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Is Your Set Complete? The oldest, continuously published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded December 15, 1872, by Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869. Every couple of years, a bound volume of recent issues is created and made available to individuals and chapters. The Communications Department is pleased to provide this limited time offer to help you begin or add to your collection of this treasured publication. To purchase your copy of The Beta Theta Pi, Vol. 128-130 (Fall 2000-Spring 2003), send a check for $25 (payable to “Beta Theta Pi”) to: Bound Volume, c/o Beta Theta Pi, 5134 Bonham Road, Oxford, OH 45056 or call 800-800-BETA (2382.) Supplies are limited!
All Beta Theta Pi Fraternity members now have the opportunity to join the Brooks Brothers Corporate Membership Program. Retail Brand Alliance, the parent company of Brooks Brothers, Adrienne Vittadini and Carolee, has developed this program that benefits you.This relationship was initiated to provide you with an everyday discount when shopping for your wardrobe needs and a way to provide you with enjoyable incentives. As a member of the Brooks Brothers program, you will be afforded a 15% discount on regular and everyday value priced merchandise at all Brooks Brothers, Brooks Brothers Factory Outlets, Adrienne Vittadini and Carolee stores nationwide when you enroll online at: membership.BrooksBrothers.com How can you start receiving this wonderful benefit today? Simply visit the web site indicated above and follow the enrollment instructions. You will be asked to enter the following information to validate your association with Beta Theta Pi Fraternity: Organization ID #: 14601 Organization Enrollment PIN #: 54723 Once you have entered the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity Organization ID# and Organization Enrollment PIN#, please follow the prompts to complete your enrollment. At the end of the online enrollment process, you will have the opportunity to print out a temporary shopping pass. You may use this temporary shopping pass to receive your discount until your Corporate Membership Card arrives. If you provided your email address when enrolling, you will also receive a confirmation email the next business day that can be used as a temporary shopping pass. You will receive your personalized Corporate Membership Card in approximately 3-5 business days. If you should have any questions or comments during your enrollment process, please call a Retail Brand Alliance Coordinator at the following toll-free number. Coordinators are available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm EST. Brooks Brothers Corporate Membership: (866) 5154747 Your Corporate Membership discount is valid in-stores nationwide, it is not valid for online or catalog purchases. For a store location near you, please visit www.BrooksBrothers.com - www.AdrienneVittadini.com - www.Carolee.com
The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/Vol. 133/No. 4
[Spring Contents] FEATURES 14
Cover Story:
28 Is 2.5 Good Enough? Beyond the GPA: What it will take to fulfill the Fraternity’s commitment to intellectual excellence.
Answering the Call of Principled Leadership
A behind the scenes look at four presidents’ journey through The Presidents Academy
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Chapter Installations Three distinguished chapters have been officially reinstated at East Carolina, Indiana and Mississippi
20 Departments 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 13 34 36 40 46
From the Editor Letters to the Editor News and Notes 15 Minutes With . . . Books by Betas Musical Notes Marching Along Alumni News Campus Leaders Sports Roundup Mystic Shrine The Last Word
36 40
Eddie Werner,Washington & Jefferson ’06
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Chapter executive teams learn leadership, conflict management and team dynamics at the new Keystone
Regional Leadership Conferences
22 THE BETA THETA PI
The Missing Piece
Canadian Centennial A preview of what is in store as the Fraternity prepares to commemorate 100 years in Canada
The Offical Magazine of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. The oldest continuously published college fraternity magazine, The Beta Theta Pi was founded December 15, 1872, by Charles Duy Walker, V.M.I. 1869.
Spring 2006
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[From the Editor] oh, Canada!
GENERAL SECRETARY
David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67
PRESIDENT
P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63
GENERAL TREASURER
eral Convention (June 29-July 2) will be treated to the finest Toronto, Ontario, has to offer. Whether it’s the St. Lawrence Market, CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Harbourfront or the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto is home to many amazing attractions.
John H. Stebbins, Emory ’92
VICE PRESIDENTS
John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56 Kenneth J. Gripsin, Rutgers ’70 W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 Gant Redmon, Illinois ’59 David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 Charles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87
As Canada celebrates its 139th birthday on Canada Day, July 1, some 700+ Convention-goers from across North America will gather at the Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre to commemorate 100 years of Beta Theta Pi in Canada.
BETA THETA PI FOUNDATION
Illustration by Roger Warrick
The Fraternity has hosted its annual gathering in Canada nine times during the past century, including six visits to the Bigwin Inn, Lake of Bays, Ontario. The Convention was held at Lake of Bays in 1925, 1927, 1950, 1952 and 1966. Only Mackinaw Island, Cincinnati and Wooglin-on-Chautauqua have seen more annual Beta Conventions. The first Canadian Convention was held at Niagara Falls in 1911; the first — and only other — Toronto Convention was held in 1988. The Toronto (Theta Zeta) chapter was chartered at the 67th General Convention in Denver, Colorado, in 1906. Perhaps the most widely-recognizable story of mutual assistance in the Fraternity focuses on this remarkable chapter, which met with success during much of its first decade until the men of the then eight-year-old chapter enlisted in the armed forces when Canada entered World War I in 1914 — three years earlier than the United States. A desperate letter was sent to General Secretary Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883, on December 22, 1915 asking for advice regarding the Chapter’s situation as “approximately 40% (of the 107 members) are with the Expeditionary Forces and more men are leaving every month.” A second letter, sent by Chapter President John L. Skinner 1916, expressed the optimism worthy of a true Beta leader. He wrote, “Our Fraternity spirit has been heightened by the difficulties which we must surmount, and I know that Beta Theta Pi will be strong in Toronto as long as there is a man left in the Chapter.” Shepardson responded, “We must help Toronto!” In his January 1916 General Secretary’s Bulletin, titled Wooglin’s Work, Shepardson recounted the situation and issued an appeal to help the Toronto chapter. “We want a dollar a man from every Beta, contributed on ‘Pater Knox Night,’ when we think of our debt to the founders of our Fraternity,” he wrote.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS W.H. (Bert) Bates, Missouri ’49 James J. Ellis, Missouri ’55 Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82 Garland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52 William F. Hahn, Lehigh ’49 Thomas W. Hook, Miami ’81 Jeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96 Lynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86 Jeffrey N. Newton, Miami ’77 Richard C. Spangler III, North Carolina ’71 John H. Stebbins, Emory ’92
EDITOR
Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98
Associate DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS MacGregor H. Hill II, William & Mary ’04
GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Sarah Shepherd
CONTRIBUTORS
Phyllis Bowie; Jay Langhammer; Kenneth S. Stephen, Toronto ’77; Erica Suding
EDITORS EMERITUS
Erv Johnson, APR, Idaho ’53 Robert H. Kurz, Miami ’58 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 Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring for $30 one-time prepaid subscription. Periodical 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, 2004. Produced in the USA.
He continued, “Let us make this the great event of the college year, the greatest event in the long history of Beta Theta Pi. It is an opportunity that comes but once in a lifetime. It is a chance to prove Beta Theta Pi what some of us hope that it is, the greatest of American College Fraternities. I bespeak your cooperation. I have faith in the Fraternity. I believe it will prove its power on February 7, 1916.”
DEADLINES Summer 2006 ....................................................... May 15 Fall 2006 ...........................................................August 15 Winter 2007 ................................................November 15 Spring 2007................................................... February 15
Response to the appeal was overwhelming; by the end of March 1916, almost $3,000 had been raised. The Beta Book explains that $983.97 of the amount raised was not expended, and that it was — at the request of the Toronto chapter — contributed to the newly-established Baird Fund in 1919 in honor of those who paid the supreme sacrifice. Thus, the Fund became and remains a standing monument to Beta brotherhood, to aid and mutual assistance and to the Beta spirit!”
FOUNDATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Brennan Hall Postmaster: 5134 Bonham Road Send address P.O. Box 6277 changes to: Oxford, Ohio 45056 Beta Theta Pi Tel: 513-523-7591 P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, OH Fax: 513-523-2381 45056 aoffice@wooglin.com www.BetaThetaPi.org
As we gather in Toronto this summer, let all brothers be mindful of the truly remarkable and everlasting Beta spirit. — T. Olver
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Founded 1839, Miami University BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Attendees at the upcoming 167th Gen-
Some 4,300 men have joined the Fraternity through its seven Canadian chapters (Toronto, British Columbia, Western Ontario, Guelph, McGill, Bishop’s and Carleton) and more than 2,000 Betas representing 78 chapters live in Canada today.
BETA THETA PI FRATERNITY
The Beta Theta Pi
[Letters to the Editor] Postage Paid
One thing that really impresses me about Beta Theta Pi is that you send me the magazine and post overseas! I receive absolutely no mail from anyone in the USA and it’s nice to see that Beta cares enough about its members to cover the cost of postage. Thanks for not forgetting us Beta alumni who live in different countries. — Matthew
M. Curtin, Ohio State ’01 (Ho Chi Mihn City, Japan)
“Deep” Disappointment
I must take exception to the article on page 16 (winter 2006), “America’s Most Famous Whistle Blower Unmasked.” While you acknowledge that “(Mark) Felt’s role stirs both scorn and praise,” I do believe the manner and tone of the article lends praise for an act solely motivated by political partisanship. As you should know, additional facts and later revelations of events both prior and subsequent to Watergate show that the common wisdom is in fact a myth, inaccurate and the result of partisan reporting. How differently Felt is treated than other “leakers.” An honorable man would not have hidden in anonymity and used the press, as a foil eager to promote his message. He is not the patriot who pledged his life, fortune and ever sacred honor. However, he chose ‘reveal himself’ now to write a book? Why? It is inappropriate for such a friendly article to be printed in a magazine of a fraternity that espouses to lead young men to become “Men of Principle.” I think that you can do better than this. — James M. Niver, Columbia ’54
Like a Good Neighbor
On behalf of all Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, I thank you for your kind and thoughtful article about our beloved past grand president, Jim Robeson (fall 2005, page 54.) Our Board of Directors remembers fondly our visit to your administrative office in January 2004, as part of our meeting in Oxford. Although it was one of the coldest days in the history of Ohio, we were warmly and graciously received by your staff, and it was evident that day the “mutual admiration society” that existed between them and Jim. It was clear he felt right at home. Rarely in life do we come in contact with such a good, decent man as Jim Robeson. His untimely death reminds each one of us in the Greek world of the absolute requirement that we love and encourage our brothers, because we never know when they will be taken from us. Thank you again for being such a good neighbor to Jim and Teddi. — Archer L. Yeatts III, grand president, Sigma
Phi Epsilon
Remembering Hi
Hi Stephenson, Miami ’39, and his Beta Administrative Office buddy, Bob Tom Howard, DePauw ’37, were two if the most dedicated Sons of Wooglin I’ve ever known. They did more for for Miami University and Beta Theta Pi than any two people I know. I consider it a special privilege to have been able to greet them as Brother Bob and Brother Hi for five decades. I think the last time I saw Hi was after a basketball game last year. Waiting in
the Millett Hall concourse for Fred Brower (Miami ’50) to take him home, his declining health was obvious. I was thrilled when, with little hesitation, he was able to greet me with, “Brother Bob.” What a treasure Hi and Kay Stephenson have been to Oxford and Miami. — Robert H. Kurz, Miami ’48, editor emeritus
Defending Fraternity
For more than 200 years, fraternities have contributed to the growth and development of college men. Fraternities promote academic achievement. Approximately one third of the NorthAmerican Interfraternity Conference’s 4,800 chapters exceed a 3.0 grade point average. Research indicates that retention rates are higher for freshmen fraternity men than non-fraternity men, and fraternity men are more likely to graduate from college. In addition, fraternity men serve the communities in which they live by collectively contributing millions of hours of community service and donating millions of dollars to various charities. As executive vice president, I want to assure you that addressing high risk alcohol use by our undergraduate members is a top priority. Misuse of alcohol is a societal issue that colleges and universities must address each day. Fraternities continue to use a variety of educational methods to address problematic use of alcohol, including alcohol-free housing, campus-wide symposiums and direct educational efforts. To change the current alcohol culture on today’s college campus will require all stakeholders to work together and commit to changing high risk behaviors. The NIC is doing our part and enforcing our standards. — Jon Williamson, North-American Interfraternity Conference
(submitted to the USA Today, February 2006)
GOT
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COOL CAREER?
Are you a young professional with the perfect job? The Beta Theta Pi plans to highlight Cool Careers
in an upcoming series of special features. To participate, send an email to tolver@wooglin.com detailing what you do professionally, how you chose your work and why you enjoy what you do.
Spring 2006
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[News & Notes] Johnson Receives Francis W. Shepardson Award
Johnson continues to serve as a regular contributor to The Beta Theta Pi magazine, and has been a regular speaker at numerous Beta conventions and conclaves. His lifetime of dedicated service to his beloved fraternity began long before he, and his wife Ginger, ventured to Oxford, Ohio, in 1992. He was Idaho’s chapter counselor (1972-81), served on the house corporation board of directors, and was the founding editor of Idaho’s quarterly Gamma Gamma Alumni Newsletter in 1977. A native of Boise, Johnson was editor of two leading European travel magazines, prior to 1992. Previously, he had been public relations manager for Pittsburgh National Bank and in 1967 opened the public relations counseling firm, L.E. Johnson & Associates, Inc., which he headed for 20 years. In 1976-77 he took time from public relations duties to travel throughout the United States, writing a weekly newspaper column, One for the Road, for a group of newspapers ranging from Portland, Maine, to Vancouver, Washington.
Johnson (left) accepts the Shepardson award from General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63
Former Beta Theta Pi Director of Communications and Editor L.E. (Erv) Johnson, Idaho ’53 was presented with the Francis Wayland Shepardson award at a special alumni appreciation dinner at the Grove Hotel in Boise, Idaho, on April 22. The dinner was held in conjunction with the spring meeting of the General Fraternity Board of Trustees.
Earning a bachelor’s in business law from the University of Idaho, he was on active duty in the U.S. Army (1954-56), reserve duty (1956-61) and retired with the rank of captain.
Johnson was appointed Beta Theta Pi’s director of communications in December 1992. With this title, he was also selected as General Fraternity editor of The Beta Theta Pi quarterly magazine, serving through November 2001. The Fraternity’s communications efforts grew exponentially as a result of his expertise, dedication and resolve.
He earned the Accredited Public Relations designation by the Public Relations Society of America in 1968. Brother Johnson was president of the College Fraternity Editor’s Association (1998-99) — one of two Betas to serve in that role in the organization’s 82-year history — and was presented CFEA’s Marilyn Simpson Ford award in 1996.
As one of the final tasks of his career as a professional Fraternity man, Johnson accepted the exhaustive task of authoring and editing the splendid, award-winning, 15th edition of Son of the Stars: A Manual for Pledges of Beta Theta Pi, copyright 2002. Today, each and every incoming pledge receives a copy of Brother Johnson’s comprehensive work.
Johnson and his wife Ginger — and their dog, Sara B. — spend their time traveling throughout the West in their RV, portraying historical characters, giving colorful tours of lighthouses and Army posts, and attending baseball games.
Umstadter Named Leadership Consultant
Robert Umstadter, San Jose State ’05, of Burlingame, Calif., joined the Administrative Office staff in January as a leadership consultant. His responsibilities include traveling throughout North America counseling chapters and colonies in the Mid-Atlantic region. Umstadter will work closely with campus chapters in the areas of leadership, scholarship, recruitment, risk management, alumni relations and new member education. While traveling, he will meet with university officials and alumni and chapter advisors to measure the progress of each chapter. Umstadter is a former chapter president, pledge educator, social chairman, Kai Committee chairman, webmaster and fundraising chairman. He also served as president of the Interfraternity Council and Order of Omega. Umstadter was a participant in The Institute for Men of Principle in 2002, a delegate to the 164th General Convention in 2003 and a participant in the Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge in 2005. As an undergraduate, Umstadter completed Air Force ROTC field training, was a member of Arnold Air Society and Pi Sigma Alpha, a national political science honor society. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from San Jose State University in December 2005.
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Johnson has authored several books, including Treasure of the Hills: The First 100 Years of Beta Theta Pi in Idaho, in 2004, scores of television scripts and films, hundreds of features, articles, brochures, annual reports and speeches. He also performed E. Hemingway, a one-man show during 1980.
The Beta Theta Pi
15 minutes with… Full Name: James M. Strilesky School & Grad Year: British Columbia ’72 Job: Elementary School Principal at a dual-track, French-immersion school Born Where & When: Smokey Lake, Alberta, Canada — February 17, 1950 Family Stats: Wife Beverly (34 years); son Michael (Boston University graduate) Pets: No! (Allergies) Favorite sport/game to play: Skiing and cycling A FEW OF YOUR
FAVORITE THINGS . . . Color: Black Food: Anything pasta Words: We’ve already done the brilliant thing . . . let’s go with “That’s great!” Beta Song: Old Porch Chairs Dessert: Apple pie and cheddar cheese. Have you had it? It’s an English thing. Artist: Neil Young Book: It’s not About the Bike by Lance Armstrong Movie: The Shawshank Redemption Toothpaste: Crest
First job: Bag boy at Safeway. I started off at $1.50/hour; after five years, I was up to $20/hour. Worst job: Washing dishes on the train from Vancouver to Winnipeg. I lasted four days. Best way to make you laugh: Tell me a cute story. I’m not much for jokes, but I like a good story. Word or phrase you overuse: Brilliant! Worst trouble you got into as a child: I rode my bike one day into downtown Edmonton without permission. I must have been about age seven. It was a 7- to 10-mile ride; it sounded like a good idea at the time! Hidden talent: You know the two sticks . . . uh . . . you use them to balance a third. What’s it called? You know what I mean . . . I recently learned in Quebec. Oh, forget it . . . let’s go with juggling. (He was searching for “Mystix Juggling sticks,” also known as “devil sticks” or “flower sticks.”) Weirdest present you ever got: A Christmas present from a kid; it was like an ornate . . . lattice-work . . . lampshade. White with sparkles. It’s got a treasured spot in the attic.
JAMES M. STRILESKY, SCHOLARSHIP COMMISSIONER
A loyal member of Beta Theta Pi throughout his life, Jim Strilesky has served as scholarship commissioner since 2000. Jim was a vice president on the General Fraternity Board of Trustees, 1992-95, and has been a district chief and regional director. He was also elected president of the 161st General Convention (2000) in Schaumburg, Illinois.
Most unusual thing in your fridge right now: Oh . . . I can see it. (pause) Caramel Honey. It’s good on toast. Favorite Beta memory: Having dinner at the chapter house as an undergrad, telling stories . . . it was great fun! Most impressive brush with greatness: Riding the Champs Elysées the day after Lance (Armstrong) did; right after the 2005 Tour de France. Best advice you’ve ever been given: “It’s not often what you say, but how you say it.” That advice was given to me by a Beta, Jim Kileen, (British Columbia ’55) who went on to become the president of the World Confederation of Organisations of the Teaching Profession. How many speeding tickets: Ohhh . . . I got five in a row one summer. I was 17 and driving a Datsun 510. It’s been 40 years since I’ve gotten one!
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[Books by Betas] What Were You Thinking??
