The Beta Theta Pi Magazine (Spring 2007)

BETA THETA PI M

Spring 2007

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vo l u n t e e r THE NEXT CHAPTER

“… to help build and sustain the organization that was such an important part of my undergraduate experience.”

Justin Rutherford Chapter Counselor University of San Diego

Professional:

Vice President of Finance, TriPacific Capital Advisors, LLC

Alma Mater:

Northwestern (Rho)

Degree:

2000 - Bachelor in Arts Economics

Hobbies:

Traveling, Beach Activities

I am excited to be a part of one of Beta’s great young colonies at the University of San Diego. Leading the advisory team since the Colony’s inception in 2004 has been both challenging and rewarding. I have had the opportunity to share many of my own experiences as a refounding father of the Northwestern chapter while helping new leaders and traditions emerge at San Diego.

A strong advisory team is a critical component of today’s successful Beta chapters, particularly given the challenges and pressures facing the Greek system and its members today.

I was initially compelled to enter the next chapter of fraternity life and become an advisor by my desire to help build and sustain the organization

that was such an important part of my undergraduate experience. The relationships I have formed while serving as an advisor have made my continued involvement with the Fraternity more meaningful than I ever expected. The men of the USD colony have contributed to the positive experience by embracing the advisory team’s involvement and showing sincere appreciation for our time and contributions.

I am proud of the San Diego Colony’s hard work and dedication that has laid a solid foundation for a strong Beta chapter and I look forward to helping the colony build upon its early achievements. – J. Rutherford

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/V /Vol. 134/No. 4

[Spring Contents] FEATURES

Cover Story:

16 Secrecy

in Beta Theta Pi

Secrecy originated as a necessary part of Greek-letter societies, but is it still relevant for Beta Theta Pi today?

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Not Just a Catchphrase

14

Hokies, Reloaded

ESPN’s Neil Everett reveals a lifelong goal, and tells what brotherhood is to him.

Once called “The Valiant of Blacksburg”

by The Beta Theta Pi, Alpha Phi officially returns with its tenacious spirit intact.

16 Departments 2 4 5 6 8 10 11 12 24 26 30 34 35

Volunteer From the Editor Letters to the Editor News and Notes Books by Betas Marching Along Alumni News Center Stage Campus Leaders Sports Round Up Mystic Shrine The Last Word A Lasting Moment

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20 THE BETA THETA PI

15

A Tree that Grows

20

Steadfast in Friendship

29

Supreme Fortitude

Carolyn White is honored with a simple and elegant gesture for her 30 years of service.

Steve Becker reflects on nine years as the Fraternity’s 10th administrative secretary Justice Harlan proves that it is better to be right than consistent.

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 2007

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[From the Editor] Change is Inevitable As leaders in the Greek community, Betas have a remarkable capacity for identifying needs and implementing the changes they wish to see in the world. They press on, regardless of the perceived difficulties that stem from a calculated departure from the conventional way of doing things. As Benjamin Disraeli noted, change is inevitable . . . and constant.

As editor, I consider myself a “Story Teller at the Bank of Perpetual Change.”

We strive to bring you news and information about the ever-changing nature of your Fraternity, while presenting you with interesting features and challenging you a bit along the way.

Illustration by Roger Warrick Since its inception almost 10 years ago, the Men of Principle initiative has brought forth significant change for the Fraternity. One of the most enduring examples is the view shared by many throughout Beta’s Broad Domain: the men of Beta Theta Pi are living their values on a daily basis. The Three Great Principles are no longer foreign words that echo through chapter halls on a semi-annual basis. The meanings behind these words live in the hearts of our members. To advance the conversation about living our values, Associate Director of Communication MacGregor Hill explores “Secrecy in Beta Theta Pi” starting on page 16.

Significant change has taken place at the Administrative Office during the past decade. While many Betas have enjoyed a front row seat during this transformation, one man has spent the better part of that time backstage, casting the performances and setting the stage for significant advances in Fraternity culture. Administrative Secretary Steve Becker concluded his tenure in late-March. I spoke with him about some of the many exciting changes that have occurred in the Fraternity over the past 10 years. That interview begins on page 20.

Also in this issue, we’re introducing a new component to “The Last Word” (page 34.) Beginning with a beautiful piece written by Associate Editor Steve Brylski about the role of the Beta Sweetheart, you’ll find a variety of guest columnists featured in this section over the ensuing quarters. Do you have something to say about Fraternity life in the 21st Century? Let us know and you may just find your story in a future issue.

Finally, if you haven’t yet logged on to our new magazine web site (launched in December 2006), be sure to check out www.thebetathetapi.org. News and information about chapters, individual members and your General Fraternity are added daily. Features allow you to locate all postings from a specific chapter using “tags” and readers can comment on articles, view additional photos and listen to audio clips from interviews and events. If that’s not enough, check out The Beta Theta Pi Magazine podcast. New episodes are posted online every two weeks.

Darwin’s theory of evolution was based on the ability to adapt, contending that those most responsive to change would survive. We’ll continue to print and mail this historic publication to every member who wishes to receive it; however, as society changes and demand for immediate access to news and information continues to escalate, we intend to adapt accordingly. Change is indeed inevitable. — T. Olver

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The Beta Theta Pi

BETA THETA PI FRATERNITY Founded 1839, Miami University BOARD OF TRUSTEES

GENERAL SECRETARY

David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67

PRESIDENT

P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63

GENERAL TREASURER

Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86

VICE PRESIDENTS

John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56 Kenneth J. Gripsin, Rutgers ’70 W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 Joseph M. Troncale, Alabama ’63 Charles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87

BETA THETA PI FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

W.H. (Bert) Bates, Missouri ’49 James J. Ellis, Missouri ’55 Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82 Garland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52 Thomas W. Hook, Miami ’81 S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73 Jeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96 Lynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 Thomas J. McCasland Jr., Oklahoma ’56 Charles O. McCormick III, Indiana ’72 Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86 Jeffrey N. Newton, Miami ’77 Richard C. Spangler III, North Carolina ’71

EDITOR

Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98

Associate DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS MacGregor H. Hill II, William & Mary ’04

Associate Editor

Steven M. Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Sarah Shepherd

CONTRIBUTORS

Phyllis Bowie; Jay Langhammer; 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 The-

ta Pi Fraternity, is owned by the Fraternity, edited and published under the direction and control of its Board of Trustees, published Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring for $30 one-time pre-paid 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, 2006. Produced in the USA.

DEADLINES Fall 2007 ...........................................................August 15 Winter 2008 ................................................November 15 Spring 2008 .................................................. February 15 Summer 2008 ....................................................... May 15 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 beta@betathetapi.org

[Letters to the Editor] “The Wave”

Upon reading the article about Robb Weller (winter 2007, p. 15) I was astonished to find that you printed that he was the inventor of “The Wave.” After having done my research and watching many a SportsCenter about the issue, I’ve found that the information is false. Crazy George Henderson actually invented “The Wave” on October 15, 1981 several weeks before Robb Weller stole the idea and claimed it as his own. I would have thought the magazine would have done their research also, but then again this article was probably submitted by Weller. Thanks for taking the time to look into this issue and great work on another awesome issue. — Marcus Walter, East Carolina ’07

USC Founding Fathers

I read with interest the three paragraphs covering the record-breaking return of Beta to the USC campus on page seven of the winter 2007 issue of The Beta Theta Pi Magazine. I do have one problem with the publicity. When you mention the 83 pledges as “Founding Fathers,” you seem to ignore the history of our Chapter, and the founding fathers, led by Roy E. “Ted” Naftzger, who came back from the war to finish their education at USC, and establish Beta Theta Pi on campus in 1947. USC Betas have included the sons of former USC Trustee Frank King and the son of former USC President Fred Fagg. — Peter K. Von Hagen, Southern California ’64

FROM THE

ARCHIVES

Wall of badges The Beta Theta Pi Archives is the beneficiary of generous donations from Robert Hanley Jr., Syracuse ’83. Hanley recently purchased multiple Beta badges from the online auction site, eBay, and donated them — eight in total — to the Fraternity. They will be placed with other donated badges in the Wall of Badges display located in the Museum at the Administrative Office. The Fraternity is grateful to Brother Hanley, who continues to purchase badges from Ebay using the screen name rfvhrjr. — Archivist Eric J. Eickhoff, Ohio Wesleyan ’00.

Winter 2007 ISSUE

The image above was taken in the library of the administrative office in Oxford, Ohio in 1957. During the transition from the first administrative secretary to the next, Tom Fey (left), Miami ’40, handed the job to Fred Brower (right), Miami ’50.

Congratulations to Fred Soller, Miami ’50, for correctly identifying the significance of this photo.

Spring 2007

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[News & Notes]

Fraternity Releases New Podcast The Beta Theta Pi Magazine Podcast offers the latest news and information on the Fraternity. Hosted by director of communications and editor of The Beta Theta Pi magazine, Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98, the program includes General Fraternity Headlines, News & Notes, Campus Life, Marching Along, interviews and more. Podcasts are released on alternate Mondays and are available for download at www.thebetathetapi. org. The podcast can also be found on iTunes.

On December 16, 2006, Eric J. Eickhoff, Ohio Wesleyan ’00 married Leah Dooley. Many Betas, including current and former Administrative Office staff members attended the wedding in Richmond, Missouri.

Eickhoff Appointed Archivist Eric J. Eickhoff, Ohio Wesleyan ’00 has been appointed General Fraternity archivist. He will be responsible for the maintenance and collection of fraternal and chapter history, chronicling museum and library donations, and developing and executing strategies to ensure the preservation of Beta’s artifacts and documents. Eickhoff fills the volunteer position that had been vacant since the passing of H.H. Stephenson Jr, Miami ’39 in February 2006, who served nearly 30 years as the Fraternity’s fourth archivist.

During the summer of 2004, Eickhoff spent three months reorganizing the archives and files in the John Reily Knox Memorial Library and the Fraternity archives. Previously, he dedicated three years to the Fraternity as an education consultant. He went on to serve as chief of District VIII and was recognized as the Rookie District Chief of the Year in 2005.

New Dragons Guard the Administrative Office Thanks to the generosity of former General Secretary Tom Cassady, Cincinnati ’76, Mrs. Anne Brown and Oxford artist Jim Killy, the entry gates of the Administrative Office now have solid bronze dragons that replicate the original gift Ed Brown, Miami ’31 made when the building and grounds were first built in 1994. Each Beta dragon is approximately 24 inches high and weighs about 85 lbs.

The Beta Dragon is available to individuals, chapters, house corporations, etc. for a base price of $2,791. Extra costs would include shipping, crate construction, personal delivery, installation, base adaptor and/or alternative patina. The time frame for delivery is approximately 90 days from receipt of a $500 deposit. For more information, or to place an order for a Beta Dragon, contact Jim Killy, (513) 523-8096 or killyej@muohio.edu.

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The Beta Theta Pi

Beta Establishes Colony at Dayton During the month of February, the “buzz” on the University of Dayton campus was all Beta Theta Pi. As a result, the Fraternity’s expansion project yielded more than 100 men expressing interest in joining, more than 115 men applying for the Beta scholarship and eventually 40 principled founding fathers.

The expansion, which began in early February, was led by a fourman team consisting of Director of Expansion and Recruitment JB Scherpelz, Miami ’05; Leadership Consultant Dave Schmidt, Connecticut ’06; Leadership Consultant Joe Kokojan, Oklahoma ’06, and Leadership Consultant Phil Fernandez, Miami ’06.

The 40 include 22 members on the Dean’s List, 13 campus organization officers, four high school valedictorians, four eagle scouts, three student government leaders and more. They represent 10 states and boast a 3.46 cumulative grade point average.

General Fraternity President Tom Purinton presents the Oxford Cup to Hugh McColl.

The Oxford Cup Hugh L. McColl, Jr., North Carolina ’57 Chairman, The McColl Group LLC

Before co-founding McColl Partners, McColl served as chairman and chief executive officer of Bank of America Corporation. On his retirement in April 2001, Bank of America had $610 billion in assets, $352 billion in deposits and $49 billion in shareholders’ equity.

During his tenure, McColl guided Bank of America to some 50-fold growth, acquiring more than 50 companies, creating the largest banking institution in the United States.

McColl received a bachelor of science degree in business administration from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1957 to 1959.

The General Fraternity honored Hugh L. McColl Jr., North Carolina ’57 with the Fraternity’s esteemed Oxford Cup at an evening celebration held in conjunction with the joint meeting of the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors in Charlotte, North Carolina. More than 300 Betas and guests participated in the alumni appreciation dinner at the Quail Hollow Club (home of the Wachovia Championship) on Saturday, February 17.

The Fraternity awards the Oxford Cup in recognition of achievement of the highest order by a Beta. Recipients must be loyal members of Beta Theta Pi, who have brought honor to the Fraternity through distinguished service and accomplishments in their chosen professional fields. Other well-known recipients include U.S. Senator Richard G. Lugar, former North Carolina Governor James G. Martin, Wachovia Chairman and CEO G. Kennedy Thompson and UCLA basketball legend John Wooden. Only 62 distinguished U.S. and Canadian members of Beta Theta Pi have received the award since it was first awarded in 1984.

“I appreciate the Fraternity and I appreciate the honor,” noted McColl. “I appreciate even more my friends who honor me tonight with their presence. I do value my relationship with the Fraternity. It’s interesting that you make friends that last forever, and so I thank my friends for being here. I thank those of you who have come here to allow me to get this award. I am proud of it and I wish the Fraternity well.”

McColl, who served his chapter as president in 1956-57, has left a legacy of leadership as an executive, citizen, parent and fraternity man. His chapter’s motto, A Leader Leader, “is how everyone who has ever known Hugh would describe him,” said his nominator for The Oxford Cup. McColl is best known for his service as chairman and chief executive officer of the Bank of America Corporation, the largest bank in the United States. He retired in 2001.

To listen to a complete audio clip of McColl’s acceptance remarks, log on to www. thebetathetapi.org and click on “Audio.”

Spring 2007

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[Books by Betas] Additional Beta Books MY BROTHER DANNY

Ernest W. Baker, Missouri ’48 My Brother Danny focuses specifically on the unbreakable bond of love that exists between a brother and sister.

Paperback. 173 pages. US$13.95. iUniverse, Inc. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www. amazon.com

RIDERS DOWN

John McEvoy, Wisconsin ’59 Riders Down offers striking insights into the world of horse racing and the possibilities of its corruption.

Hardcover. 264 pages. US$24.95. Poisoned Pen Press. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

A LEADER BORN

Alton Keith Gilbert, Mississippi ’51

Y

ou can stand in awe before everything Bill Bowerman, Oregon ’33 did and still miss the whole point of his

life. Bowerman co-founded Nike, was a US Olympic track coach, made Eugene, Oregon the track capital of the world, coached 16 sub-four-minute milers at the University of

An unconventional warrior, Admiral John “Slew” McCain’s career was marked by courage and innovation, as he emerged from World War II as one of America’s greatest combat leaders.

