the beta theta pi magazine (summer 2007)

M A G A Z I N EBETA THETATHETAT PI

Summer 2007

Meet the New Administrative Secretary

WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING“This is my greatest concern – not having enough trained advisors to fi nish the bridge.”

vo l u n t e e r

As our leadership programs have grown, so has the need for advisors and mentors for our young, bright undergraduates, all of whom possess boundless energy. Our young actives are gaining critical knowledge from our training programs. However, all of this training will be for naught if what is learned is not acted upon and implemented at the chapter level. Knowledge without wisdom is a formula for failure, for wisdom and understanding are the ingredients needed for chapter leaders to execute what they have learned during leadership training.

This is where the chapter advisors come in. They provide the wisdom and understanding, the mentoring needed by the chapter members, as well as continuity of action from one year to the next. Without the advisors, the bridge we are building for our undergraduates

is only half fi nished. This is my greatest concern – not having enough trained advisors to fi nish the bridge.

Serving as an advisor and mentor for the past 17 years has been not only fun, but an energizing experience, watching and helping young men throughout the Northwest grow to be men of character and high principles. Then, watching these talented young men go on to become active members of their respective communities has been a rewarding experience that I would not trade for anything. Yes, there have been some diffi cult times. However, the benefi ts far outweighed the tough times.

There is nothing more rewarding than helping to build the bridge of wisdom and understanding for our youth, upon whose shoulders the future of our countries and our freedom will rest. — D. Phenneger

Dick PhennegerRegional Director

Northwest

Professional: Retired Pan Am captain;

owner of Phenneger & Associates -

consultants in ESOPs and succession planning

Alma Mater:University of Washington

(Beta Omega)

Degree:1958 – bachelor

of science; mechanical engineering; distinguished

military graduate

Hobbies:Chris Craft boats, traveling,

working with youth

Beta Experience:chapter counselor, Eastern

Washington (1990-95); district chief (1995-2001); 162nd General Convention

president (1999)

Summer 2007 3

Departments2 Volunteer4 From the Editor5 Letters to the Editor6 News and Notes8 Books by Betas10 Marching Along11 Alumni News12 Center Stage18 Sports Round Up30 Campus Life45 Fall 4.0s46 Mystic Shrine50 The Last Word51 A Lasting Moment

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/V/V/ ol.Vol.V 135/No. 1 [Summer Contents]

THE BETA THETA PIThe Offi cal Magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity.The oldest continuously published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded The Beta Theta Pi was founded The Beta Theta PiDecember 15, 1872, by Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869.V.M.I. 1869.V.M.I.

Cover Story:16 The Modest ApproachNew Administrative Secretary Jud Horras intends to keep familiarity and progress as Fraternity hallmarks.

FEATURES 14 Hire Expectations Changes on staff help keep fresh ideas circulating in the Administrative Offi ce.

22 Metal of Honor Verlyn Roskam didn’t like seeing dog tags sold as souvenirs on the streets of Vietnam. So he did something about it.

26 GFO Reports Wrapping-up an event ful year, four General Fraternity offi cers provide reports on progress in Beta Theta Pi.

50 Only Now He’s My Brother A story in his own words, an undergraduate shares his experience of initiating his own father.50

16

18

4 The Beta Theta Pi

“Our minds are like our stomachs; they are whetted by the change of their food and variety supplies both with fresh appetites.” — Quintilian

When I fi rst read this quote, I When I fi rst read this quote, I Whad absolutely no idea who Whad absolutely no idea who WQuintilian was. Given the poly-syllabic nature of this surname-only rhetorician, I suspected it was a man who had lived in the time of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle. Turns out, Quintilian followed them by approximately 350 years.

While it is noted that Quintilian passed from this life near the close of the First Century (95 A.D.), his words still ring true as he connects the dots between nourishment for the body and nourishment for the mind. The familiar idiom, “variety is the spice of life,” comes to mind.

Good food — with all its fl avors, colors, smells and textures — not only nourishes, but enhances our experiences, raising our spirits, provoking our imaginations and further whetting our appetites. In this mid-summer season, I can’t help but drift back to the days of my youth when my family would spend weeks on end camping and enjoying the great outdoors.

Our group, comprised of several dozen families, would come together at various Michigan campgrounds and State parks throughout the summer months, usually for several days at time. The highlight for me was always the Saturday night potluck dinner. The men would grill and barbecue all day long as the ladies busily prepared salads, beans, vegetables, hors d’oeuvres and some of the most remarkable desserts you’ve ever seen. It was a smorgasbord for the senses!

A smorgasbord for the senses . . . that language could be used to describe this issue of The Beta Theta Pi magazine. Our “chefs” have been busily The Beta Theta Pi magazine. Our “chefs” have been busily The Beta Theta Pipreparing a variety of articles, stories and tidbits that will whet your Beta appetite during these dog days of summer. Find a comfortable hammock under a shade tree in the backyard, or kick back on your favorite chair in a nice air-conditioned room, and enjoy.

Start with a taste of News & Notes, and wash it down with Marching Alongand Alumni News. Dive into a healthy serving of our feature article about incoming Administrative Secretary Judson Horras (pages 16-17) and savor an inspiring story about “Swede” Roskam’s efforts to return pieces of history in “Metal of Honor,” starting on page 22. Cleanse your palate with a few chapter reports and top it all off with a sweet helping of The Last Word.

We cordially invite you to step away from the ordinary, everyday serving of newspapers and magazines. Take Quintilian’s advice and add a little variety to your literary diet to whet your mental appetite. With so many remarkable things going on in the Fraternity today, you’re bound to fi nd a little inspiration along the way. Bon appétit! — T. Olver

BETA THETA PI FRATERNITYFounded 1839, Miami University

BOARD OF TRUSTEESGENERAL SECRETARY

David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67Ohio State ’67Ohio StatePRESIDENT

P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63GENERAL TREASURER

Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86Kansas State ’86Kansas StateVICE PRESIDENTS

John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56South Dakota ’56South DakotaKenneth J. Grispin, Rutgers ’70

W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68Ohio Wesleyan ’68Ohio WesleyanDavid E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92South Florida ’92South FloridaJoseph M. Troncale, Alabama ’63Alabama ’63AlabamaCharles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87Lynchburg ’87Lynchburg

BETA THETA PI FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

W.H. (Bert) Bates, Missouri ’49Missouri ’49MissouriJames J. Ellis, Missouri ’55 Missouri ’55 Missouri

Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82MIT ’82MITGarland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52Illinois ’52IllinoisThomas W. Hook, Miami ’81Miami ’81Miami

S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73Virginia Tech ’73Virginia TechJeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96Pennsylvania ’96PennsylvaniaLynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64Georgia Tech ’64Georgia Tech

Thomas J. McCasland Jr., Oklahoma ’56Oklahoma ’56OklahomaCharles O. McCormick III, Indiana ’72Indiana ’72Indiana

Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86Kansas State ’86Kansas StateJeffrey N. Newton, Miami ’77Miami ’77Miami

Richard C. Spangler III, North Carolina ’71North Carolina ’71North Carolina

EDITORThomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98Central Michigan ’98Central Michigan

Associate Editor Steven M. Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06Virginia Tech ’06Virginia Tech

Associate DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Robert T. Umstadter, San Jose State ’05 San Jose State ’05 San Jose State

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTSarah Shepherd

CONTRIBUTORSPhyllis Bowie; Jay Langhammer; Erica Suding;

Christopher Ave; Zach Firquin

EDITORS EMERITUSErv Johnson, APR, Idaho ’53Idaho ’53IdahoRobert H. Kurz, Miami ’58Miami ’58Miami

The Beta Theta Pi, (USPS 052-000) offi cial magazine of Beta The-The Beta Theta Pi, (USPS 052-000) offi cial magazine of Beta The-The Beta Theta Pi,ta Pi Fraternity, is owned by the Fraternity, edited and published under the direction and control of its Board of Trustees, published Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring for $30 one-time pre-paid sub-scription. Periodical class postage paid at Oxford, Ohio, and addi-tional points of entry. Canada Post International Publications Mail (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 0397474. Copyright Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, 2007. Produced in the USA.

DEADLINESFall 2007 ...........................................................August 15Winter 2008 ................................................November 15Spring 2008 .................................................. February 15Summer 2008 ....................................................... May 15

FOUNDATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICEBrennan Hall5134 Bonham RoadP.O. Box 6277Oxford, Ohio 45056Tel: [email protected]

[From the Editor]

Postmaster: Send address changes to:

Beta Theta PiP.O. Box 6277

Oxford, OH 45056

Food for Thought

Illustration by Roger Warrick

Summer 2007 5

harm” on the United States. He and former Senator Sam Nunn are prime examples of “two men who understand the need to nurture coalitions before [such] crises strike,” Obama emphasizes.

It is pertinent to note that Sam Nunn is a member of Phi Delta Theta. It is well for Betas to remember that when [our] Fraternity is not available to university men, it is best to recommend that they join one of the other members of the Miami Triad, Phi Delt or Sigma Chi. I am pleased that my great-grandnephew is a Sig at Oregon State (which at present has no Beta chapter.) — Patrick Groff, Oregon ’50

THOUGHTS OF OWENUntiring servant. Bridge Builder. Cherished Friend. Owen Williams, Toronto ’50, was all of these and more. During the years I was privileged to serve with him on the Foundation Board, he was someone whose opinion I respected and whose friendship I valued. You had to admire him for his years of dedication and service and for his desire to see Beta Theta Pi continue to raise the bar. On the trips we made to Canada, he was the perfect host and regardless of location, he always greeted you with open arms and with excitement. It was easy to tell how much he valued his Fraternity and his Beta brothers. He will indeed be missed, but the Beta Spirit is stronger because of his example and certainly his contributions. – John Stebbins, Emory ’92

Like his beloved chapter, city and country, Owen was unafraid to be just what he was: free thinking, generous, grounded, evolved, cosmopolitan and devoted to others. I’ll never forget how he could be deadly serious about some Beta issue one minute and standing issue one minute and standing on his chair waiving his napkin on his chair waiving his napkin and cheering at a Convention and cheering at a Convention banquet the next. He was banquet the next. He was a rare treasure. I will miss him. a rare treasure. I will miss him. – Donald “Dipper” DiPaolo, Michigan ’78

Mistaken IdentityI enjoyed the latest issue of The Beta Theta Pi magazine; The Beta Theta Pi magazine; The Beta Theta Pihowever, I thought I would point out one mistake. On page fi ve there is a picture of the original administrative secretary turning over credentials to Fred Brower. You name the original as “Tom” Fey. It is actually Ralph Fey who was on the Board when I was. He and I were close friends. — Jim Johnson, Washington State ’50

Editor’s note: Thanks to all who caught this error and brought it to our attention. Of course, Ralph Fey, Miami ’40 was the fi rst administrative secretary. Brother Fey’s two sons, Tom ’68 and Doug ’71, are Miami Betas, as is his grandson, Brian ’00.

Justices ServedBesides John Marshall Harlan, Centre 1850 and William O. Douglas, Whitman ’20, who were the other Betas who served on the U.S. Supreme Court? — Andy Anderson, Cincinnati ’73

Editor’s note: The other four Betas who served on the U.S. Supreme Court include: William B. Woods, Western Reserve 1841 (1881-87); Horace H. Lurton, Cumberland 1867 (1910-14); Joseph R. Lamar, Bethany 1877/Washington and Lee 1878 (1911-16), and Willis Van de Vanter, DePauw 1881 (1911-37.) Harlan served from 1877 to 1911, and Douglas was on the Court from 1939 to 1975.

Nurturing CoalitionsIn his 2006 book, The Audacity of Hope, presidential candidate Barack Obama compliments Beta brother and U.S. Senator [Richard] Lugar, Denison ’54 as “one of the best examples” of present-day politicians who are aware of the need for the “diffi cult, methodical, vital and necessarily collaborative work of limiting the terrorists’ capacity to infl ict

[Letters to the Editor]ConversationsCongratulations to Tom Crawford, GMI-EMI ’92 and Weldon Moore, Texas-Arlington ’80 for submitting the winning responses to the “Secrecy in Beta Theta Pi” article. They each won a $50 gift certifi cate to Barnes & Noble Bookstore simply by responding online. Log on to www.thebetathetapi.org to enter this issue’s contest.

In case you missed it…The Spring 2007 issue attracted more readers to the website than ever before. The most popular articles were:Number of Readers 3,735 Secrecy in Beta Theta Pi Is it still relevant for the Fraternity?

1,890 Not Just a Catchphrase Profi le of ESPN’s Neil Everett, Oregon ’84

1,598 2006-07 Campus Leaders A list of undergraduates who lead by example

869 The “Valiant of Blacksburg” Coverage of the Virginia Tech reinstallation

6 The Beta Theta Pi

Director of Communications and Editor Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98 was elected president of the College Fraternity Editors Association (CFEA) on Saturday, May 19 at the Association’s annual meeting in Richmond, Va. Established in December 1923, CFEA is composed of fraternities and sororities committed to communicating the highest ideals of the Greek system and its achievements.

Olver served as CFEA treasurer (2004-07) and chairman of the Scholarship/Grant Committee (2005-07.) He was previously a director on the CFEA Board, Varner Committee chairman (twice) and Public Relations Committee chairman, and has been involved with CFEA since 2001. In May 2005, Olver’s professional responsibilities expanded to overseeing the communications department as director of communications.

Olver is the third member of Beta Theta Pi to lead the 83-year-old association. Francis Wayland Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883 served as CFEA’s sixth president (1932-33,) and L.E. (Erv) Johnson, Idaho ’53 held the post as well (1998-99.)

Olver Elected CFEA President

Loberg Named Inaugural CFEA Scholarship RecipientThe Board of Directors of the College Fraternity Editors Association established the CFEA Scholarship Program to provide fi nancial support to undergraduate members of Greek organizations who are pursuing degrees in communications-related fi elds (journalism, graphic design, public relations, broadcasting, etc.) Some 116 applications were received in 2007 and six undergraduate recipients were selected, including Jens H. Loberg, Minnesota ’08.

Majoring in communications studies and environmental geography, and active in the Boy Scouts of America, Loberg says, “My objective will always be to build bridges to span the tide.” He will receive a $500 scholarship for the 2007-08 academic year.

Trustees Host Alumni Appreciation DinnerOn Saturday, May 5, the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees hosted more than 120 Betas, Beta sweethearts and guests at the Muirfi eld Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio, for a Columbus area alumni appreciation dinner. The Board of Trustees was in Columbus for its spring meeting.

Dublin Mayor Marilee Chinnici Zuercher (sister of Joseph Chinnici, Ohio State’64) welcomed attendees and proclaimed it “Beta Theta Pi Men of Principle Day.” Following dinner, outgoing General Secretary David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67 was honored for his six years of service by The Ohio State University and the Theta Delta Chapter. Wright delivered a stirring Keynote address and provided an update on the State of the Fraternity.

[News & Notes]

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

Board of Trustees at Muirfi eldMembers of the Board of Trustees (left to right): President Tom Purinton, General Secretary David Wright, Vice President David Schmidt, General Treasurer Christopher Miller, Vice President John Conway, Vice President Charlie Warner, Vice President Ken Grispin and Vice President Joe Troncale.

Summer 2007 7

Fraternity’s Communications Efforts RecognizedBeta Theta Pi received seven awards at the

2007 College Fraternity Editors Association Awards Banquet, May 19. The gala event was held in the Shenandoah Room of the Omni Richmond Hotel in Richmond, Va., in conjunction with the CFEA Annual Conference.

Two fi rst place awards recognized publications improvement for the Fraternity’s “Go Beta” recruitment and expansion materials, and excellence in the newsletter category for The Wooglin Daily News, a publication provided to annual Convention attendees.

Four second place awards included honors for comprehensive media campaign (“Go Beta” recruitment and expansion materials), innovative handling of routine material (“Center Stage” – Betas in entertainment), cover design (winter 2006) and the critic’s choice cover design (spring 2006.)

A third place award for feature article layout recognized the design of “The Institute, Living the Change: The Power of The Institute for Men of Principle” (The Beta Theta Pi, summer 2006.)

NIC Executive Williamson to RetireAfter eight years at the leadership helm of the North-American Interfraternity Conference, Jon Williamson has announced his retirement as executive vice president effective August 1, 2007. Williamson began his tenure at the NIC in August 1999.

During Williamson’s tenure, he visited more than 200 colleges and universities and was part of countless fraternity conventions and leadership schools. In addition, he championed the implementation of standards within the fraternity industry, provided oversight to the implementation of Policy Governance® within the leadership structure of the NIC, actively contributed to the NIC’s legislative efforts and engaged in countless hours of conversations on behalf of the fraternity industry with national media, university administrators, parents and undergraduates.

Williamson joined the NIC after a distinguished career with the IRS. He is a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, as was his father and two of his three sons. He and his wife Laura reside in Zionsville, Ind., with their daughter Whitney, who will attend Indiana University in the fall.

The NIC is a trade association representing 69 international and national men’s fraternities, which includes 350,000 undergraduate members on more than 800 campuses in the United States and Canada. In addition, there are more than nine million alumni fraternity members.

The Hazel Hutchman Memorial Neuroscience Center & Neurosearch, Inc.

Working hard every day to blaze a path toward improving the lives of those with Parkinson’s Disease, movement disorders and Alzheimer’s disease through compassionate clinical care and clinical trails research.

Robert M. Hutchman MD, Michigan ’93R. Wayne Pickerell, Denver ’87

Ted Satyadi, UCLA ’03

We are honored to be a lead sponsor for the 2007 Dragon Classic Golf Tournament & join our brothers at the 168th General Convention in Orlando.

Let’s all have a memorable, fun and safe week in August!

FORE!!

19231 Victory Blvd.Suite 355 NorthReseda, CA 91335Phone: (818) 332-7986Fax: (818) 698-0443Email: [email protected]

www.neurosearch-usa.com

8 The Beta Theta Pi

[Books by Betas]MY MOTHER CAN BEAT UP YOUR FATHERDanny Langdon, Idaho ’61

A tribute to a widowed mother whose strength and love held her family together when so much could tear them apart.Paperback. 197 pages. US$19.95. PublishAmerica. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

REACHING: LOVE AFFAIRS WITH INDUSTRYRichard Muther, Wisconsin ’38

Richard Muther, now age 93, records the activities that led him to success beyond all expectations.Hardcover. 224 pages. US$19.95. Leathers Publishing. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

HOW TO PREVENT YOUR STROKEJ. David Spence, MD Western Ontario ’65

One of the world’s leading experts in stroke prevention offers life-saving advice that can reduce stroke by as much as 75 percent in high-risk people.Paperback. 218 pages. US$19.95. Vanderbilt University Press. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

MURDER ON THE SEA WOLF and OTHER SHORT STORIESRaymond Flanders, Colgate ’52

This collection of short stories ranges in topic from an unpredictable thriller to a far-fetched comedy.Paperback. 53 pages. US$12.95. Publish America. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

THE BUYER’S GUIDECharlie Stahl, Illinois ’71Illinois ’71Illinois

Never before has a comprehensive guide of Master-Planned Communities been available.Paperback. 484 pages. US$28.95. AuthorHouse. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

Additional Beta Books

Between 1995, when Mike Schmidt, Ohio’ 71 was Ohio’ 71 was Ohio’inducted into the Hall of Fame, and the dawn of the

recent “Steroid Era,” when baseball’s biggest names were as likely to appear before Congress as they were to play in the All-Star Game, a national pastime has devolved into a national punch line. The sad truth is that the 2005 and 2006 seasons may be remembered as much for the league’s scandals and blockbuster free-agent signings as they are for historic accomplishments on the fi eld. Something has gone horribly wrong with the game, and according to Schmidt, it’s time to do something about it. Clearing the Bases is a much-Clearing the Bases is a much-Clearing the Basesneeded call to arms by one of baseball’s most respected players. Drawing on his experiences as a third baseman, a manager and, most recently, a fan, Schmidt takes on everything from skyrocketing payrolls, callous owners and unapproachable players to infl ated statistics and, of course, ersatz home run kings. With bold and spirited counsel, Schmidt offers his own prescription for restoring integrity to the game and bringing baseball back, once and for all, to its rightful place.

Hardcover. 199 pages. US$24.95. HarperCollins. 2006.Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

Interested in learning more about these books? Visit www.thebetathetapi.org

Submit a Book for ReviewHave you recently published a book that you would like featured in “Books by Betas?” Send a signed copy of the book, a brief description of the work and a brief biography to: Steven M. Brylski, Associate Editor; 5134 Bonham Road, Oxford, Ohio 45056

NOW at www. thebetathetapi.org

Home About Magazine Audio Photos Publications Submit Content BetaThetaPi.org

Summer 2007 9

LEAVE YOUR

FEEDBACKHave you ever enjoyed a particular article or disagreed with a certain

author? Have you ever been curious to learn more than what was written?

Leaving feedback, provid-ing your opinion and asking questions has never been easier! Look for the com-ments link at the end of each online article. Tell Beta’s Broad Domain what YOU think.

Get the latest news from the General Fraternity on your computer.

Shepherding ChildrenChuck DeVet, Minnesota ’62 created the Minnesota ’62 created the MinnesotaHumanitarian Services for the Children of Vietnam (HSCV). Read more about this organization and how you can help.

Web Exclusive

LISTEN!

ISSUESSummer 2007Spring 2007 Winter 2007

Fall 2006

DEPARTMENTSAlumni News

Books by Betas Campus Life Center Stage Marching Along Mystic Shrine News & Notes Sports RoundUp

PODCAST

WHAT DO YOU THINKWhat advice would you give to new Administrative Secretary Judson Horras, Iowa State ’97? Each suggestion enters you for a $50 gift certifi cate to your local Barnes & Noble.

Search…

Alpha House, Beta’s fi rst licensed clothing vendor, can meet your customized needs in more than 100 items, including golf shirts, T-shirts, jerseys, fl eece vests and pullovers, sweatshirts, jackets, mesh shorts,

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10 The Beta Theta Pi

Dahlen has taken a position as executive vice president of IAG Research, the TV ad effectiveness ratings company. He will be responsible for strategic planning and growth of the fi rm’s newest division, the restaurant business group. Previously, Dahlen played an

instrumental role in developing the Subway “Jared” campaign while serving as worldwide account director and general manager at Publicis & Hal Riney in Chicago.

[Marching Along]Blakeslee, a fi nancial representative with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network-Columbia, has been appointed college unit director, in the Columbia, S.C., area. Blakeslee’s duties will include recruiting and training fi nancial representative interns,

mentoring interns and providing clients with the fi nancial services solutions offered through Northwestern Mutual.

Tooker was appointed chief executive offi cer of American Racing Equipment in Long Beach, California, on March 19. American Racing offers a complete line of more than 100 precision-crafted alloy wheel styles under fi ve different brand names. The company distributes more than 1.5 million wheels annually in some 22 countries on four continents. He accepted the job over several executive level assignments at Procter and Gamble, and the Dial Corporation.

Stephen L. tookerMiami ’82

R. Daniel DahlenOhio ’76

Nelson has been named winner of the 2007 World Food Prize, called the Nobel Prize for the food and agricultural world. Nelson, a professor in food sciences at Purdue University, invented a way to store mass quantities of processed foods so they could

be shipped and used at later dates. Before his inventions, food production facilities could only grow so much produce because it would spoil before it could be shipped and used. Now, it can be stored for more than a year and shipped all over the U.S. or the world to be used later, not just around harvest time.

Philip E. NelsonPurdue ’56

Stange was elected president and managing broker of NAI FMA Realty. He will be responsible for the fi nancial success of the Company and positioning it for continued growth and accomplishment through superior customer service. He has a broad knowledge

of fi nancial and operational issues in a variety of business situations. NAI FMA Realty is part of NAI Global, which is the world’s leading managed network of commercial real estate fi rms.

Drew D. StangeNebraska ’83

Barrett and his wife Betty were honored by the West Virginia University Foundation for their exceptional generosity, commitment and leadership, and for their proven record of outstanding civic and charitable devotion to the University. The Barretts have made gifts to WVU for 24 consecutive years and supported, both fi nancially and with gifts of time, University programs. In keeping with his philanthropic ideals, Barrett has taken an active role in the campaign to build a new alumni center.

Edgar O. BarrettWest Virginia ’52

Braden received the Frederick B. Snite Jr. Notre Dame Leadership award. Chosen by the Notre Dame faculty and student body, the award is presented to the student who demonstrates a commitment to the traditional MBA program, its students, faculty

and administration, presents a sense of purpose for other MBA students, and enhances the program through his/her actions. Braden recently completed his MBA from Notre Dame. His course of study followed three years of service to the Fraternity’s Administrative Offi ce as a director of operations and education, and as a leadership consultant.

