BETA the beta theta pi magazine
SUMMER 2019 remembering lugar | state of the fraternity | chapter reports
BEYOND THE BOARDROOM Not all Beta legends are Fortune 500 executives.
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FORWARD THINKERS
On the 100th anniversary of the Baird Fund and Founders’ Fund, the Fraternity looks back on the men (and woman) who helped bring the historic endowments to life – and the impact they’ve made ever since.
Features
contents inside this issue
REMEMBERING LUGAR
DEPARTMENTS
The Fraternity pays tribute to one of America’s greatest statesmen: United States Senator Richard G. Lugar, Denison ’54.
04 | Archives
historical throwback unfiltered feedback
08 | Newsworthy fraternity updates
10 | Beta Eponyms worldwide tributes
BEYOND THE BOARDROOM
lifelong brotherhood
32 | Campus Life
37
student highlights
38 | Chapter Reports your alma mater
52 | Chapter Eternal in loving memory
STATE OF THE FRATERNITY
55 | Bridge Builder
Check the pulse of Beta in an objective, year-end academic report assessing the pride and pain points of the Fraternity.
donor spotlight
Firefighter Doug Johnson, Wisconsin ’08, is one of five Beta alumni profiled in the feature article beginning on page 20.
The Beta Theta Pi Magazine The oldest continuously published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded on December 15, 1872, by Charles Duy Walker, VMI 1869.
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3 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
Beta legends aren’t exclusive to Fortune 500 boardrooms. These five Betas keep their heads down and get the work done, too.
16 | Alumni News
CONTENTS
20
06 | The Inbox
On the Cover
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Publication Schedule Issue Winter Spring Summer
Deadline Oct. 15 Jan. 15 April 15
Mail Date Dec. 15 March 15 June 15
Who Receives the Beta Magazine? All Beta undergraduates and parents, current and former volunteers, Foundation donors, and anyone who requests to receive it in print. Update your subscription and contact information at my.beta.org or with Receptionist Phyllis Bowie at 800.800.BETA.
How Does One Get Published? Content submissions and high resolution photos can be sent to beta@beta.org or the Administrative Office at PO Box 6277, Oxford, OH 45056. While space constraints make it difficult to include all submissions, a fair evaluation process is exercised to publish a variety of unique stories.
Want Instant Access to a Past Issue? All past issues since 1872 can be accessed in Beta’s digital archive: magazine.beta.org.
The Beta Theta Pi, (USPS 052-000),
official magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, is owned by the Fraternity, edited and published under the direction and control of its Board of Trustees, published winter, spring and summer for a $30 one-time pre-paid subscription. Standard non-profit class postage paid at Oxford, Ohio, and additional points of entry. Canada Post International Publications Mail (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 0397474. Copyright Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. Produced in the USA.
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archives historical throwback Send your old Beta photos to the Beta magazine: beta@beta.org
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Alpha's historic, 130-year-old register of special events lists attendees of many of the most important moments in the chapter's history throughout the latter 1800s. In an entry dated May 13, 1890, the chapter celebrated the “raising of the first college fraternity flag ever floated.� There, 16 Betas assisted in hoisting a large flag 32 feet above the main building of Miami University. One year earlier at the chapter's Semicentennial, the rose had been adopted as an official Fraternity emblem. Now that emblem was the focal point of yet another piece of Beta heraldry, surrounded by a pyramid of three white stars and enclosed by a white border on a field of blue. This original flag, designed by John I. Covington, Miami 1870, remained until 1902 when it was revised to the current design by Major George M. Chandler, Michigan 1898. Be there August 1-4 when the Beta flag once again flies high over Miami’s campus at the 180th General Convention in Oxford. Registration closes June 29 at beta.org/convention.
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H
aving grown up on a cattle and tobacco farm in the rolling hills of horse country, pretentiousness and highfalutin behaviors certainly weren't the norm around our house. Coupled with my dad's concrete masonry profession and mom's grocery store, it's safe to say our family's daily routine was "of the people."
foreword editor’s note Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 martin.cobb@beta.org
Creative Director
Sarah Shepherd sarah.shepherd@beta.org
Managing Editor | Graphic Designer Mike Roupas, Iowa ’10 mike.roupas@beta.org
Director of Media Relations | Senior Writer
Justin Warren, SMU ’10 justin.warren@beta.org
Director of Digital Media
Mike Rodmaker, Cincinnati ’13 mrodmaker@gmail.com
Photography
James Cleveland, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard; Kyle Miller, James Madison '21
Publication Printer
Royle Printing Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Yet, despite the Betas who have gone on to political, business and philanthropic fame – men we can and should be incredibly proud of – there are Betas who are often overlooked and not acclaimed as they should. Men like firefighters, policemen, teachers, chefs and welders. Men who help run America and Canada through their daily ingenuity, labor and grit. Men who are masters of their craft.
5 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
Editor | Director of Communication
And Beta legends like William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1878/Columbia 1882, an accomplished patent lawyer and loyal Beta author whose name is iconic in the annals of Beta lore. His research and documentation of Beta Theta Pi history single-handedly captured the stories, events and personalities that have inspired 200,000 men to call Beta their own. On pages 12-13, you'll read more about his legacy that influences the Fraternity to this day. His contribution was epic.
FOREWORD
Interestingly, it was dad's insistence I go to college that introduced me to the fraternity I came to love. And with that, I met and learned about some of the most impressive and accomplished men imaginable. Men of incredibly different stripes, like United States Senator Richard G. Lugar, Denison '54 – a political giant we lost in April. A man of principle to the core and someone I consider a close friend and brother, you'll enjoy a tribute to him on pages 14-15.
“There are Betas who are often overlooked and not acclaimed as they should. Men who help run America and Canada through their daily ingenuity, labor and grit."
So, this issue honors the credit they bring to the Fraternity, and the tens of thousands of Beta brothers just like them. For, as that great old anonymous quote suggests, "Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." Sounds like home to me. Sincerely and yours in ___kai___,
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magazinefeedback “I seldom write
letters to the editor, but the spring issue prompted me ... I particularly enjoyed the reprinted article on ‘Is it Time to Change Our Thinking on Fraternities?’ and the ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ article. I also have great respect for President George H.W. Bush, so that struck home as well.
THE INBOX
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“I just received and read from cover to cover the latest edition of the Beta magazine. Great job by you and your team!
THE BETA THETA PI
The feature article, ‘A Fraternity’s 7 Deadly Sins’ was brilliantly written and on the mark as to the many challenges and opportunities that fraternities and young men face today. While we live in a different time of social media and cultural/social norms, the general nature and challenges of humanity remain unchanged. I continue to stand committed in my strong belief that the fraternity experience and, in particular, the development of personal and social skills for young men are needed more than ever on today’s campuses!” Yours in ___kai___, Jeff Newton, Miami ’77
the inbox unfiltered feedback Share your thoughts with Beta’s editorial team at beta@beta.org or on the Fraternity’s official social media platforms.
The magazine, in my opinion, is particularly well done, especially your use of the quality paper and all the photos and illustrations that make it stand out from the milieu of magazines that arrive in the mail. I was an undergrad at Kansas State, got a DVM from there and a Master’s from the college of veterinary medicine at Ohio State. So, I get four alumni publications. I haven’t seen many as good as your last issue. You should be justifiably proud!” — Larry Bramlage, Kansas State ’73
“The article, ‘Is it Time
to Change Our Thinking on Fraternities,’ so belittles the fraternity experience I enjoyed as to make the article unworthy of inclusion in the Beta magazine.” — Don O’Neill, Dickinson ’58
“The spring magazine
is one of the best I have ever seen! Brother C.D. Walker would be proud.” — Fred Brower, Miami ’50 Administrative Secretary 1958-65
“This was a terrible
publication.” — William Rush, Cincinnati ’67
“Every issue gets
better and better – this one is tops! The design was superb. So clean, colorful and well designed. The features were great. ‘The Seven Deadly Sins’ could easily replace/augment a pledge program. Each sin could be a powerful discussion. I encourage use beyond just this publication as there’s real substance here that should be exploited as much as possible. The illustrations were terrific. I loved George Bush’s advice to young people. I couldn’t help but wonder how different the advice would be from the current occupant of the White House. Talk about night and day difference! Please share my praise with the team – you all outdid yourselves. I can’t wait to show it off – much better than most college magazines.” — Brian “B.B.” Breittholz Exec. Dir., Cleveland State Univ. Alumni Association
“I wanted to ask for
your permission to print the ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ article and give it to our chapter presidents and IFC executive board. I would like to have them read the article and discuss it at our next IFC meeting.” — Torrie Jackson, Asst. Dir. Fraternity and Sorority Life, Florida Gulf Coast University
thebetahouse paperorplastic “The pictures of the
new UK Beta house are spectacular! The attention to detail and thoughtful design is a model for all fraternity houses!” — Jeff Newton, Miami ’77 Alpha Chapter House Corp.
“Gorgeous house!
Proud of our son to be a Beta!” — Kenya Reyes, Mother of Diego Reyes, Kentucky ’21
“Wow. Just, wow.”
“An example of
Schuyler Colfax article. I live in Schuyler, Nebraska, in Colfax county. Yes, we were named for the vice president. I am a 1979 alumnus of the Gamma Alpha Chapter at the University of South Dakota. I am also the Mayor of Schuyler, the county seat of approximately 8,000 people.” — Jon Knutson, South Dakota ’79
“Proud to call this
my home!” — Braxton Caudill, Kentucky ’21
“Congratulations!
Treat your house with love and respect so it will serve for generations.” — George Pasquarello, W&J ’88
“I’m so happy Eric
was able to live his senior year in the Beta house. It is absolutely beautiful!” — Carol Gegg, Mother of Eric Gegg, Kentucky ’19
“That’s awesome.
Way to go #BBN!” — Akshay Bhavsar, UC Irvine ’10
“So sick.
Cultivate the intellect.” — Eric Teater, Oklahoma State ’96
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“Disappointed to see
Beta going the reverse of a worldwide trend (and necessary action) and mailing the magazine in single-use plastic.” — Ken Rawley, Penn State ’76
“Morning, Ken.
Your feedback is valued, brother, and I’ll share it with the rest of the editorial team. To that end, you should know there has been equal feedback over the years about the condition in which the Beta magazine was arriving in homes following a pretty rough distribution process by the USPS. Ripped covers, frayed edges and black ‘roller gunk’ are but a few of the most often cited frustrations by the membership – something we determined was unacceptable given the investment made in the Fraternity’s treasured publication of record.
“Having pledged a sorority myself, I know how exhilarating it can be for the pledges yet how worrisome it can be for the parents. I appreciate your [welcome] email. My son is smart and wise. I respect him immensely and I trusted him to make the right decision. I couldn’t be more proud of him and I couldn’t be happier that the Betas offered him a chance to pledge. As a matter of fact, he was elected pledge class president this past weekend. I entrust my son to you and I know he will make you proud.”
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“Just a side note to the
Fraternity, care, craftsmanship and a positive educational environment.” — Chris Owens, Eastern Kentucky ’07
It came in the mail undamaged in a tightly sealed plastic envelope (very worth it!) The content is superb and really cutting edge, relevant stuff.” — Zac Haines, Miami ’05
THE INBOX
— Spencer Toder, Washington in St. Louis ’09
“Great spring magazine.
— Amy Martelli, Mother of Joseph Orrico, Virginia ’22
As a result, and after careful consideration, we intentionally selected a recyclable plastic to address your concern, while at the same time protect the magazine for everyone’s enjoyment. That being said... We will continue to monitor feedback, brother. Again, thanks for taking the time to share. It matters.” — Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96, Editor martin.cobb@beta.org
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newsworthy fraternity updates Five Expansion Projects Confirmed for 2019-20
Recognized as one of the top aviation and aerospace schools in America, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has been selected as Beta’s fifth and final expansion for the 2019-20 academic year, alongside recolonizations at Bowling Green, Oregon, South Florida and Toledo. A private university located adjacent to Daytona Beach International Airport in Florida, it boasts 5,700 undergraduates, graduates and PhD candidates. Beta will join eight current NIC fraternities, including Delta Chi, Delta Upsilon, Fiji, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Sigma Chi. To become involved as a volunteer for one of this year’s expansion projects, email Director of Expansion Zach Lepperd, Truman State ’16, at zach.lepperd@beta.org. To recommend a young man for membership at any of the Fraternity’s 143 chapters and colonies, complete the referral form at beta.org/recommend.
Membership Decline Continues, Insurance Soars
Consistent with peer fraternities, fall 2018 and spring 2019 marked a third straight year of declining membership. Having pledged 3,633 men, Beta’s 138 chapters and colonies posted their smallest recruitment since 2012-13 – a 12% drop from the all-time high of 4,061 in 2015-16. Related to recent high-profile fraternity risk management incidents, Beta’s insurance rates have climbed to all-time highs, with liability insurance alone increasing 37% year-over-year.
Seven Colonies To Petition for Charters
Seven colonies have been evaluated by the Board of Trustees and approved to petition the General Convention for charter status at the 180th in Oxford. Following years of hard work, the re/founding fathers making a run for their charters include delegations from Delaware, Loyola Chicago, Miami, MIT, New Jersey, Rochester and Rockhurst. Charter voting will occur Friday, August 2, in what is always a Convention highlight. (Above: Elon at the 179th General Convention)
betaevents
greekheadlines
August 2019
1-4 180th General Convention Oxford, Ohio beta.org/convention 8 53rd Annual Beta Steakout Canton, Ohio BetaSteakout@hotmail.com
MICHAEL BONATUCCI, 19 Hazing/Served Alcohol Pled Guilty
JOSHUA KURCZEWSKI, 19
JOE SALA, 19
Hazing/Served Alcohol Pled Guilty
Helped Plan the Gauntlet Pled Guilty
LUKE VISSER, 19
Ran Beer Pong Station Pled Guilty
November 2019
December 2019
7 Kansas City Alumni Association Annual Holiday Party Kansas City, Mo. linkdani@gmail.com
January 2020
Joint Board Meetings: Trustees, Foundation, General Fraternity House Corp Dallas, Texas
April 2020
24-26 Board of Trustees Meeting Boston, Mass.
June 2020
12-14 DePauw 175th Anniversary Greencastle, Ind. acohen@depauw.edu
August 2020
6-9 181st General Convention Phoenix, Ariz. 13-15 Washington State 100th Anniv. Pullman, Wash. contact@wsubeta.org
November 2020
6-8 Board of Trustees Meeting Cincinnati, Ohio
Upcoming alumni event? Email specifics to beta@beta.org!
House Manager Awaiting Trial
DANIEL CASEY, 19 Pledge Educator Awaiting Trial
BRENDAN YOUNG, 21 Chapter President Awaiting Trial
Penn State Accountability Continues to Take Form University Pursues Chapter House Following a break down in discussions last September between the house corporation and university, Penn State continues to pursue ownership through the court system of Beta’s Alpha Upsilon chapter house. Based upon a 1928 deed restriction, school officials argue the institution is entitled to reacquire the property if it is no longer used as a fraternity.
company hired by the chapter to staff the bid-night party has also been named in the lawsuit.