Mark A. Barondess, Virginia Tech ’81 Hard Cover. 291 pages. US$25.95. Phoenix Press. 2005. Available www.Amazon.com and www.BN.com This indispensable guide for anyone considering marriage or divorce is filled with solid legal advice, humorous anecdotes and tricks of the trade from an attorney who normally charges $600 per hour. Mark Barondess addresses many questions commonly asked by clients considering divorce, and just as importantly, he is joined by celebrity friends such as Dr. Phil McGraw and Larry King to talk about the institution of marriage and their perspective of what makes a truly happy marriage. What Were You Thinking?? offers a wealth of information written with Barondess’s undeniable wit and humor to illustrate his points. Barondess is Of Counsel to the Los Angeles firm of Christensen, Miller, Fink, Jacobs, Glaser, Weil & Shapiro, LLP. He has represented various sports legends and members of Congress, and serves as general counsel to Larry King and his affiliated companies. Barondess and his wife Rose live in Annapolis, Md., and Beverly Hills, Calif., with their sons Alec and Andrew.
A Charge Nurse’s Guide: Navigating the Path of Leadership Scott J. Allen, Minnesota ’95 and Cathy Leary Paperback. 143 pages. US$25.95. Center for Leader Development Press. 2006. Available at www.Bookmasters.com
Submit a Book for Review
Have you recently published a book that you would like featured in “Books by Betas?” Send a signed copy of the book, a brief description of the work and a brief biography to: Thomas C. Olver, Editor
The Beta Theta Pi
Brennan Hall 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056
A charge nurse has numerous duties that must be skillfully balanced everyday. They are responsible for managing the patients’ medications, treatments and activities of daily living, managing information, managing schedules of diagnostic and treatment procedures handled by other departments to fit into the patient’s day and more. All of these tasks are important and learning to balance them may be one of the hardest tasks for a charge nurse to learn. Scott Allen and Cathy Leary use inspirational stories, quotes, case studies, helpful hints and self assessments in this guide for charge nurses. The book may serve as a guide for a discussion group, help individuals reflect on their own work or merely provide a seasoned charge nurse with additional resources. This guide is meant to provide the tools needed to successfully navigate the path of leadership as charge nurse. Allen recently completed his PhD in leadership and change. He and his wife Jessica reside in Cleveland, Ohio.
Back Porch Swing
Allen R. Bohl, Bowling Green ’70 Paperback. 425 pages. US$22.99. Advantage Media Group. 2005. Available at www.AllenBohl.com Tough decisions face hometown basketball star Lance Stoler as he struggles to make good choices in light of his deeply-held values. Encounters with basketball heroes and coaches, the conflicts that arise often pull him back to his down-to-earth family in eastern Kentucky. Family traditions and relationships are at stake when Lance is lured by college basketball fame. Regardless of the reader’s age or knowledge of sports, Back Porch Swing delivers a heartwarming story where family values, character and integrity are tested. Karl Benson, commissioner of the Western Athletic Conference praises Bohl stating, “Al has created a tremendous story that shows how the values and principles that are developed through strong family relationships can be strengthened by participation in sport. It’s a great read by someone who believes in what he has written.” Bohl’s career in athletic administration stretches over 25 years and four universities including Fresno State University and the University of Kansas. Throughout his career he worked to enhance academics and regularly integrated teaching into his active schedule. Bohl and his wife Sherry reside in St. Augustine, Fla., where he serves as an adjunct professor in the sports management program at Flagler College.
You 1.0
Matthew L. Kounkel D.C., Iowa ’94 Paperback. 147 pages. US$14.95. iUniverse, Inc. 2005. Available www.kounkelchiro.com and www.Amazon.com Many Americans take preventative measures to increase the lifespan of their possessions, but what are they doing to increase the lifespan of their most valuable possession — themselves? You 1.0 is one of the most valuable instruction manuals you can own. Dr. Kounkel compares the human body to a computer that can crash, become infected with a virus, and become slow and outdated without proper care. He discusses posture, rest, intake, mind and exercise, the P.R.I.M.E. components needed to maintain health and wellness, which are the five essentials that help the human body operate at its optimal level. This easy to read guide offers a unique and simplified approach for maintaining your health. Dr. Kounkel is a faculty member and supervising clinician at Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas.
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The Beta Theta Pi
[Musical Notes] continued from page…8
Do or Die: The Baby-Boomer Man’s Guide to Regaining Health, Happiness, Vitality, and a Longer, Fuller Life
James S. McFarland, Idaho ’71 Paperback. 292 pages. US$21.95. iUniverse, Inc. 2005. Available www.Amazon.com and www.Do-Or-Die.net Targeted towards the aging, overweight, male baby-boomer man, Do or Die presents a plan for the middle aged man to fight type two diabetes and heart disease through lifestyle changes. McFarland notes that he is a normal, average older man who was close to cutting his life short by inactivity, overeating and hypertension. Over the past three years, he has created a new life based on fitness, responsible nutrition, faith and life balance. In his book, he shares all of these tips in a program he calls Evolve 26, a specific 26-week renewal program. Along with this program, McFarland offers numerous suggestions to help older men regain health. His hope is that Do or Die will motivate other baby-boomer men to get healthy again. McFarland and his wife reside in Seattle.
Hooked: Pirates, Poaching and the Perfect Fish G. Bruce Knecht, Colgate ’80 Hardcover. 304 pages. US$24.95. Rodale, Inc. 2006. Available June 1 from www.rodalestore.com
A story about the poaching of the Patagonian toothfish, more commonly known as the Chilean Sea Bass, Hooked is built around one of the longest pursuits in maritime history. The illegal fishing vessel Viarsa was pursued by the Australian patrol boat Southern Supporter in a chase that would lead halfway around Antarctica. The thrilling tale captivates readers through the perilous chase, the high-stakes environmental battle and courtroom drama with an unexpected twist. More than just a gripping sea adventure, Hooked also chronicles the ascendance of Chilean Sea Bass — how a little-known Californian seafood merchant discovered it, how chefs fell in love with it and how it became a bestselling dish at restaurants across America. “Hooked is a fish story, a global whodunit, a courtroom drama — and a critically important ecological message all rolled into one. Read this and you’ll never look at Chilean Sea Bass on the menu the same way,” declares former NBC Nightly News Anchor Tom Brokaw. Knecht is also the author of The Proving Ground and writes for The Wall Street Journal. He is an avid sailor and has raced across the Atlantic on the yacht that broke the 100-year-old transatlantic race record.
Stanton Lanier Georgia Tech ’86
CD US$15 (+s/h.) Music to Light the World. 2005. Available at www.stantonlanier.com
The Voice
Stanton Lanier, known as the Pianist of Peace, has released his fourth album, The Voice. Produced by Grammy award winner Will Ackerman, the album features the angelic vocals of Noah Wilding and accompaniment by renowned cellist Eugene Friesen. Lanier recorded the album at George Lucas Skywalker Sound Studios in California. “I’d been building credibility for my music little by little, but this was a huge leap to have Will Ackerman producing and to record at Skywalker Sound,” stated Lanier. The Voice made the Top 15 Contemporary Instrumental Albums for 2005 (ranked #9) by Mike Debbage with Solo Piano Publications. The start of Lanier’s piano career began with lessons at the age of six and writing his first song at 14. While attending Georgia Tech, he took a break from composing but continued to play the pianos around campus, including an old upright at the Gamma Eta chapter house. After the birth of his first child in 1997, Lanier began composing again and had recorded his first CD in his basement by Christmas 2001. He had a second CD recorded by Christmas 2002, and a third followed in April 2004. Lanier now devotes himself to his music full time through his nonprofit organization, Music to Light the World. “I create original melodies inspired by ancient scriptures that have impacted my life,” explains Lanier. “The piano and stories of George Winston, Jim Brickman, Kevin Kern and Yani inspired me to attempt something that would seem to be impossible. To make a difference in the world and people’s spiritual peace through solo piano.” He feels that instrumental music does not have a language barrier and hopes this will help make a positive difference in lives around the world. Ackerman praised Lanier saying, “Stanton Lanier has more brilliant melodic ideas than it is fair for one person to possess. That he is also blessed with emotional connection to bring these melodies to vibrant life is, however, what makes his music so special. Stanton believes sincerely and deeply in the healing capacity of music. Having worked with him so closely in the creation of The Voice, I too am a believer.” Lanier believes that we all long for peace, stillness and calm in a world full of stress, busyness and hurray and that his music will be instrumental for helping every person who listens to his music find peace. Lanier’s previous releases include Walk in the Light, Still Waters and Draw Near. He has performed for more than 10,000 people and sold some 10,000 CDs in 45 states and eight countries. His music has been heard on The Weather Channel, the Delilah Radio Show, internet radio and iTunes. In addition to his music, Lanier enjoys spending time with his wife Lorie and their two children, shooting basketball, traveling and reading. Spring 2006
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[Marching Along] Robert T. Caplinger California-Riverside ’92
Caplinger was named one of three educators to receive the National Middle School Association’s Distinguished Educator award. He was recognized for his efforts to implement proven strategies for increasing young adolescents’ academic and developmental growth. Caplinger was nominated for his work as counselor and dean of students at Edgewood Middle School in West Covina, Calif. Before working at Edgewood, Caplinger taught at Imperial Middle School in La Habra, Calif. He has earned two master’s degrees from the University of La Verne and Whittier College. Caplinger recently moved to Oregon’s Lake Oswego Junior High.
Richard J. Crossland Case ’65
Richard J. Crossland, Crossland has co-founded Integrated Global Logistics, LLC, dividing his time between the Hudson, Ohio, office and global headquarters at Memphis, Tenn. Crossland serves as CEO for the logistics firm. Prior to this position, he served as a vice president of Phillips Lighting, CEO of DuroTest, president of SLI Lighting, COO of Genlyte Thomas Group and CEO of JJI Lighting. Crossland holds an undergraduate degree in engineering from Case Institute of Technology and his MBA in finance and marketing from the Weatherhead School of Case Western University. He and his wife Joyce enjoy spending time with their six grandchildren.
Bradford H. Fletcher Dartmouth ’76
Fletcher was selected the 2005 Commercial Association of Realtors Industrial Broker of the Year. Fletcher, a broker with Grubb & Ellis Company was also recently named to the President’s Council, the company’s premier symbol of achievement. The CAR Broker of the Year honor is given to a professional who stands out among his peers in recognition of the highest production in the Portland, Ore. Metropolitan area. This is the sixth year Fletcher has been recognized for his work. He has represented companies such as Intel and Nike, and had a transaction volume of more than 1.1 million square feet in 2005.
Joseph T. Clees Dickinson ’81
Clees has joined the law firm of Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. and heads the firm’s new Phoenix office. Clees is a managing shareholder and founding member of the new office. Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest labor and employment law firms. Clees will oversee the day to day operations of the Phoenix office and represent employers throughout the nation in discrimination and wrongful discharge cases, employment counseling and labor relations. He was recognized in the 2005 edition of Best Lawyers in America. Prior to joining Ogletree Deakins, Clees was the
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The Beta Theta Pi
group leader of the labor and employment practice of an international law firm.
Leland S. (Lee) Turner Jr. Florida ’59
Turner Jr. performed piano pieces from his latest album, I’ll Fly Away, at Bill and Gloria Gaither’s “Homecoming Friends” tour in Jacksonville, Fla. in January. This is Turner’s second time performing for the tour. With some 9,000 fans in attendance, Turner received a standing ovation and words of praise from Gospel great Bill Gaither on his new album. The album features 14 beautiful hymns and Gospel songs and is Turner’s fourth Turner at the piano. album. He and his wife Dianne enjoy writing music together and own a publishing company Turnersong. Visit www.turnersong.com for more information.
Dr. Thomas L. Sechrest Florida State ’71
Sechrest has been named director of the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Ethics Program at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, where he is a member of the faculty of the Graduate School of Management and Business. The MSOLE program was one of the first in the United States established to educate business leaders about ethical practice. Dr. Sechrest has taught MSOLE since the Program’s inception. He is also the faculty chair of Leadership Austin, the premier community leadership development organization in Central Texas, where he works with elected and appointed officials as well as volunteers working to address horizon issues facing the region. He actively writes and speaks about the ethical education of leaders. Dr. John H. Burson III, Georgia Tech ’55 had the opportunity to provide his medical services in Iraq. A practicing ear, nose and throat physician, Burson received an email from the Office of the Surgeon General requesting his help with the doctor shortage in Iraq. He first thought his age — he was nearing 70 when the initial request was made — would make him ineligible, but he was desperately needed and was deployed on November 20, 2005. Since his initial visit, he has been asked to return for another tour. After graduating from Georgia Tech, Burson attended Emory Medical School with the help of a scholarship from Dr. G.B. Espy, Georgia Tech ’57.
Andrew C. Kung Johns Hopkins ’00
Kung earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Maryland, College Park. While in graduate school, Kung performed cutting-edge research in the field of organic photochemistry using laser flash photolysis which resulted in four publications and two poster presentations. He also received three teaching awards from the department, school and TIAA-CREF for his efforts. Kung is now a
member of the faculty at the United States Naval Academy and is applying to medical school in the fall.
Rev. D. Scott Weimer Kansas ’76
Weimer was named one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians by Georgia Trend magazine. The list includes individuals who wield influence in business, government, politics, public policy, education, the judiciary and other areas that impact every aspect of every Georgian’s daily life. Since 1997, Weimer has ministered to the historic North Avenue Presbyterian Church. With a membership of some 1,000 congregants, the Church plays an active role in caring for Atlanta’s homeless. Weimer serves as moderator for the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, emphasizing missions as he works to unite 110 churches. David H. Soskin, Knox ’64 was elected to the Board of Trustees of Knox College. A marketing and communications expert, Soskin is president and CEO of David Soskin Associates Inc., a private equity and marketing consulting company. Formerly, he was senior vice president of SFN Companies and of Scott Foresman, Silver Burdett and South-Western publishing companies. Soskin has taught publishing and direct marketing at the business schools of Harvard, Columbia and New York University. He has also served Knox as a member of the college’s Business Advisory Council.
Lt. Col. Todd S. Desgrosseilliers
W. Grant Gregory Nebraska ’63
LPGA and establishing goals and policies for the operation of the LPGA. Gregory is the retired chairman of Touche Ross (now Deloitte & Touche) and is an authority on Corporate Governance and mergers and acquisitions. He has served on numerous boards including AMBAC Inc., MCI and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Research Advisory Board. Gregory is an avid outdoorsman and resides in Greenwich, Conn., and Buffalo, Wyo., with his wife Karen and their three children. Larry D. Johnson, Nebraska ’67 has been named Assistant SecretaryGeneral for Legal Affairs by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan. Formerly, Johnson served as the legal advisor of the International Atomic Energy Agency and Chief of Cabinet for the Office of the President of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Prior to this position, Johnson was professor of Global Affairs at New York University’s Center for Global Affairs. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the American Society of International Law and the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Upon graduation from Nebraska, Johnson received his J.D. degree from Harvard Law School and his MPA from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.
Douglas M. Oldham Northwestern ’01
Maine ’85
Marine Lt. Col. Todd S. Desgrosseilliers, Maine ‘85 is congratulated on his Silver Star by his father, Edward D. Desgrosseilliers.
Desgrosseilliers was awarded the Silver Star for his actions in Iraq. He earned the honor while leading a task force of some 100 Marines in Fallujah. During two separate battles, Desgrosseilliers risked his life to save other soldiers from insurgents’ attacks. The Silver Star is the third-highest combat decoration the military awards to soldiers.
Joseph J. Shy Jr., Missouri ’44 was inducted into the University of Missouri’s Hall of Fame. Arguably the fastest of the track team in his day, Shy proved it during his three years on the track team at Missouri. In 1942, he tied the World’s record in the 60-yard low hurdles with a time of 6.9 seconds. In 1943, Shy beat the reigning National Champion Hal Davis of California in the 220-yard dash, earning a spot on the All-American track team. When asked once about his hurdling form, Shy replied, “Terrible,” then smiled and added, “but I was pretty quick between them.” The Hall of Fame recognizes and honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the achievements and prestige of the University of Missouri in the field of athletics, and who have continued to demonstrate in their lives, the values imparted by intercollegiate athletics. W. Grant Gregory, Nebraska ’63 was elected by the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour membership as an independent director on the LPGA Board of Directors. He will fill a newly-established fifth independent director seat and serve a three-year term. The LPGA Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the business of the
Douglas M. Oldham, Northwestern ’01 announced the opening of his new photographic art gallery at www.dmogalleries.com. The gallery, which contains more than 500 photos, is part of Oldham’s ongoing effort to photograph every inch of Chicago. The stylish website allows the user to view and purchase photos from categories including churches and temples, water and Navy Pier. Oldham encourages visitors to browse the site and check back often, as he hopes to double the number of photos in the coming months.
Thomas W. Brennaman Ohio ’86
Brennaman was selected as the lead play-byplay announcer for Fox coverage of the Bowl Championship Series in 2007. He will announce the BCS championship game and one additional bowl game. Brennaman has called
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the Cotton Bowl for the past seven years for Fox and the baseball playoffs for the past six years. He is also the play-by-play announcer for the Arizona Diamondbacks local games. Brennaman is the son of Hall of Fame Cincinnati Reds announcer Marty Brennaman.
Paul D. Garofolo Ohio ’80
Garofolo is entering his fifth season as president and general manager of the Cleveland Force soccer team. The Cleveland Force is a member of the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) and competes against teams including the California Cougars and Baltimore Blast. Garofolo also serves as president of Signature Sports and Marketing, Inc. He has some 20 years experience in sports marketing, athlete representation and event management. Garofolo is also a founding partner in the new International Basketball League and serves on the Board of North American Sports Camps. Thomas D. Grant, Oregon ’68 has released his latest jazz album, Side By Side, the 21st since he started recording in 1976. Grant has performed for thousands over the years in venues ranging from large concert halls in Europe to bars in his hometown of Portland. In 1997, he was named a Steinway artist, an international distinction generally reserved for classical artists; Grant was the first jazz musician from the Northwest to be honored. He also started his own record label, “Nuwrinkle” in 2001. Recently he has recorded a song for Oregon Public Broadcasting and eventually would like to provide music for features films. Brian L. Boardman, Rhode Island ’91 was appointed to the Board of Trustees for Rutgers School of Business CRM Research Center. Previously, he was the director of alliances for Accenture’s CRM practice with responsibilities across the Americas. Prior to joining Accenture, Boardman was the director of product marketing at Siebel Systems. A founding member of Epsilon Chi, Boardman continues to be involved with the Chapter where they are about to embark on a capital campaign to establish the Chapter’s permanent home.
Joseph Burns San Diego ’07
Burns was named Greek Man of the Year at the University of San Diego. The award criteria include academic excellence, chapter leadership, Greek system leadership, campus leadership, contributions to Greek life on campus and character. The recipients were chosen by a panel of administrators who interviewed each nominee. Burns serves his chapter as the alumni relations chairman and treasurer, as well as holding leadership positions within the NROTC, Institute of Industrial Engineers and Alpha Pi Mu. He is also involved with University Ministry and the Intramural Sports program. Robert Adams, Tennessee ’87 was recently named chief financial officer of Nashville CARES, Tennessee’s largest HIV/AIDS services organization. Adams has been with the organization since 1992. As CFO, he is responsible for all financial oversight as well as direction of the major insurance claims processing operation. Prior to joining Nashville
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The Beta Theta Pi
Robert Adams Tennessee ’87
CARES, Adams worked with the United Way of Metropolitan Nashville as a fund distribution associate. Adams is active in community organizations including membership on several committees of the Ryan White Community AIDS Partnership of Middle Tennessee.
