to hear from the Beta Foundation’s chief officer, Phil Fernandez, Miami ’06.
FOUNDATION PURPOSE
To advance the educational mission and goals of Beta Theta Pi toward the vision of the Fraternity.
FOUNDATION RESPONSIBILITIES
Cultivate lifelong friendships; solicit Betas and friends; provide gift stewardship; fund leadership and educational grants; empower Foundation volunteers; oversee investment strategies; recognize Betas, parents and Friends of Beta.
Dear Brothers and Friends,
Reflecting on my own Beta journey, I fondly remember 1969, when I accepted my bid. We dined at the Beta house every night except Sundays, and at least once a week we learned and sang Beta songs. It wasn’t always easy to perfect the harmonies, but through the process we learned more than just the music — we built bonds that have lasted a lifetime.
When the evening would end, our new member class would walk back to the dorms, often singing “Marching Along” at the top of our lungs, full of pride and unity. It’s the same pride I feel 55 years later as I think about our work as a Foundation and its impact on Beta’s future. Those evenings are a reminder of the power of brotherhood, and they still inspire me today as we march into the future, united in our commitment to Beta Theta Pi.
As we reflect on this past year, I am filled with immense gratitude for the generous and steadfast support of our Beta family. Your philanthropy has led us to new heights, including achieving one of our largest grants in history — an accomplishment that will have a lasting impact on the future of our beloved Fraternity. These milestones, as detailed within this report, are not only shaping the lives of our brothers today but are also paving the way for the future.
Speaking of our future, at the recent 185th General Convention we took an even greater step forward with the launch of the Build the Bridge Campaign.
As you’ll read on page 23, this is more than just a campaign. It’s a call for all of us to unite in building a stronger and more affordable Beta experience for generations to come.
On behalf of the entire Foundation Board, thank you again for your incredible support! As you turn the pages, I encourage you to take a moment for your own reflection and appreciate the profound impact you’ve made as a donor. Together, we are advancing the mission, developing young men and ultimately changing the world. I couldn’t be more excited for what lies ahead.
Yours in kai ,
Rick Banks, Cornell ’72 Foundation Chairman
Cover Photo: Betas marching along at the 185th General Convention in Oxford, Ohio.
BY THE NUMBERS
FOUNDATION STAFF
Phil Fernandez, Miami ’06; Chief Foundation Officer
Travis Robinson; Dir. of Annual Giving
Laura Lednik; Dir. of Development
Aaron Selby, Wabash ’06; Dir. of Advancement
Jeff Newton, Miami ’77; Dir. of Advancement
Zane Brown-Carlson, Knox ’16; Dir. of Advancement
Jackson Chambers, Utah ’12; Dir. of Advancement
$5,018,577
Total Contributions to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation in FY24
$ 4,941,205 Total Dollars Granted SUPPORTING FRATERNITY INITIATIVES INCLUDING . . . FY24 FY23
Leadership Programs
Student Scholarships
$1,141,355 $939,234
$258,017 $371,107
DEA Grants (Chapter Housing Grants) $3,232,403 $2,272,104
Beta Brotherhood Assessment
Son of the Stars Member Orientation
Online Officer and Volunteer Training
Membership Growth
Health & Safety/Inclusive Brotherhood
$211,229 $178,646
$4,097 $27,270
$59,636 $55,269
$31,797 $26,315
$2,671 $24,385
$4,941,205 $3,894,330
4,259 Beta Leadership Fund donors in FY24
$306 average BLF gift
FOUNDATION LEADERSHIP
FOUNDATION BOARD
Foundation Chairman Rick Banks, Cornell ’72
Vice Chairman
Stavan Bhatt, Louisville ’98
Treasurer
Randy Groves, Kansas State ’78
Secretary Tom Reeves, Eastern Kentucky ’99
$1,302,732 RAISED
$1.25 million goal in FY24
89 ¢* of every dollar spent goes directly to Beta programs and services**
*10–year average **Nonprofit benchmark is 65¢
Mike Bickford, Oklahoma ’80
Art Carmichael, Oregon ’62
Karl Chiao, Texas A&M ’90
Peter Darrow, Miami (Fla.) ’09
Jeff Flanagan, Rhode Island ’93
Mike Gibbons, Kenyon ’74
Scott Grotjan, South Dakota ’92
Zac Haines, Miami ’05
Kent Mire, TCU ’07
Marty Obst, Southern Illinois ’03
Fred Pierce IV, San Diego State ’84
Tom Olver, Central Michigan ’98
Rick Sabol, Ohio ’77
John Torget, Cornell ’93
Bruce Wenger, Lawrence ’89
COLLEGIATE COMMISSIONERS
C.J. Fovozzo, John Carroll ’23
Phillip Miavelstück, George Mason ’25
Virgina Tech Betas gather in front the Beta Campanile in Oxford, Ohio.