Judge Issues Additional Sentences In April and May, Centre County Judge Brian Marshall sentenced four more former Beta undergraduates for their role in the 2017 hazing death of Penn State new member Tim Piazza ’20. Ranging from 1-3 months of house arrest, sentences for Michael Bonatucci, Joshua Kurczewski, Piazza Family Sues 28 Undergraduates Joseph Sala and Luke Visser include fines, On January 31, following announcement probation and community service. Most of the 28 men charged have pled guilty of a confidential monetary and instito hazing and/or alcohol-related counts. tutional reforms settlement with Penn State, Jim and Evelyn Piazza filed a civil Former President Brendan Young, Pledge Educator Daniel Casey and House Manlawsuit against 28 former Beta undergraduates for their roles in the activities ager Braxton Becker await trial pending that led to their son’s death. The security evidentiary rulings.
Alpha Gam Murdered in Uber Driver Mix-up
Mistaking a stranger’s car for the Uber she ordered following a night out with friends, Samantha Josephson was murdered violently due to sharp-force injuries and activation of child safety locks that made it impossible for her to escape. An Alpha Gamma Delta senior at the University of South Carolina, Josephon’s death has spurred state legislation and an international campaign to ensure the legitimacy of all drivers. Rideshare uses are urged to ask, “What’s my name?”
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24-26
BRAXTON BECKER, 20
NEWSWORTHY
1-3 Board of Trustees Meeting Kansas City, Mo. jeff.rundle@beta.org 2 Knox House Dedication Galesburg, Ill. tmorrison@exponent.com 8-11 Northeastern 10th Anniversary Boston, Mass. taneja.n@husky.neu.edu
BETA EPONYMS
10 THE BETA THETA PI
beta eponyms worldwide tributes Know of an entity that pays homage to a Beta? Send the story to beta@beta.org.
Becoming the world’s largest retailer with more than 11,300 Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in 27 countries, Sam Walton, Missouri ’40, also built his company into the world’s largest by revenue, generating more than $500 billion in sales annually and employing 2.3 million people. He once remarked about the company,“We’re all working together; that’s the secret.” Presented with Beta’s 16th Oxford Cup in 1991, Walton shared in his subsequent biography, “Made in America”: “Most of the fraternities were really for the more well-to-do kids, and I ordinarily wouldn’t have qualified for membership. But they rushed me even as a town boy, and I had my pick of the best. I chose Beta Theta Pi because they were the top scholastic fraternity and had led the intramural league for a number of years. When I was a sophomore, the Betas made me rush captain. So I bought a real old Ford, and I traveled the whole state that summer interviewing potential Beta candidates.” In a letter to his Zeta Phi Chapter just two months before his death in 1992, he wrote: “Betas were always very special to me – they helped me gain confidence, provided encouragement and recognized me as an individual. Their friendship has been constant and their values have carried forward – friendship, fidelity and cultivation of the intellect. I hope your Beta experience is one that you will long remember and cherish. Good luck and best wishes, always. Yours in --kai--, Sam.”
forward thinkers The 100th Anniversary of the Baird and Founders’ Funds By L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96
O FORWARD THINKERS
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n October 9, 1916, General Secretary Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883, penned a letter to district chiefs appealing for their support of an endowment that may some day reach $1 million. With a peer fraternity considering something similar, he proclaimed, “This is the birth of a new and larger fraternity ... Beta Theta Pi cannot lag behind.” Now, 100 years since inception of the Baird and Founders’ Funds – boasting $4 million and $31 million, respectively – Shepardson’s call to “strike bold” reminds us of forward thinkers whose impact is felt to this day.
Since 1919, more than 187,000 Betas have paid into the Baird Fund as a way to stay connected to the Fraternity they love. Recognized also as the official record of the Fraternity, three full-color, perfect-bound issues are produced each year. In 2016, The Beta Theta Pi was named magazine of the year by the Fraternity Communications Association.
“Let us take as our motto: ‘Plan great things; expect great things.’” — Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883
THE BETA THETA PI
The Baird Fund
It took three years for the vision to take form, as the Board of Trustees studied the endowment concept carefully. But, with Mr. Beta Theta Pi (Shepardson) stepping to the legislative floor to make the case, on September 2, 1919, by unanimous vote of the 80th General Convention, the Baird Fund was established "in lasting memory” to legendary Beta author and 24-year editor William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1878/Columbia 1882. As Baird died suddenly from a heart attack on March 15, 1917, widow Jennie Baird attended the 1919 Convention alone. Both acts no doubt fueled the move to establish the memorial in his honor. Serving as the permanent endowment to guarantee The Beta Theta Pi magazine to every member for life, the Baird Fund receives a portion of each initiation fee to strengthen its impact. Originally $10, it was raised to $20 in 1952 and $30 in 1981.
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The Founders’ Fund
An equally important part of the Trustees’ 1919 Convention recommendation was the creation of a second endowment to receive gifts and testamentary provisions for “fellowships, scholarships, prizes and loan funds.” Challenging 10 donors to contribute $1,000 each to get the Founders’ Fund off the ground, Jennie Baird stepped forward and gave another $2,000, and eight loyal alumni stepped forward to achieve the $10,000 goal. In a unique twist of fate, however, Jennie died from a heart attack on November 29, just three months after the Convention. With their only son, Duy Raimond Baird, Wesleyan 1909, having died in 1913, the Bairds left their entire estate ($65,000) to the Founders’ Fund. Today, it would have equated to $989,706. In its first several decades, the Fund served primarily as a loan vehicle for a litany of new chapter houses. Totalling $140,000 in 1949 and $1.1 million by 1988, the Fund’s assets were assumed by the newly established Beta Theta Pi Foundation in 1990. Today, the Foundation has grown to $31 million, sponsoring scholarships and educational programs of the acclaimed Men of Principle initiative.
October 1, 1919 - Letter from Shepardson to 1,000 devoted alumni announcing creation of the Baird Fund. Recipients were encouraged to contribute $10 for a lifetime subscription to The Beta Theta Pi magazine. The Fund was first capitalized by a $1,000 gift from Jennie Baird, the $1,000 surplus from the Toronto Chapter Fund, $1,000 in residual proceeds from the 191819 magazine subscriptions and $2,500 collected at the 80th General Convention. p
Looking back 100 years, it’s clear the Baird Fund institutionalized Beta’s belief in a strong culture of communication. And, the Beta Foundation’s rank as the largest fraternity foundation in North America reminds us that, next to friendship and brotherhood, Betas believe passionately in the development of the mind. “Strike bold?” It’s long been the Beta way.
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ARTIFACTS | A) October 11, 1917: letter from President Shepardson to Jennie Baird regarding future of Baird’s interfraternal library and copyright to Baird’s Manual. B) Younger Baird, late 1870s or early 1880s. C) September 7, 1920: Founders’ Fund Trust Indenture and envelope prepared by Clarence L. Newton, Wesleyan 1902. D) November 29, 1919: valuation of Baird estate leading to $65,000 bequest to Founders’ Fund. E) October 29, 1917: response from J. Baird to Shepardson regarding interfraternal library and Baird’s Manual copyright. F) Custom bookplate for Baird’s interfraternal collection deposited in New York Public Library. G) Baird Fund membership certificate entitling undergraduate Carl Carlson, Idaho ’23, to Beta magazine for life. H) “The Father of Interfraternalism” in his golden years. I) 1920s Baird and Founders’ Fund ads in The Beta Theta Pi. J) 1909 stock certificate from Baird estate. K) October 9, 1916: letter to district chiefs from Shepardson proposing endowment. L) September 7, 1920: Baird Fund Trust Indenture and October 1, 1919 appeal to alumni by Shepardson (see page 12). M) Collection of The Beta Theta Pi, 1916 to 2019.
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R I C H A R D
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L U G A R
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ALUMNI NEWS
“A man of matchless honesty and integrity, and perhaps the Senate’s leading intellect.” – Ronald Reagan, 40th President of the United States
14 THE BETA THETA PI Getty Images
Above, September 2, 2015, Lugar awaits backstage at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia before a speech on nuclear arms. At his memorial service in Indianapolis on May 15, Lugar was eulogized by his four sons, as well as U.S. Vice President Mike Pence (R), Fiji; Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R), Phi Kappa Tau; Former Senator Sam Nunn (D), Phi Delta Theta; and Purdue University President and Former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels (R), Fiji.
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5/28/19 11:29 AM
Beta Says Goodbye to One of America’s Greatest Statesmen By L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96
I
n the fall of 1950, a genteel young man from Indianapolis broke with family tradition and crossed the Ohio state line to attend Denison University. Seventy years later, Richard Lugar is remembered for his Hoosier humility and gentlemanly approach to influencing the world he cared for.
But, this student body co-president (alongside Sweetheart Charlene Smeltzer) became Denison’s first Rhodes Scholar, as well as a Navy intelligence officer. Today, the name Lugar is synonymous with “a true statesman” and “foreign policy giant.”
Elected to the local board of education in his early 30s, he oversaw school desegregation as its vice president and became the first Republican in 20 years elected mayor of Indianapolis. Spearheading the city’s urban renewal, he laid the foundation for Indy’s economic efficiency and high-profile sports culture. One of the Senate’s most analytical and studious workhorses, he was admired for his bipartisanship. Two-time chairman of the powerful Foreign Relations Committee, his national influence even inspired Congressional Quarterly to coin him the “shadow Secretary of State.” Achieving meaningful public policy was always more important than rigid ideologies, pounding the table or blow-hard rhetoric focused on the next election or media cycle. Civility mattered to Lugar. Always. High-mindedness and a cooperative posture paved the way for his signature legislative achievement, the 1991 Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduc-
Of course, it’s his 20-year role as spokesman of the Men of Principle initiative and attendance at 23 General Conventions that cements his name in Beta lore. Mesmerizing audiences with stories of world diplomacy, yet never using written notes, he often threw out the “Lugar Boomerang” by deploying a variety of anecdotes designed to reach the masses and help them understand an important point he sought to make for the Fraternity he loved. For his inspiring example, Beta presented him with the Oxford Cup and Shepardson Award in 1989 and 2005, respectively. In 2012, the Fraternity designated all future General Convention delegates as “Lugar Fellows” – a nod to their youthful legislative efforts and his hallmark career.
15 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
Ranking as the 19th-longest serving U.S. Senator given his 36-year career, Lugar’s lifetime was marked by high points upon high points.
Lugar’s even-keeled approach to politics gave rise to the esteem in which the public held him. Gracious, approachable and modest to a fault, like Indiana limestone, his name is deeply emblazoned in American history: multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations, Presidential Medal of Freedom, candidate for President of the United States, to name a few.
REMEMBERING LUGAR
An Eagle Scout, pianist and high school valedictorian, little seemed impossible for the overachieving Lugar – despite the fact he wasn’t offered a Beta bid the first time he rushed the Alpha Eta Chapter and lost his first run for the U.S. Senate.
tion Program that deactivated thousands of Russian nuclear warheads aimed at the U.S., ballistic missiles and tons of chemical weapons agent. Fittingly, it bears the name of Democrat Sam Nunn, Phi Delta Theta, who remarked upon Lugar’s passing, “Our nation has lost an extraordinary statesman who made the world a safer and better place. I have lost a wonderful friend and trusted partner.”
Like the motto of the Union Literary Society that gave birth to Beta Theta Pi in 1839, “Cooperation Makes Strength” embodied the heart and soul of one of America’s greatest statesmen: Richard Green Lugar, Denison ’54. To most, he was a political leader. To others, as was titled in a recent PBS/NPR documentary, he was “Reason’s Quiet Warrior.” To Betas everywhere, he was simply “Brother Lugar.”
Lugar is survived by his wife, Char; sons Mark, Bob, John, Indiana ’85, and David, Indiana ’87; 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. The Lugar Center he built following conclusion of his Senate career in 2013 stands as an influential Washington think-tank that continues his life’s work: nonproliferation, global food security and bipartisan governance.
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5/28/19 11:29 AM
Getty Images
alumni news lifelong brotherhood Senator Bennet Launches Presidential Run
Becoming the 21st Democrat to join the 2020 race, Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, Wesleyan ’87, announced on May 2 his plan to run for the presidency of the United States. Former superintendent of Denver Public Schools and chief of staff to Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, he ran successfully for the Senate in 2010 and 2016. Bennet planned to announce his presidential intentions in April but was forced to delay after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Described as having “caught it early,” he is reported as cancer-free following surgery that avoids chemotherapy. Considered a moderate relative to the Democratic field given Colorado’s swing-state demographics, Bennet pursues the nomination in a particularly contentious election cycle. Recognizing Beta’s longstanding tradition of remaining apolitical, yet proud of all brothers who seek to serve the greater good, The Beta Theta Pi will follow Bennet’s progress, as well as all other Beta candidates. The Fraternity’s last two presidential contenders were Missouri Congressman and House Majority Leader Dick Gephardt, Northwestern ’62 (1988 and 2004), and Indiana Senator Dick Lugar, Denision ’54 (1996).
notablehighlights Lawyer “Icon”
Past Beta Foundation campaign chairman, Bert Bates, Missouri ’49, was recently recognized as an “ICON” by the Missouri Lawyers Media and with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by the Kansas City Bar Association.
EKU Alumni Grab Spotlight
ALUMNI NEWS
Longtime dean of student development and alumni association executive director, Skip Daugherty, Eastern Kentucky ’69, was recently named EKU’s vice president of student affairs. District chief for Arizona and Arizona State, Nick Sexton ’11, was named one of just five Young Alumni of the Year by the EKU Alumni Association.
AC
Hall of Famer
Past chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Tim Koritz, Illinois ’78, was recently inducted into the Illinois Fraternity & Sorority Alumni Hall of Fame.
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Retired from Carmel High School, Lee Lonzo, Miami ’73, was awarded in March the Indiana High School Athletic Association’s Richard G. Lugar Award for service to interscholastic athletics.
Lopes Promoted to CCO
Dane Lopes, Syracuse ’95, was recently promoted to chief commercial officer for Everest Insurance – the fastest growing specialty insurer globally over the last three years.
A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships
Seventeen-year staff veteran of Beta’s Administrative Office, Ryan King, Southern Illinois ’01, was recently named Chief Foundation Officer for Delta Upsilon Fraternity.
B
A | UCLA’s Thakur Elected to Fullerton School Board
B | Commonwealth Joe Named to 50 Best Coffee Stores in U.S.
Lifelong residents of Fullerton, where he and his Beta Sweetheart met at Sunny Hills High School, they returned after UCLA and University of San Diego Law to begin their careers. They have two sons, Kai and Kash.
Seven years later, Commonwealth Joe has grown to two stores in the Washington D.C. area, including an exploding cold-brew office program that recently attracted $2.5 million in venture capital. Big 7 Travel recently named Commonwealth Joe one of the 50 Best Coffee Stores in America.
Family man, attorney and loyal Beta alumnus, Aaruni Thakur, UCLA ’01, was recently elected to the Fullerton, California, Board of Education. Helping oversee 14,000 students, 640 teachers and 615 support staff, Thakur’s term runs 2018–2022.
After college, Founding Father Robbie Peck, Virginia ’09 (left), joined his mother to help transition her coffee roasting passion into a potential business.