Hardcover. 304 pages. US$32.95. Casemate Publishing. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.com

Oregon and was half of a passionate, seventy-one-yearlong love story. But Bowerman’s true legacy, as even he

GOLF — LIFE LESSONS

saw it, was his method. He took Oregon’s pioneer virtues

Lanny A. Yeske, Nebraska ’60

of ingenuity and dogged endurance, added earthy humor

Golf — Life Lessons provides clear and concise tips to quickly bring your beginner game down below 100 and then 90.

and developed genius for solving almost every problem that he turned his blazing blue eyes on. In this book, Bowerman — a great storyteller and inspirer of tales — is celebrated for how his irresistible imagination transformed an unsuspecting

Paperback. 227 pages. US$18.95. iUniverse, Inc. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www. booksamillion.com

world. With full cooperation of the Bowerman family and Nike, plus years of taped interviews with friends, relatives,

HONOR RESTORED

students, and competitors, this illuminating portrait is

Denzil D. Garrison, Oklahoma ’51

compelling reading throughout — ample evidence of why

Garrison sets the stage with an insider’s view of the military justice system in the Vietnam War and then advances through the court martial of Randell D. Herrod.

Bowerman’s widow, Barbara, said: “If anyone should write Bill’s life story, it’s Kenny Moore.”

Hardcover. 480 pages. US$28.95. Rodale Books. 2006. Available at www. bn.com and www.amazon.com

Paperback. 242 pages. US$14.95. Tate Publishing & Enterprises. 2006. Available at www.bn.com and www.amazon.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: Steven M. Brylski, Associate Editor; 5134 Bonham Road, Oxford, Ohio 45056

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The Beta Theta Pi

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Service to Country

Thomas Nale, West Virginia ’51. A pilot. A warrior. A Beta. Read the extraordinary tale of one brother’s passion for the sky and the accident that almost grounded him for good.

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Have you ever enjoyed a particular article or disagreed with a certain author? Have you ever been curious to learn more than what was written?

Leaving feedback, providing your opinion, and asking questions has never been easier! Look for the comments link at the end of each online article.

Tell Beta’s Broad Domain what YOU think.

In case you missed it…

The Winter 2007 issue brought a record number of readers online. Here are the most popular articles: Number of Readers 1,344 Penn State Renovation: A Keystone Home $3.5 million gift to the chapter 991

Is there room for pride in Beta?

Undergraduate essay (Web exclusive)

541

Who was Major Ransom?

One of the Fraternity’s most influential members

501

From the Editor Escaping Someday Isle

Unique Features Tags allow you to sort your news quickly and easily.

Audio clips are available from interviews, special events and more.

Extra article content such as photos, text and web links will help make articles come to life.

Always Online Archives. Access backissues of The Beta Theta Pi in .pdf format.

Submit content. Send us your stories, news and announcements as easily as possible.

Inter Fratres Collection From the mind of one Beta’s greats, the Inter Fratres collection was once a key highlight of the magazine.

The author, Dr. Seth R. Brooks, St. Lawrence ’22, was a Unitarian pastor and renowned orator who provided key insights into various fraternity concerns and issues.

News as it happens Get timely updates from your chapter and your General Fraternity. No more waiting around to find the important news.

Spring 2007

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[Marching Along] Michael J. Oliver

Eric W. Reeder

West Virginia ’60

William & Mary ’07

Oliver was named the 2006 Alexandria Times Citizen of the Year.

The city of Alexandria, Virginia honored Oliver with this distinction for his role as “the City’s unofficial goodwill ambassador.” He has been called a “volunteer extraordinaire” and is known as “Grandpa Titan” because of his longtime support for the local football team at T.C. Williams High School, the school that gained fame in Disney’s Remember the Titans.

Michael J. Downer UCLA ’77

The Los Angeles County Bar Association voted to recognize Downer as the Outstanding Corporate Counsel of the Year. Downer heads the legal and compliance department of Capital Research and Management Company, an investment adviser to the Untied States’ largest group of mutual funds with approximately $1 trillion under management.

JOhn A. Kowalski Northwestern ’83

Kowalski hosts a business radio show and celebrated his 50th episode on April 3, 2007. The program, which features guest speakers and key community business people, runs from 7-9 p.m.

(MT) every Tuesday night. His website [www.thejohnadamshow. com] broadcasts the show live and includes a full archive of previous episodes.

William C. Meeker Wabash ’73

Meeker has been named president of the school’s West Campus in San Jose, Calif. After graduating from Palmer’s West Campus in 1982, Dr. Meeker maintained a private practice in San Jose and served as assistant professor in the Division of Research with the West Campus from 1983 until 1986. He was named associate dean of research in 1986. In 1988, he earned his masters degree in public health from San Jose State University. Dr. Meeker became dean of research at the West Campus in 1989 and served in that role until 1995. At that time, he was named director of the Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research (PCCR) on Palmer’s Davenport Campus.

Since 2001, he served as Palmer College’s vice president for research.

Reeder co-founded Students Serve, a nonprofit organization that provides grants to college students across the United States so they can initiate service-learning projects.

He is the associate director of technology, responsible for creating and maintaining the organization’s website. Recently, Students Serve received a grant from MTVu, a division of MTV that broadcasts to 750 universities and colleges. The grant will help further develop the website, recruit new members and start fundraising campaigns. Learn more at www.studentsserve.org.

Christopher K. Eden Witchita State ’00

Eden was promoted as the new marketing and business development manager for Underground Vaults & Storage, a company most known for storing original movie films and business data in its salt mine facility buried 650’ below Kansas farmland.

He is charged with marketing underground storage facilities in Kansas, Missouri and Kentucky, as well as multiple above ground facilities. He is developing a 5,000 square foot exhibit for the new Underground Salt Museum, slated to open in 2007.

Rich C. Taylor Oklahoma ’74

After 26 years with Walt Disney Entertainment, Taylor retired from Disney in February to pursue a variety of other professional interests. Taylor headed the Entertainment and Costuming & Cosmetology divisions for the past 10 years, where he was responsible for leading the teams in creating, producing, casting and operating all entertainment product for the world’s number one tourist destination. His responsibilities included theme park shows, special events, spectaculars, parades, stunt shows, fireworks, atmosphere talent, celebrity talent, Disney Cruise Line christenings, the grand opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and two Super Bowl halftime shows. In addition, he oversaw the Costuming and Cosmetology division that designs, produces, procures and maintains more than 1.6 million garments and accessories at the Walt Disney World Resort...the world’s largest working wardrobe.

Edward “Ted” McNabola Miami ’89

John C. Thietje South Dakota ’61

Thietje received an award for Outstanding Service to the University of South Dakota. He has been a champion for USD and the Greek system for more than 40 years. Theitje served as counselor to the Gamma Alpha Chapter of Beta Theta Pi for eight years. During that time, he was the catalyst who helped USD develop an ad-hoc committee of fraternity alumni whose purpose was to study and recommend how to make fraternity life stronger. The committee remains active today.

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The Beta Theta Pi

McNabola was named one of the top 100 lawyers in the state of Illinois by Law & Politics magazine for the second consecutive year. Law & Politics surveyed more than 1,000 Illinois attorneys statewide who have been licensed for five or more years. The attorneys were asked to name the best lawyers they had personally observed in action. Each lawyer nominated was then given a score based on the number and type of votes received. McNabola was featured in the February 2007 issue of Chicago Magazine.

[Alumni News] Crater Lake National Park

Leadership Consultants Josh Fairchild, Oklahoma State ’05 [top] and Joe Kokojan, Oklahoma ’06 [bottom] explored a few national parks on the west coast immediately following the Keystone Regional Leadership Conference in Portland, Oregon. The pair found plenty of opportunities for adventure and took this photo near a snow drift at Crater Lake National Park, recreating a pose from a 1940s photo on display in the park office.

Betas in Angkor Wat

George Bloch, Michigan State ’57 [left] and Chuck Fegley, Penn State ’57 [middle] have been traveling together with their wives for many years. Their journeys have sent them to Antarctica and Russia and will soon lead them to China and Tibet in the near future. Recently, the couples concluded a tour of Southeast Asia where, by mere chance, were introduced to Don Gragg, Willamette ’55 [right]. Much like Bloch and Fegley, Gragg was a Navy veteran with a medical background who served during the Vietnam War. Here the brothers stop for a picture in Angkor Wat, Cambodia.

Denison Reunion

To commemorate the final time their group could gather while still in their 50s, the Denison pledge class of 1964 reunited in 2006 at its alma mater for a weekend of brotherhood. The festivities included dinner and a rained-out golf match, which, needless to say, only encouraged indoor activities like singing and exaggerating on old stories. The group plans to meet again for its reunion in 2008 and, according to a tongue-incheek comment from Kent Galey ’68, “anyone who does not attend the reunion will be talked about severely and may be tossed out of the chapter.”

2007 Dragon Classic Golf Tournament Grande Pines Golf Club, Orlando, Fla. Friday, August 3, 2007 Register online at www.betathetapi.org.

Centre College

Just as they have for the last 11 years, brothers from the Epsilon chapter Class of 1981 at Centre College gathered in March to spend a weekend at the NCAA Men’s Basketball Regional Tournament. In previous years, they have watched four games in one day or skipped the games entirely to peruse through old local book shops instead. They have had front row mid-court tickets and have shown up with no tickets at all, hoping to haggle with guys on the street. Last year’s tournament [above] brought all 13 surviving members back together.

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Spring 2007

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[Center Stage] James Arness

Richard Karn

Clayton Rohner

James Arness, Beloit ’46, is involved with his official fan website www. jamesarness.com. The website features a monthly message from James and his wife, a complete list of honors and awards from his lengthy career as Marshal Dillon on Gunsmoke, a photo gallery and a way for Betas to send him their regards. His autobiography can also be purchased via the website.

Richard Karn, Washington ’’78, who is seen daily on syndicated re-runs of Home Improvement and Family Feud, has appeared in several recent films. In 2006, he starred in The Fast One and Air Buddies (a follow up to his 2002 Air Bud film.) He recently completed the filming of Mr. Blue Sky, which will be released later this year.

Clayton Rohner, Whitman ’79, has had a recurring role in episodes of the ABC network series Day Break. Other TV appearances have included guest spots on Bones, Weeds, Crossing Jordan, CSI:Criminal Investigation and the miniseries Into the West, which received a Golden Globe nomination. His films include Trespassers (2006), Formosa (2005) and Coronado (2003).

Elias Soriano, Florida Atlantic ’96, lead singer of rock group Nonpoint, has been in the studio working on the group’s next album release. Their 2006 album Live and Kicking was released last November and their hit single, “In the Air Tonight”, reached #34 on the Billboard magazine Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and was featured on the Miami Vicesoundtrack. In March, Nonpoint performed in Detroit at the WWE Superstar Challenge and two of their hit songs are on the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 video game soundtrack.

Stephen Sondheim, Williams ’50, has been involved in creating music for the upcoming 2007 film Sweeney Todd starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham-Carter, Sacha Baron Cohen and Christopher Lee. At the 49th Grammy Awards in 2007, the legendary composer and lyricist was honored as one of three winners of the Trustees Award, a distinct award from the Recording Academy for individuals who have contributed significantly to the recording industry.

Kyle Brandt, Princeton ’’01, left the cast of the NBC network soap opera Days of Our Lives in November after three years in the role of Philip Kiriakis.

Brant first appeared on television on MTV’s reality series, The Real World: Chicago in 2002. He is currently filming the theatrical drama Broken Windows in Los Angeles. Brandt was nominated for a Soap Opera Digest Award in 2005. Check out his website at www.kylebrant.com.

Burt Kwouk, Bowdoin ’53, who gained fame as Cato in the original Pink Panther movies, is still acting and has had recurring roles in British television series Last of the Summer Wine and Silent Witness.

LeMasters wrote one of the premiere episodes of Stephen King’s Nightmares and Dreamscapes on the TNT Network and served as the executive producer of such films as Wild Wild West and Them in the 1990s.

Big League. Lobell’s new Gambit production is expected to star Jennifer Aniston and Ben Kingsley.

Kim LeMasters, UCLA ’71, is creative director at the Institute for Creative Technologies at the University of Southern California. A former president of CBS Entertainment and Stephen J. Cannell Productions, he manages the institute’s creative personnel as well as its partnerships with the entertainment and computer industries. In 2006,

Mike Lobell, Michigan State ’62, will produce an updated theatrical version of the 1967 film Gambit, which starred Shirley MacLaine and Michael Caine. His Michael Lobell Productions company filmed Tears of the Sun in 2003 and he previously produced such films as Honeymoon in Vegas, Chances Are, The Freshman, Striptease and Little

Beta Stars

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The Beta Theta Pi

David Richmond-Peck, Western Ontario ’96, had acting roles in films She’s the Man, Fantastic Four and Unfinished. He has also appeared in episodes of TV shows Smallville and Battlestar Gallactica.

Tim Progosh, Western Ontario ’80, has served as producer and co-founder of the Canadian Comedy Awards & Festival since 2000. The October event has been held in London, Ontario, since 2003 and hosts more than 120 comedians and performers over four days.

* the red color above is PMS 032

Not Just a Catchphrase

H

owzit? That’s laid-back Hawaiian slang for “what’s up.” Kind of like “how is it” but with the syllables mashed together. You could use the term to greet a friend or a brother. You could start a phone conversation or a text message with it. If you are ESPN’s Neil Everett, Oregon ’84, you might say “howzit” every time you start an episode of SportsCenter.

RR

N EIL EVERETT

And that’s exactly what he does.

Since 2000, Everett has been a part of ESPN’s regular rotation of anchors on a multitude of programs and stations. He started his work with ESPNEWS, the 24hour-a-day sports news television channel, and quickly rose to his current position.

Now, he is an anchor for SportsCenter, the flagship sports news and highlights program.

Pre-ESPN he spent 15 years working as an assistant athletic director and sports information director at Hawaii Pacific University. To supplement his salary, he took jobs with local news affiliates, working behind the scenes, but then finding his way in front the camera. Eventually, he became a full-time anchor. He also “My goal,” he remembers from just before he left Hawaii, “was to introduce ‘howzit’ to the American public.”

Just Another Coaster, is available online at www.riversrutherford.com.

Everett (left) co-hosts SportsCenter with Stan Verrett of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Flip the channel to ESPN and his off-thecuff comments may leave an impression on members of the Fraternity as well.

When he refers to a certain Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and Ohio University alumnus, perk your ears. He yells has mentioned on numerous occasions, “Mike Schmidt. kai phi” Yup. He’s a Beta.”

“phi on the air after homeruns and big dunks.

Everett seems playful yet confident about this, almost saying that this task will one day be complete.

That’s the journalist in him — carefully waiting to affect people with his words, and taking pleasure from knowing the impact he has on their lives.

“I’ll tell you what is most satisfying to me,” Everett confirms self-assuredly, “and it’s really why I do this job. It is to say something that leaves a lasting impression, in some capacity, on whoever hears it.”

He also yells “phi kai phi” on the air after homeruns and big dunks.

Yet for a man who makes a living using memorable sayings, he is intensely proud of the one word that has too much meaning to throw around haphazardly.

“You have to decide what your brass ring is, how high it is and how high you’re willing to reach to see if you can grab it. I think most people know what they need to do to be successful or to have a modicum of success, but are you willing to do it. I believe success or failure lies mostly within ourselves.”

“It’s as I mentioned earlier, my most treasured Beta moments are the friendships I’ve made. I can’t recommend enough the fraternal experience; you have an opportunity of making lifelong relationships.”

“Brotherhood,” he states with an even tone of voice, “is not just a catchphrase.”