Duane J. Covey Washington ’76
Covey was named a principal with the Jones Financial Companies LLLP. He is one of only 54 individuals chosen from more than 32,000 world-wide to join the firm’s 262 principals. Covey is an Edward Jones investment representative in Seattle, where he serves as a regional leader overseeing some 50 investment representatives. In addition to his role as regional leader, Covey has also served as a mentor and mentor trainer. On several occasions, he has traveled to Edward Jones’ home office to help train and advise new investment representatives. Covey and his wife Debbie have three children.
MArk A. Barteau
Washington in St. Louis ’76 Barteau was elected to the prestigious National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Barteau was selected for his distinguished work in advancing the fundamental understanding of surface chemical-reaction mechanisms and for the design and invention of new catalysts. He joins 76 new U.S. members and nine foreign associates. Barteau serves as the University of Delaware’s Robert L. Pigford Chair of Chemical Engineering and chairperson of the Department of Chemical Engineering. NAE membership is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer, honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to engineering research, practice or education.
David R. Peterson Western Ontario ’64
Peterson was named the University of Toronto’s 32nd chancellor. The chairman of the Toronto law firm of Cassels Brock and Blackwell LLP and former premier of Ontario will succeed Vivienne Poy as chancellor effective July 1. The chancellor is the ceremonial head of the University, presiding at convocations and playing an ambassadorial role in advancing the University. Since 1999, Peterson has been an active member on the University’s Governing Council. He also serves on a number of other non-profit and corporate boards and speaks often on national and international issues.
[Alumni News] Fraternity and Foundation Boards Receive Texas-Sized Welcome
Wright recognized Dallas/Fort Worth Beta Alumni Club President Pax Glenn, North Carolina ’58 and Secretary/Treasurer Tom McCasland, Oklahoma ’56 for their volunteer efforts in rallying such an enthusiastic alumni group in the great city of Dallas. “I am happy to officially announce that the Fraternity’s 2008 General Convention will be held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Dallas,” added Wright. Board members presented Fraternal 50 pins to alumni who have been members for more than 50 years, as well as Silver Seals to those with 25 years of membership. Foundation Chairman Tom Hook, Miami ’81 noted, “The Beta Theta Pi Foundation is charged with supporting the educational and leadership development goals of our General Fraternity.” He continued, “Led by a 12-person board of directors, it is our responsibility to secure and manage the financial resources that will provide for the critical leadership training of Beta’s 6,000+ undergraduates and 1,000+ volunteers.”
General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63 (left) was presented a Stetson hat by Advisory Council member, Jim McMullen, Texas ’54.
More than 200 Betas and guests gathered at the Dallas Country Club Saturday evening, February 11th, to celebrate Beta Theta Pi and meet the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors. Board members welcomed alumni from 44 chapters at the Dallas/Fort Worth Area Beta Alumni Appreciation Dinner.
Bert Bates, Missouri ’49, who serves as chairman of Upon These Principles: A Campaign for Every Beta, shared the Fraternity’s progress toward its goal of raising $15 million. Noting that pledges and gifts totaling $10.4 million had been received thus far. Bates suggested, “It takes resources to do purposeful things. Hopefully, you’ll be pleased with our plan to prepare an even better Fraternity for our young leaders of the future.” Foundation Board Member and Dallas-native Jim Ellis, Missouri ’55 concluded the evening’s program by presenting each Beta with a small token of the General Fraternity’s appreciation: a copy of the newly-edited Son of the Stars pledge manual. All Beta Sweethearts in attendance received a Beta Rose in honor of Valentine’s Day.
“I know I speak for all of the General Fraternity’s leadership when I extend my most sincere gratitude for the warmth and fellowship that you have extended us during our visit to your home city,” offered General Fraternity President P. Thomas (Tom) Purinton, Kansas State ’63. “I’d also like to recognize Stuart Reeves, Oklahoma State ’61 and his wife Jennie for welcoming us to Dallas and for hosting us in their home last night,” said Purinton, who was presented with a beautiful Stetson hat by Advisory Council member and Texas-native, Jim McMullen, Texas ’54. Beta Theta Pi’s Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors held meetings over the weekend at the Hilton Dallas/Park Cities. “Ultimately, both Boards have one main objective,” said General Secretary David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67, “to make our General Fraternity an organization of purpose, relevance and support to all Beta chapters across North America. We will not be satisfied until every chapter has the resources necessary to succeed.”
Dallas/Fort Worth Beta Alumni Club Secretary/Treasurer Tom McCasland, Oklahoma ’56 (center) and his wife Phyllis chat with General Fraternity Vice President Marty Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68.
Join us for our 39th Annual
BETA STEAKOUT & GOLF OUTING
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
“… You’ll feel a kind of something warm your marrow thro’ and thro’…” Tee Time:
Noon (must arrive by 11:45 a.m.)
Tam O’Shanter Country Club, 5055 Hills & Dales Ave NW, Canton, Ohio
Join your Beta Brothers for 18 holes, cart included, on the Hills Course
Steakout Time: 5:00 p.m.
The Pavilion, Lake Cable Club House, 5725 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, Ohio
Enjoy a juicy steak, fresh corn on the cob, garden salad and refreshments. Share Beta “war stories,” pass the Loving Cup; sing a Beta song or two… (Bring Beta songbook and mug; Fraternal Fifities wear your pin!)
Direct questions or map requests to Rod Kirkendal: jrodk@wilkshire.net or (330) 602-3147 Spring 2006
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Answering the call of principled leadership The second annual Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy — held January 20-22 in Oxford, Ohio — was an inspiring success for Beta Theta Pi’s undergraduate leaders. The event provided an opportunity for all chapter and colony presidents to travel to the founding site of the Fraternity and learn how to design a framework for chapter success, become more capable and effective leaders and set personal goals related to their chapter. Most importantly, the presidents were skillfully facilitated to speak openly and honestly with each other about their hopes, fears and aspirations. To gain greater insight into the significance, value and effect of the program, four presidents were selected to chronicle their individual experiences before, during and after the Academy. Great care was given to select presidents from different regions, institution types, ages and chapter experiences to give a varied perspective of the event. Here is their account of the 2006 Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy.
Andrew A. (Drew) Lebed, Columbia ’06 Previous Offices: philanthropy chairman, recruitment chairman Chapter Designation: Alpha Alpha Colony Founded: 1881 Members: 38 Chapter GPA: 3.44 How prepared do you feel to lead your chapter as president? Owens – “I feel well prepared to take on the upcoming year. It is amazing how many things you deal with as president of a fraternity, and after serving for a year, you start to get the feeling that you have seen just about everything.” Lebed – “I guess you could say that I’m ready for the job in two ways: first, I know what Beta is; second, my record of service has earned me the respect of my brothers.” What is your biggest fear as president? Avilla - “I fear that I will be the one in charge when something bad happens. I also fear that I will not live up to the expectations of my peers and my Fraternity.” Divanfard - “If I lost the respect of my brothers. A leader without respect has no followers, and is no leader at all.” Lebed - “I was scared that my brothers would soon discover that I was not the leader they thought I was. I feared that I was all talk.” Owens - “I think my biggest fear at this point will be keeping the energy up. We have had a phenomenal year, and I would like to see us build upon that.”
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The Beta Theta Pi
Ali Rashid-Divanfard, Puget Sound ’08 Previous Office: None Chapter Designation: Delta Epsilon Founded: 1962 Members: 39 Chapter GPA: 3.04
For the following sessions: What happened? What was your reaction to the session? What did you learn to help you as president of your chapter? Beta’s Organizational Structure (Friday, 3pm)
This session aimed to give a brief history of Beta Theta Pi and to analyze how the expectations of an ideal president are supported by the organization’s constituents. Avilla – “This was a great start to the whole academy. This session was about what Beta is and what every chapter should be. It reinforced the ideal of Beta Theta Pi, reminding me of what we are as a Fraternity and what we should strive to always be.” Lebed – “It is good to see the whole picture – the whole web that can be put in place to support a healthy chapter.” Presidential Type (Friday, 6:15pm)
Presidents discussed self-awareness and its effect on being a chapter president, examining these concepts through the Myers-Briggs Type indicator. Lebed – “This activity suggests that different personalities each have their own benefits and drawbacks.” Divanfard – “I learned about the fundamental errors most
Julian D. (JD) Avilla, Cal. State-Chico ’07 Previous Office: None Chapter Designation: Epsilon Iota Founded: 1987 Members: 43 Chapter GPA: 2.55
chapter presidents make.” The Academy of Leadership (Friday, 8:15pm)
This one-on-one conversation engaged participants in dialogue focused on the true meaning of the Fraternity and issues of linking leadership with Beta Theta Pi’s values. Avilla – “I absolutely loved this session. The questions posed by Dipper [Dr. Donald G. DiPaolo, Michigan ’78] made you think deeply on the experiences of being president of a chapter. This really forced me to think about my position and what I needed to and should be doing.” Owens – “It was refreshing to actually talk about the issues that face our chapters. There are a lot of them, and they go far beyond the buzz words “hazing” and “alcohol.” Presidential Leadership 101 (Saturday, 8:30am)
This session analyzed how the leadership of an ideal chapter president relates to the leadership of previous American Presidents. Avilla – “We were each given an American President to read about and argue what made him a good president and successful leader. I learned that by holding true to your values, you
Joshua D. (Josh) Owens, Wabash ’07 Previous Offices: secretary, president Chapter Designation: Tau Founded: 1846 Members: 66 Chapter GPA: 2.88
may not always be the popular one, but in the long run will be the right one.” True Self Governance (Saturday, 1:30pm)
This session defined the concept of “self-governance” and how it affects the Fraternity’s performance and provided methods to foster higher levels of self-governance. Avilla – “You may have accountability issues, problems with alcohol, grades, a dirty chapter house, and no matter the problem it can be brought back to one main theme; little knowledge/value of the ritual. I learned that I can and should always go back to the ritual when I have questions about handling a situation.” The Art of Facilitation (Saturday, 3:00pm)
Presidents studied the basics of facilitating discussions and practiced in small groups. Lebed – “I liked this section because it helped me think critically about my role in chapter debates. Perhaps my role has more to do with learning how to elicit the true nature of my chapter’s problems from the chapter itself, and then coax the answers out of the members themselves.”
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The Crucible of Leadership (Saturday, 9pm)
Following the playing of a 911 call from a fraternity-related death, presidents discussed their important roles and their “crucibles of leadership” in an open forum. Lebed – “Both [Dipper’s] first and second night events took us to a new level of introspection about ourselves as leaders. These events were about honesty. As presidents we have to have the courage and the maturity to protect ourselves and our brothers from making bad — sometimes even fatal — decisions.” Avilla – “Think about a time that you had to make a difficult decision, event or time that you could call a fork in the road of life. That is what the Crucible of Leadership session got you to think about. What would be your crucible and how are you going to face that challenge as president?”
Avilla – “I feel extremely ready to lead my chapter. All of the information that I took in over this short weekend has answered many of my questions to what I will be facing as president of my chapter.” Lebed - “I feel rejuvenated in terms of my motivation level. I’m ready to do the job.” Owens – “This is the type of leadership training that can have a huge impact on presidents and their chapters.” What is the greatest asset you gained/learned? Avilla – “Self-confidence. I have more faith in myself to be president and to lead my chapter to where it should be.” Divanfard – “I saw that in the short weeks of my presidency prior to CPLA I had already made some of the same critical errors that destroy the greatest of leaders.” Lebed – “I can no longer be the do-everything guy. The way I got to be president is not the way I should be president.”
Owens - “This was a great addition to the program [since last year.] The panel had some great insight and the whole thing felt like it was solid, real world education and leadership training.”
What would you like future presidents to know? Avilla – “This is an incredible experience. I had no idea what to expect when coming to this. I now have a greater understanding of my position, an immense amount of self-confidence and a greater love for this Fraternity. Do yourself a favor and come to The Presidents Academy. It is something that you will wish your whole chapter could go through.”
My Commitment for the Future (Sunday, 10am)
Divanfard – “No great changes ever come easy. Have confidence in your decisions, analyze the problem from every angle and make the right choice. Be the man you want to be remembered as.”
Lebed – “I liked this event a lot because I feel one of the shortcomings of earlier Beta leadership opportunities was their complete focus on values as opposed to practical action. I’m glad leadership development opportunities are starting to address this essential bridging of the two.”
Owens – “This event helps guys ‘get it.’ It helps guys get that our chapters need attention and work. Fraternity men, especially Betas, have a great core, but we have to get rid of the noise that distracts others from seeing it.”
Presidents set tangible personal and chapter goals to better align themselves and their chapters with the values and principles of Beta Theta Pi.
The Beta Theta Pi
Presidents Academy?
A Built to Last Movement (Sunday, 8am)
This session connected presidents with key leaders in the Greek movement through a panel discussion challenging participants to critically apply the philosophies of Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras.
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Do you feel more prepared to lead your chapter after The
The 2007 Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy will be held in Oxford, Ohio, January 19-21.
East Carolina’s Reverence for the Stars
East Carolina undergraduates, alumni and guests.
The Epsilon Alpha Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at East Carolina University officially received its charter during a special re-installation ceremony, February 25. Held at the Brook Valley Country Club in Greenville, N.C., the festivities took place under the watchful eye of Event Chairman Jacob D. Tidwell ’04. “During the 166th General Convention last August, our colony was once again given the honor of holding the title of Chapter,” offered Tidwell. Originally chartered in 1983, the Chapter was recolonized in the fall of 2002 after a multi-year absence from the campus. “These high caliber men came to Beta Theta Pi with values that perfectly matched what it meant to be Men of Principle — they were ahead of the curve,” offered former General Fraternity vice president and East Carolina alumnus, D. Kirk Little ’82. With several dedicated alumni and many proud parents present, Assistant District Chief Daniel L.G. Roy ’04 welcomed several honored guests including General Fraternity President P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63 and General Fraternity Editor Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98. Following the meal, former colony president Justin B. Buchanan ’06 offered a brief history, stating, “On February 15, 2003, brothers from the Zeta Upsilon Chapter at the College of William and Mary initiated 18 Founding Fathers. Since then, we have initiated nearly 50 men who have proven that they too share our reverence for the stars.” The charter was presented to Chapter President Matthew G. Levtzow ’07 by General Fraternity President Purinton, who also delivered a stirring keynote address. East Carolina Executive Officers (left-right) In closing his remarks, Purinton proclaimed, “The bar with General Fraternity President Tom Purinton (center): Treasurer Marcus Walters ’08, President is being raised and all of these wonderful things are happening in the world of Beta Theta Pi because of the Matthew Levtzow ’07, Vice President Matthew vision of idealistic men who believe in the veracity of Smith ’06 and Secretary Robert Olson ’07 our Principles.” – T. Olver
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Indiana’s Heritage Preserved
Indiana undergraduates, alumni and guests.
Founded in 1845, the Pi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi was the first fraternity at Indiana University. Unfortunately, in 2001 the men of Pi wavered and the chapter closed. By September 2003, a new group of men set forth to redefine the level of performance for Indiana fraternities and re-colonized the Pi Chapter. The Installation banquet held on February 18, 2006 at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, Indiana, was recognition of that new level of performance. The Installation banquet celebrated the reinstatement of Pi Chapter featuring the presentation of the charter by General Fraternity Vice President W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 to Chapter President Kyle Webb, Indiana ’07. More than 150 chapter members, alumni and guests attended, including Administrative Secretary Stephen B. Becker, Florida ’69 and keynote speaker Dean of Students Richard N. McKaig. Becker noted, “Since 1845, Pi has had a distinguished presence at IU and we are extremely pleased that its heritage has resumed.” Highlights of the evening, hosted by Master of Ceremonies and former Chapter President J. Matthew Goar ’07, included recognition and words of encouragement from Pi alumni, an 80-man rendition of Beta songs, Marching Along and I Took My Girl Out Walking and a night of dancing with Beta sweethearts and guests. The Pi Chapter continues to press on in restoring itself to a place of prominence at Indiana University. Every member is involved in campus or community activities, a full advisory team mentors the undergraduate officers, the Chapter consistently tops fraternities in grades and the Heritage of Pi Campaign aims to build a $2.8 million chapter house. Dean McKaig remarked, “These are noteworthy accomplishments befitting the return of IU’s oldest fraternity to our campus.” — M. Hill
Chapter Counselor Charlie McCormick ‘72 with Pi President Kyle Webb ‘07
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The Beta Theta Pi
Mississippi’s Triumphant Return
Mississippi undergraduates, alumni and guests.
The Beta Beta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at the University of Mississippi, originally chartered in 1879, has a storied past filled with remarkable achievements and distinguished leaders. Notable alumni include John C. Satterfield ’32, who served as president of the American Bar Association (1961-62); former U.S. Congressman Jamie L. Whitten ’33; former U.S. Congressman Frank E. Smith ’41, and former Mississippi Governor Raymond E. Mabus Jr. ’69. Beta Beta Chapter has provided Mississippi and the nation with many other distinguished governmental officials, attorneys, physicians, educators, clergymen, engineers and business leaders. From 1964 to 1970, the Chapter produced a Marshall Scholar, four Fulbright Scholars and a Woodrow Wilson Fellow. Following an 11-year process of bringing Beta Beta back to Ole Miss, nearly 200 undergraduates, alumni, parents and friends gathered in the elegant upper room of the Oxford (Miss.) University Club to celebrate the Chapter’s triumphant return. “The undergraduate members of Beta Beta Chapter have compiled an enviable record that reflects the finest traditions of the chapter,” offered James A. Peden Jr. ’66. Under the careful direction of Installation Chairman Chase A. Welch ’07, the brothers — dressed in black tails and white ties — listened intently as General Fraternity Vice President David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 challenged them to be the next Renaissance men.
Beta Beta Chapter President Jack Wier ’07 with Former General Secretary Jerry Blesch, Centre ’60
In his keynote address, former General Secretary and Installing Officer Jerry M. Blesch, Centre ’60 offered, “I’m proud of the chapter . . . what it stands for and where it is going.” Blesch presented the charter to Chapter President Jack M. Wier ’07. Seven members of The Beta Chorus added to the grace and style of the event, singing four songs in impressive four-part harmony. — T. Olver
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Pilot Keystone Conferen In 2004, chapter presidents and volunteers overwhelmingly identified the need for high-quality regional officer and advisor training. Two years later, the Fraternity answered the call with two pilot Keystone Regional Leadership Conferences.
General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63 with Barney Calame, Missouri ’61.
