The Beta Theta Pi Magazine - Winter 2013

The

Beta Theta Pi A

G

A

Z

I

N

W in te r 2013

M

(page 15)

A mother to All

Meet Mom Lonker of Kansas State (page 28)

Convention Recap

173rd General Convention (page 31)

Campus Life

100% of Chapters Reporting (page 37)

E

Editor’s Message

A House or a Home?

During one of my first traveling experiences as a Beta staff member in the late ’90s, I found myself visiting the men of our Beta Phi Chapter at Colorado School of Mines in Golden. It’s been a great Beta chapter for decades, and the impact of their house mom and alumni has been tremendous.

While I was touring the chapter house, I took note of a framed quote that hung above the fireplace mantle: “Not a house, but a home. Not a college experience, but an enduring brotherhood that lasts a lifetime.”

In particular, I was captivated (and still am) by their use of the word “home”, especially since we almost always use the word “house” when referring to our chapter facilities.

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

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

Editor L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 Managing Editor Mike Roupas, Iowa ’10 Associate Director of Communication Kyle Grand, Wabash ’11 Contributors Brian Breitholtz, Phyllis Bowie, Anne Emmerth Creative Director Sarah Shepherd Graphic Designer Jenna Noah

The differences between the two are very, very distinct...

Director of Digital Media Robert Umstadter, San Jose State ’05

A house is defined by Webster’s as “a place in which people live,” while German author and poet Christian Morganstern suggests, “Home is not where you live, but where they understand you.”

Photography Justin Mayfield, Tim Irons, Chris Cone, Jimmy Balough, Cincinnati ’11, This House is Home

Isn’t that really the essence of Beta Theta Pi? Learning to understand ourselves – and others? As Beta’s ritual and the scripture suggests, “Get wisdom, and with all thy getting, get understanding.”

Given the profound impact of living together as a part of the fraternity experience, we have chosen with this issue to explore whether Beta chapter houses are still relevant and, in particular, are they meeting the current needs of our organization. Namely, are they just tired and worn-out boarding houses offering meals and a place to blow off steam on the weekends, or are they epicenters of brotherhood that provide a warm, rich, enduring experience that teaches young men how to live together as a family, take on leadership roles and have a whole lot of spirited fun while learning life’s boundaries and the responsibilities that come with gaining personal independence?

Essentially, are Beta houses true homes to the men they are intended to nurture and develop?

Whether a chapter owns a free-standing facility, has a floor or unit in a residence hall or quadrangle, or is young and simply renting a small house or apartment and dreaming about the day when a Beta house will become reality, we have found there are four principles our fraternity must pursue vigilantly to ensure the Beta experience is rewarding and complementary to the objectives of our young men, their parents, our alumni and the institutional environments in which we exist. In rank order...

1.

2.

3.

4.

Is the facility safe?

Does the facility foster academic excellence?

Does the facility inspire and develop the chapter’s brotherhood?

Is the facility competitive with other student housing options?

With more than 80 percent of Betas benefitting from some type of formal living arrangement while in school, it is incumbent that, as a part of the Men of Principle initiative, we keep investing time, talent and treasure in the cherished homes that foster an understanding of life, one another, and a “brotherhood that lasts a lifetime.”

Yours in ___kai___,

L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 Editor and Director of Communication

2

The Beta Theta Pi

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

The Beta Theta Pi, (USPS 052-000) official magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, is owned by the Fraternity, edited and published under the direction and control of its Board of Trustees, published Winter, Spring and Summer for $30 onetime pre-paid subscription. Standard non-profit class postage paid at Oxford, Ohio, and additional points of entry. Canada Post International Publications Mail (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 0397474. Copyright Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, 2012. Produced in the USA.

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

Mail Date December 15 March 15 June 15

Send address changes to: Foundation and Administrative Office Brennan Hall 5134 Bonham Road PO Box 6277 Oxford, Ohio 45056 800.800.BETA or beta@betathetapi.org

WHO GETS THE MAGAZINE? The Fraternity’s leadership works hard to maximize resource effectiveness, and upon initiation each Beta is guaranteed a lifetime subscription to The Beta Theta Pi. That commitment remains, although some are no longer interested in receiving the hard-copy magazine.

So, who gets the Fraternity’s magazine?

Anyone who requests it, as well as all active Beta volunteers, donors to the Beta Foundation, undergraduates and parents. Make your preference official at 800.800.BETA or beta@betathetapi.org.

Contents

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine | Vol. 140 | No. 1

15 The Beta House Is it Still Relevant?

31 Convention Recap 173rd General Convention Highlights

37

departments 12

Campus Life And Chapter Reporting

4 Beta Inbox winter 2013

“You Said It!”

15

6 News and Notes Fraternity Updates

8 Opening of the Door

Mission

Seven Re/Colonizations

To develop men of principle for a principled life.

10 Marching Along

Vision

Alumni Accomplishments

Every member will live Beta Theta Pi’s values.

12 Alumni News

Core Values

ifelong Fraternal L Brotherhood

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

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

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

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

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

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

in the spotlight

28

14

30 From the Archives Seth R. Brooks’ Inter Fratres 48 Mystic Shrine In Loving Memory

Parents “We Are Proud Beta Parents.”

28 House Director “A Mother to All”

51 A Lasting Moment “Good friend, I am building this bridge for him . . .”

www.betathetapi.org

3

Beta inbox

“

”

You Said It!

“[The summer] issue of The Beta Theta Pi magazine is probably the best assessment of our fraternity that I have seen in my nearly 50 years as a Beta.”— Jimmy Lawrence, Florida ’66

“Looking forward to my first advisors meeting of Beta Theta Pi MIT! So excited to expand my volunteer experience with Beta!” — Maribeth

“Thankful to receive a nice note from an undergraduate brother from John Carroll University who I sponsored to attend Beta Theta Pi’s John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle. ___kai___ is worth every penny I give to my fraternity.”

— Jacob Tidwell, East Carolina ’04

Johnson-Flakes, Friend of Beta

“Happy Founders’ Day Beta Theta Pi! “Reading through the Beta Theta Pi Facebook Even though I am a Sigma Kappa, page puts context and a clear business case Beta Theta Pi changed my life around why I continue to serve this fraternity!” as well! Lots of love from a former sweetheart of the Zeta – Justin Foster, West Chester ’11 Omicron Chapter at Southern Illinois University!”

— Brooke James, Sigma Kappa

“I just registered my life insurance provided by my company to Beta! I hope it doesn’t get used too soon! :)”

“Thank you guys for coming to our [Missouri house] dedication. It means a lot that this isn’t strictly a chapter event, but a fraternity-wide celebration.” — Alex Bohnert, Missouri ’15

— Ryan Marek, Minnesota ’12

Voice Your Thoughts: beta@betathetapi.org

4

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Share on Facebook: facebook.com/betathetapi

Connect on LinkedIn: betathetapi.org/linkedin

Engage on Twitter: twitter.com/betathetapi

Beta inbox

#Overheard on Twitter

By The Numbers

@bradelliott23: For my 2000th tweet, shout-out to @BetaThetaPi. I got my bid exactly two years ago today. #MomentsThatChangedMyLife @Just_Liv_in: Proactive people are driven by values - carefully thought about, selected, and internalized values. @BetaThetaPi #BetaValues #BetaPride @jessicajobe20: I met a 76 year old man today at work wearing Beta Theta Pi letters and he told me how influential it was in his life. @qdphin205 that’ll be you! @Baylor_Blair: Grateful to have received a bid to become a Founding Father into the new Baylor @BetaThetaPi chapter! #ManofPrinciple @bobsheiskawy: Just struck with the urge to sing @BetaThetaPi songs. @spencersignu: Love getting #Wooden emails from @BetaThetaPi #blessed

@PGore: So excited to finally be inducted into Beta Theta Pi with 70 other excellent guys! @ArkansasPhiMu: Congratulations to @BetaThetaPi at the University of Arkansas on their first Induction Ceremony! #foundingfathers @CRTurner19: This is going to be a great weekend.. Parents cocktail, Installation, and Semi Formal! #letsgo #BetaThetaPi @PBellytoledo: Beta sky while running this AM. #delicateshades @BetaThetaPi

@Rizzo_443: I officially get 15% off Brooks Brothers, thanks to @BetaThetaPi!!!

@DEPaluch: #BOOM, done updating all 163 of our alumni! That only took a month to get all the missing info. @BetaThetaPi @SLUBeta #ProudToBeABeta #240

@mattryan1270: @BetaThetaPi and proud to be a part of it! Roll #1270...#legacyofgreatness

@rdnewton: Proud of my fraternity for doing what it says it will do, every time.

Thank you! @BetaThetaPi #proud

Whoops!

We discovered some mistakes in the summer 2012 issue of the Beta magazine. We apologize for the errors and thank our readers who brought them to our attention: Gamma Xi: No, our chapter at the University of Florida didn’t relocate five hours south to Miami, as was listed in “Chapter Reports.” The nearly 140 Gamma Xi brothers are still located at 13 Fraternity Row in Gainesville, Fla. Gamma Alpha: Likewise, our chapter at South Dakota is not making an hour commute each day from Sioux Falls. The chapter house is still located right on campus in Vermillion.

www.betathetapi.org

5

News and Notes

2013

happy

leadership opportunities

anniversary Is your chapter celebrating a milestone anniversary this year?

Contact your chapter’s alumni and undergraduate leadership to see if a celebration is in the works. Log in to my.betathetapi.org to look up current officer contact information.

Chapter Years Founding Centre 165 05/27/1848 Colorado Mines 105 09/17/1908 Denison 145 12/23/1868 East Carolina 30 01/22/1983 Eastern Washington 20 10/30/1993 Emory 65 11/23/1948 Furman 15 04/04/1998 Hanover 160 05/19/1853 Kansas 140 01/08/1873 MIT 100 09/27/1913 Nebraska 125 09/13/1888 Northwestern 140 07/03/1873 Oklahoma State 90 01/06/1923 Penn State 125 10/04/1888 Saint Louis 10 03/01/2003 South Carolina 155 01/31/1858 Utah 100 10/25/1913 Westminster 145 03/05/1868 Wisconsin 140 06/06/1873

Anniversaries & Major Events Does your chapter have any upcoming events planned?

Share your event details with us at beta@betathetapi.org!

Miller Nichols Presidents academy All chapter and colony presidents. Three days of intense personal development.

Answering the call of principled leadership.

Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) A program of the North American Interfraternity Conference. North America’s top Greek leaders.

Five days of embracing Beta’s interfraternal responsibility.

Who: All chapter and colony presidents When: January 18-20, 2013 Where: Cincinnati, Ohio Registration Opens: October 1, 2012 Registration Closes: December 15, 2012

Who: Undergraduate Betas When: 10 sessions May through July, 2013 Where: Bloomington, Ind. Registration Opens: February 1, 2013 Registration Closes: April 1, 2013

John and Nellie WOODEN Institute A pilgrimage home. The challenge of integrity.

Discovering Beta Theta Pi’s true principles.

KEYSTONE leadership Conference Executive chapter officers. Eager chapter advisors. Fanning the flame of principled leadership.

Who: Initiated undergraduates When: Session 1: June 8-12, 2013

Session 2: June 22-26, 2013

Session 3: July 6-10, 2013

Session 4: July 13-17, 2013 Where: Oxford, Ohio Registration Opens: February 1, 2013 Registration Closes: April 1, 2013 Hugh E. Stephenson, Jr. Leadership Summit A unified volunteer corps.

Evolving to meet 21st century needs. Championing Beta’s principles for a better future.

Who: Regional, district and assistant

district chiefs When: January 18-20, 2013 Where: Cincinnati, Ohio Registration Opens: October 1, 2012 Registration Closes: December 15, 2012

Who: Executive officers and

chapter advisory teams When & Where: Feb. 8-10 SC Tulsa, Okla.

NE Cherry Hill, N.J. Feb. 15-17 SE Jacksonville, Fla.

NW Seattle, Wash.

Feb. 22-24 NC Itasca, Ill.

SW Los Angeles, Calif.

Registration Opens: October 1, 2012 Registration Closes: January 20, 2013 Peter E Greiner Leadership College Beta’s Leadership “Superbowl.” A Beta family reunion. Connecting the Beta Spirit with our principled future.

Who: Pledging or initiated

undergraduates When: August 1-4, 2013 Where: 174th General Convention

Charlotte, N.C. Deadline: July 16, 2013

For more information about these programs, please contact: Megan Vadnais Tyler Blair, Denison ’07 Director of Leadership & Education Director of Pursuit megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org tyler.blair@betathetapi.org

6

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

News and Notes

upcoming events January 2013 Leadership Summit....................... 18-20 Cincinnati, Ohio megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org

Beta Magazine Turns 140!

First published as an eight-page monthly on December 15, 1872, by Charles Duy Walker, VMI 1869, The Beta Theta Pi remains the oldest continuously published Greek periodical in existence. And even with the evolution of today’s communication technologies, The Beta Theta Pi serves as a bulletin board as well as a forum for exploring in-depth matters of interest and intrigue to the membership, parents and Friends of Beta. It also serves as a primary record keeper for historical purposes.

Interestingly, on December 30, 2010, the editor was contacted by a book dealer in New Jersey who – at an estate sale – stumbled upon the zinc letterpress plate (above) of the first issue from 1872. For a mere $190, it has been returned home and is now included in the collection of other treasured Beta archives.

Presidents Academy...................... 18-20 Cincinnati, Ohio tyler.blair@betathetapi.org Board of Trustees & Foundation Board Joint Meeting ..................... 25-27 San Francisco, Calif. ryan.king@betathetapi.org

FEBRUARY 2013

Keystone Leadership Conferences

Northeast, Cherry Hill, N.J. ........... 8-10 megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org South Central, Tulsa, Okla. .......... 8-10 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org Northwest, Seattle, Wash. .......... 15-17 megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla. ...... 15-17 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org

“The First Mark of a Beta . . . . . . will be his Beta Spirit!” In August, the Fraternity unveiled BetaSpirit.com at the 173rd General Convention. What started in the early stages as a platform which would allow chapters to purchase customizable, print-on-demand recruitment materials, quickly evolved into a comprehensive online store offering apparel, athletic gear, event favors, gifts and more. To aid Beta chapters in ongoing recruitment efforts, a standing 10% discount is offered on all recruitment materials.

Undergraduate, parent, alumnus or Friend of Beta ... Check it out today!

interfraternally speaking

LCA — Lambda Chi Alpha’s “Investing in Future Leaders Campaign” will bring alumni together to give back to their undergraduate brothers who are working to develop into strong leaders and men of character. Lambda Chi has raised nearly $14 million toward its $20 million campaign goal.

North Central, Itasca, Ill. ............. 22-24 megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org Southwest, Los Angeles, Calif. .. 22-24 tyler.blair@betathetapi.org

GFB — Gamma Phi Beta announced a new philanthropic focus at its 2012 convention: Building Strong Girls.

The new philanthropic focus expresses its mission to provide experiences and resources that build spiritual, mental and social resiliency in women in today’s world.

www.betathetapi.org

7

Opening of the Door

2012-2013 Re/Colonizations Beta Theta Pi is re/colonizing seven campuses across North America this academic year.

Each colony is supported by an on-site colony development coordinator for one year to ensure the successful recruitment, education and training of the Re/Founding Fathers and advisory teams. Review these colonies’ progress and learn more about Beta’s newest men of principle...

Arkansas Founding Fathers

Baylor

Charleston

High Point

MIT

Ohio

WPI

86

12*

48

21*

8*

24*

29*

3.52

3.40

3.50

3.10

3.68

3.30

3.55

# of Advisors

7

4

10

3

10

11

6

# of House Corp Volunteers

5

0

1

1

6

11

2

GPA

*Re/Founding Father recruitment ongoing

University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Ark.

Re/Colonizations • 2012-13 • 2011-12 Re/Colonizations

(Chapman, Creighton, Michigan State, Pacific, TCU, Utah)

Baylor University Waco, Texas

Did you know?: While Refounding Father recruitment is still in progress through the spring, the group already includes several campus leaders, including student senators and business fellows.

Words from a Refounding Father: “I envision this chapter being an organization that fosters leadership development and personal growth, while creating a strong brotherhood.” – Chris Ford ’14 To get involved at Baylor, contact alex.gardner@betathetapi.org.

8

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Did you know? These Founding Fathers include NCAA athletes, Eagle Scouts, student government executives, Olympians, international students and Razorbacks cameramen.

Words from a Founding Father: “I aspire to be a man of more humility than self-satisfied importance. I want the chapter to serve the needs of its members and the community.” – Will Simpson ’14 To get involved at Arkansas, contact trevor.voss@betathetapi.org.

College of Charleston Charleston, S.C.

Did you know?: Charleston’s Founding Father class is represented by men from four continents: Australia, Europe (France and Ireland), North America and South America (Brazil and Columbia).

Words from a Founding Father: “I want a diverse fraternity that can not be labled. Our only reputation should be that all Betas can be classified as gentlemen with quality character.” – Garrick Wier ’15 To get involved at Charleston, contact daen.ekpa@betathetapi.org.

Opening of the Door

High Point University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Did you know? The men at High Point are represented by seven states and include four Eagle Scouts, four resident assistants and four members of student government.

Words from a Founding Father: “Beta Theta Pi will be the fraternity that makes a difference in the community and truly displays morality, civility and chivalry.” – Austin Mincey ’15 To get involved, contact michael.mcphee@betathetapi.org.

Did you know? MIT’s Refounding Father class is still being recruited, but the group is already composed of men from four continents: Australia, Europe, North America and South America.

Words from a Refounding Father: “I want to take part in establishing a solid community, and through that, become part of a legacy of many generations.” – Fernando Rivera-González ’14 To get involved at MIT, contact ryan.gee@betathetapi.org.

High Point, N.C.

Boston, Mass.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Ohio University Athens, Ohio

Worcester, Mass.

Did you know? Ohio’s Refounding Fathers include Young Life leaders in local high schools, a president of the residence hall council and a trumpet player in the marching band.

Words from a Refounding Father: “I am excited to lay down a path for future Betas. I look forward to growing as an individual and with my brothers through this recolonization.” – Jamie Vaughn ’14 To get involved at Ohio, contact jason.gangwer@betathetapi.org.

