The Beta Theta Pi Magazine (Winter 2007)

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BETA THETA PI M

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PENN STATE

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Behind the Renovation

2007 Winter Issue

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vo l u n t e e r

SHARE WHAT YOU BELIEVE “Watching leaders emerge through and beyond their collegiate years... has given me the greatest joy.”

Tina Horvath Chapter Counselor Southern Illinois

Professional:

Coordinator of Residence Life, SIU-Carbondale

Alma Mater:

Time. It is what undergraduates need the most of from their alumni and chapter advisors, but it is often the most difficult asset to share. We are all busy people and the success of a chapter takes more than a willingness to be involved.

Eastern Illinois

Degree(s):

1993 - Bachelor in Arts Communication Disorders 1997 - Master of Science Education Administration and Higher Education 2007 - Doctor of Philosophy Education Administration and Higher Education

Greek Affiliation: Delta Delta Delta

Hobbies:

“Taking care of my two families: the one at home and my Beta boys.”

Rather, such success is dependent on cultivating relationships, understanding chapter dynamics and providing purposeful direction. The relationship between a chapter and its advisors, however, must be mutually beneficial and the chapter must understand your level of commitment to them, theirs to you and additional priorities in your life. As a chapter counselor, it has been my privilege to give time and energy to an organization that sets the standards for academic excellence and leadership

among men in the Greek and University communities. I have been humbled by the generosity and kindness that the gentlemen of Beta Theta Pi have shown me. The pleasure of watching leaders emerge through and beyond their collegiate years as Betas, while maintaining their dignity and integrity in the face of adversity, has given me the greatest joy. Not only have I been given granted opportunities to enhance my professional skill set, but I have also witnessed the strong character of the Fraternity from events such as the John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle and the Chapter President’s Leadership Academy. - T. Horvath


The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/Vol. 134/No. 3

Cover Story:

24 The Keystone Home

Through tremendous kindness, hard-work and a $3.5 million gift, the Penn State Chapter took its house and made it a home again.

[Winter Contents] FEATURES 9 22

The Shepardson Award

Beta’s second administrative secretary honored for his lifelong dedication

Who was Major Ransom?

Forgotten but not lost, Major Ransom’s legacy echoes across the ages

20 Departments 2 4 5 6 10 12 14 16 18 30 45 46 50 51

Volunteer From the Editor Letters to the Editor News and Notes Marching Along Alumni News Center Stage Books by Betas Sports Round Up Campus Life By the Numbers Mystic Shrine The Last Word A Lasting Moment

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The Colonels Return

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The Sky is the Limit

Delta Xi at Eastern Kentucky celebrates its 35th anniversary and a triumphant return to campus.

After 35 years of exceeding expectations, Delta Rho at Texas-Arlington reunites for its largest anniversary to date.

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. Winter 2007

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[From the Editor] Escaping From Someday Isle

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lancing out my office window at the courtyard in front of the Hall of the Chapters, my mind carelessly drifts from the snow-covered branches bending down to the frozen ground and the day’s sub-zero temperatures toward a vision of a warmer climate. Wouldn’t it be grand to be lounging on a quiet beach somewhere, perhaps in the Caribbean? I can almost hear the sound of the crashing waves as my skin is warmed by the island sun. Ahh . . . Brrrr! A chill sends a shiver down my spine, and I immediately snap out of the daydream and back to reality. It dawns on me that in some deep, philosophical way, I am living on an Illustration by Roger Warrick island. It’s not the warm, care-free place I dream of on a cold, winter’s day, but rather a cold, dismal place that is keeping me from my dreams. Can that be? I’m not exactly sure who coined the phrase, but the image conjured up by the idea of “living on Someday Isle” resonates with me. “Someday, I’ll read that book . . . Someday, I’ll volunteer . . . Someday, I’ll start saving for retirement . . .” Someday Islanders are dreamers who forget about the essential ingredient of action when following the recipe for an engaged and meaningful life. Procrastination has the tendency to steal our dreams right out from under us. Without even noticing, our “Somedays” quickly become our “Yesterdays” and by then, it’s usually too late. Perhaps the American motivational speaker and author, Denis Waitley said it best. “Procrastination is the fear of success. People procrastinate because they are afraid of the success that they know will result if they move ahead now. Because success is heavy and carries a responsibility with it, it is much easier to procrastinate and live on the ‘someday I’ll’ philosophy.” Are you living on “Someday Isle?” We all have that specific journey we have yet to embark on, the dream that goes unfulfilled, that goal desperately waiting for action. Radindranath Tagore, the Indian poet, playwright and essayist once remarked, “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” It’s time to take action! We’ve been lounging on the beach of mediocrity for too long. It’s time to escape from Someday Isle and embark on the journey, fulfill the dream and accomplish your goals. Do so by identifying your passion, learning as much as you can about it, finding a way to serve and giving it all you can. Every single day. Confucius wrote, “When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals . . . adjust the action steps.” He also said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. A single step. Put your shoes on, my friend . . . let’s take a walk. — T. Olver

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The Beta Theta Pi

BETA THETA PI FRATERNITY Founded 1839, Miami University BOARD OF TRUSTEES

GENERAL SECRETARY

David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67

PRESIDENT

P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63

GENERAL TREASURER

Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86

VICE PRESIDENTS

John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56 Kenneth J. Gripsin, Rutgers ’70 W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 Joseph M. Troncale, Alabama ’63 Charles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87

BETA THETA PI FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

W.H. (Bert) Bates, Missouri ’49 James J. Ellis, Missouri ’55 Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82 Garland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52 Thomas W. Hook, Miami ’81 S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73 Jeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96 Lynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 Charles O. McCormick III, Indiana ’72 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 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS MacGregor H. Hill II, William & Mary ’04

Associate Editor

Steven M. Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Sarah Shepherd

CONTRIBUTORS

Phyllis Bowie; Jay Langhammer; Erica Suding

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 Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring 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, 2006. Produced in the USA.

DEADLINES Summer 2007 ....................................................... May 15 Fall 2007 ...........................................................August 15 Winter 2008 ................................................November 15 Spring 2008 .................................................. February 15 FOUNDATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Brennan Hall Postmaster: 5134 Bonham Road Send address P.O. Box 6277 changes to: Oxford, Ohio 45056 Beta Theta Pi Tel: 513-523-7591 P.O. Box 6277 Fax: 513-523-2381 Oxford, OH 45056 beta@betathetapi.org www.betathetapi.org


[Letters to the Editor] Biased Journalism?

I was stunned to see Ken Lay get a quarter of a page and color picture of him elaborating on his wondrous career but neglecting to mention how he helped devastate the retirement of so many people, some of them probably Betas who worked for Enron. — Dr. William F. McCulloch, Iowa State ’54 You made a serious mistake in lauding the passing of Beta Ken Lay (page 67, fall 2006 issue.) This man was a convicted felon who used his position of leadership and authority at Enron to steal from employees and shareholders. There is nothing about this man or his career that suggests that he was a man of principle or possessed the leadership characteristics for which Beta Theta Pi is striving. — C. Clinton Bolte, Georgia Tech ’67 I feel that the obsequious obituary to Kenneth Lay in the fall 2006 “Mystic Shrine” was most inappropriate. This is based on the fact that he was one of the biggest crooks in American history who caused thousands of Enron employees and retirees to lose their life savings. I was sorry to learn that he was a Beta. I was also very sorry that he died before serving one day in prison. — Bruce P. Christensen, Westminster ’67 Scanning the obituaries in the most recent issue of the magazine, I was rather amazed to find Ken Lay prominently featured as a benevolent philanthropist. This has to be particularly insulting to those former employees of Enron who lost their jobs and pensions, some of whom were no doubt Betas. This can hardly be characterized as unbiased journalism. Unless his entire legacy is mentioned, Ken Lay should have been entitled to a one-liner in the obituary column, nothing more. — G. Stanley Collyer, Duke ’54 Editor’s note: Several readers shared comments regarding the coverage of Mr. Lay’s death in The Beta Theta Pi magazine. Ultimately, we elected to include the obituary in the fall issue as it was prepared by his family and published in newspapers and magazines throughout North America without further editorial comment. The intent was not to highlight the behaviors or practices that led to the collapse of the Enron Corporation, but rather to note the passing of a now infamous personality. Lay was convicted of fraud and conspiracy in May 2006. The charge was voided by a federal judge following Lay’s death last July.

New and Improved on the Rise

The Beta Theta Pi magazine I received a couple days ago is the best one I’ve ever seen. I like the arrangement, I like the idea of the recognition of people at the various service levels . . . I liked everything about it. I read it from cover to cover. It’s the best I’ve ever seen. I thought it was wonderful. Keep up the good work! — L. Walter Helmreich, MIT ’40 Excellent magazine for online reading (www.thebetathetapi.org.) Sure beats the heck out of a paper magazine. — Bradley J. Bennett, Wisconsin ’73 I just wanted to let you know that I definitely like the latest addition of the podcasts. It has proven to be an exceptionally easy way to keep up with what is going on without having to take a great deal of time to search through previous headlines. — Peter E. Stevenson, Furman ’05

Recolonization

Congratulations on the (University of Southern California) recolonization. I will look forward to seeing the Fraternity getting back involved in the USC family life as one of its leading fraternities on the row. It has a great tradition in that regard and I am sure you will be looking for men of principle to lead you back. Good Luck! — Stan Smith, Southern California ’69

True Celebration of Beta

I want to express my deepest appreciation for your invitation and hospitality during the recent Southwest Ohio Alumni Appreciation Dinner. It was a wonderful event and a true celebration of Beta Theta Pi’s investment in creating a value-added experience for the undergraduate affiliates of the Fraternity. Your mission of “developing leaders of integrity who enable positive action, accountability and personal development among members of their chapters, Greek communities and the General Fraternity” says it all. I know this is the historic commitment of Beta and many other international fraternal organizations. However, through its fund-raising and creative initiatives, Beta is distinguishing itself as the fraternal organization that brings its philosophical commitment to reality. — Dennis C. Roberts, Ph.D., associate vice president for student affairs, Miami University

Winter 2007

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[News & Notes] Academics Spring 4.0s* Arizona Travis Berg ’07 Daniel Bollum ’07 Mathew Gugliuzza ’06 Brett Jastrow ’06 Garrett Munro ’06 Daniel Shelby ’06 Jan Weichsel ’09 Auburn Mitchell Alvarez ’09 Scott Barry ’08 Mark Chuckney ’10 Ben Davidson ’07 Brian Dilworth ’08 Nick Gonzalez ’07 Tom Hall ’07 John Rives ’08 Alex Smith ’09 British Columbia Christopher Carrique ’07 Scott Woron ’07 California-Los Angeles David Gluckman ’08 Ryan Hall ’07 Eastern Kentucky Donald Bell ’08 Andy Bender ’08 Bryan Botts ’07 Steve Caudill ’08 Jeremy Kelly ’09 Josh Turner ’07 Illinois Grant Deppen ’06 John Garnello ’06 Pepperdine Paul Weidman ’08 Truman State Joey Buterbaugh ’08 Duke Campbell ’07 Dane Guempel ’08 Joey Higgins ’09 Mike Hoeh ’06 Adam Hoskins ’08 Peter Howe ’06 Ryan Huber ’08 Gabe Koenig ’07 Bill Leeds ’06 Sam Murphey ’06 Sam Prescott ’07 Kenneth Lee Raby III ’08 Ben Reine ’08 Paul Rotert ’08 Brian Snyders ’07 Joe Stauber ’08 John Sturgeon ’08 Ryan Wills ’07 Washington in St. Louis Robby Boyer ’06 Josh Faust ’06 Alex Reich ’06 David Skillman ’07 Western Ontario Brooker Belcourt ’08 Raheem Jindani ’07 Dave Phelan ’08 Wisconsin Jeffrey Johnson ’07

*Reported after the fall 2006 issue went to press. 6

The Beta Theta Pi

Third Annual Leadership Summit Inspires General Fraternity Volunteers The third annual Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit, held at Brennan Hall in Oxford, Ohio, January 12-13, provided an opportunity for all district chiefs and regional directors to meet in Oxford to focus on the future of the Fraternity. During the two-day conference, 73 participants discussed Beta Theta Pi’s strategic direction, volunteer recruitment, risk management, positive pledge education assessment and leadership experiences offered through the General Fraternity. Thanks to the success of Upon These Principles: a Campaign for Every Beta and the generosity of James J. Ellis, Missouri ’55, and his wife Van, the Leadership Summit is named in honor of past General Fraternity president and Oxford Cup recipient, Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr., Missouri ’43. The fourth annual Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit is slated for January 2008.

Presidents Academy Honored During the 2006 Association of Fraternity Advisors Annual Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, Beta Theta Pi received the Excellence in Educational Programming Award from the Association of Fraternity Advisors. The award recognizes fraternal organizations for their educational programming efforts. Beta Theta Pi’s Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Academy provides an opportunity for all chapter and colony presidents to travel to the founding site of the Fraternity in Oxford, Ohio, for three days of intense activity and discussion with other undergraduate leaders across North America. This innovative program concentrates on personal and leadership development to assist all of Beta’s chapter and colony presidents to become the most capable leaders possible. The program was highly rated for furthering the personal and development of participants and for creating lasting behavioral change. The Association of Fraternity Advisors (AFA) is a professional organization that represents more than 1,400 fraternity and sorority professionals from across the United States and Canada.


Becker to Accept New Post in Toronto Administrative Secretary Stephen B. Becker, Florida ’69 has announced that he will conclude his professional service with the Beta Theta Pi Administrative Office in early 2007 to accept a position as senior associate with Ross W. Marsh & Associates, a consulting firm located in Calgary, Alberta. Becker will open a Toronto office to service Ontario clients in the health care, education and social services sectors. The Board of Trustees will implement a process to identify candidates for the position of administrative secretary, with the intent of having a successor in place in 2007. Questions regarding the process should be directed to General Secretary David W. Wright.

USC Breaks Record with 83 Men Beta Theta Pi’s recordbreaking return to the University of Southern California is drawing significant attention. An October issue of the campus newspaper The Daily Trojan ran a story of the re-colonization on the front page. With 83 founding fathers, the Gamma Tau Colony is certainly headline worthy as an overwhelming success and a record-breaking expansion for USC and the Fraternity. The founding father class consists of 22 freshmen, 27 sophomores, 25 juniors and nine seniors. They have an average cumulative GPA (excluding freshmen) in excess of 3.25 and are very involved on campus. The re-colonization was led by a fourman recruitment team consisting of Leadership Consultant Josh Fairchild, Oklahoma State ’05; Directors of Operations and Education Dustin Anderson, Minnesota ’05 and Michael Wolford, Miami ’04, and Leadership Consultant David Schmidt, Connecticut ’06. The team was on campus recruiting for more than three weeks in October.

Fraternity Unveils New Magazine Website The Beta Theta Pi is the longest, continuously published magazine in the fraternal world; however, Charles D. Walker, V.M.I. 1869 couldn’t possibly have envisioned the World Wide Web when he printed the first issue on December 15, 1872. Today, 134 years later, the Fraternity is proud to present a new web site for The Beta Theta Pi magazine at www.thebetathetapi.org that will include feature articles and departments from the latest printed issue of the magazine. General Fraternity, chapter and individual news updates will be provided throughout the year, as well as additional photos, audio, links and much more! This new web site is intended to supplement the print edition of the magazine, which will continue to be provided to Betas and Friends of Beta on a quarterly basis: winter, spring, summer and fall. If you have not been receiving the magazine on a regular basis and would like to, email your request to beta@betathetapi.org or call 800-800-BETA.

Fraternity Releases New Podcast The Beta Theta Pi Magazine Podcast is a new venture offering the latest news and information on the Fraternity. Hosted by director of communications and editor of The Beta Theta Pi magazine, Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98, the program includes General Fraternity Headlines, News & Notes, Campus Life, Marching Along, interviews and more. Podcasts will be released on alternate Mondays and are available for download at www. thebetathetapi.org. The podcast can also be found on iTunes.

Beta Takes University of Miami by Storm In April 2006, the University of Miami Interfraternity Council invited Beta Theta Pi to expand to campus last fall. The results of that invitation have proved overwhelmingly successful with a poignant energy permeating campus and the third largest expansion in Fraternity history. The new colony boasts 63 founding fathers assembled from the top gentlemen, scholars and leaders on campus. The class makeup is four seniors, 11 juniors, 24 sophomores and 26 freshmen. The collective GPA of the members is an astounding 3.61 (4.107 with freshmen) with seven valedictorians, seven eagle scouts, two NCAA athletes, six resident assistants and more. Leadership Consultant Joe Kokojan, Oklahoma ’06, along with Director of Expansion and Recruitment J.B. Scherpelz, Miami ’05; Leadership Consultant Phil Fernandez, Miami ’05, and Leadership Consultant Russell Katigan, Oklahoma State ’06 led the 24-day recruitment period ending October 18th with the founding father class induction. The team was also supported by a nine-person advisory team and superb University and campus support. Winter 2007

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Orlando, Florida 168th General Convention

Fan the Flame

“Alere Flammam”

The General Convention is an annual family reunion, uniting Betas — young and old — and Friends of Beta from around the world. Welcome together each summer to celebrate Beta Theta Pi and chart the course for the future of our Great and Good Fraternity. In addition to the unparalleled brotherhood and fellowship, you’ll have an opportunity to visit Universal’s Islands of Adventure or play a round of golf at the majestic Grande Pines Golf Club. Orlando is the epicenter of fun and excitement, providing a mix of legendary theme parks, spectacular museums, 168 golf courses, world-class entertainment, and blockbuster rides and attractions. Undergraduates will be inspired through The Peter F. Greiner Leadership College where strong emphasis is placed on team-building, motivation, personal values, leading with integrity and the importance of collaboration. General Fraternity officers and chapter delegates will conduct the important business of the Fraternity, paving the way for success in the coming year. Join us at the newly-renovated Renaissance Orlando resort at SeaWorld, August 2-5, 2007, as Beta Theta Pi offers plenty of memorable experiences for the whole family. To receive the early bird discount, register before April 1 at www.betathetapi.org.

“A peculiar characteristic of our Fraternity is the strong attachment evinced toward it by those who are no longer active members. To foster this spirit is a matter of prime importance to us. We take pride in their success in life, and look to them as our examples. They are bound to us and have the noble responsibility of setting such examples as may be worthy of our imitation.” — Charles D. Walker, V.M.I. 1869

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The Beta Theta Pi


~ Shepardson

Award ~

Frederick F. Brower, Miami ’50

The prestigious Francis Wayland Shepardson award was bestowed upon Frederick F. Brower, Miami ’50 (pictured on the right in the photo to the left.), at a General Fraternity Alumni Appreciation Dinner held in Oxford, Ohio, October 28. Brower served as the Fraternity’s second administrative secretary (1958-65) and 16th general treasurer (1967-70), and is an oft-consulted member of the Advisory Council of former trustees.

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rower was initiated into the Alpha Chapter as a sophomore on March 13, 1948, first in a class of 10. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps upon graduation in June 1950 and was wounded in Korea early in 1951. After hospitalization, he returned to combat duty before being reassigned to Parris Island as a recruitcompany commander. Brower gained management experience in being placed in charge of the base officers’ club, which included a large hotel operation. Later, he became commander of the Marine detachment aboard the carrier U.S.S. Tarawa, serving through its world cruise. Released as a captain in August 1955, he returned to Miami University for graduate study toward a career in real estate sales and property management. Brower married Mary Jane Hugh, a Miami member of Alpha Omicron Pi, in June 1956. The position of Beta Theta Pi administrative secretary had been created as a job to be filled on a parttime basis, for about five years, by a bright young man who would move on after gaining maturity and experience. By 1957, Ralph N. Fey, Miami ’40, as its first incumbent, was preparing to begin devoting full time to his insurance business. On Fey’s recommendation, the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees offered the opportunity to Brower with the understanding that he would continue his business activities part-time. He accepted effective June 30, 1958. He began working in February under Fey’s guidance and was able to take over entirely on May 2. He served seven years. “The caliber of the men who served voluntarily as officers of the Fraternity was above reproach,” added Brower. “At one point in time, I’m sure there wasn’t a major city in the United States where I couldn’t pick up a phone and call somebody of prominence who I’d had a close working relationship with as the administrative secretary.” By the time he, in turn, was ready to leave the Beta office, he had become a partner in Oxford Real

Estate Sales, a development firm. Several other firms eventually were merged with this to form Alpha, Inc., an association of members of the Alpha chapters of fraternities founded at Miami. “The experiences that I had as an undergraduate were perfect, were ideal and were everything a college student could expect,” recalled Brower. “But the more lasting and mature friendships that, to this very day, we enjoy, came about through my service as administrative secretary.” Beta Theta Pi continued to call on Brower. He became the 16th general treasurer, 1967-70, serving ex-officio as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Founders Fund and the Baird Fund. In 1977, he was named a trustee of the Founders Fund to fill an unexpired term. Soon, the boards of the Founders Fund and the Baird Fund were combined, and Brower served on the combined board through the 1984 General Convention. “It was interesting to work shoulder to shoulder with these men, and particularly Seth Brooks who really became a father figure to me, and learn from them and adapt their philosophies of life,” recalled Brower. Over these years, he planned arrangements for six General Conventions; helped organize the annual Alpha migration held in Oxford on or near the August 8th anniversary of the founding of Beta Theta Pi; was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Alpha Chapter House Company and served as its president, and was temporary president of the SesquiCentenary Convention in 1989.

The Shepardson award, created in 2001 to recognize exemplary devotion and dedication to the Fraternity, its objects and obligations, is named in memory of Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883, distinguished former president and general secretary of the Fraternity. The award recognizes brothers who embody the spirit and dedication of Brother Shepardson, and epitomize the concept of lifelong service to the Fraternity.

Fred and Mary Jane are parents of Elizabeth, Rebecca and Susanne. Fred’s Beta relatives include a brother Dan (Miami ’52), a nephew Dan (Miami ’80), a grand-nephew Dan (who is an Alpha Chapter sophomore) and two cousins: Otho E. Lane, Miami 1901 and John M. Sommer, Miami ’53. Another cousin, Nancy Sohngen, married Robert L. Cottrell, Miami ’54, who became a Fraternity vice president and trustee (1971-74) and served as administrative secretary in the 1990s. – T. Olver

Winter 2007

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[Marching Along] Chad E. Eisele Knox ’90

Eisele was selected as Knox College’s director of athletics. A Peoria native and Knox College graduate, Eisele recently concluded a position as head football coach at Minnesota State University-Moorhead. He began work at Knox on May 8 and was one of three finalists selected from a national field of more than 60 applicants. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Knox in political science in 1993 and his master’s degree at Wayne State University in athletic administration in 1997. Eisele played defensive back for the Knox Prairie Fire football team. He was an All-Midwest Conference selection three times, and in 1989 tied the school record of three pass interceptions in a single game. In 1992 and 1993, he served as defensive secondary coach at Knox.

northern terminus of the Trail located in Baxter State Park, Maine. Ray is among the 20% of hikers who attempt a thru-hike each year and complete it.

Edward J. O’Malley Kansas State ’97

O’Malley has been named the first president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center, a nonprofit entity set to open in 2007. O’Malley, currently serving in the Kansas House of Representatives, began his position in January. The Kansas Leadership Center, based in Wichita, will be driven by a mission to develop leaders who will mobilize and transform their communities, institutions and organizations. It will offer training in strategic planning, community organizing, facilitation and advocacy, as well as convene leaders around the state on important health and wellness issues.

Dr. Larry R. Bramlage

Kansas State ’75

Bramlage served as the on-call veterinarian for the American Association of Equine Practitioners on the day that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was injured at the Preakness Stakes. Just as he has been doing for the past 13 years, he supplied his expertise for the live broadcasts on television. After graduating from Kansas State, Bramlage served on the faculty of the Ohio State University where he researched and developed new treatments for horse fractures. Coincidentally, equine surgeons used a technique that Bramlage developed to repair Barbaro’s fractures. Bramlage is the chief of surgery at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky.

Judd F. Devlin

Eastern Kentucky ’85 Devlin will be recognized in the 2007 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® under the specialty of Workers’ Compensation Law. The Best Lawyers lists, representing 80 specialties in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., are compiled through an exhaustive peerreview survey in which thousands of the top lawyers in the U.S. confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The current, 13th edition of Best Lawyers (2007), is based on more than 1.8 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers.

Edward T. El Rassi Oklahoma State ’08

El-Rassi has been selected as one of 12 Niblack Undergraduate Student Research Scholars and will receive a $2,000 scholarship in the spring and fall and a $4,000 scholarship in the summer. The program is an undergraduate-graduate student research partnership with the primary objective to develop and foster student interest in scholarly research within the science disciplines at Oklahoma State University. Each undergraduate-graduate student pair works under the guidance and leadership of a faculty advisor.

Damon “Chuck” Darden Texas Tech ’76

Darden reached the 600 career win milestone coaching high school girls basketball and became one of the winningest coaches in Texas history. His teams have won 12 district championships, made 18 playoff appearances and been to the state tournament five times. In 2004, Darden guided the team to its first state championship. He has had only three losing seasons and boasts an all-time record of 601-212.

Robert K. Steel Duke ’73

M. Tip Ray

Wittenberg ’75 Ray successfully completed an end-to-end or ‘thru-hike’ of the 2,175-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT), the longest continuous marked footpath in the United States. Starting at Springer Mountain in northern Georgia on April 2, Ray wore-out four pairs of hiking boots, suffered extremes of cold and heat, torrential rains, flooding of the trail and elevation changes totaling 90 miles on his way to the summit of 5263’ Mt. Katahdin, the 10

The Beta Theta Pi

Steel was sworn in as the undersecretary of the U.S. Treasury for domestic finance on October 10, 2006. In that capacity, he serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary on matters of domestic finance. He leads the department’s activities with respect to the domestic financial system, fiscal policy and operations, governmental assets and liabilities, and related economic and financial matters.