R. Ethan BradenWillamette ’02

Andrews was selected to participate in an undergraduate fellowship program that educates students about terrorist threats directed at America and allied democracies around the world. Forty students were selected from around the U.S. to participate in a unique

fellowship program offered through the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy (FDD.) The year-long fellowship begins with a trip to Israel in August. In Israel, the students will be based at Tel Aviv University and will hear presentations from military, intelligence and political offi cials, as well as academic experts in the fi eld of terrorism. The fellows will also hear lectures from the ambassadors of India, Jordan, Turkey and the United States.

Joseph C. AndrewsWilliam & Mary ’08

Miserendino earned his doctor of philosophy degree from California Institute of Technology in electrical engineering. His thesis work will allow for future advances in the fi eld of microfl uidics by providing a method of connecting multiple, independent microfl uidic

devices without leaks or large-scale tubing.

Scott B. MiserendinoJohns Hopkins ’02Johns Hopkins ’02Johns Hopkins

Bryant N. BlakesleeClemson ’06

Summer 2007 11

[Alumni News]

Tell Us About Your Recent News!Visit www.thebetathetapi.org and click “Submit Content” or send a photo and brief description to [email protected].

Duke Gathering in GeorgiaDuke alumni from the 1950s and early 1960s gathered in Savannah, Ga., from all across the U.S. on May 3. The Fifties group convened with 44 Gamma Rho alumni and their Beta Sweethearts. They enjoyed a relaxing weekend that included city tours, Beta songs and terrifi c food. Discussions centered around the past, but also on the future; specifi cally helping the undergraduate chapter make positive change.

Wittenberg Alumni DinnerWittenberg’s annual alumni dinner brought more than 100 alumni, parents and University administrators to the Springfi eld, Ohio, chapter house. The beautiful spring day was perfect and guests were treated to a festive banquet. Chapter President Daniel Zeleznik ’09 presented a state of the Chapter address that was met with great enthusiasm.

Cincinnati Pledge Class of 1949The pledge class of 1949 from the University of Cincinnati spent three days together in Naples, Fla., during the fi rst week of February. Some of the wives who attended fi rst met their husbands while undergraduates and have enjoyed their time with Beta as well.

Beta Theta Pi Board of Trustees Fall MeetingOctober 27, 2007 ~ Boston, Massachusetts

Including…

Boston Area Beta Alumni and GuestsAppreciation Reception & Dinner

October 27, 2007 ~ 6:00 p.m.Anthony’s Pier 4 Restaurant

Hosted by the Board of Trustees

General Fraternity President Dr. P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63 ~ Evening Emcee

Featuring the General Secretary’s “State of the Fraternity” address,

recognition of current and long-time Betaalumni volunteers, and recognition of all

Fraternal 50s and Fraternal 25s in attendance.

For more information, please contact the Administrative Offi ce at 800-800-BETA or Foundation Associate Director Martin Cobb

at [email protected]@betathetapi.orgbetathetapi.org. Details and invitations forthcoming to all area alumni in September 2007.Nebraska Reunion after 50 years

After 50 years since graduating from the University of Nebraska, fi ve alumni of the Alpha Tau Chapter reunited to renew friendships and share life experiences. The brothers have maintained strong ties with one another and with the Fraternity that brought them together. They met on June 9 in the greater Omaha metropolitan area.

From left to right: Philip Hendrickson ’56, Lowell Lumley ’54, Jack Shives ’54, Henry Meier ’53, El Bourgraf ’54, Bill Shoemaker ’53, W. Claine Reesey ’53 and Lou Newton ’53.

From left to right: George Madsen ’57, Ronald Schneider ’57, William Bedwell ’57, Dennis Brune ’58 and Soren Jensen ’58


Ned Brower, Southern Methodist ’98, and Rooney released their fi rst album in four years, Calling the World, on July 17. The Los Angeles power pop band’s 2003 debut sold more than 400,000 copies and three attempts were made to record a follow-up. Unsatisfi ed with newly recorded material, the group started over and wrote new songs over a four-week period before returning to the studio. Calling the World reveals Calling the World reveals Calling the WorldRooney’s new sound, with music reminiscent of the Cars, Yes, Cheap Trick, Culture Club, Weezer and Def Leppard, among others. The group recently toured with Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas and performed fi rst single “When Did Your Heart Go Missing?” during a June 23rd

appearance on Conan O’Brien’s show. To sample songs from the new CD and check Rooney’s touring schedule, go to the group’s website: www.rooney-band.com.

[Center Stage]Beta StarsTommy Reid

Brian White, Dartmouth ’95, has become one of Hollywood’s busiest actors with a number of projects planned for the future. Two current fi lms now out on DVD are Stomp the Yard and Daddy’s Little Girls. In Stomp the Yard, he has fi fth billing and plays step master Sylvester for fi ctitious Theta Nu Theta fraternity. White is prominently featured on the DVD behind-the-scenes interviews on the making of the fi lm. In the last few years, he appeared in 10 episodes of the popular FX drama The Shield and was in two 2007 episodes of Ghost Whisperer. He is

in pre-production as executive producer/actor in Stopping Power and has been on the set as Stopping Power and has been on the set as Stopping Powerproducer/actor in The Trunk. Other new fi lms in the works for 2008 include The Game Plan, King of the Avenue and Hollywood Chaos.

Brian White

Tommy Reid, Ohio State ’96, (above left with Eddie George) has produced and directed 7-10 Split, his fi rst fi lm, which reaches theaters this fall. His sister, actress Tara Reid, co-produced the comedy and has a role in the fi lm. The plot focuses on an actor who discovers he is a bowling prodigy and joins the pro tour. Reid has a brief role in the fi lm as a corporate executive and his sister is the girlfriend of the actor-turned-bowler.

Ned Brower

Walter Massey, MIT ’51, was given the Award of Excellence by the Montreal chapter of the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Theatre and Radio Artists on June 9. A longtime resident of Montreal, he has had a distinguished career on the Broadway stage and in fi lms. He played President Taft in the 2005 fi lm The Greatest Game Ever Played, has done much voice-over animation work in such Canadian television shows as Arthur and was in Canadian Arthur and was in Canadian ArthurTV series Lassie from 1997 to 1999. Massey was co-founder of the King’s Theatre in Prince Edward Island as well as the Piggery Theatre and the Playwrights’ Workshop.

Edward Faulkner, Virginia ’52, was honored by the Williamsburg Film Festival in March for his motion picture career in Westerns. As an actor, he was featured in six of John Wayne’s biggest movies: McLintock, The Green Berets, Hellfi ghters, The Undefeated, Chisum and Rio Lobo. Those fi lms have been released on DVD to celebrate Wayne’s 100th birthday. After appearing in numerous television series and occasional fi lms the next several decades, he retired from acting in 1994 and became manager of a large time-share complex. Faulkner previously worked as a marketing executive for the (Lawrence) Welk Group.

Griffi n House, Miami ’02, has gained rave reviews as a singer-songwriter over the last several years. In fact, VH1 Senior Vice President Bill Flanagan called him one of the fi ve best emerging songwriters in the U.S. This spring, several songs from his 2004 album/CD Lost and Found were Lost and Found were Lost and Foundfeatured on network TV shows. “To You Someday” was on the May 6 episode of ABC-TV’s Brothers and Sisters and “New Day” was part of the May 18 and Sisters and “New Day” was part of the May 18 and Sistersepisode of the Fox hit Standoff. Earlier this year, he Standoff. Earlier this year, he Standoffsang the national anthem at a Los Angeles Lakers game and his video of “Waterfall” can be seen on his website www.griffi nhousemusic.com. House began a national tour in April so check his touring schedule on the website.

Max Morath, Colorado ’47, has been featured on Ragtime to the Max, a 13-week, one-hour series on WFMT radio in Chicago and nationally through the WFMT Radio Network. The popular singer-pianist has written “The Road to Ragtime” and “The NPR’s Curious Listener’s Guide to Popular Standards”, which are available online. Five of his CDs are still available: Living a Ragtime Life, Real American Folk Songs, double album Presenting That Celebrated Maestro/Oh Play That Thing, The Ragtime Era and One for the Road. Check his website at www.maxmorath.com.

Joseph Oliver, Southern California ’02, has served as a producer and unit production manager on several TV series on MyNetwork. His Saints & Sinners crime drama premiered in December 2006 as a Wednesday night prime time show and ran until March. His current nighttime soap opera/drama is now in a Wednesday night MyNetwork slot and is scheduled to be on the air until the fall. Oliver was also involved in the production of 2006 TV series, Fashion House.

Summer 2007 13

Alas, true stardom was not to be. Group members, three of them Betas, graduated and went their separate ways.

But today, The Trend is making a comeback.

Several of the band’s songs, penned by co-founder John T. McMullan, Missouri ’85, have been re-released in power pop compilation CDs, attracting growing attention in the underground music scene. This spring, McMullan and his bandmates reunited and played to a packed house in a Nashville club. Among the cheering fans: one-time University of Missouri classmate and fellow Kennett, Mo., native Sheryl Crow.

“The other night just brought back to me what a cool band they were,” said Crow, speaking recently between recording sessions for her yet-to-be-released album.

twenty-fi ve years ago, a Missouri pop band with thick Beta roots was ready to hit

the big time.

The Trend, made up of four University of Missouri students and one high schooler, had played the University Greek Week fi nale to rave reviews. Area radio stations began playing their songs, packed with tight harmonies, buzzy guitars and a British Invasion backbeat. Their album, The Trend is In, made Billboard Magazine’s “Top Album Billboard Magazine’s “Top Album BillboardPicks,” fueled by hook-laden tunes like “(I Feel Like A) Dictionary” and “Girl at the Holiday Inn.” MTV’s Kurt Loder called. Talk of a record deal followed.

And McMullen’s eponymous solo album (www.johnmcmullan.com) recently made its debut on iTunes.

“Because of the compilation CDs, a whole lot more people know about us now than when we played in college,” said McMullan, now a partner in a Kennett law fi rm.

The Trend might never have gotten off the ground were it not for McMullan’s Beta ties. Originally the Band had another bass player, but he quit the group only four days before their fi rst big concert appearance. McMullan had to a fi nd a bass player fast. He asked around the chapter house and heard that Bill Joslyn, a sophomore at the time, could play bass.

“I thought I’d talk to this guy, and tell him what kind of bind we were in, and see if he’d help a brother,” McMullan recalled. “And, in one of those weird instances

where everything works out perfectly, he was exactly what we needed.”

Despite the successful performance and radio airplay that they got, their youthful dreams of music careers never materialized. Joslyn is a brewmaster in St.

Louis. Michael Astrachan ’88 owns an advertising fi rm in Kansas City. Lead singer Matt Collier is an executive with a Kansas City manufacturer, and drummer Brian Mitchell ’78 owns a drugstore in Kennett.

But that’s no knock on their music, according to Crow.

McMullan “wrote such clever songs, songs about places I used to haunt, songs like ‘She’s a Real Cheap Thrill’ and ‘Girl at the Holiday Inn,’ with such clever songwriting hooks,” she said.

“They probably could have made it (in music), but they went in different directions.”

Now, however, music is once again a destination for the group’s members.

More concerts are being planned. The group expects to reissue its 1982 album on CD, and more Trend material is slated for release in power-pop compilation CDs. McMullan is nearly fi nished writing material for a second solo album.

“We all get along very well, and whenever we get together it completely takes us back to the best of our times,” McMullan says. “The underground market for our music has grown enough for us almost to be the band we always wanted to be.” — Christopher Ave, Missouri ’86

where everything works out perfectly, he was exactly what we needed.”

Despite the successful performance and radio airplay that they got, their youthful dreams of music careers never materialized. Joslyn is a brewmaster in St.


MacGregor H. Hill, William & Mary’04, assumed responsibilities as director of operations and education for Area 2. His responsibilities include leadership consultant management, volunteer support, risk management, curriculum and logistics for retreats, project management for the Men of Principle initiative and implementation of the Fraternity’s Standard Chapter Operating Expectationsfor half of the Fraternity’s chapters and colonies. Hill previously served as the associate director of communications and as a leadership consultant for the Northeast.

New Staff

Sue Kraft-Fussell, was hired as the second director of leadership development. She joins Ryan King, Southern Illinois ’01, in Southern Illinois ’01, in Southern Illinois

the promotion, development, execution and growth of General Fraternity educational programming, logistics and facilitator

management. Previously, Kraft-Fussell played an integral role as the executive director of the Association of Fraternity Advisors and AFA Foundation. She was the recipient of the Fraternity’s

Interfraternalism Recognition award in 2003.

New Staff

Robert T. Umstadter, San Jose State ’05, joined the Communications Department as the associate director. His primary responsibilities involve video production for convention, leadership programs, recruitment and General Fraternity marketing. Umstadter is charged with preparing General Fraternity news releases, creating material for usage on the Fraternity’s websites and myriad other communications tasks.

HEExpectationsStaff Changes

Expectations

Summer 2007 15

Matthew J. Brawner, Truman State ’07, served as chapter president and IFC president. In 2006, he was awarded the Jerry M. Blesch General Secretary’s Leadership Award and he received the NIC Award of Distinction in the spring of 2007. He received his bachelor of arts in biology along with a minor in psychology.

Bradley J. Brown, Oklahoma ’07, served as

chapter president for Beta Theta Pi’s largest chapter with more than 200 active

members. In 2007, he received the Letzeiser Award for outstanding

seniors. The University of Oklahoma also

recognized Brown with the Big Man on Campus

award. He graduated cum laude and Phi Beta

Kappa with a bachelor of arts in letters.

David M. Campbell, Virginia Tech ’07, served as colony and chapter president during Alpha Phi’s chartering process. In 2007, the Offi ce of Fraternity and Sorority Life at Virginia Tech presented him the Fraternity President of the Year award. Campbell received a bachelor of arts in political science.

Joshua L. Machicek, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’06, served Christi ’06, served Christias chapter president and IFC president. In 2006, he was voted homecoming king by his undergraduate peers. Machicek received a bachelor of science degree in marine biology in December 2006.

Consultants serve the Fraternity for two years as paid representatives who work closely with chapters in the areas of leadership, scholarship, recruitment, risk management, alumni relations and new member education. They are selected because of their high internal motivation, their love of the Fraternity and an ability to affect people in a positive way. Traveling to and from universities through North America is a grueling task and, in most instances, consultants travel more than 20,000 miles a year to visit and measure the progress of each chapter.

Four new leadership consultants have been hired to work on behalf of the General Fraternity. They have each proven their leadership abilities and love for Beta Theta Pi throughout their undergraduate tenures.

New Leadership Consultants


The

MODESTA P P R O A C H

Ralph N. Fey, Miami ’40 First Administrative Secretary

TheThe

Administrative Secretary

Summer 2007 17

A P P R O A C H

For Judson A. Horras, For Judson A. Horras, Iowa State Iowa State ’97, a certain ’97, a certain humbleness comes very naturally. It is the kind of attitude, or a lack thereof, which creates an easy “get-to-know-you” type of relationship. You easy “get-to-know-you” type of relationship. You might not expect this from a top-level executive at one of the most prestigious associations of its kind. However, Horras would prefer to stay behind the scenes than in front, working hard to behind the scenes than in front, working hard to make others’ jobs easier and more effi cient. He is notorious for being just a bit camera shy and was a little wary of making this article anything more than a short informational piece.

When he was told that this might receive cover story treatment, he gently suggested a different story treatment, he gently suggested a different approach.

Unfortunately for him, and perhaps fortunately for for The Beta Theta PiThe Beta Theta Pi, the readers want to know , the readers want to know more about him. Horras will probably groan as he receives his copy. The next day he’ll ask to speak with the writer and then he’ll chuckle about the entire thing. Typical modesty.

At a staff meeting when the appointment of a new administrative secretary was offi cially to be new administrative secretary was offi cially to be announced, the atmosphere was electric. The entire process had been a well-guarded secret for months and, fi nally, everyone would learn of his or her new boss. It was easy to fi gure who his or her new boss. It was easy to fi gure who it might be simply from the look on Jud’s face. There was joy shining from behind smiling eyes.

Jud Horras was announced as Administrative Secretary.

Applause rose quickly, excitement spilling across Applause rose quickly, excitement spilling across the meeting room. Horras accepted the gesture, and stood bashfully at the front with his hands raised, as if hoping this would somehow quiet the group. It only encouraged them further. They the group. It only encouraged them further. They were happy to know that their new boss was so genuinely interested in the Fraternity and that he would take the reins from another equally he would take the reins from another equally loveable leader, Steve Becker, Florida ’69.

“This really hasn’t hit me yet,” Jud asserted once the group had quieted. the group had quieted.

Shortly thereafter Jonathan Brant, Miami ’75 led Miami ’75 led Miamia blessing for the new Administrative Secretary. Only one set of eyes remained open through Only one set of eyes remained open through the prayer: Jud’s. He scanned the room slowly and seemed to seize hold of new memories with every quiet glance. It was an interesting sight, every quiet glance. It was an interesting sight, watching him carefully place this moment away in the storage of his mind. He wiped at the side of his nose where a few tearlets had trickled. He probably didn’t want anyone to worry for him.probably didn’t want anyone to worry for him.

Of course, there is nothing about which to be worried. Horras is entering the 10th year of his tenure with the Administrative Offi ce. of his tenure with the Administrative Offi ce. Immediately following graduation in 1997, he joined the ranks of the offi ce staff as an

Only one set of eyes remained open through Only one set of eyes remained open through the prayer: Jud’s. He scanned the room slowly and seemed to seize hold of new memories with every quiet glance. It was an interesting sight, every quiet glance. It was an interesting sight, watching him carefully place this moment away in the storage of his mind. He wiped at the side of his nose where a few tearlets had trickled. He probably didn’t want anyone to worry for him.probably didn’t want anyone to worry for him.

Of course, there is nothing about which to be worried. Horras is entering the 10of his tenure with the Administrative Offi ce. of his tenure with the Administrative Offi ce. Immediately following graduation in 1997, he joined the ranks of the offi ce staff as an

He scanned the

room slowly

and seemed to

seize hold of

new memories

with every quiet

glance. It was an

interes ng sight,

watching him

carefully place this

moment away in

his mind.

education consultant. Soon he found himself education consultant. Soon he found himself as the director of recruitment (1998-2000), director of chapter operations (2000-04) and most recently as director of chapter and most recently as director of chapter services (2004-07). He is the fi rst modern administrative secretary to start with Beta at an entry level position. Therefore, he understands the challenges associated with a understands the challenges associated with a number of positions.

“When I was an undergraduate, I didn’t even know it was an option to work here,” he laughs. know it was an option to work here,” he laughs. “At the time, an education consultant could only visit the chapter once every three years. I decided to apply when the opportunity presented decided to apply when the opportunity presented itself and met everyone in the offi ce for the fi rst time during my interview.”

Now 10 years later, Horras fi nds himself in a Now 10 years later, Horras fi nds himself in a different sort of interview, explaining what he believes his position with the Fraternity to mean.His ultimate goal for Beta Theta Pi is ambitious.

“By nature I’m a pusher. I want to build, move and grow with Beta Theta Pi. I want brothers to have the same feeling about the brothers to have the same feeling about the entire organization that they have about their own chapter. I want us to be purposeful and connected.”

To accomplish this, it starts with people.

“I realize that I play a role in bringing together all the moving parts,” he begins, “but I want all the moving parts,” he begins, “but I want people to know that they aren’t working with the Administrative Offi ce or the General Fraternity. They are working with Jud, Adam, Joe, Sarah, They are working with Jud, Adam, Joe, Sarah, Tom, etc. They are working with people who care for them and want them to succeed.”

He continues, “[I believe we should] recruit the He continues, “[I believe we should] recruit the best. Train them. Allow them to do their job and allow them to love their job.”

With his own family to help support him, Horras With his own family to help support him, Horras has been thankful for his wife and daughter.

“[My wife] Kara was nothing short of phenomenal “[My wife] Kara was nothing short of phenomenal through her encouragement. It sounds cliché, but she is the reason I am here. There is a difference between a wife who tolerates and one who supports. She is certainly supportive.”supports. She is certainly supportive.”

“In a way, we have a Norman Rockwell-esque type life right now. Nice home, beautiful family, incredible job, And there isn’t a group of people incredible job, And there isn’t a group of people I’d rather raise my daughter around than the Betas she will surely meet in her life.”

Under his leadership, the Offi ce will develop and mature, continuing inauspiciously to model the way for association support staffs.

While the approach may be modest, it continues to produce fantastic results. – S. Brylski

education consultant. Soon he found himself education consultant. Soon he found himself as the director of recruitment (1998-2000), director of chapter operations (2000-04) and most recently as director of chapter and most recently as director of chapter services (2004-07). He is the fi rst modern administrative secretary to start with Beta

understands the challenges associated with a understands the challenges associated with a

“When I was an undergraduate, I didn’t even Judson A. HorrasIowa State ’97

Sports Roundup


Sports Roundup

Finsterwald at the PGA held at Miami Valley Coun-try Club in Dayton, Ohio.

[Sports RoundupSports RoundUpSports Roundup]

Golf LegendThe Memorial Golf Tournament is themed each year around a person who has contributed to the game of golf. This was Jack Nicklaus’ idea as a contribution to perpetuating the achievements of the game’s greatest individuals.

The honoree is selected from the Captains Club, a group of statesmen who act independently of the tournament organization but who also advise on player invitations and the conduct of the event generally. Members of the Captains Club include George H.W. Bush, Sean Connery, Gary Player and former LPGA Commissioner Charles S. Mechem Jr., Miami ’52.Miami ’52.Miami

Dow H. Finsterwald Sr., Ohio ’52 was selected as a 2007 honoree, along with Louise Suggs, one of the original 13 founders of the LPGA and member of the fi rst class elected into the LPGA Hall of Fame.

Born September 6, 1929, in Athens, Ohio, Finsterwald was a renowned perfectionist from tee to green. Winner of the 1958 PGA Championship under medal play and runner up in the 1957 PGA Championship contested as match play, Finsterwald won 12 PGA Tour events between 1955 and 1963.

Known for his superb short game and putting touch, he was one of the most consistent players on the Tour in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He fi nished fi fth or better more than 50 times in his career.

Finsterwald played on four Ryder Cup teams from 1957-61 and was the non-playing captain of the 1977 team. He won the Vardon Trophy in 1957 – awarded to the tour professional with the lowest adjusted scoring average. In 1958, he was honored as PGA Golfer of the Year. Finsterwald fi nished in money in 72 consecutive tournaments – second at the time only to Byron Nelson’s 113 consecutive cuts. He ranks fi fth today behind Tiger Woods, Nelson, Nicklaus and Hale Irwin.

At the 1962 Masters, Finsterwald and Player lost one of the most epic battles in golf history when they dueled in a playoff with eventual winner Arnold Palmer.

Finsterwald served as director of golf at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo., for 28 years. He simultaneously served as PGA vice-president from 1976-78, and on the USGA Rules of Golf committee from 1979-81.

Today he lives in Orlando during the winter and Colorado Springs during the summer with his wife, Linda. They have three sons and a daughter. His middle son, Dow Jr., is head pro at the Colonial Country Club in Ft. Worth, Texas, site of the Bank of America Colonial.

Dow H. Finsterwald Sr.Ohio ’52

PGA Tour Wins1955 (1) Fort Wayne Invitational

1955 (1) Bristish Columbia Open

1956 (1) Carling Open Invitational

1957 (1) Tucson Open

1958 (2) PGA Championship, Utah Open Invitational

1959 (3) Greater Greensboro Open, Carling Open Invitational, Kansas City Open Invitational

1960 (2) Los Angeles Open, Greater New Orleans Open Invitational

1963 (1) “500” Festival Open Invitational

Sports RoundupSports Roundup

Summer 2007 19

GOLFA leading player for Northwestern was Jonathan Bowers ’10, who averaged 75.6 through 35 rounds and played in the Big Ten and NCAA Central Region meets. Among his top fi nishes were fourth place (222) at the Big Ten/Pac-10 Challenge, seventh (221) at the Gopher Invitational, 10th

place (216, including a 70) at the Fighting Illini Invitational and 14th at the Kepler Invitational. David Lipsky ’10 was also on the Wildcats squad. Skip Clasper, Maryland ’07, shot Maryland ’07, shot Maryland76.7 through 18 rounds, tied for 21st at the Cavalier Classic and played in the NCAA East Regional. Seeing action for Florida Atlantic was Will Cottle ’09.

Serving as captain of the Truman State team was Jesse Helms ’07, who averaged 75.9 over 21 rounds. He won the Quincy Invitational (69-70), tied for eighth at the Washburn and Missouri Southern meets and placed 12th at the MIAA tournament. Matt Rhodes ’10 averaged 80.7 for 10 rounds and was 30th at the MIAA meet.

Raffi Diehl-Simel, Emory ’10, played in the NCAA Division Emory ’10, played in the NCAA Division EmoryIII meet and tied for 81st (320.) He tied for 10th at the UAA meet and averaged 77.5 over 16 rounds. Teammate Patrick Cohn ’09 also saw action.