Did you know? Men of WPI’s Founding Father class are involved in a variety of activities, including student government, pep band drum line, ballroom dance team and an EMS first responder.

Words from a Founding Father: “I want to be a pillar of strength and leadership for those who need a helping hand in life. I know that Beta can help me become this person.” – Jeremy Kibby ’14 To get involved at WPI, contact andrew.porter-price@betathetapi.org

Darkening of the hall Purdue University Location: West Lafayette, Ind. Greek Designation: Beta Mu Founded: September 26, 1903 Chapter Motto: Machinery is king Total Initiates: 2,359 Reason for closure: While many individual undergraduate members excelled in their own collegiate pursuits, hazing and risk management concerns centered around alcohol continued to exist which are incongruent with the values of Beta Theta Pi and Purdue University.

Eastern Illinois University Location: Charleston, Ill. Greek Designation: Colony Founded: September 21, 2007 Total Initiates: 63 Reason for closure: Throughout the last few years, the colony consistently struggled with member recruitment, which created difficulties in sustaining a membership size large enough to remain viable on campus.

www.betathetapi.org

9

MArching Along

Shining Stars of Beta Theta Pi

1

”Give Tanks” is a start-up “social-philanthropy company” created by Miami (Fla.) Beta brothers (Mark Anspach ’14, Mikael Doumeng ’14, and Kap Chatfield ’14), and its “mission is two-fold, with equal focus placed on the conscious consumer and the community development project the customer is representing with their purchase.” The message behind Give Tanks is universal: life is more awesome when you wear a smile and give thanks for the little things. Give Tanks invests 25% of after-tax profits in overlooked communities around the world. Check out give-tanks.com to support the cause.

2

The Fraternity has a long-standing tradition of staying out of the public political debate, but that doesn’t mean Wooglin isn’t smiling on four Beta brothers who won re-election in November: Senator Bill Nelson, Florida/Yale ’65 (FL); Rep. Dave McKinley, Purdue ’69 (WV); Rep. Joe Heck, Penn State ’84 (NV); and Rep. Patrick Meehan, Bowdoin ’78 (PA).

Congratulations, brothers!

“The great use of life is to spend it for something that Will outlast it.” — William James

Are you interested in reading books written by Beta brothers?

Check out www.betathetapi.org/books to peruse the collection of books that brothers across the world have written.

If you’ve written a book and it’s available for purchase on Amazon.com, be sure to let us know at beta@betathetapi.org.

10

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

MArching Along

4

Palazzo Hotel & Casino Chef Scott Pajak, UNLV ’02, competed on the Food Network’s reality cooking competition, “Chopped,” in October. Beating out the challengers, Scott (right, with Famed Chef Emeril) won the competition. BAM! Connect with Scott at scott.pajak.9@ facebook.com.

3

Be on the lookout for two new flavors from the Tootsie Roll Company. Kevin Friedman, Iowa State ’10, developed the new blueberry flavored Tootsie Pop and passion fruit flavored Frootie chew.

Kevin works as a lab technician and is a key member of the product development team. Connect with Kevin at kevin.m.friedman@gmail.com.

5

In his 14th season as head coach of John Carroll University football in Cleveland, Brother Regis Scafe, Western Reserve ’71, locked down his 100th career victory in October.

Congratulate him at rscafe@jcu.edu.

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

6

Mike Hoaglin, Northwestern ’06, is a 2012 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and is a member of well-known Dr. Mehmet’s Oz’s medical team. Look for Hoaglin as he regularly appears on Dr. Oz’s television show, “The Doctor Oz Show.”

7

Fred Pierce, San Diego State ’84, was honored by Ernst & Young as the Entrepreneur of the Year in the San Diego region. Pierce won in the category of Real Estate & Construction.

Congratulate Fred at fpierce@ pierceeducationproperties.com.

8

Kris Swanson, Lawrence ’87, joined PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as a partner in the firm’s U.S. Forensics Services Practice.

Swanson will now serve as the Midwest Market Team Leader.

Congratulate Kris at swansonkk@rcn.com.

www.betathetapi.org

11

Alumni News

Lifelong Fraternal Brotherhood A Man of Principle for the Ages “We take pride in [Beta alumni’s] 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, VMI 1869, in the first edition of The Beta Theta Pi magazine.

Photograph provided by Justin Mayfield

Developed in May 2001, the Francis W. Shepardson Award recognizes brothers who uphold the principles and obligations of the Fraternity and epitomize the concept of lifelong service to Beta Theta Pi. On September 7, the 21st Shepardson Award was awarded posthumously to James J. (Tiger) Ellis, Missouri ’55, during the Missouri chapter’s house dedication ceremony.

Van Ellis receives the Francis W. Shepardson Award in honor of her husband, along with their two daughters, friends and Harold Hook, Missouri ’53, (left) during the Missouri chapter’s house dedication ceremony.

Presenting the award to Ellis’ wife, Van, General Fraternity President Doug Houser, Willamette ’57, spoke of Ellis’ dedication to the Fraternity: “In 2003, Jim was elected to the General Fraternity’s Board of Directors of the Beta Theta Pi Foundation, which is when he and Van named and endowed the Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit – the Fraternity’s hallmark annual program for General Fraternity Officers and district chiefs.

He also served for decades on the house corporation of his beloved Zeta Phi Chapter … He was a man of principle for the ages.”

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

12

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Alumni News

1

“Nor Pass a Brother By” Following a fantastic homecoming weekend at Maine in October, 105 alumni and undergraduate Betas at our cherished and historic Beta Eta Chapter conducted the Loving Cup Ceremony. Brothers sang the “Loving Cup” song nearly 13 times before the cup reached every brother!

4

3

South Dakota’s 100th Anniversary On October 5, the Gamma Alpha Chapter at the University of South Dakota celebrated its 100th anniversary. Nearly 450 people (including 63 Fraternal Fifties, 112 Fraternal Twenty-fives and 142 Beta Sweethearts), made their way to Vermillion, S.D., to enjoy a weekend of friendship and fellowship. The chapter held a Centennial Gala with General Secretary Dave Schmidt, South Florida ’92, attending and Administrative Secretary Jud Horras, Iowa State ’97, serving as the keynote speaker.

Surprise Homecoming This 100-year-old Beta badge of presidential nominee Wendell L. Wilkie, Indiana 1913, arrived at the Administrative Office in Oxford in September.

Defeated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940, Wilkie became a personal ambassador of FDR and was dispatched on multiple inter/national missions.

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt even eulogized Wilkie as a “man of courage ... (whose) outspoken opinions on race relations were among his great contributions to the thinking of the world.”

5

Canadian Kai Scott Falconer, Western Ontario ’82, takes his lifetime commitment to Beta very seriously. Each fall since 1984, Scott has organized a Beta canoe trip for Betas in Canada.

Pictured above are alumni from Beta chapters at Western Ontario, Carleton and Toronto on this year’s 29th annual expedition.

2

A Special Visitor Meet Angus Gordon, the great great grandson of Beta Theta Pi Founder Thomas Boston Gordon, Miami 1840.

In October, Angus stopped by the Administrative Office in Oxford for a surprise visit and promised to go through the family’s historical records and photographs to see if there are any treasures to share with the Fraternity. Stay tuned!

6

Pony Up! In September, 16 Beta alumni from the Gamma Omega Chapter at SMU reunited for an alumni luncheon in Houston. Though some brothers hadn’t seen each other in 50 years, the stories and connections were rekindled instantly in ___kai___.

www.betathetapi.org

13

Parent Spotlight

“We Are Proud Beta Parents.”

Becoming a Gentleman, Leader and Scholar It’s hard to believe four years of being proud Beta parents at John Carroll University have come to an end. Our son, Greg, was lucky to become a Beta as an incoming freshman. At the time, we had no idea the magnitude and honor it was to be a Beta. We can honestly say that Greg’s college experience and personal development in the last four years was largely due to Beta Theta Pi. What parents across North America are saying about the Beta experience: Thank you for your warm welcome. I am optimistic that this will be a great experience for Forrest as well as assist him in developing new friendships and enhancing his leadership skills.

Forrest is my only child and I have raised him on my own. His well-being and successes are extremely important to me. Even more important is that he lives by the golden rule and that he is a man of his word. With that being said, I am a “Momma Bear,” and I expect that this will be a great experience for him. — Jill Gassman, Mother of Forrest Gassman, Iowa ’15 Jeff and Nancy Sloat with their son, Greg, John Carroll ’12

Betas are one of the finest groups of young men on campus. Each man holds up to being a gentleman, leader and scholar. These men are brothers who are there for each other and help one another. When a brother falls short, another brother is always there to offer his guidance and help get him back on track.

When you become a Beta, you gain an instant group of brothers to support you who become genuine, lifelong friends. We have seen Greg’s Beta brothers support him so many times throughout the last four years. When Greg’s grandfather died, his Beta brothers were there at the funeral showing their support. When Greg’s girlfriend was in the hospital emergency room, his Beta brothers were standing by in the waiting room. Any time Greg needed help, a Beta brother was always available to show his support.

Whenever we think back on Greg’s college years at John Carroll, Beta will always be the first thing to come to our minds. For new members who are just beginning the Beta journey, enjoy the honor you have been given to be a Beta. It is now your turn to carry on the Beta legacy as so many graduating seniors have done. And to all of the Beta parents, help your son keep Beta going strong, so parents in the future will also have the privilege of saying, “We are proud Beta parents.” — Jeff and Nancy Sloat, jns555@roadrunner.com

14

THE BETA THETA PI WINTer 2013

My wife (Judy) and I are very pleased that Josh is a member of Beta Theta Pi. — Nick Chiarkas, Father of Gerard Chiarkas, Lawrence ’15 We know several of [our son] Evan’s Beta brothers and are impressed with their character. We are confident that Evan will put as much into making Beta a better organization at TCU as he will benefit from Beta.— Steve and Sharon Folan, Parents of Evan Folan, TCU ’15 We did a lot of research on Beta Theta Pi when Cameron advised us of his interest. Our research told a very compelling story about an organization of high standards and excellence. We are so delighted with Cam’s decision.

—Tom and Deidre McClain, Parents of Cameron T. McClain, Penn State ’15

By Brian Breittholz Featured Writer and Friend of Beta

The face of student housing is changing at a pace college campuses haven’t witnessed since the influx of GI’s after World War II. With housing booms widespread, will fraternity chapters be able to compete and remain relevant with a changing market of needs, desires and expectations?

Historically, college housing was often an afterthought. University funding was primarily invested in classrooms, research labs and facilities, along with athletic programs, faculty salaries and other campus priorities.

Traditionally, student housing was singlesex, double or triple occupancy, and institutionalized. Students lived in dorms or boarding houses often located adjacent to campus. Following World War II — and with the assistance of the GI Bill — veterans flooded campuses, and student housing changed in dramatic ways. Construction was taking off on campuses from coast to coast. Fraternity chapter houses were stuffed to the gills, Vet Villages sprang up, overflow housing became the new normal and wherever free space could be found, students were placed.

Accommodating boomers The trend continued as baby boomers began enrolling in college. Massive building projects were underway on campuses to accommodate the increasingly larger student populations. On many campuses, high-rise halls were constructed with hundreds of students under one roof. Long hallways with standard double rooms, nondescript furnishings and communal showers were standard fare.

16

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Fraternity houses also accommodated the increased membership brought on by the boomers by building new houses or expanding sleeping spaces. Dark, coldroom dorms, with row after row of doubledecked bunks were common. Similar to their dormitory cohorts, there was little, if any, privacy. Housemothers ruled the roosts, often teaching etiquette, good manners and interpersonal skills, while supervising kitchens and mentoring the young fraternity men.

A community Approach As enrollments stabilized in the ’70s and ’80s, student housing changed more in terms of the experience than in the construction of facilities. The days of in loco parentis passed and with its departure went many of the rules and customs that once seemed orthodox. Visitation rules changed.

Not only were men now allowed to visit women’s floors, they could now live on the same floors.

Themed living and learning communities on many campuses are the current trend where

students choose to live in halls that are focused on academic majors or interests, such as the arts, healthy living, leadership and more. (Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, for example, now offers 35 different themed residence halls.) These living and learning halls focus on building community around a core academic area or subject interest. Some classes are even held within the halls, further extending the classroom to the student living experience.

Greater demands College enrollment today is again growing with an estimated 80 million “echo boomers” flooding the campus housing market. According to the Institute of Education Sciences, college enrollment in the United States jumped 38% from 1999 to 2009, to 20.4 million students — and enrollment is expected to continue to grow.

Student housing is once again a priority. What differs from the past, however, is the student demand for their housing arrangements. Past generations barely considered housing options when selecting a college. Instead, emphasis was placed on academic major, costs, financial aid and distance from home. Students arrived on campus with a suitcase in one hand and a trunk filled with clothes clutched behind. In contrast, many students today arrive with their moving vans in tow filled with clothes, furniture, entertainment systems, computers and printers. Today’s students expect all of the bells and whistles in their living space. Now, housing options often include private or semi-private rooms and bathrooms, suites, kitchens with high-end stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops, workout facilities, highspeed Internet, recreation rooms, swimming pools and retail on premise, including coffee shops and mini-marts. The days of barrack-style housing are, for the most part, long gone.

can the Chapter House compete?

As campuses evolve to meet students’ housing demands, the relevance of today’s fraternity house must be examined. Are chapter houses “up to snuff” with the competition of university housing or the private apartment/housing facilities that have feverishly sprung up?

Pete Smithhisler, executive vice president of the North-American Interfraternity Conference comments, “The older infrastructure of many fraternity houses put them at odds with today’s student lifestyles.” Smithhisler believes housing remains an important part of the overall fraternity experience, but is concerned about facilities that are unappealing to students.

“It used to be an honor to live in a chapter house. Now, the goal oftentimes is to get out as fast as you can.”

While not all Beta Theta Pi chapters and colonies live in official chapter houses, the fact remains that all collegiate Betas can benefit from a living environment that is safe, brotherhood- and academic-centered, and competitive with the demands of today’s student housing trends. The Fraternity’s chapters at the University of Missouri, the University of Utah, and the University of Alabama have each recently initiated major housing initiatives that address many of these concerns head-on. While addressing contemporary desires, they also remain true to their historic commitment to Beta’s principles. Each chapter made wise investments to ensure their facilities met safety standards and personal interests of students, while also being transformational in their impact on the fraternity experience. www.betathetapi.org

17

University of Missouri Since Zeta Phi’s founding in 1890, the alumni have historically built a new chapter house about every 50 years. This time, the house corporation asked the selected architect to “build us the finest fraternity house in North America.”

On September 7, 2012, 700 Betas and guests gathered in Columbia for the dedication of the newly constructed chapter house. It was quite obvious to all in attendance that Zeta Phi achieved its goal.

18

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

“As university housing upgraded during the past 10 years, it became apparent we needed to look to a new house,” said House Corporation President John Hofman, Missouri ’82. “If we’re going to compete for the best and brightest students, we have to have a competitive facility.”

different expectations Plans for the new house began to take shape in 2005, when chapter members raised issues about the condition of the house. A small group of alumni formed a steering committee to explore options.

Like many other campuses, housing was becoming increasingly competitive at Mizzou. With upgraded residence halls on campus, and luxury apartments off-campus, housing competition was becoming heated, placing many fraternity houses at a disadvantage.

Students were arriving at Mizzou with different expectations for housing than previous generations. “It wasn’t long ago when a typical student coming from St. Louis grew up in a 2,000-square-foot house, sharing his bedroom with a brother or sister and a bathroom with his entire family.

Today, their homes are double the size, and they’ve never shared a room, much less a bathroom,” said House Corporation Board Member John Hillhouse, Missouri ’69.

Hillhouse added, “When the university stepped up their [housing] game, we wanted to provide a facility the chapter deserved.

We wanted a great facility that projected an image that Betas were no slouchers.”

a Committee with a Vision A handful of alumni, including Hillhouse, Hofman, Bill Toalson ’70, and David Spence ’80, formed the steering committee and began conversations with other Betas about the need to either renovate or rebuild.

Early on, the house corporation board retained the services of Pennington & Company, a firm that specializes in fraternal fundraising. Pennington conducted the feasibility study and met with alumni to assess their interest and commitment.

Recognizing the need to provide a living and learning experience with appropriate technology capability, sufficient individual and group study space, and sleeping facilities that were up to safety codes and met student desires, alumni overwhelmingly concluded a new house was needed.

When the financial crisis hit in 2008, construction was deferred. Planning remained and Zeta Phi alumni leaders continued to seek support from other alumni for this important initiative. Not everyone

was sold, however, on the need to move forward or on the ability to raise the $10 million needed to complete the campaign.

“There were a lot of nay sayers early on,” said Spence. “We set bold goals. It’s about the power of positive thinking.”

According to Hofman, “We originally faced significant alumni opposition. We heard, ‘They don’t need it … the old house is good enough.’”

“Let’s go build one” Hofman recalls visiting campus with his daughter during her senior year of high school. When he saw the new dorms with all of the enhanced upgrades, he knew action was needed before the Beta house became an afterthought. Although he had not been involved in the Zeta Phi House Corporation, he attended a board meeting the next day and pronounced the chapter needed a new house. He reached out to Spence, who replied, “Let’s go build one.”

Spence was one of the driving forces with the new house, as he understood that the existing structure wasn’t meeting the needs of current students — much less future Betas — and the housing market was becoming increasingly competitive at Mizzou. In designing the new chapter house, Spence added, “We tried to extrapolate out a few years and create a combination of room arrangements that would be appealing to the students.” The campaign resumed earlier than planned when Richard Miller, Missouri ’70, provided a significant gift to move up the building project timeline.

With the new, 36,385 square-foot chapter house, Zeta Phi was beginning with a fresh palate. Increasing sleeping room capacity and designs was a priority. Expanding the number of spaces for individual and group study was another. “Kids work harder academically today. We simply needed to expand the common area for academic space and gathering,” commented Hillhouse.

“When I was in school, we studied in our rooms or in the library. [Students] want nicer facilities today. Technology plays a big role, and they’re now doing a lot more group work that requires different types of space.”

With all the amenities taken into account in its construction, the Missouri house has proven it’s relevancy in student housing through an emphasis on creating a safe, brotherhood- and academic-centered living environment.