HAPPIER HE WHO JOINS HIS BROTHERS’
SINGING A BETA LAY!
1 DAY. 8 HOURS. 39 MINUTES.
The Giving Day Challenge (GDC), now in its fifth year, is a friendly fundraising competition between chapters. It is an opportunity for brothers and friends to celebrate Beta Theta Pi’s impact on its members and bolster pride in our Great and Good Fraternity through an unrestricted gift to the Beta Leadership Fund.
KEN BRYAN MIT ’88 GDC Ambassador
“Being a Giving Day Challenge Ambassador, this is a chance for me to help give back to Beta for all the friendships, growth and support I have received these last 40 years. With a little preparation, it doesn’t take much time and can make a big difference on Giving Day. I encourage Betas to step up and rally their chapters in the spirit of friendly competition!”
AMBASSADOR LEADERS | DONORS
Ken Bryan, MIT ’88 61 Bob Mackenzie, Bethany ’77 52
Robert Beall, Oklahoma ’80 32
AMBASSADOR LEADERS | DOLLARS
Ken Bryan, MIT ’88 $14,481
Bob Mackenzie, Bethany ’77 $7,726
Rick Sabol, Ohio ’77 $6,225
For information on becoming an ambassador, please visit beta.org/ambassadors.
GIVING DAY CHALLENGE
raised
$518,950 for the BLF in 2024
$136,720 raised by 110 ambassadors
2,789 GDC donors
BETA THETA PI(E) DAY Social media followers voted to decide which Administrative Office staffers would receive a pie to the face.
Top: Anne Emmerth, Chi Omega Chief Strategy Officer
Left: Jeff Rundle, Kansas State ’03 Chief Executive Officer
WITH FEWER
THANKS TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED!
For more information and a complete list of donors, visit beta.org/givingdaychallenge.
PI(E) DAY
Scan the QR code or visit beta.org/ pie-day to view the video.
BETA THETA PI GIVING DAY CHALLENGE
ALONG MARCHING
ANNUAL SUPPORTERS
The following list contains all alumni, parent and Friend of Beta donors (grouped alphabetically by school) who made gifts to the Beta Foundation between June 1, 2023 and May 31, 2024.
Lifetime giving societies, total years giving and Auto-Kai Club members are highlighted using various symbols and colors defined in the legend.
All collegiate donors can be found at beta.org/dragons.
Tom Lipton, Western Reserve ’63, and Kole Karwoski, San Diego ’25, at the 185th General Convention.
DONOR LEGEND
JUNE 1, 2023– MAY 31, 2024
Auto-Kai donors shown in BLUE
LIFETIME GIVING SOCIETIES
Alyson Gilson
Isla Gilson
Judd Gilson
Beatrice Graham
David Graham
Doig Grant
Emily Gray
April Greer
Donald Greer
Patricia Greer
Tina Greer
Dominic Greene%
Jen Grossman Leopard
Devin Hall
Paige Harles
Taylor Harris
Paige Hatton
Logan Hayes
Linda Hawley
Tavianna Hickman
Steve Hilbert
Claire Holba
Greg Hollen
Shane Holley
Jeff Holzbeierlein
Drew Hopson
Pete Hoof
Amy Huggins
Lynn Huynh%
Timon Jandora
Dave and Mary Jo Daniels
Alex Johnston
Nicki Joiner
Jaylyn Jones
Seth Jones
Cindy Kane
John Keely
Kristen Kardas
Ben Kevin
Allison Kilfoy
Dana King
David Konicov
Janice Kovac
Mary Kuckelman
Michael Kutchey
Barrett Lane
Nathan Laudan
Anton Ledesma
Kara Ledesma
Lulu Lednik%
Ann Leech-Bates
Nicole Lepperd
Tom Lepperd
Billy Lesnak
Elana Levy
Katie Lockhart
Laurie Lockhart
Mark Lockhart
BETA CHAIR
Rebecca Lockhart
Sarah Lockhart
William Losiewicz
Morgan MacDonald
Anna Madding
Sam Madding
Kim Madrid
Amara Maier
Brenda Maier
Amy Malek
Maria Mandel
William Magnus
Larissa Marple
Gerald Marple
Danielle Mason
Sally Mayer-Swift
Warren Mattox
Kaylee McAllister-Knutson
Bruce McClain
Abby McCollom
Lisa McCullough
Dan McGurn
Cecilia McHale
Penelope McHale
Susan McHale
Denise McNaughton
Sue McPhee
Ena Meyers
Matt Mims
Javon Miller
Lorie Miller
Tim Moffitt
Daniel Moore
Kate Morales
Marc Mores
Kristin Morgan
Roger Moses
Alison Myers
Megan Nachtwey
Lara Nester
