The Beta Theta Pi Magazine (Winter 2008)

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The Accidental Congressman?

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U.S. Congressman Zachary T. Space

vo l u n t e e r AN EVERYDAY IMPACT

“...time, understanding and advisement can be difficult to give, however, they are essential to the growth and development of this Fraternity.”

Christine McGill Chapter Counselor M.I.T.

Professional:

Director of Student Activities, Leadership & Scholarship, Northeastern University

Alma Mater(s):

Connecticut (B.A.) William & Mary (M.E.D)

Degree(s):

1998 – Communication Disorders (B.A) 2001 - Higher Education Administration (M.E.D)

Greek Affiliation: Delta Zeta

Hobbies:

watching college football and basketball, going to Fenway Park and visiting state capitols

Fun Fact:

Chris is the proud aunt of newborn triplets!

In November 2001, I received a call from a Fraternity staff member inviting me to be a small group facilitator for The Institute for the Men of Principle.

Not knowing much about The Institute, I received encouragement from colleagues to participate and accepted the invitation. That was the call that truly started my commitment of working with the men and friends of Beta Theta Pi. Going to Oxford, Ohio, is now one of the highlights of my year. I get to reexamine my personal values and actions, reconnect with old friends and make new ones. However, the reason why facilitating Beta leadership opportunities is always a desire for me is because of the opportunity to help men understand who they are, who they want to be and discover the talents they have to influence others to do the same.

Yet this impact does not just happen for five days in the summer. It can happen

everyday. Volunteers are needed in various forms in all of Beta’s chapters.

The undergraduates are looking for our time, understanding and advisement.

There are moments when one or all of these things can be difficult to give, however, they are essential to the growth and development of this Fraternity.

I have worked with undergraduates who later became Fraternity staff members, chapter counselors and leadership program facilitators. This demonstrates their commitment to an organization in which they believe. These things also came to be because of the experiences they had with volunteers who encouraged them to continue to serve the Fraternity after graduation. In the end, it was because of one phone call and some encouragement from colleagues, that Beta became a lifetime commitment of mine. — C. McGill

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine/V /Vol. 135/No. 3

Cover Story:

18 The Accidental Congressman?

At the end of his first year in Congress, Zack Space, Kenyon ’83 is resolved to continue his service to the 18th District of Ohio as long as the people need him.

[Winter Contents] FEATURES 11

The Oxford Cup

12

Sweeney Todd

Wichita State’s Jim Mann is the 64th recipient of the Fraternity’s most prestigious award.

Stephen Sondheim’s critically acclaimed play gets the Silver Screen treatment with a big-time budget.

18 Departments 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 20 27 28 32 34

From the Editor What’s Online?

News & Notes Installations Books by Betas Marching Along Alumni News Campus Life By the Numbers Sports RoundUp Mystic Shrine The Last Word

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A Lasting Moment

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A Dry Run at DePauw

18

The Pleasantest Hours

The story of what happened when alcohol was banned from Delta Chapter’s house, as told by an undergraduate.

The former U.S. Vice President once shared deep thoughts about his love for Beta Theta Pi.

THE BETA THETA PI

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.

Winter 2008

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[From the Editor] Don’t Just Be . . . Be Plus

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

GENERAL SECRETARY

Charles W. Warner, Lynchburg ’87

PRESIDENT

Okay, so I was an average student.

Like too many collegians, I bowed to a tendency to procrastinate, and failed to strike an appropriate balance between the “extracurricular” activities and the demands of college. There were days when class became “optional,” if only in my mind. Failure to prioritize led to skimming chapters of text at the last minute and scrambling to finish term papers over pots of coffee at 3:00 a.m.

The “B” average was a direct result of not giving it my best. It was a reflection on my unconscious Illustration by Roger Warrick decision to just exist . . . to simply “be” instead of striving to be above average or at least as good as I could.

At my best, I attended and actively participated in classes, read the assigned material in advance, started papers early and submitted them on time, and purposefully studied for quizzes and exams. The result yielded a fall semester GPA of 3.55 . . . a “B+.”

It was a proud moment because I had truly applied myself and worked for it. Unfortunately, it was a lesson learned late in my college career; however, contrary to the popular belief of the graduating senior, life doesn’t end at 22. The lesson continues to apply.

A few years ago, a friend of mine remarked, “You know, I like to wake up in the morning and know I’m at least reaching the 50th percentile.” His words struck a chord. Whether it’s academics, athletics or our chosen profession, shouldn’t we be at least a little above average?

Webster’s defines “being” as 1.) existence, 2.) essential nature, 3.) something alive. Think about your immediate family, your close friends or colleagues at work or school . . . how many of them are simply “being”?

Do they have a purpose for their existence? Is it in their nature to excel?

What brings them to life on a daily basis?

Now, what about the man in the mirror? (Ouch.)

Perhaps the greatest tragedy of life is allowing yourself to simply exist . . . to fail to explore your potential and to walk among those poor defeated souls who are essentially dead inside.

Sure, we’re all guilty of just “being” from time to time. Heck, that’s why Saturdays were made. However, just “being” isn’t a good use of the blessings we’ve been given. Just “being” isn’t worthy of our talents and abilities. Just “being” is no way to go through life!

So here’s the call to arms: Rise above mere existence. Be adventurous.

Be passionate. Be real.

Don’t just “be” . . . be plus! — T. Olver

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The Beta Theta Pi

P. Thomas Purinton, Kansas State ’63

GENERAL TREASURER

Christopher D. Miller, Kansas State ’86

VICE PRESIDENTS

John V. Conway, South Dakota ’56 James R. Curtis, Wisconsin ’86 W. Martin Haskell, Ohio Wesleyan ’68 David E. Schmidt, South Florida ’92 Paul B. Swartz, Kansas State ’64 Joseph M. Troncale, Alabama ’63

BETA THETA PI FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Carroll R. Black, Wabash ’66 Michael J. Dubes, Iowa State ’66 James J. Ellis, Missouri ’55 Michael G. Feinstein, MIT ’82 Garland G. Fritts, Illinois ’52 Thomas W. Hook, Miami ’81 Douglas G. Houser, Willamette ’57 S. Wayne Kay, Virginia Tech ’73 Jeffrey Lieberman, Pennsylvania ’96 Lynn C. Maddox, Georgia Tech ’64 Thomas H. 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 EDITOR

Steven M. Brylski, Virginia Tech ’06

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Sarah Shepherd

CONTRIBUTORS Phyllis Bowie; Jay Langhammer; Erica Suding; Tyler Van Der Schaaf; Christopher Daly; Christine McGill 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, 2007. Produced in the USA.

DEADLINES Summer 2008 ....................................................... May 15 Fall 2008 ...........................................................August 15 Winter 2009 ................................................November 15 Spring 2009 .................................................. February 15 FOUNDATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Brennan Hall 5134 Bonham Road P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, Ohio 45056 Tel: 513-523-7591 beta@betathetapi.org www.thebetathetapi.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Beta Theta Pi P.O. Box 6277 Oxford, OH 45056

[What’s Online] Www.thebetathetapi.org

Officially Licensed Vendors – Need a gift idea? We encourage members of Beta Theta Pi to support our organization and buy exclusively from officially licensed Beta Theta Pi vendors. All official vendors are screened for high quality products and good customer service. You’ll find links to “Featured Vendors” online.

Most Read Content – Find out which magazine articles other brothers from across the United States and Canada are reading!

Having the top six articles available conveniently saves you the hassle of figuring out which pages of the magazine to read and keeps you in the know.

What do you think? – Most of the content from the magazine comes from tips and suggestions given by members of the Fraternity. Let us know how we can help make the magazine better for you!

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“Books by Betas” Store

In addition to providing you with the most up-todate Fraternity information available, the website now proudly presents a simple way to browse and purchase books written by brothers. The “Books by Betas Store,” hosted by Amazon.com, is customer friendly and easy to use. For every purchase made on this site, the Fraternity receives a commission for recommending new customers.

Visit the store directly at http://astore.amazon.com/thbethpi-20.

Videos

Are you a visual learner? Come check out The Beta Leadership Fund video posted on the website. This informative piece explains the purpose of the BLF and how it is used to advance the cause of the Fraternity.

All videos are produced in-house by Associate Director of Communications Robert Umstadter, San Jose State ’05. As new video projects are completed, they will be available for your online viewing pleasure.

Winter 2008

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[News & Notes]

The Beta Theta Pi Magazine Podcast offers the latest information on the Fraternity.

The program includes headlines, campus news and more. Podcasts are released on Wednesdays and are available for download at www.thebetathetapi.org. The podcast can also be found at iTunes.