DePauw captain Jordan Voss ’07 earned All-SCAC honors after tying for second at the SCAC meet. He averaged 77.1 over 18 rounds and had a team-best 67 at the Camp LeJeune Intercollegiate. Danny Stern ’09 also saw action.

Tying for 29th at the ODAC meet was Rob Shrader, Hampden Sydney ’08, who averaged 79.15 over 20 rounds Hampden Sydney ’08, who averaged 79.15 over 20 rounds Hampden Sydney(low of 71.) Playing as regulars for Knox were Nolan Scanlan ’07 (82.73 over 11 rounds) and Bryce Goodman ’10. James Hlavecek ‘07 averaged 77.5 for Colgate and tied for 17th at the Binghamton Invitational.

Sports RoundupOther undergraduates on the links included regular David Sports RoundupSports RoundupDriscoll, Sports RoundupSports RoundupKenyonSports RoundupSports Roundup ’08; Tanner Waage, Sports RoundupSports RoundupSouth Dakota Sports RoundupSports Roundup’10; Sports RoundupSports RoundupCody Clouse, Sports RoundupSports RoundupHanoverSports RoundupSports Roundup ’09; Charlie Munzig, Sports RoundupSports RoundupHanoverSports Roundup ’09; Charlie Munzig, Sports RoundupHanoverSports RoundupSports RoundupWesleyanSports RoundupSports Roundup ’07, Sports Roundupand the Sports Roundupand the Sports RoundupWestminsterSports RoundupWestminsterSports Roundup duo of Bobby Barton ’07 and Scott Sports Roundup duo of Bobby Barton ’07 and Scott Sports RoundupWestminster duo of Bobby Barton ’07 and Scott WestminsterSports RoundupWestminsterSports Roundup duo of Bobby Barton ’07 and Scott Sports RoundupWestminsterSports RoundupSwindler ’07.

TENNISEarning All-Big West Conference fi rst team honors in both singles and doubles was Cal Poly second year captain Matt Baca ’07, who had a 20-12 record in doubles and 14-14 in singles play. Winning runner-up honors at #1 doubles for Emory during the NCAA Division III championship was Yoji Masuoka ’07. He also helped his squad to a third place fi nish at the ITA national indoor meet. His singles mark was 13-8 at #2 singles and he was 17-7 in doubles play. Teammate Lee Friedman ’09 was 9-2 in doubles and 3-0 in singles. Joe Kane, Missouri-Kansas City ’07, was a regular at #3 doubles and #5 singles.City ’07, was a regular at #3 doubles and #5 singles.City

Four Betas were solid players for Wabash. Co-captain Jay Horrey ’08 won All-NCAC honors in singles (18-11) and doubles (23-11.) Sean Clerget ’09 posted marks of 17-8 in singles and 16-13 in doubles. Adrian Starnes ’07 and Dan Petrie ’07 paired together and fi nished 16-13 in doubles.

Other players on the court were the Puget Sound #1 doubles team of Jamie Hosmer ’09 and Sam McCullugh ’09; Michael Frank, Wesleyan ’08 (8-7 in singles;) Eric Kitchell, DePauw ’09, and George Aloupas, DePauw ’09, and George Aloupas, DePauw Hampden Sydney ’08.Hampden Sydney ’08.Hampden Sydney

TRACK & FIELDAfter transferring from Texas-Arlington, javelin thrower Michael Cast, Texas Tech ’08, placed third in the event (201’11”) at the Big 12 Conference outdoor meet. Earlier in the season, he set a career best of 207’3” in a fourth place fi nish at the Drake Relays and placed second (203’8”) at

the TCU Invitational. John Peate ’08 was the top 3000-meter steeplechase runner for Southern California, setting a personal best

Jonathan BowersNorthwestern ’10

Matt BacaCal Poly ’07

Michael CastTexas Tech ’08

Sports Roundup


Sports RoundupSports Roundupof 9:20.79 (10Sports RoundupSports RoundupthSports RoundupSports Roundup best in school history) at the USC/UCLA Sports RoundupSports Roundupdual meet. He also ran the Trojans’ second best 300-meter Sports RoundupSports Rounduptime (9:01.83), a best time of 4:05.19 over 1500 meters and Sports Rounduphad the second best 5000-meter time (15:29.27.) Sports Rounduphad the second best 5000-meter time (15:29.27.) Sports RoundupDavid Eischeid, Colorado State ’09 was on the 400-meter relay that placed second at the Mountain West Conference outdoor meet. He was the squad’s top long jumper (22’5”) and reached 42’6” in the triple jump. Placing 15th in the javelin (170’) at the Big 12 meet was Ben Stafford, Missouri’08, and Ibrahim Niankara, Oklahoma State ’07, ran again.

Jonathan “Skip” Gilson ’08 of North Dakota placed third at 5000 meters (15:40.78) during the North Central Conference outdoor meet and was sixth in NCC indoor mile. Matthew Gerszewski ’08 placed third in the NCC indoor 800-meter run (1:54.) Both Gilson and Gerszewski were named to the NCC Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll.

Four Wabash undergraduates placed at North Coast Athletic Conference meets. At the NCAC indoor meet, Bart Banach ’07 won the 400-meter run and was on the winning 1600-meter relay and second place 800 relay teams. During the outdoor NCAC meet, he won the 100-meter dash and was on the fourth place 400 relay. Andrew Rode ’09 won the outdoor NCAC high jump and was fourth at the indoor meet. Brent Banach ’09 was on the fourth place outdoor 400-meter relay and Justin Sparks ’08 was fourth in the hammer throw.

Matt Savary, Stevens ’07, set a school record and personal best 400-meter time (48.91) at the ECAC Division III outdoor meet. Matt Reihl ’09 was the squad’s top javelin thrower.

Hanover distance runner Mike McElrath ’07 ran on the Hanover distance runner Mike McElrath ’07 ran on the Hanoverwinning 100-meter relay at the Hanover Invitational. McElrath took fourth place in the 400-meter relay with teammate Bobby Smart ’09 at the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference meet.

Running on the DePauw third place 400-meter relay at the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference meet was David Araiza ’07.

Phil Keith, Lawrence ‘07, placed fourth in the MWC steeplechase and won the school’s Charles Pond Award for all-around ability in two sports (track, cross country) and for his sportsmanship, school spirit and scholarship. Also competing at the MWC meet were Mark Sprtel ‘10 (eighth in the 800) and Mike McCain ‘10 (15th in the steeplechase.)

Bill Horn, Denison ’10, placed second in the pole vault (14’1 ¼”) and competed alongside teammate Matt Timmerman ’10. Tyler Byrne ’09 of Wesleyan was second in the triple jump at the indoor Cardinal Invitational and Newman Hoffman ’09 threw the shot put.

BASEBALLSports RoundupBlaise Milburn, Sports RoundupSports RoundupKenyonSports RoundupSports Roundup ’07, concluded his career as the Sports RoundupSports Rounduptop hitter (.394) in school history and saw action at fi rst Sports Roundupbase, third base and designated hitter. He earned All-NCAC

Sports Roundupbase, third base and designated hitter. He earned All-NCAC

Sports Roundupsecond team selection after batting .435 (30 of 69) with a team high 10 doubles and 21 runs batted in. Nate Fedor ’09 had a 3-2 mound record in 10 games.

Troy Testerman ’07 posted a 4-2 record with 48 strikeouts in 30.1 innings for Denison. Pitcher Patrick Henry, DePauw’08, appeared in eight contests. Eric McCormick ’07 started 35 games for Stevens and hit .245 (24 of 98) with 19 runs.

The Westminster team included fi ve undergraduate Westminster team included fi ve undergraduate Westminstermembers. Infi elder Joe Hickey ’09 hit .270 (27 of 100) with 20 runs. Batting .290 as a backup was catcher Eric Brueckner ’07. Others were outfi elder Mark Scholl ’06, pitcher Brian Kosteck ’07 (2-3 in 10 games) and fi rst baseman George Carnahan ’09.

The Knox team also featured fi ve Betas: outfi elder Logan Schroeder ’07 (.297), catcher George Nicholson ’10 (22 starts), pitcher Aaron Juarez ’10 (14 games), pitcher Nick Morris ’07 and outfi elder Joey Graeff ’10.

Hanover included pitcher Hanover included pitcher HanoverGreg Gobel ’07 (2-3 mark in 11 games) and outfi elder Brooks Kieres ’08 (12 games.) Batting .326 (14 of 43) for Wesleyan was infi elder Graham Douds ’08 and teammate Charlie Munzig ’07 pitched in 10 contests.

RUGBYLeading Cal-Berkeley to a 25-1 record and a fourth straight national title were 30 undergraduate members. Following the 37-7 championship victory over BYU, co-captain Chase Brogan ’07 was named Muscle Milk’s California Student-Athlete of the Week. He and fi ve other players were honored by the school as scholar-athletes: Matt Bush ’09, Pat Castles ’07, Ross Kilroy ’09, Andrew Mase ’10 and Nick Yancey ’08. Chris Gurecki ’07 scored twice in the title game and other starters included Louis Stanfi ll ’07 and Joe Welch ’07. Cal-Berkeley’s only loss of the season was to Old Mission Bay, the Rugby Super League champion, which featured Jake Stanfi ll, Cal-Berkeley ’06. Cal-Berkeley ’06. Cal-Berkeley ’

The Yale squad included Paul-Harvey Weiner ’07 and James Pollack ’09.

Chase BroganCal-Berkeley ’07

Sports RoundupSports Roundup

Summer 2007 21

LACROSSESports RoundupThirty-two Betas led Sports RoundupSports RoundupWesleyanSports RoundupSports Roundup to an 18-3 record and the Sports RoundupSports RoundupNCAA Division III semi-fi nals. Spike Malangone ’09 led with Sports Roundup90 ground balls and won All-American second team and All-

Sports Roundup90 ground balls and won All-American second team and All-

Sports RoundupNESCAC fi rst team honors. All-American third team goalie Charlie Congleton ’07 posted 217 saves and 75 ground balls. He was sixth nationally with a 65.4 save percentage and seventh with a 5.97 GAA. Congleton was chosen for the DIII North-South All-Star Game with co-captain Mike Hines ’07, who scored 25 goals and 16 assists on the way to All-American honorable mention. Attack Russ Follansbee ’09 gained All-American mention and All-NESCAC fi rst team selection. He scored 23 goals (including seven game winners) and 19 assists.

Matt Burke ’07 won Wesleyan’s Roger Maynard Memorial Award as Outstanding Senior Male Scholar-Athlete and had 50 ground balls. The team’s top scorer was Jason Ben-Eliyahu who had 38 goals and 19 assists. Among other good scorers were Jon Killeen ’10 (26 goals, 12 assists,) Chris Jasinski ’08 (11 goals, 13 assists,) Adam Kirk ’09 (11 goals, seven assists,) Dan Latzman ’09 (11 goals) and Jeff Strittmatter ’09 (10 points.) Other contributors for Wesleyan included Kwasi Ansu ’09 (23 ground balls,) Bobby Goulding ’08 (50 ground balls, 140 successful face offs,) Matt Ward ’10 (29 successful face offs,) co-captain Peter Harrison ’07, Nick Hayes ’09 (21 ground balls,) Ramanin Sivalingan ’10 and goalie Mike Borrero ’09 (19 saves.)

Greg Boyle ’09 saw action in goal for Penn State. Captain Tyler Macaulay ’08 led San Jose State with 19 goals and was second with 31 points. Steve Westhoff ’08 helped lead Cal-Berkeley to the fi nal four of the Western Collegiate Lacrosse League. Justin Klueger ’07 scored 10 points (including fi ve goals) for Cal State-Chico(including fi ve goals) for Cal State-Chico(including fi ve goals) for . Mark Ledford ’08 led a group of seven Betas on the Vanderbilt squad and scored 21 points (15 goals, six assists.) Michael Brown ’08 led a group of four players on the Louisville club and Robert Wulff saw action in goal for Idaho. Playing in the Northwest were the Washington duo of Ross Maloney ’07 and Adam Sangeorzan ’08 plus three Whitman players: Chris Juergens ’07, Matt Stenovec ’08 and Matt Duncan ’09.

BASKETBALLIn early June, the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves announced the return of Jerry Sichtling, Purdue ’79, as an assistant coach. The 10-year veteran NBA guard began his coaching career in 1995 as the Timberwolves’ director of scouting and player personnel. Later that season, he added assistant coach to his title and remained in that role until 2005.

Sports RoundupThe National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, which Sports RoundupSports Roundupopened in Kansas City last fall, announced its second Sports RoundupSports Roundupinduction class in April. Named to the Hall was longtime Sports RoundupMissouri head coach Norm Stewart, Sports RoundupMissouri head coach Norm Stewart, Sports RoundupMissouriSports RoundupMissouriSports Roundup ’56, whose Sports Roundup ’56, whose Sports RoundupMissouri ’56, whose MissouriSports RoundupMissouriSports Roundup ’56, whose Sports RoundupMissouriSports Roundup634-333 record is 11th best in NCAA Division-I history.

Wabash forward Andrew Zimmer ’08 was named to the North-American Interfraternity Conference All-Fraternity All-American fi rst team after leading his team in scoring (450 points, 19.6 average), rebounds (195, 7.8 average), minutes played (768), blocked shots (40) and steals (26.) Washington-St. Louis head coach Mark Edwards, Washington-St. Louis ’69, was named to the NIC Coach of the Year honorable mention list after leading his team to a 25-5 season.

OTHER SPORTSKenny McMahon ’08 of the Wisconsin rowing squad earned a silver medal in varsity pairs competition during the Grand Final event at the International Rowing Association national championship. David Bass ’07 was a member of the Cornelllightweight varsity squad once again. Dominic Abruzze ’10 and Thom Caruso ’10 were part of the George Washington freshman eight that competed at the IRA national meet. Seeing action for the San Diego crew team were Nelson Chase ’09, Lambert De Ganay ’09, Shane Farmer ’08, Carson Reeding ’09 and Josh Winters ’09.

Other Beta crew or rowing team members included the Pennsylvania duo of Eric Beckmann ’10 and John Tatum ’10; Jose De La Guerra, Johns Hopkins ’10; Steve Souvall, Puget Sound ’09, and Michael Fowler, Puget Sound ’09, and Michael Fowler, Puget Sound Wichita State ’08. Involved with the sailing teams at their schools were captain Chris Wenner, Cal-Berkeley ’09, captain Stuart Watson, Cal Poly ’09, and the MIT duo of A-Division skipper Jake Muhleman ’08 and Victor Sinow ’08. – Jay Langhammer

Jerry SichtlingPurdue ’79


1.25 x 1.5 INCHESDog tags use name, age, sex, blood type and date of birth.

These are the bare-boned stats of a person’s life condensed onto a 1.25 x 1.5 inch piece of tin, swung loosely around the neck.

A soldier’s dog tags are many things to him – identifi cation, vouchers of combat, symbols of pride and sacrifi ce, and constant reminders of a sometimes-thankless duty fulfi lled.

Dog tags, therefore, belong to Army soldiers and their families, not street vendors in Vietnam. And yet, when Verlyn “Swede” Roskam, Knox ’51, visited Ho Chi Minh City with his wife Martha, they found a local woman who hawked and bartered a pile of tags heaped on her table.

The average tourist would have passed by; however, during a shopping excursion, Mrs. Roskam noticed the blackened, charred and beaten shards of metal in the city formerly known as Saigon. They sat on the table in the market with other trinkets. An immediate and oddly nostalgic shape to these pieces struck her, but she couldn’t quite place from where. Before approaching the table, her mind raced. Where had she seen them before? She picked up the familiar lightweight tin with the raised letters and connected the memory.

Swede’s dog tags, which hung closely to the desk of his Chicago offi ce.

Mrs. Roskam returned to their hotel where Swede was attending to a business meeting. When she explained the day’s events to her husband, a Korean War veteran himself, he gave her clear instruc-tions.

“I was incensed,” Roskam recalls vividly. “I asked [my wife] to go back to the store and buy them for whatever it costs. I didn’t care she paid $500 for the lot.”

Only $20 later, all 37 tags were wrapped tightly for a trip back to the United States.

THE LONG JOURNEYOnce stateside, the Roskam’s decided to return each tag back to its owner. It seemed like the right thing to do and Roskam called it “a matter of honor.” It turned into a much greater project than they had originally thought.

The U.S Department of Veterans Affairs pulled out the red tape. Bureaucracy took over.

“We moved in good faith. We just wanted these tags to return to their rightful owners.”

They spoke to their son Peter, an Illinois state senator at the time. With his connections, he cut the tape quicker than they could have. These seemed authentic, but it never hurts to get verifi cation. Soon, the truth was confi rmed. These tags were not fabricated souvenirs. They belonged to veterans of the Vietnam War.

For the next fi ve years, returning these artifacts to their rightful owners became a passion for the couple. They had initially thought to just FedEx every tag to its owner, but realized that thanking someone in person holds much more meaning.

“This [would be] their 15 minutes of fame,” says Roskam, “sometimes the only amount of time they’ll ever have in the spotlight. And it’s for a cause that I believe we should all be thankful for.”

Starting in 2002, they were granted access to government databases and used private investiga-

METAL OFMETALOFMETAL HONORHONOROFHONOROF

Summer 2007 23

HONORHONOR

A CONSTANT REMINDER OF A SOMETIMES THANKLESS DUTY FULFILLED.


tors, locating many of the soldiers and their families through serial numbers on the tags. They even went so far as to contact a noted historian and author, Paul Braddock, for assistance.

“Dog tags are the one thing that is the common denominator for anybody in the military.” Braddock offered, “If I had lost my tags and gotten them back, it would be like fi nding myself again.”

Perhaps Roskam recognized the pride one feels when he puts his life on the line for his country and for his way of life. “Dog tags are near and dear to every serviceman’s heart,” Roskam said, easily reciting his own tag serial number.

The pieces of tin were trinkets to the vendor and nothing more. However, for the men who lost them and the families to whom they were never returned, each tag holds a story.

Just outside of Phoenix, Ariz., Alfred Moreno Jr. once lived with eight brothers and sisters, and six cousins. His mother had died of double pneumonia and so he moved in with his aunt and uncle. Ann Sandoval raised him as if he were her own son. She pleaded with him not to enlist in the war, but he was determined.

She recalled his rationale, “He wasn’t going to stay, he wanted to enlist. He said, ‘I can’t think of anything else. I have to go and fi ght for our country.’”

When he was 20, he was dead. A land mine explo-sion ended his life.

“This [tag] is a precious gift,” she wept. “This has all been bittersweet, but I’m happy to have his tag now.”

For Ethel Palmquist, an 81-year-old retiree in Fresno, Calif., whose son was killed in action, the reaction was similarly emotional.

“It doesn’t bring my son back,” she said as she sobbed into Roskam’s arms. “But after years of wondering whatever happened to [his tags], I can’t believe they are fi nally home.”

Roskam remembered these diffi cult meetings, where returning a dog tag was just as likely to bring tears of sorrow as a sense of closure. “There was a profound sense of sadness in those tags,”

NO TICKER TAPE PARADESFor the many men who were fortunate enough to return home with their lives, the reception was very different from previous wars. This was not a popular time for the military. Soldiers often returned to a country that was vastly different than from the one for which they thought they were fi ghting. When Roskam returned a tag to Denzil Messman, this was never more apparent.

“...AFTER YEARS OF WONDERING WHATEVER HAPPENED TO [HIS TAGS] I CAN’T BELIEVE THEY ARE FINALLY HOME.”

Summer 2007 25Summer 2007 25

Messman thought back to everything else besides the tag that he lost in that war — his youth and his innocence. He confi rms painfully, “When we came back from Vietnam, we were condemned for being there. We hid from people. We withdrew into ourselves.” Without any recognition for services rendered or even a thank you, many soldiers did exactly as Messman described.

Roskam felt they deserved more. “I think it’s important that we honor these people that served us. Vietnam veterans came back and didn’t receive the type of honor they should have.”

Dana Safford from Worchester, Mass., was excited to retrieve this little chunk of memory. “I had no idea what happened to my tags but getting them back will be like getting a medal.” Safford passed away two weeks before the Roskams could return them.

Before he died, his enthusiasm helped set a tone and made the Roskams’ task much more rewarding. They had found people who needed to be thanked, and they adopted the task as ambassadors of appreciation.

“This has been a magnifi cent journey,” Roskam offered readily. “I’ve made contact with people I never would have met or talked to, otherwise.”

Bill Vargas of Los Angeles, Calif., initially thought the entire setup was a scam and skeptically agreed to meet with the Roskams. Upon seeing the small metal plate he had carried through two combat tours, Vargas realized he had made the right decision.

“It was an amazing feeling to see it,” he said. “You get kind of choked up, you know. It just reminds me of my time there – it’s hard to talk about, even now.”

Ernest Nunes lost his set when he was wounded in action during a skirmish in the Ashore Valley region of Vietnam. The resident of Swansea, Mass., agreed with Vargas, “It really showed me that veterans stand up for veterans. We’re brothers deep in our hearts.”

When Reginald Gay of Los Angeles saw his tag again for the fi rst time, he cringed. He remembers the horrors he experienced in Vietnam and refuses to speak of them. The rice paddies and jungles of Vietnam are not something he can forget, although he has tried.

Gay articulates, “There are certain things that you try to hold onto [during combat]: your dog tags, your weapon and pictures of Mom – stuff like that.”

To have one of those sacred items back in his hands was a strong reminder of how diffi cult the memories are to control. The emotion of the moment overtook Gay as he said, “It has been 30-plus years since my return to South Vietnam. No has ever said thank you. From the bottom of my heart, I appreciate your work.”

All-in-all, Robert Johnson of Birmingham, Ala., said it best. “We were stuck out in the fi eld a lot,” he explained. “When all you lost was a dog tag, it wasn’t a bad day.”

THIRTY-SIX DOWN ONE TO GOVeterans tend to look after one another, but it seems rare for a person to take such a strong interest in not only the soldier, but that soldier’s family as well.

“When I was in Korea,” Roskam starts, “all we had for identifi cation was our dog tags. [We] didn’t have credit cards or a driver’s license or anything else. I know what my tags have meant to me and my family. S, Martha and I have spent dozens upon dozens of hours tracking these gentlemen down. I think this was meant to happen. We couldn’t NOT return them.”

For a veteran, Roskam couldn’t ignore this call of duty. It wasn’t a part of his full-time job, nor was this even a tangent from a previous hobby. In fact, this is little more than a perfect example of how one man can truly help make a difference. It may seem small on the grand scale, but for each person who’s tags were returned, it meant the world to him or his family.

Roskam is a family man and a sales manager for a cat litter company. It certainly doesn’t sound like a glamorous life, but “it has been a marvelous experi-ence,” he says happily. He also says that he’s been blessed his entire life. He is 77 years old and plans “to work as long as the mind and body are healthy and strong.”

For a man his age, he has some advice to give to people who recognize a need in their community. “I would hope that, as a result of reading this article, someone out there will be spurred to fi nd ways to reach out to the community in any way they can.”

With only one dog tag left from the original 37, the Roskams are eager to fi nally reach out to this com-munity of veterans. - S. Brylski

The project was featured on MSNBC, the Today Show, National Public Radiod numerous other media outlets. To follow the Roskam’s progress, visit www.roskamdogtag.com.

“VIETNAM VETERANS CAME BACK AND DIDN’T RECEIVE THE TYPE OF HONOR THEY SHOULD HAVE.”


fi nest in the Greek world today. Working closely with alumni volunteers and host institution staff, they continue to add value to the undergraduate experience. We believe this will become even more important in the future.

Our staff of dedicated Betas and Friends of Beta working in Oxford, Ohio, is so committed to the concepts, ideals and values of Beta Theta Pi. The talent on our staff makes others in the Greek world envious, I am sure. And I have great confi dence that, under the direction of Jud Horras, Iowa State ’97, the staff will continue to be one of the shining stars in Beta’s Broad Domain.

Leadership training continues to be an area of major activity. This year, more than 300 Beta undergraduates attended The Wooden Institute. Three sessions of the Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge offered a rich outdoor leadership experience. Many more undergraduates attended leadership programs offered by the North-American Interfraternity Conference such as the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) and Futures Quest. We continue to receive requests from other organizations for information regarding Beta’s leadership agenda.

Rounding out our programming are the Keystone Regional Leadership Conferences, which were held in Portland, Ore.; Pittsburgh, Pa., and Kansas City, Mo. We are grateful for the countless hours invested by dedicated alumni to bring meaningful education initiatives to as many of our members as possible.

It’s hard to imagine this, but just nine years ago, we had just a few of our collegiate members attending any form of leadership experiences. This year, we will have almost 1,500 participate. What an amazing statistic and an affi rmation of Beta’s dedication to our collegiate members!