Karl Neuman
Abigail Norman
Karlee Nuttleman
James O’Connell
Stuti Obryan
Emily Olson
Glenn O’Nan
Kristie O’Nan
Nick O’Neal
Ben Ostroff
Jane Pallokat
Akul Pappajohn
Christina Parle
Desiree Paulhamus Jackson
Lindsay Pavel
McKenzie Pendry
Jane Pfaff
Les Pierce
Candice Powell
Mikah Pransky
Ronda Purdin
Maggie Rauschuber
Darius Redmond
Dakota Reece
Samantha Reineke
Michael and Elaine Reolfi
Shannon Rickett
James Roach
Melissa Rocco
Kristen Robinson
Stephanie Rodriguez
Todd Rotgers
Caitlin Rulli
Erica Rundle
Gabriel Rundle
Carrie Rush
Garrett Salger
Jackson Salger
Katie Sampalis
Michael Sampson
Jess Schauble
Kelly Schiess
Diane Schindler
Steve Schmitt
Marlene Schneider
Abigail Seeber
Lisa Segura
Jamie Selby
Karen Selby
Stephen Selby
Beau Seuntjens
Katie Seuntjens
Mae Seuntjens
Morgan Sexton
Veronica Seymour
Lily Shepherd
Kathryn Shipp
Stu and Linda Shoaff
Salky Simpkins
Nywana Sizemore
CJ Smith
Tom and Kim Snider
Jill Socorro
Christy Spaulding
Elizabeth Spears
Kathryn Spears
Mindy Spears
Stu Spears
Ash Spoto
Derek Standarowski
Jessica Stevens
Sharon Stills
Pamela Strang
Lisa Sunderhaus
Sondra Swartz
Reymundo Tavares
Andrew Thatcher
Evan Thompson
Keri Thurner
Kristin Torrey
Paige Townley
Tom Townley
Roni Townley
Cassidy Troup
Deborah Vance
Lisa Vance
Cristina Vega
Tracy Vela
Sean Wagner
Tyler Wash
Cannen Warren
Taylor Warren
Nickala Wasson
Connie Wavrunek
Julie Wavrunek
Erin Wendover
Rachel Westra%
Ava White
Gail Whitelaw
Christian Wiggins
Tim Wilkinson
Rorik Williams
Ayana Wilson
Mike and Rohini Winters
Phil Wisseman
Suzy Wittlich
Elizabeth Wojcik
Emily Wolfzorn
Salamilid Wontfit
Kyle Yarawsky
Erin Young
Reagan Zimmerman
Valerie Zhuravel
Thea Zunick
Nan Zupancic
Elizabeth Zuppann
HONORARY PARENT CHAIRS
Bill Gaskill, Utah ’92, son Sam Gaskill, Utah ’24, Savannah Gaskill (daughter) and Jennifer Gaskill (mom).
Lauren Stills, Alpha Phi
STRONG in THE MIGHT of OUR BOND FRATERNAL, FRIEND of THE RIGHT and THE FOE of THE WRONG!
25TH ANNIVERSARY
The John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle allows Betas to interact with brothers from across North America. There, participants explore the Ritual, engage in leadership activities, learn about Beta’s history and reflect on its heritage. Most importantly, they build connections with fellow brothers in the Fraternity’s birthplace of Oxford, Ohio. 2024 is a special milestone year for the Wooden Institute as we celebrate 25 years of the program!
25TH ANNIVERSARY
JUSTIN FOSTER
West Chester ’11
“The experience at the Wooden Institute came to me at an interesting time in my Beta Journey. It reinvigorated me and re-lit my purpose toward the organization.
The magic of ‘Wooden’ lies in its uniqueness, fueled by selfless facilitators and engaged students. It fosters an environment of trust, rooted in shared experiences. The time and money invested in this program yield profound returns, shaping men into better leaders, fathers, professionals and citizens.
‘Wooden’ addresses an aspect that other Beta programs on officer training and chapter operations do not. This experience tangibly brings our mission to life and fosters the development of principles for a principled life.”
5,832 WOODEN GRADUATES over 25 years
Scan the QR code or visit beta.org/wooden25 to celebrate 25 years of the awardwinning Wooden Institute.
BETA BROTHERHOOD ASSESSMENT
In 2023’s assessment, Beta saw a significant increase in member satisfaction compared to the year prior. Looking specifically at the net promoter score, Beta is one of only four fraternities to achieve a score above 50. This is the largest yearto-year increase and the highest net promoter scores Beta Theta Pi has seen since the assessment began in 2018.