3

2

4 1

1) Campaign Chairman Dave Spence ’80, flanked by University of Missouri President and Beta Tim Wolfe ’80, House Corporation President John Hofman ’82, and wife Suzanne Spence; 2) House Mother Lana Cameron; 3) Bust of Jim “Tiger” Ellis, Missouri ’55, keeping watchful eye over the “Tiger’s Den”; 4) Fireplace in the Inglenook Room, now residing in its third Zeta Phi chapter house. www.betathetapi.org

19

A Look Inside With a nod to history and a progressive vision for the future of student housing, Zeta Phi’s chapter house is wrapped in tradition and competitive with the best facilities and living spaces on campus.

documenting history Zeta Phi’s proud heritage is on display for all to enjoy with the creation of a chapter museum. It was dedicated to the class of 1980

by Henry A. Plain Jr. , Missouri ’80. Assistant General Fraternity Historian Zac Haines, Miami ’05 (right), led the research effort.

The museum contains showcases with artifacts and panels highlighting the chapter’s achievements in the arts, communications, business, sports and public service/government.

One museum case is dedicated to Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr., Missouri ’43. A former General Fraternity President, Vice President, district chief, chapter counselor and house corporation member, Stephenson had a distinguished career as a cardio-thoracic surgeon. Even though he passed away just three weeks before the students moved in, Toalson, Hillhouse and others carried him in his wheelchair through all levels and corners of the under-construction facility to make sure he understood the significance of his seven decades of mentorship.

“The museum is a phenomenal representation of our history and our successes. It’s a unique element that gives a detailed taste of what Zeta Phi is all about,” said Chapter Counselor Jason Swindle ’90. In addition to the displays, the museum includes a digital archive where any brother can type in his name and his composite will surface, along with that year’s recruitment guide and other memorabilia.

20

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Academic-centered facilities A unique feature of the chapter house is the Spence Family Auditorium. The room seats 130 people with raised platforms arranged in a semi-circle. “This one-ofa-kind feature is one that we hope to use with the rest of campus,” says Swindle.

Conceived by Spence, the room will be used by Betas and others on campus, including academic departments.

Spence believes in a long-term view and including features that bring people together. “We need to be more inclusive rather than exclusive, and this room helps us engage others. It’s the first of its kind in the country.”

Used heavily for study tables, the auditorium is also a great spot for presentations. Recently, the chapter launched the Miller Leadership Series and features a variety of educational and professional enrichment speakers. Along with Betas, the series includes Sigma Chi, Delta Tau Delta and Alpha Gamma Sigma fraternity brothers. Plans are underway to soon hold the Chancellor’s Leadership Class for first-year students, along with business school classes on premises as well.

In addition to the auditorium, the lower level features a board room and a number of small breakout rooms, which are ideal for studying. The expanded academic space is designed for the changing ways students study and is equipped with high-speed internet, increased electrical power and white boards. All study rooms were sponsored

by Zeta Phi alumni.

www.betathetapi.org

21

First Floor Highlights • Entry foyer opens to grand staircase and flows into exterior terrace • Two-story open Great Hall • Living room and recreation room for brotherhood enjoyment • Library and conference room for academic success

• Retains historical Inglenook from original Beta house • Secure kitchen and pantry with weekend buffet area • Double the size of the housemother’s suite with private washer and dryer • Men’s and women’s restrooms

Second Floor 22

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Select photographs provided by Justin Mayfield and Tim Irons

Basement Highlights • 130-seat auditorium to allow for presentations and events • Chapter room to hold entire chapter • Project room for construction projects • Conference room for chapter leadership • Laundry facility • Men’s and women’s restrooms

Basement

First Floor

Second and Third Floor Highlights

Third Floor

• Two- and four-man bedrooms for 66 men (Another 44 men live in the chapter annex) • 17 private study rooms • Large group study room on second floor with terrace to Great Hall • Conference room on second floor to aid in academic focus www.betathetapi.org

23

University of Utah One of the most heartbreaking situations for Beta alumni is deciding to close a chapter. Alumni leaders from the University of Utah helped make that difficult decision in March 2010, following ongoing risk management and chapter performance issues. Instead of walking away completely, alumni doubled down and committed to restoring Gamma Beta as a shining star of Beta Theta Pi.

In mid-2010, a steering committee of 30 Gamma Beta alumni took on the responsibility of coordinating the fundraising and renovation of the chapter house. On the heels of the chapter’s recent closure, Chapter Counselor Mark Foote, Utah ’84, said, “We had two parallel tracks progressing: one was focused on restarting the chapter and one devoted to restoring the house.”

The existing house needed significant repair. “We completely renovated it, down to the studs,” said Foote. “The house had completely deteriorated. It needed to be completely redone, from the wiring and plumbing to the HVAC.” Cary Dunn, Utah ’77, served as the architect for the project. He visited Penn State and Miami to inspect their chapter houses and consider different options. “We initially thought about adding on and adding more living space. We concluded in the end to stick within the existing framework.”

Recruiting a founding base A fundraising consultant was retained and efforts were quickly underway to raise $1.5 million for the housing project. While fundraising was taking off, General Fraternity Recolonization Coordinators Phil Fernandez, Miami ’06, and Andrew Willert, Miami (Fla.) ’09, began the process of identifying and recruiting the colony’s Refounding Fathers.

Charles (Chas) Foote, Utah ’15, was one of the first students recruited.

Chas grew up learning about Beta from his father, Mark, who was a former chapter president and the current chapter counselor. Like many students who are attracted to new chapters, Chas commented, “I really loved the values and the focus on academics . . . At Utah, Greek life was pretty much viewed as a party scene. The fraternity stereotype was of guys who don’t go to class. [The Refounding Fathers] bonded by not doing those things.”

The Refounding Fathers quickly established themselves on campus and grew in size. The founding class initiated 43 new brothers and now surpasses 80 men. “We were a breath of fresh air to the administration and the sorority women. I believe we elevated Greek life as a whole,” said Chas.

With guidance and support of advisors, the new colony took off.

24

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

1

Ripped down to the studs

Invigorated alumni support

While recruiting principled new members and developing strategies for success, alumni were raising funds and undertaking a complete rehab of the existing property.

“You could actually see the roof from the ground floor. Everything was ripped out, down to the studs,” said Chas. Dunn added, “We made the decision to do it right so we wouldn’t have to redo it down the road.

We ripped out all of the old wiring. Now everything is up to code.”

The chapter celebrated the opening of the new house with a ribbon cutting ceremony on August 16. With nearly 300 people visiting throughout the weekend, the event included a number of speakers and tours of the house.

“We are very thankful for our alumni for their dedication and support,” Chas said.

While renovating the house to meet the needs of today’s contemporary fraternity chapter, Dunn believes, “we were able to maintain the integrity of the old house while making everything new and safe.”

Several alumni were involved in the design and construction, including Betas at Okland Construction.

The new house is widely recognized on campus as one of the nicest. The chapter provides a contemporary living environment that is clean, attractive and safe. The house sleeps 21 men in fullyfurnished rooms, is completely wired for the technological needs and has plenty of space on the third floor for studying, along with ample space for informal socializing.

3

Just shy of the $1.5 million goal, fundraising efforts are ongoing. The outstanding funds will be designated to build a chapter room.

“We’ve seen that chapters with chapter rooms tend to be more grounded in the ideals of the Fraternity,” commented Mark Foote. If the pieces come together, construction will resume in May. Students will move out and construction crews will move in to dig out a basement below the current foundation of the house to create an actual chapter room.

In addition to meeting the needs of today’s students, the successful recolonization of Gamma Beta invigorated alumni support.

The new house provided a rallying point for alumni interested in ensuring Beta’s legacy at Utah remains strong.

4

Before and After 1/2) “The Grand Staircase” in the main foyer connects the first and second floors. Hanging above the staircase is a banner that reads: “3.5 – Be a Man of Principle Today!” encouraging brothers to strive for academic success and live Beta’s values. 3/4) The “John Reily Knox Room” is where chapter meetings, executive committee meetings and all other official Gamma Beta business is held, until the chapter room is finished next summer.

2

What is Cornerstone?

Beta’s Cornerstone Housing Program provides advocacy, insurance, education and support to Beta house corporations and local house corporation volunteers.

House corporations join Cornerstone by participating in Beta’s property insurance program, which provides competitively-priced property insurance with generous discounts for safe practices like sprinkler systems, alcohol free facilities and live-in house directors.

If you have questions regarding chapter housing, contact Anne Emmerth, Director of Cornerstone Housing Program at the Administrative Office, 800.800.BETA or anne. emmerth@betathetapi.org.

www.betathetapi.org

25

University of Alabama At a time when many colleges and universities are distancing themselves from Greek organizations, the University of Alabama is following a different playbook by embracing Greek life and supporting Greek housing construction and improvements on campus.

Under the leadership of former University President Robert Witt, who wanted to expand the school’s presence, prestige and enrollment, Alabama invested heavily in facilities and services. Understanding that prospective students decide if they can see themselves “fittingin” within minutes of their arrival, the university didn’t waste time getting ahead of the curve.

Attracting and matriculating high-performing students worked in conjunction with the school’s effort to re-engage Greek alumni in the current experience on campus. “Greeks were used as part of the student recruitment effort,” said John Murdock, president of Greek resource services in Tuscaloosa. Fraternity and sorority membership has more than doubled in the past decade with more than 6,000 current students involved. At the same time, the All-Fraternity GPA rose from a 2.36 to 2.82.

Investing in Greek Life Many of the existing chapter houses were in need of serious renovations. They were not competitive with university upgrades and private housing developments adjacent to campus. Instead of allowing the situation to deteriorate, the university invested in Greek Life.

“We view fraternity and sorority housing as an extension of our residential community,” said Dana Keith, the university’s associate vice president of finance. “We want our students to live in safe and healthy environments.”

Continued expansion of sorority row, on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa, as of August 13, 2012.

26

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Photograph provided by This House is Home, www.ThisHouseIsHome.net

The Phi Delta Theta house (top) and the Delta Gamma house (bottom) at Alabama, after university-supported renovations.

According to Murdock, more than $178 million has been invested in Greekrelated projects. Beta was one of the first organizations to take advantage of the university’s support to build its brand new $4 million home.

If you build it . . .

Founded in 1965, Delta Theta is one of the youngest chapters at Alabama. With close to 150 brothers currently in school, the chapter is excelling. House Corporation President Bark Boardman ’79, commented, “Our philosophy [in taking on risk of investing in the new house] was ‘if you build it, they will come.’” Boardman expressed the house corporation’s commitment to ensuring the chapter had an outstanding residence if they began achieving their potential.

Keith said, “We encouraged house corporations to develop business plans that allowed them to financially support housing projects.” Construction was funded through a combination of alumni gifts and lowinterest financing. After a collaborative effort, the Alabama Beta’s were able to build their new house.

In a prime location, directly across from Bryant-Denny Stadium, the new house features ample study space, the latest technology, fire suppression, security systems and a meal program. With 35 bedrooms, the house more than quadruples the number of rooms in the former house.

Boardman shared how inspiring it is overlooking the “Walk of Champions” on game day, when fans line up to cheer on the Crimson Tide as they parade into the

stadium. “On game day, anywhere from 200300 brothers, alumni and guests partake in festivities at the house prior to kick-off.

Once others saw Beta’s success, they followed suit. “We were the first to build a new structure and many other groups are now either renovating or knocking down and rebuilding,” added Boardman.

A collaborative effort “Although we know that a house doesn’t make a chapter, in this case it was the perfect storm,” Murdock said. “The football team was taking off again, the Betas had a brand new house across the street, enrollment was increasing and Beta’s membership soared.”

“The new facilities are not what you’d imagine in a typical fraternity house. It’s a nice place. Upperclassmen want to stay in the house and house occupancy is nearly 100 percent,” said Murdock. “This has been a huge team effort. The university wants Greeks to succeed. Alumni are energized again. There’s no animosity between the students and the university. Everyone seems to be on the same page.”

“The university went out on a limb and good alumni helped the chapter perform at a higher level,” said Gentry McCreary, former director of Greek affairs. “There’s no question the house has impacted the quality of the chapter as well.”

“We wouldn’t have built it if we didn’t believe they’d be successful. And they proved us right,” Boardman proudly declared.

www.betathetapi.org

27

Mom Lonker, Meet Beta Bobbie was first introduced to Beta Theta Pi when her cousins Larry Jones, Kansas State ’59, and Jerry Jones, Kansas State ’60, joined the Gamma Epsilon Chapter. During her interactions with them, Bobbie became fond of one of her cousins’ chapter brothers, Jim Lonker, Kansas State ’60. Jim and Bobbie married in 1961, and had three children: two sons and a daughter. Both of her sons became Gamma Epsilon Betas, but this isn’t how Bobbie became the house mother she is today. Instead, it was a family tragedy and the compassion of the chapter that brought her to Manhattan.

During the last 23 years, Beta Theta Pi’s Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Kansas State University has had hundreds of brothers pass through its halls in Manhattan, Kansas.

All of these collegiate men have been under the watchful eye of one incredible house mother: Bobbie Lonker.

In July 1988, Bobbie’s husband succumbed to cancer, leaving her with the responsibility of running — on her own — the family cattle ranch. That fall, Bobbie visited her two sons in Manhattan for the chapter’s Parents’ Weekend. During the visit, Bobbie learned that the previous house mother had just retired, and the men discussed the possibility of Bobbie becoming the chapter’s new house mother. Because most of the members already knew her, they thought she would be a great fit.

After an interview process, Bobbie was invited to take over the position. She accepted, but not without considering her obligations back home.

Benefits of a house director . . .

The house director or “house mom/dad” serves as a mentor and friend to chapter members. Having a respected adult living on-site creates a warmer and safer environment, and properties with house directors tend to be better maintained and more attractive over the long term. Additional benefits include discounted property insurance and reassurance for parents that their son will be living in an environment that enriches his academic experience – not undermine it.

28

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

• Lives in the chapter house • Works closely with the house corporation board to ensure the property is well-maintained • Makes sure the facility is running smoothly • Hires/manages employees and oversees the meal plan • Deals with minor maintenance and repairs

Kansas State Chapter House

“It was a hard decision to leave,” Bobbie said. “I still had my responsibilities to the ranch, but I loved being a homemaker, so I thought I’d give it a try.”

Building a home Soon after, Bobbie moved in to the chapter house, and every day since then she has held the same philosophy: treat every young man like he is her own son and make the chapter house a home away from home.

Bobbie’s devotion to the men is endless.

If someone is running late to class, she drives them to make sure he is on time. If someone is ill, she cooks soup to make him feel better. In addition to creating a warm environment away from home, Bobbie ensures the men are having a quality Beta experience.

She prepares the dining room each week for the chapter’s formal dinner, attends weekly executive officer meetings, and cheers on the men at their intramural games. Most importantly, Bobbie is a listener.

they ask for suggestions, and when they do, I try to help them as best as I can.”

Not Like the Movies Bobbie has loved every year of her tenure and says the reason she has stayed involved is because of the quality of men in the chapter.

“I have stayed with the chapter because of the type of boys that we have and the principles of Beta that they represent,” said Bobbie. “This chapter thinks of a fraternity as a home away from home — not like one from the movies. That’s what I try to make it.”

Mom Lonker believes in the positive effect Beta Theta Pi can have on young men, and she strives to give every Beta who lives there an environment in which they can learn and grow.

As Bobbie puts it, she is “just the little old lady behind these outstanding young men.” To them, Mom Lonker is so much more: she’s a guide, a caretaker, a friend — but most importantly, she is a mother.

“Like any mother would do, I try to be a good listener and help each young man with problems he may be having,” Bobbie said. “I’m not trying to run the chapter.

I’m just trying to be a helper. It’s their house and they run it. But, sometimes Mom Lonker celebrates with the Betas after their third straight intramural football championship.

www.betathetapi.org

29

From the Archives

From These Doors The City looked seedy and grimy. It was only forty miles from a great metropolis and it had never gotten over being a poor relation where small plants and factories had been built. But there was in the center of the city a very old college. The red sandstone buildings were ancient. Later, additional buildings had been erected. They were nondescript or hideous.

(Now a new campus was being built ten miles away.)

The street was lined on both sides with large detached frame houses dating back to the turn of the century.

In these houses the prosperous of the city had once lived. Now for decades these had been the “fraternity houses” of the college.

Today these houses and the grounds around them were far from inviting. To be frank the street had run down and it all made one think of a dirty, tired child who needed to be given a bath and put to bed.

Inside these houses the floors as one entered from the porch were covered with worn carpets.

The rooms had over-stuffed furniture with breaks in the leather. Rickety lamps stood around and the marks of hard use and wear were on everything. The dining room was furnished with austere tables and chairs.

It smelled of decades of food. The former card room was now the TV room. In the basement there was a so-called game room and the collection of things no longer useful but not discarded. The second and third floors had bedrooms which only an undergraduate could so disorganize and there in retreat study, sleep, and perfect idleness to a degree which at this point in his life must have been for him a simulation of Nirvana.

Three hundred miles away amid green hills a small village with a very old small college nestled on the valley floor. The buildings were uniformly beautifully Colonial. Two or three buildings of “heaven knows what” had been added, but now had come the modern functional to rob the scene of its uniqueness and to break the spell of loveliness.

On the broad street, high on terraces stood enormous columned Neo-Classic houses—Fraternity Row. The grounds around the houses were well kept. Inside on the first floor there were spacious rooms with fireplaces and inviting and comfortable furniture. The dining room offered attractive tables which at meal time were attended by waiters. Maids kept the upstairs rooms and made the beds.

30

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

These were only two of hundreds of places where chapters of Greek Letter college fraternities “lived, moved, and had their being.”

Forth from these houses over many years had come: Men who would look back on their four years in their chapter as one of the most priceless experiences of their lives.

Men who in the world of affairs would again and again identify themselves by the name of their fraternity.

Men who would devotedly serve their college.

Men who would become officers and leaders of their fraternity.

Men who would never forget the impression the ideals of their fraternity had made upon them when they were boys in their late teens.

Men who learned what deep, abiding, unbroken, rich, and inspiring friendship can be.

Men who here learned that in brotherhood men can accomplish things which no man would ever want to accomplish alone or could.

Forth from these doors came many men who would never think of their chapters again. Men who would say, “I never took much interest in my fraternity and I have never been active in it.”