31 FOUNDING FATHERS AT JOHN CARROLL

At John Carroll University, a private Jesuit institution in Cleveland, Ohio, the Fraternity concluded a highly successful expansion project at the school of approximately 3,200 students. The new colony is represented by 31 outstanding student leaders and is only the fourth organization on campus to be recognized by the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC.) According to the University website, Beta Theta Pi was invited to campus because, “The Fraternity stood above the rest for its high correlation with the University’s mission and commitment to shaping young men to become tomorrow’s servant leaders.”

The colonization effort was led by a four-man recruitment team consisting of Leadership Consultants Joshua Machicek, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi ’06; David Campbell, Virginia Tech ’06; Director of Expansion Joe Kokojan, Oklahoma ’06, and Director of Operations and Education Michael Wolford, Miami ’04.

COBB AWARDED

SEMINAR ROOM DEDICATION

In a special ceremony on Friday, November 30, 2007, the Beta Theta Pi Foundation recognized Glenda and Mike Dubes, Iowa State ’66 for their significant financial contribution to the Beta Leadership Fund. During the occasion, a handsome plaque was unveiled that honors the memory of their son Scot M. Dubes, Iowa State ’90. The plaque hangs in the Samuel Taylor Marshall Seminar Room of Brennan Hall at the Administrative Office in Oxford, Ohio.

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At the Association of Fraternity Advisors annual conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, L. Martin Cobb, Eastern Kentucky ’96 was presented the Perspectives Award for his article titled “Why We Should Close More Chapters.” The award, named for the association’s quarterly magazine, was also given to co-author Mike McRee (Sigma Nu) of LeaderShape.

BUY BADGES ONLINE

To purchase a badge or other piece of jewelry such as the official Beta ring or cufflinks, visit www.hjgreek.com. The Greek Division of Herff Jones serves as the official jeweler for the Fraternity and provides direct access for customers to purchase products.

New badges for recently initiated undergraduate members will continue to be provided through the Administrative Office.

DISCOUNT WITH 1800FLOWERS.COM

Beta Theta Pi has partnered with 1800Flowers.com to provide members and friends of the Fraternity with a 15% discount on purchases from this top-quality vendor. Start shopping at www.1800Flowers.com and save 15% when you use the promotion code “BETA1839” at checkout.

[Installations] COLORADO STATE

On October 20, General Fraternity Vice President Paul Swartz, Kansas State ’64 officially reinstated the colony at Colorado State University as the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Beta Theta Pi. As a refounding father who has seen the Chapter grow since 2003, Daniel Wilson ’08 picked two emotions two describe the feeling that day, “Relief and pride. It’s extraordinary to see how far we’ve come.” The group has had the highest GPA on campus every year since recolonization and recently almost doubled the size of its active undergraduate class. New advisors are helping to facilitate the transition from a colony to a chapter. The Epsilon Kappa Chapter at Colorado State recolonized with 29 founding fathers in February 2004.

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT

The Beta Stars were on display in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 10, as the Eta Alpha Chapter was officially installed at Loyola Marymount University. More than 60 undergraduates, alumni and guests gathered on the LMU campus for the chartering banquet. Chapter President Tom Martin ’08 offered his reflections on the chartering process since the colonization as well as the challenges the young chapter will face in the days ahead. “We’re balancing a great sense of relief with a lot of excitement regarding the opportunities we have to grow,” he said. “We now need to set ourselves up for the long run.” The Eta Alpha Chapter at Loyola Marymount colonized with 68 founding fathers in February 2005 including the presidents of three major student organizations.

SAN DIEGO

Some 85 collegians, alumni and guests gathered at the Degheri Alumni Center on the University of San Diego campus, November 9, to celebrate the official installation of the Zeta Omega Chapter of Beta Theta Pi. Founding President John Kettnich ’05 reflected on the hard work and dedication that was required to bring the 168-year-old organization to the 58-year-old institution. “I’m really proud of what we’ve done here,” he said. “What I really value about Beta Theta Pi is the lifelong friendships.” The Zeta Omega Chapter at the University of San Diego colonized with 29 founding fathers in September 2004. In its first three years it has boasted 10 Interfraternity Council officers and a Greek Week championship.

www.thebetathetapi.org Winter 2008

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[Books by Betas] Additional Beta Books MELVIN BELLI: KING OF THE COURTROOM Mark Shaw, Purdue ’67

Belli pioneered legal strategies and represented the likes of Lana Turner, George Foreman and Jack Ruby.

Hardcover. 256 pages. US$24.95. Barricade Books. 2007.

PROACTIVE RECRUITING Paul Siker, Wittenberg ’88

Learn how to build a results oriented, proactive recruiting game plan.

Hardcover. 275 pages. US$36.95. Advanced Recruiting Trends, LLC. 2007.

HERE COMES ALBERT HOW TO FEEL MANLY IN A MINIVAN Craig Boreth, Pennsylvania ’91 In his previous book, How to Iron Your Own Damn Shirt, Shirt Boreth explained everything men need to know to become the perfect husband (or at least create the illusion of perfection.) Now, he offers essential advice for the next step with every guy’s guide to becoming a father with his masculinity, sanity and lower back intact.

At once funny and practical, How to Feel Manly in a Minivan offers advice on: • • • •

How to Embrace the Baby Shower for Fun and Profit How to Remain Conscious During Delivery How to Make Sure the Baby Says “Daddy” First How to Remain Sane when Flying with a Baby

And, of course, you’ll learn how to feel manly in a minivan (Here’s the secret: As with just about everything else during fatherhood, it requires equal parts rationalization and wicked cool gadgets.)

Full of instructive illustrations and a crucial list of “Seven Things Never to Do After the Baby Arrives,” this book is the perfect gift for fathers everywhere who can’t quite imagine trading in their sports car or pickup truck for an eight-seat vehicle filled with the aroma of stale milk and Cheerios.

Paperback. 224 pages. US$12.95. St. Martin’s Griffin. 2007.

Allan MacLaren, MIT ’60

A playful children’s story about a young boy and his pet alligator.

Hardcover. 64 pages. US$8.95. iUniverse, Inc. 2006.

THE ABC’S OF NETWORKING Thom Singer, San Diego State ’89

Building your business network of professional contacts can be as easy as A B C. Paperback. 79 pages. US$12.95. New Year Publishing. 2007.

BEYOND BORDERS

Don Glander, Wittenberg ’59 A spellbinding story that combines illegal immigration, murder, martinis and crab cakes.

Paperback. 244 pages. US$16.95. American Imaging. 2006.

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

Beta Theta Pi has partnered with amazon.com!

Log on to www.thebetathetapi.org and click on “Books by Betas” for the new online store.

[Marching Along] THOMAS D. HOBBS Centre ’02

Hobbs was named Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach of the Year after leading the Centre College women’s field hockey team to a berth in the 24-team NCAA Division III Championship Tournament. This was Centre’s first trip to the field hockey tournament. The team’s win total was the most by an SCAC team since the sport was recognized officially by the conference in 2004.

EARL-RAY NEAL Eastern Kentucky ’91

Neal won the November election for district judge in the 25th district of Kentucky that includes Madison and Clark counties. This was Neal’s second bid for district judge. In his campaign, Neal promised to hold one night court session each month in both Madison and Clark counties. Night court was one of only a few issues over which Neal and his opponent differed.

JOHN H. MASTIO Kansas ’’75

Mastio, a financial professional with Mastio Financial Resources and AXA Advisors, LLC in Wichita has earned a Certificate in Retirement Planning from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is one of only 500 financial professionals in the United States to complete this retirement planning education program.

BRETT W. TILLY Knox ’95

Tilly was named to the 2007 class of “Top 40 Leaders Under Forty” presented by InterBusiness Issues magazine for the 14th consecutive year. The recognition is given to men and women who are committed to making central Illinois an even better place in which to live and work. He is a Six Sigma Black Belt with Caterpillar’s North American Commercial Division (NACD) Industry Group.

He is a member of the Knox College Board of Trustees and the Endowment Growth Committee of Lutheran Hillside Village as well as volunteering with many other groups.

W. STANTON LANIER Georgia Tech ’86

Lanier has released a music album entitled Unveiled that includes 12 tracks and more than one hour of new music. Unveiled includes calming, uplifting melodies presented as piano solos and features the accompaniment acclaimed musicians. He created Music to Light the World, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, with the vision to “bring peace to the soul” through inspirational music and events.

Check out video from the Unveiled Live concert at www.youtube. com/stantonlanier.

WILLIAM H. STONEMAN Idaho ’66

Stoneman will act as a senior adviser for the Los Angeles Angels after his tenure as general manager with the Major League Baseball team that started in 1999. After making the playoffs only three times previously, the Angels advanced to the postseason four times under Stoneman. They won their only World Series championship in 2002. Stoneman pitched for the Chicago Cubs, Montreal Expos and the Angels over eight years in the majors, compiling a 54-85 record and 4.08 ERA and pitching two no-hitters. He retired from the playing field in 1974.