Matthew J. DeFilippis Columbia ’93

DeFilippis has been promoted to vice president of New Media and Technology for the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP). He will lead ASCAP’s efforts in New Media licensing and in the evaluation of new technology initiatives. Established in 1914, ASCAP is the first and leading U.S. Performing Rights Organization representing the world’s largest repertory totaling more than 8 million copyrighted musical works of every style and genre from some 250,000 composer, lyricist and music publisher members.

Thom W. Brennaman Ohio ’86

Cincinnati Reds Chief Executive Officer Bob Castellini announced the hiring of veteran broadcaster Thom Brennaman for Reds Radio and Reds TV broadcasts. Brennaman signed a four year contract through the 2010 season with the club and will work alongside his father, Hall of Famer Marty Brennaman, for selected radio broadcasts on 700 WLW and also will sit in the booth for Reds TV broadcasts on FSN Ohio. Brennaman, 43, is expected to broadcast approximately 90 games for the Reds while continuing to serve as one of Major League Baseball’s lead announcers on the Saturday Game of the Week for national television rights holder FOX. Brennaman is also part of the NFL and college football broadcast teams for FOX and was in the booth for the worldwide telecast of the college football BCS championship game.

expanding independent sales force, which currently exceeds 1.6 million independent beauty consultants in more than 30 global markets, comprises part of the 2.2 billion dollar company.

Ty M. Baird Penn State ’97

Baird has been admitted to the partnership at IronBridge Capital Management LLC in Chicago where his roles include equity analysis on the investment research team and coordination of the IronBridge internal accounting and financial reporting functions. Previously, Baird served Deloitte & Touche LLP for nine years, most recently as an audit senior manager. Baird’s experience enables him to identify and evaluate accounting and internal control risks at those companies within the IronBridge portfolio. IronBridge and its 21 employees manage approximately $3.8 billion in assets for pension funds, endowments, foundations and high net worth individuals.

Michael F. Arrigo Southern California ’80

VP of eMortgage Solutions Arrigo has been appointed vice president of eMortage solutions at First American, the world’s largest provider of business information. This $8 billion public-firm is headquartered in Santa Ana, Calif., where Arrigo has worked for three years. Prior to this appointment, Arrigo was the senior vice president of eCommerce at Fidelity National Financial.

Brad F. Clement DePauw ’93

William L. Breedlove Pennsylvannia ’07

Breedlove was recognized as one of the top three volunteers in the Philadelphia region because of his dedication to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BBBS SEPA) and because of his outstanding relationship with his little brother. The recognition came from the Philadelphia Eagles’ Community Quarterbacks program, which then made a $2,500 donation to BBBS SEPA in Breedlove’s name. Bill founded the Big Brothers Big Sisters Association on his campus in an effort to build a more unified community of Bigs at Penn.

David B. Holl Clemson ’82

Holl was promoted to president and chief executive officer of Mary Kay Inc., one of the largest skin care and color cosmetic companies in the world. As leader of the executive committee, Holl directs all operational and fiscal initiatives for more than 4,000 Mary Kay Inc. employees worldwide. The company’s rapidly

In the spring of 2006, Clement (pictured on the ladder) reached the top of Mt. Everest during the second deadliest year in the mountain’s history. Clement climbed Everest not just for fun and adventure, but also as part of his chosen profession. He left a successful job in real estate to follow his passion of mountaineering. Through his inspirational story of Mt. Everest, Clement takes the lessons from climbing the highest mountain on Earth and applies them to everyday life through dramatic audio/ visual aids. Presentations are designed to fit the specific needs of various organizations with discussion topics including planning and execution of goals, risk analysis and management, improved leadership and effective team building.

Do you have exciting news to share with your brothers? Tell us about it! Log onto the new magazine website at www.thebetathetapi.org and click “Submit Content.” Winter 2007

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[Alumni News]

15th Annual Christmas Lunch

Washington State University alumni from Oregon and Washington held the 15th Annual Christmas Lunch in Portland, Oregon. So far, they have raised and endowed more than $11,000 to assist members of the Gamma Theta Chapter in attending the various General Fraternity summer leadership opportunities. Mark Martel ’82 and Bill Biggs ’85 have the distinction of never missing the lunch. Lyle Schultz ’52 has only missed one year. This year’s lunch will be held on December 14, 2007. Contact Daniel Young ’83 (Dan@OrBizArch.com) for more information.

Beta Boat Brigade

Since 2000, alumni from the Beta Lambda Chapter at Vanderbilt have been reuniting every two years at Center Hill Lake in central Tennessee. Members of the classes of ’73 through ’76 were represented this year for the “Gene Hammond Memorial Cruise” to honor the memory of their brother who passed in January 2006.

2007 Dragon Classic Golf Tournament Grande Pines Golf Club, Orlando, Fla. Friday, August 3, 2007

Registration Fees

Sponsorships are now available!

Alumni & Guests: $90 Delegates/Leadership College Participants: $25

Lead Sponsor ($500)

Registration includes greens fees, cart, ProLink GPS yardage system, range balls, customized golf balls & tees, snack/beverage tickets, contests and prizes! www.grandepinesgolfclub.com Register on-line at www.betathetapi.org.

Half page ad in two issues of The Beta Theta Pi, half page ad in the Convention program, recognition during a Convention event, premier signage at the tournament and primary sponsorship of the driving range, putting green or beverage cart.

Corporate Sponsor ($250)

Half page ad in one issue of The Beta Theta Pi, quarter page ad in the Convention program, recognition during a Convention event and prominent signage at the tournament.

Individual Sponsor ($150)

Recognition in the magazine, and Wooglin Daily News, tee sign at the tournament and one registration fee (value $90.)

Alumni association and chapter sponsorships ($50)

Recognition in the magazine and Wooglin Daily News, and signage at the tournament. Contact Tom Olver at the Administrative Office (800-800-2382, ext. 235 or tom.olver@betathetapi.org.)

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The Beta Theta Pi


Columbus Area Alumni Appreciation Reception & Dinner Held in conjunction with…

The Beta Theta Pi Board of Trustees Spring Meeting

South Dakota - Reunion

Board of Trustees Vice President John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56 (center), stands with his son John C. Conway ’78 and grandson Gerald E. Tracy ’01, both of whom are alumni from the Gamma Alpha chapter at USD. Three generations of Betas gathered at Dakota Day 2006 in Vermillion, SD where the alumni association gathered more than 35 brothers from across the region on October 7, 2006. Of theose in attendance, 18 were Fraternal Fifties.

Muirfield Village Golf Club May 5, 2007 6:00 p.m. – Reception 7:00 p.m. – Dinner

Epsilon Zeta Alumni Night

The Epsilon Zeta Alumni Association held its inaugural event on Saturday October 21, 2006. Brothers attended the Shakespeare Arms in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. Their next event will be in early 2007 and anyone who is interested in joining should contact Mark David Nell ’95 (ezaa@cogeco.ca) or Jamie Parisi ’90 (ezalumni@ezaa.ca).

OU’s Homecoming Weekend

Tony Bumpas, Oklahoma ’76, and his son Barrett admire the Gamma Phi homecoming float entry during OU’s Homecoming Weekend. The festivities included the annual donor reception at the chapter house and a Sooners football game against the Colorado Buffaloes.

Honoring David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67, and his six years of service as General Secretary For more information, please contact the Administrative Office at 800-800-BETA or Associate Director of the Foundation Martin Cobb at martin.cobb@betathetapi.org. Details and invitations forthcoming to all area alumni in late March 2007.

Columbus skyline ~ photo by Randall Lee Schieber

Winter 2007

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[Center Stage] Shaw Wilson

Les Mayfield Les Mayfield, Southern California ’82, directed 2007 film release Code Name: The Cleaner with Cedric The Entertainer (in the lead role), Lucy Liu and Nicolette Sheridan. He directed The Man with Samuel L. Jackson and Eugene Levy (recently released on DVD), 2001’s American Outlaws with Colin Farrell and 1999’s Blue Streak with Martin Lawrence and Luke Wilson. Mayfield has been an executive producer and producer of a number of TV shows such as The Love Bug, Tower of Terror and The Cape.

Shaw Wilson, Kansas ’82, (far right) and country group BR549 released their sixth album/CD Dog Days, on Dualtone Records in 2006 and made a return trip in late September to the Lillehammer Rhythm & Roots Festival in Norway. Wilson joined the group as its drummer and backing vocalist in 1993.

Mac McCune Mac McCune, Kansas ’57, has released a new CD, The Horn, featuring his superb trumpet stylings on 17 songs. Featured are beautiful ballads, straight forward jazz, Dixieland, country and even a touch of classical music. Among the CD’s best-known standards are “I Got Rhythm,” “When You’re Smilin’,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” “The Very Thought of You” and “Amazing Grace.” Backing McCune on 12 tracks are some of Branson, Missouri’s finest musicians while other tracks feature Arizona’s Danny Long Quartet. The CD is available from Mac McCune Music in Lincoln, Neb., (402) 489-5408.

William R. Moses, Wesleyan ‘82, has appeared in the recurring role of Jack Davis on the Jane Doe TV series since 2005. He will star in the upcoming TV movie Like Mother, Like Daughter this spring. A well-known TV actor for several decades, Moses is best known as Cole Gioberti in 139 episodes of Falcon Crest (1981-87) and Ken Malansky on the Perry Mason series (1989-95.)

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The Beta Theta Pi

Director Les Mayfield, center, takes a moment during the filming for his most recent film, Code Name: The Cleaner, featuring Cedric the Entertainer (left) and Lucy Liu (right).

Beta Stars Jim Jimirro, Penn State ’58, stepped down as president of National Lampoon, Inc. in 2006 but continues as chairman of the board of directors. He formerly served as the first president of The Disney Channel (1983-85) and Walt Disney Home Videos. An avid music historian, he presented a fall 2006 lecture series in Beverly Hills on the music of such greats as Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, among others. The Jimirro Center for the Study of Media Influence (which he founded) is part of the Penn State College of Communications. Pat Leborio, Bethany ’05, known in comedy circles as “The Razorman,” has been called “the funniest Hawaiian on Earth” by LA Weekly. In addition to his standup comedy appearances, he has appeared in the films Austin Powers Goldmember and Night Creep. Dean Lemont, Central Michigan ’91, has had TV roles in 2006 shows Criminal Minds and Outta Sync. In December, he played a lead role (as young William Mulholland) and was a set designer for “A Mulholland Christmas Carol” at the Sacred Fools Theater in Beverly Hills. Andrew Lewis, Oklahoma ’96, was an executive producer on the independent film/DVD, Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon. He formed a production company with chapter brother Cory Butler, Oklahoma ’96, and they are accepting feature length screenplay submissions. Contact Cory via e-mail at cory_butler@yahoo.com. Rivers Rutherford, Mississippi ‘89, was honored as Co-Songwriter of the Year at the ASCAP Awards in October. He had four major hits on ASCAP’s list of Most-Performed Country Songs of 2006 and performed “When I Get Where I’m Going” on the CMT telecast of the awards show.


ROBB WELLER Beyond Entertainment Tonight

Television personality and producer After a lengthy career in front of the camera, Robb Weller, Washington ’72 has now achieved major success as partner/executive producer at one of the television industry’s most prolific and successful production companies. Through his North Hollywood-based Weller/Grossman Productions, he has collaborated with numerous networks on the development of series and specials, in addition to managing operations on daily production and postproduction schedules. Since 2000, Weller has been executive producer of more than 40 realitybased TV series, movies and specials. Among his productions are First Command, Rachael Ray’s Tasty Travels, Time Machine: Beyond the Da Vinci Code, UFO Hunters, Decoding the Past: Prophecies of Iraq, The Turnaround, Wolfgang Puck, Reality Check, The Making of the Rose Parade, Crafters Coast to Coast, Your Reality Checked and NBC’s Funniest Outtakes. He still has had the opportunity to be on camera as anchor of Good Day LA on KTTV Fox 11 in Los Angeles; co-host of HGTV’s Tournament of Roses Parade, and host of the weekly series, A&E’s Top 10.

As an undergraduate in the Beta chapter at Washington, Weller instilled school pride in thousands of Husky fans as a yell leader at athletic events. He became a leading personality on campus and was invited to emcee University events while still a student. He has been hailed as the inventor of “The Wave,” the cheer that gets spectators on their feet and ripples through an entire stadium. He recalls, “We used to do a version of the wave in the student section of the stadium but we didn’t have a name for it. Then, while I was serving as a guest cheerleader at the 1981 UW homecoming game, the wave leaked out of the student section and just took off. That’s how it got started.”

Recognized around the world as a television personality, Weller has hosted series and specials for NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, A&E, HBO and TNN since co-hosting Entertainment Tonight in the mid-1980s. That was followed by a stint as co-host on Entertainment This Week; host of The Home Show (1988-89), and host of Win, Lose or Draw (1989-90.) He estimates he has interviewed more than 5,000 guests in his career, including Ronald Reagan, George Bush, John Glenn, Sophia Loren, Burt Lancaster, Jack Lemmon and Harrison Ford, among others.

Radio and Television Broadcasting Inspired by his uncle and mentor, Art Gilmore, a successful radio/TV announcer and host, Weller decided early on that he wanted a career in radio and television. After graduating with a communications degree, he became a sideline announcer at Husky games. He later filled in for the host of Seattle Today, which led to TV host jobs in Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago. His successor on a Chicago morning talk show was a then unknown named Oprah Winfrey. After taking a host job on an evening magazine show in New York, he received a call from the executive producer of Entertainment Tonight, who asked him to come to California. He filled in for weekend hosts, and then became the show’s regular host four weeks later. Weller became interested in producing while hosting The Home Show in 1988-89 and later started Weller/Grossman Productions with partner Gary Grossman, a former coordinating producer on Entertainment Tonight. Their first TV show aired in 1992 and they shared a Daytime Emmy Award (with several other producers) in 2002 for Wolfgang Puck (Outstanding Service Show.) They also received a 2005 Emmy Award nomination for Time Machine: Beyond the Da Vinci Code in the Outstanding Nonfiction Special category. Weller has also been honored as the first inductee into the Washington State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Winter 2007

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[Books by Betas] 1

A collection of essays detailing the extensive history of New Mexico.

3

A unique opportunity to learn of the beginnings of television from one of RCA’s pioneering engineers.

2

A practical book about eating well and living to enjoy it.

1

2

3

LARGER THAN LIFE: NEW MEXICO IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY

TEXAS TWO-STEP DIET

TELE-VISIONARIES: THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE INVENTION OF TELEVISION

Ferenc M. Szasz, Ohio Wesleyan ’62 Larger Than Life offers 11 essays that touch on a variety of southwestern themes. Divided into three sections, the first highlights three people who shaped the region’s history including Charles A. Lindbergh. The second section of the book explores the cultural appeal of the Land of Enchantment, as well as the ammunition explosion in 1944 in Tolar, New Mexico. The final section investigates several southwestern mysteries such as the tale of a German immigrant who allegedly healed more than 5,000 people during 1895. Compiled over a course of 30 years, Szasz’s essays present segments of the modern history of New Mexico that are both interesting and entertaining. Szasz is a regents professor of history at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he has taught since 1967. He has written, edited and co-edited 11 books. Paperback. 316 pages. US$22.95 (+ $5 s/h.) University of New Mexico Press. 2006. Available at www.umnpress.com

John C. Bridgman, Iowa State ’59 and Amy D. Bradshaw John Bridgman, joined by licensed dietician Amy Bradshaw, presents a plan for living life to achieve happiness and health — even when faced with cheese enchiladas. The two important steps for losing weight — determination and dedication — are the basis for the diet. In Texas Two-Step Diet, Bridgman and Bradshaw present easy ways to figure out what is right and wrong with your figure and how to work toward your goals. The book lists 16 action points to follow and provides recipes throughout, giving the reader suggestions on what to eat that will still be delicious and healthy. Bridgman earned his bachelor of science in industrial engineering. He has worked for Cutler-Hammer and Siemens, and retired from ABB Control, Inc. in 2002. After briefly serving as the executive director of the Robert & Rudy Priddy Charitable Trust, Bridgman is retired and doing management consulting work. He also published Time Out…It’s Your Call. Bridgman and his wife reside in Wichita Falls, Texas. Hardcover. 152 pages. US$22.95. Bright Sky Press. 2005. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

Richard C. Webb, Denver ’37 In Tele-Visionaries, Richard Webb offers readers an easy-to-understand account of the invention and evolution of the television. From the first developments in monochrome image transmission to color broadcasting to digital video, TeleVisionaries offers an inside view of the innovations that have made television the powerful communication tool it is today. Webb was a member of “Ray Kell’s color group” at RCA, where he and several other talented engineers played a pivotal role in the development of the television. The book recounts the milestones in television history as well as the challenges met and remarkable ingenuity used to solve them. Readers will discover how the first simple steps have brought the world into the age of modern electronics. Webb worked at RCA from 1939-54 as a research fellow with Purdue University and then as a staff research engineer. He founded three companies involved in a wide range of electronics and received the Outstanding Electrical Engineer Award from Purdue University in 1992. Hardcover. 192 pages. US$52.50. Wiley, I-EEE. 2006 Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

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The Beta Theta Pi


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:

5

A guide to help businesses realize their potential to align and engage a workforce.

Steven M. Brylski Associate Editor 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056

6

A detailed look at the buildings and architecture of an historic town in Ohio.

A fast-paced action thriller 4 that takes the reader on a trip across the world.

4

5

6

HAT TRICK

THE MISSING METRIC

Robert S. Fuqua, Wichita State ’64

Randall S. Vosler, Miami ’76 and Stuart J. Vosler, Miami ’77

PERRYSBURG HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE

Ride along on the world’s largest cruise ship as Fuqua takes readers from the Olympic Stadium in Athens, Greece, through the Middle East and eventually to the United States. Soccer, the world’s sport, is introduced to the world’s largest cruise ship along with a sinister plan by al-Qaeda to attack the United States with anthrax. In an attempt to stop the plan from being carried out, Len Wilson, a pilot and specialist for the American Insidious Disease Center becomes involved. Soccer, anthrax, al-Qaeda and international espionage keep readers turning the pages of Hat Trick. Fuqua earned his bachelor of arts in political science in 1964. He then taught for a year in Athens at an English speaking school before earning his law degree. In 1989, he obtained his single engine land pilot’s license and flew crippled and burned children to the Shrine Hospitals for the Wichita Midian Shrine Temple Flying Fezzes. Fuqua coached indoor and outdoor soccer for 16 years and practices law in Kansas and Missouri. Paperback. 350 pages. US$16. Authorhouse. 2006. Available at www.authorhouse.com/ bookstore

Whereas the medical MRI gave physicians the specific diagnoses of soft tissue problems in the human body, The Missing Metric introduces the “organizational MRI” or Management Realization Index. The MRI provides the capability to diagnose management problems such as personnel and systems before they show up in the financials. The ability of the MRI to specifically diagnose the nature and location of performance obstacles hidden within organizations allows for targeted solutions instead of traditionally ineffective remedies. Along with operational, customer and financial metrics, measuring management realization is the final metric for achieving a balanced and comprehensive view of the health of an organization. Stuart and Randall, principles of the Vosler Group LLC, reside in Dublin, Ohio, and Atlanta, Ga., respectively. Paperback. 127 pages. US$14.95. Guidant Press. 2005. Available at www.missingmetric.com

C. Robert Boyd, Missouri ’42 The historically busy port town of Perrysburg, Ohio, attracted entrepreneurial pioneers from the East. As the town grew, residents built many remarkable homes and city buildings. There are more than 100 of the community’s architectural treasures still standing in the Historic District of Perrysburg, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The houses and buildings include examples of nearly every major architectural style from the 1820s to 1930s. Perrysburg Historic Architecture is part of the Images of America series that celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns and cities across the United States. Boyd uses photographs and town history to take the reader through the decades of change in Perrysburg. For the past 20 years, Boyd has devoted time to local history and architecture, researching, speaking and writing. He has been active for years in the preservation group Historic Perrysburg, Inc. and published many articles and several books on Perrysburg historical subjects. Paperback. 128 pages. US$19.99. Arcadia Publishing. 2005. Available at www.arcadiapublishing.com

Winter 2007

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Sports R [Sports RoundUp]

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The Beta Theta Pi


Roundup tight end Taylor Donnell ’10 while wide receiver Collin Taylor ’09 and defensive back Tim Sergi were also on the squad. Defensive end Tim Freeberg ’07 was a member of Washington State squad. Playing for the Pennsylvania sprint team were defensive lineman John Curran ’09, who gained All-CSFL honorable mention after making 19 tackles, lineman Christian Corrigan ’09 (15 tackles) and quarterback William Johnson ’09. Sprint Football, or Lightweight Football, is a version of American football where no player may weigh more than 172 Vanderbilt ’09 pounds. It is played by teams of the Collegiate Sprint Football League (CSFL), which includes West Point, Cornell University, the Naval Academy, Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania.

Aaron Lewis

Cassen Jackson-Garrison

Carnegie Mellon ’07

Football The leading Beta player in NCAA Division I-A was Vanderbilt running back Cassen Jackson-Garrison ’09, who was second for the Commodores in rushing with 614 yards and five touchdowns on 152 carries. Against Temple, he had a season high 142 yards on 13 carries, 15 catches for 104 yards and another score. Jason Olesnavage ’09 was a member of the 11-1 Michigan Rose Bowl squad as a kicker and deep snapper Brian Selman ’09 saw action for the 6-6 Alabama Independence Bowl squad. Earning Academic All-Big 12 second team honors for Baylor was safety Bennett Hoefer ’07, who played in eight contests. Also on the squad were offensive tackle Ted Tanner ’07 and center Sam Sledge ’09. Playing three games for Indiana was

Bobby Smart Hanover ’09

Named to the College Division Academic All-American first team was Carnegie Mellon co-captain/defensive back Aaron Lewis ’07, who was chosen for the AFCA Division III Aztec Bowl. One of 60 Betas on the squad, he led in tackles (89), interceptions (five for 56 yards) and was on the All-UAA first team. Also serving as co-captains were All-UAA first team offensive guard J.P. White ’07, All-UAA second team linebacker James Rogers ’07 (fourth with 73 tackles) and running back Jon Calkert ’07. All-UAA first team running back Robert Gimson ’08 had a big year, rushing for 1,059 yards (long of 90) and 11 TDs. Carnegie Mellon had other offensive standouts: All-UAA wide receiver Mark Davis ’07 (12 receptions for 399 yards), tight end Derek Wisniewski ’09 (13 catches for 259 yards, three scores), All-UAA first team center Anthony Ciotti ’08; All-UAA first team offensive guard Jameson O’Donnell ’07 and All-UAA honorable mention receiver Jon Kline ’07 (21 receptions for 196 yards). Also on offense were quarterback Doug Facemyer ’09 (36 of 69 for 470 yards); wide receivers Jeremy Doo ’08 and Eric Hayes ’09; running backs Colby Whitman ’08, Andy Lovrovich ’10, Ryan Phillips ’09 and Greg Pitts ’09; tight end Vince Giacalone ’09; and linemen Joe Gibbs ’09, Ryan Logue ’07 and Kurtis Meyer ’09. Carnegie Mellon’s defense had other stars including All-UAA first team punter Matt Adams ’08 (51 for a 36.7 average), All-UAA first team punt returner and second team defensive back Jonathan Menhart ’07 (18 returns for an 11.8 average, 55 tackles), All-UAA second team lineman Clay Crites ’09 (30 tackles), All-UAA honorable mention back Nate Scarmazzi ’07 (32 tackles), All-UAA honorable mention linebacker Andrew Serdy ’07 (59 stops); linemen Christopher Donlon ’10, Matt Schultz ’08 and Sean Kennedy ‘10; linebackers Socrates

Jason Allen Hanover ’07

Winter 2007

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Sports R Zachiarias ’10 and Stanley Onyimba ’10, and backs Jake Cundiff ’09 and Cody Vild ’08.

Hanover linebacker Jason Allen ’07 was HCAC Co-Most Valuable Defensive Player and an AllHCAC first teamer after leading with 118 tackles. Defensive back Keith Sofiak ’08 was fifth with 59 tackles and gained All-HCAC honorable mention. Linebacker Scott Stegeman ’07 posted 52 stops and back Mike McElrath ’07 made 46 tackles. Other good defenders were back Brooks Kieres (two interceptions, 29 tackles) and back Jake Crockett ’08 (10 tackles).

Hanover’s other All-HCAC first teamer was receiver Bobby Smart ’09, who led with 34 receptions for 386 yards and seven touchdowns. He also returned 12 kickoffs for an 18.3 average. Named to the All-UAA second team was kicker Matt Herron ’08 (five field goals, 32 points). Tied for third in receptions were co-captain C.J. Karpiak ’07 (30 for 247 yards) and Dustin Stewart ’07 (30 for 401 yards, four TDs). Other receivers were Tyler Thiems ’09 (21 for 235 yards); Andrew Houtsch ’07 (19 catches for 222 yards, 35 punts for a 34.9 average); Tyler Rump ’08 (nine receptions); and Noel Somarriba ’08 (nine receptions).