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
Lugar Award for Miami Beta
C
C | “Wise Millennial”
Recognized by Kirkus Review, Readers’ Favorite and the Nonfiction Authors Association, Peter Darrow, Miami (Fla.) ’09, wrote the self-help book “Wise Millennial” after “losing [his] father, business and serious girlfriend, and following a long and difficult journey to discover [his] own ‘sense of self.’” It’s a perfect read for millennials – and those who want to understand them.
D | McLean Pursues Music
ALUMNI NEWS
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A passionate vocalist throughout his undergraduate years, Jibri McLean, Kenyon ’17, jumped into the professional music scene following graduation. Having released two EPs and multiple singles, he performs in night clubs at home in Baltimore, as well as Philadelphia. With songs available on all major platforms, plans are underway to pursue his craft in Nashville, Los Angeles and New York.
E | Deputy Mayor Mayekar
THE BETA THETA PI
Successful entrepreneur Samir Mayekar, Northwestern ’06, was recently named Chicago’s Deputy Mayor for Economic and Neighborhood Development by incoming Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Mayekar is current president of the Northwestern Alumni Association and also serves on his alma mater’s board of trustees.
F | Another Fulbright Scholar
Founding Father and past Student Body President Paul Nolan, NC State ’17, was recently named a 2019 Fulbright Scholar. He will complete his scholarship in Norway.
G | Fab Four (Hundred)
Following his 2005 national community college men’s basketball championship at Paris Junior College, Bill Foy, Indiana ’82, recently claimed his 400th career coaching win with the women’s basketball team at Ranger College, a community college located 90 miles west of Fort Worth.
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notablehighlights Advisors of the Year
During the spring awards season, Rod Kelley, Florida State ’14, and Jeff Johnson, Iowa State ’16, were both named Advisors of the Year by their respective Greek Affairs Offices.
E
Story Update: Smith Completes Pacific Voyage with Blind Sailor
D
F G
“Dream Big, Hustle Hard”
Covington Catholic Libel Suit
Given the January media firestorm following activists’ interaction with Covington Catholic High School student Nick Sandmann at the Lincoln Memorial, Todd McMurtry, Centre ’84, was hired to represent the family in a multi-pronged libel suit. CNN, The Washington Post and NBC Universal have each been sued for $250-275 million.
Mr. Chairman
First generation college graduate, former Beta chapter president and varsity hockey starting goalie to two championship teams, Robert White, Bowdoin ’77, has been elected chairman of the college’s board of trustees. Founding member of Bain Capital and current Harvard faculty member, White served as chairman of Mitt Romney’s 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns.
19 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
With a life motto of “Dream Big, Hustle Hard,” and his success as an entrepreneur and creative agency CEO, Founding Father Rahul Wahi, Eastern Illinois ’08, was tapped to deliver his alma mater’s commencement address.
ALUMNI NEWS
First covered in Beta’s spring magazine, Doug Smith, Virginia ’86, and blind sailor Hiro Iwamoto set sail from San Diego on February 24 to become the first ever blind-led sailing team to achieve a nonstop trans-Pacific crossing between the U.S. and Japan. After 55 days and 8,700 miles at sea, they landed safely in Fukushima on April 21.
BEYOND THE BOARDROOM Not all Beta legends are Fortune 500 executives. By Mike Roupas, Iowa ’10 Businessmen, politicians, athletes and entertainers: we hear about their accomplishments all the time. They’re discussed at the dinner table, they appear in our push notifications, and they’re being covered on your TV right now. For Beta Theta Pi, they’re often deemed Beta legends — and for good reason. They all add incredible value to our world. But not all legends are found in company boardrooms or sold out arenas. Another set of professionals often goes unnoticed and underappreciated. With a “roll up your sleeves and get it done” attitude, these men give their blood, sweat and tears each day to support their communities and the people within them.
dan
scott
POLICE OFFICER
CHEF
Much respect and gratitude is owed to the five men whose stories are told within — men who keep their heads down, get the work done and never look for the spotlight in return.
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doug
brian
johno
FIREFIGHTER
WELDER
TEACHER
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UNLIKE MOST POLICE OFFICERS, Dan Szczesny, Illinois ’12, requests to work the overnight shift. He learned a lot during his first six months on the police force working during the day, but ultimately wanted a bigger challenge.
dan
“I want to be patrolling at night to protect others from those who are endangering innocent people,” says Dan. “Some nights I’ll find someone who is driving around town drunk and other nights I might find a burglar walking down an alley breaking into cars.” Dan’s extensive community accolades speak for themselves. He is Mothers Against Drunk Driving’s 2018 Hero Award honoree, a three-year recipient of the Top Cop Award for DUI enforcement by the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists, and Police Officer of the Year for his department — two years in a row.
POLICE OFFICER Dan Szczesny, Illinois ’12 River Forest, Illinois “It’s a fine line inserting yourself to accomplish your investigation while being compassionate.”
The son of a U.S. Marine, grandson of a U.S. Army colonel, and nephew of a 27-year Chicago police officer, Dan grew up surrounded by heroes who helped contribute to his deep love for the law, history and his country. Raised by his father following his parents’ divorce at a young age, Dan credits his dad as the stabilizing force in his life who taught him the importance of responsibility and a strong work ethic. DAN HAD IT ALL FIGURED OUT by the time he was in high school. Graduating near the top of his class, he would study public policy and law in college and attend law school upon graduation. Dan stayed the course through his sophomore year: he excelled in academics, joined Beta Theta Pi, and planned to turn his focus toward the LSAT his junior year. But everything changed over summer break when tragedy struck; Dan discovered his father unresponsive in the shower following a massive heart attack.
“His passing was a grueling and difficult test,” says Dan. “I had already grown up much faster than many of my peers, and from that moment to today, the pace only quickened.” Dan’s plan to take the LSAT was put on hold while he finished college, working at least two jobs at a time to pay for classes, rent and food. Following graduation and a two-year stint in Washington, D.C., where he worked for two U.S. Senators and co-founded a business, Dan returned to Chicago with his sights set on becoming a police officer. In 2013, he did just that, scoring first out of 300 in a rigorous testing and hiring process. WORKING SIX DAYS ON AND TWO DAYS OFF, in addition to volunteering at community events, serving as president of his local lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, and now attending law school part time, Dan’s standard work routine finds him patrolling the streets, responding to dispatch calls, writing detailed reports in the office, and representing the department in the courtroom. But one of the most powerful moments he faced was responding to a call from a family after their son’s suicide. “It’s a fine line inserting yourself to accomplish your investigation while being compassionate,” says Dan. “Losing my father and understanding how to deal with sudden loss prepared me for that case. I knew how to be productive, but also sensitive to the family’s needs while they were going through this shock.” Next up for Dan? “I just want to keep giving back to the community, whether that’s in the police force or becoming an attorney who benefits the community.” Completing law school in 2019, Dan is prepared to serve the community wherever his path leads.
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WE ALL PUT FOOD ON OUR TABLES, but for Scott Pajak, UNLV ’02, the daily responsibility extends to more than 1,000 tables of hungry sports fans who are served during peak game times at Lagasse’s Stadium in Las Vegas.
scott
As head chef for the last eight years, Scott is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the kitchen and its staff, and also adds some of his own creative culinary ideas to the menu. One of his most clever concepts during the football season is a customized menu for Monday and Thursday night football that features food specials with local flair from whichever cities are playing that night. Growing up in Buffalo, New York, Scott’s first job was at age 10 delivering newspapers, but his career in the food industry began in high school when he landed a job washing dishes at an Italian restaurant owned by his best friend’s family.
CHEF Scott Pajak, UNLV ’02 Las Vegas, Nevada “It’s been crazy back there. At one point we had 40 tickets. Now we’re down to three.”
“I DIDN’T PLAN TO BE A CHEF,” says Scott. “I started when I was 15 years old, and I never left the restaurant business. I’m going to be 42 this summer. This is all I know.” While studying culinary arts at UNLV, Scott gained experience at restaurants in the area, including Planet Hollywood, New York-New York Casino, and a country club where he prepared meals for PGA Tour golfers. His career with Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse began in 2002 at Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House, first starting as a line cook and learning the trade over the next nine years as a saucier, butcher and sous-chef, before Emeril promoted him to chef de cuisine, or head chef, of Lagasse’s Stadium. A former chapter president of his Beta chapter as well as campus interfraternity council president, Scott speaks highly of his fraternity experience. “Unfortunately, the UNLV chapter isn’t around anymore, but these guys
are still my best friends today, without a doubt.” Scott was even honored with the opportunity to prepare food for his chapter brother’s wedding reception. WHEN HE’S NOT IN THE KITCHEN at Lagasse’s Stadium, Scott enjoys cooking for his two kids and doing charity work. One of his favorite events is an auction hosted by the Boys and Girls Club where attendees can bid on a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Scott to cook a five-course meal inside their home. This year, two groups bid $6,000 each on Scott. “In my mind, I help the kids in our community and all I have to do is cook,” he says. His skills have proven worth the investment with one group bidding on him for the second consecutive year. For the last three years, Scott has also given back through the “Create a Change Now” program where he teaches school children about healthy eating using produce they grow in the schools’ gardens. “The look on the kids’ faces is priceless when they know they are eating something they grew,” he says. In April, Beta’s editorial team visited Scott at Lagasse’s Stadium during the 2019 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball National Championship Game and had an opportunity to watch him in his element and sample a variety of his food. Halfway through the fourth quarter, Scott popped out of the kitchen to check in before making his rounds to see some of his regulars. “It’s been crazy back there,” he says. “At one point we had 40 tickets in the kitchen. Now we’re down to three.” No stranger to hard work, early mornings or late nights, Scott gets the work done and, in the Beta way, is gracious in doing so.
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FIREFIGHTER Doug Johnson, Wisconsin ’08 Madison, Wisconsin “I never know what the day may hold for me, but I know I’m going to be there ready to help at a moment’s notice.”
ARRIVE AT THE FIREHOUSE AT 7:00 A.M. — it’s the beginning of the third and final 24-hour rotation this week. Get the tools and medical supplies in place. Inspect the truck. Make sure the equipment is in working order so it’s ready to go at a moment’s notice. Touch base with the team in a morning briefing and learn what’s on the agenda for the day. Sometimes it’s a community event or elementary students are touring the firehouse. Other times it’s training: equipment training, HAZMAT training, EMS training, weight training — it’s all about staying prepared and ready. And just then, the alarms blare. A dispatcher informs the firehouse that a lifesaving rescue is in motion; in an instant, the day takes a new direction. Throwing on his bunker gear, Doug Johnson, Wisconsin ’08, jumps in the firetruck with three other firefighters, taking off full speed ahead to a nearby apartment complex where an elderly woman is having a heart attack. Rushing inside, the firefighters bring her out on a gurney to a nearby ambulance that they escort to the emergency room. In that moment, a life is saved. THEY’RE NOT ALWAYS FIGHTING FIRES; often they’re responding to car accidents, performing lake rescues, or tending to calls about natural gas or downed power lines. But in Madison, Wisconsin, Doug says most calls are for those having a medical emergency. “Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to help people,” says Doug. His mother was a teacher, and his grandfather, uncle and brother were police officers, so serving the community ran in the family. With that strong foundation, Doug knew early on that his professional path would need to lead him somewhere equally as fulfilling: something physical and challenging where he could help people.
Doug later established roots in Madison. There, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin, created some of his best friends in Beta Theta Pi where he also served as house manager, and met his wife. “I’ve built a life here,” says Doug. “I’m a part of this community, and I’m committed to helping the people in it.” THE COMMITMENT TO HIS COMMUNITY extends well beyond Doug’s time on the clock. Since 2016, he has served as chairman of the Sable Flames, a non-profit organization of African American firefighters established in 1991 following the tragic death of five children killed in a fire that divided the community. In what is now considered a healing moment for the city, the African American firefighters who were serving Madison at the time established a benefit dance to raise money that would provide scholarships to low-income students. Today, Doug and his firefighter family carry on the legacy by volunteering around the city in a litany of capacities: supporting backpacking events for kids, serving meals at multicultural centers, providing lunch for a state-wide burn camp for young burn survivors, and in a nod to tradition, they still host their flagship event — the Second Alarm Benefit Dance. “A lot of people from the fire department volunteer, donate and come to the events, because that’s what the firefighter family does for each other,” says Doug. “That’s the sense of family we have here.” Though Doug never knows what the day may hold for him, one thing is certain: he is ready to help his community at a moment’s notice.
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brian
WELDER Brian Grant, Maine ’00 Portsmouth, New Hampshire “I did not qualify to enlist in the military, but now I get to repair and maintain some of our country’s most formidable assets.”
BEING A WELDER TAKES SKILL; of course, not just anyone can make a career of repairing and maintaining the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet. With 15 years of welding service under his belt at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in New Hampshire, Brian Grant, Maine ’00, doesn’t take his duties lightly — nor the Beta connection that helped chart his course. Born, raised and educated in Bangor, Maine, Brian was fascinated by machinery at a young age and credits his welding interest to the fabricated cars used on screen in the movie “Mad Max.” His father worked on helicopters for Bangor’s medical air ambulance, his uncle was a skilled mechanic, and the family had roots in the paper mills, so he was often around labor-intensive work. While studying business administration at the University of Maine, Brian found a home in Beta Theta Pi and served as the chapter’s house manager, ritual chairman and Convention delegate. Crediting the Fraternity for its support, he experienced a series of highs and lows in college that his brothers helped him through, including academic hardships and the loss of his mother. SEARCHING HIGH AND LOW for his dream job after college, Brian followed his passion for machinery and took a couple of jobs at motorcycle dealerships over the course of three years before realizing it wasn’t the right career fit. Shortly after, Brian connected with a Beta alumnus who encouraged him to apply for a skills position at the shipyard. Following an extensive hiring process, he landed its welding apprenticeship. “The importance of the craft of welding, and the skills and craftsmanship needed, was lost to me until receiving my on-the-job education and experiences working at the shipyard,” he says.
“The stringent requirements and strict tolerances needed to ensure that the Navy’s attack submarines can go in harm’s way, perform their missions and return their crew home safely is something most people overlook or take for granted.” HAVING LEARNED THE CRAFT, Brian says there are no typical days at the shipyard. Catering to the needs of machinists, electricians and toolmakers, each day brings a new challenge for him to problem solve. Best of all is the reward that comes from serving his country in a professional capacity. “I did not qualify to enlist in the military due to surgeries when I was younger,” says Brian. “But now I get to repair and maintain some of our country’s most formidable assets so our submariners can defend our country all across the globe.” In addition to supporting his country, Brian served a three-year term as president of his local lodge of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, leading the union to help support a variety of organizations for veterans and children in the area. Today, Brian’s passion for welding has spilled over into his personal time, too. “Seven years ago, I was able to buy a home with a garage and start building my tool inventory up to where I could fabricate from home,” says Brian. “I enjoy working with steel and creating objects that are aesthetically pleasing and perform a useful function to the owner. I keep my builds personal and unique.” The name of Brian’s welding business? Red Dragon Welding. Not surprisingly, many of Brian’s creations pay homage to his Beta roots, too.
