 broke up 12 passes, had five interceptions and made 30 tackles.

Alex Ploesser ’10 had 33 stops picked off two passes. Teammate Chad Shank ’09 was third with 28 catches for 397 yards and seven touchdowns.

OTHER SPORTS

Having a break-through year on the 2008 PGA Tour was Steve Marino, Virginia ’02, who finished 36th in total earnings with more than $2 million over 32 tournaments. Scott McCarron,

Leading Sewanee in rushing was Trey Reliford ’10, who had 454 yards and four TDs. Linebacker Dave Brustein ’10 had 11 tackles in three games for Wesleyan before being injured.

Leading the 5-2 Pennsylvania sprint football team were three Betas. All-CSFL second team lineman John Curran ’09 had 28 tackles and team bests of 13 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Gaining All-CSFL mention were linemen Christian Corrigan ’09 and Zak Klinvek ’11, both of whom had 24 tackles. Among Beta head coaches, Mike Sanford, Southern California ’78, led his Nevada-Las Vegas squad to an improved 5-7 record in his fourth season at the helm. Also completing his fourth season since returning to his alma mater as head coach was Buddy Teevens, Dartmouth ’79.

CROSS COUNTRY

At the Atlantic-10 Conference meet, Rob Lockhart ’10 of George Washington placed 70th with an 8K time of 26:25.2. Donavan White ’12 of Wabash placed 25th (26:03.90) at the NCAC meet and had a time of 26:35.17 at the NCAA Division III Great Lakes Regional. Jay Devineni ’12 of Missouri-Kansas City placed 59th (28:23.9) at the Missouri State Classic and ran in the NCAA Midwest 10K Regional.

Teammate Alex Lopez ’11 was 30th (29:10.5) at the Missouri State meet and 46th (27:31.1) at the Summit League meet.

Three Knox runners saw action. Ryan Maniscalco ’09 placed 16th at the Pioneer Open, 17th (27:57) at the Forrester Invitational and 60th at the MWC meet. Avi Segaloff ’10 ran in seven meets and had a best 8K time of 27:49.33 while teammate Christopher Bugalski ’10 also ran in seven events. Robert Melvin ’10 was the top Hampden-Sydney finisher (27:35) placing 34th at the Old Dominion Athletic Conference event. He was also second at the Tribe Open and 12th (28:10) at the Roanoke Maroon meet. Mark Sprtel ’09 of Lawrence placed 56th at the MWC meet; ran a best time of 27:01 at the UW-Oshkosh Invitational and had a 27:22.5 clocking at the DIII Midwest Regional meet.

Steve Marino

Virginia ’02

www.pgatour.com

UCLA ’88, had his best year since 2005, placing 91st with a money total of $952,070. Batting injury problems once again was Brandt Jobe, UCLA ’88, whose earnings of $293,214 in 19 tournaments placed him 183rd on the PGA Tour.

Leading all NCAA water polo goalies in saves per game was John Todd ’10 of Washington & Jefferson, who posted 340 saves in 27 contests, including a school record 30 saves versus Harvard. Teammate Steve Hilty ’10 ranked 31st nationally with 56 goals in 27 games and Eddie Werner ’09 was named to the Eastern Water Polo Championships AllTournament first team. Also contributing to the Washington & Jefferson squad were Chris Bleuher ’10 and William Kidston ’10. Winning All-Northwest Conference mention in soccer was midfielder Jordan Droppert ’09 of the 11-2-7 Whitman squad. Second in scoring for the 8-4-6 DePauw soccer team was midfielder Brian Lawless ’10, who had 15 starts. Also playing were teammates Josh Schlake ’11 and Gary Pett ’11. — Jay Langhammer

John Todd

Washington & Jefferson ’10

Steve Hilty

Washington & Jefferson ’10

Winter 2009

31

[Mystic Shrine]

In Loving Memory Alabama

Moorer, James D. ’78, Sept. 13 Nelson, Bruce R. ’69, Oct. 16 Riley, Aubrey V. ’66, Dec. 4