St. Louis The Midwest Keystone, held February 17-19 at the St. Louis Frontenac Hilton, had more than 200 participants from 25 chapters and colonies. The keynote address was given by Byron E. (Barney) Calame, Missouri ’61 focusing on his experiences in leadership and accountability as a chapter president, standing up for integrity and his remarkable career as a journalist. “I really believe this Keystone concept is on to something,” remarked Calame. “It is so good, so practical and so real.” The Midwest award winners were: Recruitment award – Nebraska Leadership Development award – Minnesota Self-Governance award – Truman State Member Education award – Nebraska Outstanding Regional Friend of Beta – Dr. Robert Tigner (Truman State) Outstanding Regional Beta Volunteer – Van Brokaw, Wesleyan ’60 Outstanding Regional Advisory Team – Iowa
St. Louis
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The Beta Theta Pi
Held in St. Louis (February 17-19) and Seattle (February 24-26), the Keystones were a high quality, regional education experience focusing on chapter officer development, principled leadership and volunteer training. While Beta Theta Pi offers other values-based leadership opportunities, this was the first to target chapter officers with specific operational concepts. “You can contemplate the ‘why’ on a mountain top,” remarked Leadership Development Advisor Donald G. (Dipper) DiPaolo, Michigan ’78, “Keystone is the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ for Beta Theta Pi.” The curriculum for these pilot programs focused on personal leadership, managing conflict and maintaining an effective team dynamic among chapter executive officers. Similarly, chapter advisors participated in respective officer tracks as well as an Advisory Team Conference. “Once again Beta was blessed with talented facilitation teams that consisted of each area’s top Beta Volunteers and Friends of Beta,” offered Director of Leadership Development Ryan E. King, Southern Illinois ’01. Thirty-six chapters participated in Keystone (25 in the Midwest and 11 in the Northwest), including chapters outside of the designated regions (Cincinnati, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Southern Illinois, Texas Tech and Toronto.) The Keystones provided an opportunity for chapter executive teams to learn, discuss and set goals together. Many presidents felt that Keystone provided a great opportunity to develop a unified front with their executive teams. The officer tracks allowed each position to be specific about individual responsibilities, rather than simply theory-based conversation. The large group sessions challenged everyone to have tough conversations in an open and constructive manner.
nces Successful The conferences also served as tremendous opportunities for fellowship, recognition and outreach to local alumni. Saturday evening for both Keystones featured banquets and entertainment for all participants. Chapters were presented with regional awards and alumni were recognized as Fraternal Fifties and Fraternal Twenty-fives. Participants enjoyed updates on the state of the Fraternity from General Secretary David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67, as well as keynote addresses by prominent local alumni. Overall, the pilot Keystone Regional Leadership Conferences were a tremendous success — filling a void in officer and advisor training and fanning the flame of principled leadership in two regions of the United States and Canada. “The Keystone experience is all about aligning chapter leadership with the three great principles, pulling together the missing piece in bringing Beta back to her founding principles,” offered General Secretary David Wright. “For Keystone to achieve its full potential, the quality of our chapters needs to become more consistent,” added King. “Keystone should not be seen as a quick fix for our struggling chapters, but a means to support the fundamental policies, decisions and educational efforts needed to improve the quality of every Beta chapter.” After months of research and preparation, Beta Theta Pi finally has a regional programming model consistent with the other leadership development programs of the Fraternity. Although there is still much to perfect as this program grows over the next few years, Keystone Regional Leadership Conferences have provided the missing component in the Fraternity’s effort to serve Beta undergraduates and volunteers at the highest level.
Blake Nordstrom, Washington ’82 begins his keynote address.
Seattle
The Northwest Keystone, held February 24-26 at the SeattleTacoma Airport Marriott, hosted more than 130 participants from 11 chapters. The keynote address was given by Blake Nordstrom, Washington ’82 focusing on his experience as CEO of Nordstrom, creating ownership by employees and franchise branches, and maintaining simple organizational priorities to keep on track. “True success is measured in health, family and friends,” offered Nordstrom. “Beta Theta Pi offers a conduit for that.” The Northwest award winners were: Keystone Recruitment award – Colorado Mines Keystone Leadership Development award – Utah Keystone Self-Governance award – Colorado Mines Keystone Member Education award – Eastern Washington Outstanding Regional Friend of Beta – Dominic Greene (Washington) Outstanding Regional Beta Volunteer – Roger Aldrich, Washington State ’70 Outstanding Regional Advisory Team – Washington State
Given the overwhelming response to the Keystone Conferences, this program will likely expand to other regions of Beta Theta Pi’s broad domain in 2007.
Seattle
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T O R O CANAD T O June 29 - July 2, 2006
Owen S. Williams Toronto ’50 Shepardson Award Honoree
The General Fraternity Board of Trustees developed the Francis W. Shepardson award in May 2001 to recognize brothers who embody the spirit and dedication of Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882/Brown 1883, and epitomize the concept of lifelong service to the Fraternity. This prestigious honor will be bestowed upon Owen S. Williams, Toronto ’50, at the Beta Centennial Celebration: Commemorating 100 years of Beta Theta Pi in Canada on Wednesday evening. Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Beta Theta Pi Foundation of Canada, Williams was chapter counselor to Theta Zeta (Toronto) for more than 25 years and has been president of the chapter house corporation since 1976. He served as chief of District IV (1963-67) and is a former treasurer and president of the Theta Zeta Alumni Association. In addition to serving on the Beta Theta Pi Foundation Board (1995-2002), Williams was vice president of two Beta General Conventions and chaired the 50th, 75th and 90th Theta Zeta anniversary banquets.
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The Beta Theta Pi
William A. Etherington John N.W. Turner Western Ontario ’63
British Columbia ’49
Chairman of the Board for the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Bill Etherington is a professional company director who has served on the board of a number of institutions since retiring from a long and successful international business career. He retired from IBM in September 2001 as senior vice president and group executive, sales and distribution as well as Chairman and CEO, IBM World Trade Corporation responsible for IBM’s global sales and operations in more than 160 countries. Etherington has an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree and a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from the University of Western Ontario.
The Right Honourable John N.W. Turner, succeeded Pierre Trudeau to become the 17th Prime Minister of Canada in 1984. He was first elected to the House of Commons in 1962, and throughout the 1960s and 70s, served as Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs, Minister of Justice and Minister of Finance. Turner was Leader of the Opposition 198490, retiring from politics in 1993 to return to the practice of law. He is a member of various boards for several large Canadian companies. Turner was the fourth person to receive the Fraternity’s Oxford Cup (February 1986), the first Canadian so honored.
Brennan J. Corey
P. Thomas Purinton
Loving Cup Luncheon Speaker
Prayer Breakfast Speaker
Centennial Celebration Speaker
A
Toronto ’07
Brennan Corey was elected president of the Theta Zeta chapter at the University of Toronto in December 2005. He is a graduate of the 2006 Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy and participated in the inaugural Keystone Regional Leadership Conference, held in St. Louis in February. A former chapter vice president and recruitment chairman, Corey was a participant in last summer’s Peter F. Greiner Leadership College at the 167th General Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Welcoming Banquet Speaker
Kansas State ’63
General Fraternity President Tom Purinton is professor emeritus of anatomy in the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. After completing his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State in 1965, he interned at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital, followed by studies in veterinary anatomy and clinical neurology and earning his Ph.D. from Minnesota. Purinton has served as the Fraternity’s commissioner for volunteer development and chapter counselor for the Epsilon Epsilon chapter. He has facilitated multiple Advisory Team Conferences and served as a small group facilitator for a session of The Institute for Men of Principle each year since its inception in 1999.
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Canadian Chapters
1931
Toronto Founded 1906
As four undergraduate friends returned to the University of Toronto in 1904, one set his sights on forming a new fraternity. There were already fraternities in existence on the Toronto campus, but they were not what William Ernest Bristol Moore, Toronto 1906 was looking for in fraternal life. He invited his three close friends to join him, and the Theta Zeta Society was formed. The men drew up an oath and the membership grew to 34 members. Theta Zeta decided to seek out a major international fraternity to affiliate with and chose Beta Theta Pi. At the time, Beta Theta Pi lacked Canadian affiliation, but there had been some talk of placing a chapter at McGill University. Beta Theta Pi’s reputation for quality was more than likely the key factor for the Theta Zeta Society to seek affiliation. The group was granted permission to petition for a charter in 1905, and at the 67th General Convention the following year, the Theta Zeta Society received its charter. The formal installation banquet took place in Buffalo, N.Y., in November 1906, and the Theta Zeta Society of the University of Toronto became the Theta Zeta chapter of Beta Theta Pi. The charter was officially presented by William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1879. As the Chapter returned to the Toronto campus, it would be closely watched, as its success or failure would determine whether Beta Theta Pi would consider further expansion into Canada. The Chapter grew quickly and the members moved in and out of several houses, finally finding the “ideal fraternity house” in the fall of 1913. By the beginning of 1914, the groundwork had been laid and Theta Zeta had achieved a promising start, with a total initiated membership of 94 undergraduates. The first great time of crisis came in August of 1914 when the “Great War” broke out in Europe. Canada’s imperial links with Great Britain led to immediate involvement and the Chapter at Toronto found itself with a shrinking undergraduate membership. The General Fraternity demonstrated the Beta ideals of brotherhood and mutual assistance and the Theta Zeta house at Toronto was able to be kept open during the war. The immediate postwar years presented their problems, but they were overcome and a revitalized chapter made up for the time lost during the war years. The 1925, 1927, 1929 and 1931 General Conventions were held in Canada. Although there were times of celebration, additional burdens arrived during World War II. Fortunately, Theta Zeta was able to remain financially stable, and entered into an era filled with optimism and Beta spirit. Social functions and scholastics were equally important for the members who were interested in attracting pledges of high quality. The Chapter experienced few problems until 1964 when the University served the Theta Zeta chapter house a notice of intent to expropriate. At this time, the University did not recognize fraternities and Theta Zeta was forced to find new housing. In October 1969, the members moved into their new house, nicknamed “the castle” due to its medieval English look. A decline in membership and lack of alumni support caused worry among the General Fraternity in the 1970s. Not all was lost, as there were always a few who were inspired by the principles of the Fraternity. By the mid-1970s, the Chapter was making strides towards returning to its former glory. For its 75th Anniversary in 1981, Theta Zeta welcomed a celebration with hundreds of brothers from Canada and America. The General Convention in 1988 was held in Toronto, and the Chapter was delighted to be hosting Betas from all corners of North America. Throughout the 1990s membership continued to climb until reaching some 50 members worthy of the Beta badge. Theta Zeta is a proud chapter, ready to celebrate its 100th Anniversary and 100 years of Beta Theta Pi in Canada this summer.
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The Beta Theta Pi
1986
British Columbia Founded 1936
The expansion of Beta Theta Pi at the University of British Columbia was a combination of hard work and determination of a group of young men and one special Beta alumnus. The Gamma Omicron chapter arose from a previous local fraternity, Sigma Alpha Phi. Recognized by the University in the spring of 1926, Sigma Alpha Phi was similar to several established Beta chapters in the fact that it drew its membership from an intramural team: the rugby football team. It also emphasized both high achievements in sports and in the classroom. During the approximately five years of its independence, Sigma Alpha Phi established itself on campus through prominent positions in the University community, excellent academic results and growing membership. Sigma Alpha Phi’s founding caught the attention of Dr. Gordon Burke, Washington ’09, who would be come known as “the Pater of Gamma Omicron.” A loyal and devoted Beta, Burke began correspondence in the fall of 1926 with his home chapter to gain interest in the young men at British Columbia. Strong persistence helped to reverse the sentiment against Canadian expansion throughout the officers and leaders of the Fraternity and at the 1936 General Convention, a charter was granted. On October 23, 1936, 52 young men became the “Alpha” class of Gamma Omicron. In May 1945, the Chapter acquired its first new house. The 25th Anniversary was celebrated on November 25, 1961 with hundreds of Betas in attendance. The next decade proved difficult; an increasingly vague sense of direction grew among the Chapter. However, difficulties were overcome with determination. The celebration of the 40th Anniversary in 1976 created a renewed sense of Beta spirit which carried the Chapter through to its 50th Anniversary. A beautiful new house and a re-assessed risk management plan is helping to lead Gamma Omicron toward the celebration of its 70th Anniversary in the fall.
FACTS: Toronto is home to the CN Tower, the world’s tallest building standing 1,815 feet tall. Canada is the world’s second largest country in land mass with Russia being first. Canada has six time zones. Canada has two official languages: English and French. The capital city of Canada is Ottawa, ON. The largest city is Toronto and is the capital of the Province of Ontario.
1951
Western Ontario Founded 1952
The Delta Alpha chapter at the University of Western Ontario was granted its charter during the General Convention in 1952. However, its beginnings date back to 1932 when a group of chemistry students met at the University to discuss forming an honor science fraternity. They drafted a rough constitution, adopted a motto, “Knowledge Through Science” and chose a name, Kappa Tau Sigma. By 1949, the group decided it would be better off as a chapter of a major fraternity. The president of the University recommended that the men approach Beta Theta Pi. Friendship quickly grew between the Theta Zeta chapter at the University of Toronto and Kappa Tau Sigma. They immediately identified with the high standards and achievements Beta Theta Pi held for its Chapters. The men began the process of petitioning in 1950. A unanimous vote granted the charter during the 113th General Convention in 1952 and the men became the Delta Alpha chapter. Formal installation followed, initiating 16 undergraduates and 16 alumni. The motto, “The Mighty Brotherhood,” perfectly described the strong sense of brotherhood which had helped the men of Kappa Tau Sigma exist independently for 20 years.
Canada has 10 provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan and three territories: Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon Territory. Canada has a prime minister and the Parliament is comprised of the House of Commons and the Senate.
Throughout the next eight years, Delta Alpha won many scholastic and chapter awards, upholding Beta’s high standards. During the 1960s, 70s and 80s, the Chapter encountered problems, as well as celebrations and victories. One celebration included the purchase of a new chapter house at 304 Princess Avenue. The mid-1980s through mid-1990s brought along many ups and downs as the Chapter gave way to complacency. Suspension of the charter led to a reconstruction of pledge programs and chapter operations. The charter was returned to the Chapter in 1991. Delta Alpha is focusing on the Men of Principle initiative to strengthen brotherhood and intellectual excellence, and implement high standards of moral conduct and responsible citizenship.
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Guelph 1986
FACTS: Many stores and services will accept U.S. currency, but the exchange rate they offer may vary greatly. Since there are no laws enforcing foreign currency rates of exchange, it is recommended that you convert to Canadian funds before you make your purchases. The Canadian $1 coin is called the Loonie, appropriately named for the loon, a Canadian bird, pictured on the coin.
Founded 1986
A major expansion drive made in the 1980s was embraced fully by Jack Geddes, Western Ontario ’54/Toronto ’55. Geddes was serving as the district chief for the Canadian chapters and was looking for a way to draw the Toronto and Western Ontario chapters together. A chapter located between them, Geddes felt, would do just that. There were several universities between the two schools, the University of Guelph being considered the best choice. When Geddes died of a sudden heart attack, the expansion project was placed in the hands of the new district chief, Robert McConnell, Toronto ’79. With the help of local alumni, several Guelph undergraduates were found who had an interest in founding a Beta chapter. In November 1984, 13 young men were pledged and the Beta Theta Pi colony at Guelph was started. Over the next year, the Colony attended numerous functions at the Toronto, Western Ontario, GMI-EMI (now Kettering) and Michigan State chapters and in February 1985, the 13 pledges were officially initiated. A charter was granted in 1986 at the 147th General Convention and formal installation of the Epsilon Zeta chapter of Beta Theta Pi followed in November. The Chapter slowly began establishing itself and in 1990 won its first Sisson award at the General Convention. More awards followed, in addition to large-scale philanthropic events and increased alumni interaction. Unfortunately, tuition costs at the University increased causing decreased enrollment and membership. The Epsilon Zeta chapter was closed in July 2000.
Canada Day is the National Holiday celebrated July 1 (1867.) Canada’s largest national park is the Wood Buffalo National Park (area of 44,800 km sq), created in 1922 and the oldest national park is Banff National Park created in 1885. Niagara Falls is collectively made up of the America, Bridal Veil Falls and Canadian Falls. More than 168,000 cubic feet go over the falls each minute during peak tourist hours.
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The Beta Theta Pi
1987
McGill
Founded 1988
The founders of the Beta colony at McGill University could clearly see the type of fraternity they didn’t want to be by looking at the fraternities already established. Half a dozen major international Greek societies were represented on the campus, and it had been considered an expansion site since the chartering of Toronto in 1906. In the mid-1980s, an expansion team began conducting a two week rush on the McGill campus. A group of 10 pledges was quickly drawn by the long tradition of excellence. Mentored by the members of the Beta Zeta chapter at St. Lawrence, the McGill men continued their pledgeship program and training. On March 16, 1986, the first 10 men of the McGill colony were initiated onto the rolls of Beta Theta Pi. Later that month, the Colony hosted its first Beta Ball, a special and cherished event that would become an annual tradition. In August 1986, two of the men traveled to the General Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz., where they were approved for full colony status. An emphasis was placed on quality, and many of the members were involved in a wide range of sports and services on campus including the IFC. The Colony presented its achievements at the 149th General Convention when the men petitioned for their charter. Their hard work and dedication to excellence paid off and the men became the Epsilon Nu chapter of Beta Theta Pi. In the fall of 1988, the Chapter moved into a new chapter house and won its first Sisson award, one of few first chapters to do so. Four consecutive Sisson awards would follow. However, during the 199394 school year, financial burdens and a change in tone of the Chapter led to the loss of the house and eventually the closure of the Epsilon Nu in August 1996.
Bishop’s Founded 1989
1988
Located in a small town in Quebec, Bishop’s University is a small English language institution in a region that is predominately French. This may be why the Board of Trustees, which was holding its fall meeting in 1986 in Toronto, was surprised to be approached by a group of enthusiastic men interested in becoming a part of Beta Theta Pi. They were led by Philip Walker, who had pledged at Western Ontario before transferring. Sensing their energy and initiative, the men were granted permission to call themselves Bishop’s Provisional Colony and petition for full colony status at the 1987 General Convention. Philanthropic events, scholastics and community relations were first and foremost to establish the idea of fraternity on campus. Soon other Greek organizations would follow. Isolation from other chapters and little financial guidance proved to be difficulties; however, a board of advisors and a counselor offered assistance, along with District Chief Walter Massey II, MIT ’51. At the 150th General Convention, the Colony was granted its charter and in December 1989 a formal installation banquet was held. The young men from Bishop’s became the Epsilon Xi chapter. Despite their enthusiasm, the lack of alumni support and distance would cause increased pressure through the next few years. Increased financial burdens and lack of unity in the Chapter almost caused closure in 1993, but a generous gesture by Owen Williams, Toronto ’50 left the Chapter with a clean financial slate. Throughout the mid-1990s, small improvements in could be seen in Epsilon Xi, especially with the development of a new attitude towards lore, singing and ritual of the Fraternity. Unfortunately, the Chapter was once again in debt with the General Fraternity in 2005 and was disbanded last August.
FACTS: About 30% of Canada’s potatoes are grown on Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, giving it the nickname Spud Island. Canada’s most popular sports include swimming, ice hockey and skiing. Ice hockey and lacrosse are Canada’s national sports. James Naismith, inventor of basketball, was born in Ontario. The Stanley Cup is awarded in the National Hockey League and the Grey Cup is awarded in the Canadian Football League.
Carleton 1991
Founded 1991
The Epsilon Upsilon chapter at Carleton University began with one young man, Brad Wylie ’91, who arrived at Carleton eager to make the fraternal experience part of his university life. Finding no suitable Greek organization — Carleton like many Canadian schools did not recognize fraternities — Wylie was given the suggestion to start his own fraternity. Joined by others who felt as he did, a new fraternity began to grow. The group began to seek international affiliation and approached Sigma Chi, as Wylie’s older brother was a Sigma Chi at Western Ontario. However, there was a breakdown in communications and the Sigma Chi leadership knew nothing of the group. Looking for another direction, another member suggested Beta Theta Pi, as his father and grandfather were Betas. District Chief Jim Mignault, Western Ontario ’83 heard of the group and quickly began working with the men. In June 1989, 14 men from Carleton were pledged at the Toronto chapter house. During the 150th General Convention that summer, the Carleton pledges petitioned for full colony status and their petition was granted. The Colony quickly began working to achieve a positive public profile and recognition from the University by engaging in numerous philanthropic events.