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FEW MEN WOULD BE WHERE THEY ARE today without their teachers, and for students who have benefited from the unique leadership education designed by Johno Oberly, Denver ’13, the profound impact is evident.
johno
Studying international economics as an undergraduate and earning a master’s in global finance and trade, Johno originally thought he’d work for the World Bank or run a nonprofit. It was a 2013 internship with a charter school, however, that inspired him to apply for the Teach for America program. Johno was hired as an algebra teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School in North Dallas, serving a culturally diverse community with a large ESL student population. He immediately established an after-school club called the Patriot Ambassadors with a mission to give students a voice to address the systemic and structural challenges they faced at school.
TEACHER Johno Oberly, Denver ’13 Dallas, Texas “A lot of times, people who are closest to the problem are closest to the solution.”
“A lot of times, people who are closest to the problem are closest to the solution,” says Johno. “I knew it was important to give students the opportunity to fix issues they were seeing at school.” JOHNO RAN THE AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB for two years before pitching to his principal the idea of operating it during the school day as a class. “The students who wanted to be involved also had younger siblings at home, and they had to work and help their parents with bills,” says Johno. But he knew these students still had the drive and capability to do outstanding work if it was made possible to participate during school hours. Supporting his vision, the program was immediately transformed into a day-time class taught by Johno called Student Voices. It was so well-received that it has expanded to six high schools
in the Dallas area since then. Today, rather than working with students directly in the classroom, Johno develops all of the program’s curriculum and trains the teachers who execute it. His daily routine also expanded to advocating for excellent public education and racial equity in the school system by working directly with local community leaders and school boards. BUT WITH HIS ONGOING OVERSIGHT of Student Voices, Johno is still a recognizable fixture in the classroom. “He’s sort of like the backbone of the class,” says one student. The class takes on a workshop-style setup and is home to about 15 students per school, each with unique personalities and opinions that are brought to the table while working together toward one common goal. Each student has an individual project that they lead, as well as one large class project aimed at improving the school or the larger community, some choosing to address homeless or low-income issues they see affecting their peers, some advocating for the equality of resources across classrooms, and others boosting school pride through a better lunchroom experience. “Even by walking in this room, I feel like I’m in another universe,” says a student. “We’re here to do something. We’re empowered to speak up and people hear us. Because of that, I have a lot more confidence now.” “Students have incredible capacity to lean in, think critically and act boldly,” adds Johno. “We just have to empower them with the permission and space to do so.” The attitudes and accomplishments these students graduate with are a true testament to Johno’s impact in the classroom — and by extension, Beta’s value of cultivation of the intellect, which he passes on to them.
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campus life student highlights Rochester Beta Readies for Battle on American Ninja Warrior
To say Will Schlageter, Rochester ’20, enjoys a challenge would be an understatement. Somehow, the senior chemistry, biology and environmental science triple major balances his coursework with his roles as colony vice president and competition chair for the University Rock Climbing Club. But he now has his eyes on another prize – becoming an American Ninja Warrior. Schlageter first applied to face the show’s grueling obstacle course at age 13, before he was even eligible to compete. He has been preparing for his chance at the famous warped wall ever since, first as a teenager on a course built in his backyard and now by committing to three-hour workouts in a local Ninja Warrior gym. Last spring, his dedication paid off when he was chosen to compete in the show’s upcoming season. Schlageter completed his course run in late April, but can’t disclose the results until the episode airs this summer. Stay up-to-date by following him on Instagram at @_william_squilliam_.
notablehighlights Another Goldwater
Neil Baugh, NC State ’20, has been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship. Awarded to less than 500 college students each year, recipients are considered among the nation’s most promising young scientists and engineers. Baugh is studying materials science and engineering, and recently took his experience as an undergraduate researcher abroad as part of Engineers Without Borders.
Strong Showing
Mr. Cardinal
SMU Celebrates 10 Years
Recolonized in 2009, last spring Gamma Omega celebrated its tenth year since returning to campus with a parent and alumni banquet, which included a philanthropy auction that raised over $12,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
A Spirit of Service
Serving the community is second nature for Beta at Johns Hopkins. Last semester, the men cleaned and planted trees at the local Wyman Park Dell and collected over $2,000 worth of food for the Maryland Food Bank.
The Beta House: TCU
Brothers at TCU were welcomed into a brand new chapter house last fall that stands four stories tall and features the pillars and wide porches popular in Greek architecture. Along with bed space for 25 and modern bathrooms, the home’s amenities include a chapter meeting room, laundry area, multiple full kitchens, event space and even a custom pool table bearing the Fraternity’s coat of arms. While the university covered the cost of construction and labor, chapter savings plus alumni and parent donations totaling $73,000 secured premium finishes and furnishings for this new Beta jewel.
Betas Answer the Call to Lead
The campaigns are long and tedious, the job stressful and thankless, yet there is no greater honor on a college campus than to earn the confidence of one’s peers and be elected student body president. An impressive seven brothers won that distinction this spring, and will continue Beta’s tradition as “The Leadership Fraternity” by serving their schools during the 2019-20 academic year. 1
1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6| 7|
Henry Snyder, Centre ’20 Jack Johnson, Elon ’20 Evan Steinberg, Florida State ’20 Alex Bush, High Point ’20 Jacob Lockhart, Idaho ’20 Josh Witkop, TCU ’20 David Rivero, Texas Tech ’20
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33 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
A Louisville Beta has been named “Mr. Cardinal” – an honor annually bestowed on one U of L man for academic achievement, work in the community and involvement in campus activities. Chris Tipton ’19, is the first Delta Pi to earn the title in 16 years.
CAMPUS LIFE
In April, two Betas competed at the USA Powerlifting Collegiate Nationals. In their respective weight classes, Rob Escalante, Texas A&M ’20, placed third, while Ben Weinberger, Pittsburgh ’19, placed seventh.
Desert Adventurer It was a semester full of adventures for Tommi Redl, British Columbia ’20, whose time studying abroad in the Czech Republic carried him on a whirlwind tour of Europe. Perhaps his most exotic excursion, however, came after boarding a plane for Africa to explore the dunes of the Sahara Desert camelback.
CAMPUS LIFE
34 THE BETA THETA PI
A | To Whom Our Song
Brothers in birth, Beta and competition, UC San Diego’s Jayden and Luke Schofield ’21, took first and third place, respectively, at April’s USA Triathlon Collegiate Club Championships.
B | Survivors
After interning with the Campus Assault Resources and Education office, Emmanuel Okowi, UC Irvine ’19, (back center) debuted a new clothing line, Survivors, to raise awareness for and celebrate the strength of those suffering physical, mental or sexual trauma.
A
CAMPUS LIFE
C | Betas Go Bald
Brave Indiana Betas lost their locks supporting childhood cancer research. Their efforts raised $7,300 for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, putting their threeyear total at more than $30,000.
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B
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
D | Cali Betas Trek North
For spring break, Loyola Marymount Betas left the warmth of Los Angeles and trekked north to frigid Crater Lake in Oregon. With that view, though, the shift in weather seems worth it.
E | Thanks in Advance
Miami Betas delivered coffee and green donuts to Oxford police as the squad prepared for a long, tedious shift ahead of students’ annual part St. Patrick’s Day, part spring break celebration dubbed “Green Beer Day” A much needed (and appreciated) gesture for the men in blue.
D
F | FIU Sets a Record
With help from fellow Greek organizations, Florida International’s Beta Breakdown event brought in $37,000 for the American Cancer Society.
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“Following paths old Wooglin blazed for us.” LIMITED EDITION BLAZER $189
Custom embossed buttons and embroidered Beta crest and letters on “delicate shades” lining
CUSTOM NEEDLEPOINT BELT $89
Embroidered Beta crest and letters on high quality harness leather with solid brass buckle
BETA.ORG/BLAZERBELT
Order by September 30 for December delivery
Pictured: David Wong, Central Michigan ’17
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STATE OF THE FRATERNITY
BROTHERHOOD 1
chapter closed by Beta’s Board of Trustees – the lowest number in more than 20 years.
81%
of undergraduates completed the firstever Beta Brotherhood Assessment, providing officers with chapter-level insight in areas of health and safety. The completion rate sets an industry record.
138
campuses bear the Beta name as of May 2019 – a mere two groups shy of the 140 peak at Men of Principle’s 1998 inception.
3,621
men pledged by Beta chapters and colonies in 2018-19, dropping the average chapter size to 76 men.
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Undergraduate Commissioners appointed, giving voice to the Fraternity’s youngest members through Beta’s Board of Trustees.
3.23
all-chapter GPA recorded for 2018 – still 0.15 points above the campus all-male average, but down 0.01 points from 2017.
42
chapters and colonies piloted the Fraternity’s new member orientation program, Sons of the Stars.
1,873
total Betas and Friends of Beta gave their time and talent as General Fraternity, chapter or house corporation volunteers.
HOME 37%
increase in the Fraternity’s year-over-year liability insurance rate – an all-time high fueled by incidents industry wide.
67
alumni-owned houses received property insurance through Beta Theta Pi’s Cornerstone Housing Program.
2,746
members housed in one of 99 total Beta chapter properties aross North America.
37 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
3
undergraduate brothers lost to suicide, bringing the Fraternity face-to-face with the mental health epidemic.
PERSONAL GROWTH
STATE OF THE FRATERNITY
Beta has worked hard to earn the admiration and respect of its Greek peers since Men of Principle debuted in 1998. After 20 years, however, the question is clear: Can the Fraternity continue to raise the bar? In 2018-19, the answer was yes! Along with other initiatives supporting the Fraternity’s strategic priorities of Brotherhood, Personal Growth and Home, the introduction of the Beta Brotherhood Assessment, elimination of substances from chapter homes and creation of the General Fraternity House Corporation showed that, while there is still important work to do, the future is bright for our Great and Good Fraternity.
10,119
college-aged men called Beta Theta Pi “home” in 2019 – a 1% decrease from 2018 but 48% increase from 1997 before implementation of Men of Principle.
1,910
brothers graduated from a Betasponsored leadership program; 25,231 total since the launch of Men of Principle in 1998.
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2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage 3.23
chapter reports
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
your alma mater
14
Including a quantitative 2018-19 chapter performance review of academics, recruitment, leadership and advisory support, all 138 chapter and colony presidents weigh in about their chapter highlights from this spring.
Alabama
CHAPTER REPORTS
10 | 11
53/162 | 50
8 | 9
With 155 active members, Delta Theta continues to have a strong presence on Alabama’s campus. Our chapter continues to thrive in all areas, including brotherhood, academics, intramurals and involvement. In March, we hosted a successful blood drive benefiting the American Red Cross.
14 | NA
28/48 | NA
7 | NA
In April, we held an educational event for all active members featuring a guest speaker on Title IX and sexual violence. Our brotherhood grew stronger through events such as paintball, hiking, a video game tournament and a retreat to Payson, Arizona.
THE BETA THETA PI
American
10/26 | 13
1 | 9
Last semester was filled with many achievements, including the recruitment of a solid class of men and claiming the highest fall GPA with a 3.528. As we make our second-largest transition since our Founding Fathers graduated, we look forward to building on our brotherhood.
3.21 | 3.06
6 | 7
Delta Beta had another successful year in recruitment, bringing in nearly 40 freshmen. The chapter’s GPA has been on a steady incline, aiming to break the 3.0 threshold once spring 2019 grades are finalized. With support from alumni, we are raising money for a privacy wall.
73/156 | 58
9 | 10
Last spring, Eta Mu had another successful “Beta Beach Ball” volleyball tournament benefiting the B+ Foundation. We recruited and initiated over 65 new men into our chapter last year, growing our ranks to 158 – the third-largest Beta chapter in the nation.
| Bethany, W.Va. | Est. 1860 Andrew Weiss ’21 andrew.weiss98@yahoo.com
3.00 | 2.77
47/115 | 47
7 | 6
This past April, our chapter celebrated its 55th anniversary. We had an extremely successful alumni weekend with some 50 of our alumni participating, helping to reestablish the connection between generations that had been lacking in recent years.
17 | 12
9/25 | 14
9 | 10
The exec team made it a point to build a relationship with the community. In doing so, Beta hosted a community picnic where everything was free for attendees. We also supported our brothers on the baseball team.
British Columbia
| Auburn, Ala. | Est. 1964 Paul Berthon ’20 pdb0013@auburn.edu 12 | 11
5 | 6
Ψ
ΓΟ | Vancouver, B.C. | Est. 1936 Quentin McDermott ’20 q.t.mcdermott@gmail.com
ΔΖ
3.10 | 2.95
20/43 | 18
Bethany
Auburn
| Tucson, Ariz. | Est. 1959 Matthew J Ericson ’20 mjericson@email.arizona.edu 51/124 | 53
24 | 21
14 | 12
The Delta Psi Chapter participated in the annual All University Sing competition, earning crowd favorite for the comedic relief provided by our five blow-up dinosaur costumes. This year’s graduating class is going off to various law schools and MBA programs, military service and highly sought-after careers.
| Fayetteville, Ark. | Est. 2016 Strohmann Breeding ’20 swbreedi@uark.edu
ΔΒ
10 | 10
3.21 | NR
HM
Arizona
NR | 2.90
| Waco, Texas | Est. 1980 Jake Arnold ’20 Jake_Arnold@baylor.edu
ΔΨ
Arkansas
| Washington, D.C. | Est. 2017 Shivang Bhakta ’19 sb3190a@student.american.edu HΠ
8 | 10
Baylor
| Tempe, Ariz. | Est. 1977 Joe Moloczyj ’20 jmoloczy@asu.edu
38
3.44 | NR
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
ΔT
2.99 | NR
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Arizona State
| Tuscaloosa, Ala. | Est. 1965 Andrew Strickland ’20 jastrickland@cirmson.ua.edu
ΔΘ
3.01 | 3.03
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
3.26 | NR
9 | 10
17/64 | 26
7 | 8
Last spring, Gamma Omicron won the sports trophy for the seventh consecutive year. We also held a successful philanthropy event in support of the Vancouver Lookout Society. Additionally, a Gamma Omicron sits as president of the IFC, furthering our interfraternal relations.
Butler
Case Western Reserve
| Indianapolis, Ind. | Est. 1878 Brian Modelski ’21 bmodelsk@butler.edu
3.38 | 3.24
29 | NA
23/68 | NA
12 | NA
In our second year, we raised over $1,500 for the Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault, raised the most money on campus during Polar Plunge and produced a motivating video that helped us recruit 22 great new members.
3.41 | 3.39
This past academic year, the Epsilon Delta Chapter finished with one of the top GPAs of all Cal Poly IFC chapters. Additionally, we held a hugely successful parents weekend where we got to share our house, brotherhood and friendships with our loved ones.
11 | 9
NR | NR
37/97 | 31
10 | 9
During fall recruitment, we recruited the largest class in chapter history and across all of Greek life. We are also sending eight brothers to Wooden this summer. Last spring, we participated in a philanthropy hockey game with campus fraternities that raised $16,000.
6 | 6
Cincinnati
| Mount Pleasant, Mich. | Est. 1985 Brandon Urban ’20 urban1br@cmich.edu 12 | 16
34/91 | 34
Last term, our chapter recruited 11 new members and shifted focus toward increasing its GPA. We were excited to kick off our third annual Beta Theta Paws philanthropy event supporting a local OC animal shelter.
| Cincinnati, Ohio | Est. 1840 David Nemcek ’20 DANemcek@gmail.com
ΕΓ
NR | NR
12 | 13
ΒΝ
3.38 | 3.14
25 | 23
40/127 | 39
5 | 7
Beta Nu hosted its first mental health awareness week last spring, raising over $10,000 in honor of the brother we lost last year. We continue to have intramural success across campus and posted high marks in academia. Our co-op students are located across nine states, representing us professionally.