Beloit

Gedge, Charles H. ’43, Sept. 9 Hamilton, Raymond N. Jr. ’56, Nov. 8 Hough, Albert R. ’42, Oct. 27

Bethany

Dumbaugh, William C. ’48, Nov. 14 Pryor, Dayton E. ’52, Nov. 26 Arbour, Hector R. ’66, Nov. 29, 2007

Hawes, Albert C. Jr. ’55, April 9 Noonan, James G. III ’59, Jan. 9

Cincinnati

Steffens, David G. ’51, Oct. 15, 2007

Colgate

Bogle, William F. Sr. ’45, Jan. 30, 2008 Hannah. Richard M. M.D. ’46, June 5 Midkiff, J. William ’49, Nov. 26, 2007 Rhee, Roger S. ’58, Jan. 9, 2008

Denver

Birkedahl, Walter J. ’44, Sept. 26

DePauw

Mohr, William F. ’49, Oct. 10

Dickinson

Auman, Theodore C. III ’57, Nov. 9

Duke

Kusturiss, Michael E. ’50, Oct. 11

Colorado

Georgia Tech

Beckett, Melvin D. ’50, Dec. 25, 2007 Trietsch, Paul E. Jr. ’53, Sept. 4

MacDonald, Herron M. Jr. ’40, Nov. 9 McNally, John F. ’44, Aug. 10

Colorado Mines

Hanover

Zimmer, Robert E. ’44, Oct. 20

Satterly, Donald V. ’55, Nov. 30

Hooker, William E. ’33, July 4 Menzies, Austin F. ’34, Dec. 10, 2007

Columbia

Idaho

Carnegie Mellon

Cornell

British Columbia

Feaver, George A. ’59, May 12

California, Los Angeles

Kelley, Zachary T. ’11, Oct. 4

Case Tech

Lund, William H. ’46, Sept. 27 Ritter, Roy C. Jr. ’54, Aug. 12

32

Centre

The Beta Theta Pi

Bashaar, John R. ’65, Oct. 5

Bolton, John R. ’56, July 2 Seidlitz, John R. ’45, April 7

Dartmouth

Hannigan, Judson Jr. ’46, Feb. 22, 2008

Butterfield, Samuel H. ’49, Oct. 31 Day, Ernest E. ’41, Feb. 12, 2008 Kleffner, Robert S. ’53, Feb. 6, 2008

Indiana

Pfenninger, Paul F. ’45, Aug. 27

Iowa

Bordwell, Paul D. ’43, Aug. 3 Pang, Steven J. ’85, Dec. 4

Iowa State

Pederson, Russell J. ’47, Sept. 1 Shaw Van, John W. ’49, Sept. 27, 2007

Kansas

Neustrom, Robert T. ’47, July 11 Wick, Curtis R. ’47, Aug. 16

Kansas State

Carpenter, Harold E. ’40, Sept. 4 Prentice, Frank R. ’41, Sept. 18

Lawrence

Sopanen, Jeri M. ’52, Sept. 21 Wilson, John V. (Jack) ’55, Nov. 3

Maine

Oklahoma

Cook, Judge H. Dale ’46, Sept. 22 Hall, Mark R. ’91, Sept. 28 McGee, William M. ’52, Nov. 25 Martin, Wilfred W. Jr. (Bill) ’48, Dec. 2 Murphey, Robert L. ’42, Oct. 12 Reid, John A. ’50, Sept. 12

Oklahoma State Wickizer, Carl L. ’54, Oct. 1

Oregon

Groff, Jack P. ’50, Aug. 27

Oregon State

Cook, Christopher R. (Chris) ’86, Nov. 7

Gray, Norman A. ’49, Dec. 15, 2007 Ryan, Kevin J. ’82, Sept. 12, 2007 Twaddel, Vaughn ’51, Nov. 10