Yancy Edwards Kenyon ’09

Fifteen players on the Kenyon squad were led by All-NCAC first team offensive lineman Yancy Edwards ’09. Co-captain Carlin Shoemaker ’07 led with 43 catches for 496 yards, four TDs and 21 kickoff returns for a 24.7 average. Receiver Phelipe Johnson ’09 added 21 receptions for 339 yards. David Driscoll ’08 had 14 punts for a 40.7 average and handled some kickoffs. Offensive linemen were Dan Gajewski ’09, Ben Bennett ’08, John Gilsenal ’08 and Terry Johnson ’08. The Kenyon defense was led by co-captain/linebacker William Lippert ’07, who ranked second with 68 tackles. Linebacker Mike Chase ’08 was third with 54 stops and co-captain/lineman Dave Cicetti ’07 made 54 tackles, including 7.5 for losses and a co-high three sacks. Other key defenders were linemen Ben Van Horrick ’07 (36 tackles), Chris Santagate ’08 (34 stops) and Chris Loggins ’08 (22 tackles). Mark Stinson ’08 of Toronto started out at quarterback, hitting 19 of 36 for 270 yards and rushing for 143 yards and three scores before moving to wide receiver. He was second with 32 receptions for 405 yards, including a top game of nine catches for 123 yards versus Ottawa. Playing well again for 20

The Beta Theta Pi

Carlin Shoemaker Kenyon ’07

Western Ontario was linebacker Tyler Cook ’07. Wide receiver David Araiza ’07 of DePauw caught 20 passes for 319 yards, returned five punts for a 10.8 average and ran back eight kickoffs at a 14.4 clip. Teammate Ian MacLeod ’07 posted 16 tackles in seven contests. Former DePauw head coach Nick Mourouzis, Miami ’59, served as assistant coach of the Division III All-Stars who played Mexico in the Aztec Bowl.

Two Westminster Betas were named to the All-UMAC South Division first team: nose guard Aaron Browne ’07 (32 tackles) and safety Nick Diefenbach ’07 (39 tackles). Chosen for the All-UMAC second team was receiver Chad Shank ’09, who was second with 26 catches for 369 yards. Other Betas seeing action were safety Travis Foster ’08 (41 stops), cornerback Blake Logan ’08 (22 tackles), end Lester Jones (21 tackles), linebacker Levi Hamilton and running back Nate Hoffman ’08. Fifteen Betas were on the Knox squad led by offensive lineman Brad Becque ’08, an All-MWC second team pick. Running back Aaron Willets ’08 gained AllMWC honorable mention after rushing for 686 yards on 156 carries. Against Grinnell, he ran for 130 yards on 30 attempts.

Aaron Willets Knox ’08

Lineman Will Becque ’08 received All-MWC honorable mention and lineman Tim Beishir ’08 was on the MWC All-Academic team. Running back Grant Guimond ’09 ran for 291 yards, three TDs on 58 attempts and ran back six kickoffs for a 20.8 average. John Boylan ’08 caught seven passes in five games. The Knox defense featured two All-MWC honorable mention choices: linebacker Kevin Corley ’08 (second with 57 tackles, 11 for losses), who was also an MWC All-Academic pick, and back Zack LoMonaco ’08 (26 tackles). Linebacker Nick Morris ’07 was fourth with 51 stops, including a co-high 13 for losses. Also playing well for Knox were lineman Jaran Rutledge ’08, who was in on 21 tackles, and back Jarrett Corrow ’08, who made 18 tackles. Wabash had 16 Beta players, led by All-NCAC second team kicker Chad Finley ’08, who scored 56 points, including a school record 41 extra points. He also booted a career-long 46 yard field goal and punted 31 times for a 35.0 average, including a 60-yarder. Fullback Shane Keffer ’07 ran for five scores and caught 22 passes for 217 yards. Also catching passes were


Roundup Bart Banach ’08 (18 for 146 yards), Andrew Rode ’09 (15 for 225 yards) and Tim Schirack ’07 (seven for 131 yards).

Playing as regulars on the Wabash offensive line were Brian Hilts ’08, Jeff Williams ’07 and Patrick Long ’09. Solid defenders were back Bryan Engh ’09 (29 tackles, NCAC Defensive Player of the Week), lineman T.J. Schaffer ’07 (30 tackles), linebacker Brent Banach ’09 (26 stops), lineman Justin Sparks ’08 (23 tackles), and back Adrian Frederick. Also on the squad were running back Adam Pilli ’09, linebacker Eric Woolf ’09 and lineman Mike Wartman ’09. The Bethany squad had four Betas, including defensive end Chris Boland, who posted 29 tackles, recovered two fumbles and forced two fumbles. Also playing were linebacker Ron Ermlick and offensive guards Brandon Curtis and Justin Elkins. A.J. Tauscher ’08 was the punter for Wesleyan, averaging 34.2 on 52 punts, with a best of 62 yards and 17 downed inside the 20 yard line. Defensive tackle John Harding ’09 made 25 tackles in seven contests while defensive back Field Yates ’09 and linebacker David Brustein ’10 also saw action. Other 2006 players included Denison quarterback Dan Kreel ’07 and Sewanee defensive end Russell Riehl ’08.

One of the greatest players in University of Iowa history, Ken Ploen, Iowa ’57, returned to campus as honorary captain for the Hawkeyes in their Homecoming game against Purdue. He was an All-American quarterback and Rose Bowl MVP before joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League for 11 seasons. Ploen is a member of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame and Iowa Sports Hall of Fame. In 2005, he was chosen as one of the Blue Bombers’ 20 All-Time Greats.

CROSS COUNTRY Matt Stuber ’07 of St. Louis was named to the Atlantic-10 Academic All-Conference team for the second consecutive year. He ran in every meet and had the school’s third-best time (27:23.75) at the Atlantic-10 meet. His best 8K time (26:35), a personal best, occurred at the Saluki Invitational and he also competed in the NCAA Midwest Regional 10K (34:38.24). Rob Lockhart ’10 of George Washington had a best 8K time of 26:59.60 in a 51st place finish at the Atlantic-10 meet. He also had a 27:14.41 clocking for 48th place at the 8K Carnegie Mellon meet. At the Roe Granger Cross Country Meet, Jonathan Gilson ’09 of North Dakota placed 16th with a time of 29:02. Phillip Keith ’07 had the top finish (28th) for Lawrence with an 8K time of 28:24.7 at the MWC meet. Chris Dudley ’08 of DePauw placed 13th (out of 35 runners) at the Wabash Hokum Karem meet and had a time of 28:37 at the 8K GLCA Championship. Chosen for the MWC Academic All-Conference team was Bryan Lund of Knox. Other cross country competitors were Ryan Oelkers ’09 of Stevens and Kevin Berg ’09 of Toronto.

the Albany Admirals of the United Soccer League’s Premier Development League. Defenseman Teddy Yewdell ’07 played 12 games for the 8-4-5 Colgate squad. Playing for the 96-1 Lawrence squad were defenseman Dru Claar ’07 and midfielder Ben Glover ’08. Forward Ryan McCormack ’07 captained the San Diego soccer club team and was joined by defenseman Kyle Thompson ’08.

Betas dominated the Washington & Jefferson water polo team as 12 chapter members were on the squad. Brian Train ’07 led with 44 goals, 39 assists and 34 steals. Andrew Bell ’08 had 29 goals, 10 assists and 18 steals while Brent Johnson ’08 added 18 goals, 36 assists and 28 steals. Also scoring well was Eddie Werner ’09, who had 17 goals, six assists and 18 steals. Goalie Andrew Wnuk ’08 posted 184 saves and 30 steals for W&J. Ryan Mitrovich ’09 and James Comfort ’08 played for the Clemson club team while Brendon Roosken ’08 and Barrett Price ’09 were members of the Texas Tech water polo club.

Two Betas have joined the Atlanta Braves organization. Named manager of the International League’s Richmond club was Dave Brundage, Oregon State ’86, who spent the last six seasons as a manager in the Seattle organization. Joining Richmond as pitching coach was Guy Hansen, UCLA ’69. Veteran broadcaster Thom Brennaman, Ohio ’86, signed a four year contract with the Cincinnati Reds and will work alongside his father, Hall of Famer Marty Brennaman. He will broadcast 90 games for the Reds and will continue his duties with FOX on the Saturday Game of the Week and postseason telecasts. Basketball legend John Wooden, Purdue ’32, was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame’s founding class and University of Texas Athletic Director DeLoss Dodds, Kansas State ’59, was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Track star Jason Giuffre, Idaho ’06, was named the 2006 recipient of the Western Athletic Conference’s Stan Bates Award as the WAC’s most outstanding male studentathlete. A 3.77 student who graduated in December, he was an All-Academic athlete for four seasons and ran on the Idaho 1600meter relay that placed second at the 2006 WAC outdoor meet. — J. Langhammer

OTHER SPORTS Soccer goalie Alex Lubyansky ’07 of Michigan was with the Detroit Arsenal of the National Premier Soccer League and defenseman Dillon Colucci ’08 of George Washington played 11 games for

Matt Stuber Kenyon ’07

Winter 2007

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Knox Shepardson

Ransom

Robb

Who was Major Ransom witnessed Beta Theta Pi grow from only 10 chapters to a vibrant international fraternity with more than 90 chapters.

Baird

Ransom?

Shepardson, Knox, Robb and Baird are all names etched in the hearts, minds and literature of Beta Theta Pi’s first century. Their contributions were immense and their legacies are firmly planted in the Fraternity’s history. Yet, surprisingly one name is often omitted from this recollection of early Beta greats. It is the name of a man Willis O. Robb, Ohio Wesleyan 1879 described as “almost certainly the greatest Beta who ever lived.” The man he was speaking of was Major Wyllys Cadwell Ransom, Michigan 1848. Who was Major Ransom? Former Fraternity President A.J.G. Priest, Idaho 1918 described him as, “a rare spirit and his ardor for Beta Theta Pi was so intense and so articulate that he left his mark on the Fraternity more completely and more indelibly than any Beta of his generation.” It is remarkable the great major is not better remembered when examining his record of service to the Fraternity. Ransom, who came into the Fraternity a mere seven years after it was established, made an early impact serving as chapter president, redesigning the Beta badge (as an undergraduate) and beginning a dialog with the Michigan faculty about Beta Theta Pi becoming a recognized society at the University. Priest recalled, “We may be sure that young Ransom was listened to with attention and respect, because his father was governor of Michigan at the time!”

He became so well known through early Fraternity correspondence that he was elected secretary to the 1848 Convention. He continued as a convention officer at eight of the 15 conventions he attended, serving as president four times. The interval between his first and last convention was nearly 50 years. Ransom was born a leader. After moving to Kansas in the late 1850s, he narrowly avoided severe punishment several times for openly denunciating proslavery outrages. In 1861 he joined the Union Army immediately after the fall of Ft. Sumter and served honorably throughout the Civil War. He avoided injury 22 22

The TheBeta BetaTheta ThetaPiPi


until after the war, in 1866, when he was shot in the streets of Kansas City, suffering three severe wounds for his stern positions. Ransom recovered and reemerged on the fraternity scene just as Beta Theta Pi was recovering from the Civil War. In 1873 he served as convention president and, along with a transfer from the Miami chapter (Lindorf D. Tosh), he founded the chapter at the University of Kansas. His enthusiasm for Beta Theta Pi was so fervent that he successfully persuaded one of the Kansas professors to resign his own fraternity membership and join them in organizing a Beta chapter.

“More than any other man he typified and helped create, and to instill in the membership of the Fraternity, the Beta spirit...”

Perhaps, most notably, Ransom resumed his quest to combat antifraternity sentiment. He put forth the resolution to separate the esoteric elements of the constitution into a separate ritual thereby publishing the first open constitution in the Fraternity world. Furthermore, he was the sole author of the new constitution in 1879 and the author of the X.Y.Z. ritual, to which much of the structure and beauty of today’s ritual can be attributed. The pure and powerful language found in the Objects of Beta Theta Pi flowed solely from the pen of Major Ransom.

Ransom was regarded so highly for his leadership that in 1879 he was elected chairman of the commission that arranged for the union with Alpha Sigma Chi. William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1878, who was a counterpart to Ransom in Alpha Sigma Chi — remembered, “We were surprised then at his single-hearted devotion to his Fraternity. He could not understand any other attitude toward it and was thoroughly impatient at any other spirit.” In 1895 he was again summoned for his leadership as the chairman of the Code Commission to mediate a developing schism between Fraternity leaders. “The point was that Major Ransom was recognized by both groups as above all factional differences in his utter devotion to the Fraternity’s best interests,” noted Priest. He quickly and effectively healed the divide and as a result had a strong hand in the present governing structure of the Fraternity. This record of service and influence to Beta Theta Pi is rivaled by very few individuals. “But it represents only one side, and that the less important side, of Major Ransom’s Beta influence and career,” explained Robb in a special report to the 1908 Convention. “More than any other man he typified and helped create, and to instill into the membership of the Fraternity, the Beta spirit that has made Beta Theta Pi unique among Greek Letter Societies — the spirit that has made us and kept us a fraternity.” Personally known to more than 3,000 Betas, Ransom was beloved for his warm personality and equally genuine affection toward Betas of his own generation and the youth of 60 years later. He was universally known as the most influential Beta from 1873 to 1897 for both his visionary leadership and his heartfelt affection for his fellow brothers. In Ransom’s nearly 80 years of life (1828-1908) he witnessed Beta Theta Pi grow from a small western fraternity with only 10 chapters to a vibrant international fraternity with more than 90 chapters. Through it all he helped shape the character and destiny of the organization arguably more than any other. Clearly, “Who was Major Ransom?” should not be a question of ignorance for members of Beta Theta Pi. It should instead be an opportunity for pride and remembrance for all Betas. It should be a question whose answer inspires future youth to high aspirations, fraternal love and the Beta spirit. — M. Hill

Maj. Wyllys Cadwell Ransom, Michigan 1848 (April 28, 1828 - February 1, 1908)

Chronology of Fraternity Service Entered the sophomore class at the University of Michigan 1846 Initiated into Lambda chapter, and was made its recorder 1847 Became chapter corresponding secretary 1848 Became president of the chapter 1848 Redesigned the fraternity badge 1849 Delegate to and secretary of the convention held at Hudson, Ohio 1873 With L.D.L. Tosh of Miami chapter, founded the chapter at the University of Kansas. 1873 President of the convention held at Cincinnati 1875 President of the convention held at Evansville 1878 Revised the constitution and caused its open publication, first in the Fraternity world 1878 Chairman of the commission which arranged for the union with Alpha Sigma Chi 1879 Chairman of the committee that admitted the Alpha Sigma Chi chapters 1879 Revised the ritual – XYZ 1879-85 Director of the Fraternity 1880 President of the convention held at Baltimore 1880-83 Visiting Officer of the Fraternity 1883 President of the convention held at Saratoga 1885 Vice president of the convention held at Niagara 1885-89 Alumni Secretary of the Fraternity 1889 Attended the semi-centennial of the Fraternity 1894 Attended the pilgrimage to Miami and the founders dinner 1895 Chairman of the Code Commission 1894-97 Trustee of the Fraternity 1895-97 President of the Fraternity 1845

Winter2006 2007 Summer

23 23


Penn State Renovation

T HE KEYSTONE HOME

W “We have to improve the quality of the house from the inside out. This renovation is bringing to light a revitalized sense of tradition and brotherhood for all of us.”

When “The Summit of the Arch” was adopted as the Alpha Upsilon chapter motto, the phrase carried with it a clever and slightly obscure reference to the nickname of Pennsylvania, the Keystone State. Throughout the years, this motto has encouraged undergraduates to reach for that summit and to set lofty standards. But in architecture, the keystone is much more than just the pinnacle of an arch. In fact, this central wedge locks all other pieces into place, connecting each and effectively creating a long-lasting structure. Symbolically, this connectivity speaks to the mutual aid and assistance that Beta Theta Pi values so highly. When the authors created this motto, they likely took into account those qualities of a keystone. They may not have foreseen, however, the similar role that the Alpha Upsilon’s chapter house would serve the organization. The chapter house had long been a shining jewel of the Fraternity. Over a period of 78 years, however, it had lost much of its luster. At one time, the house was nothing short of spectacular with all the modern amenities afforded to its residents. Today, it has undergone many enhancements to the living areas,

24

The Beta Theta Pi

common rooms, basement and new member dorms. Such renovations were necessary and greatly welcomed. Individual rooms had become unlivable and the bathrooms had, according to former Administrative Secretary, Ken Rawley ’76, “reached a stage of utter deterioration.”


Chapter president, Michael Parachini ’09, strongly supports the renovation, “We have to improve the quality of the house from the inside out. This renovation is bringing to light a revitalized sense of tradition and brotherhood for all of us.” The list of improvements includes such luxuries as heated bathroom floor tiles, imported mahogany tables hand-carved in Colombia, biometric fingerprint scanners on the chapter hall entrance and front door, as well as red leather dinner chairs identical to those found in the White House. Don Abbey, founder and CEO of The Abbey Company, a realty corporation in southern California, donated the $3.5 million gift for this project. North-American Interfraternity Conference Executive Vice President Jon Williamson offers his appreciation for Abbey’s generosity, “The NIC congratulates all the members of Beta Theta Pi for their significant investment

in the fraternity, both at the national and local levels. Our undergraduates need the constant support and motivation that only dedicated alumni can provide.” After a visit to the house in 2004, Abbey walked through the arched doorway that once gave him so many fond memories and had only one thought on his mind. “Repulsive!” For a man who works extensively in real estate, these are strong words. He says firmly, “People can’t be proud of anything when they are living in slums. I believe that we need to have a strong physical environment for the kids to respond.” And respond they have. The results from this project extend beyond repairing such material things as tiling and furniture. One could see, simply by observing the alumni and undergraduates, that the project has fortified the very postures of everyone involved. The men seem to stand a little

“People can’t be proud of anything when they are living in slums. I believe that we need to have a strong physical environment for the kids to respond.” – Don Abbey, founder and CEO of The Abbey Company

Winter 2007

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Penn State Renovation

T HE KEYSTONE HOME

The dining room (above) features rare stained-glass windows designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, dining chairs like those found in the White House and hand-carved mahogany tables. Frank Polizzi ’92 and Edward B. Hunt ’57 (right) join together to sing a classic Beta tune.

“I’m proud of Don’s spectacular renovations to the Beta House. The restoration of the structure back to its original state is unbelievable, and he added all the technology needed to be a college student today. In addition, the University must foster the Greek system because I believe that those who belong to a sorority, fraternity, athletic team or who participate in an annual events such as the Dance Marathon form strong bonds that bring them back to campus and inspire them to support the university financially.” – Sue and Joe Paterno

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The Beta Theta Pi

taller, laugh a little harder and a sing a little louder. Undergraduate Jared Fried ’07 notes, “The biggest thing that has come out of this renovation is that people are more involved. Don Abbey is a part of this brotherhood, I can tell you that with confidence. He is a friend to everyone in this house.”

renovations from a distance. After buying a new vacuum cleaner for the Chapter, he immediately set to work cleaning much of the house by himself. At first, the sight of Abbey vacuuming for hours worried the undergraduates that his standards for cleanliness would be greater than they expected. They soon realized, however, that this was simply an example of his work ethic.

Abbey has put much more into this project than simply money. Regular visits with the undergraduates allows him to do more than oversee the

“More than anyone else, Don [Abbey] has been the champion for the active chapter says Jon Hirtle ’74. “He believes in the actives, he believes in their


“I think my life has been a reflection of seeking passions. If I had any advice, which I seldom give away, I’d say your success has nothing to do with money. It has everything to do with passion.” encouragement. “I believe that the whole fabric of Penn State life is anchored on the Greek System, both fraternities and sororities.”

The remodeled new member sleeping quarters (above) are fully furnished with beds and frames. The front entrance to the Alpha Upsilon chapter house (left).

football scholarship as a member of the first class for longtime Nittany Lions Head Football Coach Joe Paterno. Through his long relationship with the Paterno family, Abbey has been challenged to find opportunities to give back to the University.

capacity to grow and their capacity to make us proud.” With an intense expression and elbows propped on the table of the chapter hall, Abbey asserts, “I think my life has been a reflection of seeking passions. If I had any advice, which I seldom give away, I’d say your success has nothing to do with money. It has everything to do with passion.” Abbey found himself attracted to Beta Theta Pi shortly after arriving on campus in the mid-60s. He had received a full

When the Paternos held a press conference to announce they would be donating $3.5 million to the campus library, it set a precedent that he would later meet. In fact, Sue Paterno, wife of the legendary football coach and Abbey’s long time friend, publicly challenged him in front of the press that day. He promptly remembers, “She expected a lot more from me. When I decided to make this gift, I called her. She thinks what we’re doing here is spectacular.” Mrs. Paterno was in attendance as a guest speaker on the morning of Saturday, November 4. She addressed an eager crowd with a message of

There was little that anyone could do to persuade Abbey to spend his money elsewhere; he would bring the luster back to this proud facility. Within a few short years, Penn State’s Beta house would once again serve as the keystone of the undergraduates college experience. Becky Persons, longtime Beta Sweetheart and wife of Hutch Persons ’76, affirms, “Any time I come to Penn State, I have a home here. Isn’t it great that in a world that swirls around us, and is different everyday, that… great values and traditions…have held fast here at the Beta house?” Doug Anderson ’54, remarks enthusiastically, “I believe in those old fashioned virtues, the sterling virtues that our mothers used to tell us about and I think these young boys do, too. I see nothing but positive signs of what this fraternity is going to be.” It seems that this gift from Don Abbey has less to do with glass and concrete and stone, and more to do with repositioning the chapter, with its long heritage of tradition and brotherhood, as a keystone for Penn State and for Beta Theta Pi. With the right leadership to leverage Abbey’s tremendous generosity, Alpha Upsilon will continue to reach for the summit of the arch. – S. Brylski

Winter 2007

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35th ANNIVERSARIES

EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY H

omecoming weekend at Eastern Kentucky University is similar to many others across the continent. Alumni walk side-by-side, devotedly dressed in school colors and reminiscing about what the school was like “back in the day.” In Richmond, Kentucky, the alumni happen to call themselves Colonels, their colors happen to be maroon and white, and the conversation happens to hinge on campus changes. For the brothers of the Delta Xi Chapter, however, a return to EKU this year meant much more than seeing old friends and new buildings. They celebrated a 35 year chapter anniversary with a banquet, golf outing and an annual meeting over breakfast that included 72 brothers in attendance. Moreover, the weekend was a chance to solidify a long-awaited return of Beta Theta Pi to the campus. Interestingly, up until 1968 fraternities had never existed on the campus. For unknown and unfounded reasons, administrators simply felt that such societies had no place at the university. However, times changed and EKU administrators finally realized the positive gains and immediate potential associated with a strong Greek culture. Local fraternities quickly formed, filling the void. One group, Alpha Chi Alpha, soon found a niche on campus. The student body promptly associated the organization with their motto: brotherhood, scholarship and achievement. Thereafter, national and international fraternities sought to expand, hoping to convince a local organization to affiliate. More than five general fraternities wanted to absorb AXA, but only one stood out amongst the rest: Beta Theta Pi. In 1971, the local fraternity was officially admitted to the light of Beta Theta Pi with an installation banquet held in what was then the Keen Johnson Student Center. Thirty-five years later, the Delta Xi chapter reconvenes in the same banquet hall to mark another momentous occasion in its history. The night brought a lot of excitement with the induction of two new members into The Delta Xi Alumni Hall of Fame (Joe Orrender ’81 and Shawn Mountjoy ’84), an awards ceremony for the undergraduates, an address by General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63 and the climactic conclusion of an 18-month capital campaign.

Top: Members of the Delta Xi chapter gather in front of the Keen Johnson Building to celebrate 35 years of Beta at EKU. This building was also the site of the Colony’s original installation banquet. Bottom: New inductees to the Delta Xi Hall of Fame: Joe Orrender ’81 (left) and Shawn Mountjoy ’84.

The alumni set a fundraising expectation but actually surpassed it on the day of the 35th anniversary celebration. They raised $265,000 to permanently sponsor Delta Xi undergraduate participation in such programs as The John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle, The Peter F. Greiner Leadership College, The Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge and other General Fraternity leadership opportunities. In the spring of 2006, 26 men joined the recolonized ranks of this proud chapter, which immediately ranked first in grades among all EKU fraternities. These men celebrated with the alumni and were visibly moved by the impressive turnout. At one point, the undergraduates even serenaded the Beta ladies who were in attendance. The weekend-long event included a golf tournament, alumni reception, annual meeting and the celebration banquet. More than 150 alumni, founding fathers, original Alpha Chi Alphas, undergraduates, friends, sweethearts and campus dignitaries attended the celebrations. During her visit with the chapter, Eastern Kentucky University President Joanna Glasser had this to say, “Remember that homecoming is not the only time for you to come home.” Certainly, with the future looking as bright as it does in Richmond, Kentucky, there are many reasons for the brothers of Delta Xi to look forward to the next 35 years. - S. Brylski

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The Beta Theta Pi


35th ANNIVERSARIES

TEXAS-ARLINGTON When General Secretary Richard R. (Misty) Shoop, Denison ’41, presented the University of Texas-Arlington colony with an official charter 35 years ago, Delta Rho became an officially recognized chapter of Beta Theta Pi. Accepting the charter was the colony president, who stood in an ivory tuxedo, ruffled shirt, long sideburns and thick moustache. His “trendy” fashion was, to say the least, in stark contrast to General Secretary Shoop’s military sensibilities. At that very moment, however, they were united in bonds of friendship and fidelity. The Chapter remains one of a small percentage in Beta’s Broad Domain to have never been shutdown or reorganized. Suffice it to say the group struggled with numbers and internal upheaval along the way, but the 35th Anniversary Banquet on November 18, marked the tremendous achievements and bright future for the Chapter. It is a celebration of rich tradition and strong bonds. Ed Wenzel, Texas-Arlington ’72, addresses a captive audience of more than 150 people. Even without the long shaggy hair and ivory tuxedo, he is recognizable as the same man who shook hands with then-General Secretary Shoop. “So 35 years later, none of us would have guessed that we’d be sitting here in a nice facility, having a nice Founder’s Day Formal,” said Wenzel. The facility he is referring to is located on the 48th floor of the Thanksgiving Tower in the heart of downtown Dallas. Guests pack

Colin Cannon ’07

into the exclusive Columbia room of the Tower Club that features panoramic views of the Dallas cityscape and beyond. With more than 150 undergraduates, alumni, sweethearts and guests in attendance, the anniversary ranks as one of the largest in Delta Rho history. Wenzel stands closely to the other charter members and five of the original founding fathers (below), gesturing to each and recognizing them for their years of dedication. Each has a grin spread evenly across his face, looking out toward the evening’s attendees, eyes beaming proudly.