E. JED MORRISON Oklahoma ’75

Morrison was selected as a Texas Super Lawyer 2007 by Texas Monthly magazine.

Morrison is a partner with Jackson Walker, LLP in San Antonio and specializes in health care law. Texas Super Lawyers is peer elected and represents the top five percent of Texas attorneys who have five or more years experience in more than 60 practice areas.

TODD A. HUNTER Texas A&M ’08

Hunter was elected president of the Interfraternity Council and began his term in December 2007. His goals as IFC president include reviewing and revising the IFC constitution and bringing more structure to formal recruitment. Hunter also serves as vice president of the Epsilon Eta Chapter and is on the Student Senate.

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[Alumni News] LEGENDARY VISIT

On October 19, former General Fraternity President Burt Folsom, Nebraska ’49, checked in with the Alpha Tau Chapter to share stories of his volunteer days with the Fraternity.

Chapter members gave Folsom — a longtime Beta volunteer who served in all three major officer positions on the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees — a tour of the house followed by a memorable lunch.

DURHAM TAILGATE

For the first time in Gamma Rho history, the undergraduate chapter at Duke University sponsored and hosted the All Duke Beta Tailgate Party. More than 20 guests participated in the alumni tailgate, which took place on October 6 and included new District Chief Matt Paynter, Florida ’00.

FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION

Delta Gamma Chapter at Wichita State University held the 48th Founders Day Reunion Banquet in Wichita, Kan., on November 10. Fourteen Fraternal Fifties attended the event that commemorated the 91st anniversary of Alpha Gamma Gamma, a local fraternity founded in 1916 at the University when it was still known as Fairmount College.

save the date The Beta Theta Pi Board of Trustees, in conjunction with its winter meeting, requests the honor of your presence at a special evening of fraternal fellowship and celebration.

Minneapolis Area Beta Alumni Appreciation Dinner

RUNNING INTO DIGGER

Ryan King, Southern Illinois ’01; Jeff Rundle, Kansas State ’03, and Ethan Braden, Willamette ’02 were invited to join ESPN college basketball analyst and legendary Notre Dame former Head Basketball Coach Digger Phelps for cocktails before the Boston College/Notre Dame football game on October 13. The photo was taken at Parisi’s restaurant, Digger’s favorite place to eat and socialize the night before a Notre Dame home football game.

• April 26, 2008 6:00 p.m. Reception ~ 7:00 p.m. Dinner • The Minneapolis Club 729 Second Avenue South ~ Downtown Minneapolis • Hosted by the Board of Trustees Spouses and guests welcome!

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

APRIL 26, 2008

Tell Us About Your Recent News!

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Visit www.thebetathetapi.org and click “Submit Content” or send a photo and brief description to steve.brylski@betathetapi.org.

The

64 Oxford Cup th

OF

BETA THETA PI

James L. Mann

Wichita State ’56 • Oxford Cup Roll No. 064

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.

The Oxford Cup was developed in 1984 by then-President Peter E. Van de Water, St. Lawrence ’58, and General Secretary B. Hume Morris, Centre ’68. Brother Morris also wrote the award ceremony and designed the Cup, a small version of the Pater Knox Golden Wedding Loving Cup.

James L. Mann, Wichita State ’56 received the Fraternity’s most prestigious award at a ceremony held in conjunction with the 48th Founder’s Reunion celebration at Wichita State University, November 10. The Oxford Cup is presented “in recognition of achievement of the highest order” and has included such highly esteemed Betas as John Wooden, Purdue ’32; Sam Walton, Missouri ’40, and most recently Howard Fineman, Colgate ’70.

After college and a five-year stint as a pilot in the Strategic Air Command of the United States Air Force, Mann returned to Wichita to work for IBM Corporation.

In 1965, he joined a Wichita-based accounting firm to start a computer services and software business that grew to $21 million annually. Mann left the computer services industry for four years and re-entered in 1981 as president of Bradford National Corporation, a New York City-based computer services firm.

Mann was chairman of SunGard Data Systems, Inc. He joined the company in 1983 at its inception as COO, leaving the president and CEO position of Bradford National Corporation. In 1986, he was appointed CEO and took the company public through an IPO. Under Mann’s leadership, the company’s annual revenues grew from $70 million to more than $2 billion by 2002, a compound growth rate of 25%.

His dedication to his core values of strategic prudence, management precision and professional excellence empowered others to share his vision and provided the leadership to accomplish it. In 2002, Mann was named chairman of the board and in 2005, SunGard announced a definitive agreement to sell the company to a private equity consortium for $11.4 billion in cash, representing the largest technology privatization and second largest leveraged buyout ever completed.

His Delta Gamma Chapter was founded as a local fraternity, Alpha Gamma Gamma in 1916 when Wichita State University was Fairmount College. After graduation, Mann supported his local chapter’s affiliation with Beta Theta Pi and was active in the petitioning for a charter from the General Convention. Once Delta Gamma received its charter, Mann was in the first group of alumni to be initiated into Beta Theta Pi. Through the years, he has continued to provide financial support to the Chapter and recently provided most of the funds to purchase the property adjacent to the house. He has been a donor to the General Fraternity’s Beta Leadership Fund since 1971, the year the BLF was established.

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B

ased on the macabre legend of a gruesome Victorian vendetta, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street tells the tale of a deranged barber driven to murderous ends. After 15 years of wrongful imprisonment, Benjamin Barker returns to London as Sweeney Todd and enacts a plan to take revenge on the judge who sent him away. The plan is disrupted and Todd must kill a growing number of people to cover his tracks. To dispose of the bodies, he partners with a female butcher who grinds them into meat pies and sells them back to Londoners. Both Todd and his accomplice thrive, but twists and turns throughout the movie keep the story moving briskly.

That’s the grisly plot in a bloody little nutshell. It’s also a musical, which may leave you scratching your head and wondering, “Whose idea was that?”

Stephen Sondheim, Williams ’50 has won multiple Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, an Academy Award and more Tony Awards than any other composer in history.

As the demon barber slices through his victims, he belts out lyrics and music by legendary Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, Williams ’50. At the age of 25, the Jets and Sharks were snapping their fingers to the voices he gave to Tony and Maria in West Side Story.

He has won multiple Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, an Academy Award and more Tony Awards than any other composer in history. He is notoriously reclusive but has been vocal with his praise for the film adaptation of his play.

He calls the silver screen version of his Tony Award winning musical, “really good.”

For those who have seen the original work on stage, Sondheim clarifies with Canadian website MoviesOnline.ca, “Unlike almost all musical movies, this is really a movie based on a musical. This is not simply, as all others are, a film of the stage musical.”

With a veritable A-list of Hollywood

actors, directors and producers, Sweeney Todd may slash a few records and cut through the winter movie lineup to become one of the top grossing films of the year. It has been hailed as a masterpiece for Director Tim Burton. The actors are getting similarly promising reviews. The Oscar buzz, if you believe in that kind of thing, began months before the film was released in theatres.

Of course with the recent box office success and critical acclaim for such musical adaptations as 2007’s Hairspray, 2006’s Dream Girls and 2002’s Chicago, it comes as no surprise that Hollywood has been looking for the next singing cash cow from Broadway.

With a high profile cast that includes Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman and Sacha Baron Cohen of “Borat” fame, the film adaption has garnered mostly positive reviews.

Famed film critic Emanuel Levy writes, “Dark, haunting and visionary, Sweeney Todd [represents] Tim Burton’s best film since Ed Wood and his most challenging teaming with Johnny Depp.

A mesmerizing, Oscar-caliber work that should satisfy Sondheim’s fans and bring new recruits.”

Rolling Stone’s Peter Travers comments, “Sweeney Sweeney Todd is a thriller-diller from start to finish: scary, monstrously funny and melodically thrilling.”

Of course, the film isn’t for everyone.

The Motion Picture Association of America slapped a justifiable R-rating on the movie, restricting the audience to a much more mature crowd. If you’re not a big fan of blood and violence, Sweeney Todd may not settle well with you, either.

Just don’t lose your head over it.

— S. Brylski

Sweeney Todd was released by Dreamworks on December 21, 2007.

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A.

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Must have all engraving information before ordering badge of choice.

(Sweetheart Badge can only be engraved up to three initials)

O.

Q. R.

Visit HJGreek.com or call 1.800.422.4348 10K=10 Karat GP=Gold Plated SS=Sterling Silver SP=Silver Plated CZ=Cubic Zirconia A.

Official Plain Badge w/ Diamond 0100* 10K $136.73 Official Plain Badge w/ CZ 0100* GP $18.60 10K $77.78 New initiates receive the GP Official Plain Badge w/ CZ. These orders are processed by the Administrative Office upon receipt of the chapter’s initiation report and payment of the initiation fee.

B.

C.

D.

E.