Wayne Gretzky’s hockey jersey number was 99, he retired in April 1999 after playing 20 seasons in the NHL. Canadian Armand Bombadier invented the snowmobile. Pamela Anderson, Jim Carrey, Neil Young, Shania Twain and Celine Dion are all famous Canadians.
The Colony continued its pattern of success, with one of the highlights being the creation of Inter-Fraternity/ Sorority Board on campus. During the 152nd General Convention, the Colony petitioned for and was granted its charter, officially becoming the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. An Installation Banquet quickly followed, where the Chapter received its coat of arms and motto — “Take Hold of First Principles.” Over the next seven years, the “first principles” were tested as power struggles and debt arose. Nonetheless, the men of Epsilon Upsilon were able to return to the first principles to overcome their problems. They continue to improve and grow as a fine Chapter.
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B
eta Theta Pi has accrued a long and prestigious history as a pioneering fraternity. Beta Theta Pi was the first fraternity to publish an open constitution, first to create general officers, first to hold a General Convention, first to establish a chapter on 35 campuses, first to create districts, first to create alumni chapters and more. The Fraternity took an active role in founding the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) and it maintains the oldest, continuously-published magazine in the fraternity world. In 1984, Beta Theta Pi exercised her pioneering spirit by establishing the first fraternity GPA standard for chapters of 2.5. The president of another international fraternity called this action, “a quantum leap in fraternity history.” The Fraternity again asserted leadership in 1997 by establishing a minimum GPA of 2.5 for individual members. However, despite the positive effects of these bold measures, the 2.5 standards are insufficient in challenging today’s chapters and undergraduates to achieve their academic potential and are ineffective in promoting true devotion to the cultivation of the intellect. 28
The Beta Theta Pi
The Chapter Standard
The 2.5 chapter GPA requirement has positively impacted the Fraternity’s scholarship by creating a minimum standard for performance. Data available from 1988 to 2002 shows a rise in the number of chapters reporting a GPA above 2.5 from 66 to 96 percent. Yet, during the same period the number of chapters achieving a GPA above their campus all-men’s average (AMA) remained stagnant at approximately 43 percent, illustrating the ultimate inadequacy of the 2.5 chapter standard. By failing to address the differences between campus environments and averages, the 2.5 standard only pushes the lowest performing chapters to achieve. “By measuring your success or failure by the all-men’s average we compare you with the men of your own college who are studying under the same academic standards and who, by and large, receive the same type of instruction,” noted former Scholarship Commissioner Earl Sneed, Oklahoma ’33 in a 1951 issue of The Beta Theta Pi magazine. Exceeding the average GPA for men on campus is the best way to demonstrate academic excellence and build institutional good will. Regardless of whether a campus average is 2.7 or 3.3, each undergraduate Beta should be more committed to, and more likely to achieve, scholastic success than the average student. By selecting men who value developing their intellect and maintaining chapter practices that aid scholastic effort, every chapter should consistently achieve a GPA above the AMA. From 1988 to 2002 the number of chapters exceeding the all-men’s average has hovered below 50 percent, suggesting that students on more than half of the campuses where Beta Theta Pi is located were, on average, no better off academically by joining the Fraternity. Becoming a member of Beta Theta Pi should provide a scholastic advantage and members should be successful because of their membership, not in spite of it. Betas take an oath to live up to the Fraternity’s principles and values, and thus are obligating themselves to be better than the average student — particularly in scholarship. With the 2.5 chapter standard creating a minimum level of performance, the Fraternity uses awards to recognize superior academic achievement at the chapter level. For more than 30 years, the regionally-based Virginia Tech award has recognized up to 12 chapters for achieving the largest differential between the chapter
grade point average and the all-campus average. In 2005, Oklahoma State earned the largest differential with a chapter GPA of 3.312 — 0.417 above the all-campus average. Unfortunately, this level of academic excellence is not widespread with only 38 percent of chapters in 2005 above the all-campus average (where calculated.) Since its inception, the award has recognized high achieving chapters while having little impact on increasing the number of chapters that are performing above the all-campus average.
The Member Standard
Like the chapter standard, the 2.5 member standard has also failed to improve the number of chapters above the all-men’s average. That is not to suggest that the standard has not had a positive effect by improving under-performing chapters. From 1997 to 2002 the number of chapters with averages above 2.5 rose from 96 to 98 percent. Yet at the same time the number of chapters above their AMA declined slightly to 43 percent. An individual minimum GPA standard is effective at pushing substandard performing students to achieve a minimum 2.5, but it does nothing to shape a culture of above average GPA performance. The data shows that the 2.5 member standard simply did not drive chapters from below to above average. Individual academic achievement is important. Today’s law, business and medical schools all require high GPAs for admittance. According to U.S. News & World Report: 2006 edition, the average undergraduate GPA for students entering the top 50 business schools was 3.36, top 50 law schools was 3.57 and the top 50 medical schools was 3.67. Likewise, top candidates for quality jobs in engineering, business and government must also earn high GPAs to compete.
Betas take an oath to live up to the Fraternity’s principles and values, and thus are obligating themselves to be better than the average student — particularly in scholarship.
Historically, the Fraternity boasts more than 80 Rhodes scholars, 197 members of Congress, 23 governors, six Supreme Court justices and many other successful men who have established Beta Theta Pi’s tradition of scholastic achievement and personal success. In 1911, four of nine Supreme Court justices were members of Beta Theta Pi. One would expect future Supreme Court justices, Rhodes Scholars and members of Congress to excel academically also. While it is unrealistic to expect a chapter to consist solely of the supreme scholars from its campus, it is in the best interest of Beta Theta Pi’s members to achieve high GPAs to enable future career success. Spring 2006
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The pledge manual Son of the Stars references a 1962 Telephone and Telegraph Company study of 17,000 college graduates employed by AT&T showing that “the single most reliable predictive indicator of a college graduate’s success in the Bell System is his rank in his graduating class.” The GPA system is often criticized for failing to accurately measure the true intellectual growth of individuals. While there is some validity to this criticism, grades remain an overall reliable indicator of academic effort and performance. They are also the only standardized system of measure available.
By their own admission, three of 10 first-year students do just enough academic work to get by. Less than one-fifth of first-year students expect to spend the recommended time studying to do well in college (25 hours per week.)
It is difficult to gauge how much the individual member GPA requirement has impacted member performance because campus averages and standards vary. One could hypothesize that higher individual standards would result in higher chapter achievement. A recent survey of Virginia Tech award winners supports this hypothesis, revealing that 60 percent raised their minimum member grade requirements to anywhere from a 2.6 to a 3.0. They consistently established minimum GPAs for initiation at or above 2.5, and have standards for holding an office, often at a 2.8 or 3.0. Therefore, it is possible to correlate high standards with high achievement. Former general secretary and Oxford Cup recipient, Seth R. Brooks, St. Lawrence ’22 affirmed this notion writing, “without devotion to the high standards which Beta has always held we cannot have great chapters.” High standards are often accompanied by positive cultures that can create healthy expectations for a chapter. Alpha Nu Scholarship Chairman Stephen Sheldon, Kansas ’07 remarked, “It is an expectation of the [chapter] to succeed academically.” Many chapters manifest this success through academic assistance plans, study hours or setting goals to consistently place first in grades among campus fraternities. “We try to make grades a big deal in the chapter,” said Pi Chapter President Kyle Webb, Indiana ’07. “We strive each semester to be number one on campus in grades and we try to hold members accountable who begin to slip from their potential.” Today’s colleges need this scholastically-minded fraternity culture more than ever. In 1839, students often returned home for the harvest and made significant sacrifices for their education. According to the National Survey of Student Engagement (conducted by the Indiana University Center for Postsecondary Research — surveying nearly 900,000 undergraduates since 2000)
30
The Beta Theta Pi
many of today’s students are less invested in their education. By their own admission, three of 10 first-year students do just enough academic work to get by. Less than one-fifth of first-year students expect to spend the recommended time studying to do well in college (25 hours per week.) Further, a December 12, 2005 article by BusineesWeek cited that incoming students average 82 minutes a day perusing social networking websites. Whether it is AOL Instant Messenger, Facebook, MySpace or playing video games, the modern college student has a lot of distractions from developing and employing successful study habits. For Beta Theta Pi, the academic reality is improving. The Fraternity GPA for 2005 rose to a 2.99 and 63% of chapters surpassed their campus allmen’s averages. One potential contributing factor from the past three years could be the growth of the Men of Principle initiative and its related programming to return the focus of chapters to the Fraternity’s founding values. Another factor could be the closure of 16 chapters and the establishment of 12 new colonies, which often maintain higher GPAs. The reasons for this recent increase in scholastic performance are surely attributable to many changes in General Fraternity and chapter practices. Ultimately, the 2.5 standards were not good enough to spur the improvement alone.
Only One Part
Grade point averages are important for members of Beta Theta Pi because of their significance for employment and post-graduate selection and as an indicator of effort put forth in academic work; however, collegiate life expands beyond grade point averages. They reveal nothing about extracurricular activity or personal growth, and devotion to the cultivation of the intellect extends well beyond the classroom. Scholarship Commissioner James M. Strilesky, British Columbia ’72 explained, “[GPAs] make it too easy for us to think we are doing either a good job or a poor job of achieving or addressing one of our principles.” “GPA is only one part of the college experience,” added Dr. Robert Graalman, Oklahoma State ’69, director of Scholar Development at Oklahoma State University. “Students should be well read, knowledgeable of current events, be interested in travel and partake in all that a university has to offer.” Graalman contends that
the members of a fraternity chapter with a 4.0 GPA could still not be getting the right things out of college and not truly cultivating their minds. The scope of Beta Theta Pi’s principle of devotion to the cultivation of the intellect is simple to grasp by looking at the words. Brooks described devotion as “the surrender of self to some person or thing.” Devotion is a solemn vow that cannot be taken lightly. Cultivation connotes the continuous work of tilling or working the soil in preparation for growth. Cultivating the mind begins in college and extends into later life. Intellect refers to the power of the mind and its capacity for knowledge and understanding. Hence, in this object, Betas dedicate themselves to the preparation and continuous stimulation of the intellectual powers. Beta Theta Pi has known cultivation of the intellect as a principle object since her early days with origins in literary societies. Members would participate in this popular extracurricular activity reciting essays, critiquing classmates and debating important questions. The minutes of the Union Literary society for January 20, 1837 recorded as the topic for debate, “Has a state, under any circumstances, a right to secede from the Union?” Discussing topics such as these 25 years before the Civil War implies a devoted
yearning for knowledge and understanding. Beta Theta Pi continued this devotion with the founders reciting essays and debating issues in similar fashion. Naturally, John Reily Knox and his associates selected devotion to the cultivation of the intellect as an object worthy of their associated effort. The modern gap between this principle and practice is evidenced by the rarity in Beta Theta Pi chapters of such thoughtful contemplation, intense debate and stimulating intellectual development. More important than the inadequacies of chapter GPAs are the inadequacies in many chapter cultures to promote true cultivation of the intellect. Most visibly, the vernacular definition of a social Fraternity prevents many chapters from living up to their intellectual potential.
A Social Fraternity
The word “social” when describing a college Fraternity is used as a distinction from purely academic or honorary societies. Phi Beta Kappa, the first fraternity (founded in 1776), was originally a social fraternity, but now exists solely to honor academic excellence. Common societal knowledge equates social fraternities with negative stereotypes of substance abuse and recklessness. Ironically, the common purposes of social fraternities (close friendships among men, development of social skills and the advancement of society) are frequently undermined by activities conducted in the name of being “social.”
Common societal knowledge equates social fraternities with negative stereotypes of substance abuse and recklessness. Ironically, the common purposes of social fraternities are frequently undermined by activities conducted in the name of being “social.”
Admittedly, many men join Beta Theta Pi because of her social endeavors. There is enormous value and fulfillment in the confidence and trust inspired by close friendships in the Fraternity; however, the fact that Beta Theta Pi is social in nature cannot be used as an alibi for poor scholastic performance or a justification for irresponsible behavior. “A man who willingly passes up opportunities to go to the bar so he may sit with his brothers on Friday and Saturday nights is a man who, in my eyes, Spring 2006
31
Beta Theta Pi exists only because of its affiliation with and support of educational institutions and thus should reciprocate this support.
is devoted to learning and TRUE social development,” said Zeta Chi Scholarship Chairman Chris Dunaj, Connecticut ’08. Beta Theta Pi has a core purpose of close associations for friendship’s sake that complements its devotion to intellectual achievement. The enduring goal of the Men of Principle initiative is to realign the Fraternity’s practices with her founding principles. Unfortunately, it is too frequently assumed that due attention is given to cultivation of the intellect because collegiate members are enrolled in classes. It is easy to shift the responsibility for intellectual growth solely on the institution and focus on other objects of fraternity life such as service, leadership and social. These worthy objects receive much of the attention that intellectual development desperately needs. Devotion to the cultivation of the intellect is the forgotten principle of the Fraternity. Contrasted with early Beta Theta Pi meetings, modern chapter meetings are overwhelmingly devoted to business, with little retained value or benefit of learning. If a chapter member uses a complex word he is more likely to be greeted with mockery than praise. Many chapters are more likely to
32
The Beta Theta Pi
heavily invest in a quality big-screen television than a quality library or study area. The ultimate distinction between a collegiate fraternity and some other fraternal or social society is learning and growth. This distinction is frequently lost with the changing dynamic of the modern college student. Beta Theta Pi exists only because of its affiliation with and support of educational institutions and thus should reciprocate this support. “Cultivation of the intellect is a primary mission of the Fraternity to be pursued in close partnership with the host institution,” wrote E.B. Wilson, St. Lawrence ’53, chairman of the committee that created the Initiative. “Beta chapter houses must be perceived as and qualify as centers of intellectual achievement so that faculties and administrators not only welcome their presence but desire their presence.” Wilson explains that universities desire organizations that complement and augment their academic mission: to educate and prepare young adults for constructive roles in society as informed and productive citizens. Scholarship Commissioner Strilesky added, “If we are true to our principles, we are needed more now than
we were in 1839.” The challenge is in implementing programs and practices that support the principle of devotion to the cultivation of the intellect. Wilson challenged, “Why is it not possible for Beta to sponsor debates and plenary sessions on issues of global, national or campus importance?”
What Is Needed?
The redefinition of Beta Theta Pi as an academically-driven social — in the true sense — fraternity is evidenced by more than GPA standards and a recent increase in chapters achieving grade point averages above their all-men’s averages. Many programs and practices are required in tandem to reshape chapter cultures in support of high academic and intellectual achievement. One commonly used practice is Recruitment Through Scholarship. Nine of 12 Virginia Tech winners utilize RTS, a program offering a scholarship to unaffiliated freshmen men. Contrary to what the name implies, there is no obligation to join. This program allows the chapter to meet quality men while doing a service to the campus. “Our chapter uses RTS because it is a good way of getting our name out, but it is mainly used as a background check for the people we recruit,” said Gamma Lambda Scholarship Chairman Edy El Rassi, Oklahoma State ’08. “We also believe that it is good to recognize students who excel academically regardless of whether they become associated with our chapter.” Many chapters also encourage outside involvement in campus organizations to promote healthy levels of activity and good time management habits. “We cultivate our minds here at Gamma Lambda by our involvement on campus organizations and activities,” commented El Rassi. Students involved in cultural organizations, service clubs and other activities are exposed to a greater range of experiences that enhance the true value of an education. Another practice to stimulate intellectual development was developed by Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity in 2000. The Residential Learning Community is an accreditation program that transforms chapter houses into places of academic focus beyond the classroom. The program includes high GPA standards, designated academic space, substance-free common and academic areas, innovative programming to spur member education and an active “Faculty Fellow” who holds office hours in the chapter house.