Penn State

Miami

Pepperdine

Beneke, Jack ’46, Sept. 14 Falke, Leo J. ’38, May 20 Smith, Lowell E. ’48, Aug. 11

Minnesota

Thiesse, Elmer E. ’51, Sept. 12

Caldwell, Henry A. ’48, Aug. 29 Snell, Charles B. Jr. ’48, Jan. 16, 2008

Rivinoja, Clark M. ’01, March 13

Purdue

Fletcher, William F. ’47, Aug. 6 Willson, William D. Jr. ’51, Oct. 27

Rutgers

Vanderbilt

Mefford, Lewis R. Jr. ’55, April 13

Wabash

Byerrum, Richard U. ’42, Sept. 28

Washington

Frost, Jack W. ’41, Nov. 12 Hungar, Dr. Gordon E. ’48, April 29 Sorenson, Dwight C. ’57, Aug. 9 Yantis, George F. Jr. ’39, April 30

Washington in St. Louis

Orthwein, James B. ’46, Aug. 16

Washington & Jefferson

Custer, Herman L. ’49, Dec. 4, 2007 Langol, Dr. George Jr. ’56, Sept. 13

Washington and Lee White, Robert M. II ’38, Nov. 20

Wesleyan

Conrad, Donald G. ’52, Aug. 8 Hartzell, Karl D. ’27, Dec. 8

Loesch, Buchanan ’41, July 4

Bowers, Dr. Louis V. ’52, Sept. 21 Mathis, Aaron L. ’55, Dec. 4, 2007

West Virginia

Nebraska

St. Lawrence

Westminster

MIT

Pillsbury, Dr. Curtis B. ’44, May 11 Stoddart, James P. ’44, March 25

North Carolina

Gundlach, George B. ’42, March 10

North Dakota

Pierce, Ralph L. ’34, May 24

Northwestern

Conrad, Donald G. ’52, Aug. 9 Ferguson, Thomas M. ’58, July 9 Freeman, A. Norman ’35, Oct. 30 Gridley, Daniel S. ’46, July 31

Ohio State

Botley, Robert D. ’43, March 28 Poffenberger, Dr. Earl D. ’62, Oct. 23, 2007

Ohio Wesleyan

Schanely, Russell ’53, July 23

Cashin, Thomas H. ’44, Aug. 13 Moore, Richard L. ’67, Sept. 6, 2007 Vosburgh, Kenneth V. ’56, Sept. 3, 2007

South Dakota

Brown, William S. ’42, Nov. 18 Manolis, George N. ’52, Sept. 29

Texas

Lupher, Bill L.’46, Sept. 23, 2007 Schleier, Robert G. ’50, Aug. 1

Tulane

Brent, Walter H. M.D. ’42, Nov. 30 Latimer, Erik M. ’94, June 4 Spearman, Benjamin L. Jr. ’38, March 10

Union

Calhoun, Joseph H. M.D. ’58, Nov. 17

Anderson, Glenn F. Jr. ’48, Feb. 10, 2008 Barnes, Robert W. ’43, April 18 Booth, A. Lee Jr. ’50, March 16 Cannon, John F. III ’49, May 8 Conine, Michael A. ’59, Dec. 6, 2007 Marsh, John W. ’49, Sept. 12 Steele, Donald F. ’34, July 22

Whitman

Kindred, Jack D. ’57, April 16

Wichita State

Garrison, Michael E. ’63, Sept. 20 Greenleaf, James A. ’73, March 3

Williams

Copeland, Frederick C. ’35, Feb. 8, 2008

Peek, George W. ’63, May 4 Vieira, Richard E. ’73, Sept. 25

Wisconsin

Utah

Yale

Foote, Charles H. ’54, Sept. 27

Huffman, William F. ’50, March 1

Chisholm, Frank A. ’32, June 9 Galland, Richard I. ’37, Nov. 27

Winter 2009

33

[A Principled Life] Become the Example

by Kevin George, Dayton ’10

all have, at one point in time, needed help in a class, but can we expect to receive assistance from others if we are not the example first?