Crown Pearl Single Letter Guard 0500 GP $45.00 10K $81.00 Crown Pearl Double Letter Guard GP $62.00 10K $103.00

F.

Coat of Arms Guard 1/2” 3366 GK $23.00 10K $46.00 Coat of Arms Guard w/ Enamel 3366P GK $28.00 10K $53.00

G. Sweetheart Crown Pearl Badge w/ Diamond 0102* 10K $190.05 Sweetheart Crown Pearl Badge w/ CZ 0101* GP $149.70 H. President Kirby Badge w/ Diamond 2280* 10K $368.03 President Kirby Badge w/ CZ* GP $166.35 Plain Single Letter Guard 0100 GK $18.00 10K $34.00 Plain Double Letter Guard GK $20.00 10K $44.00

Large Chased Badge w/ Diamond 0120* 10K $228.38 Large Chased Badge w/ CZ 0119* GP $144.53 Official Chased Badge w/ Diamond 0103* 10K $144.45 Official Chased Badge w/ CZ 0104* GP $27.90 10K $82.43

I.

Contemporary Beta Bar w/ Black Cord 2077 SS $70.00

J.

Blazer Button Set 1420-018-149 Body and Sleeves SP $79.00 GP $79.00

K.

Plain Coat of Arms Button 9/16” 0149 GP $23.00 SS $25.00 10K $50.00

L.

Enameled Coat of Arms Button 1/2” 3366B GP $25.00 SS $30.00 10K $50.00

M.

Official Cufflinks 4000 SS $110.00 10K $180.00

N.

Etched Onyx Tiebar TB2 GP $30.00

O.

Satin Money Clip w/ Coat of Arms TB3366 SP $30.00 GP $30.00

P.

Brotherhood Ring 0287 SS $64.00 10K $149.00

Q.

Barrel Onyx Enamel Coat of Arms Ring 79029 SS $175.00 10K $338.00

R.

Official Ring 7844 10K $388.50 14K $548.75 -Prices subject to change without notice.

-Forfeiture may apply to returned or canceled orders.

-Returns must be made within thirty days of reciept.

-Items may not be shown at actual size.

34-1525

Winter 2008

13

A Dry Run at “Dry fraternity” is an oxymoron to some.

Literally, overnight, DePauw’s Beta chapter went from being one of the biggest party houses on campus to an alcohol-free facility.

It’s no secret that the Greek System is commonly associated with binge-drinking, themed parties and hazing.

With such a strong stereotype prevailing about fraternities, to many people, the idea of a dry house is a joke. In fact, to those individuals, the only thing that might be thought of as more of a joke would be a dry fraternity having success. This is especially the case at a school like DePauw University, which The Princeton Review 2008 Best 366 College Rankings named as the number one “Major Fraternity and Sorority Scene” in the United States.

Yet, in the fall of 2005, the Beta Theta Pi Administrative Office was forced to institute a dry facility policy for the Delta Chapter at DePauw University following hazing and alcohol violations that occurred the previous spring. Literally, overnight, DePauw’s Beta chapter went from being one of the biggest party houses on campus to an alcohol-free facility. At a university where nearly 75 percent of male students join fraternities, not being allowed to have alcohol on the property was viewed by many members, myself included, as a major blow to the Chapter.

“The first thing that went through my mind was that I have to transfer,” said Andrew MacDonald ’08. “My college career is over.”

As a recruitment chairman at the time, MacDonald knew that going dry just one week after freshmen were allowed to come on Greek property would be a huge obstacle in the recruitment effort.

“We started losing everyone, no one was coming over anymore,” MacDonald said. “We knew we weren’t going to get a class.”

14

The Beta Theta Pi

With several members opting to leave the house and others frustrated by the dry situation, the recruitment effort struggled severely. By the time formal recruitment began during the last week in January, the Chapter was only able to draw in 13 guys.

Starting in 1986, the Delta Chapter had an average recruitment class of approximately 24 new members. The 2006 spring class total represented a 45.8% drop off from this 20 year trend. Something wasn’t working right.

The Turnaround

When the 2006-07 school year began, the previous year’s low rush numbers and other members choosing to leave the house meant the Delta Chapter needed a big pledge class in order to stay alive and running.

Over the previous six months, however, the Chapter had acquired several major assets that weren’t at its disposal the previous year.

Thanks in large part to Dan Hasler ’80, the Chapter’s alumni board was re-established.

This led to the fraternity gaining access to money that had been donated during a fundraising campaign in the early ’90s. The Chapter used these funds to remodel the first floor into an extremely nice study lounge as well as provide significant upgrades for the basement. Moreover, some of the money was used to establish an incentive-based scholarship program that would reward good grades.

Using these assets as an advertising base, the fraternity gave prospective members huge incentives to join the Chapter. Still, regardless of how nice a fraternity’s facilities are or any scholarship opportunities they offer, a fraternity is still only as good as the people who occupy it. In planning the rush

strategy, the Delta Chapter recognized its greatest strength lay in its diverse group of members. While many chapters on campus had an extremely specific stereotype, Beta, unlike so many others, didn’t.

“I think that’s one of the best things about Beta,” MacDonald said. “I don’t think we have a stereotype, which is rare at DePauw.”

In one corner of the house, there was a wellmuscled football player living with a gangly book-worm. In another corner, there was a 6’4” pitcher living with a 5’8” golfer. Next door to them was the law-school bound student body president living with an absolute wildman. The house had cigarette smokers and non-drinkers, pick-up truck driving country boys and Lexus driving private-schooled kids.

There were collar-popping preps as well as kids who rarely changed out of sweats. There were weekly-church goers living with atheists, pacifists living among those enlisted in ROTC. Some made the deans list every semester and others, let’s just say, didn’t. To put it frankly, the Delta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi had more flavors than an ice cream shop.

During rush, the Chapter advertised this diversity in order to show people they didn’t have to be a certain “type” of person to fit in at Beta. The strategy worked, as 23 men decided to pledge. This number was nearly 15 percent of the total number fraternity pledges campus-wide.

Sophomore Alex Troxel said Beta being dry didn’t stop him from joining the Chapter because it was the place where he felt the most comfortable.

“The people I knew in the house were most of my upper classmen friends,” he said.

So, while being a dry fraternity may lessen Beta’s appeal to some, at the end of the day, it seems the most influential aspect of joining a fraternity is about the people who occupy

the house. And if you ask me, that’s how it should be. After all, isn’t that what friendship and fidelity is all about?

Joining a fraternity shouldn’t be about how nice the facilities are. When John Reily Knox, Samuel Taylor Marshall and Charles Henry Hardin first started Beta Theta Pi, they would meet in a rumored haunted house about a mile from Oxford’s campus. It shouldn’t be about drinking, either. Sure partying may be a fun thing to do, but what makes it fun is the people you party with. Socializing with people you don’t like is about as fun as playing chess with a chimpanzee.

The whole point of the Chapter’s new recruitment strategy is to allow a person to just be who they already are. No pressure to conform, no undue stress. The variety of guys is what makes the Chapter so special.

Personally, I can say without Beta I would never have become friends with a guy from Idaho who can use a lasso with sniper-like accuracy. I would never have made a friend from the Bronx. Nowhere else could I have lived in a place where future doctors, lawyers and businessmen call each other brother.

So, while the term “dry fraternity” may be an oxymoron to some, a person would be truly moronic to think that a chapter could not exist with a dry house. But they’d be even more mistaken to think that one could not succeed.

Living in a dry fraternity has taught me that what makes a fraternity meaningful is the relationships that come out of it. When I leave my college days behind, there are two things I will be bringing with me that I didn’t have when I pledged. Unfortunately, the first thing is 20 pounds around the midsection.

The second thing will be the relationships I’ve made. Whether the extra weight stays or goes, I know I will have the friendships I have made over the last four years.

So, while the term “dry fraternity” may be an oxymoron to some, a person would be truly moronic to think that a chapter could not exist with a dry house. But they’d be even more mistaken to think that one could not succeed.

— C. Daly ’08, cdaly@depauw.edu

Winter 2008

15

The

Pleasantest Hours of All

CCCC CCC CC CCCC CCC CC CCCC CCC CC CCCC CCC CC CC CC CC C C The life of U.S. Vice P r e s i d e n t S c h u y l e r C o l f a x

I

f one were to compile a list of the most prominent members of Beta Theta Pi, it would quickly become apparent that the Fraternity boasts some of the most prominent men in United States and Canadian history. Business moguls such as Sam Walton and the Nordstrom family, and statesmen such as Canadian Prime Minister John Turner and U.S. Senator Richard Lugar represent a small sample of the best that the Fraternity has had to offer. One such name from long ago would be the highest ranked publicly elected figure in Beta history, former U.S. Vice President Schuyler Colfax, DePauw 1844.