Sigma Phi Epsilon finds that RLC chapters have larger memberships, higher GPAs and a more enriching living environment. “An environment of intellectual excellence attracts more members — better members,” remarked Sigma Phi Epsilon Director of Communications Scott Thompson. “It is an environment of camaraderie and learning that few residence halls can provide.” The innovative programming of RLCs includes speakers on mental health, Greek philosophy, challenges in business and more. Oklahoma State cited similar activities such as inviting speakers on alcohol abuse, nutrition and resume writing. Strilesky urges chapters to do more, “[Students] should openly and intellectually wrestle with difficult ‘core’ questions of life and living.” Heeding Strilesky’s advice would shift the Fraternity closer the intellectual thought of the early literary societies. The intellectual outlook for Beta Theta Pi is promising. Chapters are slowly implementing many of these practices to improve academic achievement and promote cultures of intellectual development. Chapter GPAs are rising and many chapter houses mimic the environment envisioned through residential learning communities; however, devotion to the cultivation of the intellect is not embodied by chapters that have below average GPAs and facilities that impede the development of habits of lifelong learning. Substantial time and effort will be required to ensure the Fraternity remedies these shortcomings and returns to her founding principles. The one surety in this journey is that 2.5 is no longer good enough. — M. Hill
Spring 2006
33
PORTER-PRICE
Shortle
Snowden
Fletcher
CallahAN Marrero
Watkins
Uang Sofia
Marchetti Johnson
C A M P U S InterFraternity Council Presidents
Student Government Presidents
InterFraternity Council Officers
Student Government Officers
Andrew Callahan, Connecticut ’07 Daniel Fletcher, Missouri ’06 Alexander Snowden, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’07 Matt Brawner, Truman State ’07 Josh Owens, Wabash ’07
Steve Travis, Arizona ’09 (vice president, membership) Andy Capps, Auburn ’06 (board member) Daniel Falkenstein, Carnegie Mellon ’08 (treasurer) Reed Cole, Clemson ’07 (vice president) Josh Lee, Clemson ’06 (vice president, recruitment) Michael Sharkey, Emory ’07 (board member) Mark (Anthony) Sofia, Emory ’08 (vice president, recruitment) Michael Wolpert, Emory ’08 (recruitment chair) Urian Yap, Emory ’06 (board member) Matt Sivard, Miami ’08 (vice president, new member education) John Hutchinson, Minnesota ’06 (vice president) James Barry, Missouri ’07 (vice president, risk management) Dave James, Ohio ’07 (vice president, recruitment) Walter Williamson, Ohio ’08 (vice president, new member education) Joel Arellano, Oregon ’08 (vice president, accountability) Bill Breedlove, Penn ’07 (vice president, long term planning) Russell Dunlap, Tennessee ’06 (diversity chair) William King, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’08 (vice president, recruitment) Omar Munoz, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’08 (vice president, finance) Mike Halverson, Utah ’08 (vice president) Alex James, Utah ’08 (operations chair) Josh Coons, Wabash ’07 (vice president) Keith Pisarcik, Washington & Jefferson ’07 (treasurer) William Maurer, West Chester ’07 (parliamentarian) Patrick McAndress, West Chester ’07 (vice president, scholarship) Matt Stenovec, Whitman ’08 (treasurer) Brian Best, Willamette ’06 (vice president, programming) Thomas Becker, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’09 (vice president, recruitment) James Parker, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’06 (vice president, philanthropy)
34
The Beta Theta Pi
George Stegall, Auburn ’07 Alex Shortle, Indiana ’07 Barclay Harless, South Florida ’08 Mark Kirtland, Truman State ’07 David Ader, Washington in St. Louis ’06 Nick Gonzalez, Auburn ’07 (senator, College of Business) Preston Seckman, Auburn ’08 (senator) Michael Thomas, Auburn ’08 (senator, College of Business) James Rogers, Carnegie Mellon ’07 (senator) Reed Cole, Clemson ’07 (director, municipal services) Ross Fryer, Clemson ’06 (director, public relations) Josh Lee, Clemson ’06 (director, student services) Ian Macleod, DePauw ’07 (allocations board) Jason Alvarado, Eastern Washington ’06 (vice president, finance) Jason Gavinski, Eastern Washington ’07 (superior court) Eric Silva, Eastern Washington ’07 (academic affairs) James Marchetti, Emory ’08 (vice president, academic affairs) Patrick Cook, Georgia Tech ’07 (executive committee) Seamus Nelson, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’08 (vice president) Dane Guempel, Truman State ’08 (senator) Grant Tower, Truman State ’07 (chair, parking appeals) Sean Clerget, Wabash ’09 (senator) Josh Coons, Wabash ’07 (secretary) Ross Dillard, Wabash ’07 (treasurer) Josh Owens, Wabash ’07 (senator) Daniel Petrie, Wabash ’07 (senator) Andrew Rodenbarger, Wabash ’08 (senator) Adam Deal, Washington & Jefferson ’07 (treasurer) Jeff Wilson, Whitman ’08 (senator) Matt Alex, Willamette ’08 (senator) Carter Farmington, Willamette ’06 (senator) Trevor Findley, Willamette ’06 (senator) James Huang, Willamette ’08 (senator) Ryan Shipe, Willamette ’06 (senator) Galen Smith, Willamette ’06 (senator) Andrew Tyler, Willamette ’07 (senator) Korie Mertens, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’08 (senator)
Class Officers
Warren Reed, Columbia ’09 (president, engineering & applied science) David Ross, Washington in St. Louis ’09 (president)
Parker
Maharaj
Barry
Nelson
Bares Loberg
REED
Koenigsfeld Wolpert
Lippert Yap
LEADERS Order of Omega Officers
Nick Gelbar, Connecticut ’06 (president) Cole Griswold, Miami ’06 (vice president, recruitment) Brian Sondag, Minnesota ’06 (vice president) Andrew Tejerina, Penn ’06 (president)
Honorary Society & Fraternity Officers
Mathew Haberman, Arizona ’07 (president, Chain Gang Junior Honorary) Josh Chesser, Auburn ’05 (vice president, Tau Sigma) Emanuel Werner, Cincinnati ’07 (president, Mortar Board) Harrison Trammell, Clemson ’06 (director, Blue Key honorary) Albert Marrero, Florida International ’08 (public relations, Alpha Kappa Psi) Evan Williams, Miami ’06 (vice president, Engineering honorary) Eric Butz, Minnesota ’07 (vice president, Carlson School of Management honorary) Robert Carlile, Missouri ’06 (president, Sigma Rho Sigma) Daniel Fletcher, Missouri ’06 (vice president, Mortar Board & Beta Alpha Psi) Bryce Johnson, Missouri ’07 (president, Beta Alpha Psi; treasurer, Omicron Delta Kappa) Mark Antonson, Nebraska ’06 (president, Omicron Delta Kappa; v.p. Alpha Kappa Psi) Jon Abelson, Penn ’06 (president, Friars honorary) Benjamin Klein, Penn ’06 (president, Pi Sigma Alpha) Douglas Petkanics, Penn ’06 (president, Hexagon Society) Evan Silverstein, Penn ’06 (vice president, Hexagon Society) Seth May, Tennessee ’08 (treasurer, Phi Alpha Delta) Alexander Snowden, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’06 (president, Pi Sigma Alpha) Bryan Campbell, Truman State ’07 (secretary, Eta Sigma Gamma) Jason Hightower, Truman State ’08 (vice president, Bacchus and Gamma) Gabe Koenig, Truman State ’07 (philanthropy chair, Beta Beta Beta) Paul Rotert, Truman State ’08 (initiation chair, Beta Beta Beta; class president, Blue Key honorary) Brian Snyders, Truman State ’07 (pledge educator, Beta Beta Beta) Ryan Wills, Truman State ’07 (executive board, Blue Key honorary) Brandon Ehrie, Wabash ’07 (president, Phi Beta Lambda)
Other Notables
Greg Anderson, California-Irvine ’07 (president, Pre-Law Society) Jeff Lehton, California-Irvine ’07 (program director, KUCI radio) Jon Kline, Carnegie Mellon ’07 (president, Intramurals) Matt Mezinskis, Cincinnati ’06 (president, Men of Metro) Harrison Trammell, Clemson ’06 (president, Student Alumni Council) Charlie Walls, Clemson ’06 (president, Tiger Brotherhood) Wayne Ting, Columbia ’06 (communications director, College Democrats of America) Andrew Callahan, Connecticut ’07 (president, All-Greek Council) Jose Machado, Connecticut ’08 (president, Portuguese Cultural Association) Adam Porter-Price, Connecticut ’06 (president, UConn Model United Nations) Raj Maharaj, Florida International ’06 (site leader, alternative spring break) William Lippert, Kenyon ’07 (president, Kenyon College Republicans) Joe Dougherty, Miami ’06 (president, Men Against Rape & Sexual Assault) Cole Griswold, Miami ’06 (president, Senior Legacy Campaign) Joe Rosing, Miami ’06 (president, school of engineering & applied science) Jens Loberg, Minnesota ’08 (president, Communications Studies Association) Taylor Pendersen, Minnesota ’06 (president, Business Association of Multicultural Students) Thomas Koenigsfeld, Missouri ’07 (president, National Agri-Marketing) Bochen Uang, Missouri-Kansas City ’08 (president, Roo Crew) David Watkins, Missouri-Kansas City ’07 (president, Pre-Dental Society) Jason Parsons, Nebraska ’06 (commander, Air Force ROTC) Peter Howe, Truman State ’06 (president, Habitat for Humanity) Barron Hewetson, Wabash ’08 (president, College Republicans) Adam Kirsch, Wabash ’07 (president, College Democrats) Brandon Stewart, Wabash ’08 (editor, Wabash Commentary Conservative Journal) Jeff Morris, Willamette ’07 (president, Pre-Med Club) Jordan Hanson, Yale ’07 (president, Undergraduate Council of St. Thomas More)
Spring 2006
35
Sports R [Sports RoundUp]
Chris Ayer
Loyola Marymount ’06
against Northern Colorado and 21 points, 10 rebounds versus Western Michigan.
Aaron Hazel Whitman ’07
BasketBALL
Chosen for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility was Dave Gavitt, Dartmouth ’59. After a successful stint as head coach at Providence College, he has been chairman of the NCAA Division basketball committee, president of USA Basketball from 1988 to 1992, 1995 recipient of the Conference Commissioners Association Merit Award and chairman of the Basketball Hall of Fame’s board of directors. Gavitt will become the sixth Beta inducted when the official enshrinement takes place at the Hall on September 8-9 in Springfield, Mass. Named to the North-American Interfraternity Conference All-Fraternity All-American first team was center Chris Ayer ’06 of Loyola Marymount, who started every game and was named winner of the team’s Mr. Hustle award. He had career highs in scoring (282 points, 9.4 per game), rebounding (189, 6.3 per game) and blocked shots (38). Among his best games were 22 points and eight rebounds 36
The Beta Theta Pi
Seeing action for the Georgia Tech squad was guard Steve Wolcott ’09. Also playing in NCAA Division I was center Jared Holt ’08, who appeared in nine games for the 20-8 Texas A&M-Corpus Christi squad. At 7’2” and 380 pounds, he is perhaps the largest Beta to ever play college basketball. A key regular at forward for 16-10 Wabash was Andrew Zimmer ’08, who led the team in rebounding (132, 5.1 per game) and blocked shots (31). He ranked second in scoring with 274 points (10.5 per game) and field goal shooting (58.2%). His top games were 26 points, seven rebounds versus Earlham and 19 points, eight rebounds against Oberlin. Also playing for Wabash was teammate Colin Smith ’09, who appeared in five games as a guard. Starting 12 contests at center for Whitman was Aaron Hazel ’07. He led the team in blocked shots (27), ranked second in field goal shooting (52.1%), scored 180 points (7.5 per game)
Steve Wolcott Georgia Tech ’09
and pulled down 113 rebounds (4.7 per game.) Forward Dylan Schram ’08, who had 17 starts for Westminster, led his squad in rebounding (128, 4.9 per game) and blocked shots (23). He shot 51.1% from the field and scored 166 points (6.4 per
Josh Moten Knox ’06
Roundup game). Teammate Cade House ’08 started 14 games at guard, scored 150 points (5.8 per game) and was second with 10 blocked shots. Guard Brock Dawson ’06 of the 16-10 Hanover team scored 147 points (5.9 per game) and had 29 assists. Co-leader in steals (30) for the 12-11 Knox squad was guard Josh Moten ’08, who also shot 54.2% from the field and scored 125 points (5.4 per game). Having another successful season at his alma mater was head coach Mark Edwards, Washington in St. Louis ’69, who posted a 17-8 record and led the Bears to a second place finish in the University Athletic Association. His career record after 26 seasons is now 443-231.
Swimming
Earning All-American honors again were two Betas who helped lead North Dakota to a third place finish at the NCAA Division II championship meet. Co-captain Jared Peters ’06 was on the winning 200 medley and 400 medley relay teams. Jeff Schneider ’06 was on the first place 200 medley relay, the third place 800 freestyle relay and placed eighth in the 100 breaststroke (57.86). At the North Coast Conference meet, he won two individual events (200 breaststroke, 500 freestyle) and was on two winning relays (200 medley, 800 freestyle.) Schneider was also named to the NCC Commissioners Academic Honor Roll.
Nine Betas helped lead DePauw to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference title, with six earning All-SCAC honors.
Brock Sishc DePauw ’08
Greg Nowak DePauw ’08
Joe Fox DePauw ’06
Zach Marquand DePauw ’07
Gib Wallace DePauw ’08
Two Yale Betas competed at the Eastern Intercollegiate Swimming League meet. Colin Stalnecker ’08 placed ninth in the 100 and 200 breaststroke events. Kevin Pudas ’07 placed ninth in the 1000 freestyle, 12th in the 500 freestyle and 18th in the 1650 freestyle. Also on the Yale squad was Lou Krasenics ’07. Divers competing at Division I schools were Richard Hamlin ’07 of Colgate and Josh Sterling ’08 of Cornell.
to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference title, with six earning All-SCAC honors. Greg Nowak was on the first place 200 medley and 400 freestyle relay teams, placed third in the 100 freestyle, swam on the third place 800 freestyle relay, and was fifth in the 50 and 300 freestyle events. Brock Sishc ’08 placed second in the 200 backstroke, 200 IM and 400 IM while also swimming on the third place 800 freestyle relay. Michael Young ’07 was second with the 400 medley relay, third with the 200 medley relay and placed fourth in the 200 breaststroke.
Nine Betas helped lead DePauw
DePauw’s Gib Wallace ’08 was on
the second place 400 medley relay and third place 200 medley relay while finishing sixth in the 200 breaststroke. Co-captain Jonathan Enenbach ’06 placed third in one meter diving and was sixth on the three meter board. Zach Marquand ’07 was on the third place 800 freestyle relay and finished 10th in the 100 backstroke. Joe Fox ’06 was seventh in the 200 butterfly and eighth in the 100 butterfly. Named to the SCAC 15th Anniversary Swimming and Diving Team were two Betas: Dan Garrison, DePauw ’01 and Evan Kennel, DePauw ’05, both of whom earned SCAC Swimmer of the Year honors. Spring 2006
37
Sports R 400 medley relay and third place 200 medley. He was also sixth in the 400 IM and ninth in the 100 breaststroke. Adam Krings ’09 was third with the 200 medley relay and finished ninth in the 100 freestyle. Also competing for Lawrence at the MWC meet were freestyler James Hustace ’07, freestyler Patrick Jordan ’08 and butterfly specialist Adam Gorham ’08.
Zach Nigrelli
Washington & Jefferson ’06
Dan Mancuso
Washington & Jefferson ’06
Matt Socha
Washington & Jefferson ’06
Sewanee captain Elliott Dement ’06 was a leading swimmer at the SCAC meet. He won the 400 IM (4:09.84) for the second straight year and was on the winning 200 freestyle relay. He had second place finishes in the 200 IM (for the fourth straight year), 100 backstroke (54.86) and 200 medley relay while placing third with the 400 medley relay team. Also competing on the Sewanee squad was teammate Clay Stewart ’08. At the New England Small College Athletic Conference meet, diver Dave Williamson of Wesleyan placed fourth in the three meter event and fifth on the one meter board. Thirteen Betas were members of the Washington & Jefferson squad. Dan Mancuso won two events at the Presidents Athletic Conference meet: the 400 IM (4:14.06) and the 500 freestyle (4:42.32), breaking a 24-year-old record. He also placed second in the 200 butterfly (1:57.31) and 38
The Beta Theta Pi
third with the 800 freestyle relay. Eddie Werner placed second in the 200 IM; was third in the 100 backstroke, 400 medley relay and 800 freestyle relay; and was fifth in the 200 backstroke. Zach Nigrelli placed third in the 800 freestyle and on the 400 medley relay, where he was joined by Brian Train ’07. Matt Socha ’06 was also on the third place 800 freestyle relay for W&J.
Barron Hewettson ’09 of Wabash competed in breaststroke and individual medley events at the North Coast Athletic Conference meet. Also competing at the NCAC meet was Kevin McAninch ’06 of Wittenberg, who swam the 1650 freestyle event. Jacob Ruth ’09 of Case Western Reserve competed at four different freestyle distances and also swam the 100 butterfly.
FootBALL
Lloyd Lee, Dartmouth ’95 was promoted by the Chicago Bears to defensive assistant on February 20th after spending the last two seasons as the team’s defensive quality control coach. In his new capacity, he will assist with the Bears’ nickel package and linebackers. Mike Hankwitz, Michigan ’71, who was interim head coach at Colorado at the end of the 2005 season, is now the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin.
The Lawrence squad, which placed second at the Midwest Conference meet, was led by eight Beta swimmers. Captain Adam Kolb ’06 was on the first place 800 freestyle relay and had four second place finishes (200 freestyle, 500 free- Oklahoma defensive back Dan style, 200 freestyle relay, 400 freestyle relay.) He was also third in the 200 freestyle and on the 200 medley relay. David Danenhower ’06 was second with three relays (200 freestyle, 400 freestyle, Jaran Rutledge 400 medley) and eighth in Knox ’08 the 50 freestyle. Kyle Griffin ’09 of Lawrence was on the winning 800 freestyle medley; placed third in the 1650 freestyle, finished fifth in the 500 freestyle and was sixth in the 200 freestyle. Matt Yauch ’09 was on the second place
Roundup Dixon ’05, a Big 12 All-Academic performer last fall, won the Sooners’ Derrick Shepard Most Inspirational Walk-On Player of the Year Award. In March, Knox offensive lineman Jim Davis ’06, a two-time team captain who started 40 straight games, was named by the National Strength and Conditioning Association as an All-American Athlete of the Year for his weight and conditional work during his career.
OTHER SPORTS
Heavyweight wrestler Jaran Rutledge ’08 of Knox placed third at the Great Lakes regional meet, which earned Ryan Bennick him a spot as an alternate for Stevens ’08 the NCAA Division III meet. He also was third at the Milwauat the Montana kee School of Engineering State Invitational Invitational and fourth at the and also competed North Central Invitational. at the University of Ryan Bennick ’08 of Stevens Alaska-Anchorage Hall of Fame third basewas named to the Division Brian Weiner Invitational, placing Baseball man Mike Schmidt, Ohio ’72 has III Scholar All-American Stevens ’06 39th in the slalom written “Clearing the Bases,” an Team. He placed second at and 45th in the the Centennial Conference giant slalom. Jacob autobiographical look at his career meet and posted a 23-9 record at Stultz ’07 competed in alpine ski- and how baseball has lost it way 157 pounds. Ryan Pritchard ’07 ing for MIT at the Brown Carnival, due to skyrocketing payrolls, stewas a regular for Wabash at 165 placing 36th in the slalom. He roids, callous owners and inflated pounds. was also 31st in the slalom at salaries, among other things. The book, which was published The Colgate squash team went to the Plymouth State Carnival. Playby HarperCollins in March, also ing in club hockey programs were the national tournament and was provides Schmidt’s prescription led by co-captains Adam Karger Michael McLachlan ’08 of Cornell, for restoring integrity to the game ’06 and Brooks Hoppel ’07. Team- Pete Arregunin of Illinois, Jimmy and bringing baseball back to its McKeague ’07 of Purdue and Pepmate Brad Marschalk ’06 was rightful place. He also discusses perdine captain Shyam Bajaj. also a regular. Brad Birenbaum his longtime interest in returning ’09 was a regular at the number Playing again on the PGA Tour are to the game as a manager and the eight and nine positions for the Brandt Jobe, UCLA ’88, and Scott difficulties he encountered when George Washington squash team McCarron, UCLA ’88. During the that opportunity presented itself and Wesleyan co-captain Andrew second round of the Masters in during the 2004 season. Rozas ’06 played in the number early April, Jobe made only the sev– Jay Langhammer one and two positions. A member enth eagle in Masters history on of the Cornell squash team was the par-4 10th hole. Using a 6-iron Michael Collis ’08. Fencer Brian from 202 yards away, he feared the Weiner ’08 of Stevens earned a shot was headed for the bunker, gold medal in the Sabre B-strip but it turned enough to disappear pool at the Middle Atlantic Colle- into the cup. “It’s my first crystal,” giate Fencing Association champi- said Jobe, noting that Augusta onship. He also played in the Divi- National awards crystal goblets sion III Mid-Atlantic regional. for every eagle. “When it went in, Whitman skier Matt Bingham ’08 I just about jumped up and down. placed 37th in the giant slalom It startled me.” He tied for 32nd at the Masters. Spring 2006
39
Mystic [Mystic Shrine]
In Loving Memory
Heber Hiram Stephenson Jr. Miami ’39
Beta Theta Pi’s beloved Archivist H.H. Stephenson Jr., Miami ’39, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, February 26, at McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Ohio. His daughter Jeannette and son Ned were at his bedside. The role of H.H. (Hi) Stephenson in Beta Theta Pi was unique. As General Fraternity archivist since 1976, he was custodian of the Fraternity’s museum as well as curator of its collections of documents and other treasures and coordinator of the John Reily Knox Memorial Library. In these capacities, he often was the first to greet visitors to the Foundation and Administrative Office. For Stephenson, the position of archivist was a volunteer job, and he has been part of a five-man committee planning the expansion and improvement of the archives and museum. Beta’s fourth Archivist since 1870, he was the first “resident archivist,” coming almost daily from his home to an office adjacent to the museum. The work followed him to a vacation home at Lakeside-on-Lake Erie, Ohio. In 1998, he was presented with the Fraternity’s prestigious Oxford Cup. Three years later, he received one of three inaugural Francis W. Shepardson awards, recognizing his lifelong service to Beta Theta Pi. Born August 19, 1916, in Jackson, Ohio, he was initiated October 9, 1936, No. 638 on the Alpha chapter roll. He completed 1943-46 military service as a lieutenant in the Supply Corps of the Naval Reserve, all sea duty in the Pacific. In 1946, he returned to his alma mater to begin 31 years of student personnel staff work. He was assistant dean of student life for housing assignments and administrative services from 1973 until retirement in 1977. He was faculty advisor and counselor for Alpha chapter and for several years was secretary and on the Board of The Alpha Chapter House Company. In 1995, he became the 12th inductee into the Alpha Chapter Hall of Fame. As an undergraduate, he sang in the Alpha chapter quartet, the Alpha Centenary Choir and was alumni secretary. He was a member of the Men’s Glee Club and Phi Mu Alpha, men’s music honor society. He was active in the University YMCA and director of its Freshman Camp his senior year. An Elder in the Oxford Presbyterian Church since 1951, for six years he was chairman of its Church School Board, for many years the church’s clerk of session. He intermittently sung in its chancel choir since undergraduate days. Furthermore, it is common knowledge among his friends and associates that when he was in town, a portion of each Thursday morning was blocked out for his traditional unofficial duty as proof-reader of the church bulletin. In 1946, Stephenson was married in Orrville, Ohio, to the former Katharine (Kay) Warner, an Oberlin College graduate. Kay passed away on February 3, 2006. They are survived by their two children, Edwin (Ned) Stephenson, Tennessee ’74, and Mrs. James (Jeannette) Keton, Rockwall, Texas. Other Beta relatives: his father, the late Heber H. Stephenson, Ohio State 1906, and his uncle, the late Bertram S. Stephenson, Ohio State 1901, a district chief. Stephenson was trustee and secretary of The Oxford Museum Association, president of the Friends of the Library Society of Miami University, Republican Central Committeeman in Butler County and trustee and secretary of the Vereker Farm Condominium Association. With Mr. and Mrs. George Hill of Oxford, Hi and Kay were co-authors of an illustrated booklet, Highlights of Historic Oxford, 1969.