—S. Brylski Spring 2007

13

Alpha Phi officially regains chapter status

VIRGINIA TECH

General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63 returns the Alpha Phi charter to Chapter President Dylan Kiernan, Virginia Tech ’09.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Chapter Motto: “Our Defense is Brotherhood” Installation(s): 3/10/1877; 10/18/1972; 2/24/2007 Number of Initiated Members: 658 Sisson Award(s): 3 Knox Award(s): 1

The “Valiant of Blacksburg” Return On February 24, 2007, General Fraternity President Tom Purinton, Kansas State ’63 officially reinstated the colony at Virginia Tech as the Alpha Phi chapter of Beta Theta Pi. Joining him in conducting the ceremony was former colony educator Jeff Rundle, Kansas State ’03; Assistant District Chief Puraj Patel, Virginia Tech ’05; Foundation Trustee S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73, and Associate Editor of The Beta Theta Pi Steven Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06.

Although the Alpha Phi chapter was originally chartered on March 10, 1877, the University (known at the time as Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College) ordered that all Greek organizations be disbanded in 1880. New social organizations such as the dance societies of the German and Cotillion Clubs, and local fraternities such as Tau Epsilon Kappa

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The Beta Theta Pi

Longtime chapter advisor, Charlie Comer ’75, attended the installation banquet in 1972 as a pledge.

He has remained close with the undergraduates, serving in an advisory role for 28-years.

“I have seen the Chapter go from struggling with numbers to becoming one of the top fraternities at Virginia Tech,” Charlie states in his typical straightforward manner.

“Their numbers are strong and enthusiasm is beyond my expectations. They are quickly rising to the top of the Greek community once again.”

Of the 160 people who attended the ceremony and subsequent celebration banquet, there were 34 alumni, 67 dates and guests, and 59 undergraduate members.

This banquet marked the conclusion of a recolonization process that began in the late fall of 2003. Since their return, the undergraduate members have remained one of the top-three chapters for grades, held leadership positions across various campus organizations and had a philanthropy featured on CNN, MSNBC, FOX News and other media outlets. During the summer of 2006, the Virginia Tech chapter sent 27 members to leadership opportunities, more than any other chapter or colony.

installation banquet soon thereafter, it cemented Betas official return to Blacksburg after 95-years.

Alumni and undergraduates pass the loving cup around at the end of a joyful celebration.

filled the void in their absence. When Virginia Tech reopened its doors to the international Greek community in 1972, Beta Theta Pi was eager to return, choosing the local TEK organization as the only suitable group with which to merge. The General Fraternity quickly recognized them as a colony of Beta Theta Pi. When the Alpha Phi chapter hosted the first

William Hung ’07 eagerly agrees, “The effort [to return] has been enormous and the foundation for the future is strong. Gaining a charter is definitely a small step in the right direction, but we are not satisfied yet.” He pauses for just a moment, gathering his thoughts. “We should prove everyday that we have earned our charter and truly uphold the dignity of this Fraternity.” – S. Brylski

Grows

A TREE THAT

ust as spring pushes past the final remnants of winter, a newly planted J silver maple sapling teeters in a strong breeze. The trunk sways and the tree’s fragile buds shudder, but its roots are firmly planted in the lawn of the Administrative Office and it holds steady against the wind.

At the tree’s base, a beach ball-sized stone holds a bronze-colored plaque with an engraved message that reads: “Loyalty Tree: Planted in honor of Carolyn White during her 30th year of professional service to Beta Theta Pi, 2006.”

The tree, which is a gift that celebrates a similarly steadfast mainstay, was presented to Carolyn White for 30 years of service to the Administrative Office of Beta Theta Pi. In 1976, when she first took her position as a secretary/receptionist with former Administrative Secretary Peter Barnhart, Miami ’66, she had never expected to look back at a career that had lasted this long. But along the way things change, as they always do.

The administrative office was once a cramped annex alongside the Alpha chapter house on the edge of uptown Oxford, Ohio. The daily operations of the entire General Fraternity were handled by no more than 10 employees including two traveling consultants, the administrative secretary, and financial department.

Now the office is a large manor on eight acres of sprawling land, the number of employees has almost quadrupled and there have been 7 administrative secretaries in White’s tenure. She has seen the many changes that come as quickly and sporatically as the wind, yet it has been has been her infectious laughter and deep appreciation of Beta Theta Pi that has remained invariably constant.

“I just love the Fraternity. Women, of course, will never be initiated, but I feel a closeness with Beta.” Her eyes reveal a flash of youth that could never diminish, as if they smile on their own when she speaks. “My husband and I have just met so many brothers and families at convention.

Seeing them is exciting!”

Such a caring and thoughtful attitude has kept her very close to Beta Theta Pi, an organization to which she did not have a prior connection.

“Loyal” is a term used to describe a person who is rooted deeply in their commitments.

“You have great people to work with,” she explains. “I am just very thankful that I’ve been a part of Beta, and hopefully that will continue for a while. This is a very homey, family-oriented place that makes you feel very welcome.”

“Loyal” is a term used to describe the quality of person who is rooted deeply in their commitments, obligations, beliefs, friends and/or family. It is a term chosen carefully and should be used honestly and sparingly. Loyalty is a condition of love that strengthens over time, growing and flourishing in the same way that a silver maple might branch upward in the spring.

With Carolyn, the term “loyalty” describes a dedication that spans three decades. What better way to honor a woman who has planted her roots so firmly around Beta Theta Pi and who has watched humbly as thousands of boys grow to become men, than to provide a gift that generations of brothers will enjoy? A loyalty tree, which is the very symbol of stability over time, grows in Oxford for Carolyn White. - S. Brylski Spring 2007

15

Secrecy

in

Beta Theta Pi

In the introduction to his book Betas of Achievement William Raimond Baird, Stevens 1878/Columbia 1881 wrote that Beta Theta Pi was, “a secret society, but, as a matter of fact, the secrecy was purely nominal and its aims and purposes might have been freely disclosed without fear of criticism or comment.” Does today’s world offer negative external consequences for divulging Beta Theta Pi’s three principles and seven obligations?

Even if no irreparable damage were to come to Beta Theta Pi, many members would surely be disappointed if the Fraternity’s principles and obligations were posted on the internet for the entire world to see. In the hearts and minds of many, the radiant black enamel of the badge would somehow be tarnished and something about the nature of the organization would be forever changed.

This troubling scenario poses some interesting questions for Beta Theta Pi. Most significantly, why is secrecy important to the Fraternity and its members?

Historical Perspective

American college fraternity origins rest in the fascination with early European secret societies. Freemasons, among others, selected few members for initiation who were instructed in the central teachings and philosophical wisdom of the ages. The organizations were so secret that often their members were not known, causing general public anxiety about their aims, objectives and influence on society.

For freemasonry in the United States, this anxiety boiled into outright distrust due to what would be termed the “Morgan Incident.” In 1826, freemasons were rumored to have killed a man named William Morgan, who was intent on publishing their secrets. While never proven to be true, the ensuing hysteria extended to all societies

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The Beta Theta Pi

that were secret in nature, eventually pressuring the first fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa, to become a purely public honorary society in 1831.

This general distrust was alive and well at Miami University, and other campuses, where members were often denied access to the prominent literary societies if found to be fraternity members. Many were expelled from school. Thus, when Beta Theta Pi was founded in 1839 and in the subsequent years, there was a very real and significant reason to conduct fraternity business with the utmost secrecy.

Slowly, the tide of public opinion began to change.

When the faculty at the University of Michigan forced all fraternity men to give up membership or face expulsion in 1850, the Betas held true to their fraternal commitments. Knowing their association was good in nature they refused to relinquish their membership.

Since the expelled men, Betas included, were publicly known to be of high character, the opinion of townspeople and University Board of Visitors eventually swayed and they began to recognize the value of the associations – secret or not. Shortly thereafter, the Lambda Chapter became the first fraternity chapter to secure official recognition from the University of Michigan.

By the late 1870s the role of secrecy in Beta Theta Pi was vigorously debated among members and in The Beta Theta Pi magazine. The prompt for the debate was the radical proposal by Wyllys C. Ransom, Michigan 1848, to publish a public constitution separate from the esoteric Ritual of the Fraternity to demonstrate Beta’s pure aims and relevance to universities and the world.

A March 1879 letter printed in the magazine from the Rho (Northwestern) and Psi (Bethany) chapters opposed the move stating that the issue, “strikes at the very principle in human nature out of which secret societies grow; that desire to know — to be connected with that which no one else knows or understands; to be regarded with a degree of romance by the uninitiated.”

It was argued that men would rather join a secret group with the luster of old and the allure of secret aims.

Baird recounted the argument in favor of the change in his book, Fraternity Studies, stating, “It was urged that an open constitution would enable the Fraternity to overcome the opposition of college authorities by presenting to them an intelligible statement of the object, aims and scheme of government of the Fraternity; that it would, by being printed and distributed, diffuse a wider and more general knowledge of the foundation principles of the order, and would be a powerful argument in inducing desirable men to become members.”

Looking back on the period in Beta history, Baird remarked, “All the predictions of the committee have since been more than realized, and it is now difficult for us to understand upon what ground was based the intense opposition to the plan.” Baird was indeed correct, considering that successful act of publishing the constitution is now revered as an emphatic example of the Fraternity’s pioneering spirit, the impressive foresight of early Beta leaders and the beginning of a transformation in the fraternity world.

Understanding Purpose

For nearly a century following the publication of the constitution the Fraternity flourished, growing in members and achievements. However, by the 1990s history seemed to be repeating itself, as Beta Theta Pi and other fraternities again struggled to prove their relevance, this time on competitive college campuses.

Universities began to be less tolerant of fraternities that did not live their values or add to the academic mission of the institution. Parents began to take a greater interest in the campus involvement of their children.

Students themselves became extremely selective in where they chose to allocate their time with jobs, internships and graduate school admissions on the line. Beta Theta Pi needed a response to this emerging call for relevance.

Statistics proved that the Fraternity was not beyond reproach with dwindling membership, frequent risk management problems and poor scholarship. These symptoms all appeared to stem from a basic lack of knowledge by its members and application of the Fraternity’s purpose. Former General Secretary Richard R. (Misty) Shoop, Denison ‘41, pinpointed the problem, “. . . we see chapters which have lost touch with our ritual and with our Code. We have members who are Betas in name only, never having been initiated in conformance with the initiation ritual. Unless we are to disintegrate gradually into a loose federation of otherwise ‘local’ fraternities we must place greater importance within our chapters on perpetuating the ritual of our Fraternity and on educating new members in our traditions and history.”

Beta Theta Pi’s response was the Men of Principle initiative in 1997. Fraternity leadership attempted to tackle the issue head on with a new public restatement of the principles and obligations in modern terms — the Mission, Vision and Goals. However, more was needed to improve the Fraternity than a mere republication of its objects.

The Initiative’s philosophy became the centerpiece for expansions, and for many chapters, in recruitment and member education. This has met with great success by recruiting men who first believe in the values of the Fraternity and then share bonds of friendship with like-minded men.

“… that desire to know — to be connected with that which no one else knows or understands; to be regarded with a degree of romance by the uninitiated.”

Further, as part of the Men of Principle initiative, the Fraternity developed numerous leadership development programs aimed at facilitating increased values-based discussions and empowering undergraduate leaders to improve their chapters. Many of these programs feature in-depth sessions about the Ritual of Beta Theta Pi – a key component to facilitating a greater understanding of the Fraternity’s purpose.

Spring 2007

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An Internal Obstacle

Unfortunately, each year at events such as the John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle, several attendees appear to learn for the first time what the three principles and seven obligations are, inspired to enact reform upon returning home. How can members, given a proper pledge period and a well performed initiation, still not retain this essential knowledge? What barriers exist that prevent this epiphany from happening at every campus for every undergraduate? Secrecy may be part of the answer to this question, which hits at the heart of the Fraternity’s efforts to increase understanding and practice of the fundamental values of the organization.

Newly initiated members can often recall the entire founders’ paragraph verbatim or a quotation on the “Beta Spirit” from Willis O. Robb, Ohio Wesleyan 1879, yet they cannot recite the obligations they promised to uphold. The reason may be, in part, that the newest members of the organization are not exposed to the obligations until the emotion-filled moment of initiation.

Just like a nervous groom focusing on not tripping or stuttering on his vows, new members are usually consumed by the experience and rarely absorb the full meaning of revelations divulged in the initiation ceremony.

Thankfully, most chapters revisit what happens in an initiation in some form of post-initiation training. Further, they recite the seven obligations once a month at formal chapter meetings. Still, the number of Betas within the entire Fraternity capable of reciting the obligations would likely fit in a small room. If the seven obligations were no longer secret, chapters would likely make extensive study and discussion of their meaning and application a staple of pledge education, before asking pledges to give their assent for a lifetime.

Newly initiated members can often recall the entire founders’ paragraph verbatim or a quotation on the “Beta Spirit”… yet they cannot recite the obligations they promised to uphold.

As chapter members, Betas are encouraged to take out the ritual book and study the ritual, but the basic fear exists of it falling into the wrong hands. Nearly every member has felt, at one point or another, the responsibility of protecting the secrecy of the Ritual.

One could contend that in this instance the Fraternity’s great advances in education are still somewhat incomplete in the face of secrecy.

A new challenge arises now that Beta Theta Pi has hundreds of Friends of Beta sharing their time and talents with the Fraternity as advisors and leadership experience facilitators. Members become nervous about slipping up and revealing a “secret” to a non-Beta. This relatively new addition to the Beta family has helped many chapters reach new heights while also making some uneasy about the boundaries of secrecy. With a greater prominence of values-based discussions comes uncertainty in distinctly associating phrases from the objects as principles and using direct language from obligations to make points in conversation.

Many members live by the statement, “so full of mystery to the ignorant, so full of meaning to the initiated.”

This is a practical solution for including non-members in values discussions, but often Friends of Beta must simply leave certain conversations for Betas only. A radical alternative would be to revisit what “secrets” should be restricted to members only. While heretical,

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The Beta Theta Pi

perhaps the Fraternity should make knowledge of the principles and obligations available to all, Beta or not. A true, rather than vague, appreciation for what members swear to uphold would certainly promote accountability and improved advising from Friends of Beta.

Such a move would definitely change the complexion of Beta Theta Pi. “Completely eliminating the element of secrecy would diminish the organization and potentially the desire of a person to be connected with it,” points out former General Treasurer John Stebbins, Emory ’92.

“The Fraternity will not fall apart but it would be wrong to eliminate that.” The past practices of the organization support this point and, in their hearts, many members probably agree.

The Future of Secrecy

The basis for the Fraternity’s practices, including maintaining secrets, should be grounded in solid reasoning. For instance, early masons protected their secrets fiercely because they included proprietary construction methods that if learned would lead to the advantage of individuals not necessarily entitled.

Likewise, the use of a secret grip for Beta Theta Pi can enable members from different universities and experiences to identify each other and share in the joys and privileges that accompany membership. This is a very practical and defensible use of secrecy. In similar light, the Fraternity should have good reasons for keeping anything, including the three principles and seven obligations secret. If there are none, they should not remain secret for the sake of tradition.

Fortunately, there are no longer negative external consequences. There are no expulsions awaiting students, no likelihood of being forced into becoming an honor society as Phi Beta Kappa was and no grave decline in membership on the horizon. In fact, Beta Theta Pi would directly benefit from more external constituents such as parents, advisors and university administrators holding members accountable to what they promised to do.

Regardless, that desire to be “regarded with a degree of romance by the uninitiated” remains. Secrecy feeds the basic human psychology of wanting to belong to something special. It entrusts members to protect secrets passed down for generations in that “long

illustrious line” of Betas. If for no other reason this prevalent desire may be sufficient to justify the survival of secrets.