Standard Chapter Operating Expectations (SCOE) were developed Expectations (SCOE) were developed Expectationsin 2005 to clarify what is expected

GENERAL FRATERNITYOFFICER REPORTS

General SecretaryThis has been a year of exciting growth for Beta Theta Pi in many ways. We continue to lead the Greek community with innovative programming, superior services and a quality fraternity experience.

We welcomed fi ve new chapters into Beta’s Broad Domain: Dayton, Iowa State, Kettering, Miami and Southern California. We will continue our efforts to expand our Fraternity at Washington & Lee, Virginia, Eastern Illinois and John Carroll this coming academic year.

Alumni volunteers have expended thousands of hours working to ensure a positive experience. They are the backbone of the Fraternity. In Beta, we realize that good chapters have good advisors. Consequently, we have emphasized strengthening our volunteer corps by increasing the number of active chapter advisors and making sure they are well-trained to provide consistent support. Additionally, our Board of Trustees, regional directors, district chiefs and assistant district chiefs provide great leadership for our volunteers and collegiate members. Alumni support is not limited to those working directly with our chapters. The Beta Theta Pi Foundation is blessed with its fi ne Board of Directors, campaign volunteers and generous donors.

Our leadership consultants are the

David W. WrightOhio State ’67Ohio State ’67Ohio State

of every chapter and colony as a base level of chapter operations and performance. The program is certainly having a tangible impact on the Fraternity. Chapters now, more than ever, have a clear understanding of where they need to improve, and are provided the resources and support to make those improvements. Further, components of SCOE such as the Risk Management Rating System and Positive Pledge Education Assessment are actively engaging chapters and colonies to ensure a safe and supportive member experience.

As we look ahead, many challenges face the future of fraternities. Legal, fi nancial, collegiate membership recruitment, retention, expansion, behavioral and leadership issues, and public image are all of great concern. I am convinced, more than ever, that Beta is on the right track. We are modeling the way for the Greek community; however, we cannot rest on our laurels. Now is the time to rededicate ourselves to the founding principles of Beta Theta Pi.

Self-governance continues to be a general philosophy expected of the chapters. The destiny of a chapter lies in the hands of the collegiate membership. The actions of a single member can have a tremendous impact, positively or negatively, as the case has it. The ultimate responsibility falls in the hands of the leadership of the chapter.

I am convinced that our collegians, our dedicated alumni volunteers and our outstanding administrative offi ce staff, in conjunction with the Men of Principleinitiative, will ensure and strengthen our future.

For the past six years, it has been an honor to have served as your General Secretary. I want to thank everyone for the support, counsel, insights and challenges, which have been linked with friendship and fi delity. I am proud as ever to be a Beta!

Contact General Secretary Wright at [email protected].

Summer 2007 27

and Clark Crabill, General Fraternity’05, to review fi nancial policies and procedures, and present a draft for the 2008 budget that would move the Fraternity and Foundation toward true-cash budgeting.

Vice President Ken Grispin, Rutgers’70; Tom Cassady, Cincinnati ’76, Cincinnati ’76, Cincinnatiand Jud Horras examined insurance coverages and premiums paid by numerous Greek organizations. The research found that Beta’s premium is nearly the lowest in the Greek community. A critical factor in this result has been the Men of Principleinitiative. The feasibility of becoming self-insured or raising our deductible to reduce the premium was found to be impractical. Grispin also redrafted the defi nition of hazing, removing ambiguities that had confounded some chapters.

Vice President David Schmidt, South Florida ’92, has been working diligently with the Men of Principle Task Force to take the Men of Principle initiative to the next level. The results of the Task Force’s research from the last 18 months are being integrated into practically every aspect of the Fraternity’s form and function.

Overseen by Vice President Charlie Warner, Lynchburg ’87, expansions at Lynchburg ’87, expansions at Lynchburgthe University of Southern California, the University of Miami, the University of Dayton, Iowa State University, Kettering-A section and Kettering-B section, brought 253 men to Beta Theta Pi. The re-colonization at USC broke the record with 75 men. JB Scherpelz, Miami ’05, coordinated Miami ’05, coordinated Miami

P. Thomas PurintonKansas State ’63Kansas State ’63Kansas State

“Dave has done an incredible job, devoting unbelievable

time, heart and soul toward improving the Fraternity.”

PresidentIt has been a great privilege and honor to have the opportunity to serve along side the outstanding men of the Board of Trustees.

During this year, I have had the opportunity to present the keynote address at an anniversary banquet, install two chapters, visit two additional chapters, present two Oxford Cups to outstanding alumni, participate in the North American Interfraternity Conference and Congressional visits, attend The Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit and serve as a facilitator for three undergraduate leadership programs.

General Secretary Dave Wright, Ohio State ’67, is completing his sixth and fi nal year as the head of our organization. He has done an incredible job, devoting unbelievable time, heart and soul toward improving the Fraternity. It has truly been a pleasure for me to serve on the Board with him.

General Treasurer Christopher Miller, Kansas State ’86, worked closely with former Director of Chapter Operations Jud Horras, Iowa State ’97; Foundation Director Jonathan Brant, Miami ’75, Miami ’75, Miami

these projects as the director of expansion and recruitment.

Vice President John Conway, South Dakota’56, chairs the Keystone Regional Leadership Conference Steering Committee. This program was expanded to three locations and, by all indicators, was successful. Director of Leadership Development Ryan King, Southern Illinois ’01, has done a Southern Illinois ’01, has done a Southern Illinoissuperb job in developing this program. Conway has been very active with our colonies at Loyola-Marymount and the University of San Diego.

The Ritual Review Task Force, with Board representation by Vice President Joe Troncale, Alabama ’63, is proposing a number of changes for the fi rst time since 1964. These proposals will be presented for consideration at the 168th General Convention. Additionally, Troncale has been appointed chairman of the Housing Corporation Task Force for which he recently presented mission and vision statements, objectives and action plans.

Vice President Marty Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68, continues to be our resident expert on governance. Haskell served on the committee that carefully reviewed the job description of administrative secretary and interviewed candidates for the position. As you are aware, Steve Becker, Florida ’69, stepped down from his position. The Board extends to Steve our heartfelt appreciation for seven years of dedicated service, a record tenure. We also extend best wishes for success to our newly appointed administrative secretary, Jud Horras, Iowa State ’97.

Contact President Purinton at [email protected].


ArchivistBeta Theta Pi is a fraternity rich in heritage and history. The Fraternity is fortunate to have many items of historical signifi cance in the Beta Theta Pi archives and museum, however, more needs to be done to maintain, preserve and catalogue our history.

Over the past year, a small handful of concerned brothers formed, on their own accord, the Beta Theta Pi Historical Preservation and Research Committee (HPRC.) The six-man committee consists of Benjamin Swartz, Connecticut ’05; Adam Porter Price, Connecticut ’06; Zac Haines, Miami ’05; MacGregor Hill, William & Mary ’04; Mike Okenquist, Villanova ’94, and me. This committee is tasked with developing and implementing a long-term strategy for the preservation of Beta Theta Pi history. Further, the Committee is tasked with making the Beta Theta Pi Archives a useful resource for all members. This is a daunting task.

An overwhelming majority of archived documents, pictures and artifacts are not properly fi led, let alone catalogued. Recognizing the magnitude of this endeavor, the committee developed both long and short-term goals as well as projects that need immediate attention.

Further, the Committee has divided these goals into two categories. The fi rst category pertains to the collection of new artifacts and to the preservation of material currently contained within the Beta Theta Pi Archives. The second category pertains to historical research, interviews and education of undergraduate brothers on the importance of chapter archives.

Newly developed polices pertaining to archive usage and retention will ensure that we utilize our limited space in the most appropriate manner. At the April 2007 Board of Trustees meeting, the HRPC became a Board appointed committee. In addition, the Foundation Board of Directors has approved funding that will allow the Committee to begin work toward its goals.

Since the last report, the Fraternity has made signifi cant progress on the Wall of Badges. Thanks to generous donations, we are nearing the completion of “Pi” and can now focus on other areas. Work also continues on transcribing historic documents such as Francis W. Shepardson’s chapter visitation and historical information journals, letters between the founders and a recently discovered essay written by John Reily Knox in August 1839. Further, during a recent visit to Oxford, two fi les were found containing letters and documents from the 1840s. These have been scanned and will be catalogued and transcribed in the coming months.

Thanks to the assistance of the archives intern Kevin Fultz, Miami ’07, we Miami ’07, we Miamihave been able to maintain the current state of the archives. We appreciate the dedication that Kevin has given. Without his help, the archives would be in great disarray.

In order for the archives to become a usable resource for the Fraternity, it will need more manpower and funding. We are hopeful that in the future, the committee’s goals will be recognized by the membership as valuable, allowing increased access to the archives for all members of the Fraternity.

Contact Archivist Eickhoff at [email protected].

Eric J. EickhoffOhio Wesleyan ’00Ohio Wesleyan ’00Ohio Wesleyan

Beta Theta Pi is a fraternity rich in

heritage and history.

Summer 2007 29

Communications StaffRobert T. Umstadter, San Jose State’05, joined the department in May, assuming responsibilities as associate director of communications. He will focus his efforts on video production for the Fraternity’s numerous special events and leadership programs. We are pleased to welcome Robert to our Communications team, which includes Graphic Designer Sarah Shepherd and Associate Editor Steven M. Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06. I have recently agreed to continue my service through 2010.

Former Associate Director of Communications MacGregor H. Hill, William & Mary ’04 began his new role William & Mary ’04 began his new role William & Maryas director of operations and education in late-May. We wish Greg well and thank him for his continued service to the Fraternity.

The MagazineThe magazine budget for FY ’07 was $162,700, which included all aspects of pre-press operations, printing and mailing of four issues. This amount represents a 4.4% decrease from the previous year. I am pleased to report that actual production costs for FY ’07 were under budget by approximately $1,500. (See graph below.)

In the past four issues, we wrote 27 feature articles, which provided insight into the lives of prominent Betas,

EditorThis has been an incredibly active year for the Communications Department. Three new e-newsletters were debuted in early October: The Mystic Messenger (chapter offi cers), Advisors Corner (chapter advisors and campus Corner (chapter advisors and campus CornerGreek professionals) and Talking Points (General Fraternity offi cers.) The Beta Theta Pi Magazine Podcast, a bi-weekly internet audio program featuring news highlights and current events, premiered on October 2, 2007. Finally, an innovative magazine website (www.thebetathetapi.org) was launched in December.

In May, I was fortunate to be elected president of the College Fraternity Editors Association for 2007-08 and I look forward to representing our great and good Fraternity in this capacity. My predecessor, L.E. (Erv) Johnson, Idaho ’53 served as president (1998-99) and Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883 served as president of CFEA (1932-33.) The department was recognized with seven communications awards at the annual CFEA awards banquet.

Thomas C. OlverCentral Michigan ’98Central Michigan ’98Central Michigan

More than just a magazine! The BetaTheta Pi Magazine Podcast

www.thebetathetapi.org

Issue Page Count Total Cost Circulation Cost Per Copy Cost Per Page

Summer 2006 64 pages $32,108 50,062 $0.64 $502Fall 2006 86 pages $69,638 117,313 $0.59 $810Winter 2007 52 pages $32,915 52,778 $0.62 $633Spring 2007 36 pages $26,564 54,155 $0.49 $738

detailed coverage of the Fraternity’s remarkable leadership development programs, highlighted chapter success and analyzed issues of importance to the Greek community. We continued several popular departments including, News & Notes, Marching Along, Alumni News, Books by Betas, Center Stage, Campus Life, Mystic Shrine, Sports Round-up and The Last Word. More than 3,300 Betas were included in the past four issues and the magazine published text and stories from several hundred contributing writers.

When beginning this endeavor nearly six years ago, I shared the following goals for my term of service as editor: 1) to maintain balance in the composition and selection of content, 2) to increase the number of contributing writers and 3) to ultimately raise the collective consciousness of our members on issues of importance to the growth and development of the Greek movement. My team and I continue to strive toward these ends.

It is a privilege and pleasure to serve as your editor. I welcome and appreciate your feedback.

Contact the Editor at [email protected].

[Campus Life]

SCOE LegendAn update of each chapter’s performance in relation to the Standard Chapter Operating Expectations is included following its report. Items that appear in RED refl ect a failure to meet the standard. “N/A” for academics indicates no report. “N/A” for ritual indicates incomplete ritual performance verifi cation. SCOE data is accurate as of 6/30/07.

Advisors: The chapter must have more than or equal to fi ve advisors. (fi nance, risk management, recruitment, member education and chapter counselor)

Members: Anything less than 20 active members is not in line with SCOE.

Academic: The chapter must have a GPA of 2.7 or better.

Convention: Did the chapter send a delegate to the 167th General Convention in Toronto, Canada?

Finance: How much money is owed to the General Fraternity?

RM: The Risk Management Rating System is determined largely by the chapter’s ability to self-govern and hold itself accountable to safety standards.

Summer 2007 31

Alabama (∆Θ)Everything is going well for Delta Theta. The new $3.5 million chapter house

will be completed in the middle of June. Everyone is looking forward to moving in on August 1. Our intramural teams had great seasons with the basketball and softball teams lasting well into the playoffs. Will Evans ’10 was recently elected senator in the SGA. Wilson Boardman ’10 is involved with Capstone Men and Women. Recruitment for the fall is off to a great start. — Joshua M. Cirulnick ’10, [email protected]

Advisors: 6 Convention: Yes Members: 75 Finance: $0.00Academic: 2.73 RM: Excellent

Arizona (∆Β)Delta Beta, with the support of alumni, moved across the street into a new house that has more than three

times the square footage of the old house. The Chapter won eight awards from the University including the Dean Robert Szob Award for the best overall chapter at the University. This is the fi fth consecutive year that the Chapter received this award. The Chapter GPA is above the all-men’s average and the all-fraternities’ average and is fi fth on the total rank of fraternities. Delta Beta initiated 28 new members into the Chapter and we look forward to the fall. Recruitment Through Scholarship award applications were distributed to local high schools for the upcoming semester. — Troy M. Davis ’10, secretary, 650-465-4855, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: Yes Members: 90 Finance: $0.00Academic: 2.80 RM: Satisfactory

Auburn (∆Ζ)Delta Zeta posted a 2.88 GPA in the fall, which placed sixth of 27 fraternities on campus. The Chapter

initiated 35 new members in January and recruited seven pledge members for the spring semester. Delta Zeta has fi ve members on IFC cabinet, two members on SGA cabinet and one College of Business senator. Matt Jenkins ’08 was elected SGA president for the 2007 school year. Teams fi nished fi rst in soccer, swimming and ultimate Frisbee and second in football and basketball. In April, the Chapter held its fourth annual sorority volleyball tournament, benefi ting Big Oak Ranch. — Joseph R. Vinson ’08, public relations chairman, 251-421-5214, [email protected]

Advisors: 6 Convention: Yes Members:129 Finance: $0.00Academic: 2.88 RM: Satisfactory

Baylor (Baylor (Baylor ∆Ψ)Nothing new happened with Delta Psi. – Dillon G. Searle ’09, secretary, 903-926-6910, dillon_

[email protected]

Advisors: 4 Convention: Yes Members: 24 Finance: $0.00Academic: 2.79 RM: Unsatisfactory

Bethany (Ψ)This semester, Psi recruited and initiated seven new members. This was the group’s fi rst recruitment class after a spring 2006

recolonization. The initiation ceremony was held on April 18, 2007. Our alumni contributed greatly. Matt Davis ’07 graduated with honors. Davis coordinated the fi rst philanthropy event in association with the Lance Armstrong Foundation. To close the semester, Psi colony hosted a non-alcoholic block party with neighboring fraternity houses in downtown Bethany. There was a sizeable turnout for the event and the president of Bethany College commented on how well organized the party was. For next semester, alumni are planning events for homecoming weekend. Five of the 12 active members of the Psi colony will play in the homecoming football game. — Justin R. Elkins ’07, chapter president, 706-566-5252, [email protected]


Binghamton (ΕΨ)Did not submit report.

Advisors: 5 Convention: NoMembers: 13 Finance: $1,325.28Academic: 2.69 RM: Unsatisfactory

British Columbia (ΓΟ)This year has been extraordinarily successful for Gamma Omicron. The intramural sports trophy will remain

in our care for another year as we won 16 championships including our undefeated soccer and ball-hockey teams. We placed fi rst in Order of Omega's Songfest. Chapter President Peter Sean Kearney ’08 serves as the IFC president along with two other brothers on the IFC executive committee. Rob McLean ’08 and Dima Yagnyuk ’08 were elected president and vice president of recruitment for Order of Omega, respectively. Alex N. Charters ’38, the oldest living member of our chapter, met with the undergraduates. — David W. Cotterall ’09, vice president, 604-224-6872, [email protected]


Cal Poly (Ε∆)Cal Poly (Ε∆)Cal PolyEpsilon Delta would like to extend our prayers to the 32 victims and their

families whose lives were taken during the early morning hours at Virginia Tech on April 16. The tragedy that occurred that day will not be forgotten. In spite of the recent tragedy, the spirits and morale of the Chapter are high. We participated St. Jude Children’s Hospitals’ Up ’til Dawn, an Adopt-A-Highway program, Greek Day Cleanup and handiwork on an AIDS memorial. — Andrew M. Diefenbach ’07, vice president, 925-360-4497, [email protected]

Advisors: 3 Convention: NoMembers: 22 Finance: $3,718.34Academic: 2.69 RM: Satisfactory

Cal-Berkeley (Ω)This semester, Omega improved the house, the pledge education program and the relationship with the

university. Fixing the fi re alarm and sprinkler systems, the fi re hose and exit signs was a top priority. In addition, both decks are refi nished, the water damage to the roof is fi xed and other signifi cant improvements to the house are complete. The Chapter participated in Sigma Pi’s clothing drive, Alpha Delta Pi’s Foozbrawl tournament and Relay for Life. A scholarship program offers $500 for those whose semester GPA is greater than 3.6. The varsity rugby team, which includes 31 active Omega undergraduates, won another national championship with an undefeated season.— Christopher M. Wenner ’09, secretary, 310-936-2010, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: No Members: 40 Finance: $0.00Academic: 2.60 RM: Satisfactory

California-Irvine (∆Σ)Did not submit report.

Advisors: 5 Convention: Yes Members: 32 Finance: $1,749.14Academic: 3.03 RM: Excellent

California-Los Angeles (ΓΝ)Gamma Nu consistently exceeds the all-men's, all-

campus and all-fraternity GPAs. Five active members fi nished with 4.0 GPAs. Brian (Chuck) Chung '08 served and directed IFC as internal vice president and interim president during a diffi cult transition. The Bridge Builder Initiative, designed by Geoff Lewis '09, will promote better relationships with Gamma Nu alumni after graduation. The Chapter is back on good standing with the General Fraternity and applied for the Sisson award. — John B. Larson


’08, chapter president, 510-435-3277, [email protected]


California-Santa Barbara (ΕΠ)Among Epsilon Pi’s outstanding accomplishments,

recruitment stands out most prominently. In the fall, the Chapter recruited 26 new members and recruited another 12 for the spring pledge quarter. Member involvement and enthusiasm hit recent highs. Scott Simmons ’07 organized an all-Greek softball tournament that raised more than $1,000 for the American Cancer Society. The Chapter worked in conjunction with alumnus Eric Ehlers ’97 to support the Santa Barbara Legal Aid foundation. This year’s infl ux of new members brought new insights and fresh perspectives to chapter leadership. — Sean Murray ’09, vice-president, 818-481-8005, [email protected]


Carleton (ΕΨ)Epsilon Upsilon welcomed 12 new brothers, making it one of the most successful recruiting years. The

Chapter adopted a section of Bronson Avenue in front of the Carleton campus, which we clean and maintain regularly. We participated in a skate-a-thon to benefi t the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and volunteered to manage the Irish 10K run along the Rideau Canal. Epsilon Upsilon alumni were instrumental to the Chapter by providing constant support and guidance when needed. We are very proud to say that we had a great turnout at this year’s General Convention in Toronto, which was an amazing experience for all who attended. — Martin G. Pineault ’09, chapter president, 613-899-1223, [email protected]


Carnegie Mellon (ΓΙ)This was a busy spring semester for Gamma Iota. We believe ourselves to be the leading fraternity on

campus in the areas of service, scholarship and public relations. With the addition of 23 strong brothers during initiation, the Chapter also recruited three new members during the spring. Each member of the chapter completed 25 hours of community service. We organized bake sales with the Delta Gamma sorority and held the

second annual Beta Theta Pi fl ag football tournament, both of which benefi t Smile Train. The Chapter sought to improve alumni relations by holding our second alumni golf outing at Meadowink Golf Course with 71 brothers in attendance. — Cody J. Vild ’08, secretary, 412-862-2647, [email protected]


Case Western Reserve(ΛΚΒ)Lambda Kappa-Beta had another great year on the Case Western Reserve University campus. We held the 21st Annual Stephen P.

Arnold Walkathon for diabetes, raising more than $2,000 for the Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland. Following this event, the Chapter enjoyed a fun weekend in Niagara Falls, Canada for spring formal. At the university Greek awards ceremony, the Chapter won the Chapter management section and was recognized for achievement in recruitment and pledge education. Peter Janki ’09 was recognized as the outstanding chapter member and Jeremy Harchelroad ’09 was recognized as the outstanding chapter scholar. — David C. Bartholomew ’06, 216-754-1907


Central Florida (ΖΨ)Zeta Psi raised more than $10,000 for charitable

organizations through such events as UCF Idol and Relay for Life. With 26 new members joining the ranks of the chapter, things seem to be moving in an extremely positive direction. Zeta Psi looks forward to hosting the 168th General Convention in Orlando this summer. — Mark B. Schaal ’09, secretary, [email protected]


Central Michigan (ΕΓ)Epsilon Gamma initiated eight gentlemen in the spring. The Colony achieved

the highest GPA for a fraternity in the history of the University; their closest competitor was 0.25 points behind. The President’s Cup, which is awarded to the University’s top performing chapter, was given to Epsilon Gamma for the fi rst time since recolonization. Almost half of the undergraduates will attend leadership opportunities during the summer. — Shane P. Farrell ’10, secretary, 313-520-0812, [email protected]


Cincinnati (βν)Beta Nu fi nished the year strongly. In academics, Beta Nu held a 3.18 GPA ad the new member GPA hovered around 3.17. The Chapter performed more than 20

hours of community service per member. Beta Nu raised more than $3,000 through our philanthropy event, a psychedelic toilet sale. Three brothers spent time in New Orleans to help repair houses damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Senators in student government, coordinators of student orientation and members in design, business and engineering honor societies represent the Chapter on campus. We are looking to initiate 14 men, which is a little less than half the chapter. Beta Nu is excited for next year and its future is bright. — William D. Buschle ’07, chapter president, 513-289-0279 [email protected]


Clemson (∆Ν)Delta Nu holds leadership positions in various campus organizations such as Student Government,

the Student Alumni Association, Greek Programming Board, Order of Omega and a handful of others. We initiated eight new members. Delta Nu has the highest GPA with a 3.08. Other achievements include the new member program award and third-place fi nish in Greek Week. Robert Fraser ’10 was awarded new member of the year. The Chapter is proud to have a very dedicated and visible advisory team who continue to show their support and devotion year after year. — J. Deeds Kienker ’08, chapter president, 803-727-2074, [email protected]


Colgate (ΒΘ)Did not submit report.


Colorado Mines (ΒΦ)Beta Phi is gearing up for a challenging year. With the current chapter house scheduled to

be torn down this summer, we took up residence in a temporary facility (1421 Washington Street, Golden, Colorado, 80401.) The Chapter is very excited about the construction of the new house

Summer 2007 33

scheduled for completion in the summer of 2008. Initiating six new members, the Chapter is working hard to recruit a large class of quality individuals. We fi nished third overall in intramurals and continue to push for an improved GPA. In April and May, alumni attended our Hawaiian luau and alumni breakfast events. Alumni, please join us for recruitment next fall during the week of August 27. — Logan J. Ronhovde ’08, chapter president, 303-263-4234, [email protected]


Colorado State (ΕΚ)The Epsilon Kappa colony applied for a charter at this summer’s convention. All eight executive

members attended the Keystone Regional Leadership Conference in Kansas City. At this conference, the Chapter was given the Midwest Member Education Award. Including this year, Epsilon Kappa held the highest fraternity GPA on campus since the recolonization. In addition, the Chapter obtained the highest all-Greek GPA, surpassing every fraternity and sorority on campus. The inaugural Miami Triad Luau in April brought together the fi rst three

fraternities founded at Miami University. — Robert J. Senser ’09, secretary, 303-524-2377, [email protected]


Columbia (ΑΑ)Alpha Alpha initiated six new members into the chapter. All brothers focused on their academics and the chapter GPA far exceeded the all-men’s average at Columbia.

