Vol. V, Issue 3
Clar named 2014 Millor Orator Ken Clar ’14, former president of the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi, has been announced after a competitive application and audition process as the 2014 Millor Orator at John Carroll University. The Millor Orator is the only student with the privilege to speak during Commencement Exercises scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2014. Ken's speech will come after the Commencement Address, this year to be delivered by Deborah (Deb) Delisle, former superintendent of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights School District and current U.S. assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education.
INSIDE This Issue
No stranger to the podium, Ken has been involved with several John Carroll admission events, including as one of the featured student speakers at the recent Class of 2018 Celebration (pictured above). He also spoke before Sen. Richard Lugar, Denison ’54, during this past summer's John Reily Knox Club Dinner at the 174 Beta Theta Pi General Convention in Charlotte. Ken follows in the footsteps of two of his presidential predecessors, J.J. Kuczynski ’10, and Andy Lane ’12. Kuczynski served as chapter president in 2009 and was Millor Orator in 2010. Lane was Eta Epsilon's president in 2010 and became
Letter from the President Chapter Reorganization New Executive Board Eta Epsilon’s Newest Brothers
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the Millor Orator in 2012. "Four years ago, I would have never imagined I would be given this opportunity,” Clar exclaimed. “I feel incredibly blessed and humbled to be honored in this way, and to carry on another great JCU Beta tradition!" The Millor Orator is named after the late Rev. William J. Millor, S.J., who served the university in a variety of posts over 28 years. While the text of his speech will not be revealed until Commencement Sunday, Ken promises to deliver a great message.
Review of Carroll’s Got Talent Keystone Reflections Stillwagon is Outstanding Leader Catching Up With Andy Costigan
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A Letter from the President Daniel P. Mascio ’16
hold each other accountable and to take responsibility for each other's actions.
Dear Brothers, Alumni, Family, and Friends, I address you all with great honor and pride as the seventh president of the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi. While John Carroll University has changed my life immensely these past two years, it pales in comparison to what this fraternity has done for me. Nothing in my young, adult life has shaped my character and helped me grow into a gentleman, leader, and scholar quite like Beta Theta Pi has in just six months. This chapter has been through a lot this year. Most recently, we were placed under reorganization by the General Fraternity. This process, which saw 15 moved to "early alumni" status, took an emotional toll on the brothers of the chapter. In a tumultuous time such as this, it is important to remember a very prevalent quote that we recite quite often in Beta: "Once a Beta, always a Beta, everywhere a Beta." While we will miss those who are no longer active brothers, we also need to move forward. We, as brothers, move together as a family, whether it be forward or backward. However, the latter cannot, and will not, be an option. If there is one thing that I can promise while I am president of this new chapter, it is that no plan will go unexecuted. My love for this fraternity and my desire for it to become the best chapter in the country is unwavering and without contest. Obstacles will always be present, but they are nothing that we will not be able to overcome. I believe that this still remains the strongest organization on campus, and now is the time to prove ourselves. While it will take some time for this chapter to return to glory, that time will be fully utilized. As an executive board, we will be putting into effect new plans and expectations that will polish the members of this chapter into men that will become leaders not only for this fraternity, but for the world as well. In the coming semester, we will look to our past to correct mistakes and use outside resources as a fresh point of view on where the chapter stands. We will put implicit confidence in our brothers to
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Our Kai Committee will be more active and will not be viewed simply as a disciplinary board. It will become a building block for individuals that praises and develops its fellow brothers. The recruitment system is currently being refined to become one that accepts only the best men for Beta Theta Pi men that will become driving forces for this chapter's future. Member education will continue past the pledge process with educational seminars and professional presentations that will cultivate gentlemen and leaders. It will also guide brothers into involvement with leadership opportunities on campus and through the General Fraternity. While this is only a small snippet of what is to come and while these aren't sweeping reformations, I truly believe these are building blocks to becoming the best chapter we can be. At year's end, we will be bidding farewell to our four seniors, Ken Clar, Benedek Toth, Joel Baker, and Mike Moccia, as they move on to the next chapter in their lives. We wish them the best of luck, and look forward to seeing all of the successes that their future holds for them. They will be greatly missed, and we will hold them in our prayers as they graduate from John Carroll. Looking forward to this summer, we have multiple brothers attending the Wooden Institute, the 175th General Convention, and the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute. We are very excited for these opportunities to grow as gentlemen, leaders, and scholars. I look forward to the fall semester, and I would like to thank all of you who have been such a great influence and support as the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi returns to glory.