“We had an opportunity to bring the first new fraternity on campus,” offered Minter. “That was an exciting time and an exciting opportunity for us. I think we saw that the local fraternities were all steeped in local traditions but not true national fraternities. Our goal was to bring a top national fraternity onto campus. I think we were Betas from the very beginning.” Delta Rho took great pride in separating itself from its peers. The Chapter was not content with fitting into the mold of other UTA organizations. They chose to be different, an idealogy that seems to have permeated through the years and sit comfortably with the undergraduate chapter. Recently, they decided to partner with the Men of Principle initiative. Chapter President Dan Ogle ’07 gives his thoughts to the success of Delta Rho. “We haven’t had the biggest chapter, but what we have is a genuine love for Beta and a great brotherhood. We have brothers who really care about each other that work really hard to make Delta Rho great here. So the sky is the limit.”

(L to R) Larry Minter ’72, John Earnest ’72, Ed Wenzel ’72, Kirk Gay ’72 and Ted McKinney ’72

In 1971, a few earnest young men sat together in what would essentially become the first meeting of the Delta Rho. Unhappy with the campus Greek system they created their own fraternity, fully intending to seek out international affiliation at a later date. Larry Minter ’72 led the charge in this regard and mentions his feelings about Beta Theta Pi.

Ed Wenzel ’72

In a state like Texas, where it is commonly said that everything is bigger, using the sky as a measuring stick can seem daunting. As Delta Rho continues to build a chapter that will last through the years, the brothers revel in such lofty goals. They understand that their chapter will outlast the brothers who make it up. They understand that Delta Rho will outlast the undergraduates and the alumni, the famous Betas who come to visit and, most importantly, it will outlast the “trendy” fashion decisions of an era. - S. Brylski

Wayne Huddleston ’98

Darrell Amsden ’85

Winter 2007

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[Campus Life]

An update of each chapter’s performance in relation to the Standard Chapter Operating Expectations is included following its report. Items that

30

appear in RED reflect a failure to meet the standard. “N/A” for academics indicates no report. “N/A” for ritual indicates incomplete ritual performance verification. SCOE data is accurate as of 1/15/07. The Beta Theta Pi


Alabama (∆Θ)

Delta Theta has seen another very successful semester in philanthropy, campus leadership and recruitment. We initiated 28 young men who are already becoming leaders on campus. New member, Wilson Boardman ’10, became involved in Freshman Forum and other influential campus groups. Several active members of the Fraternity have continued our Chapter’s leadership on campus. David Daily ’08 is an ambassador for the College of Communication and Pete Silliman ’08 is an SGA senator and is involved in Capstone Men and Women. Our new house is under construction and is expected to be finished April 1. Delta Theta donated to the Fraternal Order of Police and the “Beat Auburn, Beat Hunger” food drive. – Brian D. Reynolds ’08, secretary, 205-344-2644, reyno006@bama.ua.edu Advisors: 7 Members: 84 Academic: 2.85

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Arizona (∆Β)

A highlight of the semester was a basketball clinic that members of the Chapter put on for children at the Boys and Girls Club. In the highly competitive selection process, four Delta Betas were selected to be part of Chain Gang Junior Honorary, which limits its membership to only 35 juniors campus wide. Two Delta Beta brothers serve on Bobcats Senior Honorary, a similar organization limited to only 13 seniors, including Matthew S. Haberman ’07 who serves as president of the organization. Cameron B. Warner ’07 was elected VP of Programming for IFC. The Chapter held an annual Homecoming Alumni Banquet and inducted three alumni into the Delta Beta Hall of Fame. – Justin T. Green ’07, secretary, 520-603-9546, jgreen@email.arizona.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 91 Academic: 3.01

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Auburn (∆Ζ)

This semester has been another outstanding one for Delta Zeta. There was an increase in the house GPA and the number of brothers in new campus positions. The Chapter also finished second in the flag football tournament, and we are in the hunt for the all sports championship. We also held the annual golf outing to the benefit of the Big Oak Ranch. We look forward to another exciting semester. – Nicholas C. Gonzalez ’07, public relations chairman, 205-422-6609, gonzanc@auburn.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 163 Academic: 2.81

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Baylor (∆Ψ)

This fall marked several noteworthy accomplishments for Delta Psi. Brothers built their Class A float for Baylor’s homecoming parade, the largest collegiate parade in the nation. As part of the homecoming festivities, Alumni chairman Bennett Hoefer ‘07 put together a successful alumni banquet. Delta Psi initiated the Alpha Alpha pledge class of four outstanding young men. New member Sam Sledge ’09 is a member of the varsity football squad. The chapter won the flag-football championship for the second year in a row, and participated in the AllUniversity competition. Vice President Brian McLachlan ’07, gained admittance into the BEST program, a two-semester class composed of the top-28 seniors in the business school. Members participated in a clean-up of the adopted portion of highway. — Brett H. Messerall ’09, president, 832515-7037, brett_messerall@baylor.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 31 Academic: 3.01

Convention: Yes Finance: $771.39 RM: Satisfactory

Bethany (Ψ)

No report submitted. Advisors: 5 Convention: Yes Members: 7 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 2.89 RM: Excellent

Binghamton (EY) No report submitted. Advisors: 5 Convention: No Members: 10 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 2.7 RM: Unsatisfactory

British Columbia (ΓΟ)

After successfully pledging a class of 19 men, we had an outstanding showing at the second annual Bob Baldwin Strongman Competition, which raised more than $1,500 for the Canadian Cancer Foundation. Gamma Omicron also had five new inductees into the Order of Omega: Karim Bandali ’07, Rob McLean ’10, Dave Milligan ’08, Scott Woron ’07 and Dima Yagnyuk ’09. – Peter S. Kearney ’07, treasurer, 604-6167124, seankearney@shaw.ca Advisors: 5 Members: 74 Academic: 3.28

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Cal Poly (Ε∆)

In addition to some difficult changes that our chapter is making, we have some exciting events planned for the spring. This April, we will work closely with the S.L.O. County Food Bank to assist in their highly publicized food drive, cosponsored by the local news station, KCOY. In sports achievements, the Big West Conference selected tennis player, Matthew Baca ’07 as the Player of the Week for defeating the #26 nationally ranked player according to the FILA Collegiate Tennis Rankings. Our chapter is looking for improved alumni relations and support. Building on last fall’s success, we will hold another alumni banquet in October. We are looking to form an alumni advisory committee to the chapter and urge you to respond if you have any interest in helping us. We need as much alumni assistance as possible and welcome any advice, guidance or leadership assistance. – Jerad M. Ellenberger ’08, president, 707-301-1714, jellenbe@calpoly.edu Advisors: 2 Members: 35 Academic: 2.92

Convention: No Finance: $8,240.97 RM: Unsatisfactory

Cal State-Chico (ΕΙ)

Midway through the fall semester, the men of Epsilon Iota participated in numerous philanthropy events including a clean-up of Annie’s Glen and Notre Dame Catholic School. We set up a Halloween haunted house for the Boys & Girls Club, our designated charitable organization. With participation in “Up ‘til Dawn,” a letter writing contest that benefits St. Jude’s Children’s Hospitals and our plan to “Adopta-Family” for the holidays, we will have more than eight philanthropy events this semester. In sports, our intramural teams winning or placing second in the league in football, soccer, volleyball and bowling. Chris (Vu) Vongsarath ’07 and Mike Murphy ’08 are staff writers on the award-winning student newspaper, The Orion. – Chris Vongsarath ’06, secretary, 209-499-2355, cvongsarath@mail.csuchico.edu Advisors: 1 Members: 45 Academic: 2.57

Convention: Yes Finance: $3,599.99 RM: Unsatisfactory

Cal-Berkeley (Ω)

While improving its relationship with the University, the Omega Chapter worked alongside its advisory team to take positive this fall semester. With an emphasis placed on recruitment, the Chapter welcomed a pledge class of 10. In addition, with the ritual assistance of the San Jose State Chapter, we have initiated two new members: Brian Bichelli ’09 and Matthew Busch ’09. The Chapter participated in Winter 2007

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various service opportunities, including the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Many brothers participated in Cal varsity athletics in the fall, including football, rugby and swimming, while others participated in club sports, including lacrosse and sailing. Chris Wenner ’09 was named the ninth best single-handed collegiate sailor in the United States and plans on working towards the Olympics after graduation. – Michael G. Darby ’08, secretary, 650-779-7031, midarby@berkeley.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 46 Academic: 2.93

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

California-Irvine (∆Σ)

The young Delta Sigma Colony at UC-Irvine has pinned the largest pledge class since its founding father class of 19. The 15 fall pledges exceeded expectations as of the middle of their pledging process and have developed an outstanding camaraderie. The Colony also eagerly awaits its second election process as the first full-term administration prepares itself for officer transitions. Amid the groundbreaking that the Colony has achieved in its first full year of self-governance, an undefeated IFC volleyball team and playoff-berthed football team in this fall’s sports have added a sparkle to its many successes. The Delta Sigma Colony at UC-Irvine looks forward to the coming Convention in Orlando where it will present its application for chartering. – Peter B. Gabrio ’07, president, 831-8189672, pgabrio@uci.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 41 Academic: 3.07

Convention: Yes Finance: $480.29 RM: Satisfactory

California-Los Angeles (ΓΝ)

After pledging 17 men in the beginning of the fall quarter, the Chapter initiated 15 outstanding men. This brings the chapter to 45 men and a total of 1,717 brothers since its founding in 1926. Last spring, the Chapter boasted an average GPA of 3.299, far above the all-men’s and all-fraternity averages. Four brothers earned a 4.0 and 15 others earned above a 3.5. The Chapter continues its strong leadership with Terry Frink ’07 as GAMMA chairman for IFC. The Chapter is in preparation for several large service activities in the coming quarter. www. betabruins.com. – Ryan P. Hall, president, 925-786-3304, ryanhall@ucla.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 46 Academic: 3.3

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The Beta Theta Pi

Convention: Yes Finance: $1,031.30 RM: Satisfactory

California-Santa Barbara (ΕΠ)

After the help received during the Convention review, the Chapter dedicated itself to paying off the debt to the General Fraternity and has had accomplished much towards this goal. Furthermore, the Chapter successfully recruited 26 new members, one of the largest pledge classes in chapter history. The Chapter elected David J. Walker ’08 to the position of president for 2007, along with a number of younger members to executive board positions. The Chapter plans to continue year around recruitment, brotherhood accountability and positive pledge education. – Benjamin J. Gocke ’07, president, 661-305-7834, bgocke@umail.ucsb.edu Advisors: 2 Members: 47 Academic: 3.04

Convention: Yes Finance: $4,152.15 RM: Satisfactory

Carleton (ΕΨ)

The men at Carleton have plenty to celebrate. This fall celebrated the 15th anniversary of Epsilon Upsilon’s installation, and recruitment brought in eight pledges who promise to become great Betas; the Chapter is expanding its role in the community with the adoption of Bronson Road; and many of the younger men are stepping into leadership roles. Momentum is going forward and picking up steam. We are all excited to see how high we can go! — Fraser L. MacQuarrie ’08, president, 613-863-7170, frasermacquarrie@gmail.com Advisors: 5 Convention: Yes Members: 19 Finance: $868.30 Academic: 2.95 RM: Unsatisfactory

Carnegie Mellon (ΓΙ)

The house renovations went as expected and the Chapter now enjoys a fully renovated facility. Academically, the Chapter achieved the fourth highest fraternity GPA of 3.17, which is also above the All Men’s Average. Furthermore, the Chapter has instituted a community service policy for all of its members, requiring that all members complete 25 hours of community service each semester. By setting a precedent for philanthropic excellence, Gamma Iota plans to be the leader in service in the Greek community. The Carnegie Mellon football team, of which 55 members are Betas, recently won UAA championship and went undefeated in regular season play with a 10-0 record. Aaron Lewis ’07 was selected as an All-American in multiple publications and was a Draddy Award semi-finalist. The Chapter looks forward to initiating our 25 new members. – Cody J. Vild ’08, secretary, 412-862-2647, cvild@andrew.cmu.edu

Advisors: 4 Members: 79 Academic: 3.17

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Case Western Reserve

(ΛΚΒ) The Lambda Kappa-Beta Chapter of Case Western Reserve University found much of its efforts noticed internationally as they earned the Virginia Tech Award for Academic Excellence and the Most Improved Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at the 167th Convention in Toronto. With energy high, we serenaded every sorority on campus. With the induction of six pledges, energy remained high as the chapter placed second in Anchorsplash, a philanthropy event, followed by tying for first in Standards with a score of 95 out of 100. – David C. Bartholomew ’06, 216-754-1907, david. bartholomewc@gmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 16 Academic: 3.39

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Central Florida

(ΖΨ) The brothers of the Zeta Psi have set a new standard this semester, beginning with five brothers selected to the Order of Omega. Other facets of campus involvement have been on the rise with two brothers elected as senators to the Student Government Association. Brett Lipensky ’07 was elected IFC president and Michael Mollo ’08 was elected IFC vice president of risk management. Marc Berkovits ’08 served on the executive board for Homecoming, with Carlos Gonzalez ’07 representing Beta on Homecoming Court. Our annual UCF Idol event raised more than $5000 for the National MS Society. Dozens of family members attended dinner, tailgating, UCF football and bowling events. – Jason K. Holic ’08, secretary, 941-544-4415, jason. holic@gmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 80 Academic: 2.91

Convention: Yes Finance: $70.88 RM: Unsatisfactory

Central Michigan (ΕΓ)

Through successful Recruitment Through Scholarship and other recruitment programs, we plan to initiate the largest pledge class since our recolonization. These new members have been integrated smoothly and are eager to take on leadership positions. We would like to say thank you to all of our alumni that returned for the Homecoming festivities. We always appreciate your support! Moving into the new house in the upcoming months, we have a lot of momentum. Our solid executive team will push the chapter toward great things. – Brandyn K. Lawson ’09,


president, 810-537-2257, lawso1bk@cmich. edu Advisors: 6 Members: 15 Academic: 2.96

Convention: Yes Finance: $4.28 RM: Satisfactory

Cincinnati (ΒΝ)

The brothers of Beta Nu started the quarter off with a great kickoff retreat and are keeping the brotherhood strong this fall quarter with a packed social schedule. We are also keeping active with the best intramural football team we have had since our championship winning team of 2003. In the recruitment department, Beta Nu has nine pledges. With a great pledge class and a strengthening sense of brotherhood, Beta Nu knows that this will make for an exciting year. – Jason T. Steinhauer ’06, treasurer, 513-515-0259, steinhjt@email.uc.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 41 Academic: 3.08

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Clemson (∆Ν)

The Delta Nu Chapter hosted the second annual “Gathering” of local alumni from the ’60s and current Delta Nu upperclassmen to celebrate the traditions and rich history of the Chapter. For the second time in as many years, the Chapter’s homecoming float placed second in competition. Lindsey R. Cole ’07 and John B. Thomas ’09 were inducted into the Blue Key National Honor Society. The Chapter successfully recruited 13 new members. – John B. Thomas ’08, president, 864-921-9997, jbt@clemson.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 62 Academic: 3.23

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Colgate (ΒΘ)

Last spring, Beta Theta’s overall GPA was 3.10. We initiated 25 new members who have the highest cumulative GPA of a new member class in two years. On October 6-7, we held an Alumni Weekend event in which alumni from the 1950s and 1980s gathered at the house for dinner and cocktails. On October 28, Grady O’Gara ’07 and David Hoffman ’07 organized a charity auction for the Madison County Children’s Summer Camp, raising more than $10,000 in donations. Furtherdmore, we participated in Up ‘Til Dawn — a fundraising event for St. Jude’s Hospital. We sent out more than 1,100 donation requests to chapter alums. – Benjamin R. Smith ’07, president, 781413-1273, bsmith@mail.colgate.edu Advisors: 6 Members: 73 Academic: 3.1

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Colorado Mines

Connecticut (ΖΧ)

(ΒΦ) The Beta Phi pledge class, though low in numbers is driven to be the future of our great organization. After an award-filled summer, the brothers strive even harder to contribute to our school, community and each other. We are looking forward to the largest annual Ski-a-thon in the spring, coordinated by Adam Noelck ’07. Four undergraduates are running for positions within the school and Greek legislative committees with the aim of developing an even stronger relationship with our community. As we progress into the spring, we look forward to the possibility of our first spring rush in a number of years. We would also like to extend a big thank you to our alumni as they continually prepare for the construction of a new house next year. – Zachary C. Savit ’08, public relations chairman, 703-217-0565, zcs007@aol.com

Zeta Chi is more than excited after winning its first John Reily Knox Award at the 167th General Convention. We are working hard to maintain this level of excellence, as evidenced by our continued involvement in the Greek life community. Charles Workman ’07 won Pi Beta Phi’s annual Arrowman competition and Jose Arriaga ’07 was named Delta Gamma’s Anchorman. Arriaga also serves as vice president of recruitment and Andrew Callahan ’07 is the president of IFC. Kevin Rooney ’09 and others are working on an ambitious fundraising project to ensure Zeta Chi’s presence at leadership opportunities, especially the Keystone Leadership Conference. Finally, we have extended the bonds of brotherhood to 13 great pledges this semester, our largest class to date. – Evan J. Parzych ’07, secretary, 860-7487708, evan.parzych@uconn.edu

Advisors: 5 Members: 48 Academic: 2.91

Advisors: 4 Members:41 Academic: 3.35

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Colorado State (ΕΚ)

The Chapter is in high gear coming into the last semester before petitioning to charter this summer in Orlando. Hopes are high and visions are strong. We won the Greek Homecoming competition for the second year in a row, and have had the highest fraternity average for the 6th semester in a row. Things are looking great for the Chapter – Andrew R. Murlowski ’07, secretary, 970-420-7599, uofm2008@yahoo.com Advisors: 2 Members: 33 Academic: 2.97

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.85 RM: Unsatisfactory

Columbia (ΑΑ) The brothers of Alpha Alpha are in a particularly high spirit after having regained our charter. Our pledges are participating in PROJECT FOR THE HOMELESS, in which they help to set up homeless shelters. The brotherhood has already participated in MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER . Alpha Alpha remains well ahead of GPA requirements with an average of 3.56. Additionally, brothers continue to hold leadership positions in a variety of on- and off-campus activities. Of particular note, Ashish Kundra ’08 has taken the year off to start a website for college event ticketing. – Easwaran Cumarasamy ’08, secretary, 212-853-2349, ec2249@columbia.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 37 Academic: 3.44

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Cornell (Β∆)

From philanthropic activities to sports to attracting new members, Beta Delta at Cornell University is at a high point. The first good news is that our chapter initiated a program for undergraduates to act as mentors for children aged 8-12. Apart from donating our time to this program, brothers have been avidly participating in intramural sports including soccer, hockey and flag football. Although the house is beginning to show its age, the Chapter is working hard to keep our home in top shape with new renovations and house projects, as well as a sound schedule of general cleaning. – Alan Arnedo ’09, secretary, 516-9016826, apa24@cornell.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 30 Academic: 3.45

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Denison (ΑΗ)

During the spring semester, Alpha Eta was ranked first in grades at Denison. The Colony established its official philanthropy and held two fundraisers. During the summer, more than half of the brothers attended a General Fraternity leadership program. Beta is the only fraternity on campus with more than one chair on the IFC: Mete Tuzcu ’07 (vice president of public relations and Daniel Whitlow ’07 (vice president of recruitment.) Tuzcu created a new anti-hazing educational program. The Colony received 12 Awards during the 2006 Denison Greek Awards Ceremony. The Colony keeps pushing to increase the success rate of Winter 2007

33


recruitment. This semester, Alpha Etas had the largest fall pledge class of the seven fraternities at Denison. We are looking forward to another highly successful recruitment period during the spring semester. – Mete Tuzcu ’07, secretary, 740587-8378, tuzcu_m@denison.edu Advisors:5 Members: 20 Academic: 3.26

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Denver (ΑΖ)

We have been keeping busy this quarter with academics and multiple philanthropy events. We participated in Delta Delta Delta’s Cancer Strikeout and Lambda Chi Alpha’s canned food drive. Our first annual Beta 500, coordinated by Ken Nicolay ’09 and Zach Gordon ’09, was a success and we raised $1,000 for the National Jewish Research and Medical Center. We hosted our third annual Hall of Fame Induction with Ronald Yegge ’28, Robert Yegge ’58, David Kerr ’47 and Richard Evans ’66 were inducted. These men have exemplified the principles of Beta Theta Pi by their dedication to the Chapter, service to the community and excellence in their professional fields. The Chapter initiated 10 new members. – Michael K. Berthold ’08, secretary, 206351-1110, MBerthol@du.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 34 Academic: 2.9

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

DePauw (∆)

The Delta house GPA was a 3.09, helped by a pledge class carrying a 3.16, which was the second highest pledge GPA on the campus. The Chapter will initiate one new member this fall. The Delta chapter has had two successful philanthropies for the Big Walnut Sports Park and another one for the Humane Society in Greencastle. Kevin McEvoy ’07 was elected IFC vice president of new member education. The Young brothers, Zach ’07 and Michael ’07, serve as cocaptains of the swim team. Jordan Voss ’07, captain of the golf team, led the team with three top 10 finishes and two top five finishes this year. Tyler Orabone ’07 and Matthew Seal ’07 lead the rugby team this year. Brandon Money ’07 founded, and was elected president of the Kinesiology Club. Daniel Moon ’08 and Brock Sishc ’08 were both accepted into the Order of Omega. An Alumni Board quarterly meeting was held Nov. 11. Another Delta Beta from the class of ’66 was named outstanding alumni of the year by DePauw University. – Kyle P. Booher ’09, public relations chairman, 765618-2777, kylebooher_2009@depauw.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 45 Academic: 2.9 34

The Beta Theta Pi

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Duke

No report submitted. Advisors: 3 Convention: Yes Members: 26 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 3.14 RM: Unsatisfactory

East Carolina (ΕΑ)

The brothers of Epsilon Alpha have recruited a dedicated and fun group of young men including an NC Teaching Fellow and two honor students. Keith Tingley, the newly appointed assistant director of Greek Life, has expressed a great interest in helping Beta succeed. Epsilon Alpha ran and organized a haunted house for a local Boys and Girls Club. Betas reunited once again during our Homecoming with a catered BBQ. We look forward to yet another brilliant semester and hope to hold the highest all-men’s GPA on campus for the fifth consecutive time. – Matthew G. Levtzow ’07, president, 252328-8163, mg10306@ecu.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 21 Academic: 2.79

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Eastern Kentucky (∆Ξ)

The Delta Xi colony at Eastern Kentucky University has had quite an impressive first active semester! Our 3.26 GPA, active community and University involvement, and persistence in creating positive change summarize the hard work necessary for the success of a new colony. We had hard lessons to learn with our first recruitment and new member education. We have grown from 24 good men to 31 great Betas. Our campus reputation continues to grow after competing in multiple sorority events. We are working throughout campus in various leadership positions, from the branches of student government to the IFC. We look forward to the challenges of the upcoming semester. - Brandon R. Burtner ’09, secretary, brandonburtner@gmail.com Advisors:6 Members: 31 Academic: 3.26

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Eastern Washington

(ΕΩ) The men of Epsilon Omega started the quarter off with great ambitions for the coming year. Alumni returned for the Homecoming game, which provided time for fellowship. The children’s carnival at the local elementary school is under way and big plans are being made to ensure a fun filled night for the local families of Cheney. The Chapter initiated seven

pledges in January. We are optimistic for what they can provide in the future. – Jason L. Wilcox ’08, secretary, 509-294-0569, jasonissmooth@yahoo.com Advisors: 6 Members: 31 Academic: 3.02

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Emory (ΓΥ)

Gamma Upsilon began the school year with nothing but continued hard work after its achievements last year, which culminated in a Knox Award at the Convention in Toronto. The Chapter held a dinner at the house inviting all alumni of the Emory chapter. Those present included former General Treasurer John H. Stebbins ’92. The dinner also marked the promotion of Chapter Counselor Jim Delaney ’68 as the new district chief of UGA, Emory and Georgia Tech. The Chapter raised more than $3,000 for Breakthrough Atlanta and St. Jude’s Hospital this past Halloween. The Chapter continues to maintain its service by teaching every other Saturday of the month. In addition to these endeavors, the Chapter has attended several functions regarding alcohol awareness and drunk driving. – Ghian P. Yap ’08, secretary, 786-3015052, gyap@emory.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 62 Academic: 3.26

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Florida (ΓΞ)

Gamma Xi initiated 29 new members. We continued our success in philanthropic events by winning Delta Gamma’s Anchor Splash for the second consecutive year and placing third in Zeta Tau Alpha’s line dance. Our fall intramural teams (flag football, softball, tennis and racquetball) all completed undefeated seasons moving us toward a Greek Intramural Championship. We recommitted ourselves to the community by acting as mentors to the children of a local elementary school. – Patrick R. Carr ’09, secretary, 813-9560987, prcarr@ufl.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 138 Academic: 3.01