We are proud to say that the brothers were extremely active with philanthropy events. They participated in and helped organize the Project Health Barbeque, many were active in Columbia Community Outreach and a few brothers are going to Tanzania this summer with Students of the World. The new members volunteered at a local burrito café, which serves as a fundraiser for a homeless shelter. — Maxwell C. Tobin ’09, secretary, 201-694-2279, [email protected]


Connecticut (ΖΧ)Zeta Chi was proud to welcome three new brothers this spring. Ross Gionfriddo ’09 was awarded Emerging Greek Leader and Andrew

Callahan ’07 received Outstanding Greek Senior. Other awards included House of the Year, Excellence in Campus Involvement, Excellence in Philanthropy, Excellence in Community Service, Excellence in New Member Academic Achievement, Excellence in Academic Improvement and Excellence in Academic Achievement. We held our annual four-square philanthropy tournament to benefi t St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Zeta Chi is proud to congratulate Gionfriddo who will serve as the student representative to the University Board of Trustees. — Kenneth J. Knowles II ’10, secretary, 203-615-8336, [email protected]


High quality stainless-steel.Scratch proof sapphire crystal.Water resisant tested to 330 feet.


Cornell (Β∆)Beta Delta fi nished the year strongly by initiating 15 new members in April. Fall grades were well above the all-fraternity average. Brothers

continued their involvement in local youth mentoring (more than 250 hours) and raised more than $2,000 as a team for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Brothers continued their campus involvement; among many others, Stephen Lightfoote ’07 wrote for the campus newspaper and Lonnie Kussin ’07 served as secretary of the Sports Management Club. Dan Opel ’08 won the individual intramural table tennis tournament with ease and Beta Delta was competitive in all intramural sports. Reunions are to be held during reunion week at the Castle on the Rock. — Robert A. Ippolito ’08, chapter president, 585-315-2205, [email protected]


DaytonInitiated by the Alpha chapter on April 17, 2007 in Oxford, Ohio, the founding father class of 32 at the University of Dayton set

out to shatter the stereotype of fraternities. Founded through the Men of Principleinitiative as well as the Marianist philosophy, the Dayton colony plans to set a standard for all Greek organizations on campus. Brothers were active in philanthropy, which includes winning the Drive 75 competition by collecting more canned goods than any other small organization on campus. The key will be to stay involved in other campus organizations and in Beta. This included regularly scheduled study sessions in the library to maintain a 3.4 GPA. In addition, they participated in intramural sports and advanced to the fi nals in both soccer and softball. The brothers fi nished the semester on a high note by approving a constitution and hosting a successful alumni picnic with local alumni. — Daniel T. Bassett ’08, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: N/A Members: 35 Finance: $10.50Academic: N/A RM: Unsatisfactory

Denison (ΑΗ)This was a very exciting year for Alpha Eta. The Colony had the second highest Greek GPA in the fall, being one of

two breaking the 3.2 mark for the fi rst time in Denison’s history. A key philanthropy/service project included assisting the Salvation Army by raising $300, collecting roughly a dozen bags of clothing and donating hours of time during the course of a few weeks. This year saw the initiation of three pledge classes, with 14 new

members in total. The Colony boasts a 100% initiation rate, which shows huge strides in the recruitment process. Perhaps most exciting of all were the honors that the Colony received at Greek Awards night in April. Twelve awards were brought home that night, most notably the Commitment to Fraternal Purpose Award. — Nicholas K. Geitner ’09, treasurer, 740-587-9238, [email protected]


Denver (ΑΖ)Throughout the quarter, we participated in multiple philanthropy events with

other Greek organizations. We teamed up with Delta Delta Delta sorority and placed second in Greek Week 2007. In this year’s Greek awards, our chapter won the Most Improved Chapter award. Eight undergraduates are registered and looking forward to convention this summer. We recently held an alumni luncheon at the school’s new hotel restaurant and tourism management building. — Michael K. Berthold ’08, chapter president, 817-988-5008, [email protected]


DePauw (∆)For the past three semesters, Delta increased the overall

GPA and will become one of the top three academic fraternities on campus. We run several philanthropies including Beta Theta (Pizza) Pie Eating Contest, Cow Plop and Beta Car Bash. These events raised more than $2,000 for the community. Delta remained one of the top contributors for Relay for Life and maintained its status as a Ruby Level corporate sponsor. Daniel Moon ’08 received the Greek Man of the Year award. John Cook ’10 competed in the NCAA Division III National Championship during his fi rst year of collegiate swimming. Delta recruited 24 new members and maintained 100% retention through initiation. — Kyle P. Booher ’09, public relations, 765-618-2777, [email protected]


Duke (ΓΡ(ΓΡ( )Did not submit report.

Advisors: 3 Convention: NoMembers: 14 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.13 RM: Unsatisfactory

East Carolina (ΕΑ)Epsilon Alpha was presented an award at the fi rst Greek Life recognition banquet

for the highest GPA amongst all IFC organizations. In March, Epsilon Alpha held the Strikes for Tikes philanthropy event, which raised $1,500 donated to the Children’s Miracle Network. We spent time with the kids at the local Boys and Girls Club helping them with homework and playing games. The Chapter participated in a run/walk that benefi ted the scholarship fund of a fallen Greek. Three new members were added through initiation. The Chapter took part in an evaluation from the Greek Life Coalition, the results of which will play a key role in the future of the University’s Greek Life system. — Matthew R. McCarthy ’09, secretary, 919-631-6796, [email protected]


Eastern Kentucky (∆Ξ)Delta Xi started the year with the 35th anniversary celebration, which brought

more than 150 alumni, undergraduates, friends and families to campus. Delta Xi sent a delegation to the Keystone Regional Leadership Conference and brought home four awards. During Greek Week, Delta Xi was recognized with six more awards. Three undergraduates were chosen to be orientation leaders and two others were selected as new student day leaders. Ten undergraduates were recognized for academic excellence and two were recognized as outstanding student leaders. Delta Xi concluded the spring semester with the initiation of four undergraduates in Oxford, Ohio. — Joseph D. Knuckles ’08, public relations, 859-200-5204, [email protected]


Eastern Washington (ΕΩ(ΕΩ( )Epsilon Omega held an initiation for four men that are very enthusiastic about membership. Congratulations

to Jason Gavinski ’07 for being accepted to the MBA program at Washington State University. The Chapter is the reigning intramural football champion. The inaugural lineage banquet honored our alumni will keep connections strong between them and our active members. — Logan R. Kennedy ’10, secretary, 509-660-1456, [email protected]


Summer 2007 35

Emory (ΓΥ)Gamma Upsilon saw many individual successes. Marc Thalheim ’07 founded a ballroom dancing club, which grew in membership from three

to 15 this past semester. Adam Sacks ’09 was elected president of Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) club. Yoji Masuoka ’07 and Lee Friedman ’07 were co-captains of the varsity tennis team. Masuoka climbed as high as sixth in the nation in singles and third in the nation in doubles (NCAA Div. III.) The team is ranked third in the nation. We 10 newly initiated members. They are intelligent, diverse and each brings something new to the table. — Tamir M. Taylor ’09, [email protected]


Florida (ΓΞ)This semester ranked among Gamma Xi’s most successful in all facets of fraternal

and campus life. The Chapter GPA was above both the all-men’s and all-fraternity averages. The Beta Challenge raised more than $2,000 for the Tom Brown Scholarship Fund. Gamma Xi participated in numerous service projects including its newly founded Beta Buddies mentoring program at a local elementary school. Athletics thrived as the Chapter won the all-campus championships in fl ag-football and basketball. — Anthony V. Crawford, secretary, 813-625-2285, avcraw14@ufl .edu


Florida Atlantic (Ζ∆)Zeta Delta maintained its focus of strengthening the bonds of brotherhood. Former president Nicolas Jones

’0 7 was awarded chapter president of the year. We are looking forward to the future of recruitment to strengthen our chapter even more. During the 2007-08 year, our goals will include becoming more active in the local community and reaching our fundraising goals. In addition, we will be organizing traditions to bring current brothers and future Betas of the Zeta Delta chapter closer than ever. — Christopher A. Barretta ’09, chorister, 561-479-4627, [email protected]


FloridaInternationalThe FIU colony scored high with awards for Outstanding Risk Management, Outstanding Chapter

Management and Outstanding Public Relations. Gabriel Shapanka ’07 received the IFC President of the Year award. This semester was about giving, as the Colony raised more than $1,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network through Dance Marathon and Relay for Life. The Florida International colony will soon be marching along with their reorganized executive board. The Colony is looking forward to successful summer recruitment, more awards and the prospect of chartering. — Juan F. Fernandez ’09, secretary, 305-431-4217, [email protected]


George Washington (ΖΝ)Zeta Nu continued the trend of exemplary recruitment with this semester’s eight

man class. Those eight, combined with the 11 from last semester almost doubled the chapter size in one short year. This class represents a momentous occasion for the Chapter because they are the fi rst pledge class from our chapter to be initiated in the Hall of Chapters in Oxford. Zeta Nu had a very productive year here at GWU, once again renewing the lease on the house and winning several awards from the University including Most Improved GPA and House Manager of the Year, Alex Foster ’08. We achieved one of the three highest levels of Greek achievement. — Thomas R. Levy ’09, secretary, 215-820-1881, [email protected]


Georgia (Georgia (Georgia ΕΕ)Epsilon Epsilon stayed true to the cultivation of the intellect by attaining

an overall GPA of 3.25, which placed it fi fth of 28 fraternities. The brothers were above the all-men’s, all-Greek and all-campus averages. Throughout the spring, the Chapter logged more than 2,000 community service hours. The 20th annual Choral Cup competition was attended more than 900 people and we raised approximately $5,000 for the American Cancer Society. This past semester, we had several brothers reach leadership positions on campus. We recently had the development of an alumni association that is putting together numerous events for the near future. — Trent P. Culbertson ’09, secretary, 678-521-3258, [email protected]


Georgia Tech (ΓΗ)Gamma Eta completed a tremendous effort in Atlanta’s Dogwood Festival, a showcase of music and art located in Midtown

Atlanta. Thanks to Matthew Tomme ’07 and Matthew Fredrickson ’09, the Chapter successfully ran the logistics of the festival including set-up and teardown. Many undergraduates were selected for FASET, the highly selective freshmen orientation organization. Ten brothers will serve as FASET leaders this summer, two of whom will serve on the organizing “cabinet” for the organization. Gamma Eta fi nished fi rst in grades fi rst in fraternity fl ag football. — Robert M. Boozer ’10, risk manager, 404-840-8257, [email protected]


Hampden-Sydney (Ζ)Zeta initiated 11 members on April

9, which is the largest class since the re-colonization. In terms of individual achievement, Zeta fl ourished. In addition to successful elections to offi cer positions in student clubs and organizations on campus, Zetas tutor and demonstrate academic excellence in their own fi elds. During the last few weeks of the semester, Mark A. Tassone ’08 received the Leila B. Thompson Eta Sigma Phi Latin Prize, Andrew Jennings ’09 received the Sophomore Academic Excellence Award and G. Clay Whittaker ’09 placed third in a short story contest and second in a poetry contest. — G. Clay Whittaker ’09


Hanover (Ι)Did not submit report.


Idaho (ΓΓ)Gamma Gamma regained the position of fi rst in grades after narrowly missing out each of the last two semesters. This success

can be attributed to the revamping of our scholarship program, an effort that did not gone unnoticed by the University. Gamma Gamma was recognized with the Excellence in Scholarship Award and the Chapter Excellence Award, the highest honor a fraternity can receive. Further, Gamma Gamma received the Outstanding Campus Involvement Award. We hosted a scholarship dinner where we awarded eight


of our members with scholarships totaling $6,700. We recognized the dedication and support of John Barker ’03, the former new member education advisor who will graduate from law school. — Jesse R. Johnson ’09, secretary, 208-885-6251, [email protected]


Illinois (ΣΡ)Sigma Rho raised the Chapter’s GPA to 2.95, which is in comparison to the all-men’s average of 2.98. Beta Olympics raised more than

$1,000 for philanthropy. Derek P. Axibal ’07 was appointed president of the New Life Volunteering Society, which dedicates many hours to society and supporting people in need. During the summer, we will host an alumni golf outing near Chicago for any brother who is interested. — Samuel D Strain ’06, 224-622-1492, [email protected]


Indiana (Π)Pi successfully completed another exceptional school year. For the second consecutive semester, the Chapter received the highest

men’s fraternity GPA with a 3.288. This is compared to the all-Greek average of 3.106. The new spring pledge class of 26 men accumulated more than 300 community service hours. Additionally, Pi received two intramural championships in football and soccer. All of us will be pleased to welcome 26 the new initiates in the fall of 2007. We look forward to another school year of success while trying to earn our badge every day! — Andrew C. Eshelman ’08, 317-698-9136, [email protected]


Iowa (ΑΒ)Alpha Beta was busy serving the community and participating in

philanthropic activities. The Chapter participated in the fi rst Relay for Life at the University of Iowa, raising more than $2,000 for cancer research. The Chapter initiated fi ve new members in April and has already started recruiting for next fall. The brothers were very involved in the community and in organizations on campus, logging several hundred hours of community service. After receiving gold merit in Greek Week including fi rst place in follies and the Chapter brotherhood award, the Chapter is getting back on its feet in a hurry. The

brothers believe that their success is a tribute to those who came before and merely a taste of what is to come. — Kyle M. Collins ’07, 563-495-0124, [email protected]


Iowa State (ΤΣ)Tau Sigma set a very high standard in its fi rst year back on campus at Iowa State. The Chapter tied for highest Greek GPA for the

fall semester with a 3.18, well above the 2.9 all-men’s average. Matthew D. Martin ’10 maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA to help meet this goal. Tau Sigma held the Beta Battle of the Bands. We were able to make signifi cant donations to the Food Pantry of Ames and the Children’s Miracle Network. Led by Recruitment Chairman Chris Brubaker ’10 and Brandt Jensen ’09, Tau Sigma initiated fi ve new members, bringing the year-old colony’s membership to 25. Summer recruitment chairmen are working hard towards membership requirements for chartering. — Erik Petersen ’09, secretary, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: N/A Members: 25 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.15 RM: Excellent

Johns Hopkins (ΑΧ)With the addition of four members in the fall semester and 12 more during the spring semester,

Alpha Chi saw tremendous growth in a number of areas. The Chapter accumulated more than 217 hours of community service and collected more than $2,100 worth of food items for the Maryland Food Bank. We earned the Excellence in Community Service & Philanthropy award from the school. Jason Siegler ’09 was named Outstanding Greek Sophomore for his work as philanthropy chairman. The Chapter is sending fi ve brothers to the 168th General Convention and another will attend UIFIin Indiana during the summer. — Daniel J. Young ’09, secretary, 510-318-0906, [email protected]


Kansas (ΑΝ)At the annual Greek awards night, Alpha Nu walked away with highest honors in academics, winning both the overall chapter

GPA award and the new member class GPA award. The Chapter captured the intramurals title again thanks to strong showings in almost every sport. Last semester, construction was completed on

a $1 million patio addition. The new patio features a stone fi re-pit and a covered outdoor dining area seats 80 people. This gift was courtesy of the pledge class of ’80. On February 11, 2007, Alpha Nu inducted 23 new brothers. We are very excited about the class of 2010. We will be saying goodbye to our housemother of fi ve years Sharon Gernon. — Brian Reynolds ’08, chapter president, [email protected]


Kansas State (ΓΕ)After another successful semester, Gamma Epsilon is still excelling at the highest levels.

Academically, the men are on track for another top-fi ve fi nish in grades. The men fi nished working with Woodrow Wilson Elementary School on their kids’ carnival, of which, we were invited back to help with again next year. We did all of this while fi nishing fi rst in intramurals for the third consecutive year. Next fall, Gamma Epsilon looks forward to a solid pledge class of more than 20 quality men. — Ryan D. Newton ’08, chapter president, 316-648-4446, [email protected]


Kenyon (ΒΑ)It was a semester of growth for Beta Alpha. Most importantly, the Chapter made strides to

restore the historic Temple in the Woods, which is in a desperate state of disrepair. Congratulations to Carlin Shoemaker ’08 and Yancy Edwards ’09 who were honored as NCAC all-conference football players. Also, congratulations to Chad Smith ’09 who was unanimously elected vice president of internal affairs for the Greek Council. — Ariel O. Helfer ’08, chapter president, 740-427-6333, [email protected]


Kettering ADid not submit report.

Advisors: 5 Convention: N/A Members: 18 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.4 RM: N/A

Kettering BDid not submit report.

Advisors: 4 Convention: N/A Members: 22 Finance: $0.00Academic: N/A RM: N/A

Summer 2007 37

Knox (Ξ)Xi boasted nine different captains of varsity athletics. The Chapter

initiated 10 new brothers and is excited about the potential leadership these men will offer. Xi won the philanthropy award at the annual Greek Week banquet. The Chapter averaged 15 service hours per member. The Chapter raised $3,070 to benefi t the Special Olympics at the Polar Bear Plunge in addition to assisting the Special Olympics of Western Illinois. Xi will host its inaugural Sisson Alumni Classic at Willowhill golf course in Northbrook, Illinois. Invitations were sent to all Xi alumni living in or around the Chicagoland area. — Ariel O. Helfer ’08, chapter president, 740-427-6333, [email protected]


Lawrence (ΓΠ)Gamma Pi is proud to report that we had the second highest GPA of all fraternities at Lawrence. Gamma Pi had one of the most successful

recruitment periods in several years. In early April, we initiated 18 new members into our chapter. This spring, Gamma Pi

piloted its fi rst self-run leadership transition, which was extremely successful. We worked regularly with Housing Partnership of the Fox Cities, helping create new, low-income housing. Additionally, we donated more than $800 to the organization. — David E. Lofstrom ’08, secretary, 920-832-7869, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: Yes Members: 39 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.10 RM: Sataisfactory

Lehigh (ΒΧ)Beta Chi’s year was highlighted by various philanthropic, brotherhood and social events. The

local funk band Post Junction played twice and a DJ was invited to for dance parties. We held a four-square tournament, which raised more than $400 dollars for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Andrew Edmonds ’09 was elected to take up the presidential after a successful term at risk manager. The Chapter has a new faculty advisor; Dale Falcinelli ’71 is a Beta Chi alumnus and a respected Lehigh faculty member. — Christopher Adamski ’09, secretary, 267-218-2287, [email protected]


Louisville (∆Π)Delta Pi increased its roster by 40% and made great strides in alumni relations and philanthropic

endeavors. A few of the defi ning moments this past semester included the 35th anniversary alumni dinner and the third annual alumni softball game. The Chapter made tremendous progress internally with a revamped constitution. There is a distinct possibility of procuring an on-campus house. — Kyle Melwing ’08, chapter president, 502-939-5980, [email protected]


Loyola MarymountThe Loyola Marymount colony started the year strong with its annual philanthropy Dragon

Nights. Dragon Nights recently won the award for best educational program by a Greek organization on campus. The Colony is primed to charter this summer. After 33 seniors graduate, we will look to new, young leadership and a new perspective on reaching our potential. — Randall T.


Hellman ’09, secretary, 949-933-8234, [email protected]


Maine (ΒΕ)Beta Eta ran the successful Beta Sleep Out for Rape Response Services of Bangor. The Sleep Out was

a 12-hour event that required all brothers stay locked out of the house from 6 pm to 6 am the following morning. During that time and the weeks preceding, brothers raised money in the form of donations or raffl e tickets. The active brothers slept outside on the lawn in front of a bonfi re during this event to show support and dedication. The Sleep Out raised $4,100. In addition, our spring pledge class consists of seven new members who will be great additions to our chapter. — Joseph W. Colby ’09, secretary, 207-890-1335, [email protected]

Advisors: 3 Convention: No Members: 38 Finance: $26.91Academic: 2.76 RM: Unsatisfactory

Miami (Α)Alpha initiated a new member class of 34 men this spring, which placed in two philanthropies and

won another. The Chapter had the highest grades on campus for the fall semester. Kevin Iacofano ’07 and Jake Whelan ’07 were recognized as the top students in their respective schools. Alpha won Division I intramural sports, the fi rst time since recolonization. Nine awards were taken home from the Greek awards ceremony. With 27 men registered for the various events, we look forward to a great summer of Beta leadership opportunities. — William M. Heavener ’09, secretary, 630-886-1304, [email protected]


Miami (Florida)The University of Miami colony excelled in several

areas. In our fi rst year, we ranked number one academically among all fraternities on campus with an average GPA of 3.37. In community service, we were recognized for the most participation in several events such as Hurricanes Help the Hometown, FunDay and Greek Earth Day. We won Delta Gamma’s Anchor Splash and supported many other philanthropies. Several brothers serve prominent roles on campus including IFC judicial board and Greek Week executive board. In the spring, we initiated a spring pledge class of four, bringing our total to 59. — Jeffrey D. Gaston, risk manager, 303-994-1015,

[email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: N/A Members: 60 Finance: $0.00Academic: N/A RM: Excellent

Michigan State (ΓΨ)Gamma Psi alumni and the Beta Theta Pi General Fraternity are targeting a fall 2008 re-colonization of the chapter. The

next Gamma Psi Alumni/Beta Tau House Corporation meeting will be held in East Lansing during Homecoming on October 13. Details will be provided later via e-mail. Please update your contact information including your e-mail address at both the General Fraternity (www.betathetapi.org) and the Gamma Psi websites (www.msubetasalumni.com.) We have 17 of the required 30 alumni who volunteered to be part of the re-colonization planning group. We need your help! To become part of the planning group, please contact Eric Shirley ([email protected].)

Middle Tennessee State (ΕΘ)Did not submit report.


Minnesota (ΒΠ)Beta Pi was fi rst in grades for the seventh time in the last eight semesters.