This means our members are satisfied with their membership experience more than ever. Beta is in the top quartile for member satisfaction, outpacing 8 of 11 peer fraternities measured.
Average grant per chapter of $35,548 up from $28,016 in 2023 – a 27% increase.
JOHN REILY KNOX MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Arman Kian, Johns Hopkins ’26
SAMUEL TAYLOR MARSHALL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Zane David Brown-Carlson, Knox ’16
DAVID LINTON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Yashas Mallikarjun, Johns Hopkins ’26
JAMES GEORGE SMITH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
David C. Buskirk, Oklahoma State ’24
Men of Principle Scholarships totaled $71,154 to 118 collegians
BETA VOLUNTEER ASSESSMENT
The Beta Volunteer Assessment (BVA) aims to enhance the Beta advising experience and establish benchmarks for volunteer engagement . Its findings offer valuable insights into advisor training, relationships with chapter officers and staff, and overall satisfaction and growth.
These results inform the development of educational programs and resources, fostering knowledge, skills and coaching that promote a safe and caring brotherhood rooted in Beta’s core values and strategic priorities.
SON OF THE STARS
The Son of the Stars (SOTS) New Member Orientation Program has significantly expanded since its launch in 2018, successfully welcoming new members into Beta Theta Pi. Recent data shows that over 96% of participants formed meaningful relationships within their new member classes. For fall 2024, 87 chapters will implement SOTS — a 23-chapter increase from last year and the highest participation since its inception.
2023-24 POST INITIATION SURVEY RESULTS
RELATIONSHIPS: 96.8% felt they built meaningful connections with brothers.
APPRECIATION: 97.8% felt valued for who they are.
FUN: 96.2% described their experience as enjoyable.
FULFILLMENT: 96.2% found their experience fulfilling.
PERSONAL GROWTH: 92.5% felt they grew personally.
SAFETY: 97.3% felt safe and comfortable in all activities.
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT: 96.8% were encouraged to participate in other campus activities.
FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIPS
Each of the Founders Memorial Scholarship recipients received $2,500, endowed by an estate gift from Robert C. Lafferty, Ohio Wesleyan 1928. The full list of Beta scholarship winners is available at beta.org/scholarships .
ARMAN KIAN, JOHNS HOPKINS ’26:
CHARLES HENRY HARDIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Brody W. Elliott, Baylor ’23
JOHN HOLT DUNCAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Berk C. Balkir, Cornell ’25
MICHAEL CLARKSON RYAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Keith V. Allen, Nebraska at Omaha ’25
THOMAS BOSTON GORDON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Ali Motamedi, George Mason ’26
“When I went to my first Convention as my chapter’s VP of Recruitment, it was incredible to witness nearly a thousand Betas in unison singing “Marching Along.” It was an eye-opening moment for me to see brothers from various chapters connected by one song. This experience served as a reminder that, regardless of challenges or disagreements, we are all Betas bonded by a lifelong commitment.”
FOLLOWING PATHS OLD WOOGLIN BLAZED FOR US
JOHN REILY KNOX CLUB
The John Reily Knox Club represents the pinnacle of philanthropic leadership and a special group of donors within Beta Theta Pi. The Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the 352 donors who joined the JRK Club in 2023-2024, with 196 of them securing their membership through gifts to the Beta Leadership Fund. By contributing $1,839 or more annually — or $500 or more for Betas within 10 years of graduation — these leaders account for over half of the total raised for the BLF, fueling the growth and success of the Fraternity’s leadership programs and other strategic initiatives like the Beta Brotherhood Assessment. Their collective generosity strengthens Beta’s mission, empowering young men to lead with integrity and ensuring a lasting legacy of brotherhood and principled living.
$735,234
Raised for the BLF by JRK members
14.6% GROWTH in JRK Club membership via the BLF compared to the previous year
Beta brothers marching the path from the Beta Campanile toward Harrison Hall in Oxford, Ohio.
Total JRK Club membership includes gifts to all funds.
JRK Club gifts benefiting the BLF is now at an all-time high.
JRK Club Membership Breakdown
SONS of the DRAGON CLUB
LANDON ROBINSON, Arkansas ’25
Why are you and your chapter brothers inspired to support the Beta Leadership Fund?
One of Beta Theta Pi’s core values is mutual assistance. There’s no better way to provide that assistance than by supporting an organization that has poured so much time and devotion into its members to further their leadership talents.
PHILLIP MIAVELSTÜCK, George Mason ’25
How has the Beta Leadership Fund impacted your members this last year? How do you and your chapter talk about giving with your members?