40
Beta Theta TheThe Beta Theta Pi Pi
Shrine Amherst
Rizzo, Joseph N. (Big Joe) ’43, March 15, 2005. Spent his business career with Sears & Roebuck, retiring as a national merchandise manager. A highlight of his life was celebrating 50 years with Beta. Survived by wife (of 57 years) Audrey, Beta son Joe Jr., North Dakota ’71, four grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Beloit
Martin, John G. ’43, February 14. Served in the U.S. Air Force and became a cryptographer. Received M.S. in education and taught and coached at Harlem High School 1946-58 and Rockford West High School 1958-82. He enjoyed golf, fishing, swimming and traveling, and did volunteer work. Survived by daughter Laura, sons Douglas and John, seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and Beta brother Malcolm L. ’49. Beta father John G. (dec.) Wilder, John W. Jr. ’40, Nov. 2. Beta father John W. (dec.)
Bowdoin
Lewis, Lawrence J. ’58, September 14. Served in U.S. Coast Guard as a lieutenant. A real estate broker/investor who owned Century 21 Lewis-Steele Realtors, he also owned the Orange Duck Wildlife Art and Gifts and Grass Valley Sears. Active with the chamber of commerce. Survived by wife Lauren, sons Robert W. and William B., and three granddaughters.
British Columbia
Younger, Andrew H. ’45, September 12
California-Santa Barbara
Wills, Christopher D. ’00, November 14. He was a two-sport athlete, playing baseball and football. Majored in business and graduated with honors in 2000. At the age of 28, he became a senior vice president with Fisher Investments, a money management firm specializing in global investing. Survived by his parents and brothers.
Central Michigan
Yasick, Eugene S. (Steve) Jr. ’89, February 17. He was a teacher at Zeeland West High School where he was an active coach of F.I.R.S.T robotics team. He enjoyed camping and fishing. Survived by wife Amy, daughter Sara and son Jason.
Centre
Lanier, Philip M. ’50, November 21. Beta brother Addison (dec.)
Cincinnati
Janok, Edward J. ’77, November 4 Miller, Earle A. ’54, December 15
Colorado
Kriz, William C. ’58, November 22. As a mechanical engineer he worked for Caterpillar Tractor Co. and Trane Co. He had a high profile in the Sacramento area for 35 years for energy conservation efforts. Kriz started Systemaire/ ClimateAire, Inc. (later sold to Cal-Air), then Building Systems Engineering, a consulting firm. He was a champion of energy conservation for California’s public schools. His firm proved the expertise for more than 250 design teams and several thousand projects. He
guided and supported many community efforts. Survived by wife Patricia, daughter Heidi and son Kurt.
Colorado School of Mines Irish, Charles W. ’50, January 30
Columbia
Fisher, John G. ’41, September 30. He was a commander, USNR and registered metallurgical engineer. Survived by wife Terry, daughters Nancy and Ruth, sons Charles and John, and six grandchildren.
Cornell
Gardner, George G. ’40, May 7, 2005 Kelley, Thomas D. ’31, January 19. He served as a Seattle attorney for 61 years, and was a partner in the firm of Kelly and O’Sullivan. Involved in the Boy Scouts of America, he was an Eagle Scout and served as scout master. Survived by daughters Helen Chechopoulos and Maureen Jurcak, sons Thomas and William, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Beta brothers William V. ’25 (dec.) and John F. ’34 (dec.) Ruth, Charles H. ’59, December 16. He served in the Army Security Agency Special Operations Unit in Germany. Was active in the oil and gas industry for many years, retiring from H. Huffman & Co. Survived by wife (of 40 years) Janita, daughter Ann Bransford, sons John and David and two grandchildren. Beta father Nelson Y., Oklahoma State (dec.) and Beta relative John R. Young (dec.) Turnbull, John M. ’41, November 4
Dartmouth
Reich, Alan A. ’52, November 8. He was an All-American in track and field, and spoke five languages. Served in the Army as language interrogation officer and was named a member of the U.S. Army Infantry OCS Hall of Fame. He was an executive in manufacturing management and corporate long-range planning with Polaroid Corp. for 11 years. He was later recruited into the federal government’s executive branch as U.S. deputy asst. secretary of state for educational and cultural affairs. A wheelchair user for more than 40 years as a result of a swimming accident, he founded and chaired Paralysis Cure Research Foundation, was president of the National Paraplegia Foundation and founded the National Task Force on Disability. He was a founder of the National Organization on Disability and its president emeritus. Reich was the first wheelchair user to address the UN General Assembly (1981) and received the George Bush Medal for his work on behalf of people with disabilities. The American Association of Retired Persons recognized him as one of its “10 People of the Year” in December 2005. Survived by his wife (of 50 years) Gay, daughter Elizabeth Keane, sons James and Jeffrey, and 11 grandchildren.
Davidson
McAulay, Albert L. ’41, January 14
DePauw
Ehlers, Albert G. ’53, November 1. Beta son Michael A. ’87 Martin, C. Wendell ’39, December 14. He served in WWII as a captain in the Parachute Infantry and was company commander of the National Guard. Was a lawyer in general practice for more than 50 years, specializing in litigation and served as president of the Indianapolis Bas Assoc. He was an Indiana state senator for 12 years and was elected majority leader and president pro tem of the senate. Martin was known as a conservative, an advocate of free enterprise, limited government and individual freedom. Served Beta as a district chief. Survived by wife (of 58 years) Elizabeth, daughter Connie Tipton, sons David and Frederic, nine grandchildren and one great-grandson. Beta son David A. ’70; Son-in-law Stanley Tipton, Miami ’71; nephews William C. Meeker, Wabash ’73 and Douglas C. Meeker, Purdue ’82. Grandson Alex Tipton pledging at Miami. McCormick, Charles R. Jr. ’36, March 18, 2005 Olds, Frederick A. ’41, April 24, 2005. He served in the Army Air Corp as a bombardier/gunner. Taught art and coached in several public schools and Southwestern State University where he helped set up the popular College Rodeo program. His artwork depicted his love of horses, cowboys and Indians, and the West. He was a celebrated painter and sculptor with exhibits world-wide and wrote poems describing most of his painting, earning him the Western International Poets Award for his volume “A Drop in the Bucket.” He was a breeder of longhorn cattle and won four national championships with his Appaloosa horses. Survived by wife (of 55 years) Flora Anne, four children, 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Ritter, Gordon T. ’29, December 28 (at the age of 99)
Dickinson
Hance, Young D. (Y.D.) ’42, February 4. He served in the Army. A tobacco farmer who raised feeder cattle, Hance went on to became Maryland’s first secretary of agriculture. He was inducted into the Maryland Agriculture Hall of Fame in 1991 and continued to serve his community on many committees. Survived by daughters Betsey, Helen and Susan, and nine grandchildren.
Duke
Bertels, Norman H. Jr. ’45, December 2005
Georgia Tech
Jenkins, Thomas H. Jr. ’52, January 6. He served in the Coast Guard and then worked 33 years for U.S. Steel holding various positions including chief industrial engineer. Survived by wife Jane, daughters Elizabeth Kimball and Lisa Robinson, son Alan and three grandchildren. Smith, Hillyer S. Jr. ’43, November 6. He
Spring 2006 Winter 2006
41
Mystic joined the Army Air Corps serving in WWII and served in the U.S. Air Force as deputy chief of the frequency management division. He was employed by Aeronautical Radio and, later, president of Aerospectrum International. He was awarded the Federal Aviation Administration Department of Transportation Distinguished Service Medal for his many contributions to the advancement of civil aviation. He was named in “Who’s Who in Aviation.” Survived by wife Patricia, daughters Lynne Hines and Bonnie Pretzer and four grandchildren.
Hanover
Friedersdorf, Burk ’36, October 26
Idaho
Hawkins, Dr. Bill J. (Billy Joe) ’46, March 2. He had a career as a dentist. Beta brother Talmage P. ’48 (dec.) Little, Scott A. ’84, December 17. He worked in the electronics field in Colorado for several years, later moving to Vancouver working with Clackamas Communications and Multnomah County as an electronic technician. Had a life-long love for the outdoors, skiing, hiking and fishing and a new hobby — with his children — of radio controlled airplanes. Survived by wife Sharyn, daughter Lauren (8) and son Michael (5). Beta father Jack B. ’58 and Beta brother Michael B. ’82. Newman, Julian P. ’34, June 2005 Siddoway, Grant B. ’44, January 23. Beta brothers Denton R. ’43 and James ’40 (dec.)
Illinois
Kohr, Charles W. ’65, October 9 Mabley, John A. (Jack) ’38, January 7. He was a legendary Chicago newspaper columnist, 1957-2004. Prince, Richard W. ’65, September 30. He served in the Army during Vietnam, receiving the Bronze Star. He started a career in the textile and garment industry working as vice president of engineering with Jockey and then president of Leatherette Display Co. Active in community affairs and long-term member of Hospice Alliance board of directors, he also enjoyed sailing. Survived by wife Jane, sons Steven and Timothy, and five grandsons.
Indiana
Eschbach, Judge Jesse E. ’43, October 25. He served aboard a mine sweeper during WWII in the Navy. He joined the Warsaw law firm as city attorney and deputy prosecutor. President Kennedy appointed him to the federal district judgeship in 1962 and President Reagan appointed him to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1981. His judicial career has garnered praise and admiration from lawyers and judicial colleagues. Survived by wife Sara, daughter Virginia and son Jesse E. III. Jordon, W. Craig ’67, February 2005. Survived by wife (of 37 years) Kathy and children. Reel, Leonard R. (Frenchy) ’46, November 24. Beta grandson Leonard R. IV ’03
42
The Beta Theta Pi
Templin, Robert E. ’41, October 3
Iowa State
Goslin, Frederick B. MD ’48, March 1, 2005 Harris, Harry E. ’38, December 5. He was employed by North American Aviation. Survived by wife (of 61 years) Mary Ann, daughter Roxanne, son Richard, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Jervis, John W. ’57, December 24. He served with the U.S. Marine Corps. Worked for Conoco Pipeline and moved to Gulf Breeze in 1964 to begin his distinguished career with Chemstrand and Monsanto. He was especially known for his wit and remarkable sense of humor, and he loved gold and cruising on his boat with family. Coached little league baseball and helped create the first girl’s softball league in Gulf Breeze, serving as the original league commissioner. Survived by wife (of 48 years) Arlene, daughters Susan Kennedy and Julie Crowell, and three grandchildren. Beta brothers Stanley W., Denison (dec.) and Adrian J. Stevens ’48 (dec.) McManigal, Judson H. (Jud) ’55, January 17. He was an officer in the National Guard. Followed in his father’s footsteps as an Iowa farmer and later went into banking in Chicago, Omaha, Fresno, Sacramento and Milwaukee. Survived by wife Mary, daughter Susan, son Stephen, two stepsons, two stepdaughters and seven grandchildren.
Johns Hopkins
Chitwood, Henry C. ’34, December 31. He began his career with Union Carbide Corp. and later moved to Old Greenwich, directing research programs in catalysis, synthetic organic and agricultural chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates and biochemistry. He has several patents in his name. Was an avid collector of ancient coins, duck decoys, antique guns, Native American artifacts and Japanese swords. Wrote a book on decoys, “Connecticut Decoys; Carvers and Gunners.” Parts of his extensive decoy collections are in museums. Survived by daughter Julia, granddaughter Eileen and two great-granddaughters.
Kansas
Robinson, Thomas B. ’39, January. Beta brothers David W. ’35 (dec.), Dr. Arthur W. ’42, John H. ’48, Beta nephews John H. Jr. ’72 and Clinton O. ’84 and Beta grandsons John H. III ’97 and Eric Levy ’03. Wilkerson, Brock E. ’80, August 11. He was elected to “Who’s Who in American Universities” and received the Jack Wolfe Memorial Scholarship for Outstanding Senior in 1980. He was an international purchasing agent for General Electric Plastics and then an account executive for Severn Trent Laboratories until his death. Was an avid runner, competing in 14 marathons, including the Boston marathon in April 2005. Was a soccer coach for the Lenox Girls House League and Travel team, and active in his community. Survived by wife Cathy and two young daughters Elizabeth and Caroline. Beta brother Brian C. ’82.
Kansas State
Koester, Charles W. ’31, January 12, 2005 Rolf, Bruce B. MD ’33, September 27. He joined the Fitch Clinic as a surgeon and infertility specialist, and after the war relocated in West Los Angeles to open his own medical practice with the Shelton Clinic. He was department chairman of OB/GYN for Santa Monica and St. John’s hospital for 37 years. Taught at UCLA School of Medicine as a clinical professor and served with the State Department of Public Health for 15 years. After retiring, he did consulting for the California Clinical Trials. Survived by wife Marie, daughter Holly, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, five step-children and 10 step-grandchildren. Spalding, Capt. J. Eugene (Gene) ’47, October 2. He served in the USN Supply Corps, retiring in 1975 and later worked for VSE Corp as a senior program manager. He received the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and many campaign ribbons including the Korean Service Ribbon with four stars. Survived by wife Corinne, sons Brian and Bruce, four grandchildren, three greatgrandchildren, two stepdaughters and five step-grandchildren.
Kenyon
Lehrer, John W. ’37, February 9. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Practiced law with the firm Smith and Lehrer for 65 years and served as the attorney for the City of Sandusky for 30 years in addition to his private practice. Survived by wife (of 65 years) Mary and four sons. Beta brother Dr. David R. ’40 and Beta son Thomas B., Hanover ’68.
Knox
Carmichael, Dan R. ’29, January 11. Beta son Dan R. Jr. ’54. Ruth, Richard A. (Dick) ’43, February 3. Enrolled in the civilian pilot training program and became a primary flight instructor for the Army Air Corps. He was a pilot and officer in the A.A.C. Air Transport Command during the War. Worked for Eby Brown Co. and Ball Corp becoming division president and executive officer. Survived by wife Jane, daughter Nancy, son Charles A., three grandchildren and two greatgranddaughters. Beta brother Dr. Charles J. ’44.
Lawrence
Bauman, Dr. Roger A. ’59, November 1. He was a noted physician who advanced the use of computers in the medical field. Starting out with the U.S. Public Health Service he did a rotating internship, then radiology residency. While there he first encountered computers. Transferring to Boston, he joined a system analysis study, becoming the assistant director of the Laboratory of Computer Science or Radiology. Joined the faculty of Harvard Medical School, and was the founding editor-inchief of Journal of Digital Imaging. Shortly thereafter, the Society for Computer Applications in Radiology was formed. Active in his community and a sailing enthusiast, avid photographer and model train collector. Survived by wife Margaret, daughters Karen and Margo and son David.
Shrine Morrow, James R. ’38, June 21, 2005. Survived by wife (of 63 years) Jane.
Maine
Mooers, John R. ’49, January 24, 2005
Miami
Less, Leo H. ’44, September 26. He served in the Navy during WWII. A district manager for Equitable Life Insurance, he later moved to Clarence New York and was agency manager until he became an independent agent with Harris Hill Agency. He was a chartered life underwriter and belonged to the Sierra Club. Preceded in death by wife (of 51 years) Flora. Survived by daughter Barbara, sons Bruce and Sean, six grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Stephenson, H. Hiram Jr. ’39, February 26. Beta son Edwin (Ned), Tennessee ’74. (See page 40.)
Minnesota
Barickman, James H. ’47, January 13. A veteran of WWII, he began his career in the marketing department of Pillsbury. During his 30 years in the advertising industry he built his own agency Barickman Advertising Inc. into the largest agency in Kansas City and the 42nd largest in the United States with offices worldwide. Following the sale of his company, he was a senior vice president of Doyle Dane Bernbach and later chairman of the board of Barkley and Evergreen Advertising. Was an active civic leader in Kansas City. Survived by wife Diana, daughters Nancy Greenley and Julie Smith, sons James, Robert and Daniel, two step-children and 10 grandchildren. Beta grandson Christopher Greenley, Kansas ’02. Greiner, Frederick J. ’48, October 4. Survived by wife Viola, sons Randall and Timothy, stepchildren, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Beta nephews Jeffrey P., Southern Methodist ’80 and Bradley K., Colorado ’84. Beta brother Peter F. (dec)
Missouri
Brummell, Joseph L. ’52, October 14. He served in the military and was awarded the Bronze Star and other medals. Owned the Road Runner Travel Trailer Sales for 30 years. Survived by wife Helen, daughters Elizabeth, Susan and Holly, son Ed, 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Beta brother Robert E. ’56. Dawson, Gen. Donald S. ’30, December 25. Survived by wife Virginia, daughters Diana and Virginia, son Robert, four grandchildren and one great-grandson. (featured above on the right.) Ekern, William F. ’44, January 2. Beta son William G. ’72, brothers Herbert N. ’43, Dr. H. Peter ’55 and George P. ’53 (dec.); nephews Anderson E. ’83, Kirk P. ’87 and Nigel, Dartmouth ’87. Finlayson, Col. Hugh S. Jr. ’47, June 9, 2005. Beta brother Dr. George D. ’50. Miller, R. Lewis ’49, June 16, 2005
Nebraska
Glover, Herbert F. Jr. ’41, November 12 Hager, Orval O. Jr. ’40, November 28. Beta nephew Dale C. Hager, SMU ’65. Johnson, Keith O. (Tweeter) ’49, December 25. He served in the Army Air Force during
General Donald S. Dawson Missouri ’30
Donald S. Dawson, Missouri ’30, who as a presidential aide marshaled Harry S. Truman’s crucial whistle-stop tour in the 1948 election campaign and who later had a long career as a Washington lawyer, died on December 25 at his home in Bethesda, Md. He was 97. Dawson was personnel director of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation, created by the government to help fight the Depression, when Truman took him on in 1947 as a special executive assistant. He became perhaps the nation’s first modern political advance man, acting as ubiquitous scout and troubleshooter, a master of the subtle but insistent politics that characterized the president’s bid for a full term in the White House and became essential ingredients for many other successful campaigns thereafter. The whistle-stop that Mr. Dawson organized and commanded was a 22,000-mile cross-country stumping on the rails in which Truman, widely expected to be defeated by the Republican challenger, Gov. Thomas E. Dewey of New York, gained victory with a relentless attack on the Republican-controlled Congress. Dawson was born in the western Missouri community of El Dorado Springs, graduated from the University of Missouri in 1930 and received his law degree from George Washington University in 1938. By that time he had worked for five years as an examiner for the Reconstruction Finance Corporation, created late in the Hoover administration to make emergency loans to help stimulate commerce. He was named the agency’s director of personnel in 1939 and, after wartime service in the Army Air Forces, returned to that post in 1946. By then politically well connected, he was called on by Truman, at first to handle the tactful allocation of federal office space. Personnel again became a special responsibility, though, including assistance in presidential appointments. For a time, he was also chairman of the White House Loyalty Review Board, created by Truman to oversee loyalty investigations of government employees at a time when national affairs were increasingly dominated by fear of Communist subversion. With the end of the Truman administration, he became a senior partner in the law firm of Dawson, Griffin, Pickens in 1953. He assumed the same position with Dawson, Riddell, Holroyd, Taylor & Davis in 1968, went into solo practice in 1980 and, according to his family, worked from home till the end of his life. Dawson is survived by his third wife, Virginia J. Friedland, whom he married in 1975; daughters Diana and Virginia; son Robert; four grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
WWII as a bombardier. Most of his career was spent in the motel business as an owner-manager and broker. He was active in community and civic organizations. Survived by daughter Lynn, sons Scott and David, many grandchildren and one greatgrandchild. Thompson, Charles K. ’52, November 5. He was president of his chapter, editorin-chief and a member of ROTC. He was selected as the outstanding graduate from the law school in 1956 and served in the Army during the Korean War as first lieutenant. A member of the law firm Watson, Ess, Marshall & Enggas for 40 years and Spencer Fane Britt & Browne upon retirement, he was very active in his community, especially the Alumni Association of Beta Theta Pi and the University of Nebraska. Survived by wife Suzanne, daughter
Jennifer O’Neill, sons Brian and Stephen, stepsons and eight grandchildren.