Yes, forth from these doors came men with all the differences found in the commonalty of man, but the fact remains and it is now a part university and history that the Greek Letter fraternity has had a large part in building men. Forth from hundreds of houses standing near the campus of hundreds of universities have come men who if they were asked to name possessions in life most real and cherished by them would say, “My membership in my fraternity.”

— Inter Fratres, October 1967

“Let us remember that every single Beta Convention is special, and that we are here for a reason . . .�

173rd general Convention Undergraduate delegates and General Fraternity Officers conduct the business of the Fraternity in the legislatioin hall.

Convention by the Numbers

“ . . . We are here for Relationship Cultivation,

Alumni...................................... 153 Guests ......................................57 VIPs.............................................8 Delegates................................ 115 Leadership College Participants..............................323 Convention Symposium Participants................................59 Housing Summit Participants................................32 Board of Trustees Members....... 11 Foundation Board of Directors................................ 10 General Fraternity Officers.........50 Administrative Office Staff..........44 Vendors..................................... 11

Total Convention Attendees................. 763

Business of the Fraternity, Education, Beta Inspiration, Recognition and Celebration.”

— Bill Lowry, Kenyon ’56, 173rd Convention Emcee

taking care of Business Another GPA Beta First The 108 chapter delegates were hard at work during convention, approving a historic change to The Code of Beta Theta Pi that raised the minimum chapter academic standard to the All-Men’s Average of each campus, but no less than a 2.8 GPA. The change took effect immediately, making Beta Theta Pi the first fraternity to adopt the All-Men’s Average as a universal academic standard. This change came after a year during which Beta’s AllChapter GPA reached a record-breaking 3.15!

Six Charters Granted In addition to approving academic standards, the delegates listened to the charter petitions of six colonies: South Carolina, Penn State, Iowa State, Maryland, Furman and Northeastern. Following a review of each presentation, the chapter delegates voted to grant charters to all six colonies, including presenting the men of our chapter at Northeastern in Boston with their new Greek designation, Eta Zeta.

Board Members Appointed The Fraternity recognized General Treasurer Mike Feinstein, MIT ’82, and Vice President Joe Troncale, Alabama ’63, who completed their terms on the Board of Trustees, and Rick Spangler, North Carolina ’71, who completed his term on the Foundation Board of Directors.

Likewise, two individuals were appointed to the Board of Trustees: Ben Swartz, Connecticut ’05, as Vice President, and Lynn Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64, as General Treasurer.

Emcee Bill Lowry, Kenyon ’56, welcomes Betas on stage for the Convention Countdown.

of 32

H E A RT

and

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

MIND

Jenny Levering, Delta Gamma, receives Beta’s Interfraternalism Award from Houser and Schmidt.

2012 Awards of the 173rd general Convention House Director of the Year Connie Moore, Iowa State Edward B. Taylor Advisor of the Year Lindsey Mercer, San Diego Outstanding Greek Advisor Russell Best, Cincinnati Interfraternalism Recognition Award Jenny Levering, Delta Gamma Rookie District Chief of the Year Lucas Christain, Iowa ’03 District Chief of the Year Michael Hay, Eastern Kentucky ’94

Undergraduate Betas engage with Convention Veteran Ferd Del Pizzo, Washington in St. Louis ’58.

CHanging The Game Introducing Beta Spirit At the Welcoming Banquet, General Secretary David Schmidt, South Florida ’92, took the podium to unveil a muchneeded resource to convention attendees: “What started in the early stages as a resource to allow chapters to conveniently obtain customizable, print-on-demand recruitment materials, quickly evolved into a comprehensive online store for apparel, athletic gear, event favors, gifts, and more – all shipped to your home within a quick turnaround time of 48 hours.” To aid all Beta chapters in their ongoing recruitment efforts, Schmidt announced a 10% discount on all recruitment materials purchased through BetaSpirit.com.

Concluding The Trilogy BetaSpirit.com wasn’t the only surprise announced at the Welcoming Banquet.

Editor Emeritus of The Beta Theta Pi

magazine and Shepardson Award Recipient L.E (Erv) Johnson, Idaho ’53, introduced Betas in the Arts, the final book in the Fraternity’s trilogy. A 192-page treasure sharing a litany of distinguished Betas who have devoted their lives to all forms of art, Betas in the Arts comes on the heels of Johnson’s Beta Statesmen (2010) and Beta Heroes (2011).

Inaugural Housing Summit In addition to a new online store and a new Beta book, the Fraternity changed the game with the inaugural Housing Summit — Beta’s second new program to be unveiled at convention in two years.

Sponsored by Beta’s Cornerstone Housing Program, Housing Summit is a two-day conference for house corporation volunteers that is hosted in conjunction with convention. Housing Summit provides leaders of Beta’s physical facilities the opportunity to learn about student housing trends, while receiving resources and training on leading and operating effective house corporations. Participants participated in workshops and listened to speakers, while learning about Beta’s new Cornerstone Housing Program — the Fraternity’s signature effort for house corporation support.

Jerry M. Blesch General Secretary Leadership Award Chris Dietzel, Michigan ’12 Whitman Choral Cup Lawrence New Song Competition Dan Harcourt, Northeastern ’15 Shelby L. Molter Song Competition Lawrence North Dakota Award for Chapter Publications Cincinnati Cornell (Honorable Mention) Website Excellence Award San Diego Michigan (Honorable Mention) H.H. Stephenson Jr. Award for Historical Preservation and Research Cornell Virginia (Honorable Mention) Charles Henry Hardin Leadership Development Awards Case Western Reserve Northeastern Cincinnati San Diego Cornell South Dakota Iowa State Stevens John Carroll UCLA Kentucky Wabash Kettering B Washington in St. Louis Maryland Westminster Michigan Wisconsin-Oshkosh Minnesota Wittenberg Highest overall # of leadership program participants Kettering B (25 men)

Pete Smithhisler, President and CEO of the North-American Interfraternity Conference, during Friday’s Awards Luncheon.

www.betathetapi.org

33

173rd general Convention Beta Sweethearts Karen Chinnici and Kara Horras enjoy the Convention Symposium.

Highest overall % of chapter participating in leadership programs Kettering B (81%) John Holt Duncan Service Award: Best Annual Project Vanderbilt Chapman (Honorable Mention) John Holt Duncan Service Award: Best Ongoing Project Kentucky Minnesota (Honorable Mention) Virginia Tech Award for Scholastic Achievement Case Western Reserve Centre Cornell Kansas Northwestern San Diego South Carolina Virginia Washington Washington in St. Louis

Pete Barnhart receives the Francis W. Shepardson Award from Doug Houser (Top). Oxford Cup Recipient and Nobel Prize honoree Dale Mortensen speaks at the Convention Symposium (Bottom).

Senator Lugar addresses the convention attendees at Saturday’s Celebration Banquet (Right).

Most improved GPA East Carolina (2.75 to 2.97)

Worthy of the Highest honors

High Overall GPA Cornell (3.59)

Celebrating A True Man of Principle

Outstanding Recruitment Award Cincinnati John Carroll Kansas Oklahoma State South Carolina New Member Education Award Michigan Campus Involvement Award Central Michigan Connecticut Cornell Creighton John Carroll Kentucky Nebraska Penn State SMU Stevens Wabash Outstanding Alumni Relations Case Western Reserve

At the Celebration Banquet, General Secretary David Schmidt presented a special recognition of Senator Richard Lugar, Denison ’54, who is nearing the end of his 36 years of service as the United States Senator of Indiana. “Senator Lugar has always made time for this fraternity – evidenced by his attendance at almost every single convention since 1997, when he enthusiastically accepted the role as international spokesman of the Men of Principle initiative,” said Schmidt. “Most are probably not aware that [Senator Lugar] leaves for Russia early tomorrow morning by request of the United States Defense Department.

Only someone like Brother Lugar would schedule his international trip regarding nuclear arms reduction around a Beta convention!”

In recognition of Senator Lugar’s Beta service, Schmidt asked all chapter delegates in the room to stand: “In order to create a lasting recognition for this Beta Great’s contribution, we are excited to announce that, beginning with this 173rd General Convention, all chapter delegates of a Beta convention will now be recognized as ‘Lugar Fellows’ for the work they do on behalf of their individual chapters and our Great and Good Fraternity, and how their legislative efforts resemble so closely those of one of mankind’s greatest servants and our dear Beta brother, Richard G. Lugar.”

Recognizing A Committed Beta Developed in May 2001, the Francis W. Shepardson Award recognizes brothers who embody the spirit and dedication of Brother Shepardson and epitomize the concept of lifelong service to the Fraternity. This year, General Fraternity President Doug Houser, Willamette ’57, awarded the Shepardson Award to Pete Barnhart, Miami ’66.

Attending his 40th convention, Barnhart served a five-year term as the Fraternity’s fourth Administrative Secretary, starting in 1972. Additionally, Barnhart served three years as Vice President of the Board of Trustees. At a chapter level, Barnhart volunteered as assistant

of 34

H E A RT

and

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

MIND

British Columbia Betas Lucas Steigberger ’15, Calvin Kwong ’13, and Salar Fazeli ’14, attend Friday’s excursion to the White Sox game.

chapter counselor for the Denison chapter and as the chapter counselor for the Ohio State chapter. Since 1984, Barnhart has served on Beta’s Advisory Council.

From Nobel Prize To Oxford Cup Developed in 1984, the Oxford Cup recognizes the highest order of individual achievement. Recipients must be loyal Betas who have brought honor to the Fraternity through distinguished service and accomplishment in their chosen professional field.

“Our honored guest certainly meets all of these requirements,” said Houser, before presenting the award to 2010 Nobel Prize Winner in Economics Dale Mortensen, Willamette ’61. “You pioneered the theory of job search and search unemployment, and your insight has become the leading technique for analysis of labor markets and the effects of labor market policy,” added Houser. “Dale, at every juncture of your career, you set the bar high and you achieved your goal. In doing so, you enriched all of your fellow brothers.”

The Promises to Keep Advancing Men of Principle As convention weekend came to an end, General Treasurer Mike Feinstein, MIT ’82, and John Stebbins, Emory ’92, took the stage to reflect on the Fraternity’s future via the Men of Principle initiative. In keeping with Beta’s tradition of continued success, the Fraternity unveiled The Promises to Keep Campaign — an initiative to continue developing men of principle for a principled life — while announcing six lead gifts totalling more than $5,000,000.

The goals of The Promises to Keep Campaign are to expand leadership programs and reduce participant expenses, harness new online technologies that engage and train Betas and volunteers year-round, complete renovations at the Administrative Office ahead of Beta’s 175th anniversary in 2014, and launch a new archives preservation initiative to make historic artifacts available online to those who wish to study the history of the Fraternity. — Mike Roupas, Iowa ’10, mike.roupas@betathetapi.org

“Without the scores of alumni, undergraduates and

friends . . . the successes our Fraternity has achieved the last 20 years would certainly not have been possible.” — Mike Feinstein, MIT ’82

Excellence in Risk Management California, Irvine Case Western Reserve Colgate Dayton John Carroll Kentucky San Diego Stevens Most Improved Chapter Award Maryland The Sisson Award is named in memory of former General Fraternity President, General Treasurer and General Secretary, Francis H. Sisson, Knox 1892. It is presented annually to chapters that maintain high standards and inspire total chapter participation, cooperation and involvement. (Total number of Sisson Awards received to date listed in parenthesis.)

Alabama (7) Case Western Reserve (8) Central Michigan (12) Cincinnati (14) Cornell (11) DePauw (11) Eastern Kentucky (6) Idaho (15) Indiana (12) John Carroll (2) Johns Hopkins (5) Kansas State (24) Kettering B (4) Minnesota (15) Missouri (26) Missouri - Kansas City (18)

North Carolina (4) Oklahoma (13) Penn State (16) San Diego (6) SMU (4) South Carolina (1) Southern California (4) Stevens (6) Truman State (13) Virginia (4) Virginia Tech (7) Wabash (10) Washington (10) Washington in St. Louis (12) Wittenberg (9)

The John Reily Knox Chapter Excellence Award was approved at the 158th General Convention and requires the utmost involvement, leadership and success of a chapter, and is the highest honor a chapter can receive. The Knox Award raises the bar for chapters in such areas as ritual, leadership, community service, campus involvement and singing. Since the award’s inception in 1997 – including this year – only 40 chapters have received it. (Total number of Knox Awards received to date listed in parenthesis.)

Case Western Reserve (4) Central Michigan (1) Cincinnati (2) Cornell (1) Idaho (4) John Carroll (1) Johns Hopkins (1) Kansas State (9) Kettering B (2)

Missouri (6) Missouri - Kansas City (4) Penn State (1) San Diego (3) SMU (2) Truman State (7) Virginia Tech (2) Washington (4) Washington in St. Louis (3)

thanks to our sponsors and vendors Billhighway Chapter Core Get Some Greek Geico

Greek Year Book Greek Nation GRS Properties, LLC Herff Jones

Neurosearch Pennington & Company Willis North America

Lead gift supporter, Lynn Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 (Left). Symposium speaker and former Indiana Lt. Gov. John Mutz, Northwestern ’57 (Right).

www.betathetapi.org

35

Relationships Reconnect with chapter brothers and build new bonds of brotherhood and friendship with nearly 800 undergraduates, alumni and Friends of Beta.

Fraternity Business Join the undergraduate delegates and General Fraternity leadership in establishing and executing Beta’s vision, mission and strategic objectives.

Education Participate in high-quality educational sessions specifically designed for undergraduates (The Peter F. Greiner Leadership College) and alumni, sweethearts and guests (Convention Symposium and Cornerstone Housing Summit).

Inspiration “The first mark of a Beta will be his Beta spirit.” — Willis O. Robb, Ohio Wesleyan 1879.

Rekindle your Beta Spirit and passion for the future of our Great and Good Fraternity.

Celebration Be a part of recognizing Beta Greats, congratulating award-winning chapters and individuals, and celebrating Beta’s progress and success.

Registration opens February 1, 2013

For more details, contact Convention Coordinator Megan Vadnais megan.vadnais@betathetapi.org or 800.800.BETA.

Photos Courtesy of Visit Charlotte.

Chapter Reports Have you been keeping up with the latest happenings of Beta chapters and colonies across North America? Read on to get the scoop about their recent achievements — as reported by undergraduate chapter officers — as well as unique “Campus Life” stories featuring chapter highlights and recent chapter installations. Finally, in alignment with this issue’s theme of “The Beta House,” learn how seven chapters are proving how Beta housing is still relevant.

Alabama (ΔΘ) Tuscaloosa, Ala. Paul McKelvey ’14, pauldmckelvey@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The chapter brothers of Delta Theta have volunteered more than 500 community service hours to the SGA Sunday Service Initiative which assists with recovery and reconstruction efforts from the Tuscaloosa tornado disaster in April 2011. Delta Theta has also pledged 42 outstanding new members for the fall semester and will induct roll number 1,000 this fall.

Arizona (ΔΒ) Tuscon, Ariz.

Alex Bergdahl ’13, abergdah@email.arizona.edu WHAT’S UP: This year we worked extensively to regain a favorable status after going through chapter reorganization. We added 28 pledges in the spring 2012 semester and 41 in the fall 2012 semester.

We have also continually improved our house GPA. As far as our house, we have repaved the entire parking lot and installed a full basketball court. The house is also undergoing minor adjustments inside as well.

Auburn (ΔΖ) Auburn, Ala. Lucas Asbury ’13, LOA0002@auburn.edu WHAT’S UP: The men of Delta Zeta had an impressive academic semester as we finished fifth out of 29 fraternities in grades. Ten of our brothers achieved a 4.0 GPA. This summer, we made $250,000 worth of renovations to our house. We added a laundry room, put in a concrete kitchen floor, repainted all of the walls, redid the downstairs ceilings, and put spotlights on our volleyball court. With these new additions, our house is better than ever.

Bethany (Ψ) Bethany, W. Va. Tyler Buchanan ’13, tbuchanan@bethanywv.edu WHAT’S UP: The Psi Chapter initiated 10 new members in the spring and is preparing to initiate 3 this fall. The chapter won the Augusta Levy Charity Kickball Tournament for the fifth consecutive year. The Psi House Corporation has been kind enough to provide our chapter house with new windows, a basketball court and new locks on all of the doors.

British Columbia (ΓΟ) Vancouver, B.C. Calvin Kwong ’13, calvin.ch.kwong@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This semester we welcomed 28 new pledges into the Gamma Omicron Chapter. They are an excellent group of men and we are lucky to have them. The pledge class carries a broad range of strengths, varying from varsity athletes to excelling scholars. This semester, we have continued to dominate in the realm of athletics, coming in first overall at our campus-wide long boat competition. So far, we have had a strong start to the year, and we expect to carry this momentum into next semester.

Cal Poly (ΕΔ) San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Andrew Chung ’14, awchung@calpoly.edu WHAT’S UP: For the past two quarters, our chapter has been among the top five fraternities on campus for highest GPA. We also volunteered with Surf Rider to keep local beaches clean. Our chapter won Chi Omega’s beach volleyball tournament, which raised money for the Make-AWish Foundation. Through many brotherhood activities, bonds between brothers have strengthened, and we have developed an excellent understanding of the Fraternity’s five core values.

California, Berkeley (Ω) Berkeley, Calif.

Tommy Gordon ’14, jtgordon@berkeley.edu WHAT’S UP: With the help of a dedicated group of advisors, the Omega Chapter has worked hard to improve aspects of our chapter operations. Active participation and commitment to Beta has been key to Omega’s recent successes, and chapter members are excited for the future. The sense of brotherhood in the chapter is strong. On any given weeknight, you will likely find chapter members eating dinner and catching up in our dining room or watching television together in our living room area.

California, Irvine (ΔΣ) Irvine, Calif.

Marty Ignacio ’13, mignacio@uci.edu WHAT’S UP: This year, we have accomplished a lot in just a short amount of time. Starting with only 23 men coming into fall quarter, we successfully added 13 new members. In addition, we have established a new philanthropy called Beta Bowl, where we raise funds for the Special Olympics. Our gentlemen are planning to take part in the Heart Walk of Orange County to benefit the American Heart Association. The future of the Delta Sigma Chapter is looking brighter each year.

California, Los Angeles (ΓΝ) Los Angeles, Calif.