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Florida Atlantic (Ζ∆)

This fall we recruited 12 new members, one of our most successful recruitments in history. These new members are the key to the future success of our Chapter. Once again we have ranked first in grades, surpassing the All Fraternity Average. We had our inaugural Wooglin Wedge Golf Tournament and a planning for a Fraternal Fifties Banquet. Special congratulations to Glen Lerner ’97 and Kendew Gordorn ’98 for their new titles as assistant district


chief and chapter counselor and special thanks to Joe Kokojan, Oklahoma ’05 for his continued support. – Nicolas L. Jones '07, president. Advisors: 3 Members: 29 Academic:2.83

Convention: Yes Finance: $307.24 RM: Satisfactory

Florida International

After a formative fall semester, the FIU Colony is making progress on campus. As a result of sending three members to the John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle, the Beta spirit has been renewed within the Colony. Six men were inducted and are anticipated to be initiated in January. While the sun is shining in Florida, the Beta stars shine even brighter, guiding the FIU Colony! – Andre’ Hopman ’07, philanthropic chair, 305-498-8803, xreadermeetsauthorx@mac. com Advisors: 5 Members: 24 Academic: 2.47

Convention: Yes Finance: $772.59 RM: Unsatisfactory

George Washington

(ΖΝ) This fall semester has been busy, but very successful for our young Chapter. Joshua Lasky ’07 was elected executive vice president of our Student Association. Josh is excited and hopes to improve the visibility of Beta Theta Pi on campus. This fall we recruited an 11-man pledge class, matching the largest pledge class in our Chapter’s history. Among this pledge class, there are numerous campus and athletic leaders: two varsity crew members, one varsity cross country member, one varsity squash member and the vice president of the International Affairs Society. In the coming weeks, we will be reapplying for our University-owned townhouse; all signs suggest we will be granted another lease. All of the brothers are very excited about the future of the Chapter and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. – Alexander J. Foster ’08, secretary, 201-919-0351, afost@gwu.edu Advisors: 3 Members: 41 Academic: 3.05

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Georgia (ΕΕ)

Epsilon Epsilon is proud to report the success of our pledge program as 29 young men continue to learn about our Chapter and Fraternity. We are currently working closely with our Housing Corporation to begin construction on an extension to the house, which would give us living space for 13 additional brothers

as well as a new chapter room. Meanwhile, the Chapter has begun work on Choral Cup, our spring philanthropy benefiting American Cancer Society. The event brings a number of sororities and other interested groups together for an a cappella singing competition. Finally, we hope to strengthen relations with our alumni by hosting several events at the University and other central locations. Brothers of Epsilon Epsilon continue to be involved with various prominent organizations on campus including: Student Government Association, Club and Intramural Sports, Student Ambassadors and several honor societies. – Claude S. Rankin ’08, secretary, 404-2029026, csrankin@uga.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 101 Academic: 3.25

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Georgia Tech (ΓΗ) This past year Gamma Eta won both the Sisson and Knox awards. This was the 24th consecutive year that our chapter has won the Sisson award. We had a very successful fall rush and gained 25 quality pledges. The Chapter provided the majority of the man power for the Atlanta Dogwood Festival for a week, which is our biggest philanthropy of the year, and helped raise more than $400,000 for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The Chapter was recognized by Head Basketball Coach Paul Hewitt during the Georgia Tech and Duke men’s basketball game. This philanthropy benefits children in Georgia with HIV and AIDS and was founded by a Beta at the University of Georgia. Beta finished second in philanthropy, second in academics with a 3.13 GPA and third in athletics among all of the fraternities on campus. Our biggest project that is taking place right now is a new retaining wall for our front yard. The project will cost around $20,000 and we are well on our way thanks to the many alumni that have donated by buying a brick for the wall. – Jesse B. Kent ’10, secretary, 770841-1428, gth688f@mail.gatech.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 83 Academic: 3.12

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

HampdenSydney (Ζ)

The Zeta Colony has been busy. We’ve conducted multiple recruiting sessions, including a video presentation. The brothers also just completed our second annual Beta Pumpkin Patch, giving away pumpkins to local families in the community. The second annual Tom Edwards Scholarship was given to Jack Ruddy, a freshman with outstanding potential. As always, the brothers of the Zeta Colony are forever striving to uphold the principles and obligations of Beta Theta

Pi and proudly work to earn their badge every day. – Clay Whittaker ’09, treasurer, 434-223-7051, whittakerg@hsc.edu Advisors: 2 Members: 14 Academic: 2.84

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Hanover (Ι)

The college set benchmarks for the Chapter to accomplish, and the Chapter has been making progress in these areas. We have been able to raise around $600 dollars to donate to the March of Dimes Foundation, organized by Brock Dawson ’08. We are currently in the progress of organizing a clothing drive, which is being set up by Noel Somarriba ’08. We have many football players in our chapter. Although the team has struggled, Bobby Smart ’09 and Dustin Stewart ’07 have each been named HCAC Offensive Player of the Week in our conference on separate occasions. We look forward to continued improvement during the remainder of the semester in the Iota Chapter. – Andrew J. Houtsch ’07, president, 812-866-6136, houtscha@hanover.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 29 Academic: 2.45

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Idaho (ΓΓ)

The fall was very good to the Gamma Gamma Chapter. We worked hard during summer recruitment and, as a result, welcomed 22 new pledges to 727 Elm. Our ultimate frisbee team won the Intramural Championship for the second time in three years. Our soccer team played well and made it to the semi-finals. Homecoming was a great time as the house hosted a dinner that welcomed alumni and their families. Our philanthropic efforts have proved to be successful. We hosted our second annual Box Lunch Social and raised $1,400 for Alternatives to Violence on the Palouse. The Gamma Gamma Chapter is continuing to strive for excellence and remains dedicated to building men of principle. – Pat K. Harwood ’07, secretary, 208-885-6251, harw9115@uidaho.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 77 Academic: 3.22

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Illinois (ΣΡ) No chapter report submitted. Advisors: 2 Convention: Yes Members: 121 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 2.84 RM: Satisfactory

Winter 2007

35


Indiana (Π) A carefully executed recruitment campaign led by Recruitment Director Michael Esworthy ’08 throughout the month of September resulted in success as the Pi Chapter welcomed a pledge class of 28 outstanding men. Pledges repeatedly cited the genuine friendliness and cohesiveness they noticed amongst the brothers as reasons for choosing Beta over other prominent fraternities. Beta holds the highest allfraternity GPA, which certainly helped in recruitment. The intramural football team ousted several fraternities that are traditional favorites on campus. The Pi chapter is pleased to have graduated 20% of its 60 active members from summer leadership programs and has renewed its commitment to mentor young boys at The Rise, Bloomington’s middleway house. – Mitch A. Baidinger ’08, secretary, 219308-8291, mbaiding@indiana.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 89 Academic: 3.24

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Iowa (ΑΒ)

The fall of 2006 has been another busy semester for the Alpha Beta Colony at Iowa. The Colony moved into a newly renovated house and went through the first formal recruitment. The house exceeded all expectations and the new pledges are great group of guys. The Colony was third in grades, participated in Homecoming for the first time and won fourth place for a skit. We are very excited to create a great reputation on our campus and look forward to the rest of the year. – Matthew L. Petti ’08, secretary, 680-699-2612, matthewpetti@uiowa.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 25 Academic: 2.97

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Iowa State (ΤΣ)

The Tau Sigma Colony is making a strong impression in its first semester back at Iowa State University. Tau Sigma was recolonized this fall with a founding father class of 20 men of varied ages, talents and backgrounds. They have set lofty goals for academic achievement and have dedicated many hours to community projects such as visiting assisted-living facilities and building new recreational bicycle trails. The men of Tau Sigma are already leaders on campus. Five men are current or former members of the President’s Leadership Class. Brothers also participate in Freshmen Council and residence hall positions. At Homecoming, Tau Sigma alumni were welcomed back to the renovated chapter house and met the Founding Fathers at a tailgate preceding 36

The Beta Theta Pi

the football game. The Founding Fathers are currently recruiting new members for the Alpha pledge class, who will be initiated in the spring of 2007. – Erik M. Petersen ’09, epeterse@iastate.edu Advisors: 6 Members: 20 Academic: 2.75

Convention: No Finance: $0.16 RM: Unsatisfactory

Johns Hopkins (ΑΧ) The Alpha Chi Chapter is proud to have received its first Sisson Award in six years at the 167th General Convention. Also this summer, two brothers participated in The Institute for Men of Principle, a first for our Chapter. We continue our strong commitment to community service helping to clean the Wyman Dell Park every month. Our recruitment efforts have also increased and, for the first time in several years, we have more than 20 active members. Maxwell Taylor ’09 will be appearing in the movie Mr. Brooks, starring Kevin Costner. Bryan Curtain ’07 has been published in the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry for his research in neural protection against chemical warfare agents. Finally, we would like to wish Sheng Li ’06 luck as he pursues an advanced degree in international relations from the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C. – Isaac D. Jenabi ’09, secretary, 310-714-9340, shadowwolfy@gmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 30 Academic: 3.1

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Kansas (ΑΝ)

We undertook a large philanthropy project during the fall semester as our Chapter sent care packages to troops oversees. Our members continue to hold leadership roles throughout campus programs including honors societies, IFC and Rock Chalk Review (the University of Kansas’ philanthropic variety show.) Scott Ferguson ’07 won the prestigious Ex.C.E.L. award. Our Chapter is leading in intramurals and we look to win the athletic season again this year. In October, more than 200 alumni returned for homecoming and a dedication of the new addition to the house. The new addition is an impressive patio donated by the pledge class of 1980. – Peter G. Rodriguez ’09, secretary, 314-378-0904, prod@ku.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 92 Academic: 3.5

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Kansas State (ΓΕ)

Gamma Epsilon held its annual philanthropy event, Beta BOO, on Halloween night after turning the house into a “Haunted Mansion” for kids.

The Chapter raised more than $1,000 in addition to a 35-gallon tub of canned goods for the Flint Hills Breadbasket, a non-profit community food network. Matthew King ’07 was a winner of the Udall Scholarship. We look to defend our title for a third time this year. Distinguished alumnus Warren Staley ’65 made a visit to the house during the weekend of the Nebraska football game. Staley is the CEO of Cargill, Inc., the second largest privately held corporation in the world. – James E. Schwartz ’08, president, 316-259-0265, jschwart@ksu. edu Advisors: 5 Members: 93 Academic: 3.22

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Kenyon (ΒΑ)

Zack Space ’83 was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November, thanks in part to the tireless efforts of volunteers Jesse Oppenheim ’08 and Dave Driscoll ’08. Nine seniors completed their final season playing for the Kenyon Football Lords. They all had exceptional seasons and contributed greatly to the turn around of Kenyon’s football program. An alumni fund-raising program is underway to save and restore our historic Temple in the Woods. We look forward to a large and diverse pledge class in the spring and early signs indicate an excellent academic performance this fall. – Ariel O. Helfer ’08, secretary, 740-427-6773, helfera@kenyon.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 33 Academic: 3.22

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Knox (Ξ)

Philanthropy this year has been great for Xi Chapter. We participated in the Cardboard Boat Regatta in the fall, with proceeds donated to the community. We also participated in “Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat,” an event designed to help provide food to hungry children. For 2007, we are very excited to continue the tradition of the Polar Bear Plunge, a dip into the near freezing water of a local pond, which benefits the Special Olympics. We will also continue to have brothers participate in PALS, a program where volunteers spend time helping organize after school games for children. President Timothy Beishir ’08 was accepted into the Order of Omega. Jacob Kuhnline ’07 is the senior class president and president of the IFC. Aaron Willits ’08 and Kevin Corley ’08 were elected team captains for the 2007 Knox football team and Bryan Lund ’09 was elected cross country team captain. The school year has gotten off to a great start and we look forward to hosting an alumni golf outing in the Chicagoland area in the summer 2007. Stay tuned! – Tighe L. Burke


’09, secretary, 847-732-4662, tburke@knox. edu Advisors: 5 Members: 32 Academic: 2.81

Convention: Yes Finance: $633.50 RM: Unsatisfactory

Lawrence (ΓΠ)

We are excited about the prospects for our main rush period this winter. Our grades have soared to their highest point in several years with the chapter GPA reaching a 3.244. Our Chapter hosted its 16th annual Thanksgiving dinner for the elderly and low income residents of the Oneida Heights Senior Center. Several brothers are preparing to attend the Greek Leadership Conference hosted at Lawrence University. Many are putting on workshops designed to help and promote Greek life and chapter efficiency. – Dru M. Claar ’07, president, 920-832-7285, claard@lawrence.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 28 Academic: 3.11

Convention: Yes Finance: $268.52 RM: Unsatisfactory

Lehigh (ΒΧ)

With only six brothers returning to live in the house in the fall semester, the Chapter was dangerously close to losing the house because of Lehigh’s house occupancy rules. After the tremendous success of last year’s rush, the occupancy was exceeded and the actives now include 26 sophomores. We are fortunate to have such a large sophomore class. The new brothers have stepped up to lead the house in a positive direction. Throughout the fall semester, we have hosted various events in the house including a four-square tournament for charity. The most significant event was the Fraternal Fifties ceremony. Stuart Iliffe, Brian McHugh, Bruce Sahler, and Dick Schumacher of the class of 1960 were honored by receiving their Fraternal Fifties pin, as well as joining the actives and other alumni for the traditional loving cup ceremony. – Christopher P. Adamski ’09, secretary, 267-218-2287, cpa209@lehigh. edu Advisors: 4 Members: 36 Academic: 2.77

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Louisville (∆Π)

After winning a Sisson award for the second year in a row, Delta Pi has continued to strive for excellence. We have recruited one of the largest pledge classes Delta Pi has seen in four semesters. With continued help from our active members and our alumni, we are heading in a new direction. The Chapter is looking forward to the spring semester when we will be moving into a house on

Greek Row. The chapter is continuing to work on fund raising to renovate the new house. For more information on this and other information regarding the Delta Pi chapter, please visit our website at www.louisvillebeta.com. – Gregory L. Maggard ’07, president, 859-802-4664, glmagg01@louisville.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 36 Academic: 3.05

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Loyola Marymount

This is an exciting time in the Colony’s life; while solidifying our traditions and making a positive mark at LMU, we also are continuing our journey towards chartering and becoming an official chapter of Beta Theta Pi. We attained the highest fraternity GPA during the spring 2006 for the third straight semester with a 3.29 and, with a strong fall pledge class of 15, we plan to continue our streak. One of our founding fathers, Stephan Murphy ’07, was elected student body president and will continue his term throughout the school year. Graduated Alpha pledge class member and varsity basketball player, Chris Ayer ’06 is currently playing professionally for the Heat Devils in Oita, Japan. Collectively, we are marching along to a hopeful charter this summer. With concentrated effort and support from Beta’s Broad Domain, we will soon be a permanent part of Beta Theta Pi. – Lane R. Harper ’07, president, 206-819-3708, harper.lane@gmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 82 Academic: 3.29

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Maine (ΒΕ)

Beta Eta had another successful Homecoming weekend with many alumni coming back to visit the brothers and the house. Beta Eta has been blessed to have a newly renovated kitchen thanks to their housing corporation and the project foreman, James Purvis ’79. Brother Purvis was honored as the Alumnus of the Year for all of his time and work. The fall pledge class has 15 young men whom the brothers are confident will be great additions to Beta Eta. – Joshua B. Fortier ’06, secretary, 207-299-4970, joshua. fortier@umit.maine.edu Advisors: 3 Members: 42 Academic: 2.76

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Miami (Α)

The Chapter was crowned Greek Week Champs in an Olympic style test of athleticism in September. The Preppy Sports philanthropy, co-hosted by the Alpha chapter, benefited troops

in Iraq and local after-school programs. The sisters of Alpha Phi crowned Kayvon Golshani ’08 and Sean Berry ’09 King of Hearts for their talent performance in a patronage to raise cardiac awareness. Several undergraduates attended and sang at the honoring of Fred Brower ’50, who received the Shepardson Award. The Alpha Chapter house recently served as host to the Miami Community Luncheon. Several prominent guests from the Oxford Community and Miami University were in attendance, including new Miami University President David Hodge. – Jacob R. Whelan ’07, secretary, 440-813-4543, whelanjr@muohio.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 113 Academic: 3.25

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Miami (Florida)

The Colony at the University of Miami is eager and proud to not only make its name heard on campus, but also to the General Fraternity. Representing over seven countries and 15 American states, and includes seven valedictorians, seven Eagle Scouts, six resident assistants, four athletic captains, three salutatorians, two Junior ROTC students, two NCAA athletes, one Phi Beta Kappa and one National Merit Semi-Finalist — 61 men of varied backgrounds, all exuding the qualities of a man of principle, have come together to exemplify an outstanding chapter of Beta. Having already won an award for the largest group represented at a Homecoming community service event, we are constantly on the look-out for more prestigious men on the UM campus. Initiation for the founding fathers of this Colony occurred on January 26. – Gabriel A. Cambert ’10, secretary, 786-385-0716, gcambert@comcast.net Advisors: 5 Members: 62 Academic: N/A

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Michigan (Λ) We were thrilled this past spring when we were awarded the Sisson, as well as the North Dakota Award for Excellence in Chapter Publications. In October, we held our annual philanthropic event, Beta Carnival. Multiple fraternities and sororities across campus participated in the event and we were able to raise a substantial amount of money for the Lloyd Carr Cancer Foundation. After a very successful fall recruitment, we now have 28 new pledges that will be initiated later this winter. Finally we held an exciting alumni Homecoming weekend earlier this year where six Fraternal Fifties were recognized for their continuous dedication to the Chapter. – Patrick R. Armstrong ’08, secretary, 203Winter 2007

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731-1682, pastrong@umich.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 108 Academic: 3.16

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Middle Tennessee State (ΕΘ)

Epsilon Theta continues to work with philanthropic events including volunteering for a 9/11 memorial at the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department, helping run the Great Pumpkin Fest at the Children’s Discovery Center in Murfreesboro and bell ringing for the Salvation Army. Bryan Ellis ’08 served as a Student Orientation assistant and helped show potential students the MTSU campus. Jesse Roberts III ’07, Ross Johnson ’08 and Tyler Newman ’09 are all delegates for IFC with Michael Finney ’07 serving as the IFC Judicial Board president. – Ross P. Johnson ’08, president, 615-430-5407, rpj2d@mtsu.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 54 Academic: 2.61

Convention: Yes Finance: $976.66 RM: Unsatisfactory

Minnesota (ΒΠ) Beta Pi has been home to many great achievements and success stories recently. With a cumulative GPA of 3.19 last semester, the Chapter surpassed the All-University, All-Mens, and All-Fraternity averages for the seventh consecutive semester. Our chapter is also extremely proud to say that we were able to raise nearly $400 for cancer research through various philanthropic events. Early in the fall semester, the Chapter initiated four quality men. We also had the privilege to initiate 11 men of principle into our fall pledge class. On November 4, we hosted the annual homecoming celebration in which alumni, parents and friends of the Chapter came together. We look forward to continue our success in the future through unwavering Beta spirit and brotherhood. – Jeffrey P. Holtz ’06, secretary. Advisors: 5 Members: 42 Academic: 3.19

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Mississippi (ΒΒ) At the beginning of the semester, Beta Beta held the bi-annual kickoff retreat led by Leadership Consultant Russell Katigan, Oklahoma State ’05, who helped Chapter officers set goals for the fall semester. As the newly re-chartered Chapter turns its focus to alumni relations, many alumni have returned to the house with encouraging words and compliments. A parent and alumni weekend held September 2930 welcomed a great turnout. Formal 38

The Beta Theta Pi

recruitment once again proved to be a rousing success for the Chapter, due largely to the efforts of the brothers and participating alumni, especially including Jim Weir ’79. The Chapter placed fourth among fraternities in academics, continuing to improve the overall chapter GPA. – Joshua L. Robinson ’08, secretary, 228861-9143, jlrobin1@olemiss.edu Advisors: 3 Members: 66 Academic: 2.84

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Missouri (ΖΦ)

Zeta Phi has continued its tradition of excellence by having an outstanding spring semester and carrying it over to the start of this fall. The Chapter once again finished atop all fraternities in grades last spring with a chapter GPA of 3.129, including 10 4.0s! The Chapter initiated all seven spring pledges. This fall, Zeta Phi held its annual philanthropy — a sevenon-seven water volleyball tournament. With the help of participating sororities and strong alumni support, the Chapter was able to raise an astounding $10,000 for MS Research at Barnes-Jewish Hospital! Also, Zeta Phi has continued its unprecedented intramural excellence as the Chapter is comfortably in first place after the finish of the fall season. Finally, the Chapter has a strong fall pledge class consisting of 33 well-rounded men. – Daniel S. Howard ’08, president, 573-874-9396, dsh6d9@mizzou. edu Advisors: 5 Members: 135 Academic: 3.11

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Missouri-Kansas City (ΕΛ)

Fall 2006 brought about many successes for our Chapter, which started off with signing a strong pledge class of 19. Throughout the semester, Epsilon Lambda has added many trophies to our collection for various events including the Delta Rho Pigskin Classic and the Alpha Delta Pi 8-Ball tournament. Both tournaments helped raise thousands of dollars for local charities. Epsilon Lambda looks to continue their dominance in grades on campus this semester after posting one of the best GPA’s in the Chapter’s history last spring. – William R. Hotchkiss ’10, secretary, 816-523-8275, wrhrkf@umkc.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 54 Academic: 3.21

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

MIT (ΒΥ)

This term is a hallmark of progress for Beta Upsilon. With eight outstanding new pledges, and a recommitment to the ritual and traditions of our institution, the house

seems full of new life, enthusiasm and general cheer. To kick off the year, the Chapter participated in an objectives and expectations retreat. There, we discussed our individual visions of the Fraternity and molded our thoughts together into attainable, communal goals. The retreat culminated with the decision to create a Chapter specific constitution. Additionally, the brothers have decided to pursue the Sisson award at the upcoming Convention. The last year in which our Chapter earned the Sisson was 1993. Benjamin Wasserman ’07 is the president of the Undergraduate Society for Biological Engineers; Jacob Muhleman ’08 is a member of the MIT varsity sailing team, helping propel the team to its rank of eighth in the nation; Lyel Resner ’07 is active with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program of the Massachusetts Bay and he is applying for the highly selective Fulbright scholarship. Using this spirit, we have devoted ourselves to rushing a spring pledge class of at least six members, effectively increasing the 2010 graduating class from eight to 14. – Victor S. Sinow ’08, president, 415-8461560, vsinow22@mit.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 33 Academic: 3.42

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Nebraska (ΑΤ)

The Chapter brought home its 13th Sisson award and sixth Knox award from Convention, and also solidified another promising year. The chapter ranked second out of 21 fraternities with a 3.416 average GPA. We had our first annual “Dad’s Day” on September 23 when the Chapter hosted a BBQ with our fathers prior to the Nebraska vs. Troy football game. Furthermore, through a partnership with Farmhouse, we organized the University’s inaugural “Queens of the Court” philanthropy, an event benefiting the Lincoln Fire Department. Congratulations to Barton Sattler ’06, Matt Breck ’06, Zach Martens ’06 and Russell Swan ’07 on their recent engagements. – Cuyler C. Gembol ’07, secretary, 308-870-2184, secretary@beta. unl.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 96 Academic: 3.42

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

North Carolina (Η) The Chapter has admitted 16 outstanding young men, one of the largest classes on campus. With a GPA surpassing the all-men’s average and the all-fraternity average, the Eta Chapter has certainly shown its commitment to scholastic excellence. Rob Sellers ’08, led the chapter in a joint effort with Kappa Delta to raise approximately $3,500 benefiting the


UNC Children’s Hospital. Kenny Thompson ’07 and Clay Griffin ’07 spoke to a group of Greek leaders about eliminating hazing from the campus culture. Additionally, the Chapter sponsored an anti-hazing speaker, Erle Morning, to speak to a group of more than 600 freshmen. – Clayton K. Griffin ’07, president, 704-472-1024, ckgriffi@email. unc.edu Advisors: 0 Members: 54 Academic: 3.15

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

North Dakota

(ΓΚ) The Chapter participated in many campus and community events and was able to accomplish many of the goals set at the beginning of the year. Andrew Jensen ’08 served as chief justice for IFC and Blake Johnson ’09 served as our Chapter’s representative for IFC. Zachary Smith ’08 taught a campus class introducing students to Greek Life. In addition to these activities, a group of our brothers helped prevent a possible tragedy at Sigma Phi Epsilon’s UND chapter. Michael Graalum ’08, Matthew Johnson ’08, Nate Kimber ’08 and Zachary Smith ’08 reacted quickly to a fire at Sig Ep’s chapter house, extinguishing the flames before any major damage could be done to the house. The Chapter is looking forward to setting new goals and continuing our strong brotherhood in 2007. – Steven R. Mauk ’08, secretary, 515-988-5591, smauk@aero.und.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 43 Academic: 2.99

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Northwestern

(Ρ) Fall quarter always flies in Evanston, but Rho has stayed busy and made the most of it. Our intramural football team played for the championship. We’ve kicked off our fundraising efforts for Dance Marathon with the lovely ladies of Gamma Phi Beta. Between our chapters, we’ll send 10 pairs of dancers. Following a successful Recruitment Through Scholarship campaign, and with a strong presence across campus in leadership positions, Rho is looking forward to welcoming a brand new pledge class in this winter’s rush. – Matthew T. Larson ’07, president, 847-332-6863, mlarson3@northwestern.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 43 Academic: 2.99

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Nova Southeastern (ΖΜ) With nearly 200 community service hours recorded to date,