Christopher J. Barthen ’16
Volume V, Issue 3 Spring 2014
Vice President for Communication
The Quarterly Newsletter of the Eta Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi
Communication Advisor
Joel W. Mullner ’07
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Yours in ___kai___, Daniel Mascio President, Eta Epsilon Chapter
Contributors:
Jane Barthen & Susan Lee Matthew Ansec ’15 Immer Chriswell ’16 Timothy Ficke ’15 Daniel Mascio ’16 Deane Stillwagon ’17
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Eta Epsilon Chapter undergoes reorganization Members recommit themselves to fraternity’s values moving forward
On March 30, District Chief Joe Chinnici, Ohio State ’64, announced a status change for the Eta Epsilon Chapter on behalf of Beta Theta Pi General Secretary David Schmidt, South Florida ’92. This followed a period of time when a number of members struggled to live by Beta Theta Pi’s core values of mutual assistance, intellectual growth, trust, responsible conduct, and integrity. Beta Theta Pi strives to realize the vision of a fraternity that encourages men to establish a clear direction for themselves and for their chapters. Following a general decline in chapter-wide academic performance, less of an individual and chapter commitment to service and
philanthropy, growing member apathy, several risk management incidents, and a lack of peer accountability, it became clear that Eta Epsilon was not upholding the values and principles of the Fraternity. Reorganization was an effort by chapter advisors, alumni, Fraternity staff and volunteers, and undergraduate chapter leaders to realign the Eta Epsilon Chapter with the founding values of the organization. Beta Theta Pi demands the best from its members, and it was a time to reflect and realize that not all brothers were living up to the expectations of chapter membership.
While under reorganization, chapter members had to rededicate themselves to the values of Beta Theta Pi. They recommitted themselves to practice responsible citizenship, strive for academic excellence, and establish a pattern of responsible personal conduct. Those who did not wish to do so were invited to become “early alumni” for the duration of their undergraduate career. While a difficult process to endure, everyone hopes that with new leadership and a new outlook, Eta Epsilon will live up to its motto of “leadership moving forward” in order to once again become a leading chapter on campus and throughout Beta’s Broad Domain.
Introducing the new Executive Board Officers share their vision and goals for the year
Dan Mascio ’16 - President As President I want to earn back the respect and build up the reputation of this chapter at John Carroll University. Cole Hassay ’16 - VP for Brotherhood As the Vice President for Brotherhood, I want to help turn the chapter around and help it rise up from the tough period it just went through. I hope to do this by helping brotherhood grow and realigning the chapter to its values. Deane Stillwagon ’17 - VP for Programming I want to try to incorporate professional development into our activities as I feel like it would benefit the brothers greatly. I also want to keep a very organized schedule for all of our events. Immer Chriswell ’16 - VP for Member Education I hope to continue to improve the member education program from what I have created in the past semester. Additionally, my goal is to increase engagement between our new members and initiated brothers to make an easier transition.
Chris Casey ’15 - VP for Risk Management I want to establish an environment where we embrace our mistakes and seek to improve from them and to encourage brothers to always behave like gentlemen. Matt Ansec ’15 - VP for Recruitment I am looking to recruit the best gentlemen, leaders, and scholars at JCU, specifically strong leaders who can exemplify the values of a Beta. Dom Interlicchia ’15 - VP for Finance I will keep track of the chapter's finances and complete reimbursements in a timely manner. Chris Barthen ’16 - VP for Communication I want to promote a positive reputation for our chapter and create a positive image of Beta throughout campus. I hope to do this by keeping people up to date with our chapter and making sure that Beta is recognized for all of its accomplishments.