Nine men were initiated at the Hall of the Chapters in Oxford, Ohio. Beta Pi boasts some of the best leaders at the University, from commanders in the ROTC to an award winning teaching assistant. The Chapter has many presidents and vice presidents of organizations outside of the Fraternity. With a newly installed summer recruitment strategy, we look forward the success next fall. — Aviran Sethi ’09, secretary, 507-254-6885, [email protected]


Mississippi (ΒΒ)Bart Reising ’08, long time Associated

Student Body (ASB) member, took the reins as the judicial chairman of the University and of the ASB. He heads the judicial branch of all student issues on campus. Ryan Hibbard ’07 took his cords for Phi Beta Kappa, becoming the third Beta Beta undergraduate in as many years to receive that honor. Eight seniors will graduate this May. We encourage all alumni to contact us so that we may update our mailing lists. Any references for fall rush can be sent to our normal mailing address. — Joshua L. Robinson ’08, secretary, 228-861-9143, [email protected]


Missouri (ΖΦ)Zeta Phi initiated its 3,000th member in a pledge class of 33. We

took fi rst place in Greek Week, which includes a fi rst place fi nish in both service and blood donation. James M. Barry ’08 was named president of IFC. Chris R. Marischen ’09 was named director for Block Rock. Zeta Phi earned the highest new member and chapter GPA among fraternities and was above the all-mens and all-Greek averages. The Chapter placed fi rst in Rocking Against Multiple Sclerosis, which is headed by Brian M. Phillips ’01. Zeta Phi is headed down a strong path. — Nicholas Ebert ’08, chapter president, 636-734-6351, [email protected]


Missouri-Kansas City (ΕΛ)Epsilon Lambda started the semester by initiating

16 new members, who attained a 3.6 GPA in the fall of 2006. Beta Week raised almost $2,000 for Children’s Mercy Hospital of Kansas City. We continued our philanthropy by raising $6,000 for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Epsilon Lambda won its second consecutive Greek Week by a large margin. The beginning of the semester included an intramural basketball championship. We placed numerous members in leadership roles including IFC, Order of Omega and many other campus groups. — William Hotchkiss ’10, chapter president, 816-523-8275, [email protected]


MIT (ΒΥ)Beta Upsilon made signifi cant strides toward improving our infrastructure and securing the long-term

survival of our organization. Specifi cally, we fi nished reviewing and updating our bylaws and are in the process of ratifying our chapter constitution. Recruitment is our highest priority. We hosted countless men who were admitted to MIT and are excited to return in the fall to join the Chapter. Brothers spent the day at the Greater Boston Food Bank preparing meals. We have fi ve members registered to attend the John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle this summer and three more registered to attend the Peter F. Greiner Leadership College. — Victor S. Sinow ’08, chapter president, 415-846-1560, [email protected]


Summer 2007 39

Nebraska (ΑΤ)Alpha Tau continues to excel after the January initiation of 21 men. This new member class posted an outstanding

3.47 GPA, which helped the Chapter achieve an impressive 3.51. This placed the Chapter fi rst for grades during the fall term. Alpha Tau held the inaugural Beta Burrito Bash in the fall to benefi t SKIP, a summer program for children with incarcerated parents. The Chapter took part in the Big Event, a massive service event for the City of Lincoln and the surrounding area. The Chapter would like to congratulate Chapter Counselor Dr. Mike Wortman ’70 on his lifetime achievement award from the Nebraska Human Resources Institute. — Scott E. Hackman ’08, chapter president, 402-443-8909, [email protected]


North Carolina (Η)Eta brought in a total of 18 new members. The intramural soccer team won two championships for

indoor and outdoor soccer. Throughout the course of the year, many brothers became involved in the community through coaching Rainbow Soccer and the Big Buddy program. A philanthropy barbecue dinner was held to raise money for a local animal shelter. Angelo Coclanis ’09 is in Cuba for the semester through one of the few national study abroad programs permitted. This October will mark the dedication of the Chapter room to a very signifi cant family in the history of the Eta chapter house: the Barbee family. — David G. Carroll ’08, chapter president, 704-408-9967, [email protected]


North Dakota (ΓΚ)Gamma Kappa has a full advisory team,

stayed consistent with its high standard of academics and fi nished second among fraternities in GPA yet again. Recruitment is improving with the spring pledge class of fi ve being the largest since fall 2004. The Josh Cole Memorial Fund and other miscellaneous community service events were an overwhelming success. IFC President Zachary Smith ’08 is steering the Greek community in a positive direction. All of this directly signifi es the hard work of the members, new and old and leaves the future for the energetic chapter looking very bright. — Bryant R. Sombke ’08, secretary, 701-741-1871, [email protected]


Northwestern (Ρ)Rho embarked on a fundraising campaign for Northwestern’s

Dance Marathon to support epilepsy research. With Gamma Phi Beta sorority, we raised more than $17,000 for the event. Additionally, we held our annual Peanut Butter and Jelly service project with the Alpha Phi sorority and donated more than 600 sandwiches to the Campus Kitchens organization. Twenty of our pledges were initiated with a GPA of 3.4. — Michael S. Scheiber ’08, chapter president, 847-332-6629, [email protected]


Nova Southeastern (ΖΜ)Zeta Mu met and exceeded all of its goals in areas such as scholastics, risk management and community

service. Zeta Mu is full of charismatic, hard-working men who were vital in setting up and running major events on campus with other organizations and the University. Our chapter looks to be on track for the Sisson Award for the fi rst time in many years. This accomplishment will be the ultimate result of consistent time and effort put in by hardworking members. We are eagerly anticipating more great things from the Chapter in the coming year. — Evan T. Fish ’09, secretary, 954-805-3308, [email protected]


Ohio (ΒΚ)Beta Kappa recently elected a new executive board that breathed fresh air into our chapter. President Matthew

Spanulo ’09, Vice President Jeffrey Musser ’09, Treasurer Walter Williamson ’08, Recording Secretary John Fouser ’09 and Corresponding Secretary Russell Linder ’09. Eight pledges bring our membership to a total of 66. Beta Kappa repeated as the IFC all-sports champions. Grades are on the rise. We recently received a $250 check from a local bookstore because of our achievement as the most improved grades on campus in Greek life. — Russell A. Linder ’09 secretary, 330-401-7576, [email protected]


Ohio State (Θ∆)Theta Delta continued to grow and increased its focus on leadership, philanthropy, community service and

academics. The Chapter will send 15 undergraduates to leadership opportunities this summer. On May 5, the inaugural Beta Ball dodge ball tournament raised money for the American Cancer Society. In addition, the Chapter made a philanthropic donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society this past year. The Chapter placed second in fl ag football, basketball and fi rst in soccer and softball. Theta Delta undergraduates welcomed the General Fraternity Board of Trustees into Columbus for their spring meeting, celebrating the occasion with a banquet at Muirfi eld Country Club. — Matthew C. Ehrman ’09, chapter president, [email protected]


Oklahoma (ΓΦ)Gamma Phi placed second in grades with a 3.09 GPA for the fall 2006 semester. The new member class placed fi rst with a 3.15 GPA. University of

Oklahoma President Boren recognized the Chapter for its academic excellence during the annual president’s trophy ceremony. Many brothers volunteered countless hours with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program this past year. Kelly Mercer ’08 and Michael Purcell ’08 were both accepted into the PE-ET organization recognizing campus leaders. Bryan Luff ’08 chaired the second annual Frensley 5K memorial run, which raised more than $6,000 for the American Heart Association. With the initiation of 44 new members this spring the future of Gamma Phi looks strong in all areas. — Matthew K. Brown ’09, chapter president, 405-816-7288, [email protected]


Oklahoma State (ΓΛ)Gamma Lambda was given the Outstanding Scholarship and IFC

Intramurals trophies. The Chapter raised more than $9,000 for Relay For Life. Many brothers are involved in IFC, homecoming steering and a multitude of other campus organizations. The Chapter is organizing all Gamma Lambda alumni into a single database. We would like to share our accomplishments and general news with our cherished alumni as well as inform them of events. Please contact me so that your information can be added to the database. — Christopher L. Roy ’05, chapter president, 405-517-5011, [email protected]



Oregon (ΒΡ)Beta Rho worked hard, continuing to reach for the goals set through the Men of Principle initiative. Our

annual Miss Greek pageant brought the Greek community together on April 18 to raise money for Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Through this outstanding event, we were able to raise $5,200 for MADD. Spring recruitment brought 11 new members. — Christopher L. Roy ’05, chapter president, 405-517-5011, [email protected]


Penn State (ΑΨ)Did not submit report.

Advisors: 3 Convention: NoMembers: 47 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.00 RM: Satisfactory

Pennsylvania (Φ)Phi had an outstanding year in academics, campus involvement, recruitment and philanthropy. Our new members and initiates had

fall GPAs of 3.624 and 3.362, respectively, which surpassed the all-Greek average. Seven members of Phi reported 4.0 GPAs during the fall semester. Bren Darrow ’07 was president of the political organization, Penn Leads the Vote. Because of Darrow’s leadership, Penn’s student voter-registration was at a record high for both the University and all schools in Pennsylvania. Phi initiated 20 new members, bringing the Chapter total to 89. Philanthropy Chairman William Breedlove ’07 helped organize a charity event that raised several thousand dollars for Phase One. — Bruce C. Hogan ’09, secretary, 602-363-9862


Pepperdine (ΖΠ)Did not submit report.

Advisors: 4 Convention: Yes Members: 31 Finance: $1,082.18Academic: 2.73 RM: Unsatisfactory

Puget Sound (∆Ε)Delta Epsilon initiated 14 new members, all great potential leaders in our house. Vice President Ethan Taylor ’09 was

elected junior class senator for student government. Intramural teams placed second in basketball, fi rst in soccer and are competitive in every sport. Delta Epsilon continues to excel in academics, boasting the highest GPA of all fraternities on campus. The Chapter hosted a new 3-on-3 basketball tournament to benefi t AIDS research. — Adam J. Harvey ’09, chapter

president, 520-548-6008, [email protected]

Advisors: 5 Convention: No Members: 45 Finance: $415.74Academic: 3.09 RM: Unsatisfactory

Purdue (ΒΜ)Beta Mu undergraduates Bill McGlynn ’08, Nur Chapman ’08 and Brien Donahue ’08 were selected to Gimlet and will be seen on the sidelines

of next year’s athletic events. The alumni association raised more than $800,000 in order to complete Phase II of the housing renovations, which will add a third fl oor study room as well as renovations to select living quarters. The Chapter excelled in intramurals, grades and on-campus involvement. Beta Mu passed 2,200 members total. — Thomas A. Hollmaier ’08, secretary, 513-675-0164, [email protected]


Rhode Island (ΕΧ)Epsilon Chi welcomed 25 new members. During the semester, nearly $2,000 was raised for Cherish the Children Foundation,

Prevent Child Abuse America and the American Diabetes Association. We are involved in a transition of our executive boards. On April 21, we held the annual alumni golf tournament and formal, which brought back many new faces and overall it was a huge success overall. Members serve on IFC executive board, Student Senate and Real Estate Entrepreneurs. We look forward to strengthening our alumni communication with several events. — Brad K Bahler ’08, philanthropy, 267-980-2177, [email protected]


Saint Louis (ΖΤ)Zeta Tau received many honors from the Order of Omega including Most Distinguished Chapter for a third consecutive year.

The Chapter held an inaugural alumni golf event, which will become a tradition. Five men were initiated as new members. — Kevin O. Gueverra ’08, vice president, 847-962-7537, [email protected]


San DiegoFour seniors are in the Mortarboard and six other members are a part of Order of Omega. Our community service

efforts included the 2006 Building Bridges Dinner Project, which collected more than 1,400 unused student meal plans and used them to feed families during the holiday season. The Colony held a 3.278 GPA in the spring of 2007, the highest on campus. We are involved in the largest alumni outreach effort ever made by an undergraduate chapter. The Beta Toast, which is a tribute reception, was successful yet again. During the 168th General Convention, the charter for the Colony will be voted on. With our goal of chartering so close at hand, we look upon not what we accomplished but what we strive to do in the future. — Brady M. Johnson ’08, [email protected]


San Jose State (ΖΗ)Zeta Eta met with Director of Operations and Education Michael Wolford, Miami ’04, Miami ’04, Miamito assess how the General

Fraternity, chapter advisors and the undergraduate chapter can work together in the coming months. As of the authoring of this article, the Chapter is working directly with the General Fraternity to develop a game plan, the results of which will be put into action in fall 2007. The Chapter would like to thank Wolford and Leadership Consultant Josh Fairchild, Oklahoma State’05, for listening to the Chapter’s requests for more General Fraternity support.— Thomas M. Shess ’09, chapter president, 619-347-3284, [email protected]


Sewanee (ΓΧ)Gamma Chi accepted 10 outstanding Sewanee men into the folds of the Chapter. Various distinctive leadership positions around campus highlight the hard work of the undergraduates.

Matthew Pitner ’07 continued as chairman of the Disciplinary Committee and Chapter President Andrew Caffey ’07 was elected to head the IFC. In addition, fi ve of the 10 members of the University Honor Council are brothers. Nine Gamma Chi seniors graduated and will be missed by the Chapter and the Greek community.— Todd M. Cheewing ’07, 931-598-2838, [email protected]


South Dakota (ΓΑ)Gamma Alpha is beginning to

turn things around and get back to our

Summer 2007 41

feet. Recently we won the award for most improved chapter on campus. Christopher Barondeau ’09 won Most Outstanding President. Barondeau put countless hours into rebuilding Gamma Alpha into what it once was. The annual adopt-a-highway clean up was a successful community service for the chapter. Barondeau and Dirk Waite ’09 are both student senators. The newly recruited spring class of four new members is exciting for our future. We held our annual alumni dinner in which we had a very spectacular turnout. — Dirk C. Waite ’09, 605-380-6147, [email protected]


South Florida (ΖΒ)Zeta Beta is dedicated to excelling in leadership. Barclay Harless ’08 was elected

student body president. George (Bill) Hughes ’10 and Chris Rivera ’10 were both elected to the student senate. Anthony Valcarcel ’07 was appointed as the Safe Team director. The soccer team went undefeated and the basketball team went undefeated against the other Greeks in the league. Recruitment brought 13 pledges, the third highest pledge class among fraternities. — Michael L. Bowman ’08, 941-232-6162, [email protected]


Southern California (ΓΤ)Gamma Tau held the fi rst elections for positions since recolonization; this has been instrumental in running the

Colony smoothly. The fi rst pledge class has a 3.67 GPA. The fi rst formal was held at the Fairmont Hotel in Santa Monica and left a lasting impression with our dates. The Chapter continues to knit a strong brotherhood. We contributed many hours to several philanthropic events and raised more than $5,000 for Swim With Mike and nearly $1,000 toward Relay for Life. Next semester brings even more excitement as we will start a new academic year with the Gamma Tau house back. — Mounyroth C. Heng ’08, 864-590-3267, [email protected]


Southern Illinois (ΖΟ)While at the Midwest Keystone Regional

Leadership Conference, Zeta Omicron learned many valuable skill sets to help

improve and build the chapter and was recognized for having the most member participation in summer leadership development programs. Zeta Omicron and the women of Sigma Kappa sorority took second place for their act during the 60th

Annual Theta Xi Variety Show, which took weeks to prepare for. The Chapter built toy cars for children, painted and cleaned a church and participated in Relay for Life. Zeta Omicron is proud to have the most community service hours per active than any other chapter on campus. As always, recruitment was challenging but successful with fi ve well-rounded gentlemen. — David B. Kmetz ’07, 815-822-3839, [email protected]


Stevens (Σ)Sigma had very active members this past semester. Matt Reihl ’09 was awarded a scholarship by the American Society of Highway Engineers

(ASHE). Ryan Bennick ’08 served as an SGA senator and was the co-founder of the Stevens Finance Group. Bennick and Trevor Currie ’09 worked hard to publish the latest edition of the Sigma Slant. Zak Lenz ’08 was on the varsity wrestling team for Stevens, received the Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholar Award and was a member of the National Dean’s List. Ward Sandler ’08 was the co-founder of the Stevens Rugby Club. He served as an SGA senator and the president of the Entertainment Committee. Ryan Oelkers ’09 received the alumni scholarship.— Ward Sandler ’08, 201-216-3469, [email protected]


Tennessee (∆Κ)After fi nally settling into the new house, Delta Kappa started things off by initiating a large new member class

in Oxford, Ohio. Our second annual four-square tournament raised $3,290 for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. The Chapter achieving second place in among fraternity GPAs last fall. Delta Kappa received the Chapter of the Year award from the University. On November 4, the Chapter will celebrate its 40th Anniversary. The fundraising efforts to buy the house are paying off. — Darren S. Dunlap ’08, 615-305-0805, [email protected]


Texas (ΒΟ)Beta Omicron’s GPA increased 0.2 points.

There was a strong emphasis placed on participating in other organizations’ philanthropy events. The Chapter hosted its third annual golf tournament, which brought more than 50 actives, parents and alumni together. Ryan Taylor ’08 was elected to serve as Greek relations director for the IFC. Beta Omicron is very proud of its newly initiated members. The Chapter would like to recognize Bob Curtis ’77 for his continued support, especially in the area of recruitment. — Justin A. Kellogg ’07, 832-971-8574, [email protected]


Texas A&M (ΕΗ)Four members of our fall 2006 pledge class began their college careers with 4.0s this past fall: Austin Hodges ’10, Patrick Hodges ’10, Johnny

Nikmard ’10 and Christopher Weyand ’10. Todd Hunter Jr. ’08 was elected executive vice-president of the Texas A&M IFC. Madison Marceau ’08 was elected treasurer of the Kappa Rho chapter of Order of Omega. Epsilon Eta teamed up with the women of Pi Beta Phi sorority to participate in the Big Event, where each member completed four hours of community service for the Brazos Valley. In the upcoming semester, the Chapter will celebrate its 20th anniversary. — Madison C. Marceau ’08, house manager, 210-364-2384, [email protected]


Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (ΖΡ)Zeta Rho held the second annual alumni weekend; brothers turned out in large numbers, from roll

#1 to 119. Pledge Educator Seamus Nelson ’08 is SGA President and will take offi ce in the fall. This year we held our second annual Beta challenge, which includes a best t-shirt design award and a “Mr. Know-It-All” Beta lore competition. — Clint L. Johnson ’09, chapter president, 210-416-1418, [email protected]


Texas-Arlington (∆Ρ)Delta Rho initiated 15 members who are ready

to lead by example. The new brothers are motivated and we will be sending 10 to summer leadership opportunities. The Chapter received the highest grades with


an overall GPA more than a 3.0. This is the highest GPA on campus and 0.5 higher than the all-men’s average. Also, the Chapter held the 2nd annual Beta 500 and won both Greek Week and Spirit Week. Some of the individual Greek Awards that were won include Most Outstanding Chapter President (Daniel Ogle ’07), Most Outstanding New Member (Frank Perera ’08) and Most Outstanding Active Member (Nick Chappell ’08.) — Robert M. Haney ’08, secretary, 817-420-3968, [email protected]


Texas Tech (∆Μ)During the annual Relay for Life, Delta Mu paired with Pi Beta Phi sorority and raised approximately $3,000. Chapter President Ryan

Hays ’08 was elected treasurer of Order of Omega. Five others were initiated into the Order and 12 were initiated into Omicron Delta Kappa, the national honors fraternity. Taylor Hutcherson ’08 was elected external vice president of the student government. The Chapter fi nished second in intramurals. We initiated 32 members from the fall. — Nicholas D. Worley ’08, secretary, 214-695-6220. [email protected]


Toronto (ΘΖ)Theta Zeta ended the year with a 2.91 GPA. The Chapter was hosted a haunted house for the kids in the neighborhood and a can food drive on Halloween. We teamed with Phi Kappa

Sigma to hold an inaugural charity hockey game to the benefi t of Sick Kids Hospital. Recruitment was a success for the house this year as 13 new members were initiated. This surpassed the total from last year. — Nicholas V. D’Amico ’08, chapter president, 416-922-3566, [email protected]


Truman State (ΖΞ)Zeta Xi is proud to report that the Chapter was fi rst in grades among all 13 fraternities at Truman and surpassed the all-

male average with a chapter GPA of 3.36. We won a third straight intramural championship and several IFC awards including Best Philanthropy and Best Overall Chapter. Several brothers hold executive positions in other campus organizations. Zeta Xi is proud to announce

that Matthew Brawner ’07 accepted a position as a leadership consultant with the General Fraternity. More than 14 brothers will attend leadership opportunities this summer including 12 heading to The Wooden Institute. The Chapter is looking forward to working with alumni on a new capital campaign toward the eventual goal of owning a house. — Patrick C. Kilgore ’09, secretary, 314-803-0842, [email protected]


Utah (ΓΒ)Gamma Beta was honored to welcome fi ve new members after a successful spring recruitment period. The Chapter hosted the

Queen of Hearts Poker tournament, raising $4,000 for the Sharing Place, which is a family grief center. Teaming up with the Lied Boys and Girls Club, the Chapter hosted a carnival to which children of all ages came to participate in fun activities. Mike Halverson ’08 and David White ’09 were elected to IFC as president and operations chairman, respectively. — David A. White ’09, secretary, 801-580-0920, [email protected]


Vanderbilt (ΒΛ)Beta Lambda reached out to the community in many ways. In February, approximately 75% of the Chapter signed up and

participated in Dance Marathon, an all night philanthropic event that raised $162,915 for the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. Jamie Gnall ’07, Drew Brandewie ’07 and William Reiter ’08 were on the executive board of this event. The Chapter held several tailgate events to support Cassen Jackson-Garisson ’08, the starting running back for the Vanderbilt Commodores football team. — William D. Reiter ’08, 914-469-3302, [email protected]

Advisors: 2 Convention: NoMembers: 61 Finance: $0.00Academic: 3.35 RM: Satisfactory

Villanova (ΖΕ)Zeta Epsilon is happy to initiate 10 new spring members. The Chapter held its 16th Annual Beta Ducky

Race with Alpha Phi sorority. We would like to congratulate Brian Judge ’07 whose mock trial team placed 12th in a tournament held in Florida. John Von Euw ’08 is the SGA president. John will enter his second term as president, a feat that is not done often at Villanova. — Christopher J. David ’08, 516-650-2192, chapter president,

[email protected]


Virginia Tech (ΑΦ)Alpha Phi conducted the Chapter installation in February. The event

was planned and executed primarily by former chapter president David Campbell ’07 has joined the Administrative Offi ce staff as a traveling leadership consultant. Notable guests to the installation included General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63, Foundation Board Member S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73, and Associate Editor of The Beta Theta PiSteve Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06. Alpha Phi initiated 16 new members in the spring, placed third in the Hokie Grail intramural competition and won the award for Outstanding House Management. — Dylan A. Kiernan ’09, chapter president, 904-612-6846, [email protected]


Wabash (Τ)Tau was well above the all-campus GPA for the fall semester and we look forward to getting our fi nal grades for the spring. Outside of the classroom, Tau took several leadership roles.

Andrew Rodenbarger ’08 is president of the Sphinx Club, Rugby Club and serves on the Senior Council. Steve Egan ’09 joins Rodenbarger as a member of the Senior Council. Jay Horrey ’09 is president of College Democrats and treasurer of IFC. Brandon Stewart ’08 is editor of the Phoenixmagazine and was elected president of IFC. Andrew Zimmer ’08 earned all-conference in basketball and Bart Banach ’08 in track. Last, Tau held its annual mother’s lunch and its inaugural father’s lunch this past April. — Bart A. Banach ’08, chapter president, 219-765-8276, [email protected]


Washington (ΒΩ)Beta Omega directed its focus on philanthropy and community involvement. They placed second in Arrow Games, the largest

sorority philanthropy on campus. Next year looks promising for the chapter, with an expected new member class of 30. Beta Omega has the largest chapter on campus. With a 3.26 GPA, Beta Omega placed itself as one of the top three averages in the Greek System. This puts them above the all-Greek and all-campus averages. — John

Summer 2007 43

S. Banchero ’10, secretary, 916-812-3896, [email protected]


Washington & Jefferson (Γ)Did not submit report.


Washington-St. Louis (ΑΙ)Alpha Iota continues the tradition of Beta representation in high-ranking campus positions.

Marius Johnson ’09 is treasurer of Student Union, while David Ross ’09 is on his third consecutive term as the president of the class of 2009. Additionally, three undergraduates were chosen to compete in the Mr. Wash U Competition, a fundraising event that contributed more than $23,000 for a local charity. The Chapter paired once again with the women of Chi Omega to participate in the annual Thurtene Carnival, raising more than $3,000 for the George Washington Carver House. Lastly, Alpha Iota is proud to announce the initiation of yet another pledge class. — David J. Philips ’08, secretary, 314-608-9404, [email protected]


Washington State (ΓΘ)Did not submit report.


Wesleyan (ΜΕ)Mu Epsilon hit a record number of active brothers with 63. Three undergraduates were

inducted into the Economics Honors Society. AJ Taucher ’08 was awarded Special Teams Player of the Year on the football team. Taucher is the punter for the Cardinals and will be returning for his senior season next year. The Wesleyan lacrosse team, which has 31 brothers on the team, fi nished the season with a record breaking 18-3. — AJ Taucher ’08, secretary, 562-889-9514, [email protected]


West Chester (ΖΣ)Zeta Sigma fi nished the semester with a 2.78. The Chapter raised more than $2,400 for Camp Dreamcatcher. Chapter members completed more

than 300 hours of community service. We were honored as Greek Week champions for the second consecutive year. Trevor Haverluk ’08 won the new member of the year award and Brian Sand ’08 accepted the award for best web site. We received the interfraternalism award. We have two representatives on the IFC board as well as several resident advisors. Four new members were recently initiated. Zeta Sigma had a very successful semester in sports and fi nished second in basketball and undefeated in hockey. — Craig Merworth, chapter president, 484-695-4340, [email protected]

Advisors: 4 Convention: NoMembers: 38 Finance: $1,474.53Academic: 2.78 RM: Satisfactory

West Virginia (ΒΨ)Beta Psi initiated four new members in the spring. The Chapter placed an emphasis on reconnecting to the General Fraternity. As

a result, we committed to send nearly 20% of the Chapter to leadership opportunities. We emphasized improved alumni relations by hosting the alumni golf tournament and establishing a group of very capable advisors. The Chapter fi nished second in Greek Week. Brothers were elected treasurer of IFC and attorney general of SGA. We defeated all other student organizations in the University’s Week of Engagement, a contest to complete the most service hours in one week. Beta Psi logged more than 500 hours of community service. — John M. Mundy ’08, secretary, 304-421-2068, [email protected]


Western Ontario (∆Α)Delta Alpha removed a few brothers because of risk management issues to ensure that our members are completely committed to the seven obligations and

three great principles. We have a plan in place and we have no doubt we will exceed all expectations to get back on track. We initiated six new members. We look forward to a minimum 15-member pledge class this fall to ensure the strength of our chapter for years to come. — Mark J. Wellman ’08, chapter president, 519-636-2676, [email protected]


Westminster (Α∆)Alpha Delta initiated one of the best pledge classes on campus with a cumulative

GPA of 3.2. The Chapter raised more than $3,500 for a variety of charities including the American Cancer Society and USO

Care Packages during the new philanthropy week known as Beta Saves the World. Alpha Delta claimed second place in Intramurals for the fi fth consecutive year. — Brandon A. Schafer ’09, secretary, 573-592-5722, [email protected]


Whitman (ΓΖ)Did not submit report.