The Beta Leadership Fund has supported our chapter by assisting members with trips to Wooden, Keystone and Convention. One member, Jacob Reed ’27, attended the Wooden Institute in summer 2024 and formed lasting friendships across Beta, providing mutual support in cultivating their chapters. Additionally, training and brotherhood at events like Keystone have been invaluable for our planning and development. We often discuss how contributions to the BLF keep these events affordable for collegiate members, demonstrating the significant impact donations have across the General Fraternity. The brothers of Epsilon Mu also enjoyed the cornhole set we received for achieving 100% participation in the Sons of the Dragon Club program!
In 2023-24, 1,335 collegians gave $28,494
18 CHAPTERS WITH 100% PARTICIPATION
ARKANSAS
BAYLOR
BETHANY
EASTERN KENTUCKY
EMBRY-RIDDLE
GEORGE MASON IOWA
JOHN CARROLL
JOHNS HOPKINS KANSAS
KETTERING A KETTERING B MICHIGAN MIAMI
OKLAHOMA
TEXAS AT ARLINGTON WESTMINSTER
Since its creation, the Auto-Kai Club has experienced remarkable growth, increasing from $9,337 in FY15 from 135 members to $142,990 raised from 355 Club members in FY24.
11% of the total funds raised by BLF can be attributed to the Auto-Kai Club.
14.5% year-over-year increase in funds raisedin FY24.
‘ TIL WE ARRIVE AT THY SHRINE ON HIGH …
Bridge Builder Society (BBS) members are those brothers and Friends of Beta who have chosen to include the Foundation in their will or estate plans. Estate gifts from BBS members continue to be a vital source of support for both the Beta Leadership Fund and the Founders Fund Endowment.
In 2023–2024, $27,883 allocated from undesignated estate gifts strengthened the BLF, while $51,014 was directed to the Founders Fund, a quasi-endowment providing unrestricted annual support. This approach addresses the Fraternity’s immediate educational needs and ensures long-term financial sustainability.
Thanks to generous donors, along with an unwavering commitment to disciplined policies and consistently robust investment returns, the Founders Fund Endowment has enjoyed remarkable growth over the past 19 years.
DISTINGUISHED LEADER
William H. (Bert) Bates, Missouri’49, was a distinguished leader within Beta Theta Pi, having earned both the prestigious Francis W. Shepardson Award and the Oxford Cup. A former member of the Foundation Board of Directors and co-chairman of the Upon These Principles Campaign, Bert’s commitment to the Fraternity was unwavering.
In 1996, following his receipt of the Oxford Cup, the William H. (Bert) Bates Oxford Cup Scholarship Fund was established, supported by gifts from Bert and many of his chapter brothers. His generosity extended further during the Upon These Principles Campaign in 2002, when Bert became a member of the Bridge Builder Society with a provision in his estate.
Brother Bates was known for his leadership, wit and charm. He left a legacy defined by his dedication to both his profession and Beta Theta Pi. His life of service and generosity continues to impact future generations, truly reflecting a life well lived with a lasting legacy.
$51,014 Gifts received in 2023-24
$3,290,425 VALUE AS OF MAY 31, 2024 13.86% YOY GROWTH
After Brother Bates’ passing in 2022, a generous $150,000 gift was received, split evenly between his scholarship fund and the Founders Fund Endowment.
In 2003, Upon These Principles Campaign Chairman Bert Bates, Missouri ’49 (second from left) was joined by General Treasurer John Stebbins, Emory ’92, (left) and Trustee Dipper DiPaolo, Michigan ’78, to thank Tom Brennan, Ohio State ’51, (right) for the $1.5 million lead gift made by him and his brother, David Brennan, Ohio State ’53.
Bridge Builder Society
2024 member List
For more information, please visit beta.org/BBS.