In an 1843 letter, Founder John Reily Knox, Miami 1839, described the inspiration for founding a secret organization, “There was an interest about the actions of men who bound themselves together by vows which were never broken, and who pursued the great objects of their association with an energy that never tired, with a zeal which knew not self, and with a devotedness that never counted gold.” Knox’s interest seemed not to be specifically in having secrets or being a secret society, but in what that society could accomplish through association. The power of Beta Theta Pi remains today in the friendships, shared experiences, growth and personal joy enjoyed through seeing the values of the Fraternity come to life, not the isolated knowledge or understanding of those values.

Interestingly, it was reported by a close friend later in life that Samuel Taylor Marshall, Miami 1840, author of the original constitution in 1839, never “got over” the publication of the constitution in 1879. He could not agree with the reasons for publishing something he viewed as always intended to remain a secret. Are our own opinions rooted in a similar attachment to our experience like Brother Marshall?

Knox’s interest seemed not to be specifically in having secrets or being a secret society, but in what that society could accomplish through association.

A rogue member publishing the principles and obligations on the internet would certainly be inconsistent with one of the obligations and the practices of the Fraternity. But, if someday the entire Fraternity chose to make them public, in an effort to increase knowledge and application of the Ritual, would the luster of the black enamel be forever lost? The charge for all Betas is to ask just why secrecy is important, what should remain secret and whether the Fraternity would be better off in such a future. — M. Hill

Spring 2007

19

ΒΘΠ S t e a d fa s t i n Friendship

The Interview: Steve Becker, Florida ’69

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The Beta Theta Pi

“I remember when Steve first took the role as administrative secretary proclaiming, ‘There’s never been a better time to be a Beta!’ While few would disagree with his statement at the time, Steve made it his personal challenge to ensure this statement would also hold true well into the future. And so it has.

The success we have achieved during his tenure is amazing — solid evidence that the Fraternity has been richly blessed by his service, leadership and vision.”

— Former General Treasurer John H. Stebbins, Emory ’92

“As administrative secretary, Steve Becker had an incredible ability to hire and retain top talent. Perhaps this will be his greatest legacy. He knew that for our organization to move forward, we needed consistency and longevity among our staff. I am confident that this shift has accelerated the pace at which our organization has progressed in recent years.” — District Chief Scott J. Allen, Ph.D., Minnesota ’95

“Steve Becker has brought a valued perspective to the international flavour of Beta Theta Pi. He has worked tirelessly and with great success unifying Beta Theta Pi members across the United States and Canadian borders. Beta Theta Pi could not ask for a better statesman.” — District Chief Jeffrey J. Mores, Toronto ’97

In mid-March, Editor Thomas C. Olver, Central Michigan ’98 interviewed outgoing Administrative Secretary Stephen B. Becker, Florida ’69, who concluded his nine-year term as the Fraternity’s 10th administrative secretary on March 27, 2007. To listen to the complete audio version of the interview, log on to www.thebetathetapi.org and click on “Audio.”

all of the things we have done those are the things that I would be most proud of.

TO: As you were being formally introduced as the

biggest challenge was going to be balancing the interests of all the of the people in Beta Theta Pi who come from all different backgrounds and age groups and certainly that has been a significant challenge. But I could not have predicted at that time the financial crisis of 2002-03 when our endowments reduced significantly because of the reduction in the markets and really forced us here at the administrative office to tighten our belts. And we successfully weathered that storm by pulling together and saying that we were going to keep our family together and continue to deliver services, and fortunately for us our strategy worked.

new administrative secretary in the 1998 Convention issue of The Beta Theta Pi, you said, “There’s never been a better time to be a Beta,” noting a beautiful office staffed with qualified professionals, a large and growing team of volunteers, alumni who really care about the Fraternity and an opportunity to take Beta Theta Pi, indeed the whole Greek system, to the next level. What have been some of the highlights of your experience?

SB: Looking back on that statement now, I don’t think that I really fully understood just how successful we might be, but I think that the highlight for me, overall, has been the achievement of clarity for the organization. By that I mean clarity of purpose, and that’s played out in a number of ways and certainly at least three of the highlights that I can think of right off the top of my head would be the success of the Upon These Principles campaign for leadership development; it’s an achievement that 10 years ago would have been almost unthinkable.

Certainly Beta’s successful expansion program, where we have achieved huge numbers that have been drawn from the Men of Principle initiative and the mission and vision of the Fraternity. And finally, the successful implementation of a really aggressive leadership development agenda that reaches undergraduates regardless of whether their interests may be more in the outdoor type of experience as opposed to the classroom or the experiential leadership development programs. So I think that of

TO: On the other side of the equation, what have the biggest challenges been for you in the past nine years?

SB: I knew when I started in this position that my

TO: Steve, on your watch, the Fraternity has created and executed numerous leadership development programs for undergraduates and volunteers. In 1997, Beta Theta Pi sent only four collegiate undergraduate members to the NIC’s Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI). Ten years later, it is projected that more than 1,400 undergraduates will attend a General Fraternity sponsored leadership program this year. How did it all happen?

“Steve has given part of his life and soul to Beta Theta Pi. With his support, guidance and love, Steve has been the foundation of the Administrative Office and, through his efforts, the professional commitment to excellence has been raised to another level. His successor will have the benefit of Steve’s vision of the administrative staff coming to reality, and will be challenged to continue his traditions. I thank Steve for all that he has done for Beta Theta Pi, and will continue to do in the future.”

— General Secretary David W. Wright, Ohio State ’67 Wright and Becker.

SB: I think going back to the issue of the Fraternity clarifying its purpose, that really Beta Theta Pi answered a call for principled leadership in Canada and the U.S. and for the future, for the world and that this was a niche really that Beta was able to fill at a time when undergraduate students and certainly our alumni were feeling the need for aggressive, principled and dedicated leadership.

Spring 2007

21

“Steve Becker has been the perfect blend of leadership and professionalism that Beta Theta Pi needed in our Administrative Office. Together with Trudy, the Beckers are well known and respected by the Greek Community, and they will be sorely missed.”

— Former General Secretary Jerry M. Blesch, Centre ’60

Becker joined John Birkett, Western Ontario ’65; Shelby Molter, Miami ’54, and The Beta Four in song at last summer’s convention in Toronto.

“Steve has great musical arranging skills —look at the Beta Song Book, 20 songs were arranged by him. He supported singing of Beta Songs and sang Baritone on the CD, The Singing Fraternity. Steve led the Administrative Office Chorus many times, and he discovered the fine young quartet from Oklahoma State, The Beta Four, and has shared them with our conventions. We will miss his support as administrative secretary, but I suspect we will be able to count on him for more contributions to Beta’s music in the future.”

— General Fraternity Song Leader Shelby L. Molter, Miami ’54

TO: Why do you think leadership development is so vital to the Fraternity experience?

SB: Well, I think that it’s just part of growing up as a good citizen and the Fraternity is part of that environment. It’s a co-curricular experience which is offered in the university or educational environment and offers experiences that are not necessarily offered in the classroom. It reaches into all of our futures, regardless of our age or our background or our ambitions. It could be politics, but it is also leadership in business, the church, non-profit organizations. Our undergraduate members and our alumni are the people who will be on the boards of the YMCAs and the churches and all of the services in every community across North America that make our world better.

TO: During your first tour of duty at the Administrative Office in 1992 through 1994 you were responsible for directing the campaign to raise $3 million for the new building here, Brennan Hall. Five years ago, the Fraternity embarked on a campaign to raise five times that amount for leadership programming, ultimately raising $20.1 million.

What is it about Beta Theta Pi today that resonates with alumni, making them so supportive of these endeavors?

SB: Well, it’s really no different than what captures the imagination of donors to any particular cause.

Donors in an environment such as ours first want to know how much you want, what you want it for, but most of all they want to know what difference it’s going to make if they do what we ask of them in terms of a contribution. And I think through our clarity of purpose and our leadership development and the results that we’ve been able to achieve, we’ve been able to strike a chord with our alumni donors that perhaps we had not figured out up until

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The Beta Theta Pi

Former administrative secretaries, from left; Fred Brower, Miami ’50; Ron Helman, Miami ’55; Peter Barnhart, Miami ’66; Jonathan Brant, Miami ’75; Bob Cottrell, Miami ’54, and Steve Becker, Florida ’69.

this point. And fortunately for us our timing was very good and our alumni have responded very positively.

TO: Certainly life at the Administrative Office isn’t all business, right? One of your initial goals coming into this position was to “encourage further rejuvenation of our music program” and you’ve certainly played a major role in perpetuating Beta’s reputation as “The Singing Fraternity.” Why is singing such an important part of the Beta experience?

SB: I look back on my time as an undergraduate standing in the hallway of the University of Florida chapter back in 1965 and listening to my Fraternity brothers singing on their way down to their chapter meeting and the sound of their voices resonating in the long hallway that goes down to that chapter hall and thinking, “Man, this is the place for me.” I was planning on being a music teacher at that time and I learned very quickly that Betas are known for their

“For many brothers, Steve Becker has personified the values of Beta Theta Pi during his years as administrative secretary. As an advocate of building relationships with donors to the Beta Theta Pi Foundation, the organization has moved from a fund-raising philosophy to one of cultivating informed and engaged members. His international flare as a Canadian citizen has reminded us all that Beta Theta Pi serves the people of two great countries.” — Director of the Beta Theta Pi Foundation Jonathan J. Brant, Miami ’75

Steve and Trudy Becker.

singing and so it just seemed like a natural jump for me. But I think that in addition to the fact that Betas have been known for their singing throughout the years, it’s a bonding experience that provides a commonality similarly to our ritual that Betas from wherever they may be will hear those sounds and hear those words and know that they have brothers and it’s an experience we all share. I believe that that’s why it’s such an important part of the experience of being a Beta that perhaps is missing when the music is not there.

TO: You’ve often said that while leaving a job is easy, leaving people isn’t. Talk a little about the relationships you’ve formed as a result of serving as administrative secretary.

SB: Being in this central role, I have the great fortune of being able to connect with Betas at all walks of life. And of course part of that is speaking with and forming relationships with people that I would never have met any other way. Certainly I never would have known a man like Captain Jerry Blesch or Senator Richard Lugar or some of our great volunteers like Dan Farmer and Misty Shoop.

And I think back on some of the other great folks that I read about in my pledge manual like H.H. Stephenson and Burt Folsom and my predecessors Bob Cottrell and Fred Brower. Of course, it’s been just a great pleasure to be able to meet and interact with these people on a personal basis and count them amongst my friends for the rest of my life and of course in addition to that all the great young men who have come through our office, 60 or 70 of them in the last 10 years. It’s just been an absolutely spectacular experience that I couldn’t match any other way, certainly not in the business world.

TO: Steve, you once commented that if you had one wish for Beta Theta Pi, it would be “that our young brothers have the kind of undergraduate

experience that makes them want to continue their relationship with Beta throughout their lifetimes.”

Mission accomplished?

SB: Partially, Tom. I think we’ve accomplished a great deal of that mission. We’re certainly seeing many more Betas continue their involvement through volunteerism and alumni activities. Having said that, I think we have a long way to go toward engaging our alumni and our undergraduates in a lifetime commitment to Beta Theta Pi. It is part of the bridge building concept and I think we’ve made great inroads. We see much more activity both in the fundraising area, but certainly not just there, but also in the area of volunteerism. Now Beta can count amongst its ranks over a thousand active and involved volunteers and certainly that is a great credit but we could use many more.

TO: What’s next for you?

SB: I am going back home to Toronto and I’m going to re-enter the non-profit consulting world. I’ll be working with schools, hospitals and social services in the Toronto area. And as luck would have it, I am associated with a young Beta that I hired back in 1990, his name is Ross Marsh and he has a very successful consulting practice in Calgary and I’ll be representing him and his firm in Toronto. It’s really part of my personal mission, whether it be Beta or in my professional life that’s about trying to make the world just a little better.

“A culture of professional development has blossomed within the Administrative Office — over the past 10 years, seven staff members earned a masters degree while working for the Fraternity. Equally as impressive, more than 65% of former staff members went on to earn a masters degree after their staff experience. Obviously, the staff has truly embraced cultivation of the intellect under Steve’s leadership.”

— Director of Chapter Services Judson A. Horras, Iowa State ’97 Steve with Administrative Office Staff, 2004.

TO: Steve, thanks so much for your time and definitely for your service. It’s been an absolute honor and privilege for me to serve with you over these past eight years and I wish you absolutely nothing but the best.

SB: Well, the feeling is entirely mutual. Thank you, Tom. Spring 2007

23

C

campus leader INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL PRESIDENTS Sean Kearney, British Columbia ’08 Brett Lipensky, Central Florida ’07 Andrew Callahan, Connecticut ’07 Daniel Moon, DePauw ’08 Jake Kuhnline, Knox ’07 Jim Barry, Missouri ’07 Zachary Smith, North Dakota ’08 Walter Williamson III, Ohio ’08 Matthew Brawner, Truman State ’07 Mike Halverson, Utah ’08 Brett Richman, Westminster ’08 Ryan Bares, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’07

David White, Utah ’09 (operations chairman) Mark Eberly, Virginia Tech ’09 (treasurer) Jay Horrey, Wabash ’09 (treasurer) Cartter Berg, Washington ’09 (vice president, administration) Ryan Sayers, Washington & Jefferson ’09 (chief justice) Richard Juang, Washington in St. Louis ’07 (vice president, community outreach) Bob Heck, Willamette ’07 (vice president, recruitment) Brian Nelson, Willamette ’08 (vice president, public relations) Chris Susa, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’07 (vice president, membership development) Chad Holbein, Wittenberg ’09 (assistant recruitment chairman) Jeff Schak, Wittenberg ’09 (assistant public relations chairman)

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL OFFICERS

STUDENT GOVERNMENT PRESIDENTS Kevin McEvoy, DePauw ’07 Matt King, Kansas State ’08 Neil Cavanaugh, Rhode Island ’07 Barclay Harless, South Florida ’08

STUDENT GOVERNMENT OFFICERS

Will Evans, Alabama ’10 (senator) Cameron Warner, Arizona ’08 (director of marketing) Sean Kearnery, British Columbia ’08 (science representative) Kyle Olney, California-Irvine ’08 (legislative council) Matt Adams, Carnegie Mellon ’08 (senator) Brett Lipensky, Central Florida ’07 (senator) Raymond Wise, Central Florida ’08 (senator) Jamelle Dooley, Central Michigan ’10 (senator)* Jordan Brewer, Cincinnati ’10 (senator) Galen Crawford, Cincinnati ’08 (senator) Stephen Lareau, Clemson ’08 (senator) John Thomas, Clemson ’08 (senator) Jose Machado, Connecticut ’08 (education senator) Ben Hobbs, Denison ’10 (freshman senator) Ian MacLeod, DePauw ’07 (vice president, finance) Matthew Seal, DePauw ’07 (sergeant at arms) Andy Bender, Eastern Kentucky ’07 (senator) Jason Gavinski, Eastern Washington ’07 (chief justice) Christopher Denton, Florida ’08 (senator) Paul Lowe, Florida Atlantic ’08 (governor) Connor McCarthy, Georgia ’10 (senator & academic affairs chairman) Tyler Rump, Hanover ’08 (senator) Mike Barker, Idaho ’08 (senator) James Smith, Idaho ’10 (retail coordinator) William Bennett, Indiana ’09 (sophomore delegate & task force leader) Anthony Moorman, Indiana ’07 (congressman) Matthias Franzen, Iowa ’08 (senator) Ryan Kennedy, Iowa State ’10 (public relations committee chairman) Justin Brown, Kansas ’07 (senior senator) Phil Linville, Kansas ’09 (sophomore senator) Luke Thompson, Kansas ’07 (student rights committee chairman) David Wilcox, Kansas ’10 (freshman senator) Matt King, Kansas State ’08 (chairman of governmental relations) Jim Mosimann, Kansas State ’08 (senator) Zach Oswald, Kansas State ’08 (senator) Matt Woodward, Kansas State ’08 (senator) Bryan Lund, Knox ’09 (senator) Chris Lechner, Loyola Marymount ’07 (senator) Jeremy Harrell, Miami ’08 (executive vice president) Jeff Holtz, Minnesota ’07 (senator) Bart Reising, Mississippi ’08 (university judicial chairman) Walter Williamson III, Ohio ’08 (FAC chairman) J.J. Camp, Purdue ’07 (senator) Brad Bahler, Rhode Island ’08 (college of nursing chairman) Ryan Battis, Rhode Island ’08 (vice president) Bryan Christopher, Rhode Island ’10 (senator) Josh Feinberg, Rhode Island ’08 (college of arts & sciences chairman) Ben Matone, Rhode Island ’07 (external affairs chairman) Drew Meslink, Rhode Island ’10 (senator) Ryan Mitchell, Rhode Island ’07 (senator) Alex Pouris, Rhode Island ’08 (senator) Christopher Barondeau, South Dakota ’08 (senator) Steven Gaughan, Southern California ’10 (assistant director of diversity affairs) Ward Sandler, Stevens ’08 (senator)