Wichita State (∆Γ)Delta Gamma increased its membership to 41 total members after the initiation of seven new members. There are

1,150 names in the roll book of Delta Gamma. The Chapter has a goal for next year of 40 new members. Additionally, the Chapter is continuing to expand its campus involvement, with members holding various offi ces on campus including SGA treasurer, senators, IFC treasurer, IFC secretary, IFC Greek relations chairman and Order of Omega president. The Chapter appreciates alumni involvement and hopes that alumni will stop in to the Chapter house when in the area. — Brian A. Hund ’08, chapter president, 316-640-4896, [email protected]


Willamette (ΓΣ)Gamma Sigma proudly boasts a GPA of 3.21, above the all-men’s average. Fifteen new

members joined the chapter, which is the highest initiated class in recent years. Five members including Paul Eldred ’10, Tyler Thompson ’09, Andrew Clark ’09, Joseph Gruber ’09 and Vice President Matthew Alex ’08, will represent the Associated Students of Willamette University. This semester Gamma Sigma won three Order of Omega awards including the Social Event of the Year award, President of the Year (Jeff Morris ’07) and the New Member of the Year (Paul Eldred ’10.) — Joseph E. Gruber ’09, chapter president, 209-969-3162, [email protected]


William & Mary (ΖΥ)Zeta Upsilon fi nished the year with some remarkable achievements and contributions to the

college. The College Charity Bowl, our

philanthropy event, raised approximately $5,000 for the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation. The Chapter was given the Award for Achievement in Scholarship. We established housing policy for our new home. Seventeen exceptional men were initiated into the Chapter. We are proud of our members who serve the College outside of Beta in positions such as the CFA president, Order of Omega president and senators from the Student Assembly, the Honor Council, Residence Life, ROTC and many other respectable extra-curricular endeavors. — Andrew D. Leyes ’10, secretary, 719-271-1074, [email protected]


Wisconsin (ΑΠ)Alpha Pi entered two teams into intramural basketball, both of which enjoyed tremendous success. Eric Vita gave a compelling

speech a campus-wide need to increase diversity and tolerance. Alpha Pi continues to make remarkable log many community service hours. The house on Lake Mendota looks better every year after a newly installed beach. The Chapter GPA exceeds the all men’s average. — Jon A. Gaynor ’10, [email protected]


Wisconsin-Oshkosh (ΖΖ) Zeta Zeta showed vast academic

improvement by winning the Most Improved GPA award and coming in second overall. The Chapter boasts the Reeve Advisory Council president, IFC president, two IFC vice presidents, the Student Association president, vice president and speaker of the assembly. The Chapter raised $550 fi rst during the Annual Red Dragon Formal this year donated to the Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Center. The Chapter plans to recruit tirelessly through the summer and anxiously awaits the alumni vs. active softball outing to be held early this September. — Benjamin D. Thornsberry ’07, chapter president, 651-269-8983, [email protected]


Wittenberg (ΑΓ)Alpha Gamma’s hard work paid off. We initiated 12 new members into the

Chapter compared to last year’s eight. The Chapter compared to last year’s eight. The

Wittenberg Torch awarded us the “Best Fraternity on Campus.” The Chapter was honored to host such guests as University President Mark Erickson and Dean Carolyn Perkins. Our annual alumni dinner gathered more than 100 alumni, parents and faculty. — Daniel J. Zeleznik ’09, chapter president, 937-324-4137, [email protected]


Yale (ΦΧ)Phi Chi had an outstanding year in reestablishing our brotherhood. Kevin Pudas ’07 was a member of the varsity swim team and Alfred Shikany ’07

was on the varsity crew team. Former Chapter President Adam Clark-Joseph ’07 received the highly competitive Gates scholarship. Phi Chi held a successful reunion in February, commemorating our reinstallation. Seeing brothers from the early 1990s reminded us of our long and continued presence on campus. — Samuel H. Strausser ’08, chapter president, 202-412-4256, [email protected]

Advisors: 1 Convention: Yes Members: 35 Finance: $7,514.81Academic: 2.74 RM: Unsatisfactory

Summer 2007 45

ALABAMAWilson Boardman ’10Will Evans ’10Tyler Poston ’07

ARIZONAGregory Allen ’09Dan Bollum ’07Jan Weichsel ’09

AUBURNMitchell Alvarez ’09Scott Barry ’08Mark Chuckney ’10Ben Davidson ’07Brian Dilworth ’08Parker Fowler ’06Nick Gonzalez ’07Tom Hall ’07John Mark Rives ’08

CALIFORNIA-IRVINESung-Woo Um ’07

CALIFORNIA-LOS ANGELESAustin Copp ’07David Gluckman ’08Ryan Hall ’07Tim Han ’08Chase Raymond ’09

CARNEGIE MELLONMatt Adams ’08Ramsey Arnold ’09Clayton Crites ’09Vinny Giacalone ’09Joshua Kresge ’10Aaron Lewis ’07Gregory Pitts ’09James Rogers ’07Steve Springer ’08

CASE WESTERN RESERVEJoseph Schroeder ’10Matthew Tyrrell ’09Jonathan Weis ’10

CENTRAL FLORIDANeil Braslow ’09Clint Curvin ’10Julian Edelschick ’07Jason Holic ’08Mark Schaal ’09Grant Schnell ’09

CINCINNATIBilly Clifton ’09Jake Reed ’07

CLEMSONMatthew Evans ’09Joshua Lee ’06Andrew Meredith ’09Danny Soileau ’08Brett Wise ’08

COLORADO MINESChristopher Siok ’10

COLORADO STATEJonathan Higgins ’08Wilson Lawrence ’07Christopher Rothschild ’09Joseph Tedesco ’08Bradon Wadas ’07

CONNECTICUTSteven Atkins ’08Jordan Roberts ’07

DEPAUWGregory Giometti ’10Alex Troxel ’10

EAST CAROLINADakshesh Patel ’09

EASTERN KENTUCKYDonald Bell ’08William Bowling ’08Bradley Harn ’09Joshua Turner ’07

EASTERN WASHINGTONRussell Knight ’07

EMORYAbhinav Gupta ’08Ian Whittle ’08

FLORIDAAaron Clossey ’10Jeffrey Friedberg ’10Steve Greene ’07Cullan Jones ’07Nicholas Lancaster ’10Marshall Printy ’08Chad Seibel ’08Adam Smith ’10Josh Smith ’08Jason Thorburg ’08Eric Walther ’08Drew White ’08Nicholas Zaitlik ’10

GEORGE WASHINGTONAlexander Foster ’08

GEORGIADrew Brownlee ’08Trent Culbertson ’09John Howell III ’07Connor McCarthy ’10Jeffrey Mitchell ’06

GEORGIA TECHAaron Bivins ’07Patrick Cook ’07William Gifford ’07Michael Levy ’10Brandon Miller ’06Clay Morgan ’07Jason Pociask ’08Jacob Robinson ’08Brandon Tubandt ’08Chad Waters ’07

IDAHOCasey Attebery ’10Behren Aydt ’10Ken Henderson ’08Jesse Johnson ’09Mark Morgan ’10Jim Nowierski ’07Nick Parker ’07Tommy Sauriol ’10

IOWAMatthew Schill ’09Matthias Franzen ’08

IOWA STATEMatt Martin ’10

KANSASNicholas Barnthouse ’08Peter Curzon ’08Benjamin Geheb ’07Bryan Hay ’08Ryan Ingle ’09Bret Johnson ’08Phillip Linville ’09Brian Reynolds ’08Lucas Thompson ’07Andrew Winetroub ’08Alan Schurle ’10Tyler Smith ’10David Wilcox ’10

KANSAS STATEDenton Bailey ’10Shane Fiser ’10Marcus Geist ’09Matthew Hewitt ’09Nick Jasso ’09Pat Smith ’09Matt King ’07Jim Mosimann ’08Brad Scheu ’07

KNOXZach Lenox ’07

LAWRENCEEric Armour ’06Dan Hertel ’09

MAINENiklas Berce ’07Joshua Fortier ’07

MIAMIChris Collier ’09Scott Endicott ’08Brad Kuhn ’09James Phero ’09Alex Tipton ’09Paul Wagoner ’07Jake Whelan ’07

MICHIGANAlexander Kapordelis ’09

MINNESOTAHarvey Buron ’07David Hopps ’10Calvin Stocker ’09

MISSISSIPPIWilliam Fuller ’08Richard Hankins ’09Ryan Hibbard ’07Scott Stewart ’09

MISSOURIAndy Chuu ’09Clayton Spoeneman ’10Benjamin Stafford ’07Kyle Steele ’08

MISSOURI-KANSAS CITYMichael Amini ’07Alex Barrett ’09Scott Beeler ’10Steven Cohen ’07Jared Halpin ’08George Lewitt ’07Christopher Smith ’10Benjamin Wiele ’10

MITJoseph Goldbeck ’07Michael Haimes ’09Adam Paxson ’09

NEBRASKAScott Barker ’10Rishi Batra ’09Drew Dietle ’09Drake Doolittle ’09Corey Georgesen ’10Scott Hackman ’08James Haynes ’10Andrew Hibbert ’09Zach Martens ’06John Palmtag ’09Andrew Spitsnogle ’09Russell Swan ’07Thomas Wanek ’10

NORTH DAKOTAMatthew Freidel ’08Brian Kniert ’07Justin Pace ’07Bryant Sombke ’08

NORTHWESTERNJason Cassiday ’06Zachary Galin ’07David Leuchter ’07Samir Mayekar ’06

OKLAHOMAJoseph Allen ’07Matthew Brown ’09Chris Chase ’10Theo Coleman ’08Daniel Cooper ’07Robbie Crosier ’07Brian Dude ’06Andrew Dunlevy ’08John Gawey ’09Charles Graves ’08Sean Harrison ’10Hunter Hoelscher ’08 Scott Hollingsworth ’08Spencer Kinzie ’10Derrick Lippert ’07Adrian Maurer ’08Charles McMahon ’08

Matthew Mitzner ’07Kendall Moore ’08William Prueitt ’10Bren Schmidt ’07Brad Scoggin ’09James Tate ’10David Welk ’10

OREGONJoel Arellano ’08

PENN STATEMichael Parachini ’09

PENNSYLVANIABryce Albin ’10Rob Brekelmans ’10Bren Darrow ’07Greg Hollander ’10Alex Lambert ’09Collin Peterson ’08Caleb Rosenberg ’10

PURDUELarry Burns III ’07David Harrison ’07Brett Haywood ’10

SAINT LOUISMichael Barich ’08Ryan Graue ’07Adam Hoffman ’08

SAN DIEGOGeoff Appleyard ’07Dan Lepore ’09

SAN JOSE STATEJoshua Peterson ’06

SOUTH DAKOTAChristopher Barondeau ’09

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIAClayton Au-Yeung ’08Mark Denny ’09Steven Gaughan ’10Mounyroth (Chris) Heng ’08Matt Morris ’10

SOUTHERN ILLINOISMiles Bardell ’07Gregory Beckman ’07Andrew Dennhardt ’10

STEVENSTrevor Currie ’09

TEXASEugene Stone III ’09

TEXAS A&MAustin Hodges ’10Patrick Hodges ’10Roberto Murillo ’07Johnny Nikmard ’10Chris Weyand ’10

TEXAS-ARLINGTONDaniel Ogle ’07Bryce Oliver ’06Wisaroot Thamwiwat ’09

The Beta Theta Pi proudly salutes the following 282 collegians who The Beta Theta Pi proudly salutes the following 282 collegians who The Beta Theta Piearned a 4.0 GPA during the fall 2006 semester or quarter.

Fall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0sFall 4.0s

TRUMAN STATEMatthew Brawner ’07Joseph Buterbaugh ’08Kyle Bybee ’07Bryan Campbell ’07Daniel Dubois ’07Dane Guempel ’08Eric Hansen ’09Joseph Higgins ’09Adam Hoskins ’08Adam Kabins ’08Austin Rupp ’10Matthew Safl ey ’08Timothy Sitton ’09Thomas Smith ’08Brian Snyders ’07John Sturgeon ’08Ryan Wills ’07

UTAHRobert Stedman ’08

VANDERBILTNick Burjek ’08

VILLANOVASteven Bellizzi ’08Steven Noto ’08

VIRGINIA TECHDanny Raynes ’10Steven Reed ’09Tilghman Shamer III ’07

WASHINGTON IN ST. LOUISKenneth Kline ’08Shawn Lu ’07David Phillips ’08

WASHINGTON STATEKyle Christel ’08

WEST VIRGINIAEric Lawrence ’07

WESTERN ONTARIORaheem Jindani ’07Mark Wellman ’08Ian Taylor Townley ’10Kyle Ardiel ’

WESTMINSTERBrandon Schafer ’09

WICHITA STATEBrian Hund ’08Brandon Scheer ’08Ahmaida Zeglam ’08

WISCONSINMax Lord ’07


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AlabamaFife, John F. (Fred) ’69, May 5. He was an ordained Presbyterian minister for 35 years and, at the time of his death, served as pastor of Temple Terrace Church in Tampa, Fla. Survived by wife Carol and son Jason.Wylie, David R. ’74, April 10. He was an attorney and expert in workplace safety, especially helping those in the poultry industry. He practiced law with Jackson Lewis LLP, one of the nation’s largest labor and employment fi rms in the U.S.. Wylie was frequently called upon to speak before groups about business employment and labor issues. He was active in social organizations. He was listed in The Best Lawyers in America for employment and labor. Survived by wife Mary Anne, and daughters Mary and Elizabeth.

AmherstKerr, Richard F. (Dick) ’44, Feb.1. He was an accomplished pianist prior to enlisting in the Army

including Allertech, an allergy lab-testing company and Image Guided Technologies, a medical technology company later sold to Styker for $14 million. Survived by wife Paula, daughter Jennifer and son Cameron.

BaylorFranklin, Charles C. (Court) ’07, April 13. Result of a gunshot wound. He was scheduled to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering this year. A member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Dean’s list, he served as chaplain for three years and hosted weekly Bible studies. He had a passion for the rodeo, winning many team-roping awards and owned horses. Franklin served as a veterinary assistant for his father during breaks and summer. He completed an internship with TAC Engineering Solutions of Dallas and had accepted a position with the fi rm after graduation in May. Survived by his parents, sister and two brothers.

BeloitMacGregor, George H. ’50, April 1. Beta father Alfred H., Chicago (dec.)

BowdoinDay, Donald C. ’49, Dec. 13.

British ColumbiaWhite, Denis R.T. ’51, April 6. He had a distinguished career in business and volunteer work. He worked for a number of Canadian corporations including General Electric, Alcan Aluminum, Imasco and Lake Ontario Cement. After retiring he spent 11 years as executive director of the CICBV and had his own consulting practice. He had a great interest in travel and wines. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Peggy, daughter Margot, son Andrew and seven grandchildren. Beta brothers Patrick ’46 and William ’48

BrownBlish, John H. ’59, Feb. 11. Survived by wife Edith.

California-BerkeleyHoward, Raymond W. ’48, April 26. He served in the Navy during WWII. Howard worked in several sales positions with increasing responsibilities for Air Reduction Company. He began selling Eveready batteries and fl ashlights, and ended as a sales manager. Howard then purchased Lucky Charm Mfg., a producer of one-key tags supplied to car dealerships. He developed, patented and sold innovative and well-recognized products. Howard’s children have been active in the business for more than 30 years of the now named Lucky Line Products, Inc. He was very active in his community. Howard was an avid traveler and enjoyed skiing and scuba diving. Survived by wife Helen, daughter Jan and sons Greg and Brent, and four grandchildren.

California-Los AngelesJohnson, Donald E. ’50, March 11. He was a business agent. Johnson was governor of the California Chapter of the Mayfl ower Society (1991-99.) Survived by wife (of 42 years) Shirley. Beta brother Harland ’47.

Carnegie MellonSmith, Richard E. ’57, Nov. 26. He played trombone in the band and was a hurdler and ran track during college. Smith served as chapter president (1956-57.) He worked for the U.S. Corps of Army Engineers for 47 years. For more than 40 years, he was active in community theater—acting, singing and designing/building sets. Survived by wife (of 20 years) Jane, son Benjamin, three stepchildren and eight grandchildren.

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during WWII. He was a sergeant in Air Transport Command and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Oak Leaf Cluster. He was employed by Federated Department Stores for 32 years, where he was infl uential in developing many of the national consumer credit policies and practices. Kerr traveled extensively during his life, twice to China and a total of six continents. Survived by wife (of 59 years) Dorothy, daughter Cynthia, son Bradford, Beta son Matthew (Emory ’80) and six grandchildren.

Ball StateRay, Paul L. (Dick) ’69, Jan. 4. He was a member of the fi rst pledge class at Ball State University. His death came less than six months after he won a lifetime achievement award from the Colorado BioScience Assoc. for his contribution to the State’s biotech and medical device industries. Over the years, Ray founded or co-founded several startup companies

Owen S. Williams Mystic ShrineTorontoMystic ShrineMystic Shrine ’50Mystic Shrine

On Wednesday evening, June 20, Owen S. Williams, Toronto ’50 quietly passed away at his home in Toronto, following an eight- month battle with cancer. He was 84.

Williams served on the Beta Theta Pi Foundation Board of Directors from 1995 to 2002. He was chapter counselor for Theta Zeta for more than 25 years, has been president of the chapter house corporation since 1976 and was chief of District IV, 1963-67. Former treasurer and president of Theta Zeta Alumni Association, Williams was vice president of three Beta General Conventions and chaired the 50th, 75th and 90th Theta Zeta anniversary banquets. He was a recipient of the Fraternity’s Oxford Cup in October 2000, and received the Francis W. Shepardson award at last summer’s convention in Toronto.

He served on the North Atlantic convoy routes in HMCS Hepatica, HMCS Buctouche and HMCS Annapolis, later pursuing an academic career at Seneca College of AA&T, Ryerson University and as a fi eld faculty professor of Norwich University, Vermont.

Williams was a founding and life member of the Naval Offi cers’ Association of Canada (Toronto Branch), Member of Fort York Branch #165 Royal Canadian Legion, BVSC, YDGOC, life member and committee member of Hart House, University of Toronto, and chairman of the Soldiers’ Tower Committee. He was a recipient of the 125th Anniversary of Confederation and Queen’s 50th Jubilee medals for public service. Chief of Naval Staff’s commendation 1997 for service to the Canadian Navy.

Survived by sons Kevin and Brian, daughters Sheila and Mary Ellen, fi ve grandchildren and long-time friend J. Moyra Haney. A remembrance to the fraternity leadership program would be most appreciated to – Beta Theta Pi Foundation of Canada, Treasurer, L.M. Saunders, 269 Rumble Ave., Richmond Hill, ON L4C 4G1.

Summer 2007 47

Mystic ShrineMystic ShrineMystic ShrineCase TechBahniuk, Eugene ’50, May 24. He was an Army fi rst lieutenant WWII veteran. He was a mechanical engineer, inventor and professor emeritus. He taught engineering at Case Western Reserve for more than 25 years. He patented innovations in jet engines, pumps, turbines, fl ow meters, engines, valves and even the automobile cruise control mechanism. His tests on ski binding systems led to industry wide design improvements that have saved thousands of skiers from leg injuries. For his contribution to the ski industry, he received the 1988 Merit Award from the American Society of Testing and Materials. He enjoyed skiing, playing softball and fl ying. He was active on the board of trustees until his death. During his retirement, he was working on a new concept and design of a more effi cient internal combustion gasoline engine. Survived by wife (of 30 years) Margaret; daughters Joy, Barbara and Becky; son David; Beta son Douglas ’79, and 11 grandchildren.Geisheimer, Fred ’51, May 30. He was a member of Hillcrest 100 Inc., Silver Wings and American Legion No. 104. Survived by wife Rosemary, daughter Kris, sons Kurt and Ken, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

CentreBrooking, John R.S. ’53, Dec. 24. He was a Navy veteran of the Korean War. In 1999, he formed the law fi rm of Brooking, Brooking & Kendrick with his son, Brook. He was instrumental in the start of Northern Kentucky University and helped establish the foundation. Brooking was infl uential in moving the Chase School of Law. Survived by wife Charlotte, daughters Susan and Annie, and son Brook. Beta father Harry (dec.)

CincinnatiMartz, Guy A. Jr. ’55, May 10. He worked in research & development for Procter & Gamble while earning an engineering degree. Martz served in the Army Ordnance Corps as a fi rst lieutenant. He then joined Worthington Corp., as a process engineer. Martz became a consultant with Booz, Allen & Hamilton before being named plant manager for Church & Dwight. He was then vice president for traffi c and distribution for Rich Products. Martz was co-owner and chief fi nancial offi cer of Cady Lifters. Survived by wife (of 22 years) Susan, stepdaughter Wendy, sons Guy III and Stewart, and seven grandchildren.Porter, Harry T. Jr. (Tom) ’45, March 25. He served as a gunnery offi cer in the Navy during WWII. He became active in civic affairs and was a longtime councilman and mayor of Wyoming, Ohio. Porter was the owner of the H.T. Porter Company, an engineering consulting and equipment sales business. After retiring, he and his wife traveled the world and spent the last 19 winters at their home in Naples, Fla., where he was active in the alumni chapter. Survived by wife (of 61 years) Connie, son Bill, Beta sons John, Colgate ’74 and Thomas, Alabama ’80, and fi ve grandchildren.

ColgateJones, Robert H. ’47, April 1. He was chapter president. Jones served a three-year duty as a fi rst lieutenant with the Navy during WWII and later recalled to duty during the Korean confl ict. Beta brother Ralph ’52.

ColumbiaRead, Myron ’38, Oct. 29. He was employed in the copper and gypsum industries, rising from miner to plant manager. He was an instructor at Colorado School of Mines and taught instrumentation, math and science at Edison Tech high school for 18 years. During retirement, he served as a volunteer for local museums and community theater. Survived by wife (of 67 years) Alison, daughter Jennifer, sons Dennis and Nicholas, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Wedemeier, Steven ’52, March 29. He was an Air Force veteran and an insurance executive. Survived by wife Eleanor, daughters Lorri and Stephanie, and six grandchildren.

DartmouthBrown, J. Moreau III ’39, Feb.10. (see right sidebar)Schumacher, Charles H. ’44, April 9. He was a fi rst lieutenant in the Army Air Corp during WWII. He was an employee of the Diamond Match Co., for 30 years. Survived by wife (of 60 years) Fern and two grandsons. Thomas, Dr. Charles W. (Chuck) ’73, May 10. He played football and baseball during college. Thomas suffered a heart attack while on the job in the emergency room at Norwegian-American Hospital in Chicago. In 1999, he helped start Emergency Care Physician Services, which contracts with hospitals for emergency room care. The goal is to effi ciently provide quality care for the poor and uninsured, who use it for primary-care services. Survived by wife Terri, and stepchildren Richard and Janice Yak.

DavidsonIsom, Col. Charles D. Jr ’40, Nov. 11. He was a veteran of WWII and served in the Army for 37 years. Isom retired as a colonel. Survived by wife Emily, daughters Dolly and Isabella, stepchildren, 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

DenisonPrasse, Richard R. (Dick) ’54, Dec. 15. Survived by wife Mutzie, sons R. Randolph and Dale, and three grandchildren.

DenverJohnson, Walter K. ’48, Feb. 13. He was an investment executive for Paine Webber. Survived by wife Shirley and daughter Vicki.

DukeHerrick, John W. ’49, March 7.

FloridaButler, Mark D. ’29, Feb. 10 at the age of 98. He still wore his “Gator” cap proudly.

Georgia TechKempton, Robert S. Sr. ’42, March 27. He served in the Navy during WWII and the Korean War. He was owner and president of Fence Supply Corp. He was an avid fi sherman and enjoyed traveling. Survived by wife Elizabeth; daughter Suzanne; sons Robert, Jeffrey and William; 10 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.Miller, Eugene K. Jr. ’39, March 15. Beta brother John, Penn State ’51.

HanoverMartin, Dr. Loren H. ’34, March 29. He served his country during WWII as a captain and fl ight surgeon in the Army Air Corps. He was a family doctor for more than 50 years, delivered more than 5,000 babies during his practice. Martin was recognized by the Methodist Hospital Staff as a distinguished teacher and for his outstanding contribution in medical education. During the 1960s, he hosted a public service television show entitled “Ask Your Doctor.” Survived by daughters Suzanne and Melissa, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

IllinoisTruitt, Robert H. (Bob) ’50, Jan. 31.