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Meet Eta Epsilon’s most recent initiates Sophomores Sam and Jack Kelly initiated on April 24, 2014
Sam Kelly ’16 is a biology major from Parma, Ohio. He chose John Carroll because it has such a good reputation for its education.
“I chose Beta because I know it will open opportunities for me in the future and I can build strong relationships with the brothers involved as well. I like everything the fraternity stands for, so I felt it was a perfect fit.” Favorite vacation spot: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Favorite sports team: Cleveland Indians. Favorite food: Shepherd’s pie.
Jack Kelly ’16 is also a biology major from Parma, Ohio. He chose John Carroll because of the excellent academics and the campus. “One reason I chose Beta is because I love the guys in it and the organization as a whole.” Favorite vacation spot: North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Favorite sports team: Philadelphia Eagles. Favorite food: Cheeseburger from Five Guys.
Snaps and Shout-Outs
Recognizing the positive contributions brothers make to the campus and community Congratulations to Aaron Crow ’16, selected to serve as a resident assistant in Millor Hall next year. He took part in a highly selective process to get the job. Way to go, Aaron!
Congrats to the following brothers selected to participate on university-sponsored immersion experiences:
Congratulations to Brent Gibala-Broxholm ’17, recently hired to be a tour guide in the Office of Admission. He is one of only 40 tour guides on staff. What a great honor!
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Honduras (May 2014) Tommy Collins ’15
El Salvador (January 2015) John Bannon ’16
Markus Creachbaum ’15 Drew Kostiuk ’15
Nicaragua (January 2015) Markus Creachbaum ’15
Tim Ficke ’15
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Will Hudson ’17
Nepal (May 2015) Immer Chriswell ’16
Connor Hines ’16
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A Review of Carroll’s Got Talent Tim Ficke ’15, philanthropy chair
Carroll’s Got Talent, the Eta Epsilon Chapter’s annual philanthropic event, was another phenomenal success this year. Both prior to and during the show on February 7, we were able to raise over $2,250 for our chapter’s philanthropy, the Milestones Autism Organization. Milestones’ mission is “[dedication] to improving the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Milestones helps individuals reach their potential through education of family members and professionals in evidence-based practical strategies.” This year, we had more contestants for our talent show than ever before. Alex Hale, a young man on the spectrum representing Milestones, performed an original musical number and talked of his “Impossible Dream,” which focuses on encouraging all to chase their dreams. Junior Christian Cronauer won praise from the judges for his piano and vocal prowess, and took home the night’s top honor of being “Carroll’s Best Act.” In between acts, cohosts Drew Kostiuk ’15 and John Bannon ’16 entertained the crowd with their wit and “Minute To Win It” games with audience members. Adding a new spin to the fundraising this year, brothers sent fundraising letters to friends and family to help raise money for Milestones. Next year, plans call for fundraising to start even sooner with a goal of raising $5,000. Over the years, Beta brothers have developed a beneficial relationship with Milestones, and we look forward to further strengthening those ties in the future!
Junior Christian Cronauer after laying claim to the title of “Carroll’s Best Act.”