Zeta Mu is reaching out to all parts of the community. Internally, the Chapter has already fulfilled its Risk Management and Alcohol awareness programs twice over! Additionally, the Chapter now has representative members on the IFC Executive Board, the SGA fraternal board and the advisory committee of Greek Affairs. Zeta Mu is holding to academic excellence as four brothers sustain a 4.0 with less than half the semester to go. Zeta Mu has shown itself to be an unstoppable force on campus as well as off and hopes to continue providing service and commitment. – Evan T. Fish ’09, secretary, 954-8053308, efish007@aol.com Advisors: 3 Members: 21 Academic: 2.85

Convention: Yes Finance: $295.76 RM: Unsatisfactory Ohio (ΒΚ) No report submitted. Advisors: 3 Convention: Yes Members: 64 Finance: $295.76 Academic: 2.55 RM: Unsatisfactory

Ohio State (Θ∆)

Theta Delta was recently returned to “good standing” during the 167th General Convention in Toronto, Canada. With the help of the new six-man advisory team, the Chapter has been making great strides towards the Sisson and Knox awards. We are in the middle of a successful fall rush with hopes of pledging a class of 30 men during the winter of 2007. We invite all Betas to visit The Ohio State University and stay in our beautiful chapter house, which was rebuilt in 1996. – Matthew S. Copeland ’05, president, 614-403-8887, copeland.77@osu.edu Advisors: 6 Members: 45 Academic: 3.08

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Oklahoma (ΓΦ)

The Chapter outpaced all fraternities on campus by placing first in grades for the spring 2006 semester. Our scholastic achievements were recognized during the annual scholarship dinner and we have added new computers to the Gamma Phi house study hall for all members to use. The Chapter pledged 54 of the most sought after gentlemen at the University of Oklahoma. The Chapter is excited about the future of this pledge class. Furthermore the men of Gamma Phi placed in several events during OU’s homecoming week competitions. Lastly, the men of Gamma Phi welcomed alumni and special guests to the annual alumni BBQ. – Koby C. Harrington ’09, secretary, 580-695-4181,

koby@ou.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 211 Academic: 3.12

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Oklahoma State

(ΓΛ) After becoming recipients of the Knox, Sisson, Virginia Tech, Whitman Choral Cup and the Wichita State Song Competition at Convention, we are in the midst of another great semester. We attained the highest GPA of any men’s fraternity on campus. We had another successful homecoming that featured The Great Divide and we raised $7,000 for the Battered Women’s Shelter of Stillwater. We hosted the second annual Beta Booyah haunted house for the Stillwater community. Summer recruitment brought in 40 of the best young men on campus and we look to bring in 15-20 more for the spring. In athletics, we brought home the All Sports intramural trophy again. Thank you to campus Greek Advisor Ival Gregory for attending The Institute this summer. Congratulations to Roger McMillian ’69 on becoming the new mayor of Stillwater. – Zack Colorio ’08, recruitment chairman, 405-826-7174, zack.colorio@okstate.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 143 Academic: 3.27

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Oregon (ΒΡ)

As we continue to develop our 19 man fall pledge class and educate them in Beta Theta Pi, we have strengthened them as a class and the newest part of the Chapter through pledging events including hikes, chapter dodgeball and our annual chapter football game. The Chapter also celebrated the Nov. 4 homecoming weekend with a pre-game tailgate party for members, alumni, pledges and families. At a reception later that evening, members’ parents presented Beta Rho’s own Jan Franklin with an award, cash gift and a five-day vacation to Mt. Hood in recognition of her exceptional dedication to the men of the Chapter. Jan was awarded Beta House Mother of the Year during the Convention this summer in Toronto. – Joel P. Arellano ’08, secretary, 541-343-2262, ja24586@yahoo.com Advisors: 7 Members: 61 Academic: 2.87

Convention: Yes Finance: $1,478.60 RM: Unsatisfactory

Penn State (ΑΨ)

With Dance Marathon just a few months away, John Irwin ’07 has been hard at work organizing canning trips and other fundraisers. We have many brothers on the Finance Committee for THON, including Jubin Winter 2007

39


Jacob ’09, Mathew Kolibas ’09, Christopher Coleman ’09, Elias Nasar ’09 and Stephen Heiner ’09. We held a date auction in the first week of December and all benefits will go toward a Breast Cancer Fund. Our intramural sports teams are looking very good and this semester is going very smooth. – Jubin A. Jacob ’09, 267-9706831, jaj245@psu.edu Advisors: 3 Members: 58 Academic: 3.16

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Pennsylvania (Φ) The last weekend of October, we held a homecoming alumni luncheon and hosted a haunted house for the West Philadelphia community. Also in October, the annual Men of Principle scholarship banquet recognized three outstanding Penn freshman. Individual members of the Chapter have assumed significant leadership positions. Robert Arnay ’07 is president of the Penn Model Congress, Healey Cypher ’07 is president of the Lantern Wharton Honor Society, Bren Darrow ’07 is the president of Penn Leads the Vote and William Breedlove ’07 is the president of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Student Organization. In athletics, Jayson Bowlsby ’09 represents the Chapter as a heavyweight division varsity wrestler. The newest class of Phi members holds an average GPA of 3.26 and overall, the Chapter’s current 3.33 GPA average is higher than Penn’s all-male average. – Bruce C. Hogan ’09, secretary, 602-3639862, brucech@wharton.upenn.edu Advisors: 2 Members: 56 Academic: 3.48

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Pepperdine (ΖΠ)

With an incredibly successful recruitment period and the addition of 14 new members, Zeta Pi has continued to establish itself as an effective and successful organization on the Pepperdine campus. The Chapter’s main focus this semester was on new member education, which effectively added to the cohesiveness of the brotherhood. The Chapter also focused on the upcoming spring semester and has worked hard to plan various brotherhood events, sorority mixers and a school-wide philanthropy, which will revolve around March Madness. – Peter A. Jarvis ’08, secretary, 310-383-7775, peter. jarvis@pepperdine.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 36 Academic: 2.91

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The Beta Theta Pi

Convention: Yes Finance: $1,136.43 RM: Unsatisfactory

Puget Sound (∆Ε)

Delta Epsilon is strong after a good fall semester. We initiated two new informal pledges and are looking forward to a large spring recruitment. We will be hosting our casino night in conjunction with a Mexican food buffet. Our philanthropy is gearing up for a number of Christmas charities and are also partnering with our Pi Phi neighbors to plan a joint AIDS benefit for the spring semester. – Mark A. Rosasco ’08, vice president, 303-249-0864, mrosasco@ups. edu Advisors: 5 Members: 41 Academic: 3.17

Convention: No Finance: $3,799.26 RM: Unsatisfactory

Purdue (ΒΜ)

A new serving area and chapter room in the basement were completed just in time for the undergraduates to move in and start classes. Fall recruitment was strong with 22 men accepting bids. Senator Richard G. Lugar, Denison ’54, shared a meal and a few words with the actives earlier this fall. Additionally, Beta is leading the all-fraternity intramural competition. J.J. Camp ’07 exemplified the Chapter’s strong campus involvement as he was named the 2006 Homecoming King. The annual ThetaBeta Grill-off was once again a success, raising more than $6,000 for CASA. These are just a few of the happenings that will provide a solid platform for another stellar year for Beta Mu! – Jeffery D. Wraley II ’08, secretary, 317-902-6583, jwraley@purdue. edu Advisors: 4 Members: 111 Academic: 2.69

Convention: Yes Finance: $650.79 RM: Unsatisfactory

Rhode Island

No report submitted. Advisors: 1 Convention: Yes Members: 54 Finance: $10,455.84 Academic: 2.64 RM: Unsatisfactory

Saint Louis (ΖΤ) Zeta Tau has made many steps toward improving our already growing chapter. This fall, Rush Chairman Chris Dandurand ’06 helped the Chapter to recruit 21 stellar pledges. Our recent success with rush will ensure that Zeta Tau will become one of the largest chapters at St. Louis University. Last spring, the Chapter won numerous awards at the Order of Omega banquet. Among others, Zeta Tau was recognized as Most Distinguished Chapter for the third year in a row. Our pledge program was recognized

for its excellence. Another notable accomplishment this fall was the inaugural Beta Fall Alumni Classic. With the help of alumni Richard Jente ’03 and Lucas Siron ’03, we organized an actives versus alumni softball game. Thanks to alumni support and cooperation, it was a big success. – Joseph E. Toomey ’08, secretary, 314580-3738, toomeyje@slu.edu Advisors: 7 Members: 74 Academic: 3.06

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

San Diego

The Colony has initiated the four members of its Delta pledge class on November 17. Also, over the past year, members of the Colony have spent over 470 hours in service to their local community. The San Diego Colony is particularly proud of Ryan McCormack ’07 for winning Greek Man of the Year at the University of San Diego. This marks the second consecutive year that a member of Beta Theta Pi has won the title of Greek Man of the Year at the USD. The Colony is also proud of its advisor, Fr. Owen Mullen, who took home the award for Advisor of the Year. The Colony also nominated th e recipient for Professor of The Year award. Special thanks to Nic Diloretta ’07 and Kyle Thompson ’08 for their dedication and efforts. – Brett S. Cameron ’06, bcameron@sandiego.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 49 Academic: 3.094

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

San Jose State (ΖΗ) After taking first in Greek Week, the Chapter traveled to Berkeley to participate in the Initiation Ritual with the Omega Chapter on Oct. 13. Following that, on Oct. 22, the Chapter hosted a Responsible Personal Conduct Seminar by Zander Sprague thanks to the efforts of Chapter Advisor Jason Andrews, Southern California ’93. Led by Christopher Lake ’08 and Philanthropy Chairman Andrew Egan ’09, the Chapter hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness Walk on Oct. 28, and weeks prior to the event raised $1,700 that was donated to the American Cancer Society. More than 60 parents, siblings and friends of Beta attended the Family Day which walked through a day in the life of a Beta. Chapter Advisor Bruce Douglas, Michigan ’65, hosted a financial seminar on Oct. 20, with the help of Brothers Macaulay and Gonzales. The Chapter wrapped up its fall semester with Beta Thanksgiving on Nov. 20, a formal pre-thanksgiving dinner in lieu of a regular chapter meeting, hosted by Chapter Advisors Bob Hansen, Idaho ’60 and Douglas. – Thomas M. Shess ’09, president, 619-347-3284, mshess@gmail. com


Advisors: 6 Members: 41 Academic: 2.66

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Sewanee (ΓΧ)

Minor renovations were made to the Chapter house as new Greek letters have been installed, the floors have been refurbished and the interior has been painted. Moreover, the Chapter initiated two pledges who embody the Beta spirit to its fullest. Brothers continue to hold prestigious leadership positions on campus. Matthew Pitner ’07 is the chairman of the Discipline Committee and five brothers are members of the Honor Council. Half the council is composed of our Chapter. In addition, five actives are newly-inducted members of the Order of Gownsmen, the University’s distinguished honorary society. – Todd M. Cheewing ’07, secretary, 931-598-2838, cheewtm0@sewanee.edu Advisors: 0 Members: 28 Academic: 3.06

Convention: No Finance: $1,278.30 RM: Unsatisfactory

South Dakota

(ΓΑ) We recently went through a reorganization process that left us with very few members. We knew it was going to be a rough road ahead but this fall we brought in 11 dedicated pledges. We held our homecoming and annual alumni dinner. The Chapter is keeping our academic goals set high. We are going to continue to help out in the community with a few planned upcoming events. Our intramural football team finished 4-0. Overall we are continuing, everyday, to rebuild the Chapter. – Dirk C. Waite ’09, secretary, 605-3806147, dwaite@usd.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 19 Academic: 3.20

Convention: Yes Finance: $660.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

South Florida

(ΖΒ) New Member Kyle Neal ’08 was elected into a chair position in the Student Government Senate and new member Chris Rivera ’10 was elected into the Student Government Senate. Tony Valcarcel ’07 was appointed Safe Team agency head. Joseph Monte ’07 raised close to $1,000 for the Voices For Children foundation in a singing competition called USF Idol. We have 20 new members, the second largest pledge class in the Greek Community at USF. – Joseph G. Monte II ’07, philanthropic chairman, 813-988-2508, bullstar07@yahoo.com Advisors: 3 Members: 56 Academic: 2.82

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Southern California (ΓΤ)

Beta is back at the University of Southern California! Gamma Tau has re-colonized with a strong founding father pledge class of 83 men from diverse backgrounds. November 29, 2006 marked their initiation day. Under the guidance of Josh Fairchild, Oklahoma State ’05 and Vince Mikolay, Bethany ’00, the Chapter has built a solid foundation for the future of the Chapter. We are ratifying our constitution, academic assistance plan and budget. It has been very gratifying to learn about the history of Beta. Football tailgates, weekend retreats, community philanthropies and sports days have been enjoyable as we continue to learn about one another. A strong brotherhood is emerging from this process and we are excited about recruiting more men of principle in the spring. – Garwin Chin ’08, secretary, garwinch@usc.edu Advisors: 8 Members: 70 Academic: 2.93

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Southern Illinois (ΖΟ)

The Phi pledge class consisted of six well-rounded new members. In September, Zeta Omicron partook in the Campus Leadership Safari. October was a busy month beginning with two Betas on Southern Illinois’ Homecoming Court: Miles Bardell ’07 and Gregory Beckman ’07. Later in the month, Zeta Omicron participated in two major philanthropy events, The Walk for Life and the 100th Anniversary Dinner of the Boys and Girls Club. For the Walk for Life, Zeta Omicron walked more than one hundred hours and raised around $500 for cancer research. The Boys and Girls Club of Carbondale had a dinner celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Boys and Girls Club of America and Zeta Omicron helped with all aspects of the celebration from set-up to clean-up. Southern Illinois’ Safe Halloween finished off the month with Zeta Omicron’s presence. November brought a much-needed break and provided ample planning for a successful spring. – David B. Kmetz ’07, secretary, 815-822-3839, dkmetz@siu.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 24 Academic: 3.05

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Stevens (Σ)

This past year the Chapter has been involved in numerous philanthropic events, including AdoptA-Highway clean-up, a charity drive for the Hoboken shelter and a clean-up of

Sandy Hook Beach. The brothers of the Sigma Chapter have had great campus involvement. Various brothers are involved with Orientation leaders, Peer Tutors, Order of Omega, Biz-Tech Club, Stevens Finance Group, Club Lacrosse and Club Rugby. We have been increasing the number of alumni events. These include an alumni football game and poker tournaments. Beta Ball is also planned for the middle of November. Progress has also been coming along well on The Slant, our alumni newsletter that is issued three times a year. – Lee D. Burwell ’08, secretary, 201-216-3469, lburwell@stevens.edu Advisors: 3 Members: 30 Academic: 3.01

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Tennessee (∆Κ)

In October, Delta Kappa moved into a new house, the largest on Tennessee’s fraternity row. We are excited about this great opportunity from our supportive alumni. Many thanks to all who contributed their time and efforts. The Chapter held a successful recruitment process and expects another great one in the spring. The Chapter expects to finish among the top of all fraternities on campus. – Russell B. Dunlap ’06, recruitment chairman, 865-5220070, rdunlap1@utk.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 15 Academic: 2.92

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Texas (ΒΟ)

The fall semester has been full of achievement, service and brotherhood. We added eight quality men to our roll. We continue to hold positions within IFC, the Judicial Board and the Silver Spurs (caretakers of Bevo). In a continual effort to excel academically, this semester marked the beginning of several chapter wide programs that promote group study sessions and professor/student relations. The Chapter occupied high positions in both the Greek Men and Greek Co-ed flag football divisions. In addition to participating in every major Greek event, our Chapter has been proud to host a parent’s weekend, a 1980-Present Alumni Reunion, weekly tailgates and several mixers with both Greek and non-Greek women’s organizations. However, we have focused much of our efforts toward the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas by organizing and implementing a holiday food drive that scaled the entire Greek community. None of our efforts would be possible without the continual support from TBSAF, Texas Dragons and our advising team. – Jess P. Randall ’08, secretary, 281773-1533, jessrandall@mail.texas.edu

Winter 2007

41


Advisors: 5 Members: 30 Academic: 2.81

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Texas A&M (ΕΗ)

Epsilon Eta ranked eighth out of 22 fraternities with a 2.855 GPA. At the 2006 General Convention, the Chapter was awarded another Sisson Award. The Chapter volunteered its time once again at the Brazos Valley’s annual Fallfest in Bryan, Texas where children from the surrounding area enjoy fun and games. Madison Marceau ’08 and Todd Ames Hunter Jr. ’08 represented Epsilon Eta at Texas A&M’s Fall Leadership Conference where they joined other student leaders. For the fall semester, Epsilon Eta took 19 pledges. The Chapter will be having a celebration for its 20th Anniversary on the weekend of April 7, 2007. Make sure to mark your calendars. – Todd A. Hunter ’08, president, 361-7749654, toddahunterjr@yahoo.com Advisors: 5 Members: 84 Academic: 2.86

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (ΖΡ)

We have two members on the IFC (President Alex Snowden ’07 and Financial Vice President Omar Munoz ’08), five Senators of the Student Government Association (Eric Rohne, Tim Gillespie, Seamus Nelson, Clint Johnson and Joshua Machicek) and the 7’2” center for the TAMU-CC basketball team, Jared Holt ’07. This leadership accounts for a third of our entire chapter! Our Chapter has become involved with the Junior League of Corpus Christi, an organization that assists local women and children through philanthropic events. We assisted with Bayfest, a large festival that raises money for non-profit organizations. We held the 3rd Annual Third Coast Classic Inshore/Offshore Fishing tournament to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Zeta Rho is hoping to become an elite chapter that will challenge the repeat winners of the Knox Award annually. – Josh L. Machicek ’06, president, 512-3955675, joshualaynemachicek@hotmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 24 Academic: 2.65

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Texas-Arlington

(∆Ρ) At convention, we received the Virginia Tech Award and our second consecutive Sisson Award. The Chapter earned a GPA higher than that of the allfraternity, all-men’s and all-undergraduate GPA, placing us first among fraternity 42

The Beta Theta Pi

GPAs. We began the semester with a strong recruitment effort, gaining 20 outstanding pledges and nearly doubling the Chapter. We held our second BetaNight-at-the-Movies philanthropy which raised approximately $1,000 to donate to the Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. We have finalized plans to move into a much larger and nicer house on Greek Row which we hope will aide in our growth. Additionally, we have focused on working to streamline and improve chapter operations, the results of which have been remarkable. With ever increasing levels of progress, ambition and initiative, Delta Rho is poised to expand and prosper more than ever. – Nicholas T. Chappell ’07, secretary, 713-301-6622, ntchapp@yahoo.com Advisors: 5 Members: 48 Academic: 2.74

Convention: Yes Finance: $4,399.62 RM: Unsatisfactory

Texas Tech (∆Μ)

The annual Beta 500 raised more than $10,000 in donations for the NMMS. The event was chaired by Taylor Perrine ’08. Many brothers are serving as senators for Student Government. Ten brothers are being inducted to Omicron Delta Kappa later in the fall. Ryan Hays ’08, Carson Runge ’07 and Brendon Roosken ’08 served as committee chairmen for Relay for Life and Ryan Todd ’07 was a co-chairman for the event. We took a 40 man fall pledge class and had six initiates last spring. – Thomas R. Todd ’07, president, 512-415-4841, rtoddbeta@hotmail.com Advisors: 4 Members: 121 Academic: 2.75

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Toronto (ΘΖ)

This summer, Theta Zeta and the city of Toronto hosted the 167th General Convention. Our Chapter received a 10th Sisson Award, our first since 2002. Since last spring, our Chapter has continued to pursue leadership opportunities with strong representatives at many events. This summer, our Chapter house underwent extensive renovations with the help of our alumni. On November 9, 2006 we celebrated the 100th anniversary of Beta Theta Pi in Canada. This year’s annual haunted house philanthropy was very successful, scaring more than 300 local children with help from the Delta Delta Delta sorority. This event also raised canned food for local Toronto homeless shelters. Under the leadership of rush chairman Nicholas D’Amico ’08, Theta Zeta continues to grow with a pledge class of 10 young men. – Dimitrios J. Mylonas ’07, secretary, 416807-5736, Dpgc_33@msn.com

Advisors: 5 Members: 24 Academic: 2.99

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Truman State (ΖΞ)

Zeta Xi continues to enjoy success in and out of the classroom. To kick off the fall semester, we initiated 13 new members in the Hall of the Chapters in Oxford, Ohio. After our second successful kickoff retreat, Zeta Xi is showing its increasing commitment to the community by leading a major holiday toy drive on campus. We are also very excited about a stellar start in intramurals in which the Chapter has taken first place in three of the first four events. – Grant D. Tower ’07, secretary, 816-679-1028, gdt630@truman. edu Advisors: 5 Members: 86 Academic: 3.45

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Utah (ΓΒ)

Gamma Beta brought in 20 fine new gentlemen following a very successful rush week in the fall of 2006. Mike Halverson ’08 and Alex James ’08, serve as Vice President and Operations Chairman of the IFC. We raised $2,000 for the Lindsay Morris Cancer Foundation. The week consisted of trick-or-treating with and painting the faces of local elementary students, as well as a Greek wide football tournament. The men of Gamma Beta stood out athletically by winning the intramural football championship, with two Beta teams competing against each other for the title. – David A. White ’09, public relations chairman, 801-580-0920, deoffspring@hotmail.com Advisors: 5 Members: 78 Academic: 2.68

Convention: Yes Finance: $5,241.15 RM: Excellent

Vanderbilt

No report submitted. Advisors: 2 Convention: No Members: 80 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 3.24 RM: Unsatisfactory

Villanova

No report submitted. Advisors: 3 Convention: Yes Members: 36 Finance: $2,760.20 Academic: 3.22 RM: Unsatisfactory


Virginia Tech (ΑΦ) This semester we hosted, along with Kappa Delta Sorority, our second annual “World’s Largest Pillow Fight” which raised more than $2,000 for the Coleman Collins Foundation and the Montgomery County United Way. We continue to participate in various intramural sports. Last semester we initiated 10 quality brothers and have 16 excellent new members to carry on the Beta spirit here at Virginia Tech. – William Hung ’07, secretary, 718-662-6178, whung@vt.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 61 Academic: 3.07

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Washington (ΒΩ)

The Beta Omega chapter has once again retained the highest GPA in the Greek system, placing more than 60 members on the Dean’s List. We finished second in the AXO “Median Madness” philanthropy event. Cartter Berg ’09 is running for an IFC position. In the athletic arena, the Beta chapter has continued to dominate not only the Greek system, but the whole University in intramural participation and championships such as soccer, coed-soccer, flagfootball and basketball. Our Chapter is strengthening alumni relations with events such as golf and basketball tournaments. – Russell E. Ettinger ’07, 206-526-7311, rett5@u.washington.edu Advisors: 6 Members: 98 Academic: 3.4

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Washington & Jefferson (Γ)

This semester has proven to be exciting for the Gamma Chapter. This marks our first full year in our brand new house. We are busy making it our own and continuing to get used to the new life here. We also saw a rise in the Chapter’s GPA from last semester and are happy to note that we are in accordance with the All-Men’s Average. We have successfully held two blood drives which have brought in roughly 100 units of blood for the Central Blood Bank of Washington. We were also very happy to host another great Homecoming Event for our alumni. We look forward to celebrating our 165th anniversary at W&J and the rest of a great year! – Keith A. Pisarcik ’07, president, 724-503-1070, pisarcikka@washjeff.edu Advisors: 7 Members: 30 Academic: 2.94

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Washington-St. Louis (ΑΙ)

This summer Alpha Iota claimed both the Sisson Award and the Virginia Tech Award. We rank second amongst all fraternities with a spring 2006 chapter GPA of 3.42, well above the All-Men’s Average. In continuing to develop parent relations, our third annual Parents’ Weekend was a great success with a silent auction raising more than $1,200 for our annual Thurtene Carnival. Alpha Iota members serve as chairman of the Student Union Budget Committee, President of the Class of 2009, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Research Fellows and Captains of the Varsity Men’s Rowing Team. Our capstone philanthropy effort remains the very successful annual 4-Square Tournament, with this year’s event fielding 15 teams and raising more than $6,000 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. – David J. Phillips ’08, secretary, 314-608-9404, djphilli@artsci.wustl.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 56 Academic: 3.41

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Washington State

(ΓΘ) Gamma Theta began the year with 12 new pledges who add fresh enthusiasm and commitment to the Chapter. They continue to meet their quota of attending Beta leadership opportunities by sending three men to the Institute for Men of Principle, three men to the General Convention and a full executive board contingent to the Northwest Keystone Regional Leadership Conference. They were awarded a Sisson at the Convention this summer. Jesse Geleynse ’07 serves as IFC Director of Scholarship and administration and Tim Freeburg ’07 is a member of the football team. They also have members involved in Pharmacy Club, Pre-Physical Therapy Club and a staff writer for The Daily Evergreen, WSU’s student newspaper. Gamma Theta received the award for having the highest percentage of members on the President’s Honor Roll. – Nicholas R. Antich ’04, 509-333-5052, nantich@wsu.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 47 Academic: 2.96

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Wesleyan (ΜΕ)

We have been involved with the re-building process of O’Rourke’s Diner, a historic landmark in Middletown and a nationally renowned diner. Our brothers are represented on the Wesleyan varsity athletic programs including football, diving and track and

field. We have recruited a large pledge class of 18 young men. Our lecture series has caught the interest of students and professors alike on campus, including such speakers as Ethan Bronner, deputy foreign editor of the New York Times. – A.J. Taucher ’08, secretary, 562-889-9514, ataucher@wesleyan.edu Advisors: 1 Members: 60 Academic: 3.1