CHAPTER REPORTS
5 | 4
9/31 | 15
HΘ
Central Michigan
| San Luis Obispo, Calif. | Est. 1986 Blake Pederson ’20 bpederson1898@gmail.com 26/78 | 33
13 | 15
Last semester, brothers of the Lambda Kappa - Beta Chapter earned campus-wide awards in the categories of ritual and scholarship for our dedication and involvement in and out of the Greek community. Other semester highlights included participation in our annual Greek Games, and a great spring formal.
ΕΔ
10 | 12
| Orange, Calif. | Est. 2015 Nico Martinez ’20 marti645@mail.chapman.edu
ΛΚ-Β
Cal Poly
2.96 | 2.99
Chapman
| Cleveland, Ohio | Est. 1979 Carter Van Fossen ’22 crv22@case.edu
AΨ
39 Centre
| Ottawa, Ont. | Est. 1991 Griffin O’Brien ’22 griffano520@outlook.com NR | NR
9 | 7
19/42 | 14
7 | 7
The Epsilon Upsilon Chapter saw strong growth this past year. After strong Beta Beta and Beta Gamma pledge classes, the chapter will continue to elevate the bond between the growing band of brothers and the need to push one another to excel in our day-today lives.
Jurassic Waco
Baylor’s student newspaper said of Delta Psi’s dino-packed “Jurassic Waco” act at the annual All-University Sing competition: “It was without a doubt the funniest act of the evening. When the blow-up dinosaurs came on stage, the entire audience was dying laughing. If it were all about humor, they’d have won Sing by a mile.”
Clemson
| Danville, Ky. | Est. 1848 Cyrus Dutton ’19 cyrus.dutton@centre.edu
ΕΥ
| Clemson, S.C. | Est. 1970 Berkeley Geho ’21 bgeho@clemson.edu
Ε
3.28 | 3.02
16 | 15
26/69 | 17
12 | 12
This past spring, Epsilon initiated our largest pledge class in history – 25 members. This not only continues two years of new member classes with 20 or more men, but also makes Epsilon the largest fraternity on Centre’s campus. Special thanks for all the alumni support.
ΔΝ
3.17 | 3.03
14 | 10
26/113 | 32
8 | 7
The Delta Nu Chapter closed out a strong semester with The Dragon Classic, our annual alumni golf tournament. We also enjoyed celebrating with all of Tiger Town after winning this year’s National Championship. Our intramural basketball team knocked off Coach Dabo Swinney’s squad in the third round of the playoffs.
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
Carleton
Colgate
Columbia
| Hamilton, N.Y. | Est. 1880 Jack Hochman ’20 jhochman@colgate.edu
3.30 | NR
17 | 9
16/49 | 21
9 | 9
One of last term’s most exciting initiatives was taking the primary steps toward refurbishing our chapter room. We also had two philanthropy events, one for domestic violence awareness and another to help out the local elementary school. Both had a great turnout.
3.73 | NR
CHAPTER REPORTS
9 | NA
We completed and distributed an alumni newsletter to all Beta Tau alumni in the area, successfully held our first initiation (of our Alpha class), and participated in Greek Week where we took first and second in Songfest.
40
3.41 | 3.11
THE BETA THETA PI
8 | 9
We hosted Ski-a-thon at Loveland Ski Area for the first time in a while and the results were amazing, accumulating $7,500 through donations and tickets sold at the event, with proceeds going to the Second Wind Fund.
3.23
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
23/92 | 33
4 | 8
17/58 | 22
12 | 11
The Beta Delta Chapter continued to have intramural sports success, winning seven different sports and claiming the Intramural Cup! We also had one of our brothers elected as the sole student member of the Cornell Board of Trustees in a campus-wide election.
3.36 | 2.95
10 | 8
We had our best and largest recruitment cycle to date for both the spring and fall with seven and 23 men, respectively, and have regained the highest GPA on campus. We also celebrated our first John Reily Knox Day, and hope to continue that tradition.
7 | NA
| Granville, Ohio | Est. 1868 Chris Nakon ’20 nakon_c1@denison.edu
AH
3.26 | 3.10
8 | 8
16/40 | 13
4 | 5
The Alpha Eta Chapter had a successful year. On campus, we won multiple academic awards as well as one brother winning Male Greek Athlete of the Year. We held two philanthropy events supporting the local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.
Denver
| Omaha, Neb. | Est. 2015 Michael Padgett ’20 michaelpadgett@creighton.edu 30/84 | 22
25/65 | NA
Denison
AZ | Denver, Colo. | Est. 1889 Bryan Tanigawa ’20 president.alphazeta.btp@gmail.com
HI
21 | 18
22 | NA
The Delaware colony has maintained the highest GPA of any IFC fraternity on our campus since our founding in 2017. Additionally, this past semester we achieved the highest amount of service hours of any IFC Fraternity and inducted nine exceptional young men into our ranks.
Creighton
3.60 | NR
7 | 8
Colony | Newark, Del. Garret Christino ’20 garretdc@udel.edu
| Ithaca, N.Y. | Est. 1879 Michael Sarkis ’20 mjs639@cornell.edu 16 | 15
20/75 | 26
Delaware
ΒΔ
3.54 | NR
15 | 17
We assisted the General Fraternity in piloting the new Sons of the Stars pledging process. Meeting these new pledges was a blast and they were a great addition to our chapter. Initiation at Miami was a great time, as always, and we had a very fun and successful dads weekend.
Cornell
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
16 | 13
The Zeta Chi Chapter continued its philanthropic efforts for the annual 18-hour HuskyTHON, where UConn raised $1.3 million for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. With extensive efforts from VP of Philanthropy Kiran Daggula, we were able to raise more money than any other fraternity!
| Golden, Colo. | Est. 1908 Tyler Southern ’20 tsouthern@mymail.mines.edu 37/91 | 28
3.39 | 3.18
| Storrs, Conn. | Est. 2004 Ian George ’20 ian.george@uconn.edu
ΒΦ
9 | 16
5 | 8
ΖΧ
Colorado Mines
3.20 | 3.15
14/63 | 22
HΔ
Connecticut
| Boulder, Colo. | Est. 1900 Scott Albertoni ’20 scal7890@colorado.edu 37/29 | NA
1 | 14
In coordination with our generous alumni house corporation, we completed a comprehensive renovation of our chapter house interior. We hope to make further improvements to our house in future semesters, including refurbishing the home’s facade.
ΒΤ
12 | NA
| Dayton, Ohio | Est. 2009 Parker Schassberger ’21 schassbergerp1@udayton.edu
ΑΑ
Colorado
3.13 | 2.95
Dayton
| New York, N.Y. | Est. 1881 Armand Pappas ’21 ap3175@columbia.edu
ΒΘ
3.48 | 3.23
19 | 13
44/111 | 32
8 | 7
The Alpha Zeta Chapter had another noteworthy year. Highlights included the second annual Alumni Gala in May and the eighth annual philanthropic event benefiting the Gabby Krause Foundation in February. We’re also unbelievably proud of Alpha Zeta alumni Dick Evans, who recently received the prestigious Oxford Cup.
Introducing Eta Upsilon
With 102 members, incoming student body president and a brotherhood ranked first in grades, Beta at Elon is a total success story. At an April 13 ceremony attended by 250 brothers, friends and General Secretary S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73, the men’s years of hard work paid off when Eta Upsilon was officially installed as a chapter. DePauw
Eastern Kentucky
| Greencastle, Ind. | Est. 1845 Alexander Guest ’20 alexanderguest_2020@depauw.edu 12 | 10
24/93 | 32
1 | 5
Recruitment numbers were slightly lower than expected after the introduction of new policies, but we were very happy to initiate 19 new members. Our GPA keeps us at a strong second place overall compared to all campus IFC chapters. We’ve hosted many successful philanthropy events for local charities.
2.92 | 2.92
Last spring, we participated in Drexel’s annual Greek Week and put on a successful Rocky-themed talent show. We also organized a basketball team to participate in Anchor Slam, a philanthropy event hosted by Delta Gamma. We ended the term with a successful spring recruitment and are beginning preparations for a great fall rush.
2.75 | 3.04
7 | 5
ECU hosted a successful alumni baseball tailgate last spring, along with other philanthropic events. The active brothers worked toward completing directives for the General Fraternity in order to be relieved of suspension status, emphasizing GPA this semester and hoping to improve going forward.
p38-51_ChapterReports_smr19.indd 41
16 | 10
10/42 | 30
1 | 8
Last winter, Epsilon Omega’s chapter GPA surpassed the all-fraternity, all-SFL and allEWU GPAs, with 30% of brothers making the Dean’s List. The chapter also added new hardware to its trophy case after winning Greek Week and built brotherhood on another amazing trip to Kettle Falls.
9 | 7
| Gainesville, Fla. | Est. 1930 Chase Cleveland ’21 chase.cleveland@ufl.edu
ΓΞ
3.29 | 3.22
21 | NA
27/103 | 49
5 | NA
The Eta Upsilon Chapter celebrated our charter installation with family, friends and alumni in April. We also carried out our annual “1,100 Hours” service campaign, far surpassing our fundraising goal. The money we raised was donated to our local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
51/137 | 53
4 | 5
Florida Gulf Coast
| Elon, N.C. | Est. 2019 Francesco Storm ’20 fstorm@elon.edu
Colony | Fort Myers, Fla. Steven Ciaccio ’19 sciaccio97@gmail.com
HΥ
3.35 | 3.11
15 | 17
Last year, we were fortunate enough to put on our 10th annual Beta Bring It On, a cheerleading competition that raises money for the National Alzheimer’s Association. This philanthropy is one of the largest on campus, raising more than $12,000 – the most in over five years.
Elon
| Greenville, N.C. | Est. 1983 Jamie Sherron ’19 JamieSherron1@gmail.com 13/37 | 18
7/29 | 23
Florida
| Cheney, Wash. | Est. 1993 Reilly Responte ’20 rresponte@eagles.ewu.edu
ΕΑ
9 | 9
9 | 8
Gamma Upsilon had a great year socially and we really enjoyed the first year back in our historic house. Also, one of our brothers was elected as vice president of the campus IFC. The future looks bright for our chapter.
ΕΩ
East Carolina
2.35 | 2.73
NR | 3.42
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
6 | 4
13 | 7
Eastern Washington
| Philadelphia, Pa. | Est. 2017 Naman Shah ’23 nss94@drexel.edu 7/24 | 11
22/40 | 24
41
HO
11 | 18
14 | 10
Morale is high within the chapter following two solid pledge classes that were among the largest on campus. We remained steadfast in our involvement on campus and hosted fundraising and philanthropic events to benefit local organizations in Richmond. Homecoming is set for October 4-5!
Drexel
3.04 | 3.12
ΓΥ | Atlanta, Ga. | Est. 1948 Jackson Hill ’20 jackson.hill@emory.edu
ΔΞ
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.22 | 3.08
Emory
| Richmond, Ky. | Est. 1971 Miles Braden Venable ’21 bradenvenable@hotmail.com
Δ
3.22 | 2.83
14 | NA
50/46 | NA
10 | NA
From supporting other Greek organizations to having our own VP of brotherhood, Sam Palmisano, inducted into FGCU’s Hall of Fame, the brothers of the Florida Gulf Coast colony have been hard at work making a name for ourselves on campus. It’s clear that southwest Florida is full of Beta Spirit.
5/28/19 11:57 AM
Florida International
George Mason
| Miami, Fla. | Est. 2010 Daniel Andres Velez ’21 danvelez01@gmail.com
NR | 2.94
13 | 18
26/65 | 39
6 | 6
Eta Gamma hosted one of the largest philanthropy events at FIU, Beta Breakdown, where teams of fraternities and sororities raised over $37,000 for the American Cancer Society and Relay For Life. Eta Gamma had an extremely successful spring class and is growing in numbers.
3.00 | 2.90
CHAPTER REPORTS
3 | 6
For the fourth-straight semester, we had the highest GPA among IFC fraternities. Two of our brothers were elected student body president and treasurer. We held the Line Dance philanthropy event with three other fraternities that raised $105,000 for the university.
16/41 | 46
10 | NA
3.15 | 2.77
18 | 13
30/86 | 29
10 | 9
We restructured how we raise funds for our philanthropy, allowing our final total of $10,000 to be donated to National Alliance on Mental Illness. We were also recognized by the GW Fraternity and Sorority Life Office with awards in accountability, service, scholarship, active leadership and community.
33/83 | 30
4 | 7
Houston
| Washington, D.C. | Est. 1997 Shalin Bhatt ’20 shalinbhatt@gwu.edu
| Houston, Texas | Est. 1977 Diego Tolentino ’20 president.uhbeta@gmail.com
ΖΝ
NR | 3.30
19 | 21
The High Point chapter has recruited one of our strongest classes of 13 outstanding young men. We continue to hold the highest GPA across campus and hosted a successful week of philanthropy with proceeds supporting a book drive for the library at Kirkman Elementary.
George Washington
| Tallahassee, Fla. | Est. 1969 Ryan Masotti ’20 rmm17e@my.fsu.edu 42/130 | 49
16 | NA
With nine initiated brothers and several successful events last term, our brothers are more motivated than ever to reach our goal of receiving our charter. We’re excited to continue on this upward trajectory and look forward to the fall!
ΔΛ
30 | 19
HΞ | High Point, N.C. | Est. 2017 Noah Benjamin ’20 nbenjami@highpoint.edu
EM
Florida State
3.22 | 3.01
High Point
| Fairfax, Va. | Est. 1989 Micah Mudlaff ’20 mmudlaff@gmu.edu
ΗΓ
ΔU
3.30 | 2.89
20 | NA
8/17 | 14
10 | NA
Last semester, the brotherhood focused on growing on our established success. Two awards were presented to the colony for our performance in upholding the areas of intellectual growth and ritual and values. We continue to participate in UH’s traditions and monthly alumni events.
42 THE BETA THETA PI
Furman
Georgia
| Greenville, S.C. | Est. 1998 Max Norman ’20 max.norman@furman.edu 3.11 | 3.04
11 | 9
13/25 | 12
3 | 5
Zeta Lambda showed excellence in academics with a GPA above the all-men’s average and ranking second among campus fraternities. This past spring, we participated in the Sons of the Stars pilot program and are excited to continue being a part of the new program.
3.23
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
ΓΓ | Moscow, Idaho | Est. 1914 Antonio Gallegos Buitron ’20 noni.ag75@gmail.com
ΕΕ
3.44 | 3.16
15 | 15
31/113 | 30
6 | 8
Epsilon Epsilon has enjoyed the 30 new members from the fall recruitment class. We hosted a successful philanthropy event to benefit the Athens Humane Society. Through our fundraising and on-site event, many residents of Athens were able to enjoy a bite to eat and play with dogs.
3.18 | 2.92
15 | 16
34/85 | 22
10 | 10
Our chapter won first place campus awards for leadership and philanthropy, leading to us also winning the Dean Dull Best Overall Fraternity award for the first time in seven years. We look forward to continued growth and improvement for next year!