Cody Kosycarz ’12, cody.kosycarz@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Nu Chapter has been going strong this year by doing various house renovations with our house corporation, as well as working closely with advisors to consistently better the chapter. We’ve implemented out first annual philanthropy on campus, worked with City Hall and the other two LA chapters to organize new City Hall landscaping, created a chapter website and grew the chapter to more than 100 brothers.

California, Santa Barbara (ΕΠ) Santa Barbara, Calif.

Gaelan Koppel ’14, g.kerrkoppel@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This fall, the Epsilon Pi Chapter had an incredibly successful rush and added 40 outstanding men to the chapter. This new pledge class includes Division 1 athletes, valedictorians and non-profit organization founders. We are very excited to offer these men a calendar full of brotherhood, ritual and social events. The men of Epsilon Pi pride themselves on their continued success in the UCSB Greek community. We also improved our house replacing our entire upstairs flooring and refurbishing our volleyball pit.

Carleton (ΕΥ) Ottawa, Ont. Ryan Billingham ’15, billingham.ryan@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: With a pledge class of five, Epsilon Upsilon is on a path to continue growing throughout the next years into a stronger chapter. We recently acquired a house where four of our brothers live, along with one recent alumnus. In sports, our hockey team is undefeated in the Greek Hockey League. Our chapter has recently revamped our academic assistance plan in order to pursue our commitment to the cultivation of the intellect.

Carnegie Mellon (ΓΙ) Pittsburgh, Pa. Bryan Connelly ’13, bryancconnelly@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This fall, Gamma Iota added another great class of 22 young men. The chapter has a number of members who are leaders on the varsity football team. In addition to captains Nicholas Karabin ’13 and Patrick Blanks ’13, Rob Kalkstein ’14, has had a breakout year leading all NCAA quarterbacks in passing efficiency. The chapter started a relationship with the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, which works to improve areas within the city.

www.betathetapi.org

37

Chapter Reports

Case Western Reserve (ΛΚ–Β) Cleveland, Ohio Rob Ahlman’14, rma66@case.edu WHAT’S UP: The chapter finished the spring semester strong academically with an impressive 3.59 GPA. Moving into the summer, many brothers had the opportunity to experience Beta’s world-class leadership programs at Wooden and Leadership College at convention. This fall, we held our second annual Alumni Hall of Fame where we recognized Jay Schackel and Frank Linsalata for their outstanding contributions to this fraternity.

Central Florida (ΖΨ) Orlando, Fla. TJ Brown ’13,TMBJ@knights.ucf.edu WHAT’S UP: The Zeta Psi Chapter has focused heavily on community involvement so far this semester. We’ve participated in local park clean-up projects, Feeding Children Everywhere and The Mustard Seed of Central Florida. Some brothers even went to New Orleans to construct homes for poverty-stricken families.

Central Michigan (ΕΓ) Mount Pleasant, Mich.

Kevin White ’13, White2kn@cmich.edu WHAT’S UP: After 25 years of having aspirations of winning a Knox Award, our chapter gladly accomplished the feat at the 173rd General Convention. Our chapter continues to focus on our philanthropy efforts. We will be adopting two families for Christmas this year through the United Way and plan to create a conjoined philanthropy with Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Lastly, our chapter was ranked second out of all fraternties in chapter GPA while being the largest fraternity on campus.

Centre (Ε) Danville, Ky. Tony Huffman ’14, anthony.huffman@centre.edu WHAT’S UP: In all, the Epsilon Colony has made some tremendous gains this semester. We have formed a strong partnership with our brothers at the University of Kentucky in order to accomplish our recruitment goals. Additionally, we have developed closer ties with our alumni who have given generously of their time and energy to help us. Finally, nearly all the members of our colony volunteered in some capacity for the Vice Presidential Debate which Centre hosted on October 11.

Chapman (Colony) Orange, Calif.

Myke Thompson ’13, communications@chapmanbeta.com WHAT’S UP: Our brothers were exceptional in academic performance last semester with the fourth highest fraternity GPA. We began our colonization with excellence and passion for service to the university and local community and it has continued into this semester. This year, we placed first in one of Chapman’s largest philanthropic events, Gamma Phi Beta’s Airbands. In addition, we raised enough money for Kappa Alpha Theta’s KatWalk to earn third place.

Cincinnati (ΒΝ) Cincinnati, Ohio Mike Rodmaker ’13, mrodmaker@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The chapter recruited its largest class in recent history, adding 22 men with a 3.5 GPA. This summer we won our first Knox Award in seven years. Beta Nu also hosted the first ever pledge class retreat to Red River Gorge, Ky., with the active chapter, took second place in the homecoming float competition and hosted UC Men’s Basketball Head Coach Mick Cronin, to speak at the house.

Clemson (ΔΝ) Clemson, S.C. Nick White ’14, nrwhite@clemson.edu WHAT’S UP: The Delta Nu Chapter recruited a pledge class of 17 men this past semester. We have four men serving on undergraduate student senate. Over the summer, we worked with our alumni to form a house corporation. We’ve had other successful events including a parents’ reception, paintball brotherhood event and Low Country Classic philanthropy with Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, which raised $5,000 for the Ronald McDonald House.

38

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Colgate (ΒΘ) Hamilton, N.Y. Michael Zahka’13, mzahka@colgate.edu WHAT’S UP: We are proud to have new members that participate in activities across campus, such as the Colgate Thirteen and Student Government Association. Every day, we strive to integrate further into the Colgate campus and share our values and history. The Beta Theta Chapter seeks to improve relations with the Village of Hamilton through our financial support of the Madison County Day Camp, as well as having fun events, like trick-or-treating on Broad Street for the children in our community.

Colorado Mines (ΒΦ) Golden, Colo.

Kevin Tornes ’14, ktornes@mines.edu WHAT’S UP: The chapter is very proud of the fact that we recruited an outstanding pledge class of 35 members.

This is a new record for the house, and we are very pleased with the retention rate of the new class. These young men are making strides to become the next generation of great Beta leaders within our chapter. Our chapter house was completed in 2009, and it is our greatest initial recruitment tool during rush week.

Columbia (ΑΑ) New York, N.Y. Ben Ramalanjaona ’13, bjr2121@columbia.edu WHAT’S UP: Alpha Alpha held a campus-wide supplies drive for the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Donations were delivered to Far Rockaway, the Bowery Mission, and I.S. 88, a public school turned into a shelter. The chapter house’s lobby was used to collect goods, with brothers keeping watch until midnight every night. The drive was officially endorsed by Columbia, and received attention from local media, the Columbia Spectator and People Magazine.

Connecticut (ΖΧ) Storrs - Mansfield, Conn.

Matthew Dempsey ’13, mja.dempsey@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: In the past year, our chapter has had the highest GPA the fraternity has ever seen at a 3.428, instituted a requirement to pass a ritual competency assessment to serve on the Executive Committee, has had the largest new member class in our history, created the Zeta Chi Leadership Fund to help brothers attend programs like the Wooden Institute and started a new philanthropy, aptly named the Beta Theta Pi Eating Contest.

Cornell (ΒΔ) Ithaca, N.Y. Andrew Broenen ’13, apb85@cornell.edu WHAT’S UP: We recruited 10 men, our largest fall pledge class in recent history. With an average GPA of 3.56, our new members range from computer science to biology, have interned at companies like Facebook and Google and come from all over the globe including South Korea, Hawaii and Ethiopia. Close to 100 years old, our house has stood the test of time. This summer, we plan on installing an extensive fire sprinkler system which will cover all individual rooms and common areas.

Creighton (Colony) Omaha, Nebr.

Westin Miller ’13, craigmiller@creighton.edu WHAT’S UP: In its first full year on campus, the Creighton colony stood at the top of the pack in recruitment numbers (a 78% bid acceptance rate), held the first annual Beta Theta Pi Puppy Sit, which was one of the most well-attended student organization events of the semester, and is continuing to sharpen its member education program and constitution with new member input. The brothers at Creighton are making their presence known, and we are excited to be a part of Beta Theta Pi.

Dayton (ΗΔ) Dayton, Ohio Mark Hawk ’14, mark.hawk24@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Our chapter is continuing to live out our commitment to the community by participating in service activities with the five Dayton public schools by reading with students, being mentors, coaching the students in soccer games and much more. At the beginning of the year, we received a dish washer from the university which has been a significant factor in improving living conditions within the house.

Chapter Reports

Eastern Washington (ΕΩ) Cheney, Wash.

Denison (ΑΗ) Granville, Ohio Cullen Marshall ’13, marsha_c1@denison.edu WHAT’S UP: The fall semester is our informal recruitment period.

Over the past several years, the average pledge class size for an informal season has been small (two to three members). However, this semester we welcomed in six new pledges! This success can be attributed to hard work in recruitment efforts from last spring and this fall, and we are very excited to welcome six noble men into our fold.

Alex Warrick ’14, Awarrick96@aol.com WHAT’S UP: In this last academic school year, the Epsilon Omega Chapter has succeeded both academically and interfraternally. At last year’s Keystone we won the Leadership Development Award. On campus we were awarded Eastern Washington’s Academic Excellence Award for having the best grades among fraternities. We also won EWU’s Greek Week for the first time in almost a decade.

Denver (ΑΖ) Denver, Colo.

Johno Oberly ’13, johno.oberly@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Over the past academic year, the Alpha Zeta Colony has posted the highest grades on campus for two out of three quarters. Furthermore, we have made great strides in changing the approach to philanthropy on the DU campus. With an emphasis on hands-on service and transparent fundraising efforts, we are reconnecting DU Greek Life with the organizations they claim to support.

Emory (ΓΥ) Atlanta, Ga. Ari Buchman ’13, abuchma@emory.edu WHAT’S UP: So far this semester, our focus has been on improving our chapter house. Most of the work is still being done, but we are very excited to take advantage of the refreshed house. Currently we are in the process of building a kitchen, which our brothers are sure to use. In order to foster brotherhood, we have added a pool table and a television in the common room in order to encourage brothers to spend more time together.

DePauw (Δ) Greencastle, Ind.

Florida (ΓΞ) Gainesville, Fla.

Robby Spichiger ’13, robertspichiger_2013@depauw.edu WHAT’S UP: The Delta Chapter is off to a fast start this semester! We remain second in grades among major fraternities, are leading intramurals and executed a model initiation with a strong alumni presence. From raising suicide prevention awareness to collecting funds for cancer research, philanthropy has become a renewed focus. The implementation of consistent ritual reviews has helped strengthen our brotherhood.

Ethan McMahon ’13, emcmahon09@ufl.edu WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Xi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi added 41 new members to the fold this fall semester. We are now one of the largest chapters in the entire Fraternity and couldn’t be prouder. We are also in first place in the overall fraternity intramural league. Through constant studying and commitment to cultivating our intellect, our chapter GPA remains above the All-Fraternity, All-Men’s and All-Campus average.

East Carolina (ΕΑ) Greenville, N.C. Tejas Nandurkar ’13, nandurkart09@students.ecu.edu WHAT’S UP: Our biggest achievement this year was how we were able to set out on the correct path to self govern. Although we are not perfect, we have grown much closer as a brotherhood which has really helped us become more independent in our governing. I have no doubt that this is the foundation that will lead to much anticipated awards at the end of year.

Florida International (ΗΓ) Miami, Fla. Roly Gutierrez ’13, mail4roly@yahoo.com WHAT’S UP: I believe the Eta Gamma Chapter has reached its full social potential on our campus this past year. As far as involvement and public relations, we have redefined the image of Beta within our Greek community. I consider this our greatest achievement because we were able to prosper socially while keeping academics and selfdevelopment our priority.

Eastern Kentucky (ΔΞ) Richmond, Ky. Ryan Burton ’13, jeffrey_burton60@mymail.eku.edu WHAT’S UP: This past year, the Delta Xi Chapter has worked hard on getting our grades to a higher standard. We have also worked toward achieving 100% participation in a non-Greek organization on campus, as well as participating in more community service projects than we have done in previous years. We have created a brand new pledge education program that is geared toward values-based learning.

Furman (ΖΛ) Greenville, S. Car. Hunter Ousterhout ’13, hunter.ousterhout@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The brothers of Zeta Lambda have been hard at work this semester. Following the General Convention, where we received our charter, the brothers have formed a House Finding Committee, charged with locating a home for our chapter, as well as designing a house corporation. Furthermore, Zeta Lambda has been actively raising money through various activities, such as working at a carnival for Bi Lo Family Day. The money raised will be used for maintenance of the chapter’s property.

UCLA Chapter House

Central Michigan Chapter House

“The Gamma Nu chapter house has had some recent renovations in respect to our library, chapter room and tech room, and have each been upgraded with new lights, chairs, couches and tables. The chapter has also installed a 120” projector and screen in our living room to be used for presentations, meetings, and general use by the brothers. Our house corporation has helped us with the installation of high-tech cameras on the entrances/exits and in the hallways.”

“Epsilon Gamma has recently redone our fireside room with completely new furniture and rugs. We have coined the term of our newly furnished room the ‘old money room’ because of the distinct new change. Our chapter has also made strides in redoing our basement in hopes of creating a new chapter and study room. We plan to have our basement completed in the next three years.”

www.betathetapi.org

39

Chapter Reports

George Washington (ΖΝ) Washington, D.C. Colin O’Brien ’14, cobrien@gwmail.gwu.edu WHAT’S UP: So far this year, the brothers of the Zeta Nu Chapter have re-dedicated ourselves to the value of trust.

Many of our activities from ritual reviews, to chapter, to intramural games, have been themed around improving trust at all levels of the chapter. As far as our chapter house is concerned, we recently acquired a pool table and repainted most of the rooms. We are excited about how this semester has gone and are looking to finish strong.

Connor Gifford ’14, connor-gifford@uiowa.edu WHAT’S UP: We recruited and inducted 21 new pledges and have revamped the entire pledge education program, scholarship program, and have incorporated an alumni-undergraduate mentorship program, which has brought a lot of alumni in to help with our chapter.

We replaced a window in the Great Hall to stop losing heat, we repainted our deck, bought a new door with a stained glass window of the crest, and updated our entertainment system.

Georgia (ΕΕ) Athens, Ga. Zack Thompson ’13, zackthompson14@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Our chapter is enjoying more significant improvements to our house this school year with a new lawn, further updated interior, and a brand new full-service meal plan, all drastically improving our daily brotherhood and pride in our facilities. We’ve continued our commitment to academics, community service, and self-improvement, and are proud of our members involved with and leading more than 30 different campus organizations and clubs.

Iowa State (ΤΣ) Ames, Iowa Josiah Ruhland ’15, Jruhland@iastate.edu WHAT’S UP: The fall semester of 2012 has been our first rechartered semester as the Tau Sigma Chapter. Many good things have been happening, such as a pledge class of 18 quality men, bringing back our old philanthropy Beta Burgers and Bands, and kicking off our capital campaign with the largest alumni event in six years.

We are not satisfied yet though as everyone here has the drive and passion to keep improving.

Hanover (Ι) Hanover, Ind. Devon Kondaki ’14, kondakid14@hanover.edu WHAT’S UP: The Iota Chapter of Beta Theta Pi has made significant strides in order to grow the colony. During homecoming, we had alumni come back and ignite excitment in potential recruits.

We even had the president of Hanover come by to praise Beta. We have just moved back into the chapter house and begun to renovate the kitchen. We also have begun clearing out the basement in order to have a place to hold meetings and events.

John Carroll (ΗΕ) University Heights, Ohio John Jackson ’13, jjackson13@jcu.edu WHAT’S UP: Eta Epsilon recruited our largest pledge class in our history with 16 quality men this fall. We also held a “five years on campus” celebration. Family, alumni and Friends of Beta all enjoyed an evening together looking back on the success of the chapter in the last five years at John Carroll. The chapter is working with our local philanthropy, Milestones Autism Organization, for their 10-year anniversary gala. It has been a very positive semester for the chapter.

Idaho (ΓΓ) Moscow, Idaho Nick Tunison ’13, tuni6887@vandals.uidaho.edu WHAT’S UP: The chapter had a successful rush, pledging 24 great young men. The chapter is excited for its upcoming philanthropy, a week long competition spreading awareness and supporting breast cancer research. Events include Wear Pink Day, swing dancing at the chapter house and a powder puff football tournament. With the largest membership on campus, members hope to work towards their third straight Knox and Sisson Awards at the 174th General Convention.

Indiana (Π) Bloomington, Ind. Benjamin Akinbola ’14, bakinbol@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This year, we want to emphasize our commitment to the community, locally and beyond. To do so, we started sponsoring one of the town’s youth soccer teams, and we plan to attend some of their final games as a chapter. In addition, in order to promote a culture of responsible, informed voters, we watched the Presidential debates as a chapter and discussed political policy afterward. Lastly, we are in the process of organizing a new Christmas philanthropy for local families.

Iowa (ΑΒ) Iowa City, Iowa

Johns Hopkins (ΑΧ) Baltimore, Md. Michael Sondag ’13, msondag1@jhu.edu WHAT’S UP: After winning the chapter’s first Knox Award at the 173rd General Convention, the Alpha Chi Chapter has pushed forward with its development and programming.

The chapter has created an addition to JHU’s Greek Week, now sponsoring a Cornhole Tournament to fundraise for the Wounded Warrior Project. Our brothers look forward to a successful event after the diligent planning of brother Matt Jorgensen ’14, and his committee.

Kansas (ΑΝ) Lawrence, Kan. Cole McGregor ’14, mcgregorcole@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Nu Chapter continued its dedication to the cultivation of the intellect with academic excellence last spring with a house-wide GPA of 3.46. The chapter was also awarded the KU Greek Awards Chapter of the Year honor. Our annual philanthropy, Harvest Week, raised more than $5,000 for the Lawrence-area Habitat for Humanity. It has been a great semester so far and the chapter is excited for what lies ahead for the rest of the year.

Iowa State Chapter Installation On Friday, November 2, 2012, the men, alumni and guests of the Tau Sigma Chapter gathered to celebrate the rechartering of the chapter at Iowa State University.

The celebration included a banquet dinner and program held at the new Iowa State Alumni Center. The keynote address was delivered

by Administrative Secretary Jud Horras, Iowa State ’97. Attendees listened to a special address by Jeffery Johnson, President & CEO/Publisher of the Iowa State Alumni Association. Dan Winters, Iowa State ’03, who is the lead anchorman at WHO-TV 13 in Des Moines, Iowa, served as master of ceremonies.