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

West Chester (ΖΣ) We finished the spring semester by becoming Greek Week Champions and initiating eight new members, all with a GPA over 3.0. Since the start of the fall semester, we have participated in numerous philanthropy events. Our own event, “Jail time for Jared,” raised more than $750 for prostate cancer research. Jeff Dorunda ’08 was initiated into Phi Epsilon Kappa, the honor fraternity for kinesiology majors. Patrick McAndress ’07 is running for IFC president and was crowned as Delta Phi Epsilon’s “Deepher Dude.” We hosted an alumni football game and barbecue and currently we are planning a formal alumni holiday dinner. – Patrick I. McAndress ’07, president, 610-420-7256, pm578902@wcupa.edu Advisors: 0 Members: 42 Academic: 2.6

Convention: No Finance: $5,400.46 RM: Unsatisfactory

West Virginia (ΒΨ)

Beta Psi enjoyed a very successful rush last fall getting 17 young men, one of the three largest pledge classes on campus. The Chapter has undertaken many housing improvements and would like to thank Doctor Wade for his generous donation. It was good to meet many alumni that returned to Morgantown for homecoming weekend. The Chapter will host the second annual alumni golf tournament in the spring. We plan to send invitations for these events in the near future and if anyone has any questions please feel free to contact the Chapter. – Dustin D. Harrison ’07, secretary, 507-398-2435, dharri13@mix.wvu.edu Advisors: 0 Members: 53 Academic: 3.19

Convention: No Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Western Ontario

(∆Α) The Delta Alpha chapter is proud to welcome four new members into our numbers; all of whom will become great Betas. During the course of the semester, we have performed many philanthropic activities such as our Winter 2007

43


annual Haunted House with the sisters of Alpha Omicron Pi and the Boys and Girls Club of London. Further, our brothers have been involved in an AIDS benefit concert. Our hockey team is quite competitive this year in the Interfraternal Hockey League. After coming one game short of winning the league title last year, the Brothers of the Delta Alpha Chapter look to win the league for the second time in three years. – Nolan Zucchet ’07, secretary, 519-672-5877, nolan_king@hotmail.com Advisors: 3 Members: 31 Academic: 2.86

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Westminster (Α∆)

Alpha Delta successfully recruited 16 new members during rush last fall. Of the 16 members, 13 participate in collegiate sports. Betas assume major positions in Blue Blazers Investment Committee, Student Government Association, pre-law and pre-business fraternities. The men of Alpha Delta have participated in many philanthropy events. Family Weekend was a huge success, raising money for the new house through silent auctions and many generous donations. – Brandon A. Schafer ’09, secretary, 573-592-5722, schafeba@westminster-mo.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 36 Academic: 2.86

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

Whitman (ΓΖ)

Gamma Zeta experienced one of the most successful rushes in our history as we are the only Greek organization on campus to increase in number. Our intramural football team won the championship and our soccer team has done well. We are looking to retain the highest GPA of any Greek house this semester. Our alumni are working with us toward numerous house improvements. Many Betas play for the school lacrosse team, and their fall tournament was very successful, with Chris Juergens ’07 and David Ogle ’09 leading the team. Aaron Hazel ’07 is just beginning his senior season of basketball. – Martin K. Ishikawa ’04, 808-621-5345 Advisors: 4 Members: 58 Academic: 3.31

Convention: No Finance: $495.22 RM: Unsatisfactory

Wichita State (∆Γ)

The Chapter recruited 18 pledges last fall and is on track to initiate all of them. They hope to attain a 3.1 cumulative GPA, complete 500 hours of community service, initiate 80% of pledges and win back the All-Sports Trophy. The Chapter 44

The Beta Theta Pi

already won the soccer regular season and playoffs and placed second in football. Members are involved in SAC, SGA, College Republicans and Alpha Kappa Psi. Chapter President Brian Hund ’08 is also the Student Government Association Treasurer and was recently a finalist for Man of the Year. Hunter Mitchem ’07 was named Greek God during Greek Week festivities. The Chapter has been busy planning for the annual Founder’s Day that took place on November 4. T he Chapter has volunteered with numerous philanthropic organizations such as the Special Olympics, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and American Heart Association. – Brian A. Hund ’08, chorister, 316-640-4896, bahund@wichita.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 46 Academic: 2.87

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Willamette (ΓΣ)

Gamma Sigma significantly increased its GPA to a 3.263 last semester, higher than the All-Men’s Average and the All-Fraternity Average. The Chapter held an annual Penny Coat Philanthropy event, where we collect coats for the local Union Gospel Mission. Several members serve in campus leadership positions including student government and IFC. This semester the membership is proud to welcome an eight man pledge class, the largest number of fall pledges in the last four years. Under the direction of the recruitment officers, Gamma Sigma has organized and executed a semester of targeted recruitment events. – Joseph E. Gruber ’09, secretary, 209-969-3162, jgruber@willamette.edu Advisors: 6 Members: 49 Academic: 3.26

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Satisfactory

William & Mary

(ΖΥ) Beta keeps raising the bar for fraternities by maintaining the second highest GPA while remaining a social presence on campus. After a productive kickoff retreat, Zeta Upsilon has revamped and formed a new full advisory team. Fourteen promising pledges are on the road toward a fantastic initiation. Zeta Upsilon is gearing up for its philanthropic event, Frisbee Fling, an ultimate frisbee tournament that raises money and publicity for the College Charity Bowl, a spring sporting event that supports the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation. – William C. Jernigan ’08, recruitment and publicity chairman, 757221-4537, wcjern@wm.edu

Advisors: 5 Members: 49 Academic: 3.25

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Excellent

Wisconsin (ΑΠ) Eric Vita ’08 led a successful Homecoming campaign and finished in second place. Doug Johnson ’08 championed the flag football team to a fulfilling season. The house is now at maximum capacity for the first time since the early 90’s. Graham Piper ’09 has taken it upon himself to rebuild our Dragon’s Lair. Construction on a new website will make communication with alumni easier. Alpha Pi is truly a shining star in the city of Madison! – Jon A. Gaynor ’08, gaynor@wisc.edu Advisors: 4 Members: 44 Academic: 2.93

Convention: Yes Finance: $322.10 RM: Unsatisfactory

WisconsinOshkosh (ΖΖ)

With the semester about to start, a full renovation of the main floor of the Chapter house is complete, with costs nearing $3,000. The Housing corporation also matched funds with the Recruitment Through Scholarship grant to allow for a total of $1,000 to be awarded to recipients. Zeta Zeta teamed up with the ladies of Gamma Phi Beta taking first with a score of 101. Two Betas have been appointed to the Oshkosh Student Association as directors; Director of Academic Affairs Korie Mertens ’08 and Director of Greek Life Nathan Gribowski ’07. – Benjamin D. Thornsberry ’07, president, 651-269-8983, thornb82@uwosh.edu Advisors: 5 Members: 18 Academic: 2.07

Convention: Yes Finance: $0.00 RM: Unsatisfactory

Wittenberg (ΑΓ) No report submitted. Advisors: 2 Convention: Yes Members: 20 Finance: $0.00 Academic: 2.75 RM: Unsatisfactory

Yale (ΦΧ)

No Report Submitted Advisors: 1 Convention: Yes Members: 30 Finance: $5,935.04 Academic: 3.5 RM: Unsatisfactory


MEMBERSHIP by the numbers Rank

Chapter

1 2 3 4 5 6 T-7

Southern California** Miami (Fla.)** Oklahoma Auburn Oklahoma State Missouri Florida Georgia Michigan Alabama Central Florida Illinois Carnegie Mellon California-Santa Barbara Colgate Indiana

9 T-10

13 T-14

Number of fall pledges 83 63 56 43 40 38 29 29 28 27 27 27 26 25 25 25

Previous ranking*

1 2 4 T-9 3 T-13 T13 T-9 6 T-9

Rank

Chapter

T-17

Kansas Kansas State Nebraska Georgia Tech Idaho Washington Arizona Saint Louis Utah West Virginia

T-20

T-23

Number of fall pledges

Previous ranking*

24 24 24 22 22 22 21 21 21 21

T-21 T-16 T-16 T-19 24 T-7 T-21 T-25

* published in the winter 2006 issue; based on fall 2005 recruitment numbers ** Southern California and Miami were new expansion projects in the fall of 2006.

T-9

Winter 2007

45


Mystic [Mystic Shrine]

In Loving Memory

Amherst

Farnham, John H. Jr. ’46, Feb. 13, 2006. Beta father John, Syracuse (dec.) and son Ross, Ohio Wesleyan ’82. Phillips, Deane H. ’45, Jan. 17, 2006. He served in the Navy during WWII as a navigating officer and small boat officer in four major invasions. He received the Purple Heart and Letters of Commendation. He worked 10 years at Hartford Insurance followed by 20 years with the YMCA as business and program manager. The last years of his professional life he spent developing and administering employee assistance programs under the Wheeler Clinic. He also taught management and human development at several colleges and universities. Survived by daughter Wendy Blum and three grandchildren. Youmell, Dr. Robert F. (Bob) ’64, Dec. 25, 2005. He played football and hockey during college, then served in the Army for two years and did dental work in Vietnam at Long Binh. After returning, he opened a dental practice in West Springfield, Ohio. Survived by wife (of 37 years) Suzanne, six children and two grandchildren.

Arizona

Cayce, Forster S. ’63, Nov. 8. Result of a car accident. Beta father DuPuy, Westminster ’31 (dec.) King, Frederick R. ’65, Nov. 14

Beloit

Malone, Booth G. ’39, Jan. 27, 2006. Served in the Army Air Corps as a major during WWII. Survived by wife Corella, sons William and Booth Jr., and two grandsons. Beta grandfather Booth (dec.), father William (dec.) and nephew William Martin, Michigan ’31.

Bethany

Tilock, Dr. Fred H. ’54, Oct. 25. He served with the Navy for 20 years as a pathologist, followed by 10 years at Tri City Hospital. His service to Beta included being an alumni secretary, president of the alumni assoc., chapter counselor, assistant district chief and district chief. He spent two years as a commercial fisherman after retiring from medicine. Hobbies included boat building and repairing, and furniture building. Beta father Walter (dec.) Bethany 1918. On November 17, the San Diego colony posthumously initiated Fred onto its rolls. The brothers observed a moment of silence in gratitude for his lifelong commitment to the Fraternity and dedicated support of the Colony. It was fitting that the ritual boxes and equipment used in the initiation were made by Tilock. Brother Tilock has provided an estate gift to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation. Wilhelm, David A. ’83, Dec. 5. He was very active in all sports throughout high school and college. He was employed by the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies as a representative. Survived by sons Jarrett, Jordan and Chaz, and special friend Betty.

Brown

Mawney, Robert G. ’31, Jan.13, 2006. Survived by daughter Deborah Lawson, two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

California–Los Angeles

Lennox, James F. ’51, March 18. Overpeck, Warren F. (Bill) ’52, Oct. 6. He enlisted as an aviation cadet in the Army Air Corps and trained as a B-29 flight engineer. He was one of the original founders of the UCLA colony and later designed its new house. He also redesigned and enlarged the Delta Gamma house. He was the quarterback on the first Beta football team that won the interfraternity championship. He worked for A. Quincy Jones and was project manager of modern low cost family homes for the West Coat Eichler Corp. He then formed his own firm; one of his largest jobs was the Marina City Club at Marina Del Rey. In the 1950s, he was awarded first place by the National AIA board for design. Survived by daughter Destie, son Peter and two granddaughters. Beta brother Robert ’49.

Case Tech

Schreiber, Charles A. ’55, Oct. 9. He was an Air Force veteran. He worked for US Steel for more

46

The Beta Theta Pi

than 40 years as an environmental manager. He enjoyed flying and was an avid golfer. Survived by son Jeffrey, one grandchild and companion Bobbie Martha.

Cincinnati

Gregg, Ellis B. IV (Chip) ’87, Sept. 17. He was a senior researcher in F & HC Pilot Operations for Proctor & Gamble. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and the Cincinnati Bearcats. Survived by mother and siblings. Beta relatives: grandfather Ellis B. Jr. (dec.) father Richard (dec.) and uncles Clifford (dec.), Harrison (dec.) and Daniel (dec.) Heidt, Edward A. ’40, Jan. 24, 2006. He had a career with and became president of Penrod, Jurden and Clark, a major manufacturer specializing in the manufacturing and importation of mahogany and other exotic foreign lumber and veneers. He was involved in various civic and social entities, boards and committees. He was named “Norfolk’s biggest traveler” in 1960 and Pan America Airlines and United Airlines “first million milers.” Survived by wife Grace, daughter Susie, son Ed Jr. (Buzz), step-daughters and nine grandchildren. Shriner, James E. ’47, Oct. 6. He served in the Navy during WWII as a lieutenant in the Submarine Squadron. He worked in the restaurant business before joining Kresge Co. (K-Mart) as district store management. He then went into advertising, marketing and sales at Rayovac Corp. and Westclox and then Howard Monk Advertising Agency. He rose to vice president, director and shareholder. He purchased a partnership in the Janesville Group and was director and vice president of marketing. He held numerous community positions, was very active with the Boy Scouts and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Survived by daughters Mary Ann Lillie, Beth Thompson and Jennifer Hay, and three grandchildren.

Colorado

Carr, James V. (Jim) ’48, Dec. 13, 2005. He played football in college as the starting center. He served in the Navy during WWII on the V12 program. He had a few careers: an oil lease man, home builder, insurance company executive and systems analyst with the Federal Reserve Bank. He won awards for his woodcarvings and loved fly-fishing and watching sports. Survived by sons Dave and Val, and five grandchildren.

Colorado College Stacy, Ralph W. ’50, May 16

Columbia

Kurz, Hermann W. ’41, July 20. Survived by wife Mary, daughters Dorothy and Martha, son Peter and four grandchildren. Politi, Harry P. ’54, Oct. 31. He was a professional in the financial services industry, as general agent with Mass Mutual in New Jersey and vice president of investments with Merrill Lynch. He was a vice president with Morgan Stanley Dean Witter. He was one of the founders of the Columbia Alumni Club. Survived by wife Sally; daughters Elizabeth and Laura; sons Stephen, Paul and Charles, and three grandchildren.

Cornell

Rossiter, Lewis E. ’39, April 10. He served in the Army during and after WWII with the rank of lieutenant colonel. During his business career as a CPA he was a partner in F.W. FaFrentz and Company. Survived by daughter Susan, son Peter and four grandchildren.

Denison

Bovington, Dr. John R. (Jock) ’52, Nov. 22. He was commissioned as an officer in the Army. He had a family practice at Hawkins Lindstrom Clinic and spent four years at the University of Washington Medical School as a resident. He worked 14 years as a pathologist at Parma Community General Hospital. He enjoyed fly fishing, his dogs and the practice of medicine. Survived by wife Jean; daughters Jill and Kimberly, sons Sam, Tom and Jock, Beloit ’79; three stepchildren, and 19 grandchildren.

Greene, Thomas H. ’52, July 22. In an ATV accident. He served in the Marine Corps as an infantry officer in Korea, attaining the rank of captain. He entered on duty as a special agent in 1955, working in Los Angeles, Montana, Florida, Puerto Rico, Chicago and South Dakota. He was part of the first Bureau swat training session and retired after 26 years as the SSRA for the state of South Dakota. Then he went into a private investigation business working for several federal agencies. He developed the curriculum for a twoyear AAS certified, degree-granting program in law enforcement and was the program’s director. Survived by wife (of 48 years) Shirley, daughter Michele, sons Michael and Craig (both special agents) and seven grandchildren. Beta brother William ’59.

Denver

Bromberg, Harold L. (Holly) ’75, Aug. 23 Mills, Dr. David M. ’52, Sept. 18. He was a rheumatologist and loved by scores of patients suffering with arthritis and other rheumatic illnesses. He was also a professor in the Dept. of Medicine at both the University of Tennessee and at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, an associate professor at Texas Tech and had a private practice from 1984-98. Survived by wife Mary, daughter Molly, sons Jon and Dr. William, and seven grandchildren. Beta father David (dec.)

DePauw

McCallister, Rev. Raymond F. Jr. ’56, Sept. 6, 2005.

Duke

Mize, Jack P. ’45, Jan. 15, 2006.

Emory

Parker, Dr. Robert C. ’66, June 9. He joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and saw active duty in Vietnam and Desert Storm, he served as a general surgeon and retired as a captain. He then had a 20 year private medical practice in California. He served as the senior officer and was the only physician for the underserved villages of the Aleutian peninsula in Operation Arctic Care. Survived by wife Gail and daughter Christen.

Georgia Tech

Pierce, James E. ’37, Aug. 30. He was a steel sales and marketing executive for Jones and Laughlin and served on city and county land use planning boards. He helped launch the nonprofit agency Community Mobile Meals and was a dedicated volunteer for more than 30 years. Survived by wife Ruth, daughter Sara, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Hanover

Gill, John R. (Bob) ’43, July 25. He served in the Marine Corps and was a turret gunner receiving two Distinguished Flying Crosses and eight air metals. He and his brother Jim started Gill Brothers Heating, Plumbing and LP Gas Co. and then Gill Brothers Furniture Co. He also was part owner of J & J Supply Co. He was active in many civic affairs. Survived by wife (of 56 years) Betty, daughters Mary Ann, Tish and Jane; son Steve, and 13 grandchildren. Beta brother James ’41. Veal, Norvin S. ’29, Sept. 20. He was a civic leader and publisher of the Jacksonville Journal. He was publisher and general manager of several daily and weekly newspapers for more than 20 years. He also owned and operated Beaches Tax Service for 35 years before retiring. He was an avid golfer, bridge player and duck hunter. Survived by wife (of 62 years) Elouise; daughters Victoria and Eloise; sons Samuel, Thomas and John, Florida ’57; 11 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Idaho

Andrews, Robert M. ’41, May 11. He was a major in the Army Air Corp and served as a pilot from 1941-45. He pursued a career with Equitable Life Assurance and started his own insurance agency. Predeceased by four months was his wife Marjorie. Survived by children, four grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Beta brother Oral ’37 (dec.) Hutchins, J. Stuart (Stu) ’52, Nov. 17. Survived by


wife Nancy. Beta father John ’27 (dec.) Beta uncle Dan ’32 (dec.) Brother Hutchins made a generous provision in his estate plans to benefit the Beta Theta Foundation through an endowed scholarship.

Illinois

Broehl, Wayne G. Jr. ’47, June 28.

Iowa State

Lodwick, Seeley G. ’42, July 16. ( See Sidebar)

Johns Hopkins

Ferrari, David J. ’58, Aug. 29. He was chief executive officer of Argus Management Corp. Survived by wife Carp, son Ethan and two grandchildren. O’Connor, John S. ’54, Oct. 22. He spent 40 years as a dedicated teacher of English and history and a coach of football and wrestling. Survived by wife Glaiborne, sons Sean and Brian, and four grandchildren. Beta brother Ralph ’51. Rupard, Robert L. ’64, Feb. 14, 2006. Voegele, Dr. Albert H. ’36, Aug. 28

Kansas

Hanna, George D. III (Dave) ’85, July 10. He was a spokesman for U.S. Rep. Todd Tiahrt, 1994-2001 and then became a stock analyst for Morgan Stanley. In 2005, he joined Americans for Prosperity, a taxpayer activist group as communications director. He was an honored guest at President Bush’s inauguration in 2001. Survived by children Meg, Emily and Sam; his parents (Beta father George D. Jr. ’60); Beta brother William E. ’86, and Beta uncles Dr. Richard Glover, Colorado ’43, N. Lynn Weas ’64 and Dr. Charles Sills ’31. Beta grandfather George D., Kansas State (dec.)

Kansas State

Rogers, Steven W. ’53, Jan. 7, 2006. Survived by wife Nancy, daughter Susan Heenan, son David and five grandchildren.

Kettering

Leonforte, Michael E. (Peci) ’00, Sept. 5. He was a Warren County Deputy Sheriff on his fourth day of duty returning home when he was shot. He was a volunteer firefighter for the Norlina Fire Dept. in his newly adopted home of Warrenton, North Carolina. Survived by wife Cynthia Qiu, his mother and brothers.

Lehigh

Juer, Robert ’37, Oct. 10. He served in WWII in the Ordinance Dept. as a contracting officer and commanding officer. He worked for more than 43 years at Allied Chemical Corp. with the engineering, design and construction of many chemical plants, retiring as senior project manager. He was active in church and Boy Scouts. Survived by daughter Mary, two grandsons, three great-granddaughters, two step-daughters, four step-grandchildren and 10 step great-grandchildren. Beta brother Frederick ’39.

Lynchburg

Allen, Dr. Thomas C. ’94, Oct. 25. He served in the Army in Vietnam as a captain in Military Intelligence and received the Bronze Star for meritorious service. He was a professor at Lynchburg College, teaching more than 20 undergraduate and graduate courses, concentrating mainly on drama, literary criticism and 20th century British literature. He also taught creative writing and was a published poet, receiving a number of honors from the College. One of the most prestigious was the John M. Turner Distinguished Professorship in the Humanities, which he held 1999-2002. He was chair of the Dept. of English for more than 12 years. He led several groups of students overseas on study-abroad courses. He was chapter counselor and faculty advisor for Beta Theta Pi. Survived by mother and siblings.

Maine

Gray, Donald H. ’89, Nov. 29. He was employed by chemical laboratories in Massachusetts and Rhode Island before joining his father’s engineering and survey business. He worked for L.L. Bean during holiday seasons. He loved baseball and football, and collected cards, but his main interest was

golf. Survived by mother and Beta father Herbert ’54, sister Kimberly and Beta uncles Irving ’48 and Norman ’49. Donations can be made in his memory to Upon These Principles, Beta Theta Pi Foundation and Administrative Office. Treat, George C. ’41, Aug. 21

Miami

Minear, James R. ’35, July 11. He served in the Army during WWII and received the Purple Heart. Beta nephew Dr. James Roahen, Lawrence ’66 and uncle Daniel Attig, Iowa State (dec.) Normand, J. Robert ’43, April 26. Survived by wife Mary. Spitler, Guy D. Jr. ’54, Oct. 5. He was a commander in the Navy and continued serving in the Naval reserves for more than 20 years. In his business career he was director of financial aid at Miami University, established Guy Spitler Real Estate and was founder of the Ohio Association. of Student Financial Aid Administrators. He was active in his community and civic organizations. He will be remembered for his spirited rendition of “Santa Claus.” Survived by wife (of 49 years) Patricia, daughters Sheryl and Cynthia, and three grandchildren.

Michigan

Berry, Rev. Robert E. ’56, July 9. He received his masters in theology at Wartburg Theological Seminary. He was ordained in 1960 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, then St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and, in 1970, to St. James Lutheran Church. He later had a career with Detroit Health Dept. for 23 years. His favorite pastimes were sailing, reading and sports. Survived by wife (of 52 years) Judith, daughters Linda and Elizabeth, sons Douglas and Timothy, 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Temple, James R. ’51, July 8. He served in the Army. He practiced law in Michigan for 53 years. He served his family, clients and community with great commitment and integrity. Survived by wife Beverly, son Richard, stepchildren, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Michigan State

Gross, William C. Jr. ’69, July 6 Hill, Jack E. ’52, Sept. 2. He served in the Navy from 1953-56. He was the 152nd person to undergo a heart transplant at the University of Michigan, celebrating 15 years last fall, living life to the fullest. He and his wife were winter residents of Venice, Fla., and on the road all summer in their motor home. Explored Alaska three times, toured Glacier National Park and the Black Hills in South Dakota, herding cattle by horseback plus trips to England, Scotland and cruises. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Ellie, daughters Debra Anne and Patricia, and two grandchildren. O’Hara, Patrick T. ’53, Aug. 3. Chapter president, 1952-53. Survived by wife Jean, daughters Ellen and Ann, sons Timothy and Thomas, and seven grandchildren.

Minnesota

Books, Thomas W. ’04, Sept. 2. He served as cook and advisor for the Chapter for more than 25 years and was initiated in 2002. His contributions took many forms, keeping students well fed, planned and orchestrated countless events and was a source of guidance, inspiration, consolation and lots of laughter. He retired this past spring.

Missouri

Eblen, David M. ’86, Aug. 7. He was a former Boone County assistant prosecutor. Worked as a partner with Eng and Woods Law Firm. Survived by his parents (Beta father David S. ’65.) King, Richard A. ’66, Aug. 24. He served as captain in the Army. He had a legal career, was executive assistant to the governor, director of revenue for the state of Missouri. He founded a firm, King Hershey, and served as chairman and chief executive representing commercial developments throughout the state. He was nationally recognized in structuring public/private financial transactions. Very involved in his community. Survived by wife Deedee, two daughters, a son, step-children and seven grandchildren.

Seeley G. Lodwick Iowa State ’42

Lodwick was a Marine lieutenant, farmer, Republican state senator, bureaucrat and lobbyist. Helping Ronald Reagan, he was appointed to U.S. Dept. of Agriculture as under secretary for international affairs and commodity programs. He later advanced to the U.S. International Trade Commission. He was elected to the state senate in 1962 and again in 1966. In 1969, he was elected president pro tempore of the Iowa Senate, and from there went to the American Farm Bureau Federation, where he was director of governmental relations. Accepted an invitation from U.S. President Richard Nixon to work in the Department of Agriculture. He served on the Iowa State University Foundation Board of Governors and the Iowa Wesleyan College Board of Trustees and Iowa State University Extension. Lodwick will be remembered for his high-minded community service, as a leader of the farm community in Iowa politics, agricultural organizations, the state Senate and the USDA. He Served the Fraternity as a district chief (1980-81) and his chapter as a House Corporation board member (1993-2005.) Lodwick was president of the Tau Sigma Chapter, 1941-42. Survived by wife Helen (Pat), three daughters and four grandchildren. Beta nephew William Delzer, Vanderbilt ’98, father William G., Iowa Wesleyan (dec.) and relative Benjamin E. Seeley, Iowa (dec.)