24/83 | 27
5 | 5
Indiana
| Atlanta, Ga. | Est. 1917 Blake Heyer ’20 blakeheyer15@gmail.com
| Bloomington, Ind. | Est. 1845 Payton Ortiz ’21 paytondeuce@gmail.com
ΓΗ
NR | 3.34
14 | 17
This past year at the Idaho chapter, we focused our philanthropy efforts on the University of Idaho’s student needs. We hosted a variety of events such as a 5k run walk for suicide awareness and a haunted house where all proceeds went to the Vandal Food Pantry.
Georgia Tech
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
Idaho
| Athens, Ga. | Est. 1987 Blake Heyer ’20 blakeheyer15@gmail.com
ΖΛ
Π
NR | 3.12
12 | 10
49/119 | 53
3 | 7
This past semester, we held another successful event for our philanthropy, St. Baldrick’s, in which many of our members and friends shaved their heads in support of cancer research. Our current president, Parker Hewitt ’21, won Most Outstanding Greek Member at IU.
Service on the Streets
Brothers from the Tau Sigma Chapter at Iowa State took their interfraternal spirit to the streets when they joined Tau Kappa Epsilon, Lambda Chi Alpha and Sigma Pi for the campus IFC Roadside Cleanup. Thanks to these men’s service, highway 30 has never looked better! Iowa
John Carroll
| Iowa City, Iowa | Est. 1866 Brandon Eckhardt ’20 beckhardt@uiowa.edu 14 | 20
26/67 | 31
6 | 4
Last term, our intramural basketball team made it to the third round of the playoffs, we had a philanthropy event benefiting the Rape Victim Advocacy Program, we welcomed four new members in our spring pledge class and carried over a 2.98 chapter GPA.
3.18 | 2.95
8 | 10
Last year, we placed a special emphasis on philanthropy and community service through a very successful event benefiting Special Olympics Iowa and also becoming more involved in servicing both the Ames and sorority and fraternity communities.
NR | 3.49
57/53 | NA
8 | NA
The James Madison colony initiated our first pledge class last spring. We focused on building brotherhood and a sense of belonging in a very traditional Greek community. In our first semester, we obtained the highest GPA among fraternities at JMU.
p38-51_ChapterReports_smr19.indd 43
7 | 9
13/43 | 18
7 | 8
Last semester, we set important goals for ourselves and achieved significant change. We have reformed our Kai Committee, changed the way we do chapter meetings and elevated brothers’ spirits. We even replaced one of our chapter meetings with a brotherhood event!
| Lexington, Ky. | Est. 1990 Andrew Edgington ’20 andrewedgington@hotmail.com
EO
3.48 | 3.03
9 | 9
Last spring, Alpha Nu had another successful semester. We hosted the fourth TomStrong 5k, an annual race event dedicated to creating scholarships and enhancing accessibility on the university’s campus. We also had significant contributions to campus politics: Noah Ries ’18, just completed his term as student body president.
18 | 21
35/139 | 49
5 | 6
Epsilon Omicron had a great year! We were awarded the Dean’s Cup (IFC Chapter of the Year) along with a Highest Overall Fall Cumulative GPA of 3.551! For the first time, we also co-hosted Greek Sing along with Chi Omega, which brought in over $100,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Homecoming is set for October 12!
Kenyon
| Lawrence, Kan. | Est. 1873 Levi Johnson ’21 levijohnson014@gmail.com 25/97 | 25
6 | 7
Kentucky
ΒΑ | Gambier, Ohio | Est. 1879 Eddie Pozo ’20 pozo1@kenyon.edu
ΑΝ
14 | 12
23/87 | 26
43
Kansas
3.43 | 2.98
15 | 15
After hosting an event at the house last fall, the chapter continues to work to strengthen its alumni relations. Planning is underway to host an even larger event this coming fall. The standard of excellence has been maintained throughout all the chapter’s major exertions.
| Baltimore, Md. | Est. 1877 Ali Rachidi ’20 arachid1@jhu.edu
Colony | Harrisonburg, Va. Kyle Miller ’21 0930kyle@gmail.com 13 | NA
3.33 | 2.94
ΑΧ
James Madison
2.99 | 2.82
7 | 10
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
39/59 | 24
23/45 | 14
Johns Hopkins
| Ames, Iowa | Est. 1905 Jeff Pioquinto ’21 jpio@iastate.edu
ΤΣ
20 | 22
17 | 11
The Eta Epsilon Chapter had another outstanding recruitment year by adding four new members to its roll. We are proud to promote interfraternalism through a Beta IFC president and two additional board members. Our chapter has begun to plan an educational dating violence prevention program with the sororities on campus.
Iowa State
3.09 | 3.00
ΓΕ | Manhattan, Kan. | Est. 1914 Trent Paske ’20 tpaske23@cox.net
ΗΕ
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.01 | 2.89
Kansas State
| University Heights, Ohio | Est. 2010 Chad McWhorter ’20 cmcwhorter20@jcu.edu
ΑΒ
3.23 | 3.38
11 | 10
23/52 | 11
4 | 5
Last year, the Beta Alpha Chapter achieved a great deal. Not only did we surpass the 1,500th pledge on our roll, but we also initiated 22 new members – the most in recent years. The chapter also volunteered a significant number of hours planting trees at the Brown Family Environmental Center on campus.
5/28/19 11:57 AM
Kettering A
Lawrence
| Flint, Mich. | Est. 1964 Brandon Day ’21 day9348@kettering.edu
3.34 | 3.10
19 | 14
4/21 | 8
12 | 12
We hosted our most successful leadership development fundraiser last spring. There, brothers ate peppers of varied heat depending on the amount donated. The event was broadcast through Facebook Live, which allowed for online donations and led to more funds generated than in previous years.
3.26 | NR
CHAPTER REPORTS
11 | 10
After successfully recruiting the largest new member class in recent years, the Delta Eta B Chapter initiated 10 new members while piloting the Sons of the Stars New Member Orientation Program. We are now home to a total of 27 members.
44
NR | 2.95
THE BETA THETA PI
9 | 12
The Xi Chapter completed the nearly $2 million renovation of its house and finally had brothers move in to a new facility. In terms of philanthropy, we raised money for The Trevor Project through a calendar featuring many of our brothers.
3.23
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
40/103 | 40
9 | 9
13 | NA
26/67 | NA
| Orono, Maine | Est. 1879 Sean Van Newkirk ’21 sean.van@maine.edu
BH
2.86 | 2.91
10/47 | 19
11 | 9
| College Park, Md. | Est. 1982 Ryan Davis ’20 ryandrewd@gmail.com
ΔΩ
10 | NA
3.31 | 3.16
Our chapter hosted several successful sandwich-making events with sororities to help feed homeless shelters on skid-row. We held a successful parents weekend event that included service, and a fundraiser which helped raise over $7,000 toward brotherhood events. Currently, we are working on an alumni newsletter.
19/64 | 25
10 | 8
Miami
| Los Angeles, Calif. | Est. 2007 Julian Lam ’20 tlam5@lion.lmu.edu 4 | 6
12 | 12
We received the highest GPA among IFC fraternities and won three awards. Additionally, we recruited 10 great men last semester and added a new advisor, who has been great. Though we had a rocky start, we still had a great spring overall.
A | Oxford, Ohio | Est. 1839 Christian Daniels ’20 danielc7@miamioh.edu
ΗΑ
42/110 | 32
12 | 15
Last year, we worked hard and strove to continually better ourselves as a brotherhood. We attempted to make a difference in our community through our 26th annual Sleep Out philanthropy event for Bangor Rape Response Services in April. We have also started a major house renovation project.
Loyola Marymount
15 | 16
8 | 9
Maryland
We hosted successful philanthropy events in October and April to benefit Misericordia, a home for individuals with developmental and physical disabilities. In October, we raised $5,000 with our annual haunted house and additional bake sale/Pie-a-Pi fundraiser.
NR | 3.10
12/23 | 46
Maine
Colony | Chicago, Ill. David Kwok ’20 dkwok98@gmail.com 3.33 | 3.10
10 | 13
We hosted successful recruitment events at Top Golf and rented out batting cages. We hosted multiple PNMs at both events, and they enjoyed themselves. We also held a successful brotherhood retreat camping at Fontainebleau State Park, where we bonded and watched basketball together.
Loyola Chicago
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
20 | 18
At our FSL awards ceremony, the chapter was recognized with the Best Alumni Relations and Intramural Chair of the Year awards. Additionally, last fall we held two philanthropic events – Karaoke for a Cure and Beta Brainfreeze – with proceeds going to the James Brown Cancer Center. Finally, the chapter laid new floors on the first floor and purchased a new smart TV.
| Galesburg, Ill. | Est. 1855 Aron Zheng ’20 aazheng@knox.edu 12/35 | 14
2.91 | 2.84
| Louisville, Ky. | Est. 1971 Griffin Phillips ’21 gmphil03@louisville.edu
Ξ
10 | 11
3 | 6
ΔΠ
Knox
2.96 | 3.08
7/20 | 11
Louisville
| Flint, Mich. | Est. 1964 Alex Irwin ’21 irwi9577@kettering.edu 10/30 | 8
10 | 11
The chapter went through a challenging reorganization process where we lost a few of our members. However, we pulled through with a new appreciation for brotherhood. We were even able to hold our annual Pancake Breakfast, which helped fund a local Sierra Leone aid program.
ΔΗ
19 | 18
Colony | Baton Rouge, La. John Emerson ’20 jemers6@lsu.edu
ΓΠ
Kettering B
3.41 | 3.11
LSU
| Appleton, Wis. | Est. 1936 Micah Briggs ’21 Micah.e.briggs@lawrence.edu
ΔΗ
3.25 | 3.02
21 | NA
31/88 | NA
11 | NA
The Alpha Chapter has grown significantly both in experience and in numbers. Last spring, we initiated a 22-person pledge class with a 100 percent retention rate. We also grew into our beautiful house. Both areas help us be a positive light in the Greek community on this campus.
Show of Support
A Beta always looks good in pink, but this color coordination by brothers at Missouri was more than a fashion statement, it was an act of solidarity: “The men of Zeta Phi send all their thoughts, prayers and support to those suffering from the affliction of breast cancer.” Miami (Fla.)
Minnesota
| Miami, Fla. | Est. 2009 Nolan Prendergast ’20 nolanprendergast@ymail.com
8 | 8
31/99 | 34
6 | 6
We participated in FunDay, a day of service where our members had a buddy and played games with them. We also participated in A Walk in Her Shoes, which was a charity event dealing with sexual assault prevention. Many IFC chapters, including ours, participated, and we had over 80 members attend.
3.37 | 3.18
6 | 10
Lambda Chapter worked hard last term to continue our steady growth. Thanks to our first VP of philanthropy, Joshua Tow ’21, we raised $2,500 for charitable causes. Moreover, the university awarded Lambda’s 2018 President, Nathan Kane ’19, IFC Chapter President of the Year. Go Blue, Go Beta!
2.83 | 2.68
11 | 11
This semester, our chapter committed itself to a 10% increase in pledge retention from previous semesters. In doing so, we had a pledge retention rate of 100%. No one expected complete retention, but it was a collective effort and we’re really proud of the chapter.
p38-51_ChapterReports_smr19.indd 45
73/136 | 73
5 | 7
We hosted our annual spring philanthropy event for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Raising over $4,500. Also, we had nine men elected or appointed to the associated student body. We have the most members of any Greek organization on campus.
BY | Boston, Mass. | Est. 1913 Brad Chavero-Correa ’22 bchavero@mit.edu
3.36 | NR
37/144 | 40
8 | 7
We came in first place for house GPA and new member GPA among IFC-recognized fraternities. Our chapter was also recognized by the University of Missouri with the Chancellor’s Award for most outstanding IFC fraternity, based on grades, philanthropy and good standing in the community.
19 | 12
16/36 | 11
4 | 6
Beta Upsilon completed a successful spring rush with three new members! Additionally, we have developed an academic assistance program to support our brothers in the classroom, integrated the Sons of the Stars New Member Orientation Program into our chapter and volunteered at the Boston Marathon.
NC State
| Columbia, Mo. | Est. 1890 Charles Caprio ’21 charles.caprio@missouribeta.com 9 | 10
6 | 6
MIT
| Raleigh, N.C. | Est. 2017 Cole Beck ’20 cdbeck@ncsu.edu
ZΦ
3.34 | 3.02
22/NA | 26
45
Missouri
| East Lansing, Mich. | Est. 1950 Denver Paver ’20 paverden@msu.edu 41/87 | 32
18 | 11
4 | 10
Chapter operations at Missouri-Kansas City have been suspended until fall 2019 due to concerns about risk management. The General Fraternity and university continue to work toward a long-term solution for the chapter with the involvement of local alumni and advisors.
| University, Miss. | Est. 1879 Thomas Gibilterra ’20 tjgibilt@go.olemiss.edu
ΓΨ
12 | 15
NR | 3.17
BB
Michigan State
3.06 | 3.07
9 | 8
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
20/53 | 22
22/82 | 29
ΕΛ
Mississippi
| Ann Arbor, Mich. | Est. 1845 Ian Ross ’21 ihross@umich.edu
Λ
12 | 9
25 | 23
For our philanthropy last fall, the Minnesota chapter raised over $4,000 for the Aurora Center, which provides resources for sexual assault survivors. In addition, we have reached 130 uninterrupted years on the Minnesota campus, which makes us the longest-standing chapter currently at the university.
Michigan
3.34 | 3.33
| Kansas City, Mo. | Est. 1989 Dir. Chapter Services Austin Marple austin.marple@beta.org
ΒΠ
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.37 | 3.25
Missouri-Kansas City
| Minneapolis, Minn. | Est. 1889 Nicholas Gionet ’20 ngionet8@gmail.com
HB
HP
3.26 | 3.11
15 | 17
27/72 | 27
10 | 13
The Eta Rho Chapter is finalizing the establishment of a chapter house for the next academic year! Finally, the North Carolina State chapter will be able to institutionalize the values of Beta Theta Pi in a beautiful home for its committed men of principle.
5/28/19 11:57 AM
Nebraska
North Carolina
| Lincoln, Neb. | Est. 1888 Kevin Woolworth ’20 kwooly14@gmail.com
3.45 | 2.98
12 | 14
34/108 | 34
12 | 8
Our chapter continued its well-rounded success in the spring semester, winning multiple intramural championships and raising money for both St. Jude’s through our philanthropy event with Delta Delta Delta and the local Food Bank of Lincoln’s backpack program through our event with Phi Delta Theta and Pi Kappa Alpha.
3.27 | 3.23
CHAPTER REPORTS
25/76 | NA
10 | NA
2.89 | 3.02
THE BETA THETA PI
7 | NA
Our colony started its first year in the state of New Mexico and achieved a great brotherhood with caring members who give back to the community and are leaders around campus. In addition, we reached out to alumni in our area and started a newsletter and events.
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
21/51 | 21
7 | 6
36/93 | 26
8 | 8
It was a great semester for the Eta Zeta Chapter in Boston. We raised over $11,000 for Relay for Life and had a successful Balloon-a-Beta philanthropy event benefiting Camp Sunshine. We were also able to hold a successful parents weekend and an enjoyable formal in the Berkshires!
| Columbus, Ohio | Est. 1885 Tommy Weber ’20 weber.909@osu.edu
3.38 | 3.17
5 | 4
We had four brothers walk at this year’s graduation, three of which received their white coats. The other has also passed his nursing certification test and is officially qualified to start practicing as a nurse. Our chapter also had a successful Relay for Life event.