Beta moms recap Mothers’ Tea Annual event held on Sunday, March 23
This was the first Mothers’ Tea that I attended and it was a great opportunity to meet other mothers with their sons. It was nice to start with Mass before the rest of the program. The game was very clever; there were great questions and it was amusing to watch the mothers guess while their sons were trying to be honest! The slideshow along with a group picture was a nice closing to a nice afternoon at JCU. - Jane Barthen, mother of Chris ’16
There are moments in a mother’s life that are priceless. That is how I felt about the Beta Mothers’ Tea! I cherished spending quality time with my son, Joel, who made me feel like a queen for the day! I love laughing with all his Beta brothers and their moms while we shared stories of their crazy antics at JCU. I cried, too, when the boys sang and presented us with our rose. I am so grateful that Joel has been a part of this exceptional group of men over the past four years. He has developed friendships and memories that will last him a lifetime. This fraternity also has taught him to be a “man for others.” Beta boys are the BEST in my book! Mama Baker says, “YOU GUYS ROCK!” - Susan Lee, mother of Joel Baker ’14 (pictured at left)
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Reflecting on our Keystone experience
I
found that my time at Keystone was very beneficial, and I appreciate the opportunity to attend. I had the pleasure of meeting Betas from other chapters and hearing their different philosophies while gaining leadership skills that will not only benefit me, but the Eta Epsilon chapter. One concept different chapters have developed over time is the idea of a professional development chairman. This undergraduate brother conducts seminars regarding interview etiquette, resume workshops, and bridges the gap between being a student and the working world. In my current role as Vice President of Programming, I hope to introduce this type of programming to the chapter as something that can directly benefit brothers professionally and personally. Overall, the most meaningful time spent at Keystone was the conversations had between brothers. It was great to discuss our goals for the chapter, and develop action plans to initiate these goals. I am confident that we have nowhere to go but up as a chapter, and I believe the experiences had at Keystone will serve as building blocks for the future.
M Members of the executive board and advisory team attended the Keystone Regional Leadership Conference for the North Central region this February in Itasca, Illinois. Keystone is structured so that executive teams can set goals and plan for the year ahead while also providing opportunities for individual officers to learn how to better perform the responsibilities of their positions.
- Deane Stillwagon ’17
JCU brothers with Keystone chapter mentor and Friend of Beta, Amy Colvin.
y time at Keystone was one of the most eye-opening experiences I have ever had during my time as a Beta. I learned a lot about the future of recruitment and how important it is to build a foundation for future recruitment chairs. Also, one of the great lines I heard that weekend was that quality doesn’t beat quantity, but quality drives quantity. With a larger pool of men we can then be more selective of whom shall receive a bid. This weekend was pivotal toward the future of our chapter and was one of my greatest experiences at John Carroll. - Matt Ansec ’15
M
y first Keystone experience was extremely memorable. I felt our executive team gave a wholehearted and genuine effort to improve this chapter, and we bonded as a group. I felt that we were an executive team that was very self-aware of our chapter, and that separated us as a group. My favorite part about Beta's leadership opportunities is getting to meet and share with other chapters and learn from them. I got the chance to talk to and keep in touch with Illinois and Michigan State, which I feel has been beneficial to my perspective on our chapter. - Immer Chriswell ’16
Brother lavaliers girlfriend Toth revives old ritual
It’s formal season around John Carroll, and at the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sapphire Ball in early April, one of Beta Theta Pi’s seniors revived an old ritual practice that is not done frequently in today’s society - the idea of “lavaliering” or “pinning.” Bence Toth ’14 gave his girlfriend, Katie, his fraternity pin. By doing so, he signifies that she means as much to him as his fraternity. This represents a serious step in any couple’s relationship, often thought to be only second to becoming engaged. Congratulations, Katie, and best wishes to both of you!
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Betas set for summer internships Let’s take a look at some really cool internships that some of our brothers have this summer:
Cole Hassay ’16 will be interning for Congressman Bill Johnson in his Washington, D.C. office. He will be conducting casework, going to committee hearings and reporting to staffers, and doing research.
Immer Chriswell ’16 will be interning at GE Lighting at Nela Park. He’s a part of the Financial Planning & Analysis team for the corporate end of the business.
John Bannon ’16 will be doing some general human resources at Bendix Commercial Vehicles LLC (former president Clar’s old stomping ground).
Pete Hopkins ’17 is interning at NBC Universal in Hollywood. On a day to day basis he will be in the film/TV production department and will be working on the financial and creative aspects of making a film.