He continued, “And it rejoices me to find everywhere that not only are Beta principles elevating, inspiring, ennobling, indeed, but that from east to west our brethren are resolved that no other college society shall excel ours in the cultivation and development of true… manhood.”

16

The Beta Theta Pi

Colfax was born in New York City to Schuyler Colfax, Sr. and Hannah Stryker. In 1836, he moved with his mother and stepfather to New Carlisle, Indiana. As a young man, Colfax began to contribute articles to The New York Tribune on Indiana politics and formed a lasting friendship with that paper’s editor, Horace Greeley. At 19, he became the editor of a pro-Whig newspaper, The South Bend Free Press. In 1845, Colfax purchased the newspaper and changed its name to The St. Joseph Valley Register.

Colfax was a delegate to the Whig Party Convention of 1848 and the Indiana Constitutional Convention of 1849. As a member of the state constitutional convention in 1850, Colfax was nominated to run for Congress in 1850 and lost a narrow race to his Democratic opponent.

He became a member of the new Republican Party that was being formed as a fusion of Northern Whigs, Anti-Nebraska Democrats, Know Nothings and Free Soilers. He was an energetic campaigner against slavery.

In 1862, following the defeat of House Speaker Galusha Grow’s bid for reelection, Colfax was elected as his replacement as Speaker of the House.

In 1868, he was elected Vice President of the United States on the Republican ticket headed by Ulysses S. Grant.

Colfax was initiated by the DePauw Chapter, at Greencastle, Ind., in July 1854. He was an honorary member in one sense — one of the few noncollege men who have been admitted to the Fraternity. However he was so enthusiastic for Beta Theta Pi that few active members who ever knew that he was not a college-bred Beta until they heard it from his own lips.

In his 1935 edition of “The Story of Beta Theta Pi,” Francis W. Shepardson, Denison 1882 wrote, “There are a few cases also, in the early years of the Fraternity, where young men from professional schools, graduates from other colleges, or an occasional local young man of promise, were admitted to membership. Schuyler Colfax was an illustration of the second type. He was a devoted Beta through life.”

Colfax’s eagerness for the Fraternity was never more clearly stated than in a letter addressed to the General Secretary just two years before his death in 1885. He wrote, “In my wandering life over the country, lecturing from New England to Nebraska, the pleasantest hours of all, the brightest and best-remembered, are when I have happened to be where there was a chapter of our Fraternity, with whose members I generally spent a social hour most delightfully after the lecture.”

He continued, “And it rejoices me to find everywhere that not only are Beta principles elevating, inspiring, ennobling, indeed, but that from east to west our brethren are resolved that no other college society shall excel ours in the cultivation and development of true…manhood.” — S. Brylski

GETTING INVOLVED More than 250,000 college students per year are housed in 8,000 Greek housing facilities nationwide with a replacement cost and capacity that universities cannot afford to bear. Most Greek housing facilities operate independently of their host institutions, and by current tax code, are therefore not able to raise the same taxdeductible funding for sufficient life safety and capital improvements that universities can raise and allocate. These facts create an interesting and unjust situation for collegians across the country – a situation which is laced with the tragic history of fraternity and sorority fires.

This serious issue has caught the attention of the public and the media in recent years, but the minor steps that have been taken to address the problem have not provided an adequate solution.

In the aftermath of several fatal fires, some universities and cities have passed regulations and ordinancMore than 250,000 college students per year are housed in 8,000 Greek housing facilities nationwide with a replacement cost and capacity that universities cannot afford to bear. Most Greek housing facilities operate independently of their host institutions, and by current tax code, are therefore not able to raise the same taxdeductible funding for sufficient life safety and capital improvements that universities can raise and allocate. These facts create an interesting and unjust situation for collegians across the country – a situation which is laced with the tragic history of fraternity and sorority fires.

This serious issue has caught the attention of the public and the media in recent years, but the minor steps that have been taken to address the problem have not provided an adequate solution. In the aftermath of several fatal fires, some universities and cities have passed regulations and ordinances requiring certain fire code requirements to be met.

Unfortunately, many Greek organizations do not have the funding to make these necessary lifesafety improvements, nor do they have the ability to raise tax-deductible funds for these purposes.

The Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act (CHIA) The centerpiece of the Greek federal legislative agenda is passage of the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act of 2003 (CHIA). The legislation

would allow 501(c)(3) educational foundations to retain their current tax status even if they use taxdeductible charitable contributions to make housing grants to local house corporations for the purpose of chapter housing improvements.

While construction and renovation of collegiate housing is typically an issue handled at the chapter level by local alumni, the details of CHIA mean that almost all local house corporations will be unable to take full advantage of the law unless they work through the national educational foundation.

The legislative strategy is concentrated on developing a large number of co-sponsors for the House and Senate bills, as such a visible sign of bipartisan support provides legitimacy to our efforts and helps demonstrate that the proposed tax change is non-controversial.

The evolution of the Greek government relations program – and the various new campaigns and entities created to support Greeks in Washington – is reflected by a continual increase in support for this signature legislative issue. Since CHIA was introduced in 2003, there has been a steady increase in Congressional support, which indicates moving closer to passage of the bill.

The Capital Fraternal Caucus

Founded in the summer of 2002, the Capital Fraternal Caucus began as a way to develop and maintain a Greek presence in Washington, D.C. The group maintains information about legislative initiatives in Congress that affect Greek life and provides tools for expression of the fraternity and sorority agenda in DC.

Get Involved

Register with the Capital Fraternal Caucus: Receive periodic email updates about our efforts and how you can help. By registering at www.fraternalcaucus. org, you help track the success of the fraternal grassroots movement.

Contact Your Legislators: A letter writing tool prompts you once you enter your address, and it takes LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES to contact your Representative and Senators. Every letter counts!

In 2008, lobbying attention will focus on: (1) past sponsors of CHIA who have not yet sponsored the bill in this Congress; (2) Congressional Greeks who have not yet sponsored the bill; (3) members of the House Ways and Means, and Senate Finance Committee, which have jurisdiction over the bill; (4) Senate Democrats, and (5) moderate House Democrats, including freshmen, as they tend to play a pivotal role in the legislative process.

Make a Presentation: Many resources are available for you to make a presentation for your chapter, Interfraternity Council or All Greek Council. These presentations are important in getting the information and out to as many Greeks as possible!

The most likely tax vehicle moving through Congress this year is the economic stimulus package that will be debated in the weeks and months ahead. It is the first since the bill that helped heat up the economy after September 11.

There is a broad expectation that Congress will do something to prevent the economy from falling into a recession, but opinions vary widely as to what that something should be and whether or not Congressional action of any sort can solve the economic problems we now face.

In 2007, Greeks wrote 14,167 letters to Congress in support of the College Housing and Infrastructure Act, which is on pace to swamp the 17,445 communications sent during the entire 2005-06 Congressional session.

FACT:

Winter 2008

17

The Accidental Congressman?

U.S. Congressman Zachary T. Space, Kenyon ’83 motions with thick, muscular hands to prominent representatives as they mill about the House floor. He rests his athletic frame on the row of chairs in the south wing gallery of the U.S. Capitol and peers over the edge of the balcony rail.

From the gallery, the House floor looks exactly as one who watches C-SPAN might imagine. The difference, however, is in the ambiance. Cameras don’t do a very good job capturing the feeling of history that emanates from the building.

On the House floor, there is a constant rumble of representatives greeting one another loudly through the clamor of voices in the room. Their smiles seem practiced and their handshakes are quick-draw fast.

There are even a few who don’t seem entirely comfortable. Those individuals twiddle their thumbs over Blackberries and other PDAs as others “politic.”

Congressman Space didn’t have dreams to be here like so many of his contemporaries.

He wasn’t a career politician and didn’t consider a run for office until his political predecessor, who is now in prison, created a huge void of leadership in the state through his corruption. Space has been called “The Accidental Congressman,” a name that may have offended him were it not for the thick skin that he wears to the office.

“For me, it was a big step to decide to run,” Space starts with a sobering tone, “and when I made that decision very early on, very few people believed that it could be possible.

A lot of people thought I was half-crazy for entertaining the notion that I could go to Congress.”

The only people who backed him from the beginning were his fraternity brothers and family members, whose support has carried well past the election phase.

On his very first day as a freshman representative, he was chosen by the leadership of the House to deliver a speech on the floor concerning a significant piece of legislation that he helped sponsor. To show their support, his family traveled from Ohio on two buses. At first, they sat quietly.

“It was very special to me to be able to look up to them and give that speech,” he smiles.

Of course after he was done, they cheered loudly and with great enthusiasm. Apparently you’re not allowed to do that here.

“They got ejected from the chamber,” his booming laughter confirms. Two busloads worth of family members were escorted from the gallery. Congressman Space then chuckles, “But for me, that is something I’ll never, ever forget. I was proud of them and they were proud of me.”