C

Braden Bell, Alabama ’09 (judicial affairs director) Andrew Baranowski, Arizona ’08 (philanthropy advisory board) Cameron Warner, Arizona ’08 (vice president, programming) Ron Ermlick, Bethany ’09 (secretary & treasurer) Adam McBride, British Columbia ’07 (treasurer) Rob McLean, British Columbia ’08 (2nd vice president) Mike Scott, British Columbia ’09 (secretary) Daniel Greenhaw, California-Irvine ’08 (vice president, risk management) Kyle Olney, California-Irvine ’08 (executive vice president) Brian Chung, California-Los Angeles ’08 (internal vice president) Joe Cole, California-Santa Barbara ’08 (activities chairman) Todd Demler, Carnegie Mellon ’08 (judicial board) Vinny Giacalone, Carnegie Mellon ’09 (community standards chairman) Cody Rutledge, Case Western Reserve ’09 (judicial board justice) Matt Seier, Case Western Reserve ’09 (vice president, administration) Marc Berkovits, Central Florida ’08 (head Greek life consultant) Chris Boulmetis, Central Florida ’07 (head Greek life consultant) Julian Edelschick, Central Florida ’07 (head Greek life consultant) Jeff Forman, Central Florida ’07 (vice president, new member education) Michael Mollo, Central Florida ’08 (vice president, risk management) Mark Schaal, Central Florida ’09 (webmaster) Brandon Burtner, Eastern Kentucky ’09 (constitution & bylaws chairman) Michael Shapiro, Florida ’10 (director of scholarship) Nicolas Jones, Florida Atlantic ’07 (treasurer) Andrew Rebar, Florida Atlantic ’10 (chairman) Whitney McClung, Georgia ’09 (scholarship committee chairman) Cody Clouse, Hanover ’09 (executive vice president) Keith Nida, Idaho ’08 (public relations chairman) Logan McDarment, Idaho ’07 (Greek week chairman) Branden Hayward, Indiana ’08 (director of public relations) Dan D’Orlando, Johns Hopkins ’07 (vice president) Peter Curzon, Kansas ’08 (vice president, inter-fraternal relations) Michael Raupp, Kansas ’07 (chief justice) Tim Beishir, Knox ’08 (recruitment chairman) Dan Hertel, Lawrence ’09 (vice president, Greek affairs) Dave Lofstrom, Lawrence ’08 (vice president, operations) Kayvon Golshani, Miami ’08 (vice president, programming) Matt Sivard, Miami ’08 (vice president, new member education) Kyle McDonald, Michigan ’09 (recruitment task force) Brian Kniert, North Dakota ’05 (judge) Fritz Eggen, Northwestern ’06 (judicial board) Michael Kane, Northwestern ’08 (meal plan task force) Andrew Lange, Northwestern ’09 (vice president, scholarship & philanthropy) Waseem Mathews, North Dakota ’09 (justice) Matt Ehrman, Ohio State ’09 (justice) Nick Libertin, Ohio State ’08 (risk management, Greek week) Reuben Asia, Penn ’08 (executive vice president) Nur Chapman, Purdue ’08 (director of publicity) Brien Donahue, Purdue ’08 (chief justice) Tommy Pierce, Purdue ’08 (lower board chairman) Ryan Battis, Rhode Island ’08 (parliamentarian) Victor Beall, San Jose State ’09 (scholarship chairman) Mike Bowman, South Florida ’08 (vice president, risk management) Miles Bardell, Southern Illinois ’07 (treasurer) Matthew Reihl, Stevens ’09 (philanthropy & social chairman) Kent Gaskin, Texas ’09 (judicial board) Madison Marceau, Texas A&M ’08 (director, philanthropy & comm. service) Taylor Hutcherson, Texas Tech ’09 (recruitment chairman) Steven Maria, Texas-Arlington ’09 (vice president, programming) William Spring, Texas-Arlington ’07 (vice president, recruitment) Graeme Allen, Truman State ’08 (secretary)

24

The Beta Theta Pi

ers

C C Clockwise from far left; Dan Hertel, Lawrence ’09; Cameron Warner, Arizona ’08; Brian Nelson, Willamette ’08; Braden Bell, Alabama ’09; Daniel Greenhaw, California-Irvine ’08; Nicolas Jones, Florida Atlantic ’07; Matt Alex, Willamette ’08; Keith Nida, Idaho ’08; Barclay Harless, South Florida ’08

Todd Hunter, Texas A&M ’08 (off-campus senator) Madison Marceau, Texas A&M ’08 (budget allocation committee) Taylor Hutcherson, Texas Tech ’09 (external vice president) Brandt Bell, Truman State ’08 (organizational representative) A.J. Mullins, Utah ’08 (member elect) Gavin Tully, Villanova ’07 (senator for the college of engineering) Sean Clerget, Wabash ’09 (senator) Adam Deal, Washington & Jefferson ’07 (treasurer) Carlos Abreu, Washington in St. Louis ’09 (chairman of financial advisory & review board) Marius Johnson, Washington in St. Louis ’09 (budget committee co-chairman of the treasury) Robby Zak, West Virginia ’08 (attorney general) Matt Alex, Willamette ’08 (senator) Bob Heck, Willamette ’07 (senator) Casey Sparks, Willamette ’09 (senator) Ray Ciabattoni, William & Mary ’10 (senator) Brett Phillips, William & Mary ’08 (senator) Shariff Tanious, William & Mary ’08 (senator) Thomas Becker, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’09 (senator) Nathan Gribowski, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’07 (senator & director of Greek life) Chris Susa, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’07 (senator) Thomas Wolf, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’10 (senator)

CLASS OFFICERS

Chris Brubaker, Iowa State ’10 (historian, freshman council) Jake Kuhnline, Knox ’07 (president) Paul Saridakis, Ohio State ’08 (honorary bucket & dipper) Ward Sandler, Stevens ’08 (president) David Ross, Washington in St. Louis ’09 (president) Bob Heck, Willamette ’07 (president) Nick Faulkner, William & Mary ’08 (president) Brad Potter, William & Mary ’08 (vice president)

ORDER OF OMEGA OFFICERS

Tyler Poston, Alabama ’08 (president) Thomas Masterson, British Columbia ’07 (outgoing president) Adam McBride, British Columbia ’07 (outgoing vice president) Rob McLean, British Columbia ’08 (president) Brian Quittenton, British Columbia ’07 (secretary) Dima Yagnyuk, British Columbia ’08 (vice president) Steve Springer, Carnegie Mellon ’08 (treasurer) Cody Vild, Carnegie Mellon ’08 (vice president) Zachary Marquand, DePauw ’07 (president) Michael Schoenhals, Kansas ’07 (president) Gunnar Jacobs, Penn ’07 (vice president) Thomas Todd, Texas Tech ’07 (vice president) John Sturgeon, Truman State ’08 (president) Nathan Gribowski, Wisconsin-Oshkosh ’07 (president) * For a listing of other notables, log on to www.thebetathetapi.org.

HONORARY SOCIETY & FRATERNITY OFFICERS

Donald D onald Stephenson, Alabama ’08 (treasurer, Beta Alpha Psi) Andrew Baranowski, Arizona ’08 (selections chairman, Chain Gang Andrew Junior Honorary) Cameron Warner, Arizona ’08 (social chair & tutor coordinator, Cameron Pi Sigma Alpha) John Larson, California-Los Angeles ’08 (corporate relations, Eta Kappa Nu) Jordan Brewer, Cincinnati ’10 (ritual chair, Alpha Kappa Psi) Jordan Theo Leakas, Cincinnati ’08 (inspector general, Persian Rifles Military Fraternity) Jeffrey Lickfelt, Cincinnati ’07 (treasurer, Eta Kappa Nu) Jeffrey Thomas Hamilton, Colorado Mines ’07 (rush chairman, Pi Epsilon Tau) Thomas Chris Hutchins, Colorado State ’08 (vice president, marketing, Chris Alpha Kappa Psi) Michael Collis, Cornell ’08 (historian, Alpha Phi Omega) Michael James Gehring, DePauw ’07 (vice president, communications, Mortar Board Senior Honorary) Albert Marrero, Florida International ’08 (webmaster, Alpha Kappa Psi) Kenneth Henderson, Idaho ’08 (webmaster, Golden Key Honor Society) Thomas T homas Mazula, Iowa State ’09 (president, Alpha Lambda Delta/ Phi Eta Sigma) James DiGiuseppe, Kansas ’07 (treasurer, Mortar Board Senior Honorary) Eric Gourley, K Kansas ansas ’07 (treasurer, Phi Lambda Sigma) Bailor Hardman, Kansas ’08 (social chair, Owl Society) Trevor Nohe, K Kansas ansas ’07 (vice president, Beta Gamma Sigma) Brian Reynolds, Kansas ’08 (president, Owl Society) Ryan Staub, K Kansas ansas ’08 (treasurer, Owl Society) Rob Williams, Kansas ’07 (president, Mortar Board Senior Honorary) Patrick Karcz, Kansas State ’08 (vice president, programs, Beta Alpha Psi) Matt King, K Kansas ansas State ’07 (director of external relations, Blue Key Honorary Society) Brad Scheu, K Kansas ansas State ’07 (treasurer, Mortar Board Senior Honorary) Max Jones, L Loyola oyola Marymount ’10 (president & co-founder, Lambda Pi Eta) Reid Spearin, Michigan ’08 (brother warden, Alpha Kappa Psi) Jim Barry, M Missouri issouri ’07 (vice president, Beta Alpha Psi) Daniel Fletcher, Missouri ’07 (vice president, Beta Alpha Psi; vice president, recruitment, Mortar Board Senior Honorary) Dan Howard, Missouri ’08 (vice president, Beta Alpha Psi) Bryce Johnson, Missouri ’06 (president, Beta Alpha Psi; treasurer, Omicron Delta Kappa) Bryant Sombke, North Dakota ’08 (treasurer, Upsilon Pi Epsilon) Healey Cypher, Penn ’07 (president, Wharton Honor Society) Paul Mule, P Penn enn ’07 (vice president, pledge education, Delta Sigma Pi) Matt Perkins, Penn ’07 (president, Hexagon Senior Engineering Society) Steven Keyworth, Purdue ’07 (recruitment chairman, Delta Sigma Pi) Eric Oakes, P Purdue urdue ’07 (recruitment chairman & pledge educator, Honorary Society of Gimlet) Bryan Campbell, Truman State ’07 (secretary, Eta Sigma Gamma) Jordan McGaughey, Truman State ’07 (secretary, Blue Key) Paul Rotert, Truman State ’08 (blood drive chairman, Blue Key Honorary Society) Phil Sholts, Washington in St. Louis ’08 (community service chairman, Chimes Junior Honorary)

Spring 2007

25

Sports R [Sports RoundUp] Basketball

The Fraternity’s top player from the winter season was Wabash forward Andrew Zimmer ’08, who was named to the D3hoops.com All-Great Lakes Region third team, the All-NCAC first team and the NCAC All-Tournament Team. He led the team in scoring with 490 points (19.6 per game), rebounding (7.8 per game), minutes played (768), blocked shots (40) and steals (26). Among his top games were 35 points against Earlham, 34 points and nine rebounds versus Kenyon and 31 points, nine rebounds in the Lakeland game. Teammate Chase Haltom ’10 was second in

Whitman co-captain/forward Aaron Hazel ’07 led the team in field goal shooting (65.7%) and blocked shots (22), while ranking second in rebounding (5.2 per game). He missed part of the season with a broken hand but still scored 220 points (11.0 per game). His top performance of 21 points, eight rebounds came against Lewis & Clark College.

Forward Cade House ’08 was the only player to start every game for the 15-9 Westminster squad. He led with 15 blocked shots, scored 132 points (5.5 per game) and grabbed 88 rebounds (3.7 per game).

Playing a key role for Knox was guard Josh Moten ’08 who started 22 contests and had a best game of 26 points versus Grinnell. He led with a 50.3% shooting from the field, 47 assists and 17 blocked shots while handing out 31 assists. He scored 221 points (9.6 per game), was third in minutes played (552) and had 86 rebounds (3.7 per game). Playing in 15 contests for Knox was guard Rusty Coon ’08.

Andrew Zimmer Wabash ’08

scoring with 285 points (10.6 per game), second in assists (47) and led in three-point goals (41). Also playing for Wabash were guards Collin Smith ’09 and Justin Froedge ’10.

Four Betas led Hanover to a 14-11 record. Forward Brock Dawson ’08 ranked second in assists with 49, scored 170 points (7.4 per game) and had 20 steals.

Guard Desmond Jordan ’10 totaled 167 points (7.0), pulled down 89 rebounds (3.7), made 41 assists and had 27 steals.

26

The Beta Theta Pi

Brock Dawson Hanover ’08

Roundup Coach Mark Edwards, Washington-St. Louis ’69, led his alma mater to a school-record tying 25-5 mark and its first appearance in the NCAA Division III Final Four.

He was named D3hoops.com Midwest Region Coach of the Year and now has a career record of 451-228 after 26 seasons as head coach.

Center Chris Ayers, Loyola Marymount ’06, helped lead the Oita Heat Devils squad, a professional Japanese team, to the playoffs.

Swimming Six undergraduates led DePauw to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) championship. Brock Sisc ’08 won the 200 backstroke (1:57.29) and 400 individual medley Dan Mancuso (55.86) while placing third Washington & Jefferson ’09 in the 200 IM. Greg Nowak ’09 was on four winning relays: 200 freestyle, 200 medley, 400 freestyle and 800 freestyle. He also placed third in the 200 freestyle, fifth in the 100 freestyle and seventh in the 50 freestyle. Gib Wallace ’09 swam on the first place 200 medley and 400 medley relays and placed fifth in the 100 backstroke, seventh in the 200 backstroke and ninth in the 200 IM. Michael Young ’07 was on the winning 400 medley relay team, placed fourth in the 100 breaststroke and placed 10th in the 200 IM and 200 breaststroke. Zach Marquand ’07 was sixth in the 1650 freestyle, seventh in the 200 freestyle and eighth in the 200 freestyle.