Tim Schifferle ’16 will be spreading his magic down in Disney World this summer, working on the financial and sales side of the organization.
Stillwagon named Outstanding Student Leader During the University’s annual “Applauding Leadership Excellence” event on April 23, freshman Deane Stillwagon was one of two students in the Class of 2017 recognized with the Outstanding Student Leader Award. The Outstanding Student Leader Award is designed to recognize up to two students in each class who, through their dedicated leadership and involvement, have made significant contributions to changing the campus culture in a positive way during the past year on the JCU campus. These leaders have consistently and unselfishly given of themselves in efforts to enhance the spirit and community of John Carroll. Stillwagon’s nominator was “very impressed with Deane’s maturity level working with Student Union this year. Just in his first year, he has set the tone as a serious leader who is committed to being an advocate for the good of the student body as a whole.” In the fall, Deane was elected as president of the Class of 2017, a position he assumed in January. He also serves as the Student Union Senator representative on the Student Activity Fee Allocation Committee (SAFAC).
Stillwagon with Dr. Kyle O’Dell, director of orientation and leadership programs
“I am extremely humbled to receive this honor,” Deane remarked. “I am eager to continue as a leader on the campus of John Carroll and I will continue working to advance Beta Theta Pi’s reputation on campus and in the community as ‘Gentlemen, Leaders, and Scholars.’”
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Catching Up With Andy Costigan Eta Epsilon’s service and philanthropy advisor
Andy Costigan graduated from John Carroll University in 2008 after serving as Student Union President, a resident assistant, a retreat leader, and so much more. After a number of years away from JCU, he returned to his alma mater in August as the coordinator of immersions and social justice initiatives. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Eta Epsilon advisory team. The Bridge Builder recently had an opportunity to catch up with Andy to discover more about his background and learn about his hopes for service and philanthropy while he serves as an advisor and Friend of Beta.
BB: Why did you want to be a part of Beta Theta Pi? Andy: There are several reasons I wanted to be a part of Beta Theta Pi. First and foremost, I believe in the values which make it a strong fraternity. These are ideals I strive to live out in my own life. Additionally, I was involved in bringing Beta to campus back in 2007, so I am pleased to reconnect with an organization that I have been excited about for many years. Moreover, this has been an opportunity for me to actively support Greek life, which has contributed positively to our campus culture here at JCU. Finally, being involved with Beta allows me to form relationships with many wonderful students outside of my regular
Mutual Assistance
Costigan (center) with his advisees from the past semester, Tim Ficke ’15 (philanthropy chair) and Markus Creachbaum ’15 (service chair)
line of work and support them on their journey through JCU and beyond.
and working in Campus Ministry with the immersion program!
BB: Can you talk a little about what you did prior to campus ministry at John Carroll? Andy: I have had many exciting adventures before taking my current role here at JCU. I served as a Jesuit Volunteer with Homeboy Industries, a Los Angeles-based non-profit that works with former gang members. Additionally, I was a traveling recruiter for the Catholic Volunteer Network and earned my master’s degree from Boston College. Most recently, I worked for two and a half years for a division of the National Council for Higher Education in Washington, D.C. These were all great experiences. I returned to JCU in August 2013 and have loved being back here
BB: What is your vision for service and philanthropy in our chapter? Andy: This is an exciting time for service and philanthropy in our chapter. As we emerge from reorganization, with a renewed commitment to our values, there is great opportunity for growth in these areas. I think several of the men in our chapter already have great passion and are highly involved in both service and philanthropy, and many more are interested in becoming more active. I look forward to working with all of the brothers, individually and collectively, as they navigate how to incorporate service and philanthropy as a central part of both this chapter and their personal lives.
Intellectual Growth
Eta Epsilon Chapter John Carroll University 1 John Carroll Boulevard University Heights, Ohio 44118
Trust
Responsible Conduct
Integrity
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Want to go Beta? Know someone who does? Visit jcubetas.org/recruitment for information on joining our ranks!