6 | 8
ΓΦ | Norman, Okla. | Est. 1907 Liam Ferrer ’20 Liam.Ferrer-1@ou.edu
3.35 | NR
18 | 19
57/205 | 59
13 | 11
This January, Gamma Phi successfully initiated 53 new members into our chapter. Additionally, the chapter received the Standards of Excellence Award from the University of Oklahoma for our academic and philanthropic achievements. Finally, this spring we once again hosted a philanthropy event for the Big Brother Big Sister program.
Oklahoma State
| Fort Lauderdale, Fla. | Est. 1997 Dillon Burke ’19 dburke1257@gmail.com 7/11 | 11
44/131 | 41
Oklahoma
ΓΛ | Stillwater, Okla. | Est. 1923 Ashton Conner ’21 ashton.conner@okstate.edu
ZM
7 | 9
10 | 25
We have already raised $6,000 of our $15,000 goal this year for the Columbus Star House youth homeless shelter. Our intramural soccer team won the all-fraternity division for the second consecutive year. Also, we won Tri Delta’s annual dodgeball tournament last Spring.
Nova Southeastern
NR | 3.06
7 | 7
ΘΔ
| Boston, Mass. | Est. 2013 David Rans ’21 rans.d@husky.neu.edu 16 | 14
34/109 | 38
Ohio State
ΗΖ
3.50 | 3.35
9 | 16
Last semester, we recruited nine men to our chapter. During the Wounded Warrior Banquet we hosted as our yearly philanthropy event, we raised over $15,000. We are looking forward to having a full house for the 2019-20 year.
Northeastern
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
19 | 12
Through monumental bylaw reform, the Gamma Kappa Chapter instituted various new positions, including a student government correspondent and a health and wellness chairman. The chapter, through the SG correspondent and other means, strive to further community engagement, and now have members elected in various positions across campus.
Colony | Albuquerque, N.M. Dan Huynh ’22 Danhuynh5234@gmail.com
3.23
3.03 | 2.82
| Grand Forks, N.D. | Est. 1922 Matthew Ternus ’21 matthewrternus@gmail.com
New Mexico
14/11 | NA
9 | 8
ΓΚ
46
9 | NA
22/77 | 19
North Dakota
Last spring, the New Jersey colony initiated 14 young men, making the Delta class our largest new member class to date. Aside from this, we also raised $4,000 for the Be Positive Foundation – a charity dedicated to helping families affected by childhood cancer.
3.11 | 3.20
13 | 10
Eta Chapter at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has taken new strides to increase philanthropy among brothers. Last year, we had a great turnout at our first annual Swing and Shuck event. This event included a vast array of alumni, brothers and parents. We look forward to taking more steps to impact the community.
Colony | Ewing, N.J. Kyle Bailey ’20 baileyk9@tcnj.edu 22 | NA
BK | Athens, Ohio | Est. 1841 Ben Wegener ’20 bw554515@ohio.edu
H
New Jersey
3.33 | 3.12
Ohio
| Chapel Hill, N.C. | Est. 1852 Michael Latham ’20 mllath5b@live.unc.edu
AT
3.39 | 2.90
19 | 18
50/157 | 56
12 | 13
Last year, the Gamma Lambda Chapter saw success in many areas, including grades, intramurals, shows and service, once again setting the standard for all important aspects of Greek Life at Oklahoma State. We also eagerly await the fall completion of our new 30,000 square-foot chapter house.
Thank You, Mom O!
In April, brothers, family and friends from the University of Oklahoma came together to celebrate the retirement of Sue “Mom” Overton. She has touched the lives of some 1,000 Betas over her 22 years helping manage the day-today grind of chapter life as the Gamma Phi Chapter’s house director! Oregon State
Pittsburgh
| Corvallis, Ore. | Est. 1923 Donovan Jacob ’21 jacobdo@oregonstate.edu
13 | NA
9/20 | NA
8 | NA
We hosted a successful alumni tailgate in March that brought our brothers closer together with advisers and older Gamma Mu Betas. Several members of the class of 1963 shared about their philanthropic efforts as we enjoyed burgers and lawn games before the first home baseball game.
3.47 | 3.10
2 | 5
Our chapter began creating an alumni association with our alumni relations chair, Zach Kingsland ’22, and some alumni. We also hosted a successful Beta Bowl flag football tournament alongside our brand new philanthropy partner, Delta Humane Society. Finally, we raised over $2,000 for philanthropy across two events.
3.18 | 3.08
3 | 5
We are excited for the future as we welcome our new members of the Phi class. In addition, last spring we celebrated winning Penn’s Chapter of Promise Award for the stellar work the men of the Phi Chapter did during the 2018-19 school year.
8/37 | 16
5 | 7
The Delta Epsilon Chapter hosted a successful exhibit, “One Thousand Beta Stars,” at the Collins Memorial Library from March 30-May 10, 2019. The aim of the display was to celebrate roll number 1,000. Regional Chief Joe Buchanan, Washington State ’53, delivered a keynote address to the attendees.
3.43 | 3.32
38/111 | 41
7 | 9
In March, we partnered with Chi Omega and host a successful philanthropy, “Swishes for Wishes,” benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This was the second year that we hosted the event, and we cannot wait to build on it even more next year.
14 | NA
16/49 | 23
9 | NA
Last term, the colony designated RESTORE the official organization it raises funds for, collected nearly three years’ worth of outstanding dues and hosted its most well-attended Casino Night philanthropic event yet. This summer, we’re sending 10 members to Convention, along with several alumni, to obtain our charter.
Rockhurst
| West Lafayette, Ind. | Est. 1903 Cooper Feeney ’21 feeney10@purdue.edu 15 | 24
5 | 7
Colony | Rochester, N.Y. Nathaniel Barnes ’20 nbarnes4@u.rochester.edu
Colony | Kansas City, Mo. Griffin Fletcher ’20 fletcherg@hawks.rockhurst.edu
BM
3.21 | 2.98
22/62 | 25
Rochester
Purdue
| Philadelphia, Pa. | Est. 1880 Timothy Miller ’20 timmymiller4@gmail.com 12/58 | 19
8 | 15
20 | 21
At Quinnipiac, we focused on building our brotherhood up through various events held during the semester. Our philanthropy event, Stand Up Against Cancer, went very well and raised over $5,000. We also said goodbye to 20 graduating seniors who played huge roles in our chapter and will be greatly missed.
| Tacoma, Wash. | Est. 1962 Fran Leskovar ’21 fleskovar@pugetsound.edu
Φ
9 | 9
3.27 | 3.16
ΔΕ
Pennsylvania
3.39 | NR
4 | 6
3.34 | 3.30
13 | NA
8/41 | 21
5 | NA
During the spring 2019 semester, the Rockhurst Colony proudly raised over $300 for the Franciscan Mission Warehouse, which collects medical supplies for developing countries in need. In addition, the Rockhurst men have been adamantly involved in the philanthropy events of other school organizations to support Greek unity.
47 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
18/40 | 17
23/79 | 27
HΣ
Puget Sound
| Stockton, Calif. | Est. 2015 Matthew Oldfather ’20 moldfather248@gmail.com
HK
9 | 13
13 | 17
Eta Nu unveiled a new and improved alumni weekend this past spring. We welcomed brothers back to Pittsburgh over good food and drink, and even had the opportunity to listen to one of our alumni speak about his own accomplishments. We are eager to continue improving our alumni engagement!
Pacific
NR | NR
| Wallingford, Conn. | Est. 2018 Anthony Liuzza ’21 anthony.liuzza@quinnipiac.edu
HN
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.14 | 3.01
Quinnipiac
| Pittsburgh, Pa. | Est. 2016 Cory Stillman ’20 cory.stillman@pitt.edu
ΓM
Sacred Heart
San Jose State
Colony | Fairfield, Conn. Michael Lucia ’20 luciam28@mail.sacredheart.edu 3.34 | 3.02
13 | NA
32/73 | NA
10 | NA
This past semester, Sacred Heart successfully hosted a pop-up Beta knockout tournament on campus with the help of members from other organizations to raise money for the Thomas Mathew Miloscia Foundation.
2.71 | 2.73
CHAPTER REPORTS
48
41/123 | 38
3 | 9
The Zeta Tau Chapter had another year of growth and success. Once again, we swept the spring intramural season. Additionally, we won the Most Distinguished Chapter Award and the Philanthropy Award for our annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event, and we continue to be the largest fraternity on campus.
3.37 | 3.17
THE BETA THETA PI
8 | 5
The Zeta Omega Chapter brought in 21 new pledges last spring – the largest class in over three years. In addition to a great new pledge class, Zeta Omega also celebrated its 15th annual “Beta Toast” in early April.
3.23
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR | 3.25
45/149 | 45
6 | 6
42/139 | 40
5 | 10
Our chapter won the intramural fraternity basketball championship for the third year in a row, participated in and sent over 30 brothers to Dance Marathon, maintained a strong overall chapter GPA, and brought in excellent new pledge classes that are excited to assume leadership positions.
| Carbondale, Ill. | Est. 1999 Jacob Schafer ’19 jjschafer20@siu.edu 2.57 | 2.95
10 | 11
The men of Gamma Alpha participated in various philanthropic events throughout the spring. The chapter hosted our annual Beta Burger Bash event, where we served burgers to the community to raise money for a local humane society. The men also helped the humane society showcase the dogs!
5 | 8
ΒZ | Canton, N.Y. | Est. 1879 Fred Short ’20 fhshor16@stlawu.edu
3.20 | 3.12
9 | 6
28/77 | 27
7 | 5
Beta Zeta had a wonderful and exciting semester up in the North Country. We teamed up with the St. Lawrence Outing Club to lead a “Learn to Ski” day, worked with World of Change to raise over $1,000 for the Ogdensburg Boys and Girls Club, and helped plant trees with the Environmental Action Organization for Earth Week!
Stevens
| Vermillion, S.D. | Est. 1912 Cohl Turnquist ’20 cohl.turnquist@coyotes.usd.edu 27/55 | 27
4/7 | 6
St. Lawrence
| Hoboken, N.J. | Est. 1879 Steve Papis ’20 spapis@stevens.edu
ΓΑ
18 | 17
6 | 9
We are preparing to celebrate our 20th year as a chapter and our university’s 150th anniversary. We invite all alumni to come celebrate alongside us on homecoming day! We hope everyone can join us.
South Dakota
3.09 | 2.96
6 | 7
ZO
| Columbia, S.C. | Est. 1858 Jacob McLeland ’20 jacob.mcleland@gmail.com 12 | 14
30/111 | 46
Southern Illinois
Y
3.14 | NR
9 | 10
Following changes to university and Beta Theta Pi policies, operations at Southern California have been paused as the General Fraternity works with local undergraduate and alumni leaders to identify appropriate next steps for the Gamma Tau Chapter and at USC.
South Carolina
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
17 | 22
Last spring, we celebrated 10 years since our recolonization with a very successful alumni and philanthropy banquet to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. Additionally, we elected two members to the IFC executive board, including the president, and won the Greek Intramural Football League.
| San Diego, Calif. | Est. 2007 Douglas Horn ’20 douglashorn@sandiego.edu 28/88 | 30
8 | 8
| Dallas, Texas | Est. 1951 Ian MacDonald ’20 imacdonald@smu.edu
ΖΩ
16 | 26
16/48 | 25
ΓΩ
San Diego
3.40 | 3.06
ΓΤ | Los Angeles, Calif. | Est. 1947 Dir. Chapter Services Austin Marple austin.marple@beta.org
SMU
| Saint Louis, Mo. | Est. 2003 Caleb Wiseman ’20 wisemancm@slu.edu ZT
10 | 11
10 | 13
Last semester, the Zeta Eta Chapter is excited to have participated in Kappa Delta’s Shamrock Showcase and Alpha Xi Delta’s AmaXIng Challenge, while working on a philanthropy of our own. We plan on helping animal shelters across the Bay Area with our efforts through “Beta Theta Paws.”
Saint Louis
3.48 | 3.19
Southern California
| San Jose, Calif. | Est. 1995 Andy Ho ’20 andyho97@gmail.com
ΖΗ
Σ
3.38 | 3.38
19 | 17
19/60 | 13
7 | 8
The Sigma Chapter successfully initiated 19 exceptional young men, our second largest class in recent history. We also raised over $1,000 to support a member of our Greek community who is battling brain cancer. Additionally, we won both our Greek intramural hockey and softball leagues.
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
p38-51_ChapterReports_smr19.indd 48
5/28/19 11:57 AM
Inaugural Champs
Upsilon Betas came out on top at the University of South Carolina’s inaugural Greek Bowl fall football tournament, raising an extra $1,000 for their philanthropy on top of the more than $70,000 total raised during the event benefiting Dance Marathon and a local children’s hospital! TCU
Texas A&M
| Fort Worth, Texas | Est. 2014 Ryal Reddick ’21 r.reddick@tcu.edu 13 | 17
48/154 | 42
9 | 8
The Eta Eta Chapter was hard at work this past semester successfully raising over $1,200 during our spring philanthropy, along with focusing on our relationships with alumni through video spotlights and the development of a career mentoring platform to connect undergraduates and alumni in fields of interest.
3.12 | 3.03
5 | 5
Last semester, the men of the Delta Kappa Chapter planned and coordinated our philanthropy with the Sexual Assault Center of East Tennessee, helping raise money and awareness for their cause. Our brothers also attended several sorority and fraternity events on campus to assist other philanthropic causes.
2.68 | 2.78
9 | 11
The Beta Omicron Chapter proudly initiated 31 new men this past academic year, attained the second highest GPA among IFC fraternities, and successfully hosted our third annual philanthropic fundraiser, Casino Night, in April benefiting a local Austin charity called Comfort Crew for Military Kids.
p38-51_ChapterReports_smr19.indd 49
14/30 | 20
6 | 7
Delta Rho Chapter had a semester of rebuilding as we turned inwards to focus on restructuring our chapter so that we may recruit as many men of principle as we can. We look forward to our revival in the fall.
| Kirksville, Mo. | Est. 1997 Nick Thiele ’20 nat4442@truman.edu
3.20 | 3.07
61/116 | 66
7 | 7
Delta Mu continued its success over the past year. Our grade report reflected that we are the number three fraternity in grades on campus. We also took our largest pledge class since refounding in 2015. In addition, we elected a Beta as student body president for the second year in a row: David Rivero, Texas Tech ’20.
19 | 19
17/77 | 26
5 | 5
Last semester, we implemented a new scholarship program where each new member is assigned an active brother to help mentor them through the transition to college. These mentors will remain with them throughout their college careers and aid them in anything from study habits to class selection and four-year plans.