North Carolina
Grant, Roger A. Jr. ’40, March 30, 2005. Horton, Hamilton C. Jr. ’53, January 31. He served as lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and later served on the North Carolina General Assembly as a Republican representative in the State House and subsequently as senator for two terms. In 1977, he served in Washington DC as chief of staff for a U.S. senator. Serving five more terms in the senate from 1995 to present, he was selected as Legislator of the Year by the North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers. He was also nominated to the North Carolina Republican Party Hall of Fame for his outstanding leadership and service, and was a recipient of the Preservation N.C. Gertrude Carraway award. He served
Winter Spring 2006
43
Mystic on various agencies and boards in his community. Survived by wife (of 43 years) Evelyn, and daughter Rosalie Hanes. Rand, Hubert H. ’35, December 13. He served two years as secretary to former United States Senator Robert Reynolds, followed by four years with the Army in the European Theatre of Operations as a lieutenant colonel. He was a former executive with Durham Coca-Cola Bottling Company and Northgate Shopping Center. Was in numerous civic and professional and community activities. Survived by wife Louise, daughter Margaret Martin, son Edward, four grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and a step great-granddaughter. Beta grandson Carl. M. Short ’07, Beta nephews Carl L. Cooper, Davidson ’57 and William G. Rand ’52.
Northwestern
was known as a giant of eldercare in the state and very active in the community. Survived by wife (of 34 years) Susan, daughters Katherine and Mary, and son Daniel. Beta father Kermit W., Dartmouth (dec.) Spickelmier, Thomas D. ’68, October 13. He was a certified public accountant and an avid sports fan.
Penn State
Kerchner, Carl M. ’45, October 30. He served in the Army during WWII in the European Campaign. He practiced law for more than 50 years in Beaver and Allegheny Counties. Survived by wife (of 26 years) Gloria, daughter Kathryn Roeske, son John D., Beta son James M. ’75 and five grandchildren. Langdon, Richard M. ’49, December 8
Brookman, Anthony R. ’47, December 2 Wolfson. Larry M. ’69, June 3, 2005. He was an attorney in Chicago specializing in corporate reorganization. Survived by wife (of 33 years) Cindy and daughters Sharon, Rachel and Anna.
Ohio State
Hanger, Robert J. ’42, February 22. He served in the Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet. Was employed by Welch, W. Va. Milk Company: Dairy Industries Supply Assoc. and the Ice Cream Merchandising Institute. He later became manager of export sales for the Kelco Company with his territory being Europe and South America. Survived by wife Jane, sons William and Robert, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Ohio Wesleyan
Olds, Frederick A. ’41, April 24, 2005 (see DePauw)
Oklahoma
Kemp, Max F. ’49, December 22. He was a successful horse rancher. Beta brother Monte W., Oklahoma State ’42. Sloan, Steven K. ’66, November 24. He was a colonel in the Army, serving in Vietnam. He spent most of his career as a corporate lawyer. Survived by wife Suzan, daughters Michelle Box and Angela Sloan, and two grandchildren.
Oklahoma State
Ingham, Richard G. ’70, December 22. He was a member of Army ROTC and served as president of his chapter. Served in the Army 1972-74 and was a local tax attorney for 16 years, later becoming the attorney for Aging Services, an important part of the State Dept. of Human Services. He
44
The Beta Theta Pi
Stanford
Brown, Philip ’37, February 9. Was an actor who played Luke Skywalker’s loving Uncle Owens in the blockbuster movie Star Wars. Brown worked stage and film for more than 60 years, including the films Tropic of Cancer and Twilight’s Last Gleaming. Survived by wife Ginny.
Texas
Ohio
Smith, Paul W. ’41, December 13. He served with the Army Air Force during WWII with the 454th Bomb group as a sergeant. Taught and coached at Rutland High School, then worked in the psychology department at Ohio University, Fisher Scientific, Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad and then took a position with Borg Warner Corp. He later switched careers to mentor young people as a high school guidance counselor and was active in his community. Survived by wife (of 58 years) Mary, sons Jeffrey and Larry, and two granddaughters.
leasing agent for Wiggins-Gray, then vice president of marketing for Warren Corp. and director of Corp relations and development. Responsible for establishing and supervising broad based programs while putting together more than 200 special events. He directed all fund-raising efforts and sponsorship opportunities. He was currently working on World Fair for Kids 2006 in Orlando. Started Brand Impact, an entertainment marketing company. Survived by his life partner Fredrick Kiehne, parents and brothers.
Tinstman, Robert M. (Bob) ’50 (pictured), November 27. He earned a degree in architectural engineering, ran cross country and played cornet in the band. He served in the Army as an engineer Officer in Korea. In Kansas City, he served in budget and public works administrative positions and was promoted to assistant city manager. In 1959, he became executive director of the Downtown Committee and city manager. Ten years later, he became general manager and president of Steussy Co. He later accepted the position of assistant general manager and budget officer of the LCRA and served as director of administration. He was part owner of Night Hawk frozen foods and chief executive of the United Ways of Texas. He was a district chief and regional director. Survived by wife Lela Jane, daughters Torre Shanks and Tracy Conge, son Robert, six grandchildren and step-children. Beta brother Carl C. Jr., Case ’42 and nephew Carl C., Miami ’67.
Archer, David A. ’69, January 21. He had a courageous struggle as a quadriplegic. Archer enjoyed a long career in sales with Roberson Advertising Co. He was an avid sportman and skier, a formidable debater of current affairs and a man with political convictions. Survived by wife Dianna and son Kirk. Gowan, J. Richard (Dick) ’54, January 20. He practiced law for 25 years at Johnson, Bromberg, Leeds & Riggs, where he became partner in the firm started by his father. Was a member of the Texas Bar Association and an active participant in numerous activities in community. Survived by wife (of 50 years) Grace; daughter Margaret Graham; Beta son John R. Jr., Mississippi ’80; four grandchildren, and Beta brother R. Thomas ’60. Hardcastle, Robert D. Jr. ’60, February 17. A former chapter treasurer, he worked for IBM, United Research and Gemini Consulting. He went on to become senior vice president of Morgan Stanley in Scottsdale, with a passion for the stock market. Survived by wife Nancy, daughters Lauren and Elizabeth, and sons Robert III and Jonathan.
Toronto
Lillico, Thomas A. ’49, December 12. Beta brother James B. ’44.
Tulane
Hale, Fraser A. ’53, November 19
Eaves, J, Everett Jr. ’44, October 10. He served in the Marine Corps during WWII. A lifelong resident of New Orleans, he was President of J. Everett Eaves Inc., an insurance agency founded by his father. Active in civic affairs, he served on numerous boards. Survived by wife (of 59 years) Mary, daughters Nancy, Sara and Mary, and nine grandchildren.
Purdue
Utah
Pennsylvania
Robertson, Don M. ’60, October 16 Shockney, Robert C. ’46, December 28
South Dakota
Lind, Douglas L. ’57, March 2005
Southern California
Escher, Henry J. Jr. ’51, September 28
Southern Methodist
Warren, J. Benjamin (Ben) ’84, December 16. He was assistant project manager/
Haymond, John D. ’38, December 11. He served in the Army Air Corp and spent five years in China and India as a bombardier on a B-26 Marauder. Founded John Haymond Realty Inc. Survived by wife Kathryn, step children, seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Higgins, Marshall H. ’98, January 6. Engaging in one of his favorite activities of snowshoeing, he was overcome by
Shrine an avalanche near the Eastern summit of Mt. Timpanogas. Was an Eagle Scout and served a two year mission. Higgins was employed by Fidelity Investments. His hobbies included hiking, camping, bicycling and snowshoeing. Survived by wife Kelly and two young daughters. Beta great-grandfather Victor Sweet (dec.) and grandfather Richard Sweet ’49 and about 32 relatives were Beta members.
Vanderbilt
Combs, Martin F. ’50, July 29, 2005. Beta Uncle James L. Gavin, DePauw (dec.)
Virginia
Boyd, Dr. Robert S. ’43, June 11, 2005
education, coached football for 21 years and baseball for 30 years, and was the athletic director at Richland High School. The football field was renamed Fran Rish Stadium in his honor. Survived by wife (of 62 years) Betty, daughter Carolyn, son Greg and two grandsons.
Washington & Jefferson
McCombs, Robert A. ’47, December 28. He served in the Air Force during WWII, as a captain bombardier. He had a lifetime career at Aetna Insurance as an officer in the group division and was active in his community. Survived by daughter Barbara Anthony and two granddaughters.
Wabash
Washington & Lee
Washington
Wesleyan
Kenealy, Gerald J. (Jerry) ’61, May 20, 2005 Phillips, Michael J. Ph.D. ’59, March 1, 2005 Williams, Thomas R. ’47, January 2. He pursued a career in private law practice in Portland and Cottage Grove for 20 years, and then completed his law career as senior deputy city attorney in Portland. Was a dedicated jogger, running numerous marathons and Outward Bound programs. Survived by son Steven.
Washington (St.Louis)
Burst, Carl W. Jr. ’41, October 27 Joyce, Paul M. ’54, March 6. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and later practiced law in Phoenix and Sedona. Survived by wife (of 40 years) Theodosia, daughter Jennifer Porzio, son Christopher and one granddaughter. Metzger, Michael D. ’62, February 27. His working life was devoted to education and family. He taught middle and high school courses in history, mathematics and classical languages, and was a recognized author in medieval studies. He taught several college courses, and challenged and inspired thousands of students throughout his career. Survived by wife Judy and three children. Sido, James H. ’39, December 3. He was a captain in the Army Air Force during WWII. Following a career as a chemical engineer with Emery Industries, he retired and moved to Florida. Survived by wife Anastasia, sons James and Lee, two grandsons and Beta brother G. Robert, Westminster ’42. Voges, Henry B. ’41, January 27. Survived by wife Charlotte, daughter Ann, son Henry Jr. and three grandchildren.
Washington State
Hodge, Harold E. ’43, November 20. He served with the Army Air Corp. as a pilot during WWII. He had a 43-year career as a printing salesman in Spokane, and was very involved in his community, championing school levies. He served as PTA president, delivered food baskets to the poor through his Exchange Club activities, worked on parades and activities for the Lilac Festival, helped build the training facilities for the Police Academy and more. Survived by wife Betty and two children. Rish, Francis W. ’41, February 3. He served in the Air Force. Taught physical
Abernathy, Capt. Kenneth L. ’55, October 24 Boyd, Edgar M. ’42, September 24 Eastwick, Andrew M. Jr. ’39, November 22 Goodheart, Harry G. Jr. ’41, October 18 Danzis, Colin M. ’59, October 29 Kaufer, Alvin S. ’54, December 17. He served in the Army and had a career in law as a partner at Nossaman, Guthner, Knox and Elliot. Kaufer was listed in the National Directory of Who’s Who, appears in the Best Lawyers in America and was recognized in the Los Angeles Magazine listing of Southern California Super Lawyers in 2005. Survived by wife Marca, three children, three stepchildren and six grandchildren. Young, Frederick N. ’54, January 11. He served as judge of the Second District Court of Appeals and was former chairman of the Montgomery County Republican Party. He completed two six-year terms, and was president of the law firm of Young and Alexander. He was a state representative from 1968-76. Beta father Robert F., Miami (dec.)
West Virginia
Miller, William E. ’41, January 8. He served with the Airborne division in Europe. Was appointed assistant adjutant general and served under five governors for 17 years. He managed three country clubs, worked for Magnet Bank and Charleston Federal Savings & Loan, and was very active in civic affairs in Charleston. Survived by wife Marty, five step children and seven granddaughters Sigmund, William R. (Bill) ’52, January 16. He served in the Korean War as a first lieutenant. Had a career in insurance and received lifetime achievement awards from the W. Va. Realtors Assoc. He was civic-minded and gave a lot of his time to various community efforts. Sigmund took part in the Beckley Playhouse, acting and singing in several productions. He embraced his Christian beliefs and values. Survived by daughter Rebecca and son William. The William, Ray and Elsie Sigmund Family Fund has been established at the Beckley Area Foundation. A Christian-based fund that will generate income to support interdenominational causes for those in need.
Western Reserve
Stevenson, Col. Charles S. (Chuck) ’44, February 11
Westminster
Buckner, Dr. Ralph G. ’47, December 29. Beta relatives Edwin M., Missouri ’42; Aylette H. (dec.); John T. Jr. (dec.), and Gupton A. Vogt (dec.) Cox, Edward M. Jr. (Bud) ’51, February 25. He served in U.S. Navy, and was a financial investment advisor for more than 50 years for Barrett Fitch, North, G.H. Walker, Shearson Lehman, American Express and Smith Barney. He was an avid golfer. Survived by sons Ned and Stephen, daughter Cynthia and seven grandchildren. Dillingham, William H. Jr. ’50, July 28, 2005. He was a commander with the Navy during Korean Conflict and associated with Citizens Discount & Investment for several years. Owned and operated Peg’s Winning Look. Beta father William H. (dec) and Beta brother Joshua P. ’52. McClurg, Robert B. ’38, August 24, 2005. He worked for Armour & Co. at stockyards, helped establish some of the first cattle feedlots in Kansas. He later operated his own cattle commission business in St. Louis. Returned to Kansas City and worked for the Lake City Army Ammunition plant. McCune, Dr. Edward A. ’52, May 15, 2005. He served as a captain and chief of surgery at Walker Air Force Base, later moving to Enid to open his practice in general surgery.
Whitman
Haines, James B. ’42, October 11. With his father and brother, he owned and operated Haines Fishing Wharf, a sport fishing business that provided tackle and rental boats to anglers. He was appointed county assessor and was active in his community. Survived by daughter Maggie, sons Bill and James (Jiggs). Beta brother Herbert F. Jr. ’51. Strance, William E. (Bill) ’53, February 6. He was a Methodist minister and later a drug and alcohol counselor. He owned Strance Alcohol Programs, which taught private alcohol division classes and alcohol server education classes. Survived by wife Caryl, daughters Elizabeth and Barbara, sons Peter and Christopher, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Willamette
Benson, Dean K. ’56, December 25 Dimond, Dr .C. Arthur ’51, September 26
Wittenberg
Raymond, Edward W. ’37, February 17. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and later worked for U.S. Steel Corp for almost 40 years as chief chemist. He was a descendant of the legendary Woolworth Five and Dime Stores family and served as a judge for science fairs on the high school and collegiate levels for many years. A life member and trainer with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, he was a licensed private pilot. Survived by sons Robert and Edward, and four grandchildren. Strawn, James R. ’73, October 1. He was a partner with Black, McCuskey, Souers & Arbaugh LPA. Very active in his community, he received his Eagle Scout badge and was a swim coach at the YMCA. Survived by wife (of 33 years) Barbara and daughters Cynthia, Catherine and Christine. Beta brother Scott G. ’76 and Beta grandfather Clarence A. (dec.)
Winter Spring 2006
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[The Last Word]
FROM THE
ARCHIVES
Can you guess the location, year and significance of this photo?
WINTER 2006 ISSUE
The image at left appeared in the spring 1988 issue of The Beta Theta Pi. The original caption: “It didn’t take long after Raymond E. Mabus, Mississippi ’69 was inaugurated as the new governor of Mississippi before the three Southern state Beta governors got together. They are: James G. Martin, Davidson ’57, governor of North Carolina; Mabus, and Arch A. Moore Jr., West Virginia ’51, governor of West Virginia. Unfortunately, no one correctly identified the photo!
46
The Beta Theta Pi
Send your answers to: Editor, The Beta Theta Pi 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056, or tolver@wooglin.com Brothers responding with the correct answer will be entered into a drawing to win a personalized brick in the Beta Walkway in Oxford.
The Time is Now
. . . will you answer the call?
“With the initial support of 200 loyal Betas, our Campaign has surpassed the $10 million mark. But now help is needed from “Every Beta” to reach our campaign goal of $15 million. With that, Beta Theta Pi will have the financial resources needed to grow and sustain the kind of leadership programming our chapters have come to expect of us.” – Bert Bates, Missouri ’49, Campaign Chairman
It’s never been more simple!
Log on to www.BetaThetaPi.org/utp/gift to make your gift on-line.
A Lasting Moment The construction of a new home for the Gamma Omicron chapter in British Columbia is a dream come true. The old chapter house had definitely seen better days and the task of raising more than $1 million in contributions for the $2 million project was challenging indeed! When I was first approached for a gift, I was most interested in something that would inspire others to give as well. Therefore, I structured my leadership gift in two parts, with a major component being a challenge match. I was thrilled with the results, as the match component of $100,000 was fully subscribed and then some! My years as an active member of Gamma Omicron had an enormous influence on my life, and the new chapter house will help to ensure the continued success of Beta in British Columbia for years to come. I am very grateful to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation as well, as I was able to channel my gifts through the Foundation, which ultimately found their way to Gamma Omicron under the Designated Education Area (DEA) Grant program. As Beta celebrates 100 years in Canada, the new chapter house in British Columbia is not only strong evidence of the breadth and depth of support for Beta in Canada, but more importantly, it’s clear evidence of what committed Betas can and should be willing to do to ensure the future success of their chapters. Well done Gamma Omicron!
— Ronald W. Tysoe, British Columbia ’73 Ron and his wife Arleigh have four daughters and live in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is vice chairman of Federated Department Stores.
Beta Theta Pi Foundation & Administrative Office Brennan Hall P.O. Box 6277 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056 www.betathetapi.org