IndianaFoster, James S. ’49, April 3. He was an Army veteran of WWII. He was a partner in the law fi rm Earnest, Foster, Eder and Levi and practiced law in Rushville, Ind., for his entire professional

career. Foster served as county prosecutor from 1952-56, then as a general civil and criminal law attorney until 1996. Survived by wife Ruth Ann, daughter Ann, sons William and James, and four grandchildren. Beta uncle William (dec.)Mellinger, Frank J. ’41, Aug. 10, 2006. He served in the Army during WWII. He became an agent with the Lincoln National Life Insurance and was a general agent for the Akron offi ce. Mellinger was very involved with the Boy Scouts of America, receiving the Silver Beaver award in 1972. Survived by daughters Mary Jo and Terry Anne and three grandchildren. Preceded in death by wife (of 50 years) Jerry.Pierre, Giles J. ’31, Oct. 4. He was a longtime Fort Wayne lawyer and former associate city attorney. Pierre was a founding member of Opportunities Inc., chartered to employ the severely handicapped. He was involved in the Boy Scouts of America. Survived by daughter Suzanne, sons David and Steve, and four grandchildren. Scott, Dr. Frank M. ’34, April 15. He was president of the undergraduate senior class and the Chapter. He interned at University Hospital in Indianapolis. He worked at a clinic in Shelbyville and then as a surgeon in the South Bend Clinic. He served two terms as chief of surgery and two terms as president of staff at Memorial Hospital. He was certifi ed by the American Board of Surgery and was elected into the American College of Surgeons and served as president of the Indiana chapter. Survived by daughter Barbara, son William, one grandson and one great-granddaughter. Beta brothers I. Winfi eld (dec.) and William (dec.), and grandson David, Lawrence ’99.

J. Moreau Brown IIIDartmouth ’39

Moreau served as chapter president (1938-39) and remained a loyal Beta supporter and active participant in alumni activities. He

was appointed district chief in 1956 and served as General Secretary of the Fraternity (1960-63.) He spent his career in education administration as the fi rst director of admissions at St. Lawrence and managed the educational support programs for the General Electric Co. He then joined Financial Education as vice president before retiring to California. Survived by daughters Christine, Pamela and Mallory, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

IowaSchleuger, Robert L. ’59, Sept. 23. He worked for the State of Illinois Public Health Dept. for 34 years and Vandeavantor Engineering. He was a marshal at Stonewolf Golf Course and was a past president of St. Clair chapter of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers. Survived by wife Peg, daughters Paula and Laura, and one grandson.

Iowa StateSmalley, James B. ’51, March 13. Smalley was commissioned into the Navy and served on the destroyer USS Haynsworth. His degree in animal science was useful as he farmed for a number of years, raising crops and feeding cattle and hogs. Smalley later went into the construction business


Mystic Shrineinstalls custom closet and storage cabinets. Campbell was an avid golfer until he turned 90 and resided in Middletown for 68 years. Survived by daughter Dana, son Larry, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.Henry, Dale C. ’38, April 23. He served in the Army 101st Airborne Division. Henry farmed the home place and was a manager of the grain elevator in Bowersville, Ohio. He was a HUD housing inspector for the City of Dayton. Survived by sons Larry and Donald, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.Robinson, Thomas S. ’50, Nov. 22.

MichiganCarlson, Steven H. ’69, Feb. 3. He retired as lieutenant colonel from the Army in 1993. He then worked as a civil engineer in support of the Army Reserves. The last eight months of his life, he was working with FEMA helping Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts in New Orleans. Survived by wife Nancy, daughter Jennifer, son Michael, stepchildren Elizabeth and Kenneth, and seven grandchildren. Ohrt, Henry N. ’40, Nov. 26. He served with the Navy during WWII. He received an MBA and was a former partner of the Photographic Bookkeeping Service in Kingsley, Mich. Survived by son Charles and three grandchildren. Beta brother John (dec.)

MississippiBusby, Dr. Paul H. ’36, Feb. 7. He was a dental offi cer with the Army Air Corps., during WWII, obtaining the rank of captain. Busby practiced dentistry in Jackson for 40 years. He enjoyed many civic and service clubs in the community. Survived by wife (of 60 years) Virginia, daughter Patricia and two grandchildren. Beta brother Dr. William Jr. (dec.)

MissouriEkern, H.N. (Bert) ’43, March 9. He was a Navy veteran of WWII. He was the chapter president (1943-44) and received a mechanical engineering degree. Ekern was a rancher and feedlot operator. Survived by daughter Jo Wynn, son Paul, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Beta brothers H.Peter ’55, William ’44 (dec.) and George ’53 (dec.)Beta nephews Nigel, Dartmouth ’87; Kirk ’87; William ’72, and Anderson ’83. Truog, Morton D. (Bud) ’35, Feb. 26. He worked in the fi lm industry with United Artists for more than 40 years. After retirement, he was an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels. Survived by daughters Karen and Dorothy, fi ve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Beta relatives Daniel (dec.) and Frederick, Kansas State ’63.

MITBenson, Lee A. Jr. ’43, March 27. Survived by wife Genevieve; daughters Jinn, Joan and Mary Jean; sons Lee and Robert; 20 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

NebraskaFoley, James P. ’55, April 7. He had a long successful career in fi nance and investments. His passions were family, friends and golf. Survived by wife Anne, daughter Chrysa, son Dr. James, Beta son Thomas ’84, and six grandchildren. Swanson, William F. ’47, Jan. 23. He was chapter counselor (1963-65,) house corporation president (1997-2000,) advisor, chairman of reunions and secretary of the Board of Regents.

North CarolinaRoberts, Landon ’42, April 28. He was a Navy veteran of WWII. Roberts began a legal career in Asheville with Smathers and Meekins, which changed to Roberts & Stevens. In 2005, he was made a Justice Fund honoree by the North

Carolina Bar Assoc. Survived by wife (of 56 years) Jean, daughters Anne and Kate, and three grandchildren.

NorthwesternHiggins, Herbert M. Jr. ’49, Jan. 5. He served with the Navy during WWII on the USS Pensacola. He began a sales career in Chicago and joined the advertising staff of Time in the 1960s in Pittsburgh, and later Charlotte, N.C. Higgins encouraged and mentored young people, and had recently taken great delight in volunteering as a tutor at the Presbyterian Home for Children. Survived by wife (of 55 years) Nancy; daughter Jane; sons David, Mark and Stephen, and six grandchildren. Hough, Ernest S. ’35, May 14. He managed the University football team and was president of the Chapter. He owned several manufacturing enterprises, even fl ying his own plane for business purposes. Later, he worked as an accountant with Abex Corp. in Oxnard. He was very active in his community. Survived by daughter Jane, son Al, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Kieser, Richard D. ’53, Feb. 3.

OhioBiddison, Jack C. ’44, April 8. Beta father Claudius (dec.)Davis, Col. Richard G. (Dick) ’51, March 25. During college, he played all four years of football as halfback. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant through the ROTC program. Davis served as an Air Force pilot for 30 years (1951-81.) Serving in Viet Nam as a forward air controller, he was twice awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in combat and twice honored with the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement in combat. He served with the Florida Dept. of Corrections as a probation and parole offi cer for 10 years. He was an avid fi sherman, hunter and golfer. Survived by wife Janice; daughter Kathy; sons Richard, Robert and David, and 12 grandchildren.Gibbs, Richard J. ’41, March 20. He served in WWII. Survived by daughters Elizabeth, Ladema and Mary. Kreim, Kristopher D. ’08, Feb. 3.

Ohio StateBach, Michael D. ’62, Oct. 13.

OklahomaHart, Walter D. ’38, March 18. He was a war hero who served as company commander of a tank destroyer battalion. He was a prominent attorney and civic leader, serving his community and the Boy Scouts of America. Hart was a member of the Oklahoma Bar Assoc. for more than 60 years. Survived by wife Lucille; daughters Charlotte, Anastasia, Lucinda and Laura; son Simon; 12 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Beta son W. Dean Jr. ’66, brother Jack ’35 (dec.) and nephews Edward Flinn III, MIT (dec.) and John Newbern ’80.Lunsford, Robert L. III (Bob) ’43, Feb. 24. He was a captain in the Army during WWII and the Korean confl ict. He was educated in law but was primarily a banker, working in several areas including Hawaii. Survived by wife Julie; sons John, Peter and David, and two grandchildren. Beta brother Tom ’44.

OregonReams, Brian S. ’07, March 4. (see left sidebar)

Penn StateBallantyne, W. James Jr. ’42, March 22. He was a native of Pittsburgh. Ballantyne worked for US Steel/Reactive Metals Inc., Van Huffel Tube Co. and Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel. Survived by daughter Linda, son James, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

as owner and operator of Smalley Construction Co. He was an avid gardener, woodworker, birdwatcher and sailor. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Beth, daughter Kathryn, son Thomas and three grandchildren.

KansasMcEvers, Richard M. ’53, May 14. He served in the Army. McEvers earned a master of science degree in business and moved to California. He had a career in human resources administration. He enjoyed golf, snow and water skiing, camping and taking cruises. Survived by wife Judi, daughter Diane, sons Greg and Neal, and fi ve grandchildren. Beta father John (dec.) and Beta brother Robert (dec.)

Kansas StateBrady, Joseph J. (Joe) ’50, March 11. He was a WWII Navy veteran. Brady was founder and president of Brady Nursery Inc., and was a leader in the horticultural industry. For 25 years, he was host of the Gard’n Wise Show, a local television

Brian S. ReamsOregon ’07

Brian Sanford Reams, 22, of Pocatello, Idaho, died March 4 after a car struck him in a hit-and-run collision. Reams was a junior at the University of Oregon where he was recruitment chairman for the

Chapter. Under his guidance, the Chapter doubled the previous year’s pledge class size. A memorial fund was established in his name for the construction of a gymnasium at Holy Spirit Catholic Community Church. In lieu of fl owers, donations may be made to the Brian S. Reams Memorial Fund (718 South Second Avenue Pocatello, ID 83201). His charisma lit up a room, his loyalty strengthened the chapter and his commitment to friendship was a binding force for all. Beta Rho erected a fl agpole in his memory. He is survived by parents Joe and Debra Reams, sister Caroline, grandparents John and Marge Ahlf, and grandmother Rita Reams.

gardening program. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America and was awarded the St. George medal. His career spanned more than 55 years and was spent doing what he truly loved, which was teaching and beautifying. Survived by wife (of 54 years) Catherine, daughters Cathy and Maureen, sons Kevin, Chris, Patrick, Terry, Michael and Tim and three grandchildren.

KenyonMcCutcheon, Van D. ’52, Oct. Beta uncle John Van Dyne, Missouri ’32 (dec.)

MaineFoster, Walter H. Jr. ’47, March 20.

MiamiCampbell, Robert P. ’35, April 17. He worked in the building products industry during his career at Armco Steel Corp., and vice president of Marketing at Steelcraft Mfg. Co. He founded Campbell Closet Wall Co., which designs and

Summer 2007 49

Mystic ShrineRobinson, Thomas J. ’41, Sept. 26.

PennsylvaniaNewell, Frederick B. Jr. ’47, April 30. He served in the Navy. Newell worked as an advertising manager for Brand Names Foundation in New York City, Joseph Horne in Pittsburgh, Liberty House in San Francisco and was president of Rhoads Dept. Stores. In 1971, he and a friend founded Seklemian/Newell, an internationally renowned marketing consulting business. Newell was a renowned international marketing consultant. He spoke to and taught audiences around the world and was an author, columnist and contributing editor for several publications. Survived by daughters Nancy and Kay, son Frederick, eight grandchildren, and fi ve great-grandchildren and friend Veronica Terrjyn.

St. LawrenceBeaman, Donald R. ’49, Feb. 9. He was in the Army Air Corps during WWII. He was an educator having worked as teacher, principal and administrator in the States of New York and Pennsylvania. Beaman often played harmonica, enjoyed painting, cartooning and writing poetry and fi ction. Survived by wife (of 50 years) Rev. Sarah, daughter Wynne and son Thomas. Beta father Danile (dec.) Holzkamp, Warren L. ’49, Feb. 23.

South DakotaCarstens, Dr. George J. Jr. ’53, March 29. He practiced medicine in Nebraska for 14 years and moved to Texas where he completed his residency in radiology. He became head of radiology at Morton Hospital. Carstens enjoyed golfi ng and was a private pilot. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Carleen, sons David, George and Paul, and eight grandchildren.McDermott, Richard B. (Dick) ’61, April 23. He served in the Army as a second lieutenant spending two tours in Vietnam, Germany and Korea. After 23 years, he retired as a lieutenant colonel. He then worked another 10 years as an intelligence analyst in the Pentagon for the Defense Intelligence Agency. He enjoyed photography, pottery, gardening and community activities. Survived by wife Shirley, daughters Nancy and Mary, son Michael and fi ve grandchildren. Beta brother John ’57.Murphy, John T. ’57, April 10.Reynolds, Robert F. (Bob) ’49, April 3. He began a career as a chemist with Coca-Cola before serving in the Army during the Korean confl ict. Reynolds managed Reynolds Furniture for 25 years before moving to Texas to become a manufacturer’s representative. Survived by wife Martha, daughters Sarah and Julie, son Brad and nine grandchildren. Beta brother F. Donn ’57.Waggoner, Robert E. ’55, Feb. 17. He was an educator, political scientist and leader in Colorado’s golfi ng community. Waggoner was a long time Cubs fan. Survived by daughters Melissa and Priscilla, son Jeffrey and six grandchildren.

TexasAnderson, Barry B. ’66, Nov. 5. Survived by wife Eugenie, daughter Meagan and son Blaine.

TorontoWilliams, Owen S. ’50, June 20. (see p.46)

VirginiaHudgins, Dr. Robert L. ’58, April 7. He served in the Army as captain. He was the fi rst medical neurologist in northeast Florida. He has been active in the practice of neurology and on the staff of all local hospitals and member of numerous local, state and national professional associations. He served as chief of neurology at St. Vincent’s Medical, St. Luke’s and Memorial Medical Center. Survived by wife (of 30 years) Elizabeth, daughter Sarah, son Robert, two stepchildren and six

grandchildren.

WabashFeeback, David A. ’73, Dec. 31. He served as an assistant prosecuting attorney and a former public defender. Feeback was a partner in the law fi rm of Lautzenheiser, Myers, Feeback, Spear and Kiracofe. Community service was a priority for him. He was active in Jaycees, a founding member of “Friends of the Shelter” and served on the building committee for the Animal Shelter. Feeback coached t-ball and soccer. Survived by wife (of 32 years) Suzanne, daughter Jenna and sons Chad, Ryan and Andrew.Francoeur, Dr. Cleve J. Jr. ’83, Feb. 8. Result of a car accident. He was a veteran of the Indiana Air National Guard serving as fl ight surgeon and held the rank of major. Francoeur practiced dermatology in Bartholomew and Jackson counties. He was an avid outdoorsman. Survived by his parents.

WashingtonMason, Robert E. Sr. ’40, Feb. 18. He was commissioned as a Navy ensign. Most of his war years were in the Pacifi c on a battleship and two attack aircraft carriers. He served fi ve combat theatres and fi ve battles. He then performed 12 years of post war duty as a special agent of the FBI. From 1960-80, Mason worked at Merrill Lynch with fi nancial consulting. He was a part time arbitrator for the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD.) Survived by daughters Janet and Susan, son R.E. Jr., seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Washington-St.LouisRosebrough, John D. ’37, March 19. In 1936, he and a cousin started the fi rst public badminton courts in St. Louis. During WWII, he co-patented a hydraulic drive for submarines and airplanes. Rosebrough was a mechanical engineer, an avid golfer and active in church and community. Survived by wife Dorothy, daughter Peck Lynn, daughter-in-law Cynthia, stepchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Washington & JeffersonJudd, Cleveland C. Jr. ’44, Jan. 20.

Weber StateCranford, Steven R. ’93, March 18. He was chapter president (1992-93.) Cranford was a soldier serving with the Marines, Utah Air National guard and the Air Force Reserves. He served in Desert Storm and in Iraq. He was awarded a commendation medal. Cranford was a Utah State Highway Patrolman and a Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service. He had personal pride and was dedicated to his country and community. Survived by daughters Sabrina and Amanda.

WesleyanBegoon, Jackson W. ’45, March 8. He served in the Army Air Force during WWII as lieutenant and a fi ghter pilot. He was decorated with the Air Medal and three clusters. Jackson was a sales marketing manager for 25 years at Calloway Mills and Deering-Milliken. Later was vice president of Braislin, Porter and Wheelock, an industrial real estate fi rm. After retiring, he moved to Florida and he enjoyed tennis and volunteered in the community. Survived by wife (of 59 years) Doris, daughter Leslie, sons Jeffrey and David, and fi ve grandsons.

West VirginiaStorck, Eugene T. ’48, March 18. He was a fi rst lieutenant B-17 co-pilot of the Army Air Corp during WWII. He worked for Borden Inc. and was active in his church. Survived by wife (of 56 years) Kathryn, daughters Alexandria, Nancy and Susan; sons Daniel, Michael and Thomas, and 14 grandchildren.

Western OntarioTaylor, John A. ’69, May 2. Died suddenly while cycling on his prized giant bicycle. He was a creative teacher for many years; he inspired and supported legions of students. Taylor was passionate about family, scholarship, cycling and blues. Survived by wife Margaret and daughters Meaghan and Ashley.

Western ReserveDoyle, Gerald A. (Jerry) ’48, April 12. He enlisted in the Army during WWII and later joined the Navy and retired as lieutenant commander. From 1951-64, he lived in the Canal Zone of Panama practicing architecture. Doyle was the principal architect of Gerald Doyle and Associates. He was awarded the American Institute of Architects Certifi cate of Fellowship for his contributions to the advancement of the profession of architecture and the Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation. He directed the restoration of Arizona’s most prominent historic properties including the Arizona State Capitol, the Carnegie Public Library, the Corpstein Duplex and the Evans House. Survived by wife Dev; daughters Claudia, Gwen and Trish; two stepchildren, and 11 grandchildren.

Wichita StateAhlberg, Clark D. ’39, Jan. 26. He was a noted tennis player. He served in the Army and in Washington, DC as second in command on a reorganization team at the Veterans Administration. He was a former vice president of administration and research at Syracuse University, served as the New York State budget director and president of Wichita State University. He worked hard to increase access to higher education, to forge a more productive bond with the medical community and the business community, and to add to the community through enduring art and architecture on the WSU campus. Survived by daughter Val Jeanne, son Tom and four grandchildren.Wenzel, Jeffrey G. ’87, April 21. He was a former Phoenix seminary student and co-founder and executive director of Youth Horizons/Dandelion in Wichita. Survived by wife Reneene, daughter Olivia and sons Joseph and Benjamin.

WisconsinButterwick, Dr. John T. ’33, Jan. 24.

WittenbergGiambrone, Ben R. ’72, Feb. 9. He worked in the insurance business early in his career before returning to Rochester where he was a human resource executive with Mercer Human Resource Consulting for more than 25 years. Giambrone dedicated much of his time to the community and was president of Compeer Inc. Survived by wife Pam, daughter Catie and sons Robb and Charles II.Laub, Dr. William E. Jr. ’49, Dec. 10. He served in the Army during WWII, receiving a Bronze Star for heroism. He retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves. He operated a podiatrist medical practice in Springfi eld for more than 40 years. Laub was very active in his community. Survived by daughter Katherine, son William III (Chip) and grandson William IV. Beta brother Carl, Ohio ’52.

YaleHurlbut, Gordon B. ’45, Dec. 14. He was a fl ight instructor in the Navy Air Corp during WWII and served as a lieutenant junior grade Navy pilot. Hurlburt was a county commissioner from 1969-73. Survived by wife (of 60 years) Mary Louise; daughters Corinne, Hether and Annie, and three granddaughters.

— compiled by Phyllis Bowie

[The Last Word]

For my entire life, I have been blessed to have my father as a mentor, hero and best friend.

He is the kind of parent that a son can easily brag about. He taught me everything. Sports, academics, principles and integrity. Dad has been a high school football coach, a science teacher, an assistant principal and a principal. For 32 years, he has been involved in educating children and his passion is always apparent. Recently, he decided that he would retire and start looking for new challenges. On numerous occasions, he has joked that he would even become the chapter house-dad.

He wasn’t always so sure that Beta was such a good thing.

When I fi rst joined the Fraternity, he was cautious and speculative. He asked me what being a Beta was all about. It was a hard thing to explain at fi rst, because Dad never had a Greek experience. I may have stammered for a moment, pausing to make sure that my explanation was clear and detailed but did not reveal the secrets of the organization.

“Beta reinforces the way you raised me to be.”

This was the best, most honest answer I could give and yet it didn’t seem to completely satisfy him. He wanted to know more. Maybe it was because he had always fi lled the nurturing role in my life that Beta now plays and he wanted to have a deeper understanding of this brotherhood. There were rough times during my collegiate years that, without the fraternity, I don’t think I would have made it through. Maybe Dad wanted to be sure that this lifelong commitment I had made was a worthy one. Or maybe he just wanted to know why I had chosen “Kai” as the name for our Jack Russell terrier.

Needless to say, my dad became as active as any parent could be in the Fraternity. So many times during the years, he made the

Only Now He’s My Brother

50 The Beta Theta Pi50 The Beta Theta Pi50 The Beta Theta Pi

Maybe Dad wanted to be sure that this lifelong commitment I

had made was a worthy one. Or maybe he just

wanted to know why I had chosen

“Kai” as the name of our Jack

Russel terrier.

trip to Murfreesboro, Tenn., for an evening or the weekend, to help paint or just to hang out. He has helped cook for football tailgates and dinners, and every semester he and my mother host more than 30 undergraduates at my home in Louisville.

The Chapter loves him and the brothers know how close he and I are to one another. At one point, someone suggested initiating my father. Without saying anything else, that older brother spread the word on this idea. Sometime later, the motion was offi cially brought forward at a chapter meeting; I did not even realize that it was still being considered.

The Chapter voted. A unanimous decision.

On Christmas, as my dad quickly opened his fi nal gift, he found a letter from the Chapter inside. He began to read, but choked up somewhere near the middle and fi nished silently to himself. He paused and raised his eyes to meet my own. If ever a look could speak words of appreciation, his eyes were genuine.

Speechless, he managed a few words, “Wow, Zach. I don’t even know what to say.”

As I looked my dad squarely in the eyes, I thought about how a fraternity “legacy” typically works. When I think of “legacy,” I think of proud fathers encouraging sons. I think of Silver Grays beaming contentedly while grandsons sign the roll books of their own chapter.

A son does not normally have the opportunity to initiate his own father.

But on that day, the ritual never resonated more clearly with me. The Mystic Circle closed and I stood with a proud smile etched across my face, shoulder to shoulder with my dad and my hero.

Only now, he was also my brother.

by Zachary Firquin,Middle Tennessee State ’07 Middle Tennessee State ’07

LLLLLA Lasting MomentL

The night before I was initiated, I remember a group of seniors asking, “What do you plan to give back to the Fraternity?” I thought for a moment and said that I hoped to be an offi cer someday, perhaps chapter treasurer. Twelve days later, I was elected to that position. Twelve years later, I was honored with my election as Beta Theta Pi’s 24th General Treasurer.

It is interesting that this question has changed over the years to “Why do you give back to Beta?” For me, the answer is easy – I have never been able to repay the debt for what Beta has given to me. The rewards have been amazing. I have met some incredible men through volunteering, many of whom are leaders in business, government and industry. I have developed new friendships all over the world, some with brothers twice my age. Moreover, I have grown as an individual by learning from those who I am asked to teach.

Opportunities to give back to the organization continue to enrich my life and I am fortunate to have a supportive wife. We contribute our time, talents and gifts because we have seen the positive infl uence Beta can have. Please don’t take our word for it. Get involved as a volunteer or make a gift to the Foundation. You’ll be amazed at the return on investment you receive. – John H. Stebbins, Emory ’92John and his wife Leslie, a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, live in Atlanta, Ga., with their two children Lauren (5) and Grant (3). Stebbins is chief fi nancial offi cer for Trusco Capital Management. He is a member of the Fraternity’s Advisory Council and chairman of the Ritual Review Task Force. He has held numerous volunteer positions and he was involved closely with the development of the Men of Principle initiative.

Beta Theta Pi Foundation &Administrative Office

Brennan HallP.O. Box 6277

5134 Bonham RoadOxford, Ohio 45056

www.betathetapi.org

Help keep the momentum going.Gi s to the Beta Leadership Fund are now just a click away… Check out www.betathetapi.org/gi today!

We Can Hardly Contain Ourselves . . .

Advisors Off er Experience . . .In 1998, Beta had less than two advisors per chapter. Today the average is 4.29.

Experience Builds Leaders . . . Only 15 young Betas a ended leadership opportuni es in 1998. Approximately 1,500 par cipated in 2007.

Leaders A ract Principled Men . . .The average chapter size has increased more than 14% since 1998 – from 49 to 56.

Principled Men Excel!In 2004-05 the all-Beta-chapter GPA surpassed 3.0 for the fi rst me in modern memory. One of only 13 inter/na onal fraterni es (of 68) to do so.

In 1998, Beta Theta Pi launched what would become known as the interna onally recognized, award-winning Men of Principle ini a ve. Funded en rely through alumni gi s to the Beta Theta Pi Founda on, the results are striking…

. . . Because Your Gi s Are Making a Diff erence!

The Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge – June 2007

the beta theta pi magazine (summer 2007)

Documents

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beta theta pidecember

bridge of wisdom

trained advisors

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