AUBURN
Rod Hastie ’82
BALL STATE
Randy Phillips ’79
BETHANY
Dick Boyd ’61
Dave Butz ’60
Alex Delgiorno ’14
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Jim Strilesky ’72
Alan Young ’71
BROWN
Bruce Lloyd ’69
CAL STATE, CHICO
Bob Dean ’89
CASE
Jim Kewley ’66
Hank Vernon ’68
CENTRAL MICHIGAN
Terry Massie ’12
Tom Olver ’98
CHARLESTON
Zach Sierputowski ’16
CINCINNATI
El Bourgraf ’54
Tom Cassady ’76
Doug Eustice ’71
Dave Kerka ’88
Tom Seifert ’64
Mark Simon ’12
CLEMSON
Bryant Blakeslee ’06
COLGATE
Bruce Fein ’84
COLORADO MINES
Philip Moldenhauer ’75
Newell Orr ’48
COLORADO STATE
Tim Allen ’88
CONNECTICUT
Adam Porter-Price ’06
CORNELL
Rick Banks ’72
Phil Spiller ’95
DAYTON
Tom Farnsworth ’09
Fr. Simon Herrmann ’10
DENISON
George Brown ’60
DEPAUW
Jeff Cable ’82
Doug Vines ’68
EAST CAROLINA
Kirk Little ’82
Dave Pyle ’06
Adam Scarboro ’06
Jacob Tidwell ’04
EASTERN KENTUCKY
Martin Cobb ’96
Mike McFerren ’77
Nick Sexton ’11
EMORY
Bill Korth ’76
Biull Manning ’80
Jim Porter ’64
Tom Purinton ’63
Jeff Rundle ’03
KETTERING A
Matt Lepkowski ’98
LAWRENCE
John Stebbins ’92
Alan Teplis ’78
FLORIDA
Steve Becker ’69
Mike Gable ’67
Gary Leech ’70
Dave Leppert ’77
Matt Paynter ’00
FLORIDA ATLANTIC
Robert Billoni ’95
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL
Mike Angelica ’10
Steven Cruz ’12
FLORIDA STATE
Jeff McLain ’76
Curtiss Potter ’92
GENERAL FRATERNITY ROLLS
Joel Huxley ’06
GEORGIA TECH
Ted Haile ’75
Lynn Maddox ’64
Arthur Smith ’75
GMI-EMI
Dave Hogan ’74
Ron Meegan ’69
HANOVER
Sang Han ’60
Ross King ’62
HIGH POINT
Michael Dreher ’19
IDAHO
Bill Jordan ’69
ILLINOIS
John Manczak ’71
Gant Redmon ’59
INDIANA
Tad Drew ’72
Phil Goddard ’67
Jack Harris ’51
Charlie McCormick ’72
Jim Roudebush ’71
IOWA
Steve Bensema ’06
Neal Brower ’90
IOWA STATE
Mike Dubes ’66
Khayree Duckett ’17
Jud Horras ’97
Bill McCulloch ’56
Cork Peterson ’66
Ron Sande ’64
Bob Wiley ’87
JOHNS HOPKINS
Jim McMenamin ’71
KANSAS
Lloyd Kirk ’55
John Stewart ’60
KANSAS STATE
Chris Althoff ’00
Paul Attwater ’83
Loren Conrad ’61
Randy Groves ’78
Scott Hoisington ’79
JD Keith ’86
OHIO STATE
John Hopkins ’57
Dan Westerbeck ’67
David Wright ’67
OHIO WESLEYAN
Eric Eickhoff ’00
OKLAHOMA
Daniel Hertel ’09
Dave Schnackenberg ’90
LOUISVILLE
Tom Chapman ’71
Josh Latzko ’16
Matt Tsien ’80
LYNCHBURG
Charlie Warner ’87
MAINE
George Pullen ’03
MARYLAND
Vincent Chu ’87
MIAMI
Pete Barnhart ’66
Ben Beshear ’01
Jonathan Brant ’75
Phil Fernandez ’06
Tom Fey ’68
Jim Neef ’53
Jeff Newton ’77
John Slavens ’67
Bob Wertz ’61
MIAMI (FLA.)