We simply cannot expect to receive help without first giving of ourselves.

This kind of giving defines my principled life of as leader. Through my experience as scholarship chairman and vice president of the Dayton Colony, and now as IFC president, I have learned that leading is best done by serving. Being invested in the interests and passions of others, allows me to be personally dedicated to the organization. When others are invested, I have found that not only do they work better for themselves, but they work better for you. It is this attribute that has given those groups a unique and personal experience.

“What does it mean to live as a man of principle?”

S

ince my introduction to Beta Theta Pi, I have been continually challenged by the question, “What does it mean to live as a man of principle?” This question cannot be answered in words or phrases, but through the constant evaluation of one’s self and the fulfillment of what the question asks. Our daily lives provide us with unique experiences and ways to live out the answers to this question. My answers are personified in my interpretation of a principled life as a student, leader, friend, and brother of Beta Theta Pi. As a student, I am always being tested and evaluated by my professors and peers.

The majority of professors outline their expectations in a syllabus. Living up to their expectations set in the classroom are relatively easy compared to living out a principled life with my peers. I do my best to help, whether by studying for a test with a friend or checking my roommate’s paper. We

Most importantly, how do I live a principled life as a friend and brother? The answer is to be true to myself. I find that this answer is the easiest to formulate, but often the hardest to live out. Friendship and brotherhood have come with my own expectations, as well as the expectations of others that I feel obligated to fulfill. Being true to myself is the give-andtake of these expectations. Actually living this out, however, requires discipline and persistence.

We all encounter unique circumstances in answering the question, “What does it mean to live as a man of principle?” All of us might not answer the question the same way. My best understanding of how to lead a principled life is to follow the golden rule, “Treat others how you would like to be treated.” It is through this that we can give to others, lead with an invested heart and be true to ourselves.”

Do you know what it means to live a principled life? Send your thoughts to alex.hammel@betathetapi.org. Your essay could be printed in a future issue.

34

The Beta Theta Pi

A Lasting Moment

L

As I reflect on serving as a facilitator for the inaugural Institute for Men of Principle 10 years ago, I have a lot of memories and emotions. I mostly recall feelings of fear and excitement.

Would the participants buy-in to a values-based curriculum? Would they be open to non-Beta facilitators? Women facilitators? While it seems unbelievable now, these were real questions at the time. Fortunately, the answer to all of them was “Yes!” Ten years later, the emotions I feel are pride and inspiration. Pride and inspiration in being associated with a program that not only positively changes the lives of its participants, but also positively impacts chapters, Greek communities, universities and communities. I cannot wait to see the impact of The Wooden Institute in another 10 years. I truly believe Betas and those they influence will change our businesses, communities, governments, educational

institutions and communities, for the better. Beta Theta Pi is changing the world!

I, too, have changed as a result of The Wooden Institute. Each year has brought deeper personal understanding and greater commitment to those things I value most. Each year, great friendships are formed at The Wooden Institute and attending Beta Theta Pi’s General Convention has become a reunion for me and so many others to reinforce those commitments and bonds; both fraternal and interfraternal.

Thank you, Beta Theta Pi, for including me in this journey. I am honored and proud to be part of it.

Steve Dealph is a long-serving Friend of Beta. A member of Lambda Chi Alpha and former director of Greek Life for Miami University, Dealph regularly serves as a facilitator for Beta’s leadership development programs.

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

“we are

WEAVING THE FUTURE

on the loom of today” – Grace Dawson

It’s that time of the year again – when the Beta Foundation looks to the larger Beta family for help in providing sponsorships for hundreds of young Betas who will seek to participate in the internationally acclaimed John and Nellie Wooden Institute and Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge during summer 2009.

Help strengthen the fabric of Beta’s future by providing a sponsorship today!

www.betathetapi.org/gift

10 YEAR

ANNIVERSARY

Men of Principle B E T A

T H E T A

P I