The Washington & Jefferson squad featured seven Beta swimmers. Dan Mancuso ’09 placed first in the President’s Athletic Conference (PAC) 200 butterfly (1:57), second in the 500 freestyle, third in the 400 IM and third in the 800 freestyle relay. He also swam on the fifth place 400 medley relay. Ed Werner ’09 set a 100 backstroke school record (54:16) during a second place PAC finish. He was also fifth in the 100 butterfly, 200 IM and on the 400 medley relay. Zach Nigrelli ’09 swam on three third place relays: 200 freestyle, 200 medley and 800 freestyle. Nigrelli placed fifth in the

200 freestyle, seventh in the 100 freestyle and ninth in the 50 freestyle.

A leader for the W&J squad was co-captain Aaron DiNardo ’07. He swam on the third place 200 freestyle relay while placing 11th in the 100 and 200 backstroke and 12th in the 50 freestyle. Ryan Sagers ’09 placed fourth in the PAC one-meter and three-meter diving events. Co-captain Ryan Johnson ’07 (13th in the 200 freestyle, 14th in the 500 freestyle) and Brent Johnson ’08 (13th in the 100 butterfly) swam for W&J. At the EISL meet, Colin Stalnecker ’08 of Yale was on the fourth place 400 medley relay, placed fifth in the 200 breaststroke and was sixth in the 100 breaststroke. Joining him on the Yale squad were Kevin Pudas ’07 and Gjorgji Gjeorgjievski ’08. A leading diver on the Colgate squad was Richard Hamlin ’07.

Two of the top swimmers at Puget Sound are Betas.

At the Northwest Conference meet, Garrett Gentling ’09 was on the winning 200 medley relay, swam on the third place 200 freestyle relay, placed fifth in the 200 backstroke and ninth in the 200 IM. Teammate James Lee ’09 was on the third place 800 freestyle relay, placed fifth in the 100 backstroke, was sixth in the 200 backstroke and finished seventh in the 500 freestyle.

Diver Dave Wilkinson ’09 of Wesleyan took first place honors in one meter and three meter diving at the Cardinal Invitational. At the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) meet, he was fifth at one-meter and seventh at three-meters.

Five Betas competed for Lawrence at the Midwest Conference (MWC) meet. Matt Yauch ’09 placed fourth in the 200 breaststroke, 200 medley relay and 200 freestyle relay, fifth in the 100 breaststroke and 14th in the 200 IM. Kyle Griffin ’09 was fourth on the 800 freestyle relay, fifth in the 400 IM, 1650 freestyle and 400 freestyle relay and sixth in the 500 freestyle.

Diver Bryan Rosen ’08 placed fourth at one-meter and fifth at three-meters. Adam Gorham ’08 finished 12th in the 100 butterfly and co-captain Patrick Jordan ’08 was 15th in the 1650 freestyle. Matt Johnson, Wittenberg ’07, competed in three events at the

Spring 2007

27

Sports R North Coast Athletic Conference meet and Jacob Ruth, Case Western Reserve ’09, swam freestyle.

Wrestling

Heavyweight Jaran Rutledge, Knox ’08, won All-American Honors at the NCAA Division III national championship where he placed third. He had a 36-5 record and won titles at the Central College Invitational, Northern Wrestling Association (NWA) tournament and the Great Lakes Regional meet. Also competing for Knox at the NWA meet were Marty Dertz ’09 (184 lbs), Luke Karner ’09 (165 lbs), Chris Carpenter ’07 (197 lbs), Grant Guimond ’09 (157 lbs) and

Jaran Rutledge Knox ’08

Drew Moreno ’09 (174 lbs). Other competitors during the winter were Jayson Bowlsby, Pennsylvania ’09 (265 lbs), Zak Lenz, Stevens ’08 (149 lbs) and Ryan Pritchard, Wabash ’07 (174 lbs).

Football In mid-January, Vanderbilt running back Cassen Jackson-Griffin ’09 was named honorary chairman for The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee’s efforts to collect new and used coats and caps for needy children. The project, which was called Cassen’s Coats and Caps for the Counties, encouraged fans to make donations during two Vandy basketball games in late January at the school’s Memorial Gymnasium.

Cassen Jackson-Griffin was named to the NIC AllFraternity All-American first team for NCAA Divisions I-A and I-AA. Four Betas from were also chosen for the NIC’s All-Fraternity All-American first team of 28

The Beta Theta Pi

Division II-III players. Selected from Carnegie Mellon were running-back Robert Gimson ’08, offensive guard J.P. White ’07 and defensive back Aaron Lewis ’07. Named to the same team was linebacker Jason Allen ’07 of Hanover. A number of other Beta players received honorable mention on the NIC teams, which can be viewed at www.nicindy.org.

Professional Golf

Due to a serious left hand injury, Brandt Jobe, UCLA ’88, did not play in his first tournament event until early March. After four months of surgery and rehabilitation, along with a major medical exemption from the PGA, he hopes to make up for lost time. A winner of more than $6 million as a professional, he earned $802,432 during 2006.

Also taking time off from the PGA Tour is Scott McCarron, UCLA ’88, who has not played in a tournament as of the end of March.

Other Sports Fencer Brian Weiner, Stevens ’07, competed at the NCAA Division III Mid-Atlantic/South Regional meet. He also helped his team take the sabre competition title by placing fourth in the event at the MAC Collegiate Fencing Association meet.

Brian Weiner Stevens ’07

Skiier Matt Brewster, Washington State ’06, completed at the Northwest Collegiate Ski Association qualifying events. In the slalom event at qualifier number four, he placed 17th out of 51 competitors.

Three Betas competed in squash this winter.

Christopher Thompson of Pennsylvania had an overall 8-4 record, including 5-1 in Ivy League competition. Bradley Birenbaum, George Washington ’09, helped his team win the Vassar Team Challenge title. Brooks Hopple, Colgate ’07 was squash captain. Jimmy McKeague, Purdue ’07, Shyam Bajaj, Pepperdine ’07 and Peter Arreguin, Illinois ’09 each played hockey for their universities.

Supreme Fortitude The LEgacy of John Marshall Harlan, Centre 1850 Beta Theta Pi has been fortunate to have among her many distinguished alumni six associate justices of the United States Supreme Court. Notably in 1911, four Betas served simultaneously on the Court, including the second longest serving justice (33 years) John Marshall Harlan, Centre 1850.

Harlan was born in 1833 into a prominent Kentucky slaveholding family, his father a well-known Kentucky politician and former Congressman.

He attended Centre College where he joined the Epsilon Chapter and later earned a law degree from Transylvania University. He was the first Supreme Court justice to earn a modern law degree.

In 1861, Harlan enlisted in the Union Army and fought to preserve the unity of the states, eventually rising to the rank of colonel. Throughout the war he firmly supported slavery, at one point stating he would resign his post if President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Subsequently, in 1863 he was elected attorney general of Kentucky as acts of racial violence raged in the south, witnessing many of them firsthand.

By the end of the decade Harlan had changed his mind, turning strongly against slavery calling it “the most perfect despotism that ever existed on this earth.” He later exerted his new opinion on the Supreme Court earning his reputation as “the great dissenter.”

When Court decisions struck down reconstruction amendments, including the Civil Rights Act of 1875, Harlan accused the Court of using subtle verbal interpretations to cut support for racial equality and equal rights for African Americans. In 1896, Harlan was again the sole dissenter in the infamous case of Plessy v. Ferguson, reviled for establishing the doctrine of “separate but equal” and legitimizing more than half a century of segregation. His eloquent dissent, filled with stirring language that would inspire civil rights activists for generations, correctly predicted that the Court’s ruling would become as infamous as the Dred Scott case from before the Civil war.

John Marshall Harlan, Centre 1850, (June 1, 1833 – October 14, 1911) as a colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War. Harlan was number 10 on the roll of the Epsilon Chapter, known then as the Iota Chapter.

While later admired by many civil rights leaders and celebrated by several African American communities, Harlan was sharply criticized at the time for his “flip-flop” on the issue of slavery and racial equality. People argued that he had no basis for his dissents given his long-standing past of supporting slavery, to which he responded, “Let it be said that I am right rather than consistent.” — M. Hill

Spring 2007

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Mystic S [Mystic Shrine]

In Loving Memory

Amherst

Moseley, Wayne ’41, Nov. Newton, Earle W. II ’38, May 24, 2006. He was an art benefactor, author and historian. He served his country in WWII as a lieutenant in the Navy at Pearl Harbor. He started his own printing business, The Bibliophile Press at age 13. He founded two magazines, Vermont Life and American Heritage, in the late 1940s. Newton established a museum and served as its president. He was also a professor of art at Norwich University. He founded the Newton Center for British and American Studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design. He received many honors and awards for his work. He leaves an incredible legacy through his tireless work in the arts and generosity of his knowledge and contributions to the past and future history. Survived by wife (of 69 years) Josephine, daughter Antoinette and foster son Augustin Fernandez.

Winston, Richard A. ’50 ’50, March 15, 2006. He was a baseball and swimming star during college. He chose to forego a possible future on the pitcher’s mound to join the family diamond business, Harry Winston Inc. Winston worked as a sales executive and vice president for 56 years. In addition to diamonds, his passions included baseball, fishing and golf. Survived by wife (of 18 years) Susan, daughters Lisa and Stephanie, and granddaughter.

Forster S. Cayce

Arizona ’63

Brother Cayce was initiated in 1959 as number one on the roles of the Delta Beta chapter, which was founded in part by his father and continues today with the generous support of the Cayce family. He served as chapter president in 1961. Cayce spent his career producing music for Alyce Cooper, The Spiders, Linda Ronstadt and many others at Copper State Recording Studio. He was a lifelong equestrian and interested in the Old West. He collected oral histories from pioneers in Arizona. He was very dedicated to the Fraternity and his community.

Cayce was killed in an automobile accident. He Survived by daughter Kris and two grandchildren. Beta father DuPuy, Westminster ’31 (dec.)

cases of books and supplies to the school. He returned to the island to hand out diplomas to graduates. Their school library is named after him.

Survived by son John Jr. and daughter Anne. Beta nephew Lawrence Beeson, Brown ’66.

Colgate

Hof, Frederic B. ’42, Feb. 8

Arizona

Cayce, Forster S. ’63, Nov. 8. (See Above)

Ball State

Ray, Paul L. (Dink) ’69, Jan. 4. He was a member of the first pledge class at Ball State. Paul was an award-winning bioscience entrepreneur for his contribution to the state’s biotech and medical device industries. He founded or co-founded several startups including Allertech, an allergy labtesting company and Image Guided Technologies, a medical technology company. Survived by wife Paula, daughter Jennifer and son Cameron.

California-Los Angeles Stamper, William A. ’51 ’51, Nov. 5.

Case

Herries, Ralph R. (Ray) ’52, Jan. 18. He served in the Navy during WWII, then earned a degree in metallurgical engineering and went on to have a long career with the DuPont Company working in across the United States. Herries loved boating, fishing and deep-sea diving. Survived by wife Sue, daughter Suzanne, son William, two grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Centre

Biggers, Gilmore B. ’58, Dec. 13. Result of car accident.

Chicago

Gunnar, Peter M. ’47, March 24, 2006

Cincinnati

Small, John E. Sr. ’40 ’40, Feb. 20. He was chapter president, business manager of the yearbook and was on the varsity swim team. Small spent five years in military service during WWII in the Naval Reserve. He was an administrator at the University of Cincinnati for 38 years. He was director of development and alumni affairs and special assistant to the president. Small’s service was recognized last year with the Award for Excellence.

He solicited donations of books, supplies and equipment and helped set up an education fund for the children on the Honduran island of Roatan.

Over the next decade, Small sent more the 5,000

Colorado

Albin, John E. ’60, Dec. 16. He was a standout athlete particularly on his league championship football team. Albin served in the Army and moved back to southern California where he earned an MBA. Survived by wife Wendy, daughters Bonnie and Jill. Beta son John E. Jr., California-Berkeley ’88 and Beta brother James ’62.

Bairstow, Robert W. Sr. ’38, Dec. 13, 2005.

He was a well known collector and inventor.

Bairstow caught wild mustangs, had a hand in the development of a seminal invention in the steel industry and founded a company that sells rigging products worldwide. He invented fittings used in aircraft control cables on Boeing bombers and fittings to make the installation of tire chains easier.

He was a leader in the wire-rope fabrications of designing jewelry. Bairstow was active in his community and the Boy Scouts of America.

Survived by wife (of 64 years) Rosina, daughters Betsy and Lael, sons Robert and Andrew, 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Semrad, Charles J. (Chuck) ’37, Jan. 6. He served in the Navy during WWII and was a commissioned officer in the Naval Reserve.

Semrad received electronic and radar training. He had a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and worked for General Electric for 43 years.

Semrad was in technical marketing of large electrical equipment to electric utilities. Survived by wife Susan, son Charles Jr. and two grandchildren.

Trumbull, John ’35, Dec. 21. Beta father Robert, Purdue (dec.) and Beta uncle Donald, Chicago (dec.).

Colorado Mines

King, William S. (Bill) ’49, Dec.11. He had a degree in geology and geophysics and worked for Texaco as a petroleum geologist. King then worked with William, Ross, Cabeen and Associates. He traveled extensively in the Middle East and Latin America, and he worked with Occidental Petroleum Company in the Latin American division. He enjoyed skiing and camping with his family. Survived by wife (of 56 years) Virginia, daughters Susan and Sally, and son Steven.

Shanley, Robert H. ’42, Sept. 24, 2006. Beta father John (dec.)

Cornell

Boak, Thomas I. S. Jr. ’39, Oct. 6. He spent

30

The Beta Theta Pi

his entire working career with Alcoa, retiring as technical manager. Survived by daughter Judith, son Thomas I. S. III, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Beta brother Charles ’41.

Dartmouth

Bates, William C. ’45, Nov. 26. He actively participated in sports throughout his life including golf, skiing, wrestling, football and tennis. He was a fighter pilot in the Navy earning the rank of lieutenant during WWII. Rather than join his father’s oil-drilling business, he was a sales representative for Alcoa and an avid rancher. He had a lumber company, a land clearing business and built homes, motels and other real estate.

Bates had a passion for flying and loved to travel. Survived by wife (of 59 years) Patricia, daughter Patricia (Dolly), son William Jr. and two grandchildren.

Pogue, Henry E. IV (Bud) ’42, Dec. 3. He served in the Navy as an officer for four years. Pogue became involved in the economic development of northern Kentucky, helped procure the land for the University and served on the Board of Education for 35 years. He was a realtor, developer and counselor for Pogue Inc. He helped unite three chambers of commerce into one, which brought about the completion of Interstate 471. Survived by wife Betty, daughters Terri and Cathy, son Henry V, step-daughter Jane, 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Beta brother Dr. John, Miami ’49.

Davidson

McPheeters, Robert A. Jr. ’52, Nov. 18.

Survived by sons Alexander and Robert, and four grandchildren.

Denison

Blackburn, Robert V. ’40, Oct. 26. He was a hosiery company vice president.

Chapman, Samuel E. ’44, Jan. 27. He was a star football lineman during college and served in the US Navy and Merchant Marines during WWII. Chapman had a long career as sales manager for Woolrich Incorporated, a leading clothing manufacturer. Survived by wife Patricia, four children and one grandchild.

Morgan, Ross C. Jr. ’49, Nov. 29. He served in the Army and was honored with the Bronze Star.