Some special recognitions were given during the event. Connie Moore, better known as “Mom Connie,” was recognized for being awarded the Fraternity’s House Director of the Year at the 173rd General Convention. The inaugural class of the Tau Sigma Hall of Excellence was announced. The recipients were: John Wiegman ’61, Robert “Bob” Stafford ’46, Michael Dubes ’66, Judson Horras ’97, and Larry Prohaska ’89.

40

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Chapter Reports

Kansas State (ΓΕ) Manhattan, Kan. Zack Reed ’14, reezac@ksu.edu WHAT’S UP: We were happy to receive both the Francis H. Sisson and the John Reilly Knox Award this summer at the 173rd General Convention. We also won our third flag football championship, which puts us well on our way to our ninth overall intramural championship. As far as our house is concerned, we are currently working on installing exterior cameras and a thumb-scanning entry door access system.

Knox (Ξ) Galesburg, Ill. Quentin Gittemeier ’13, qgitteme@knox.edu WHAT’S UP: Our chapter is currently in the process of doing a philanthropy, Soles for Souls. We have also redone our election process to be more efficient for conventions. We are currently under renovations that should take about three years to finish. This year, we had sprinklers and new alarms installed. In the following years, the rest of the house will be going through renovations to give it further improvements.

Kentucky (ΕΟ) Lexington, Ky. Nick Camic ’13, nicholas.camic@gmail.com WHAT’S UP:The Epsilon Omicron Colony has continued to push forward in our pursuit of a charter. We were able to recruit a pledge class of 26 men, bolstering our number of affiliated men to 89, which is well above the average chapter size on campus. We also recently held our first large philanthropic event, “Bring it On”, raising close to $8,000 for organizations fighting to prevent violence against women. An official house corporation is also being formed in anticipation of our involvement in UK’s new Greek Park.

Lawrence (ΓΠ) Appleton, Wis. Tony Darling ’13, darlinga@lawrence.edu WHAT’S UP: This semester, we changed our Kai Committee to focus more on promoting brotherhood instead of simply punitive measures. In addition, we now require all non-Executive Board officers to report on what they have been doing twice per term in order to keep them accountable. We have also increased our involvement in philanthropy. The entire chapter helped a local sustainable garden build several greenhouses last month.

Kenyon (ΒΑ) Gambier, Ohio Tim Benner ’13, bennert@kenyon.edu WHAT’S UP: This semester, our chapter went through the process of awarding the Men of Principle Scholarship to a freshman for the first time in five years. We had 12 applicants, and after conducting interviews with each of them, we awarded the scholarship to a very deserving freshman. In our opinion, this scholarship has been a very useful tool in reaching out to freshmen before they begin rush in the spring.

Kettering A (ΔΗ) Flint, Mich.

Louisville (ΔΠ) Louisville, Ky. Joshua Baechlr ’14, jtbaec01@louisville.edu WHAT’S UP: We inducted four brothers into Order of Omega, which is the highest membership out of all Greek organizations.

We also celebrated our fourth annual golf outing and our fourth annual Karaoke for a Cure where the proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. We raised $2,500 before the event started and are still waiting to see how much we raised in total. Thanks to a generous gift from our alumni, we just added a 46 inch television to the house.

Loyola Marymount (ΗΑ) Los Angeles, Calif.

Ray Hyder ’15, hyde3304@kettering.edu WHAT’S UP: We have remained top in grades on campus and last term had a recruitment push that allowed us to recruit 14 brothers, matching our best recruitment season in a number of years. As the year goes on, we will strive to keep our grades high and focus on adding even more members to our chapter.

Matt Hanna ’13, mhanna5@lion.lmu.edu WHAT’S UP: The Eta Alpha Chapter was recently put on warning status this semester. As soon as it happened, our primary goal was to turn our efforts to returning to good standing. Through the process, we have educated members through open talks, presentations and workshops. I feel a closer sense of brotherhood, and members understand a little more what it means to be a Beta and a man of principle.

Kettering B (ΔΗ) Flint, Mich.

Jorge Horcasitas ’13, jorhorc@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: We had our most successful and profound brotherhood retreat at an alumnus’ ranch. As a result, our brothers have grown closer to each other in areas of trust, comfort and respect. We shared many stories from our personal lives with each other and took part in various team-building activities as well. I am proud that we recognize that the scope of brotherhood is larger than just hanging out.

Maine (ΒΗ) Orono, Maine Christian Dionne ’13, dionnecj@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Beta Eta Chapter hosted a successful homecoming this year. More than 105 Beta alumni and guests came back to reunite with the chapter — the most in recent history. The chapter also re-introduced the Fraternal Milestone ceremonies to honor our beloved alumni.

British Columbia Adds 32

Columbia Aids Sandy Relief

Beta Dad Sponsors Retreat

One of the Fraternity’s shining stars of the northwest, the Gamma Omicron Chapter at the University of British Columbia strengthened its brotherhood with a solid fall rush. What started as 59 men has grown to 91, as the chapter brought in a pledge class of 32. Always one of the Fraternity’s most loyal chapters, they now have a collective GPA of 3.11, and are well on their way to a successful semester.

As soon as the storm calmed, our Alpha Alpha Chapter in NYC jumped into action to help those in need. Thanks to President Ben Ramalanjaona ’13, his Beta brothers and CU’s EMS, they secured an extra ambulance and filled it to the brim with water and food to help those in West Harlem, the Bowery Mission in Chinatown and Rockaway Beach.

Founding President and roll number one Gabriel Shapanka, Florida International ’07, was killed in a tragic accident in Africa.

To keep his son’s passion for Beta going, Glenn Shapanka (also initiated onto the chapter’s roll as 101) sponsors an annual brotherhood retreat for his son’s chapter brothers. This year, the retreat was held at the Miami Everglades Camp and even had the entire pledge class in attendance. www.betathetapi.org

41

Chapter Reports

Maryland (ΔΩ) College Park, Md. Alex Bleiweis ’13, ableiweis@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Starting the year off with a renewed charter, Delta Omega has hit the ground running. Using a 100% alcohol-free recruitment program, we added nine men to the chapter. Beta has the top fraternity GPA on campus and serves as a model for other chapters’ academic programs. Finally, Beta has advanced athletically, solidifying our reputation as one of the top soccer teams on campus.

Miami (Α) Oxford, Ohio Ben Parks ’13, parksbj2@muohio.edu WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Chapter has been working to realign its culture with the strategic direction of Beta Theta Pi. It recently adopted an updated set of membership expectations, with notable changes to the GPA standards of the chapter. Additionally, the chapter is working hard to capitalize on a large number of recruits on campus this year through strong recruitment efforts and its Men of Principle Scholarship worth up to $1,000 for the top candidate.

Miami (Fla.) (ΗΒ) Coral Gables, Fla. Jonathan Fernandez ’14, j.fernandez48@umiami.edu WHAT’S UP: This academic year, the men of our chapter have put much of our focus on academics. Our scholarship chairman has pushed for us to remain in the top three in GPA among fraternities on campus, like we finished last spring. We are putting more emphasis on the use of study rooms, suite quiet hours and brother-to-brother tutoring. So far, it has worked well and we are hoping for a strong end to the semester.

Michigan (Λ) Ann Arbor, Mich.

Dustyn Wright ’13, dustynw@umich.edu WHAT’S UP: After winning Fraternity of the Year at the Michigan Difference Leadership Awards, Lambda brought home awards for membership development, pledge education, and recruitment from Michigan’s Greek Awards, as well as the Charles Henry Hardin Leadership Development and Pledge Education awards from General Convention this summer. These awards are physical representations of the strengthening bond and progressive movement of a brotherhood the men of Lambda are proud to be a part of.

Michigan State (ΓΨ) East Lansing, Mich.

Jeffrey Boore ’13, boorejef@msu.edu WHAT’S UP: We have made significant strides in setting the tradition for Gamma Psi going forward. We have done well in recruitment, increasing the chapter size by a third, and excelled academically, ranking second of all fraternities. The colony has also worked hard in creating our constitution, with a portion already voted into place, as well as choosing our philanthropy, a local charity that supports the Lansing community. Gamma Psi is well on its way to becoming a leader on campus.

Minnesota (ΒΠ) Minneapolis, Minn.

Matthew Niezgoda ’13, betapi1786@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Beta Pi Chapter has had a very active fall semester. The second weekend of the semester we hosted a “Back to Beta” philanthropy concert featuring local bands to raise money for the Mental Health Association of Minnesota. We are continuing to volunteer at an after school program at a local elementary school. We are happy to report that we recruited an outstading fall pledge class of 16 men.

Mississippi (ΒΒ) Oxford, Miss.

Austin Jones ’14, cajones7@go.olemiss.edu WHAT’S UP: In the past year, the Beta Beta Chapter has aimed for academic success. During the spring semester, the chapter revamped our Academic Advancement Program, and saw our chapter GPA increase by almost half of a grade point in one semester. The chapter house has seen some improvements as well. Earlier this semester, our house restrooms were renovated. The house also installed two new washers and dryers.

Missouri (ΖΦ) Columbia, Mo. Christopher Cary ’13, cbcp82@mail.missouri.edu WHAT’S UP: The men of our chapter continue to focus on our academics. Once again, the Zeta Phi Chapter achieved the highest GPA of any fraternity on campus. With a 3.28 overall GPA, the chapter has made it 19 of 22 semesters at the top of the list. With continued excellence in academics, as well as our brand new chapter house, Zeta Phi is stronger than it has ever been!

Missouri-Kansas City (ΕΛ) Kansas City, Mo. Andy Kraft ’13, ajkwb8@mail.umkc.edu WHAT’S UP: The Epsilon Lambda Chapter had the highest GPA of all Greek organizations at UMKC for spring 2012, with a 3.488. Also, the Epsilon Lambda Chapter won its fifth John Reily Knox Award and 18th Sisson Award. The Epsilon Lambda Chapter has a pledge class of 18 men right now, and we look forward to their initiation in the spring.

Nebraska (ΑΤ) Lincoln, Neb. Michael Mumaugh ’13, president@beta.unl.edu WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Tau Chapter has deepened its relationship with a local after school program called Lighthouse. With the help of alumni, we were able to bring 27 Lighthouse children and family members to a Nebraska football game! The families and Betas had a great time watching the game together in Memorial Stadium. For many of these children, it was the first Nebraska football game they ever attended. The chapter is glad it was able to use its resources to benefit children.

Maryland Chapter Installation On October 21, 2012, members, alumni and guests of the Delta Omega Chapter joined together in College Park, Md., to celebrate the rechartering of the chapter. Calling the celebration “Beta Day,” the Installation Ceremony was held at the Adele H. Stamp Student Union. General Secretary David Schmidt, South Florida ’92, was the presiding officer (left, with chapter members).

After the men of Delta Omega received their charter, everyone met at the Hilton Garden Inn of Washington for a luncheon. Sixty-five people were in attendance, including chapter members, alumni, parents and Beta Sweethearts. Speakers at the luncheon included Chapter President Alex Bleiweis ’12, former District Chief Casey Gomes, Maryland ’02, and David Schmidt.

During the luncheon, the chapter presented the inaugural Stephanie Iris Prezant Award. The award is in memory of the sister of Delta Omega brother Jonathan Prezant ’13, and honors a chapter member who has exemplified excellence in brotherhood.

Scott Shuffield ’12, was honored as the award’s first recipient.

42

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Chapter Reports

North Carolina (Η) Chapel Hill, N.C. Patrick Snyder ’13, pdsnyder@live.unc.edu WHAT’S UP: This fall, the Eta Chapter pledged and initiated 20 freshmen, bringing our total active brotherhood to 84 — the largest our chapter has ever been. We are still in the process of constructing a backyard sports complex. We expect the project will be completed over winter break. Fundraising efforts are currently in progress to renovate and expand our dining area.

North Dakota (ΓΚ) Grand Forks, N.D. Dan Marnich ’13, daniel.marnich@und.edu WHAT’S UP: Through the hard work of our actives and alumni, we were able to purchase our chapter house and begin renovations on improving its conditions. We also have achieved a major accomplishment this year, as we signed 19 pledges for the fall semester. This is the biggest pledge class we have had in the last five years. I am proud of my fellow Betas in our efforts in building a bridge for those who follow after us.

Northeastern (HZ) Boston, Mass.

Tim Stuer ’13, timothy.stuer@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This summer was incredibly eventful for us. At the 173rd General Convention in Chicago, we were given our charter and are now an official chapter of Beta Theta Pi and couldn’t be more excited. Since then, we have had a great start to this academic year. We have added 12 new members to our chapter and we look forward to continuing to improve ourselves.

Northwestern (Ρ) Evanston, Ill. Sean Kelton ’14, seankelton2015@u.northwestern.edu WHAT’S UP: Our chapter is just entering recruiting season, so we are looking forward to taking in a large, healthy pledge class of highly esteemed individuals. We also have an upcoming philanthropy event in conjunction with the Delta Delta Delta Sorority in order to benefit the American Cancer Society. Our house is always continuing to work to improve the appearance of our esteemed chapter house. We have recently just refinished and refurbished our conference room.

Nova Southeastern (ΖΜ) Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Nile Dresser ’14, nd373@nova.edu WHAT’S UP: This year the chapter extended 12 bids, as well as strengthened our bond with local alumni. We are planning on having a very successful Beta Sweetheart event to raise funds for Smile Train, an organization that helps underprivileged children with cleft lip and palates afford surgery. The chapter has also adopted one of our favorite biology professor’s local philanthropy, Boxer Friends, which helps care for dogs of the boxer breed in the southern Florida area.

Oklahoma (ΓΦ) Norman, Okla.

Zach Lanier ’13, zlanier@ou.edu WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Phi Chapter ranked first in grades among IFC Chapters at the University of Oklahoma, with a 3.29 GPA. This was the highest GPA ever achieved by a fraternity at Oklahoma and it is also Gamma Phi’s 61st time to achieve first in grades since 1948. In addition to performing well in academics, the chapter successfully recruited 61 men to pledge the fraternity.

Oklahoma State (ΓΛ) Stillwater, Okla.

Chase Colvin ’14, chase.colvin@okstate.edu WHAT’S UP: Gamma Lambda continues to compete and excel on campus and within the Greek community. This past year, Beta won first place in Freshmen Follies, second place in Varsity Revue, and first place in Spring Sing. Gamma Lambda also won the Men’s and Co-Rec Intramural championships this past year. Continuing to raise the bar, the Gamma Lambda chapter seeks not only wisdom, but also excellence on campus.

Oregon (ΒΡ) Eugene, Ore. Toby Fish ’14,Toby.s.fish@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: We here at the Beta Rho Chapter are proud to report a 25-man pledge class for the fall semester. We are sure that they will help contribute to the excellent and proud legacy that we have here at the University of Oregon. Our chapter house holds 43 active members and has a beautiful front lawn. With easily the largest fraternal property at the University of Oregon, we take great pride in its presence.

Pacific (Colony) Stockton, Calif.

Jeffery Betz ’13, JefferyBetz@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This semester our colony began laying the foundation for years to come. We passed our constitution and bylaws, as well as implemented a 365-recruitment plan. In terms of service and philanthropy, we are well on our way to meeting, and surpassing, a 20-hour per brother, per semester goal that we set at the beginning of the year. One of our larger accomplishments was competing, and placing first, in our campus’ Greek Olympics to benefit the LiveStrong Foundation.

Penn State (ΑΥ) State College, Pa. Dalton Anderson ’13, daa5076@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: After receiving our charter this summer at the 173rd General Convention, the Alpha Upsilon brothers have had a busy semester. We have been involved with football tailgates, homecoming competitions, Greek Sing, and raising money for THON, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy. Our chapter house is still in excellent condition. We think we have the best living quarters on campus and take great pride in maintaining it.

Georgia Chapter House

Idaho Chapter House

“This summer, our house corporation continued to work with us to make drastic improvements to our chapter house with a new lawn and continued interior improvements. Our new lawn won the UGA IFC Yard of the Month Award in July. We’ve been lucky to watch our brotherhood and alumni grow increasingly prideful of our chapter’s facilities during the past two years with these updates and renovations.”

“The first phase of a renovation campaign took place this summer. The outside of the chapter house was completely redone, including the front steps and back porch, so the house is up to ADA standards and handicap accessible. The 85-year-old foundation of the house was repaired, ensuring that the chapter house will be standing in another 85 years. The full remodel is scheduled to finish in the summer of 2014, just in time for the 100-year anniversary of the Gamma Gamma Chapter.” www.betathetapi.org

43

Chapter Reports

Pennsylvania (Φ) Philadelphia, Pa. Jonathan Rosenbaum ’14, jrosenbaum16@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Recently the Phi Chapter helped host a charity event with the local Delta Delta Delta chapter where we had a pancake eating contest to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We also hosted a very successful haunted house for Philadelphia area children. Our chapter has several new house improvements. The first of which is a new dishwasher in the kitchen that helps with sanitation and eliminates the buildup of dishware.

We have also had our wood floor refinished in the entire house.

Saint Louis (ΖΤ) Saint Louis, Mo. Trey Pfleging ’13, rpflegin@slu.edu WHAT’S UP: The Zeta Tau Chapter has continued its rapid growth this year by recruiting one of its greatest pledge classes to date. This class consists of men of both high quality and quantity, with 31 pledges. The Zeta Tau Chapter has continued its commitment to cultivation of the intellect by improving its GPA to second on campus with a 3.21. Our chapter is headed in the right direction and we are excited to finish out the year with the same success we started it with.

San Diego (ΖΩ) San Diego, Calif.

Chad Dunham ’13, ccdunham@sandiego.edu WHAT’S UP: Our chapter recently celebrated the success of our fourth annual Surf As One event benefiting the Life Rolls On organization. Representatives from every Greek chapter on campus attended the event and showed their support for philanthropic values. All of the active brothers were instrumental in helping with the coordination, logistics and product donations that were raffled off to support spinal cord research with Life Rolls On. San Jose State (ΖΗ) San Jose, Calif.

Aaron Crosby ’12, aaroncrosby@hotmail.com WHAT’S UP: The chapter organized an alumni mixer in San Francisco on December 1. Recently, the chapter recruited a pledge class of nine, the largest pledge class in four years. Last semester, the chapter increased its GPA by 0.15 points compared to fall 2011. We are currently looking for alumni interested in volunteering to join the chapter’s house corporation.