Peter Darrow ’09
MICHIGAN
Jim Denbo ’63
Dipper DiPaolo ’78
Roger Helman ’89
Bill Johnson ’57
Ian Ross ’21
MICHIGAN STATE
Russ Palmer ’56
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE
Michael Filyaw ’14
MINNESOTA
Brent Anderson ’85
Ryan Marek ’12
Justin Miller ’00
MISSISSIPPI
Bill Lipscomb ’65
MISSOURI
Robert Healy ’64
Rick Kammerer ’80
Bob McKinley ’66
MIT
Ken Bryan ’88
Mike Feinstein ’82
NEBRASKA
R.C. Mead ’65
Preston Mesick ’06
Matt Roby ’07
Bud Walling ’61
NORTHWESTERN
Paul Gudonis ’76
John Mutz ’57
Justin Rutherford ’00
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN
Roger Roa ’02
OHIO
Rick Brown ’65
Brian Cain ’91
Dick Griffin ’65
Jeff Radomski ’81
Anonymous
ST. LAWRENCE
Kevin McGrath ’77
SYRACUSE
Marc Benshetler ’82
Bob Hanley ’83
Clif Heidel ’56
TCU
John Coker ’72
Chip Craft ’86
Koby Harrington ’09
Mike Ritz ’66
Lance Tolson ’82
OKLAHOMA STATE
Josh Fairchild ’05
Lou Linxwiler ’53
OREGON
Morry Arntson ’59
Art Carmichael ’62
Bill Crist ’68
John Herman ’60
PACIFIC
Julio Hernandez ’16
PURDUE
Dave Cox ’63
Terri Earnest ’66
Cary Wood ’89
John Young ’56
RHODE ISLAND
Jeff Flanagan ’93
RUTGERS
Ken Grispin ’70
SAINT LOUIS
Nick Block ’03
SAN DIEGO STATE
Patrick Hidalgo ’91
SAN JOSE STATE
Aaron Vogt ’17
SMU
John Hagerman ’63
David Light ’64
Don Pearce ’65
SOUTH DAKOTA
John Thietje ’61
Steve Wethor ’88
SOUTH FLORIDA
David Schmidt ’92
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Ryan King ’01
Kent Mire ’07
TEXAS
Hardie Bowman ’72
Michael Eubank ’83
Wade McMullen ’79
TEXAS AT ARLINGTON
Pat Connelly ’74
TEXAS TECH
Christian Ritchie ’17
Dean Stalcup ’71
TORONTO
Ross Marsh ’90
Rob McConnell ’79
TRUMAN STATE
Zach Lepperd ’16
UC IRVINE
Bryant Fiesta ’16
Christopher Ogilvie ’80
UCLA
Wally Chenoweth ’52
Mike Downer ’77
UNLV
Mike Kawazoe ’01
Willie Romero ’95
UTAH
Bob Stagg ’67
VIRGINIA TECH
Charlie Comer ’75
Wayne Kay ’73
Dan Westra ’76
Andy Wise ’10
WABASH
Jim Carroll ’65
Bob Grand ’78
Sam Hildebrand ’61
Ron Nichols ’64
John Roberts ’83
WASHINGTON & JEFFERSON
Victor Lazzaro ’67
WASHINGTON IN ST. LOUIS
Aaron Kozuki ’05
Tristan Sopp ’11
20 MEMBERS JOINED the Bridge Builder Society in 2023-2024.
In 2023-2024, individual ESTATE GIFTS totaled $99,712
These generous gifts help advance Beta’s mission today and for years to come.
WEST VIRGINIA
Tom Gulliford ’68
WESTERN ONTARIO
John Birkett ’71
Scott Falconer ’82
Doug Reid ’58
WESTERN RESERVE
Tom Lipton ’63
WESTMINSTER
Mike Esser ’70
Ted Planje ’68
James Williams ’86
WICHITA STATE
Bob Smith ’67
Tim Watt ’80
Brian Wells ’87
WILLAMETTE
David Ashby ’68
Ethan Braden ’02
Doug Houser ’57
WILLIAM & MARY
Patrick Everett ’07
WISCONSIN
Perry Atterholt ’83
Jim Curtis ’86
Bob Schnese ’83
Lou Wagner ’64
FRIENDS OF BETA AND PARENTS
Ron Beshear
Brian Breittholz
Carol Briggs
Sally Church
June Cole
Arlene Corsiglia
Anne Emmerth
Susan Fosdick
Carolyn Harmon
Betsy Humphreys
Chris McGill
Lindsey Mercer
Sandy Northrop
Jane Patrick
Dorotha Pitcher
Mona Skager
Susanne Sommer
Gwen Stoecklein
Diane Todd
Kathy Tolan
Kay Wiley
Ben Williams
TOP THREE WAYS TO GIVE
GIVE a charitable bequest in your will or living trust to the Beta Foundation.
NAME the Beta Foundation as a beneficiary in your 401(k) or other retirement plans.
OPEN a life insurance policy with the Beta Foundation as either the policy owner or beneficiary.
DESIGNATED EDUCATIONAL AREA (DEA) GRANT
The Designated Educational Area (DEA) Grant Program allows alumni to make charitable gifts earmarked for educational projects for chapter houses, such as libraries, study rooms, internet access and general learning space. The goal of the program is to promote positive cultures and shared social experiences through best-in-class homes.
23 chapters used the DEA program in 2023-2024.
$10,806,171 raised in DEA funds over the last five years.
35 CHAPTERS
benefited from DEA funds and grants over the past 15 years.
$1,000,000 $1,500,000
$0 $500,000
SINGING AGAIN MOTHER of MEN,
HAIL TO THEE
, BETA THETA PI!
Oregon recently raised $465,329 for housing renovations.