Morgan had a 38-year career in advertising with Campbell Ewald, one of the United State’s premier advertising agencies. He was account supervisor and senior vice president with clients such as Chevrolet and Bridgestone Tire. Survived by daughter Kathryn, son John and companion Garth

Shrine Greene. Beta brother John (dec.)

Wood. H. Richard (Dick) ’56, Dec. 11. He received two masters in nuclear physics and nuclear engineering. He taught physics at Ohio State and Capital. Wood was a founding director and treasurer of the Columbus Travel Bureau where he became the executive director in the humanities. He served as vice president, secretary and treasurer at Wood and Wood Real Estate Services, becoming principal broker. Wood had a great love of music and was active in his church and community. Survived by wife Janice, daughter Louise, son Harris, five grandchildren, four stepdaughters and nine step-grandchildren.

as owner of Drozda Franklin Inc. Survived by daughter C.J., sons Robert Louis and Stephen Hayes, two grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Indiana

Louth, William T. ’48, Nov. 17, 2006. He was a medal manufacturer, president and director of Medallic Art Co.

Holland, William E. ’83, April 3.

McCart, Donald K. Jr. ’52, Jan. 28. While attending law school, he was employed by Farm Bureau Insurance and later Indiana Farmers Mutual. McCart was in private law practice in Indianapolis for 41 years and was a deputy prosecutor. He had a great interest in the Boy Scouts of America, actively volunteering with the Crossroads of America Council. He earned the highest awards in scouting: the Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope. He was also a Kentucky Colonel.

Survived by wife Rosalind, sons Robin and Kevin, and five grandchildren. Beta son Eric, Purdue ’81 and Beta father Donald, Chicago (dec.)

Dickinson

Iowa

DePauw

Clark, John W. ’35, Dec. 9.

Duke

Martone, Peter W. ’64, April.

Eastern Kentucky

Murphy, PFC Brian K. ’01, Feb. 13. He was an active duty soldier with the Army in Fort Carson, Colorado. Brian was a native of Shelbyville, Kentucky. Survived by his parents.

Florida

Graham, Roy D. ’60, May 19, 2006 Schoonmaker, Colonel James C. ’56, Feb. 21.

He played trumpet in the university band and symphony. Schoonmaker was commissioned as lieutenant in the Army in 1952 and retired from the reserve in 1994. He served in the Special Operations Command and received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Reserve Commendation Medal, three oak leaf clusters. Schoonmaker was a director for the Hillsborough County School System. Survived by wife Verna, sons James, Michael and David, and step-children.

Siviter, Robert E.’40, Dec. 8. He served in the Air Force as part of the command and general staff during WWII. Siviter served in the south Pacific and the Pentagon for 13 years as lieutenant colonel. He received the Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He owned and served as the president of Clarke-Siviter Company, a wholesale hardware distributor. Survived by wife (of 61 years) Helen, daughters Barbara and Tawny, son William, seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Georgia Tech

Sparkman, Charles L. ’50, Sept. 5, 2006.

Survived by wife Maria. Beta brother John Jr, ’50 (dec.)

Idaho

Jones, John E. ’40, Oct. 31. After serving in WWII, he was a teacher at Kimberly High School and taught accounting at the University of Idaho.

He was instrumental in founding the chapter and served as house manager. Beta son J. Tom ’72.

Vervaeke, Robert H. ’62, Dec. 4.

Illinois

Fansher, Douglas L. ’77, Dec. 26. He was a superintendent for Kipling Construction and other South Suburban contractors. Fansher was a devoted football and basketball coach. He was a fanatic for the Cubs and Packers. Survived by wife (of 20 years) Suellen, daughters Allison and Jessica, and son James.

Franklin, Robert H. ’48, Oct 8. He was a veteran of the Army and was an avid athlete all his life.

Franklin was a professional civil engineer working for Phillips Petroleum, Fred Luth Construction, Emerson, Sterling Staples Company and Senco Products. He then went into building inspections

Arp, Dr. Louis C. Jr. ’48, Dec. 5. He served in the Navy as a seaman first class. He was a well-known physician and surgeon. He joined the medical practice of his father and uncle in Moline in 1958. Arp was active in his community, serving on many boards. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed the outdoors and especially loved farming.

Survived by wife (of 56 years) Patricia, daughters Gretchen and Molly, sons Louis III and Charles, and five grandchildren. Beta father Louis (dec.)

Iowa State

Boat, Carl E. ’55, March 10. Survived by wife Dody, and sons Rick and Steve. Beta cousin Anthony Tysseling ’65.

Kettering

Herman, Bettie Jane, March 3. (See above)

Lehigh

Brenneman, Dr. Richard ’42, Nov. 16. He earned a wrestling scholarship in college and was team captain of the Olympic wrestling team in 1940, which was cancelled due to WWII. Brenneman served in the Army. He was a coal mine engineer and a steel production foreman, worked for Rand Corporation and was director of the Indoctrination Center. Brenneman worked with NASA to develop space technology. He hosted two early public television science shows. He wrote numerous musicals and songs and hundreds of wonderful poems. (www.501poems.com) Survived by daughters Gayne, Donna and Heidi; son James, first wife Mary Lou, and eight grandchildren. Beta grandson Robert, Southern California ’04.

Meyer, George W. ’45, Oct. 26.

Louisville

Tracy, John M. ’71, Dec. 8. He was an innovative leader in banking and consumer lending. He began his career at G.E. Credit, accepted vice presidential positions and later worked as a consultant for Crowe Chizek. Survived by wife Donna Wolfe and his sisters. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Delta Pi chapter.

Maine

Crummy, Richard H. ’56, Aug. 19. He worked as a general contractor for 25 years and owned and operated several construction businesses.

Crummy was a self-employed animal healer for 10 years, primarily healing and nurturing race horses.

Several articles were written about him in horse racing periodicals. Survived by daughters Susan and Elizabeth, sons Jeffrey and Christopher, and 13 grandchildren.

Libby, Willis E. Jr. (Ed) ’49, Jan. 25. He was a veteran of WWII. Libby worked in the aerospace and computer industries in New Jersey, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York. He was the owner of the Deerfield Valley Supply Company. Survived by daughters Jane and Margaret, sons Peter and Willis, and eight grandchildren.

Betty Jane Herman Kettering House Mother

Herman was the sweetheart of almost 400 Betas during her 20 years as the housemother at Delta Eta. She attended most of the chapter functions.

Herman was a registered nurse from 1950-77 and then had a second career as housemother. She loved to cook, knit and watch game shows and was very active at the senior center. Survived by daughters Bethany and Annette, sons Herbert and David, and two grandchildren.

Miami

Codner, John R. ’53, Dec. 18. He served in the Navy during the Korean conflict. Codner worked 21 years for Buckeye Steel Castings and then Keystone Railway Industries as senior vice president of international sales and marketing until retirement. He was a decorated Eagle Scout, an avid outdoorsman and an extensive world traveler.

He was New Jersey State Skeet Champion in 1970 and 1971 and coached little league baseball for 11 years. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Nancy, daughters Sharon and Diane, son Douglas and eight grandchildren. Beta son Gregory, Ohio State ’78

Michigan

Glasenapp, Dr. Jack B. ’60, Nov. 5, 2005. He was a practicing dentist for more than 40 years in Palatine. Survived by wife Gwen; daughters Erin and Kristin, sons Dale, Donald, David and Bruce; stepsons, 10 grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. Beta father Allen, Case Tech (dec.)

Klap, John W. (Jack) ’51, May 4, 2006. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a lieutenant flight officer. Klap’s career spanned more than 50 years in the insurance industry. He was active in the community, coaching inner-city sports and fundraising to train Olympic hopefuls for the national ski team. Survived by wife Jonni, three children, granddaughter and step-grandchildren.

Michigan State

Hill, G. Kay ’54, Jan. 15. He was president of his chapter and the MSU interfraternity council. He served in the Army stationed in Anchorage, Alaska.

Hill worked for Westinghouse Electric Corporation, overseeing operations in Ohio and Puerto Rico.

He then transferred to the York International plant as manager of Manufacturing Operations in Norman. He enjoyed camping, boating and piloting his own plane for many years. Survived by wife (of 51 years) Dor’e, daughter Jana, son Greg and three grandchildren.

Missouri

Bates, Samuel W. ’45, March 9. He served in the Marine Corps during WWII. In 1946, he and his brother founded Bates Brothers — a men’s specialty clothing company. In 1997, Bates moved to New Mexico and enjoyed skiing and golfing.

Survived by wife (of 62 years) Wilma, daughters Linda and Elaine, and four grandchildren. Beta brother Thomas F. Jr. (dec).

Calame, Gordon E. ’65, Sept. 20, 2006. After several years of teaching music, he served three years in the New York Army Band. He then returned to teaching and had a 25 year career with the U.S. Post Office. Calame loved music, photography and camping with his family. Survived by wife Ginny, daughter Deborah, son David and two grandchildren. Beta brother Byron ’61.

Hall, Thomas J. Jr. ’42, May 5, 2006

Spring 2007

31

Mystic S MIT

Bush, Thomas A. Jr. ’44, Sept. 13, 2006. He graduated from the Admiral Farragut Academy and spent his career naval years on sea duty. During WWII, he was a torpedo officer. He served on the staff of the Naval War College. After retiring, he accepted a position as program manager at Sanders Association. Bush developed a love of hiking along the trails and parks in the mid-atlantic region. Survived by daughters Ann, Nancy and Leah, son Christopher and four grandchildren.

Ohio

Bennett, Wallace C. ’51, Dec. 11.

Boardman, Jack M. ’51, Jan. 3. He served in the Navy from 1943-1946 and had a degree in mechanical engineering. Boardman was past co-owner of Murray City Coal and Ice Company and a longtime member of the Lions Club.

Survived by wife (of 55 years) Marilyn, daughters Elizabeth, Holly and Mary; son Thomas, and four granddaughters. Beta brothers Charles III, Ohio State ’40 and James, Ohio State ’44.

Ohio State

James A. Brunner Ohio State ’46

Brunner served in the Navy during WWII. He taught at Ohio State, Otterbein and then spent 25 years at Toledo where he retired as professor emeritus. He received the Outstanding Teacher Award in 1968. Brunner served for more than 32 years as faculty advisor to Beta Gamma Sigma. At the 158th General Convention in 1997, Dr. Brunner was recognized as the advisor of the year. He was recognized for his dedication to fraternal values and to furthering Greek life on campus.

He is responsible for the renowned appearance of Toledo’s campus, which was designated as one of the most beautiful in the US by the American Society of Landscape Architects. The University dedicated the Brunner Garden on campus to honor his beautification work. Brunner received the Silver Beaver Award for outstanding service to the Boy Scouts of America.

Survived by wife (of 60 years) Eleanor, son John, and five grandchildren. Beta son Richard, Indiana ’78 and Beta brother Dr. Richard ’38.

North Carolina

Bowles, R. Kelly ’48, May 26, 2006. He served in WWII as a sergeant in the Army Air Corps.

Bowles was active in residential and commercial real estate throughout his life as owner of Bowles Realty and president of Northside Development Corporation. He was very active in the community.

Survived by wife (of 53 years) Louise, daughter Laura and five grandchildren. Beta brothers John (dec.) and Hargrove (dec.)

Schenck, Paul W. Jr. ’43, ’43 Feb. 2. He was the general agent and manager of Provident Mutual Life Insurance Company for more than 41 years.

He continued his involvement as a financial consultant after his retirement. Schenck was awarded the North Carolina Association of Life Underwriters “Man of the Year” Award in 1980.

Over the years, he received eight management awards. He was very active in his community.

Schenck was a private pilot for 30 years and enjoyed flying his own plane. Survived by wife Ronda, daughters Margaret and Ginni, sons Paul III and Dodson, six grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren.

Staton, William P. ’53, ’53 Feb. 18, 2006. He was a world-renowned pool player, winning tournaments that included the World’s Championship One Pocket tournament, the Virginia State Pool Championship five times and numerous others.

Staton made guest appearances on variety television shows such as The Tonight Show and Steve Allen’s I’ve Got a Secret. He traveled with the USO and the AMF Staff of Champions. He earned the nickname “Weenie Beenie” from the chain of hot dog stands he and his brother started, which are still in operation after 50 years. Survived by wife (of 52 years) Norma Jean, daughters Gwyn and Victoria, son Scott and four grandchildren.

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The Beta Theta Pi

Brunner, Dr. James A. ’46, Feb. 3. (See left) Dittoe, William E. ’35, Jan. 21, 2006.

Thomas, Robert S. ’43, Feb. 3. He served as first lieutenant Army Air Corps pilot instructor during WWII. Survived by daughters Debra, Joan and Beth, and nine grandchildren.

Willeman, Russell J. Jr. ’56, Feb. 1. He began the arts program at Northeastern Local School District in 1968 and taught for 25 years at Kenton Ridge High School. Survived by wife (of 48 years) Jane, daughters Elizabeth and Bonnie, son George and four grandchildren.

Ohio Wesleyan

Cooper, Grover C. ’52, Feb. 6. He was a member of the Air Force ROTC. He was a communications lawyer in Washington DC and was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court. Cooper was a senior partner of Fisher, Wayland, Cooper, Leader and Zaragoza. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and boater. Cooper authored several historical novels. Survived by wife (of 50 years) Barbara, daughter Carolyn, sons Douglas and Christopher, and three grandchildren.

Hollenbaugh, Morris ’49, Dec. 18, 2006. He served in the Marine Corps and the South Pacific in the First Marine Air Wing as a radioman/gunner.

He had a successful business career and was an ordained priest at age 40. Hollenbaugh spent many years working in east Africa and Nigeria and was instrumental in developing the Hamilton Appalachian People’s Service Organization.

He created a partner diocese program between southern Ohio and the dioceses of New Zealand and the Caribbean Windward Islands. After retirement, he moved to Aspen, Colo. and established a new church, serving as pastor for 10 years. Survived by wife (of 57 years) Phyllis, daughter Leslie Ross, son Todd and four grandchildren.

Hunter, Robert H. ’51, Sept. 13.

Patterson, David L. ’48, April 26, 2006. He retired from the Federal Deposit Insurance Company.

Survived by wife Beulah and three children. Beta brother Russell ’49.

Pfeiffer, Dr. Sterling L. ’38, March 27, 2006. Beta son Ronald, Wittenberg ’70.

Thomas, D. Keith (Buck) ’54, Jan. 2. He served in the Air Force for four years and obtained the rank of captain. Thomas was president of Clothiers Corporation, which included Thomas Clothiers and The Hub, Carters Menswear and New York Clothing House. He instituted the Golden Helmet Award and sponsored several autograph sessions with the Cincinnati Reds. He was active in his community and loved singing in the church choir.

Survived by wife Phyllis, daughter Kari, son Stephen and seven grandchildren.

Oklahoma

Jordan, Warren K. (Doc) ’53, March 11. He served two years in the Army. In 1956, he and a friend opened an advertising firm. In 1971, Jordan opened his own agency, Jordan Associates. He served on the University of Oklahoma’s advisory council and received an outstanding alumni award. In 1990, he received the Mayor’s Award, recognizing an individual business leader whose financial support of the arts had been lifelong and substantial. He also received the Governor’s Award for his contributions to businessmen in the Arts. Two years ago he began working part-time

with the public relations firm Cicero International.

Survived by wife (of 49 years) Judy, son Keeling, Beta son Timothy ’88 and one grandson.