49
UC Irvine
| Lubbock, Texas | Est. 1970 Blake Justice ’20 blake.justice@ttu.edu 20 | 13
7 | 8
ZΞ
| Lake Forest, Calif. | Est. 1975 Luis Andrade ’20 laandrad@uci.edu
ΔM
2.94 | 2.79
8/23 | 12
Truman State
Texas Tech
| Austin, Texas | Est. 1866 Colin Dunning ’20 cdd2424@utexas.edu 37/95 | 53
19 | 22
8 | 5
Last fall, Theta Zeta held its annual haunted house philanthropy event with great success, donating a significant amount of non-perishable food to charity. The chapter has enjoyed a year of both growth and comfort due to the recruitment of a sizeable fall pledge class and the completion of chapter house renovations.
| Arlington, Texas | Est. 1971 Brandon Hoogeveen ’21 bhoog999@gmail.com
BO
13 | 16
3.28 | NR
ΔP
Texas
3.45 | 3.27
7 | 7
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
18/53 | 23
42/160 | 49
ΘΖ
Texas at Arlington
| Knoxville, Tenn. | Est. 1967 Luke Coscia ’20 lcoscia@vols.utk.edu ΔΚ
14 | 18
16 | 16
This past semester we hosted many successful events. March, in particular, was a busy month for us as DBM Festival, our philanthropy raising money for David’s Legacy Foundation, was a success. We had a great time getting to reconnect with older Epsilon Etas at our alumni golf tournament.
Tennessee
3.13 | 3.04
| Toronto, Ont. | Est. 1906 Nick Ford ’21 robert.ford@mail.utoronto.ca
EH
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.57 | 3.06
Toronto
| College Station, Texas | Est. 1987 Trey Moskal ’20 treymoskal1997@tamu.edu
HH
ΔΣ
NR | 3.05
9 | 13
12/34 | 27
4 | 5
Last year, the chapter hosted our first-ever Beta Lei philanthropy week to raise money for the nonprofit organization Thorn. Although our fall rush wasn’t so great, we came back strong and successfully recruited nine new members during winter and spring quarters.
5/28/19 11:57 AM
UC San Diego
Villanova
| La Jolla, Calif. | Est. 1995 Theodore Schiff ’20 theozirs@gmail.com 3.28 | 3.18
14 | 16
32/69 | 27
9 | 7
We achieved the top GPA out of all fraternities on campus last fall. Also, in November we had our first-ever brotherhood retreat in Anza Borrego. In May, we hosted an extremely successful philanthropy event benefiting the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and held our second annual Beta Toast.
3.35 | 3.34
CHAPTER REPORTS
7 | 7
Last term, Gamma Nu initiated 31 new brothers and achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.3, with 10 brothers achieving a 4.0 and 31 receiving Dean’s List honors. In the fall, our intramural basketball team won the IFC league, led by brothers Nicholas Scalise, Tyler Genetti and Scott Newby.
46/91 | 22
5 | 5
3.50 | 3.38
10 | 7
22/87 | 24
7 | 7
The Omicron Chapter had an incredibly successful spring semester, including the addition of the new outreach chairman cabinet position and a great new class of 22 men. Everyone enjoyed cheering on UVA basketball during March Madness, and our Parents Formal in April was a huge hit! Go Hoos!
THE BETA THETA PI
40/103 | 41
8 | 9
At the University of Utah, we recruited a 17man pledge class and achieved a 100 percent retention rate by initiating all 17. We are also the proud recipients of the Deans Award of Excellence. Finally, last semester Gamma Beta raised $11,500 for the Rape Recovery Center of Utah.
3.23
All-Chapter GPA Campus AMA: 3.08
14
Leadership Program Graduates 3-Year Average: 14
7
Active Advisors 3-Year Average: 8
26/74
New Men Pledged / Chapter Size 3-Year Average: 29
NR: Campus or chapter did not report as of 5/20/19 NA: Chapter re/colonized within last three years
Each chapter’s individual performance is located in its chapter report and matches this key’s color coding.
23/93 | 44
6 | 7
The Alpha Phi Chapter placed a great focus on community service this past semester. Over 50 brothers participated in The Big Event and many gave their time to smaller service organizations like Micah’s Backpack. Additionally, we hosted a very successful alumni weekend and continued to compete for intramural championships.
20/66 | 20
10 | 8
To promote mental health, we have created a Wellness Team that encourages discussions between brothers on issues where our members are struggling. We shifted philanthropic efforts to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, as well. We hope to be first on campus for overall GPA based on spring academic performance.
5 | 7
| Saint Louis, Mo. | Est. 1869 Aneesh Sood ’21 aneeshsood99@gmail.com
AI
3.63 | 3.48
9 | 8
36/93 | 29
5 | 7
The Alpha Iota Chapter had a strong recruitment cycle and earned one of the highest fraternity GPAs on campus during the spring term. We also put on a successful philanthropy event with a community school and look forward to continued success next semester.
Washington State
| Crawfordsville, Ind. | Est. 1846 Patrick Kelly ’21 pakelly21@wabash.edu 14 | 15
12/42 | 13
Washington in St. Louis
ΓΘ | Pullman, Wash. | Est. 1920 George Bean ’20 george.bean@wsu.edu
T
3.36 | 3.15
9 | 9
Our chapter welcomed back three brothers from studying abroad in the Netherlands, Ireland and Ecuador. We participated in philanthropy events including Relay for Life and a phone-a-thon benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters, sorted books to help establish libraries in Gambia, and helped with a finals week ice cream social.
Wabash
2018-19 All-Beta Chapter
performanceaverage
3.21 | 3.07
| Blacksburg, Va. | Est. 1877 Brian Fierstein ’21 bfier99@vt.edu
8 | 12
8 | 8
Γ | Washington, Pa. | Est. 1842 Aaron Viggiano ’20 viggianoam@jay.washjeff.edu
AΦ
3.25 | 3.11
29/111 | 31
Washington and Jefferson
Virginia Tech
| Salt Lake City, Utah | Est. 1913 Nathan Paul ’20 nathan.s.paul@gmail.com
ΓB
15 | 20
This past quarter, we were fortunate enough to raise over $50,000 for the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center in Seattle. Teaming up with the Strong4Sam Foundation, and with the help of our hundreds of donors, we were able to create the largest fundraiser in Beta Omega history.
| Charlottesville, Va. | Est. 1855 Campbell Shelhoss ’20 wcs5eu@virginia.edu
Utah
12 | 26
3.50 | 3.29
O
50
3.29 | NR
BΩ
Virginia
| Los Angeles, Calif. | Est. 1926 Matthew Purdy ’21 matthewpurdy27@yahoo.com 40/93 | 35
9 | 13
Last semester was a huge success for our chapter. We initiated a new class of 16 members, which makes our chapter the largest it has ever been. Our spring philanthropy event, Ducky Races, was a huge success and raised a tremendous amount of money for our charity, Miracle 4 Molly.
ΓΝ
12 | 18
| Seattle, Wash. | Est. 1901 George Otis ’21 99georgeo@gmail.com
ΖΕ
UCLA
NR | 3.34
Washington
| Villanova, Pa. | Est. 1995 Thomas Nevin ’21 tnevin@villanova.edu
ΖΓ
2.96 | 2.94
11 | 13
29/97 | 39
11 | 11
The Gamma Theta Chapter is looking good as our centennial approaches. Our chapter’s membership will surpass 100 members by next fall after we initiate 100% of our spring pledge class. While increasing membership size, we have also increased our GPA to the second best on campus. Go Cougs!
Welcome Eta Tau
It was quite a night in Worcester, Massachusetts, when the WPI colony officially became the Eta Tau Chapter! At a March 16 ceremony presided over by General Treasurer Ben Swartz, Connecticut ’05, Eta Tau entered the fold with 36 men, a stellar 3.64 GPA and a promising future at WPI. Westminster
Willamette
| Fulton, Mo. | Est. 1868 Jacob Dehesa ’20 jdehesa.20@westminster-mo.edu 13 | 18
12/31 | 16
6 | 7
We hosted a successful philanthropy week and raised over $800 for CHAD’s Coalition, which promotes awareness for suicide prevention. This cause has become near and dear to our chapter since a brother’s close friend committed suicide. This is how we honor him every year.
3.28 | 3.15
4 | 7
The chapter hosted a successful philanthropy event in May and raised $450 for Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) for cancer research. Leo Polk ’22, and Brit Stocks ’20, two members of the Gamma Zeta Chapter, collected clothes donations from campus to put together a yard sale. All of the money made was donated to PMC.
3.35 | 3.31
7 | 6
Operations at Wichita State have been restricted due to concerns about risk management and safety in its pledge program. At this time, the chapter’s limitations are not expected to ease until May 2020. The General Fraternity continues to work toward a long-term solution for the chapter with the involvement of local alumni and advisors.
5/30 | 19
4 | 4
Our chapter GPA this past semester increased compared to the fall term and now exceeds the all-campus average. We also revived our philanthropy and raised over $1,000 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This effort required full chapter support and generated positive feedback on campus.
ΑΓ | Springfield, Ohio | Est. 1867 Nick Weissman ’21 weissmann@wittenberg.edu
3.22 | 2.71
55/122 | 32
6 | 6
We hosted our first Fraternal Fifties/Twenty-Fives in years and had a tremendous turnout. Close to 100 alumni came to see the chapter house and receive their pins and awards. It was a great chance for the active and alumni brothers to get together and exchange stories.
12 | 11
5/38 | 14
7 | 7
The Alpha Gamma Chapter has been doing very well lately. We have been successful in service and philanthropy on campus, organizing numerous successful fundraisers for local charities. We have also begun the exciting task of fundraising and planning for a new chapter house.
WPI
| Madison, Wis. | Est. 1873 John Boosalis ’20 jboosalis@wisc.edu
11 | 13
6 | 7
Wittenberg
| Worcester, Mass. | Est. 2019 Daniel Duff ’20 dfduff@wpi.edu
AΠ
3.27 | 3.26
14/34 | 15
51
Wisconsin
| Wichita, Kan. | Est. 1959 Dir. Chapter Services Austin Marple austin.marple@beta.org 4/37 | 27
2 | 7
19 | 18
Our chapter received awards for Best GPA, Excellence in Brotherhood, and thirdstraight Fraternity Chapter of the Year. Individual members took home the Founder’s Award and Fraternity Member of the Year. We raised over $1,000 for the Christine Ann Center for Domestic Abuse.
| Williamsburg, Va. | Est. 1876 Ross Fladeland ’20 rafladeland@email.wm.edu
ΔΓ
22 | 33
2.88 | 2.86
ZY
Wichita State
NR | 2.88
13 | 12
HΤ
3.58 | NR
20 | 19
10/36 | 14
8 | 6
Between our “Beta Theta Pies” pizza delivery fundraiser and our “Beta Theta Fries” deepfried Oreo philanthropy events, our chapter was able to raise over $2,000 for the African Community Education Program (ACE) in Worcester – the highest academic donation they received all year.
SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
19/26 | 12
7/29 | 12
William & Mary
| Walla Walla, Wash. | Est. 1916 Martin Alvarez-Kuglen 21 alvaremg@whitman.edu ΓΖ
8 | 6
12 | 13
Last semester, we set up an annual philanthropy with the organization WE Care. We also had three members break school records in swimming. Finally, we focused on building unity campus-wide by hosting a self-love event where we gave out donuts for notes people posted on our bulletin board saying something that they love about themselves.
Whitman
3.08 | 3.37
ZZ | Oshkosh, Wis. | Est. 1995 Alexander Lomibao ’20 lomiba53@uwosh.edu
ΓΣ
CHAPTER REPORTS
3.07 | 2.99
Wisconsin-Oshkosh
| Salem, Ore. | Est. 1947 Brian Peck bppeck@willamette.edu
ΑΔ
chapterineternal loving memory Forever Remembered Notices of Beta brothers and Beta Sweethearts who passed were reported to the Administrative Office between February 5, 2019 and May 1, 2019. CHAPTER ETERNAL
52
Report a Beta’s Death Please contact Receptionist Phyllis Bowie at 800.800. BETA or phyllis.bowie@ beta.org to report a death.
THE BETA THETA PI
Donate to the Archives Ask loved ones to donate your Beta badge and important Beta artifacts to the Fraternity’s archives and museum in Oxford. Memorial Gifts The Fraternity is often asked how to memorialize a dearly departed Beta. Memorial gifts can be made at beta.org/gift or with Director of Development Laura Lednik at 800.800. BETA. In lieu of flowers, consider naming the Beta Leadership Fund in your own obituary.
Flags indicate Betas who served in the United States or Canadian armed forces.
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CHAPTER ETERNAL
53 SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG
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Where there’s a will, there’s a way. The Beta Foundation’s new partnership with FreeWill provides all Betas and friends with free access to an online platform where you can create a will in less than 20 minutes and support the people and causes you care about most. Though not a requirement, a gift to Beta Theta Pi in your will has a big impact on the Fraternity’s future.
G E T STA RT E D AT F R E E W I L L .CO M / B E TA
“
bridge builder society donor spotlight | Justin Miller, Minnesota ’00
“That makes Beta a great investment – one in the leaders of tomorrow for our country and community.”
THE BETA THETA PI | SUMMER 2019 | BETA.ORG/BBS Justin Miller, Minnesota ’00, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance. Today, he is a Chartered Financial Analyst with nearly 20 years of experience in investment management, first with Wells Fargo and now with Mairs and Power. In addition to his family’s ongoing support of the Beta Foundation, he has previously volunteered for his Beta Pi Chapter as a member of the house corporation. He currently lives in Hopkins, Minnesota, with his wife, Jocelyn, and children.
It’s hard to believe nearly 20 years have passed since I started giving to Beta Theta Pi. Now an investment manager by trade, I see that first gift I made while still an undergraduate as an investment that has reaped returns far beyond what I ever thought possible. So many of my college memories are tied to the Beta Pi Chapter: the friends I made, the leadership skills I acquired, and the camaraderie I built on the intramural fields, during initiation trips to Oxford or while attending a General Convention. After two decades, my brothers and I have gone in different directions, but we remain
close through regular gatherings, golf and ski trips, and the heartbreak we continue to share when our beloved Minnesota sports teams suffer yet another loss. Simply put, our Beta brotherhood has remained an important source of strength and support throughout the ups and downs that life has thrown our way. The important role Beta continues to play in developing younger people into future leaders is evident through my ongoing connection to today’s Beta Pi undergraduates. I’m routinely impressed with the character and maturity of these men. When they talk about their fraternity experience, particularly the leadership development they receive at Foundation-spon-
sored programs like the Wooden Institute, I continue to be motivated to support the great work being done. No matter your age or life situation, you need to do some basic estate planning. Having kids of our own was the spark my wife, Jocelyn, and I needed to more seriously consider the legacy we want to leave. For us, it is important that the causes we support after we’re gone provide long-term benefits to the community through education, leadership and career development. That makes Beta a great investment – one in the leaders of tomorrow for our country and community.
R I C H A R D
G . LU G A R 1932 - 2019
“Dick Lugar was not just the finest public servant I will ever know, he was the finest person. He embodied all we can hope for in our leaders: brilliance of mind, purity of motive, stainless in character, tireless in the pursuit of duty … His voice is now silent, but he is still with us.” – Mitch Daniels, Fiji, Purdue University President Former Indiana Governor
devel oping men of principle for a principled life
For 20 years, the Men of Principle initiative and Beta Leadership Fund earned the Lugar seal of approval. Carry on his legacy at beta.org/gift.
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