MIT

Lacy, John W. ’42, Sept. 23. He was a WWII Navy veteran. He managed fighter plane repair and maintenance on the aircraft carrier Bunker Hill. He then worked for Dewey and Almy Chemical Co. and became founder and owner of Atlas Electronics in Needham for more than 30 years. Survived by daughter Ginger, sons David and Roger ’79, and five grandchildren. Beta brothers Thomas (dec.) and William (dec.)

North Carolina

Goforth, William J. ’50, July 1. He served in the Navy in the Armed Guard Division during WWII. He worked for the family business of Boyd and Goforth, general contractors for 30 years. He then worked as administrator for a small non-profit hospital for 10 years. He enjoyed jogging and tennis, and was a Tar Heel sports fan. Survived by wife (of 57 years) Margaret (Bootsie), daughters Mary Sue and Gail, and one grandson. Stockton, Robert G. Sr. ’44, May 24. He served in WWII as a pilot first lieutenant in the Army Air Force. He was a partner in the Kilpatrick Stockton law firm. He served on the board of directors of the American Red Cross, YMCA and United Way. Survived by daughter Preston and son Robert (Bobby). Beta father Norman (dec.)

Northwestern

Bickelhaupt, Robert E. (Bob) ’36, Oct. 27. He was a longtime Clinton businessman leaving a legacy of commercial development. He owned and operated Bickelhaupt Motor Company and after retirement, he co-founded and co-directed the 14-acre arboretum as a gift to the community. He won numerous awards including “Truck Dealer of the Year” by Time magazine, “Boss of the Year,” “Man of the Year” and many others. Survived by wife (of 68 years) Frances, daughters Frances Elizabeth and Linda, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Daily, Joseph W. ’36, Sept. 25.

Ohio

Bounds, John J. ’55, Jan. 6, 2006.

Ohio State

Fuller, Richard B. ’42, May 15 Haddox, Roy C. Jr. ’45, Sept. 25. During college he played football and tennis and was captain of the basketball team. He served in the Navy during

Winter 2007

47


Mystic WWII and served as an officer in charge of public works. He worked as a project engineer for Jeffrey Mfg. Co., and then joined his father in a real estate development and construction partnership, Roy C. Haddox & Co. He enjoyed travel, sailing, tennis and golf. Survived by daughter Marcia, sons Mark and Craig, grandchildren and step-grandchildren.

Ohio Wesleyan

Doan, Judge Rupert A. ’55, Sept. 7. He served three years as a captain in the Air Force. Was a partner in the firm of Hess, Cottrell and Doan. He became Hamilton County judge in 1966, serving on the Municipal Court and the Court of Common Pleas until 1980 when he was elected to the Court of Appeals, serving as the senior judge of the Ohio First District Court. He was the longest-sitting judge on a court of appeals in Ohio. He had been an avid organic gardener, operating a greenhouse where they grew roses. Survived by wife Sue, daughter Holly and two grandsons. Beta father Rupert G. (dec.) and Beta uncle John H. (dec.)

Oklahoma

Croom, John A. ’49, July 29. He served in WWII as combat medic and received the Medics Badge and Bronze Star. Worked for Gulf Oil Corp., Midwest Oil Corp. handling land and legal work, and established a law office with concerns of oil, gas law, real estate and probate law. Survived by daughters Christy, Connie and Cathie; son John A. Jr.; three grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Haynes, Richard D. (Dick) ’54, Aug. 1. Served in the Air Force from 1955-57. After several years of private practice in Oklahoma City, he became house counsel for Electro-Science Investors Inc. in Dallas, then joined the Ethan B. Stroud law firm. He founded Haynes and Boone, while teaching securities law at Southern Methodist University. The primary focus was corporate securities, which is one of the largest Texas-based law firms. He received the Justinian Award for public service. He became a marquee legal name during more than

Larry G. Bettesworth Washington State ’71

Bettesworth served as a chapter counselor for the Gamma Theta Chapter, 19972006. He was the chief of pharmacy at the Sacred Heart Medical Center at Washington State University where he developed and directed Sacred Heart’s Telepharmacy outreach program to help serve rural communities. He developed many other pharmacy programs and authored and co-authored a variety of publications. He coached soccer, baseball and basketball, and also served as a member of the board of directors for the Washington State Society of Hospital Pharmacists and Hospice of Spokane. Survived by wife Nancy, daughters Heather Emch and Shelly Prosser, sons Jacob and Dusty, sister Jan, three grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 40 years as a Dallas attorney. He stayed active in community affairs and active volunteer and enjoyed mentoring young people. Survived by wife (of 48 years) Norine, daughters Ellen and Caroline, and Beta brother John H. ’56. Kidd, Philip C. Jr. ’52, July 7. He was rush chairman and played football during college. Served in the Navy assigned to the USS Quincy. He made his career in banking where he joined his father at the First National Bank of Norman. He served as president and chairman of the Board. He was active in civic affairs. Had a love for flying (was a pilot for more than 50 years), the outdoors including hunting, fly fishing and ranching, and animals. Survived by wife Ann, daughters Margaret and Donna, son Philip and six grandchildren. King, Arthur E. Jr. ’39, Sept. 16. He served in the Navy during WWII as a meteorologist. He was part owner of the Eskridge Automotive Group. He taught Senior High Sunday school for more than 20 years, disciple classes for 13 years and was a lay chaplain. Survived by wife Patsy; daughters Franci,

48

The Beta Theta Pi

Genie, Kathleen and Patsy; six grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Levine, David Jay ’75, Sept. 8. He worked as a financial analyst for Vaughan Foods. He enjoyed coaching and watching his children play sports. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing hunting and golf. Survived by wife Sharon, daughter Anna and son Ben. Orr, Lt. Col. John K. ’34, Jan. 13, 2006.

Oklahoma State

Joullian, Edward C. III ’51, Sept. 25. He served as first lieutenant in the Army commanding officer of a Petroleum Products Laboratory. He was a prominent Oklahoma City business executive, chairman of the board of Mustang Fuel Corp., a natural gas gathering, processing and transmission company. He had a lifelong devotion to scouting, receiving numerous honors and awards. He was also inducted into the Oklahoma State University Hall of Fame, Henry Bennett Distinguished Service Award, Oklahoma State University of Engineering Architecture and Technology Hall of Fame, the Brotherhood Award, George Ward Memorial Award, the New Mexico Military Institute Alumni Hall of Fame, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, University of Oklahoma Dean’s award for Distinguished Community Service were bestowed upon him. Survived by wife Letitia, daughter Marion Story, son E. Carey IV and five grandchildren. Taton, Robert C. ’33, Oct. 6. While in college he held the state pole vault record. Served in the Army 1943-46 as a staff sergeant. He worked for his father in woodworking construction business. He was assistant superintendent of construction on four major building projects at Tinker A.F.B. and three major projects at the Naval Air Base. He and his brother Carl purchased Taton Brothers Planing Mill and later became sole owner. They remodeled more than 185 homes and 50 businesses. He was a member of the school of architecture and received his 75-year pin from the Beta Theta Pi Foundation on March 2005. Survived by nieces, nephews and caretaker, Marion Darwin.

Purdue

Hedberg, Lowell R. ’45, Jan. 15, 2006. Kulbieda, Steven M. ’91, July 29. He worked for the Joseph Storey Company. He loved sports (especially golf) and enjoyed Chicago life. Survived by wife Gina, parents and siblings. Donations can be made to Walter Payton Cancer Fund at www. payton34.org/donate or the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America at www.ccfa.org/donate. Sprong, James V. ’54, Sept. 5. He served as an Army lieutenant in Germany. He was a metallurgical engineer who joined the steel industry in the booming 1950s and provided leadership as the business adapted to mergers, overseas production and competition from other materials. He worked for J&L/LTV Steel for 47 years in Atlanta, Detroit and Cleveland. He chaired two trade groups: the Automotive Tack Force of the National Coil Coaters Assoc. and the Customs Partnership Committee. He held season tickets to Pittsburgh Steelers games for 48 years, no matter where he lived. He did volunteer work in his community. Survived by wife (of 51 years) Doris, daughter Sue Wetterlin, son Kenneth and two grandsons. Beta brother Robert C., Union (dec.)

Sewanee

Hedrick, John A. ’57, Aug. 3. He was a graduate of Admiral Farragut Academy and recipient of the Chafin Award for most proficient cadet office. Served in the Army in Germany. He was a distribution manager for Crown Publishers for 10 years and for Springer Verlag until 1986. Survived by wife (of 45 years) Arlene, daughters Susan and Caroline, son Clarke and seven grandchildren.

St. Lawrence

Dumville, Donald W. ’40, Oct. 18. He served in the Army 84th Infantry during WWII. He was an executive in the air conditioning department of Carrier Corp. Survived by wife (of 64 years) Anne, daughter Elizabeth, son Robert and two grandchildren. Elitharp, Richard M. (Dick) ’47, Sept. 15, 2005. He served in the Army during WWII and in the reserves and the National Guard for 21 years. He worked for General Electric in Iowa and Arizona where he helped run a Job Corps and was a bank manager. Active in volunteer work Red Cross, Boy Scouts

and church. Survived by daughters Joanne and Nancy, son Thomas, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Beta brothers Donald H. ’50 and Dr. Norman C. ’50. Ludwig, Vance S. ’53, Sept 18, 2005 Perham, Robert B. (a.k.a. Jeremy Slate) ’52, Nov. 26. He was the versatile actor who co-wrote and starred in the cult film Hell’s Angels and went on to appear on the daytime drama One Life to Live for eight seasons as Chuck Wilson. He gained fame in the early 1960s on the TV series The Aquanauts and a few years later appeared alongside Elvis Presley in Girls! Girls! Girls! He guest starred on nearly 100 TV shows. Including Gunsmoke, Mission: Impossible, Bewitched, Police Story and most recently in the sitcom, My Name is Earl.

Southern California

Broz, William F. ’71, Nov. 20. He was a historian, an entrepreneur, a civic activist and a world traveler. Survived by wife Mary, and step-children Elizabeth and Matthew. Beta nephew Warren Ogden, Duke ’99.

South Dakota

Egemo, Rodney C. ’58, July 30. He moved to Alaska in 1959 and worked construction and commercial fishing at Leader Creek Marina. Survived by wife (of 25 years) Ann, daughter Jo Ann, son Joe and a granddaughter. Beta brother Dwight A. ’61. Jackson, Marion L. ’50, Aug. 13 Myrabo, Lloyd K. ’50, Aug. 9. Beta relative John H. Sims ’33.

Southern Methodist

McKay, Paul M. Jr. ’58, Aug. 16. He served in the Air Force. He joined The Dallas Morning News as a retail-advertising artist, drawing sketches of young leaders, then worked for the Ed Bearden Art Studio, doing freelance jobs including as an illustrator for the Jack Ruby trial. For 17 years he was a freelance with Tuesday Morning Corp. for the advertising firm of Saunders Lubinski & White Inc. Started McKay/Travis Art Studio in commercial artwork, eventually his own Paul McKay Art Studio where he painted for the rest of his life. He loved painting oil or pastel portraits, especially of faces and hands, doing traits that portrayed personalities. He was a longtime Dallas artist who was passionate about his art and enjoying life, he loved to make people laugh. He did many bronze sculptures, some of which are in the Wall of Fame. Survived by wife Linda. Beta uncles Schuyler Marshall Jr., Kansas State 1919 and William Marshall, Kansas State ’23.

Texas

Bain, Roy M. ’40, Aug. 22. He served in WWII and the Korean Conflict, as an ACE pilot and retired at lt. colonel. Worked the oil production for Western Geophysical for many years. Survived by wife Felice, daughters Sally and Lynn, son Roy Jr., seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Cliffe, Jason R. ’91, Oct. 16. He obtained his J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law and was associate editor of the St. Mary’s Law Journal. He practiced with Davis, Cedillo & Mendoza, Inc. He was named in 2006 as one of the Best Lawyers in San Antonio by Scene in SA Magazine. Survived by sons Justin and Tyler.

Texas–Arlington

Avis, Paul E. ’92, Oct. 17. Result of a car accident. He participated on the golf, gymnastics and track teams and graduated with a bachelor of finance. He was a manager at Walgreens. Survived by daughter Kari. A scholarship fund has been set up at Wells Fargo Bank, 6964 Boulevard 26, North Richland Hills, TX 76180.

Toronto

Carthy, Justice J. Joseph ’55, Aug. 7. He practiced law at Weir and Foulds for 30 years. Was a co-author of the Ontario Annual Practice, appointed to the Ontario Court of Appeal in 1988 and was a Bencher with the Law Society of Upper Canada for 14 years. Survived by wife (of 46 years) Frances, daughters Linda and Susan, sons David and John, and eight grandchildren. Hill, Robert D. ’38, Nov. 22 Mason, Donald R. ’48, Sept. 30 McLachlin, James A. ’48, Oct. 20 Payne, Harvey T. ’57, Oct. 4


Shrine Tulane

Blanks, Edel F. Jr. ’54, Sept. 23. He served in the Army Transportation Corps. He had a 42-year association with the law firm of Shotwell, Brown and Sperry retiring as a senior partner attorney. He enjoyed fishing, golf and sports, especially Tulane football. He was a student of WWII history. Survived by wife Sophia, daughter Sophia Griffles, son Edel and three grandchildren. Dicks, Charles B. III (Chuck) ’54, Aug. 11. He was chapter president in 1951. Served as first lieutenant in the Army after the Korean War. He owned and operated C.B. Dicks Inc., an oil and gas brokerage firm. He did volunteer work, especially for Meals on Wheels. Survived by sons Charles B. IV and Robert, and two grandchildren. Beta relative John H. Schmidt, Alabama ’85. Dupuy, David D. ’38, April 8 Jackson, John E. Jr. ’50, Oct. 5. He was the chapter president from 1950-51 and served as a district chief from 1966-69. He served in the Marine Corps retiring with the rank of colonel, remaining in the reserves until 1987. He taught at special military schools. He served as chief legal counsel for the Louisiana Racing Commission from 1956-93 and was one of the United States’ leading equine lawyers. In addition to his work with the racing commission, he had a private civil practice for 47 years at the firm of Jackson & Allen, where he practiced in the area of successions and probate law. Survived by wife Rosalie, daughters Molly and Margo, son John E. III, eight grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

Utah

Ure, Dr. Henry M. ’40, Aug. 10. Beta brother James (dec.) and nephew Lee Nicholson (dec.)

Vanderbilt

Haynes, James B. ’40, Dec. 2. He was a lifelong farmer, serving as president of the Rutherford County Farm Bureau for many years and director of the Tennessee Livestock Producers. Survived by sons Dr. J. Brevard and Sam, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Virginia

Lee, Dr. J. Moultrie, Feb. 28, 2006. Beta brother Lawrence Jr. ’38 (dec.)

Virginia Tech

Reed, R. Brian ’93, Sept. 4. He worked much of his career in the professional consulting field. After graduation, he started work with Anderson Consulting but later joined Nextlinx Corporation in 1999. By 2001, he had formed his own consulting company, RBR Technology Solutions. He had a passion for people, especially his family. He married Virginia Tech alumna, Erin Wood, in Charlottesville, Virginia, on September 11, 1999. Throughout his inspirational battle with a rare form of cancer, his optimism stayed strong, which kept his family grounded. He is survived by his wife, Erin and their children, Carter and Anna; his parents; his brother, sister-in-law and their children; his grandmothers, and countless devoted friends. To learn more, please visit www.brianreedfoundation. org.

Washington

Ernster, Dr. Michael F. ’77, May 22 Shannon. William L. (Bill) ’36, Sept. 26. He was a civil engineer, businessman and leader in the geotechnical engineering profession. During WWII, he worked on projects to enhance national security including designing military runways and gun emplacements. In 1954, he formed Shannon and Wilson Inc., a Seattle engineering firm, working on projects all over the world. He was very active in his community. Survived by wife (of 68 years) Ellen; sons Bill, Al and Dave; 10 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Washington & Jefferson

Brown, Edwin P. ’50, Sept. 6. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard and the Korean War conflict. He worked in the advertising business in Pittsburgh for many years. Survived by wife Alice, daughter Laura, sons Edwin and Thomas, and two grandsons. Condit, Russell L. Jr. ’46, Dec. 12. He served in the Army Air Force as a pilot and commissioned officer. He lived most of his life in Cincinnati, Ohio,

before retiring to Hilton Head Island. He worked for 37 years with Procter & Gamble as the director of advertising media. Survived by wife Marjory; daughters Susan, Barbara, Sarah and Constance; 10 grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter. Hawkins, Dr. James G. Sr. ’46, Sept. 15. He was president of his chapter. He served in the Army in the Air Transport Command during WWII. He was a pediatrician, practicing in North Hills for 44 years. He enjoyed golf, tennis, swimming, traveling and loved to read. Survived by wife (of 52 years) Janet, daughter Susan, sons Dr. James G. Jr. and John, and five grandchildren. Beta brother George, Bethany ’48. Woodward, Guy Jr. ’40, July 2. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as captain and assistant inspector general. He was employed with Pan American World Airways. Survived by niece and three grand-nephews.

certified property manager and real estate appraiser in St. Petersburg area. Beta brothers Robert C., Washington ’54 and John R. (dec.), and cousin William K. Jr., Missouri (dec.) Moore, James E. III ’61, July 16. He was a prosecuting attorney beginning his practice in Sikeston. He opened his own law office in 1965 and a second office in Cape Girardeau in 1990. He served as an officer for the Young Democrats Organization at the county and state level. Served four years as assistant prosecuting attorney in Scott County then was elected to Scott County for two terms. Survived by wife (of 45 years) Karen, daughter Verona, sons James and John, and three grandchildren.

Whitman

Shields The Hon., George T. ’50, Oct. 10. (See below.)

Washington-St. Louis

Herlage, Robert Owen ’52, July 17. He was a lawyer known nationally for his expertise in real estate law. He was president of the St. Louis Bar Association, the Missouri Bar Association and president of the American Bar Foundation at the time of his death. Was a loyal supporter of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Survived by wife (of 45 years) Anne and daughter Mary. Beta brother Richard A. ’48. Kingsley, Thomas C. ’51, Aug. 13. He was an Army Air Force veteran and Navy Reserve officer. He worked for Caterpillar Inc. for 40 years in the product support department including assignments in U.S., Canada and Japan. Volunteered in many community organizations and had a lifelong interest in flying. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Nancy, daughter Susan, son Thomas H. and four grandchildren. Beta brother M. Weir ’60 and relative John M. ’57.

Washington State

George T. Shields Whitman ’50

Shields was admitted to the Washington State Bar in 1953 and served in the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 1954-56. He then began a private practice in Spokane and was elected to the Washington State Superior Court in 1970. He was a member of the Bar Assn. and numerous civic organizations. He served on the Advisory Council of Beta Theta Pi, was district chief from 1961-63, president of the 127th General Convention in 1966 and was elected to the Board of Trustees as a vice president in 1967, serving a three-year term. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Jean, daughter Lora, sons George and Andrew, and four grandchildren.

Bettesworth, Larry G. ’71, Aug. 13 (See p.48.)

West Virginia

Coen, Carl L. ’48, Nov. 18. He served in the Army during WWII and the Korean War conflict. He worked for Bayer Chemicals. Survived by wife (of 57 years) Nancy, daughters Marti, Nancy and Laura, six grandchildren, two step-grandsons and two great-grandchildren. Scott, Carl D. ’46, July 12. He was an Army veteran of WWII. He worked as sales manager for Chittum Buick, owned and operated Dean Scott Esso and worked for the West Virginia Department of Highways as safety director. The West Central Soccer Association named its new fields “The Dean Scott Soccer Complex” for all his help with the youth of the area. Survived by daughters Martha Duling, Elizabeth Emerson and Rebecca Corrigan, and seven grandchildren. Ritchie, William S. Jr. ’50, July 8. He served as state highway commissioner, and designed and constructed more than 300 miles of interstate highways and more than 600 miles of state and local service road and bridges. The William S. Ritchie Jr. Bridge was built linking Ravenswood with Meigs County. He joined Hobet Mining in 1977 and became senior vice president of operations for Ashland Coal. Served three terms as Ravenswood’s mayor. Beta brother Ray R. ’55.

Western Reserve

Smith, Dr. James W. Jr. ’48, Aug. 15. He served in the Navy. He was a long time supporter of Beta and the Cleveland Beta Alumni Assn. He became a prominent surgeon with a string of publications to his credit. He was sent by the State Dept. to India to research leprosy and gained recognition for his work in hand reconstruction. He was a clinical professor of surgery at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Was medical and chief executive of the Center of Specialty Care, which he founded in the late 1970s, a free-standing ambulatory surgery center. He had a collection of arcade games from the late 19th century to the mid 20th century. Survived by wife Nancy; daughters Lucinda, Judith and Constance; sons James III and Peter, and 11 grandchildren.

Westminster

Lasley, C. Henry ’47, July 16, 2005. He served in WWII and Korean War in the Navy. He worked as a

Wichita State

DeHaven, Dean E. Jr. ’72, Nov. 19. He worked in hospital administration at both St. Francis and St. Joseph’s Hospitals. He was residing in Branson West, Mo. at the time of his death. Survived by wife Sue, daughters Tammy and Shelly, Beta son Michael ’96 and nine grandchildren.

Willamette

McGowan, William P. (Bill) ’86, Oct. 3. While attending a cross country practice, he suffered a fatal heart attack while enjoying one of his favorite activities: coaching the cross country team at St. Bonaventura High School. He was a construction surety agent with M.B. McGowan and Assoc. He managed the firm’s Ventura office and worked throughout Southern California and the Central Coast. He wrote a regular column on political economy that appeared in the Ventura County Reporter and the Canyon News. Survived by wife Cynthia, daughter Erin and son Liam. Beta father Matthew B. Jr., Oregon State ’53. Walker, John E. ’49, May 9

Wisconsin

Forrest, Lt. Col. Kenyon L. ’54, Sept. 22. He had a 20-year career with the Army as a Dust-off Medivac helicopter pilot and administrator, including one tour in Korea, two tours in Vietnam, two tours in Germany and numerous stateside bases. After retiring he took up training as a pharmacist at H.E.B., helping the community for seventeen years. Forrest enjoyed hunting, fishing, and specializing in wildlife cuisine. Survived by wife (of 51 years) Joan, daughters Stephanie Barbatelli and Deborah Threadgill, son James and six grandchildren.

Wittenberg

Schildt, Dr. Paul J. ’34, July 20. He served in the Army Medical Corps during WWII. He established his medical practice from 1946-82 as a urologist. He was active with the American Urological Assn. He was an associate professor at Case Western Reserve Medical School and medical director at Lakewood and Fairview Park Hospitals. Survived by daughter Sue Knepper, son James, three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. – Compiled by Phyllis Bowie

Winter 2007

49


[The Last Word]

FROM THE

ARCHIVES

Can you guess the location, year and significance of this photo?

Summer 2006 ISSUE

Send your answers to:

The image at left appeared in the fall 1981 issue of The Beta Theta Pi. The photo — taken at the conclusion of a 47-day bicycle trip across the United States — ended with a celebratory greeting from “fans” and media. Thomas W. Dickey, Amherst ’27, made the trip at age 71 and became the first blind man to cycle across the United States.

5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056 or steve.brylski@betathetapi.org

Congratulations to Henry Anthony, Amherst ’56, for correctly responding to this contest! 50

The Beta Theta Pi

The Beta Theta Pi

Brothers responding with the correct answer will be entered into a drawing to win a personalized brick in the Beta Walkway in Oxford.


A Lasting Moment I had never intended to join a fraternity but, as a courtesy to a close friend, I accepted a dinner invitation from the Beta Theta Pi chapter at Minnesota. The men seemed upstanding and soon my mind was changed when the Chapter began to sing. The mutual bonding and obvious camaraderie amongst the members was unique and inspiring. Two nights later, Peter F. Greiner, Minnesota ’51, issued a bid that I gratefully accepted. I have been a Beta for 57 years and it has been a wonderful experience; an experience that I want future generations to enjoy. I believe that, without adequate funding, the Men of Principle initiative would not be viable. You can’t ask your brother to give unless you do so yourself, so I made a significant contribution given my financial situation. I continue to contribute and am happy to do so. I feel as though my contribution, plus the others that totaled more than $20 million, will afford the same experiences that we have all been privileged to, well into the future. — Bertram G. Leach, Minnesota ’52, retired from the military after more than 20 years of service and completed a second career in the financial services industry. He is a staunch supporter of the Men of Principle initiative and resides in Edina, Minnesota.


Start down the pathway

of generosity by leading others.

Beta Theta Pi FOUNDATION IT’S LEADERSHIP SEASON AGAIN…

HELP SPONSOR AN UNDERGRADUATE TODAY! With a record number of undergraduates planning on participating in The Beta Wilderness Challenge and The Institute for Men of Principle, the need for individual alumni to step forward and make a young Beta’s experience possible is significant. Won’t you help build a bridge and create a lifelong Beta memory for some eager young undergraduate? You may be just the one that puts him on the right path… one that benefits our Fraternity and world community for years to come. Indeed, we’ve made it simple… Multi-month installments are welcome, and you can even make your gift on-line at www.betathetapi.org/gift. Likewise, you can call or email Foundation Associate Director Martin Cobb at 800-800-BETA or martin.cobb@betathetapi.org. He’s eager to help you develop the future of our Great and Good Fraternity.

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


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