As a second generation Greek American, he has plenty for which to be proud. His grandparents were financially poor when they emigrated from Greece, possessing little more than the clothes on their back. And, as cliché as that might sound, it’s the truth.

“He never had anything from a material standpoint,” the Congressman notes of his grandfather somberly. “My father insists that he was the richest man he ever knew because he had friends and family that loved him very much.”

“My grandfather, he’s gone now, would never have dreamt that this would be possible.”

But possible it was; an American dream come true. As Space sits perched above some of the most influential leaders in the United States, one has to smile as he continues to point to these people that he calls his colleagues.

18

The Beta Theta Pi

“There’s Steny Hoyer,” Congressman Space nods to the distinguished, silver-haired House majority leader. “And that is where Nancy Pelosi would be if she were here.”

Later, he gestures toward the center double doors where the President enters for his State of the Union address. The aisle that leads from those doors separates the two major political parties from one another.

He then points to a box at the side of the Clerk of the House’s desk and nonchalantly mentions, “There’s the hopper.”

The hopper is a brown wooden box that sits on the left side of the first tier of the Speaker’s rostrum. Members who wish to introduce a bill drop the signed text into the hopper at any time the House is in session.

For better or for worse, the box sits at the front like some political tabernacle It is perhaps, the most significant brown wooden box in American history.

Earlier in the day, Congressman Space spoke of the importance of political involvement.

“This is a representational democracy we live in,” he begins with an inspired fervor. “It only works if the people that we represent back home participate in the process.”

“It’s a matter of understanding how important politics are. The decisions that are being made, whether they’re in city council, state government or here in Congress, are being made by legislators who rely upon their constituents for guidance.”

He continues, “Anybody [who] reaches out to us gets a response. They deserve that.

For me, political involvement is a form of community service. To me it’s important to get involved in your community and to give back.”

His smile returns as he thinks of new relationships that have formed during his first year as a freshman representative. “I’ll tell you one thing about this place that has really pleasantly surprised me,” he starts, “is the nature and personalities that are working here. Even on the other side of the aisle are good guys and very accommodating as well.”

The reality of the District is certainly not an exaggerated caricature, but Space’s niche in this town exists in his ability to counteract the stereotype. He maintains that his small-town roots and Beta Theta Pi have been a driving force that helped instill strong values within.

“What the Fraternity does and what it offers is especially important in this day and age,” he begins.

“The Greeks called it ‘virtus.’ It means excellence, the pursuit of excellence in a comprehensive fashion. It’s not just being good at one thing; it’s being good at everything you do.”

“Certainly that kind of value is something that I took away from Beta. The elements of fraternity: the discipline, the desire and the efforts to attain excellence are all very important lessons that transitioned well in my world after college.”

It’s with that kind of emphasis on excellence that Congressman Space continues to separate himself from the pigeonhole where popular thought places politicians. His values affect the level of hope and optimism he brings to his job.

He confirms, “My expectations are to be as good a Congressman as I can possibly be.

We work very hard at this. The days of the 9-5, 40 hour week are long gone.

“This is a representational democracy we live in,” he begins with an inspired fervor.

“It only works if the people that we represent back home participate in the process.”

He pauses for a second; rolling his thoughts around before saying, “The good things we can do are worth all the work we put into it.”

With the next election season less than a year away, it’s difficult to say if his term will be a quick sprint or the beginning of a marathon. He operates under the assumption that he’ll be around as long as the people want him to be. And while he may have been inappropriately dubbed the “accidental Congressman,” there is nothing accidental about his priorities and principles.

— S. Brylski

Winter 2008

19

[Campus Life]

Get Involved, Stay Involved

Many chapters are breaking records and setting the standards on campus for principled leadership. No matter how well your group is doing, however, everyone needs a mentor! It’s important to be proud of the undergraduates in their pursuit of excellence and to support them in this journey. To get involved, contact Director of Volunteer Development Jason Waggoner (jason.waggoner@betathetapi.org) today!

Omitted chapters did not submit a chapter report as of 12/4/07. The original deadline to submit was November 1.

20

The Beta Theta Pi

Alabama (∆Θ)

Delta Theta is now living in its new $3.9 million chapter house. The intramural teams have had great seasons so far with Michael Uffinger ’10 leading an undefeated soccer team and Austin Overton ’10 heading up the football team as a receiver. The Chapter is excited about initiating a 36-man pledge class, the largest in Delta Theta history. — Joshua M. Cirulnick ’10, secretary, 770-329-6962, jmcirulnick@bama.ua.edu

Auburn (∆Ζ)

Delta Zeta posted a 2.91 GPA for the spring ’07 term with eight 4.0s and placed sixth out of 26 fraternities.

The Chapter held a philanthropic concert featuring Juvenile in correlation with the Auburn vs. Ole Miss Football game.

Proceeds benefited Big Oak Ranch in Springville, Ala. The intramural football team won both the fraternity and campus championships this fall. Delta Zeta welcomed 15 initiates and 34 pledges.

Alumni tailgates were held prior to five home football games this season.

— Joseph R. Vinson ’08, public relations, 251-421-5214, vinsojr@auburn.edu

Baylor (∆Ψ)

Delta Psi took another outstanding pledge class and was hard at work building a float for the Baylor Parade, which is one of the largest university parades in the nation. There are high hopes to win first place for the third time in five years. With a new academic advisor, we have great plans for the future. Delta Psi strives to be the best group on campus.

— Dillon G. Searle ’09, secretary, 903-9266910, dillon_searle@baylor.edu

British Columbia (ΓΟ)

Gamma Omicron took the largest pledge class in more than 20 years, pledging 35 new men — the top recruiter on campus. The Chapter is in the hunt to take the intramural championship for the third year in a row. A mother and son tea party was exceptionally well received. Gamma Omicron placed third in Gamma Phi Beta’s “Mr. Greek competition and continue to support community charity efforts, with our own Strongman philanthropy planned for next term. As always, our alumni golf tournament was a success and our alumni association support has been outstanding.

— Peter S. Kearney ’07, president, 604616-7124, seankearney@shaw.ca

Cal Poly (Ε∆)

Epsilon Delta has seen many changes through the past year. After a rocky winter and spring quarter, we started the fall quarter strong, recruiting a pledge class of 14, our largest in almost a decade, repaid all outstanding debt, moved into a larger house that is closer to campus and been moved by Cal Poly from suspension status almost a year early. In addition, we have a new set of on-campus advisors and celebrated our 21st anniversary with a successful alumni weekend. We look forward to our continued growth as a chapter and the success it will bring.

— Patrick S. McMahon ’08, president, 916806-3473, pmcmahon@calpoly.edu

California-Los Angeles (ΓΝ)

After winning the most improved chapter award at Convention this summer, Gamma Nu is looking to expand it’s philanthropy and community service. Mattel Children’s Hospital, the beneficiary of our annual four-square tournament, recently opened a center at UCLA near the chapter house, providing an opportunity to improve our working relationship. Chapter members will run for multiple positions in the upcoming IFC elections to continue its high level of participation in the Greek community.

— John B. Larson ’08, president, 510-4353277, johnblarson@gmail.com

Carnegie Mellon (ΓΙ)

With 20 members composing the fall pledge class, we look forward to their enthusiasm and enjoyment in carrying on the traditions of Beta Theta Pi. The Chapter earned a 3.27 average and ranked second of 13 in academic performance. Sixty-three members participate at the varsity level for Carnegie Mellon football. Gamma Iota had a minimum of 25 hours of service to the community per semester. Last spring every brother reached this goal through various service and philanthropic events.

For the remainder of the semester, “Service Saturdays” will provide opportunities for brothers, the university and the community to give back. — Brendan T. Howe ’10, secretary, 412-862-2647, bhowe@cmu.edu

Case Western Reserve (ΛΚΒ) Lambda Kappa-Beta was glad to take home the Charles H. Hardin Leadership Award at Convention in Orlando.

The Chapter had a productive semester in the preceding spring, raising more than $2,200 at our annual Walk-a-Thon in honor of Steven P. Arnold ’84 in an effort to raise diabetes awareness in the Greater

Cleveland area. Six pledges were inducted and a standards score of 95 out of 100 was achieved. — Alex W. Bura ’09, secretary, 440-785-1871, awb8@case.edu

Central Florida

(ΖΨ) Zeta Psi started the year with the induction of 39 pledges who were initiated on November 17 in Oxford, Ohio. The new Beta House is renovated and located on Mendel Drive right by campus. Zeta Psi raised $1,875 for the American Cancer Society and had successful fundraising events for the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Special Olympics. Zeta Psi plans to maintain the highest fraternity GPA for the third consecutive semester. — Mark B. Schaal ’09, secretary, 703-864-8238, skip2007@aol.com

Central Michigan (ΕΓ)

Epsilon Gamma continued its success after winning the President’s Cup for best fraternity on campus last year. The Chapter recently won the Golden Goblet during homecoming week. Furthermore, homecoming was successful with a lot of alumni in attendance. — Shane P. Farrell ’10, secretary, 313-520-0812, farre1sp@cmich.edu

Clemson (∆Ν)

Delta Nu won the Sisson and Virginia Tech Awards at this year’s Convention, initiated 12 brothers in August and has a fall pledge class of 15 men. The Chapter was ranked first in IFC grades again with an average chapter GPA of 3.17 compared to the All-Fraternity average of 2.94. A handful of brothers are involved in student government and various honor organizations on campus. The third annual alumni dinner was extremely successful.