As the fall 2023 semester wrapped up, the Alpha Beta Chapter at Iowa boasted over $100,000 in their Billhighway account, thanks to former Chapter President Lucas Pieper ’24. The chapter had eliminated debt while enhancing the member experience and ensuring fiscal responsibility. Current Chapter President Ryan Bybee ’24, and his executive board are focused on making the Beta experience more affordable. Also concerned about the surplus funds, Chapter Counselor Robert Alberts, General Fraternity ’20, explored impactful investments and ultimately proposed establishing a scholarship to support upperclassmen who were disengaged due to financial pressures.
In a pivotal meeting, Bybee and Alberts aligned on a $25,000 donation to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation to launch the scholarship via an
endowment fund. Recognizing the need for engaged upperclassmen, they aimed to make membership more accessible. Support for this initiative grew among alumni, with Scott Hall ’98, and Robert Bitzer ’17, contributing an initial matching gift of $17,500 for the scholarship as part of the Build the Bridge Campaign.
Beyond financial initiatives, the chapter has excelled academically, ranking #1 among IFC chapters in fall 2023 and spring 2024.
Notable accolades include Bybee winning the Andrew Mogni Legacy Award and the chapter receiving the Sisson Award for the 11th time. The Alpha Beta Scholarship Fund aims to award its first $1,000 scholarship this fiscal year, reinforcing the chapter’s commitment to leadership and affordability.
ALPHA BETA CHAPTER: BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE THROUGH SCHOLARSHIP
WE SHALL INVOKE
A BRIGHTER MORROW, SINGING A BETA LAY!
BUILD THE BRIDGE CAMPAIGN
At the 185th General Convention, Beta Theta Pi proudly launched the Build the Bridge Campaign, a transformative $25 million initiative aimed at expanding access to our Fraternity for deserving young men. With over $12.7 million committed, the Foundation is poised to enhance its reach and impact.
As Campaign Co-chairman Mike Feinstein, MIT ’82 stated, the fraternity experience is more vital than ever for today’s college students facing challenges like declining enrollment and rising mental health concerns. Beta Theta Pi offers essential support, fostering lifelong bonds and personal growth.
THE CAMPAIGN FOCUSES ON TWO KEY INITIATIVES:
AFFORDABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY: Establishing new scholarships and expanding need-based support to ensure financial barriers don’t hinder young men from experiencing Beta.
LIFELONG BROTHERHOOD: Investing in mentoring, professional development and a digital networking platform to strengthen connections among alumni and current members.
The Foundation will also fortify the Beta Leadership Fund, crucial for nurturing principled leaders across chapters.
Scan the QR code or visit beta.org/btb-campaign to learn more about how Beta plans to build a brighter future for the Fraternity and the young men it serves.
MIKE FEINSTEIN
MIT ’82
Campaign Co-chairman
“Brothers and friends, today’s men need fraternities. And specifically, they need Beta Theta Pi. We know the Beta experience provides connection and community, propelling members to succeed in college and beyond. Through friendships, mentorship and development, it bonds them to one another and those around them –creating a network of support and fostering an array of unique opportunities that transform their lives.”
All Betas, friends and supporters are invited to join in building a bridge that ensures Beta Theta Pi continues to shape the lives of young men for generations to come.
$25.2
MILLION INITIATIVE
More than $12.7 million has already been raised through the generosity of lead donors.
WAYNE KAY
Virginia Tech ’73 Campaign Co-chairman
“The real impact is witnessed when you talk to our young men who have benefited from leadership programming and scholarships. Seeing firsthand how these programs and gifts have transformed lives reinforces why we must support the Build the Bridge Campaign. [My Beta Sweetheart] Susan and I, along with many others, are investing in this campaign to ensure that the Beta experience remains strong and accessible.”
THANK YOU
Thank you to all Betas, Friends of Beta and family members who support our Great and Good Fraternity!
THE BETA WALKWAY
More than 8,000 Betas and friends have a personalized brick in the Beta Walkway at the Administrative Office. You can also secure a place in this historic spot with a gift of $500 or more!
Establish a special Named Endowment Fund to make an impact in perpetuity. A minimum investment is required, and the Beta Foundation will work with you to ensure your named gift meets your intentions.
Make a charitable gift of stock, bonds or mutual funds. And, if you were born before 1954, you may also realize a significant tax savings by making a qualified charitable distribution directly from your individual retirement account.
MAKE YOUR 2024-2025 GIFT
Scan the QR code today or visit gift.beta.org/AR.
Many employers offer gift matching programs to encourage charitable giving. Your contribution to the Beta Foundation may be doubled or tripled. Check with your employer or visit beta.org/match to see if they participate.
Many Betas and friends make their gifts through the Auto-Kai Club by setting up a recurring gift online, the esteemed John Reily Knox Club with a gift of $1,839 or more, or the Sons of the Dragon Club (collegians) with a gift of $10 or more.