Sewanee (ΓΧ) Sewanee, Tenn.

Mitchell Sams ’13, Samsmryan@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Chi Chapter has established an aggressive rush policy to compete with our highly competitive rush system. We are continuing to develop alumni relations to raise funds for our new chapter room. Finally, we have developed a philanthropy group that comprises multiple long-term relationships with several organizations. We renovated our house and added two more bedrooms.

SMU (ΓΩ) Dallas, Texas Andrew Klitch ’13, aklitch@smu.edu WHAT’S UP: The past academic year has been a great one for the Gamma Omega Chapter. At the 173rd General Convention, Gamma Omega won the Knox Award, Sisson Award and had 100 percent member donation to the Sons of the Dragon Club. This past spring, Gamma Omega paired with the ladies of Delta Gamma to win SMU’s annual Sing-Song competition. Gamma Omega also placed second in grades and second in intramurals for the spring semester.

South Carolina (Υ) Columbia, S.C. Charlie Otten ’13, scbetapresident@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Upsilon Chapter is proud to have its charter back, and had a nice weekend of events for parents and alumni to celebrate our reinstallation. Our chapter moved into a new house this semester.

Thirty-nine brothers live in the residence and our 100+ man chapter eats lunch and dinner together in the house, served by our chef, Ms. Freda. Our house director, Drew Harvill, lives in the house and helps with maintenance and programming for the chapter.

South Dakota (ΓΑ) Vermillion, S.D. Justin Breske ’14, justin.breske@oyotes.usd.edu WHAT’S UP: So far this semester, the men of Gamma Alpha were Greek Week champions, celebrated our 100th anniversary on USD’s campus, and increased focus on recruitment and retention.

We have made improvements to our house with a new dining room set, as well as a new formal living room, which is completely renovated with new furniture, tables, trophies and more.

Southern California (ΓΤ) Los Angeles, Calif.

Henry Stroud ’14, hstroud@usc.edu WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Tau Chapter has been hard at work at the University of Southern California. We have improved our academics, achieving a higher GPA than both the All-Greek and All-University Average. We also raised a record amount of money for Swim With Mike, a philanthropy founded by Gamma Tau Alumnus Ron Orr. Finally, we proudly accepted 21 young men who wil llive the values of our organization.

Southern Illinois (ΖΟ) Carbondale, Ill. Steven Ebers ’13, eebs@siu.edu WHAT’S UP: Our chapter has had many recent significant achievements. After finishing the spring semester with the top GPA of all 16 IFC chapters, the chapter continues to promote academics and recruit based on our values. At the IFC Awards, we won Excellence in New Member Programming, Excellence in Academic Programming, Most Improved Chapter, President of the Year and our Special Events/Alumni Relations Chairman, Alan Hogan, won New Member of the Year.

South Carolina Installation During the weekend of September 28-30, the Upsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi held its chapter reinstallation. Brothers, parents, alumni and dignitaries from both the General Fraternity and the university, came to Columbia, S.C., for the celebration.

On Saturday morning, the Installation Ceremony was held, with General Fraternity Vice President Dan Westra, Virginia Tech ’76 (left), serving as the presiding officer. The weekend culminated into the Grand Gala, which was held at the South Carolina State Museum.

More than 350 people were in attendance, including the keynote speaker, Former General Fraternity President B. Hume Morris, Centre ’68, who delivered a powerful address. After a successful weekend of friendship and fidelity, the Upsilon Chapter was officially welcomed back into the Fraternity.

44

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Chapter Reports

St. Lawrence (ΒΖ) Canton, N.Y. Andrew Weitzel ’13, akweit09@stlawu.edu WHAT’S UP: The Beta Zeta Colony has taken many steps in order to reconnect with our alumni and strengthen our presence on campus and in the community. We held the first Beta Zeta reunion in St. Lawrence’s history, with more than 100 alumni in attendance. Our chapter has also participated in a variety of community service opportunities, such as helping put up a greenhouse that a local farmer received a $6,000 FDA grant for.

Stevens (Σ) Hoboken, N.J. Ben Watkins ’13, sigma1152@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Sigma Chapter awarded its first Dedicated Alumnus Award, named after our very own Emile R. Hill ’56. The inaugural award was given to Albert M. Balkiewicz ’95. For philanthropy, the brothers re-mulched approximately 190 tree pits along the main road of Hoboken, N.J., as part of a community service project with the Hoboken Shade Tree Commission. The chapter has placed a large emphasis on recruitment this fall semester as well.

Texas A&M-CC (ΖΡ) Corpus Christi, Texas Timothy Cain ’13, timothycain91@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Our chapter recruited a pledge class of 13 men.

Brother Eric Lindgren is president of the official student athletic booster organization that rallies the sporting spirit among fellow Islanders fans.

Brother James Peiper is president of the Islander Trap and Skeet team. James is also on the board for the Rec-sports council. Our current philanthropy is the Lindgren Foundation which raises awareness for testicular cancer.

Texas at Arlington (ΔΡ) Arlington, Texas Jay Leverenz ’15, j.leverenz437@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This year, the focus has been on recruitment.

With only 12 active members recruiting, we added seven new members to our chapter this fall. We have developed a solid list of possible recruits that currently has more than 100 names on it. We have alcohol-free recruitment activities on a weekly basis, and at multiple events we have had more than 15 recruits in attendance.

Toronto (ΘΖ) Toronto, Ont.

TCU (Colony) Forth Worth, Texas Austin Marple ’14, austin.t.marple@tcu.edu WHAT’S UP: Our colony has had an amazing first year. We were able to recruit and initiate another 32 men to our brotherhood and truly enhance our chapter with their leadership and values. Though we are still a young colony, we feel as if we are constantly improving and learning more about what it means to be a part of the Fraternity. We will continue to move forward each and every day in order to eventually receive our charter.

Julian Chabane ’13, julian.chabane@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Brothers of the Theta Zeta Chapter have already won rich laurels this semester, organizing and chairing a campus IFC and associated Greek Week with 14 other campus fraternities and seven Pan-Hellenic Sororities. Toronto Betas raised the most money for the Greek Week Philanthropy, did the best in the sports category, and were crowned the week’s champions before the entire Greek community.

Truman State (ΖΞ) Kirksville, Mo.

Tennessee (ΔΚ) Knoxville, Tenn.

Jeremy Huey ’13, jhuey0991@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This semester, the goal of the Delta Kappa Chapter has been to improve our academics and better live the values of our great organization. So far we have seen improvement in both of these areas. As far as our house is concerned, we recently built a guard rail for our house and are working on putting in new flooring. We have redone our roof and painted our whole house.

Texas A&M (ΕΗ) College Station, Texas Brent Gresham ’14, greshb97@att.net WHAT’S UP: This fall, Texas A&M held its first Aggie Greek Awards Banquet. Our chapter was the only chapter to receive an award — the Excellence Award — for significant improvement year to year in the areas of academics and programming. Additionally one of our members, Mark Lutz, received the Respect Award, and we had many finalists including: Brent Gresham (Fraternity Man of the Year), Cullen Mills (Integrity Award), Bryan Kelly (Selfless Service) and Mary Elizabeth Herring (Chapter Advisor of the Year).

Northeastern Skypes with Lugar With all 56 men at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass., donating to last year’s Sons of the Dragon Club, which benefits the Beta Leadership Fund, the chapter was rewarded with a Skype interview with a Beta Great of their choosing. Their choice was the Honorable Richard G. Lugar, Denison ’54 — the 36-year United States Senator of Indiana.

Zach Burklund ’13, zkb5132@truman.edu WHAT’S UP: We achieved recognition for a Knox Award this year at the 173rd General Convention. This was something that we worked all year to achieve, and the men of this chapter were elated to receive the most prestigious award given to a Beta chapter. We were recognized on campus for being exemplary in both grades and service, and our chapter won the Intramural Championship at the end of the school year.

Utah (ΓB) Salt Lake City, Utah

Chas Foote ’15, chasfoote@comcast.net WHAT’S UP: The most significant achievement for our colony this year was celebrating the opening of our newly renovated chapter house. Gamma Beta alumni donated $1.2 million to the renovation effort. We had a very successful ribbon cutting event in which actives, alumni and the entire university Greek community came together to celebrate the accomplishment. We successfully used the house to recruit 36 new members, bringing our membership total to 82 men.

Nova Southeastern Helps Man’s Best Friend The Zeta Mu Chapter at Nova Southeastern, located in Ft. Lauerdale, Fla., took to the lanes in order to raise money for local canines. The men held “Bowling for Boxers” and raised more than $1,500 (compared to $750 last year) for veterinary bills of dogs in need.

Oregon Hangs with Neil Everett ESPN’s and Beta’s own Neil Everett spends some time with our Beta Rho brothers at Oregon before a football game in September. Initiated into the Gamma Sigma Chapter at Willamette University in Salem, Brother Everett affiliated with our Beta Rho Chapter and graduated from Oregon in 1984. GO DUCKS!

www.betathetapi.org

45

Chapter Reports

Vanderbilt (ΒΛ) Nashville, Tenn.

Mike Maley ’14, michael.d.maley@vanderbilt.edu WHAT’S UP: This semester, our chapter has placed importance on improving our philanthropy efforts. We combined with three other groups and raised nearly $25,000 in our annual philanthropy event, “Kickoff Cookoff.” Furthermore, we helped lead the “Lights on the Lawn Concert,” along with the other IFC chapters, which raised more than $72,000. We have improved our house by painting the upstairs and adding new furniture.

Villanova (ΖΕ) Villanova, Pa. Jason Frandi ’13, jason.frandi@villanova.edu WHAT’S UP: The Zeta Epsilon Chapter is happy to welcome six new members to our brotherhood. With a completely restructured new member program and a renewed focus on philanthropy and ritual, Villanova is seeing a side of Beta Theta Pi that has not been present in many years on this campus. We will finish out this semester always keeping in mind that we must improve our chapter for those who come after us.

Virginia (Ο) Charlottesville, Va.

Washington & Jefferson (Γ) Washington, Pa. Luke Watterson ’13, wattersonlw@jay.washjeff.edu WHAT’S UP: Last semester, our chapter improved our GPA to 3.21, the highest of any fraternity on campus at W&J. Still, we know that we can do better and have set a goal to improve this figure each semester. Further, this fall we celebrated 170 years of chapter operations. A special thanks to alumni, friends of the chapter, and the General Fraternity for all of your support throughout the years.

Washington and Lee (ΑΡ) Lexington, Va.

Michael O’Connell ’14, meo3gd@virginia.edu WHAT’S UP: The Omicron Chapter of Beta Theta Pi was named the most outstanding chapter among all fraternities at the University of Virginia and we partnered with Chi Omega to put on a very successful philanthropy event benefitting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. We have a beautiful house that was completely renovated two years ago, and since then we have worked hard to keep the house in pristine condition.

Jon Salm ’13, Salmj13@mail.wlu.edu WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Rho Chapter has started the year off very well. During the fall sports season, Betas played on the Washington and Lee football, soccer and track teams. A number of Betas are very involved on campus, as well. Senior Danny Murray began his term as IFC president and senior Doug Poetzsch serves as head of W&L Student Consulting.

Virginia Tech (ΑΦ) Blacksburg, Va.

Washington in St. Louis (ΑΙ) St. Louis, Mo. Willy Chotzen-Freund ’13, wubetapresident@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: In honor of Beta’s devotion to intellectual growth, we organized an event titled, “Beta Theta Pi Presents: A Discussion on the Role of Our Generation,” that engaged the entire Washington University community in thoughtful discussion. Earlier this semester, we also orchestrated a highly successful overnight brotherhood retreat, and we refined our internal operations by creating a robust committee system. We also wrote a comprehensive transition manual for newly initiated brothers.

Matt Hoffner ’13, mhoffner@vt.edu WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Phi Chapter started off fall 2012 with a very strong recruitment period which resulted in a pledge class of 23 men. The brothers of the chapter are also working hard in philanthropies, including placing first in Delta Delta Delta’s “Flapjacks and Football” and writing more than 1,000 letters for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Finally, the Alpha Phi Chapter has created a new philanthropy, “Beta Star Search,” which will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

Wabash (Τ) Crawfordsville, Ind. Jimmy Kervan ’13, jpkervan13@wabash.edu WHAT’S UP: One of our priorities we established at the end of last year was to improve our connection with our alumni base. This year, we have started strong in this aspect. We already have three scheduled events this semester with expected attendance to be 50 or more alumni. We also rushed the third largest pledge class on our campus with an average high school GPA above a 3.6 and more than 80% of whom will be varsity athletes at Wabash.

46

Washington (ΒΩ) Seattle, Wash.

Trevor Kellogg ’14, trevorkellogg51@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: This past year, the Beta Omega Chapter has signed a 36-member pledge class through year-round informal recruitment. In the 2011-2012 academic school year, the Beta Omega Chapter sustained a 3.40 GPA each of the three quarters. Our chapter GPA remained in the top three of all University of Washington fraternities throughout the year.

We look forward to making even more improvements in our recruitment and academics as the year goes on.

Washington State (ΓΘ) Pullman, Wash.

Michael Kamradt ’14, michael.kamradt@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: Our chapter emphasized values-based recruitment this past year in a way we never have before. As a result, we are seeing a pledge class more motivated than in years past with enthusiasm to share. We have also been utilizing more ritual reviews, with alumni coming in to help lead discussions about why we exist as an organization. In the coming weeks, we are looking forward to our cornhole tournament philanthropy, as well as starting to recruit a solid spring pledge class.

Maine Chapter House

Penn State Chapter House

“The Beta Eta Chapter has recently installed a natural gas conversion unit and pipe line. With this upgrade our chapter is expecting to save between $15,000 and $20,000 a year on our heat and utilities bills.”

“The Alpha Upsilon chapter house features carpeted hallways, hardwood floors, leather couches, full-size bunk beds, heated tile bathroom floors, granite counter tops, heat and air-conditioning, and many more luxurious amenities. The house also is fully equipped with a sprinkler system, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every room, emergency lights, and burglar and fire alarm systems to keep the brotherhood safe.”

THE BETA THETA PI WINTER 2013

Chapter Reports

Wesleyan (ΜΕ) Middletown, Conn.

Elliot Albert ’14, ealbert@wesleyan.edu WHAT’S UP: Our chapter has a pledge class of 20 diverse students from all around the country and this year’s class is our chapter’s largest pledge class in the past decade. The chapter also hosted an extremely successful program called the “Grassroots Economics Training for Understanding Power,” named by school administration as the program of the month. Additionally, many of our members and pledges continue to thrive not only in academics, but in athletics, whether it be soccer, basketball or lacrosse.

West Virginia (ΒΨ) Morgantown, W.Va.

William & Mary (ΖΥ) Williamsburg, Va. Nick Hampson ’13, nhamps44@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Zeta Upsilon Chapter achieved a 3.45 GPA which was the best of all fraternities on campus in the spring 2012 semester. This fall, we added 19 new pledges, the largest pledge class since the founding of the chapter. We will continue to focus our efforts on becoming the leaders of our campus and a respected chapter in the eyes of our professors, peers and college administrators. The Zeta Upsilon Chapter is looking forward to moving into the new fraternity housing complex being built by the college.

Wisconsin (ΑΠ) Madison, Wis.

Frank Stancampiano ’13, fstancam@mix.wvu.edu WHAT’S UP: Beta Psi is proud to be back in good standing with the Fraternity. We were awarded Most Improved Fraternity for 2012 at WVU. We hosted our annual philanthropy, “Beta Bowl.” Beta Psi has won five sorority sponsored athletic philanthropies and donated more than $2,000 to various charities in the past year. Beta Psi’s WVU intramural flag football team had an undefeated 2012 season.

Brandon Lamp ’14, bjlamp23@gmail.com WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Pi Chapter has begun a cultural change that will benefit the chapter with recruitment, community service and social activities. We are sending many of our members to leadership conferences and are focused and determined to make the Alpha Pi Chapter one that is aligned with the prinicples and values of Beta. Our house, thanks to a generous alumni donation, has a recently renovated chapter room, dining room and trophy room.

Westminster (ΑΔ) Fulton, Mo. Richard Sterns ’14, RSterns.14@westminster-mo.edu WHAT’S UP: The Alpha Delta Chapter has had significant achievement in the area of community service this semester.

The chapter recently completed our philanthropy week where we raised nearly $1,000 for Chad’s Coalition to prevent teen suicide. As a chapter, we have also volunteered in several community service events sponsored by the Mexico Missouri Jaycees.

Wisconsin-Oshkosh (ΖΖ) Oshkosh, Wis. Joshua Wittkowske ’13, wittkj61@uwosh.edu WHAT’S UP: During the previous academic year, the Zeta Zeta Chapter averaged a 3.08 GPA, which led all campus fraternity’s. In addition, freshman Zach Dunton was awarded the Emerging Greek Leader and Ethan Turner was awarded Greek Man of the Year during the Spring 2012 Greek Awards. Overall, the chapter has been very successful, and I am very proud of what we have accomplished on our campus. We will continue to live out Beta’s values on a daily basis.

Whitman (ΓΖ) Walla Walla, Wash.

Zachary Johnston ’14, johnstzm@whitman.edu WHAT’S UP: The Gamma Zeta Chapter has continued to achieve academically with a 3.2 GPA. Our brothers have excelled both in the chapter and in the larger Whitman community, boasting student representatives and numerous club presidents. We recruited a strong class of principled men, and have continued to revamp our pledge education program to carry on the mission and vision of Beta Theta Pi.

Wittenberg (ΑΓ) Springfield, Ohio Tyler Radley ’13, s13.tradley@wittenberg.edu WHAT’S UP: This year, our chapter has been focused on rebuilding the Kai Committee to praise brothers for their achievements along with upholding our standards as brothers. We’ve also tried to focus more on our philanthropic endeavors by donating money to the Lil Mac Kids Foundation, an organization which helps children with autism. So far, it has been a productive year for our chapter and we look to finish out the year strong.

Wichita State (ΔΓ) Wichita, Kan. Justin Dugan ’14, jwdugan@wichita.edu WHAT’S UP: In the last academic year, the Delta Gamma Chapter of Beta Theta Pi has made great strides. Our overall grade point average is the best it’s been in several years. The Oliver Elliott Library in our house is constantly utilized by our members. Our scholarship chairman, Matt Straka ’15, has led our members to have an increased positive outlook on our academics and our cultivation of the intellect.