The spirit and dedication of our advisor team is most appreciated. — J. Deeds Kienker ’08, president, 803-727-2074, jkienke@clemson.edu

Colgate (ΒΘ)

Through the summer our house was renovated slightly by the university. Once we were back on campus in the fall, we were able to recruit 17 promising new members. Our philanthropy chairmen Adam Dudek ’09 and Mark Falcon ’09 put together another successful charity benefit in late October, which raised thousands of dollars for children to attend a local Madison County summer camp. — Daniel G. Lieberman ’09, secretary, 315-228-7000, dlieberman@mail. colgate.edu

Winter 2008

21

Connecticut (ΖΧ)

Zeta Chi welcomed 16 pledges, which is the largest pledge class to date. This summer the chapter received the Sisson Award and successfully held the first summer Recruitment Through Scholarship program.

Zeta Chi is glad to have a fully functioning advisory board. “Beta Claus,” a winter philanthropy that brings underprivileged children to a holiday party and has them leave with a present, is coming to town. The Chapter is participating in a pilot program through the university’s Alcohol and Other Drugs Office which aims to reduce binge drinking. The program raises funds for Vietnamese families at the same time.

— Kenneth J. Knowles II ’10, secretary, 203-615-8336, betasecretary@gmail.com

Dayton

The Dayton Colony has an overall GPA of 3.38, which is above any other Greek organization on campus and above the all-men’s and all-campus averages. Our first pledge class consists of six outstanding men, including the student body president and a French horn player in the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. During a fall picnic, the Colony hosted many Dayton-area alumni and parent. Service highlights include working with a local orphanage, playing with Sudanese refugee children and helping freshmen move in. The recruitment team promises a much larger pledge class in the spring semester — Daniel T. Bassett ’08, secretary, bassetdt@notes.udayton.edu

Denver (ΑΖ)

Alpha Zeta worked with the sisters of Delta Zeta in the spring to make gift bags for a local children’s hospital. On homecoming weekend the chapter hosted a catered alumni event at the house.

Afterwards the alumni and brothers went to see the Homecoming hockey game.

Many more events are planned for the chapter and Alpha Zeta is looking forward to another strong quarter this winter. — Alex F. Betz ’10, secretary, 973-668-8512, abetz@du.edu

DePauw (∆)

Delta initiated 23 new members who played a large role in the Chapter’s academic turnaround. The 2007 pledge class earned the second highest GPA of any pledge class with a 3.27. The overall Chapter GPA increased above the allmale and all-Greek averages into the top five. Events such as “Cow Plop” raised money for Greencastle’s sports park. The 22

The Beta Theta Pi

Chapter is a ruby sponsor for Relay For Life with individual and house donations exceeding $3,000, the highest of any Greek organization on campus. — Joey Medvescek ’09, president, 317-696-8499, josephmedvescek_2009@depauw.edu

Emory (ΓΥ)

The Chapter won Greek Week, took second place in the all-campus float competition, first place in the Greek God competition and raised the most money per brother of all fraternities to the school sponsored charity. Alumni weekend was October 19-21 with more than 25 alumni participating. Gamma Upsilon held its annual Fright Week haunted house philanthropy event in association with Delta Delta Delta sorority, which raised more than $5,000. The Chapter initiated 12 outstanding young men into the Fraternity. — Michael W. Singer ’09, secretary, mwsinge@emory.edu

Florida Atlantic (Ζ∆)

Zeta Delta focused on the meaning of Beta values to individual brothers. The chapter went deeper into the Ritual than ever before and have come out better men, brothers and students. President David W. Cottle ’09 deserves credit as one of the most effective leaders in Zeta Delta history.

— Christopher A. Barretta ’09, chorister, 561-479-4672, christhehoov@gmail.com

Florida International

The Florida International Colony started the semester a pledge class of 11 new members, the largest since the founding father class. The brothers hosted their first philanthropy event, an Inaugural Beta Kickball Tournament which raised $500 for the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI.) The Colony raised approximately $3,000 this semester through fundraising activities.

Things never looked brighter for the FIU Colony, which is applying for its charter.

— Roberto Gutierrez ’10, secretary, 786200-0792, robg18@gmail.com

George Washington (ΖΝ)

Zeta Nu extended bids to 12 new members, despite a 50% campus-wide decline in men seeking a Greek experience through the rush period.

Beta Cup, a sorority soccer tournament, raised money for the Atzum Foundation that is dedicated to supporting victims of terror and their families. The Chapter volunteers weekly with St. Paul’s Parish church making sandwiches for the local homeless.

— Thomas R. Levy ’09, secretary, 215-8201881, tom@gwu.edu

Georgia (ΕΕ)

Epsilon Epsilon attained an overall GPA of 3.29, good for fourth of 28 fraternities. This was above the all-men’s average, the all-Greek average and the all-campus average. Eighteen men made the Dean’s list or better. The Chapter pledged 26 hardworking men for the fall semester. Chadwick Hume ’09 was public relations chairman for H.E.R.O., Timothy Anderson ’08 worked with Dance Marathon and Whitney McClung ’09 served on IFC. The Chapter is raising money for a housing extension planned to break ground in June 2008. The renovated house will sleep 33 brothers and provide a new chapter room.

— Trent P. Culbertson ’09, secretary, 678521-3258, tpculber@yahoo.com

Georgia Tech (ΓΗ) Gamma Eta announced a new pledge class of 15 extraordinary young men.

The Chapter received the highest GPA for all fraternities on campus, posting a 3.28. Adam Swett ’08 is head of the undergraduate judiciary committee.

The Chapter dedicated a new retaining wall and presented the outstanding alumnus award to Tony Piede ’06. Brothers continue to integrate into the business world with numerous students beginning co-ops.

— Robert M. Boozer ’10, secretary, 404840-8257, gth824b@mail.gatech.edu Idaho (ΓΓ)

Gamma Gamma recruited a pledge class of 19 this semester with a midterm GPA average of 3.3, much higher than the all-Fraternity average. The Chapter hosted the Beta Haunted House, a philanthropy that raised more than $250 for the Moscow Food Bank and co-hosted the Box Lunch Social with Theta Chi. They donated the proceeds to Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse, a nearby women’s shelter. The Chapter now stands in second place for intramurals. — Jesse R. Johnson ’09, secretary, 208-885-6251, jessejohnson@vandals.uidaho.edu

Indiana (Π)

Pi initiated 26 new members who accumulated an average GPA of 3.55. The Chapter is participating in a new program called the Beta Civic Series where various non-profit organizations come to discuss philanthropic opportunities. Matt Jones ’08 and Andrew Eshelman ’08 won the intramural golf championship. Many members and their fathers participated in the annual Beta 100 Golf Outing in late

September. This year marked the largest number of participants including actives, their fathers and many alumni. — Andrew C. Eshelman ’08, secretary, 317-698-9136, aceshelm@indiana.edu

Iowa (ΑΒ)

Alpha Beta doubled the Colony’s size and hosted their first philanthropic event, a beanbag tournament, which was well attended and raised more than $1,000 for the Ronald McDonald House. The Colony logged hundreds of community service hours and achieved a GPA of 3.34. This is the highest Greek average on campus between fraternities and sororities.

— Kyle M. Collins ’07, secretary, 563-4950124, kyle-collins@uiowa.edu

Iowa State (ΤΣ)

Tau Sigma inducted a pledge class of 14 new members this fall. Last spring’s GPA was above the all-men’s average and the men of Tau Sigma instituted a new scholarship program to raise grades even higher. Matthew Martin ’10 was elected president of the Engineering Student Council and Ryan Kennedy ’10 is president of the Phi Eta Sigma honor society. Tau Sigma held its first “Beta Burgers and Bands” philanthropy this fall to support The 10,000 Hours Show, which raised more than $900. — Erik M. Petersen ’09, secretary, epeterse@iastate.edu

Johns Hopkins (ΑΧ)

Alpha Chi continued its involvement with Wyman Park Dell Organization, planting new foliage in the neighborhood park. The Chapter works with the local Boy Scout camp on the COPE team building course and volunteers with various tasks around the campsite. The Chapter initiated 12 new members in spring 2007 and three more in the fall. Silver Seals and Fraternal Fifties were presented to alumni and brothers of all ages shared their experiences with the Fraternity. — Daniel J. Young ’09, secretary, 510-318-0906, dyoung24@jhu.edu

Kenyon (ΒΑ)

Beta Alpha is beginning to see the long awaited restoration of the beloved “Temple in the Woods” thanks to the generous donation of Fred Holdridge ’50. The Chapter is greatly appreciative of plans to hold a temple rededication ceremony with alumni this spring. Eighteen brothers earned varsity letters this fall for the football team, many of whom started. While there is no fall pledging at Kenyon, the chapter is looking

forward to a successful spring pledge class.