Milburn, R. Kenneth ’39, Feb. 2. He participated in the Army ROTC and was a second lieutenant.

During WWII, he served as a B-24 bomber pilot.

He was awarded the Air Medal with three gold clusters. the Bronze Star and attained the rank of major. Milburn then entered the automobile business, owning and operating dealerships. He later owned and operated Ken Milburn Oil and Gas Properties until his death. He was very active in community groups. Survived by wife (of 65 years) Jane. Beta brothers Glenn, Missouri ’27 (dec.) and Ralph, Kansas ’36 (dec.)

Oklahoma State

Ross, Louis A. Jr. ’43, Aug. 17, 2006 Wilber, Richard P. ’43, Nov. 29, 2006

Oregon

Callaghan, John D. ’53, April 13, 2006 Reams, Brian S. ’07, March, in a hit-and-run accident. He was 22 years old and majoring in human physiology and business. Reams was a sports fan and touched everyone he met with his magnetic personality. A memorial fund had been established to construct a basketball gym in Reams’ hometown of Pocatello, Idaho. Survived by his parents and sister.

Oregon State

Griggs, James D. ’59, May 29, 2006. Survived by wife Martha and Beta sons Christopher ’86 and Andrew ’88.

Hayes, John F. ’44, July 2. Beta son William, Willamette ’81.

Hulbert, Clinton R. ’76, July 15. A certified public accountant, he worked as city administrator for the City of Phoenix and was a staff accountant for a local CPA firm. He was vice president of finance for Central Credit Union of Illinois, the managing director of distribution for Market Day Corporation and director for ADP Dealer Services. At the time of his death, he was the purchasing manager for Willow Creek Community Church. Survived by wife Alison, daughter Amanda, son Spencer and stepchildren. Beta brother Gregory ’71 and Beta nephew Jeffrey ’96.

Pennsylvania

Gilbreth, Daniel B. ’39, June 13. Survived by wife (of 67 years) Irene.

Purdue

Clifton, Fred T. ’35, Dec. 27, 2006. He served in the Navy during WWII, and was active in the insurance industry. Clifton & Company became the West Coast’s largest regional insurance broker.

Clifton was awarded the City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award by the Northern California Insurance Council. He was active in community affairs.

Survived by daughter Betsy and one grandson.

Greenlee, Pleas E. (Bud) ’41, Oct. 31, 2005. He was a Naval Officer and aviator with a degree in aeronautical engineering. After retiring, he continued to work in the aerospace field. In his spare time, Greenlee was an avid gardener.

South Dakota

Gillette, Galen G. ’58, Feb. 23. He served in the Navy from 1950-1954. The US General Accounting Office employed him in Washington DC. After attending night school, he received a Juris Doctor in 1962. Gillette returned to South Dakota and was employed by the state securities department. He then went into private practice at Gillette and McClure and formed a cable television company known as Wy-Dak Inc. He practiced law in Redfield for 43 years until his death.

Gillette was active in many professional and civic organizations. He was an avid golfer and made a hole-in-one last summer. Survived by wife (of 49 years) Mary, daughter Margot, Beta son Paul ’87 and six grandchildren.

Shrine Southern California

Bringham, Lt. Col. William N. Sr. ’50, Oct. 21. Bringham was a career Army officer with service in WWII, Korean and Vietnam. He retired as a lieutenant colonel and served at posts in Japan, Alaska and all throughout the U.S. and Europe. Survived by wife (of 55 years) Carol; daughter Peggy; sons Bill, Rick and Jim, and five grandchildren.

St. Lawrence

Flanigan, William E. Sr. ’34, Feb. 27. Survived by daughter Luanne; sons William, James, Timothy and Robert; 11 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Beta brother John ’40 (dec.)

Stanford

Chalmers, George C. ’39, May 28.

H. Herman Brix

(a.k.a. Bruce Bennett) Washington ’28

During college, Brix was a track star, played football and was in the 1926 Rose Bowl game. He served in WWII. Brix was an Olympic silver medal shot-putting champion-turned-actor who played Tarzan in a 1935 movie, The New Adventures of Tarzan. He used the name Bruce Bennett for many of his movies; he starred with Humphrey Bogart in The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, Joan Crawford in Mildred Pierce. He also did TV guest appearances in series such as The Virginian and Perry Mason. He was a very successful business man as a food service sales manager and later had a career in real estate. Age of 100. Survived by daughter Christina, son Christopher, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Syracuse

Buecheler, John E. ’48, Dec. 5. He served in WWII as a first lieutenant and a B-24 bomber pilot.

He was awarded the Air Medal for Meritorious Achievement in Combat with many oak clusters.

John had a 35 year career with Hartford Insurance Company and then 23 years as an investor.

Survived by wife (of 56 years) Ruth, sons Eric and Kurt, and three granddaughters.

Jaeggli, Ralph G. ’49, Oct. 29.

Ross, Philip C. ’43, Feb. 11. Survived by wife Jean, Beta brother Donald, MIT ’40.

Texas

Rejebian, Myron V. ’51, March 5. He joined his father in the oriental rug business, Rejebian & Son. He became one of the United State’s leading authorities on oriental rugs. He later moved the business and added antique furniture and accessories. Rejebian was the founding president of the Oriental Rug Retailer’s of America in 1972. He was active in his community with volunteer work. Survived by wife (of 53 years) Jane, sons David, Michael and Bradford, and four grandchildren.

Harwood, A.R. Jr. ’45, March 5. He served as a pilot in the Air Force during WWII attaining the rank of captain. He was president of First Federal Savings and Loan Associates and director of the Texas Savings and Loan League. Survived by wife Agnes and daughters Gail, Catherine and Anne.

Beta cousin Winston Jr. Parkinson, Alan L. ’40, Feb. 2006

Toronto

Sears, Paul C. ’47, Feb. 11. He was a professor of architectural science and architectural history at Ryerson from 1964-89. He was a beloved member of Theta Zeta. Sears was one of several Betas who participated in an annual Beta weekend for 49 years in Muskoka. Survived by wife (of 57 years) Alice, daughters Paula and Allison, son Christopher and six grandchildren.

Tulane

Herrick, Dee O. ’49, Nov. 30.

Utah

McMain, Dr. William A. Jr. ’39, Feb. 25, 2006. He was chapter president. McMain served in WWII as a medical officer. He received his medical degree and completed residencies and internships at Washington DC General Hospital and Children’s Hospital Boston where he specialized in pediatrics.

McMain practiced medicine in Salt Lake City for more than 30 years. Survived by wife (of 63 years) Margaret, daughters Kristen, Margot, Kate and Amanda; 11 grandchildren, and three greatgrandchildren. Beta brother Sidney ’48 and Beta nephew Timothy Schulder ’81.

Vanderbilt

Berry, James l. (Vance) ’48, Aug. 8.

Virginia Tech

Reed, R. Brian ’93, Sept. 4. He had a passion for people and maintained life-long ties with his brothers, fellow Hokies and business colleagues.

On September 11, 1999, he married Virginia Tech alumna, Erin Wood. Reed put his business education to work in the enterprise information systems arena, eventually forming his own consulting company, RBR Technology Solutions.

He greatly enjoyed sports, church and loving his family. Throughout his six-year battle with a rare form of cancer, his optimism stayed strong, inspiring those around him. Reed is survived by wife Erin and their children, Carter and Anna; his parents; his brother, sister-in-law and their children; his grandmothers and countless devoted friends. To learn more, please visit www. brianreedfoundation.org.

Washington

Brix, H. Herman ’28 (a.k.a. Bruce Bennett), Feb. 24. (See above) Wise, Ronald W. ’67, May 6, 2006. He served in the Army as first lieutenant in Vietnam. Wise spent more than 35 years as a leader in the food consumer products industry. He was an executive vice president and chief operating officer with Continental Mills. He co-owned a local specialty food company, Conifer Specialties Incorporated.

Wise was very active in community associations.

He was an avid Huskies and Mariners fan and enjoyed golf, racquetball and dominoes. Survived by wife (of 38 years) Elsa and sons Darren, Brian and Jeff.

Washington & Jefferson Meermans, Robert S. ’43, Dec. 16.

own. In 1956, he became active in Republican politics and President Eisenhower asked him to be deputy director of the United States Mutual Security Agency. A year later, he was named ambassador to the Dominican Republic. He helped Henry Kissinger into China for 36-hours to lay the groundwork for President Nixon’s historic visit.

President Kennedy appointed him as the special commissioner for interim discussions concerning the United States. He became counsel with the law firm of Surrey and Morse in Washington, D.C. He served as an ambassador to Iran and then to New Zealand. Survived by daughters Brooke and Page, sons Richard and Christopher, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Shingleton, J. Robert ’42, Feb. 4, 2006. Beta cousin William (dec.)

Westminster

Carter, Joseph A. ’31, Feb. 3. Played football in college. Served in the Army Air Corps as a lieutenant during WWII. Survived by wife Emily, son Joseph Jr. and two grandchildren.

Whitman

Hazen, Robert H. (Bob) ’41, Sept. 5. He played on the tennis team in college and served in the Navy during WWII. Hazen returned to Portland and worked with his father at the Benjamin Franklin Savings & Loan. He eventually became president and chairman of the board. Hazen broadcasted live radio and was active in civic organizations. He was an accomplished needlepoint artist. Hazen enjoyed golfing with the same friends for 23 years.

Survived by daughter Sydney, son Deck, stepchildren and seven grandchildren.

Kenyon, James R. ’44, Nov. 24.

Washington and Lee

Williams

Bell, Brian Jr. ’49, Oct. 5.

Binford, John C. ’58, Dec. 12. He lived much of his life in Albuquerque where he worked as a commercial real estate developer and stockbroker.

Binford wrote short stories and poetry and was published in the New Mexico Poetry Society.

He was involved in his community and enjoyed fishing, the outdoors and golf. Survived by wife, Carol, daughter Anne, step-children and three grandchildren. Beta son John, Colorado ’86 and Beta brother Joseph, Texas ’60.

Markgraf, J. Hodge ’52, Jan. 11, while exercising on campus. He was an icon, mentor, teacher, scientist and administrator to students and colleagues. He worked as a research chemist at Procter and Gamble before joining the chemistry department at the university as professor of chemistry. Markgraf was honored in 1994 with a Bicentennial Medal for distinguished achievement and in 2002 with the Rogerson Cup, the university’s highest honor for alumni service.

Survived by daughters Carrie and Sarah, and one grandson.

Wesleyan

Yale

Grubb, Joseph R. Jr. ’38, Dec. 22. Survived by wife Peggy, daughter Nancy, Beta son Joseph III, Dickinson ’71, and three grandchildren.

West Virginia

Farland, Ambassador Joseph S. ’38, Jan. 28.

He joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a special agent in 1942. In 1944, Farland was commissioned as a Navy officer. He was president of the family coal company and started two of his

Hall, Richard L. ’49, March 21, 2006. Survived by wife (of 33 years) Ethel, stepdaughter Lindsay Schnabel and stepson John Coles.

– Compiled by Phyllis Bowie

Spring 2007

33

[The Last Word] Beta Rose, My Dear

by Steve Brylski

S

he shuffled her feet slightly as she approached a chair at the front of the room. Bonnie Fey walks gingerly and pretends as if she doesn’t know why she has been singled from the crowd of more than 50 at the retirement community. I have a feeling she is just being coy.

We sang for all of our sweethearts who fondly remember husbands, sons, fathers and friends, loved ones they have known to wear the Diamond and Three Stars.

She settles into the chair and we notice her husband’s badge that glitters from her blouse.

After so many years, she still wears it lovingly, a small gesture of how closely she still carries his memory. He is not beside her now to reassure her with a smile or a gentle squeeze of the hand, but for her, he is always present in that badge. She twiddles the gold and black enamel between her fingers and smiles.

There are five of us at the front, mostly undergraduates attending The John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle. This started as a community service event that quickly took on a life of its own, when spending time with the elderly quickly turned to singing Beta tunes for a rapt audience. A larger group of about 15 stands behind us, but we are the only ones who know the words.

Our sweetheart serenade begins: “Queen of all the flowers that bloom, ruler of my heart; Let us make a promise true, never more to part.”

Mrs. Fey’s face beams radiant, a smile that says more than words ever could. Overcome for a moment by memories and tears, she stoops in her chair.

We sing for her and choke back our own tears. Our voices must sound horrible, like geese trying to yodel, but she mouths the words with us, coaxing them from getting caught in our throats. We finish the song and move to comfort her with a hug. Ever the Beta sweetheart, she comforts us instead.

You see, Mrs. Fey is the grandmother of a Beta, the mother of two Betas and the wife of the first

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The Beta Theta Pi

administrative secretary, Ralph N. Fey, Miami ’40.

How many times has she heard this song? Who, before us, sang “Beta Rose” to her? When she was a student at Miami University, was she serenaded?

Did the men of the Alpha chapter get down on one knee at her wedding to Brother Fey? Did she tearup then, as she does now?

I realize now that we didn’t sing just for her that day.

We sang for all of our sweethearts who fondly remember husbands, sons, fathers and friends, loved ones they have known to wear the Diamond and Three Stars. They may not know what ____kai____ means and will never exchange the grip of Beta Theta Pi, but our Beta Sweethearts see within us the principles that make our Fraternity so unique.

As undergraduates, they were sometimes the last girl you asked to your formals and probably the first girl you should have asked. When she became the chapter sweetheart, she tried hard to meet everyone. If you wanted her to, she would introduce her friend, the one you had a crush on since freshman year. Occasionally, she would bake cookies for the chapter that you would eat enthusiastically, even though you would have rather not eaten them brick-hard or blackened.

She saw the look on your forced expression and brought milk the next time to help you wash them down.

She knew you all so well.

But what happened to her? For some of you, the answer may be simple. “Well of course I know where my Beta Sweetheart is. She nags me every other day about cleaning out the garage or mowing the lawn!”

For others, maybe it is time to remember the chapter sweetheart again.

She probably still knows the words to Beta songs you have long since forgotten.

A Lasting Moment Beta has meant a lot to me over the years.

Not only because of my time in the Fraternity at Dartmouth, but also for the friendships from brothers that I have met while in my hometown of Dayton, Ohio.

In the early 1990s, I inherited some stock and decided to put some of it to work in certain charities through various financial planned giving arrangements. Over the years, I had been active as a board member on a number of youth organizations, so it was natural that I looked to some of those for the use of my inherited dollars. The thought of helping Beta came up and I contacted the Administrative Office. Bob Cottrell, Miami ’54 was then the director of the Beta Theta Pi Foundation and helped me set up a charitable gift annuity.

The result was very gratifying knowing that in the future this money might help young Beta brothers who I might never know. It gave me a warm feeling. You might say this gift was sentimental but it also made sense financially. The tax deduction I received was significant and the lifetime income generated from the annuity is greater than that of the stock given.

It was a “Beta win-win” situation!

– Thomas H. Gillaugh, Dartmouth ’46, is a retired insurance professional residing in Dayton, Ohio. He is a staunch supporter of the Men of Principle initiative.

Make your annual Beta Leadership Fund gift before May 31, 2007 to ensure recognition in the Beta Theta Pi Foundation Annual Report.

Our young brothers are depending upon you!

Gifts to the Beta Leadership Fund are now just a click away‌ Check out www.betathetapi.org/gift today!

Beta Theta Pi Foundation & Administrative Office Brennan Hall P.O. Box 6277 5134 Bonham Road Oxford, Ohio 45056 www.betathetapi.org