Toronto Chapter House

West Virginia Chapter House

“The brothers are in the process of completing a full-scale kitchen and first floor washroom renovation. The vast majority of the work was done by the active brothers and a few dedicated alumni.

The finishing touches to our house renovations will be a beautiful chapter seal and Fraternity Coat of Arms.”

“Beta Psi’s chapter house has a freshly painted basement thanks to the active brothers, new furniture in our great hall and dining hall thanks to alumni, and a new 60’’ TV thanks to our house corporation. Money has been allocated to the spring semester for new sand in the volleyball court. Future renovations include repaving the driveway and a facelift to the front patio area.”

www.betathetapi.org

47

Mystic Shrine

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

Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. MD Alabama

Missouri ’43

Tissington, J. Grady ’07, May 10

Amherst Bassos, George ’65, Oct. 22, 2011 Beeching, Charles W. ’52, Sept. 18

Ball State Armstrong, Frank L. ’80, May 31 Matias, Dwayne C. ’80, Feb.

Beloit Gould, Richard J. ’44, July 2 C

Bethany Milhorn, George D. ’57, Sept. 11 Raub, Paul L. Jr. ’41, Sept. 28

British Columbia Rossiter, James R. (Jamie) ’69, May 23

California, Los Angeles Hansen, Allan E. ’51, July 30 C Keith, Alexander C. (Skip) ’57, May 30 Phillips, Donald L. ’54, Sept. 23, 2011 C Smith, Robert B. ’47, Sept. 20, 2011

July 26. Born on June 1, 1922, and initiated into the Zeta Phi Chapter on March 2, 1940, Dr. Hugh E. Stephenson Jr., Missouri ’43, was recruited into Beta Theta Pi by Rush Chairman, Class President and Walmart Founder Sam Walton, Missouri ’40. Stephenson served as General Fraternity President from 1978-81, and in 1997, was the 30th recipient of the Fraternity’s highest honor for professional distinction, the Oxford Cup. He served as long-time chapter counselor and mentor to virtually every Zeta Phi Chapter president since the early 1940s, including dozens of Betas from all chapters pursuing the field of medicine. Assuming responsibility for lobbying the state legislature to confirm the university’s medical school be located in Columbia, he was appointed President of the Board of Curators in 1996. A distinguished cardio-thoracic surgeon, Stephenson is also credited with developing one of the first portable defibrillators, which now resides in a tribute dedicated to him in the extensive museum of the new Zeta Phi chapter house. A reception following Dr. Stephenson’s memorial service was held at the new Zeta Phi chapter house on August 11, 2012. Fittingly, the entryway was adorned with a black drape to honor him with distinction. Dr. Stephenson is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sally, son Ted, SMU ’88, daughter Anne Stephenson Cameron and her husband Alex, and grandchildren Sarah and Scott Cameron.

Case Boydell, A. Kenneth ’52, Sept. 4 LaRose, Richard G. ’55, July 2.

Sords, Robert O. ’45, Aug. 21 C

Case Western Reserve Pieczonka, Jason J. ’04, June 19

Chicago Krolak, Dr. Patrick D. ’62, Aug. 25

Cincinnati Cardy, Robert W. ’59, Aug. 21 Ely, Rex E. ’57, March 9 Palmer, Robert D. ’63, July 13

48

THE BETA THETA PI WINTer 2013

Colgate

Dartmouth

Buder, Alan H. ’77, Jan. 8 Holland, Daniel E. Jr. ’50, Nov. 21, 2011 C

Gardner, James W. Jr. ’69, April 30

Colorado Burger, James M. ’44, May 9 C

Bowman, John E. ’61, May 9 Lewis, D. Richard (Rick) ’72, April 10

Colorado College

DePauw

Fisher, Harrison John (Jack) ’51, July 12 C Davidson, Joseph F. Jr. ’42, Dec. 26, 2011 C Ebbert, Martin Jr. ’61, Feb. 13 Neckerman, William M. Jr. ’31, Dec. 23, 2011 Woolley, James F. ’59, Nov. 3, 2011

Parker, Wilson H. ’49, Sept. 18 C

Denison

Dickinson Wing, Herbert G. ’48, Aug. 5 C Yuengling, Frederick G. ’55, Aug. 3

Mystic Shrine

Duke

Louisville

Northwestern

Bott, Edward S. ’44, May 30 C

Burkhardt, Anton E. III ’87, Sept. 26 Hall, John T. ’99, Sept. 18 C

Gambill, Robert P. ’50, Feb. 16 C

Maine

Hartman, Robert E. ’49, May 15 C Minor, Robert W. ’40, June 26 C

Emory Demopoulos, James G. ’75, May 9, 2010

Florida Anderson, David M. Sr. ’58, July 25 Quigley, Rev. F. Vernon ’43, Nov. 28, 2011 C Stebbins, Richard G. (Dick) ’54, June 21 C Synstad, Wayne C. ’59, June 22 C

Boardman, James A. ’36, Jan.15 Field, Horace S. ’35, Feb. 9 Sprout, Alton L. Jr. ’49, July 3 C

Minnesota Anderson, Merlin L. ’61, April 24 Kelly, Howard W. ’41, May 10 C Lauder. Charles H. ’51, July 15 C Lewis, Samuel W. ’47, April 27 C Steiner, Richard W. ’43, Nov. 22, 2011

Illinois Branom, William H. (Bill) ’54, March 26 C Crist, Archie N. ’51, Sept. 13 C England, Joseph W. ’62, June 7 Evans, Charles M. ’98, July 6 Mayhill, R. Thomas ’40, June 26 Townsend, Richard C. ’67, May 13

Baldwin, Henry N. ’54, Aug. 14 Bartels, William B. ’44, Sept. 22 C Best, Robert M. ’44, Oct. 10 C Cook, David L. ’57, May 28 C Farley, William K. ’74, Sept. 4 Mathews, Jack G. ’54, June 25

Johnson, Edward A. ’47, Sept. 29 C

Hamilton, William M. ’47, Aug. 26, 2011 Hughs, Dan T. ’53, May 3 Monger, Frank M. ’55, April 26 Durant, Xavier E. (Bus) ’47, Aug. 18 C McBirney, William R. Jr. (Bob) ’56, June 22 Smith, W. Zenas (Zeke) ’50, June 25 C

Ohio Wesleyan

Miami

Georgia Tech

Idaho

Ohio State

Oklahoma

Mississippi Jourdan, David O. Jr. ’50, July 19 C Lacy, Jack B. Jr. ’75, June 29

Missouri Darrough, Samuel A. ’40, Jan. 29 Ekern, H. Peter (Pete) MD, ’55 June 28 C

MIT

Oklahoma State

Peck, Robert D. ’44, Aug. 10 C

Corey, James B. ’51, June 29 Rickman, Murray L. ’43, July 27 C Stockard, Dr. Rex E. Jr. ’61, June 30 C Stout, Philip E. ’62, Aug. 26 C

Nebraska

Indiana Eveleigh, Carl F. Jr. ’52, June 16 C

Iowa Criswell, D. Bruce. ’75, Sept. 23 Harvey, Sean C. ’00, Aug. 8 Hintz, Dan H. ’50, March 23 C Roseland, John S. ’52, Sept. 12 C

Craig, Jon A. ’69, May 3 Dannenberg, Roy B. ’50, Jan, 24 Fears, Jesse R. Hon. Oct.6 Hewett, Herbert F. (Jack) ’47, Sept. 7 C Fields, David E. Jr. ’51, Feb. Lippmann, E. Joseph Jr. (Jody) ’70, Dec. 2011 C Millspaugh, Robert C. III ’75, Oct. 7 Shapard, Edwin J. ’63, Sept. 25 Turner, Fred G. ’54, June 15 C Wooley, Jeffrey I. ’66, Sept. 17

Bradley, Gene E. ’43, Sept. 6 C Stewart, Roger M. ’48, July 10 C

North Carolina

Oregon

Betts, James A. Jr. ’99, Aug. 2 Shuford, Dr. Fuller A. ’58, July 6 Tolson, Hubert G. Jr. ’52, June 22 C

Foskett, Robert A. (Bob) ’66, July 1 McGowan, John S. ’40, June 4 C

Oregon State

Iowa State

Shaylor, Robin H. ’63, Sept. 15 C

Clark, Thomas S. Jr. ’57, Aug. 1 C Compton, Dr. Robert H. (Bob) ’51, May 8 Levis, Robert E. MD ’56, April 19, 2011 Wiegman, John H. ’51, May 23 C

Kansas Dreher, Dr. Henry S. Jr. ’40, July 11 C Hardy, Jay H. ’56, Feb. 4 C Hayes, Bryant T. ’64, May 30 Roderick, Dr. James E. Jr. ’46, Sept. 10 C

Kansas State Batt, Robert A. ’51, Aug. 26 C

Kenyon Newcomer, James W. ’33, Aug. 25 C

Knox Peck, Jerry L. ’57, July 1

Lehigh Gladstone, Richard W. ’67, Oct. 1 Hall, Richard J. ’47, March Roper John N. Jr. (Jack) ’34, July 10

Craig L. Turner Missouri-Kansas City ’15 Sept. 21. Born in Winfield, Kan., on Oct. 8, 1990, Turner was an active member of his Winfield High School swim team, having set records in freestyle swimming and competed in several state swim meets. A fourth-year student in UMKC’s acclaimed six-year B.A./M.D. program, Turner served as the chapter’s scholarship chairman and was described as “an incredibly well-respected and loved member of Beta Theta Pi.” His younger brother, Heath, recently followed in his footsteps and pledged Beta as a freshman at UMKC. The Beta flag at the Administrative Office in Oxford was lowered to half-staff for eight days – symbolic of the eight men who founded the Fraternity Craig so loved. All 124 Beta chapters and colonies also lowered their local Beta flags and performed the “Beta Burial Service” at 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 27, the day of Craig’s funeral service. Turner is survived by his brother Heath Turner, a UMKC freshman and Beta Theta Pi member, parents Wade and Laura and siblings Brent and Lauren.

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

www.betathetapi.org

49

Mystic Shrine

Pennsylvania

Washington

Barstow, William M. Jr. ’41, June 18 C

Cahill, Daniel H. ’50, Sept. 26, 2011 C Hansen, Allan E. ’51 , July 30 McCallum, John W. ’50, May 21 C Norquist, Brandt M. (Bud) ’61, Aug. 7 C

Penn State Finger, Malcolm L. ’50, May 7 C

Purdue Graham, John U. ’40, Sept. 16 C Rampe, David A. ’46, Jan. 10 C Smith, Thomas H. ’49, Sept. 9 C Stone, Tim R. ’64, Sept. 24 C

Rutgers Friedman, Leo ’78, April 6 Maycher, Dennis A. ’70, Oct. 8 C

Sewanee

King, R. Royal ’60, Jan. 16, 2011 Tomassene, Raymond S. ’83, Sept. 10 C

Washington in St. Louis Bush, Richard W. (Dick) ’56, April 12 C Stradal. Walter J. Jr. ’50, Sept. 17 C

Washington State Schlademan, Dr. Karl R. ’37, April 21

Morton, R. Dale ’73, June 17 Yeary, James K. ’64, April 18

Wesleyan

South Dakota

West Virginia

Shanard, David J. ’52, April 30 C Shanard, George H. ’50, Aug. 3 C

Barrett, Edgar O. III (Eddie) ’52, June 15 C Halbruner, Wesley L. ’66, May 16 Morgan, Thomas W. DDS ’68, May 29 Storc k, Paul F. ’42, May 4 C Wickline, Alfred N. ’71, June 16 C

SMU Thompson, Samuel III ’53, May 19

Stanford Narver, Richard L. (Dick) ’45, May 27 C

Stevens

Snow, Charles W. Jr. ’45, Sept. 2 C

Westminster Buckner, Robert C. ’37, Aug. 31 Van Dyke, Barclay ’36, July 3 C

Ulversoy, Dennis ’77, May 10

Whitman

Syracuse

Harris, Howard E. ’65, May 8 Mays, William H. ’54, Aug. 21 Sawyer, Robert H. (Bob) ’49, June 5

Fowler, Henry M. (Harry) ’40, Nov. 30, 2011

Texas Ferguson, Kenneth W. ’63, July 5 Gober, Forrest ’42, June 16 Heidelberg, Hoppy E. ’62, April 30 C Hindman, James W. III ’69, Sept. 28 Puckett, Robert M. ’47, Aug. 27

Texas Tech Wylie, David E. ’72, Aug. 27.

Bradburn, Dr. Donald M. ’46, July 4 C Ewin, Gordon O. ’43, June 16 C Heebe, Odom B. ’60, May 5

Utah Breinholt, Robert H. ’60, Aug. 23 Campbell, Richard W. ’52, Aug. 14 C Hamblin, P. Bret ’90, June 6 Perkins, F. Michael ’57, July 17

Vanderbilt

Wichita State Dvorak, Dustin R. ’08, Sept. 15 Mann, Herbert L. ’63, Aug. 16

Willamette Kester, Randall B. ’50, May 30 Wilson, Dr. James A. ’49, Sept. 28 C

Williams Murphy, Duncan B. Jr. ’43, July 28 Weeks, Francis D. Jr. ’53, August 3 C

Wisconsin Himsel, William L. (Bill) ’70, May 10 C

Wittenberg Belles, Robert M. ’57, July 19 Hale, Timothy R. ’72, June 18 Young, Howard E. ’39, June 7 C

Garrott, Clifton H. ’60, June 15.

Perry, John E. (Jack) ’41, July 16 C

Yale

Virginia

— Phyllis Bowie, Beta Theta Pi Receptionist, phyllis.bowie@betathetapi.org

Boothe, William M. ’50, July 17 C

50

Washington & Jefferson

THE BETA THETA PI WINTer 2013

Hullverson, James E. Sr. ’49, May 26

Burton W. Folsom C nebraska ’49 July 17. Born March 21,1925, Brother Folsom passed away peacefully in Hospice early morning July 17, 2012.

During World War II, he served with the First Division, U.S. Army in Europe, receiving a Purple Heart and earning a Bronze Battle Star, Combat Medics Badge and three campaign battle stars.

By the end of his tour of duty, he was a Staff Sergeant in charge of a Battalion Aide Station in Nuremberg, Germany.

Burt succeeded his grandfather, father and brother as CEO of the Nebraska Central Building and Loan Association of Lincoln, which was merged prior to his moving to Texas in 1982. His first wife, Margaret Reese Folsom, to whom he was married for 50 years, preceded him in death in 1996. Former chapter advisor, district chief, General Fraternity President, Secretary and Treasurer, Burt attended more than 30 General Conventions and was named Beta’s 20th recipient of the Oxford Cup in 1994, and recipient of the Francis W. Shepardson Award for distinguished service to the Fraternity in 2002. With an unbelievably large Beta family that dates back to the founding days of the University of Nebraska chapter in Lincoln in the late 1800s, he is survived by his beloved wife and bridge partner Dell, and children and stepchildren Burton Folsom, Jr., Sally Eveland, Thomas L. Folsom, Westminster ’74, Sharon Currans and Wade Ford.

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

A LASTING MOMENT Charlie and Regional Chief Matthew Walczewski, Truman State ’03, at the 173rd General Convention in Chicago.

Ever since I heard the “Bridge Builder” poem as a pledge in the 1970s, I have been inspired to continuously “build the bridge” for Beta brothers who have been initiated after me. It is important for me to know that they too may benefit from the opportunities I experienced in my college years.

Good friend, I am building this bridge for him . . .

Upon graduating from Virginia Tech in 1975, I have lived within five minutes of my alma mater and the Alpha Phi Chapter for all but two years. Throughout the last 30 years, Beta Theta Pi has remained the one constant in my ever-changing life. As a local neighbor of the chapter house, I have had the opportunity to remain involved with the brothers on a weekly basis, which has allowed me to personally know almost all of the 700 men who initiated after me. In my interactions with these younger chapter brothers, I have witnessed firsthand how they live Beta’s values daily. Watching them live as men of principle is a constant reminder of why I do the same.

I believe Beta Theta Pi is the leader in the fraternity world. The support and leadership opportunities available to our undergraduates are second to none. I continue to volunteer my time and donate money to the Beta Foundation, so I can ensure current and future brothers have an even more rewarding Beta experience than the one I cherish. These young men will become our future leaders on college campuses and in the business world, and it is important to invest in their continued development. Through my annual contributions and long-term estate planning, I am “building this bridge” for my undergraduate brothers, and I hope you will join me in helping pave the way as we continue Beta’s mission of developing men of principle for a principled life. — Charlie Comer, Virginia Tech ’75, ccomer@sasbuilders.com

Comer was born and raised in Newport News, Va. Upon graduating with a B.S. in accounting from Virginia Tech in 1975, Comer returned home to work for a steamship agency. After two and a half years, Comer returned to Blacksburg and established Comer Construction, where he built residential and light commercial buildings. Comer currently serves as the vice president of construction and multi-family development for SAS Builders, Inc. and CMG Leasing, Inc. When Comer isn’t cheering on his beloved Hokies in football and basketball, he enjoys working on cars/jeeps, motorcycle riding and golfing.

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

of

www.betathetapi.org

and

heart

mind

Undergraduate Leadership program participation 1,800

1,665

1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400

7

200 0

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Number of undergraduate members 8200 8000

7,860

7800 7600 7400 7200 7000

6,842

6800 6600 6400 6200 1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Average chapter size 70

67.1 65

60

55

50

As suggested in the song that opens a Beta chapter meeting, “Friendship gave our order birth...”

Better words have rarely been offered when trying to explain Beta’s founding.

Thankfully, thousands invest in our young men each year by contributing to the Beta Leadership Fund. And those investments since inception of the Men of Principle initiative in 1998 have yielded a significant return on investment.

The Beta Foundation funds our award-winning programs and services because together they offer a proven formula that develops the hearts and minds of our young men – and generations of young leaders who follow.

Please help the Foundation fully fund this year’s undergraduate-centered programs by making your gift to the BLF by December 31, 2012.

49

45 1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Average chapter GPA 3.200

3.15

3.150 3.100 3.050 3.000 2.950 2.900 2.850

2.82

2.800 2.750 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

www.betathetapi.org/gift