— Michael J. Chase ’08, president, 740427-6334, chasem@kenyon.edu

Kettering A (∆Η)

The Delta Eta A-Section Colony’s average grade for the winter term was an 88.66 weighted average, higher than the university average, the all-fraternity average and the all-men’s average. In intramurals, Delta Eta was the undefeated champion of dodgeball. Five bids were accepted during recruitment. Alumni Ray Daniels and Thomas McWilliams joined Beta through a special initiation in early September.

— Paul F. Reichert ’10, secretary, 248-701reic8210@kettering.edu

Kettering B (∆Η)

Delta Eta B-Section Colony is number one in grades with more than a 91 cumulative average. By holding philanthropy events with Habitat for Humanity, the local Children’s Museum, Relay for Life and more, the local community will recognize Beta. In B section alone, nine of 20 men attended The Wooden Institute and three made the trip to Orlando for Convention.

— Valentin Hernandez ’11, secretary, 423258-6729, hern8357@ku.edu

Knox (Ξ)

Xi had seven athletic captains across four athletic teams (including four of the five football captains), a student senate chairman, the IFC rush chairman and the number one wrestler in the nation.

During the 2007 homecoming festivities, Xi held a pig roast and entertained dozens of alumni. Many alumni became reacquainted with the Chapter. Congratulations to Jaran Rutledge ’08 for being named preseason #1 heavyweight in Division III . — Tighe L. Burke ’09, chorister, 847-732-4662, tburke@knox.edu

Lawrence (ΓΠ)

Gamma Pi is teetering on the edge of surpassing the all-men’s average at Lawrence. The Chapter held its annual philanthropic holiday dinner. More than 25 residents of a local retirement home came to the house and shared a special meal. Additionally, we completed the Recruitment Through Scholarship program and supplied eight scholarships to extremely qualified candidates. — David E. Lofstrom ’08, secretary, 920-832-7869, lofstrod@lawrence.edu

Lehigh (ΒΧ)

Beta Chi received the Excellence in Risk Management Award at the 168th General Convention.

The fall semester has been highlighted by the third annual House Project Day. The house now includes new furniture and an entertainment system. The Chapter celebrated its Fraternal Fifties with an impressive alumni turnout. The Chapter volunteers at the local Boys and Girls Club, and local trash pickup in South Bethlehem.

— Christopher P. Adamski ’09, secretary, 267-218-2287, cpa209@lehigh.edu

Louisville (∆Π)

Delta Pi has experienced tremendous gains in leadership within the Chapter, with many young members taking the lead. The Chapter had a strong showing in all sports, improved the chapter GPA and re-connected with many of Nu Sigma Chi alumni, the local fraternity that helped found our Chapter. Alumni are invited to spring rush week and the annual Delta Pi Alumni Dinner. As always, please be sure to check the website to stay up to date. — Kyle J. Melwing ’08, president, 502-939-5980, kmelwing@radium5.com

Loyola Marymount (ΗΑ)

Eta Alpha received its charter this summer and the buzz around the Chapter is electric. President Thomas Martin ’08 showed the leadership that was vital in transforming our Colony into a proud chapter. Competitively, the Chapter won Lip Sync 2007 and participated in Greek Week, which has given a strong momentum for new traditions. With the last of the founding fathers graduating, the Chapter will follow young, optimistic leadership once again.

— Randall T. Hellman ’09, secretary, 949933-8234, rhellman@lion.lmu.edu

Maine (ΒΗ)

Beta Eta helped the sisters of Phi Mu with Trick-orTreat for the Children’s Miracle Network and sang a selection of Beta tunes at a pizza social with the folks at the Dirigo Pines Retirement Village. We have a pledge class of 17 worthy men and will graduate one at the end of the term. Beta Eta will potentially have more than 50 members.

Our alumni have been active with ongoing renovations to the house. The latest project is the refurbishing of the Chapter room.

— Richard P. Michaud ’10, secretary, richard.michaud@umit.maine.edu

Winter 2008

23

Miami (Α)

Alpha continued to have the highest grades on campus. Recently, a six man pledge class was initiated. Our main philanthropy this semester, Extreme Home Makeover: Greek Edition, helped restore an Oxford resident’s home that was in need of an exterior renovation. The Chapter opened the Alpha Heritage Museum with a celebration that included current brothers and alumni from all over. The event included the induction of Peter W.C. Barnhart ’66 into the Alpha Hall of Fame.

— William M. Heavener ’09, secretary, 630886-1304, heavenwm@muohio.edu

Middle Tennessee State (ΕΘ)

Epsilon Theta had nine brothers attend leadership opportunities during the summer, chapter and fraternal morale has reached new levels. With help from alumnus Brian Burns ’92, the Chapter house received fresh landscaping. We welcomed 23 pledges, the second most on campus. Five brothers serve as president for various campus organizations. — W. Taylor Black ’09, vice president, 615-4248840, wtb2g@mtsu.edu

Minnesota (ΒΠ)

Beta Pi achieved a 3.31 GPA last spring, marking the seventh time out of the past eight semesters that it has been first in grades.

We implemented a summer recruitment program that brought 19 pledges. Beta Pi boasts some of the best leaders at the University. Jason Bergeron ’06 was recently appointed to the position of Orientation and First Year Programs Student Programmer for 2008, the highest student-held position on campus. — Aviran Sethi ’09, secretary, 507-254-6885, sethi004@umn.edu

Mississippi (ΒΒ)

The beginning of the fall semester proved to be a very trying time for Beta Beta. With the help of dedicated alumni, family and friends, the Chapter is moving in the right direction. Recruitment brought together 13 men to pledge. Thanks to everyone who has helped the Chapter this semester.

We appreciate the continued support.

— Joshua L. Robinson ’08, secretary, 228861-9143, jlrobin1@olemiss.edu

Missouri (ΖΦ)

Zeta Phi has a strong pledge class of 37 new members whose current predicted GPA is 3.29. The annual alumni golf tournament attracted more than 100 alumni. The Chapter was awarded the John Reily Knox Chapter Excellence Award and the Francis H. Sisson Award.

24

The Beta Theta Pi

Zeta Phi held its annual 7-on-7 water volleyball tournament, raising $5,000 for the Barns Jewish Hospital Center for MS research and completing 150 service hours throughout the week. — Nicholas A. Ebert ’08, president, 636-734-6351, naegw3@mizzou.edu

Missouri-Kansas City (ΕΛ)

Epsilon Lambda had a successful recruitment period with 21 new pledges. The Chapter won the Beta Sigma Phi “Frats at Bat” philanthropy softball tournament and the Alpha Delta Pi “Casino Night” philanthropy.

Exciting renovations to the Miller Nichols, Kansas ’33 Chapter House were completed this summer with the help of Epsilon Lambda housing corporation president John Hickman ’94 and the university. — William R. Hotchkiss ’10, president, 816-523-8275, wrhrkf@umkc.edu

MIT (ΒΥ)

Beta Upsilon had an impressive GPA of 4.2 (out of 5.0.) MIT does not report all-men’s, Greek or campus averages. The brothers annually participate in Franklin Park Zoo’s “Zoo Howl” by dressing up and decorating a haunted maze for young kids. We will initiate eight new members. Nearly all brothers and pledges helped recognize the accomplishments and gifts of Beta alumni at the alumni appreciation dinner in Boston. — Steven C. Russo ’09, president, 832-788-7907, srusso@mit.edu

Nebraska (ΑΤ)

Alpha Tau finished summer recruitment with 25 young men. The Chapter posted GPA of 3.460 in the spring of 2007. Alpha Tau held the second annual Queens of the Court women’s basketball philanthropy, benefiting the Lincoln Food Bank. Congratulations to Jon McClymont ’09 on his recent engagement, Carson Vaughan ’10 for his prestigious summer internship with The Onion and Cuyler Gembol ’07 for his leadership as Vice Wing Commander in Air Force ROTC. — Logan J. Hart ’08, secretary, 308-325-5804, secretary@beta. unl.edu

North Carolina (Η)

Eta initiated 15 young men.

In October, the Chapter had a successful alumni weekend through the South Carolina football weekend. During the celebration, the brothers dedicated the Chapter room to the Barbee family, whose great loyalty and friendship is influential.

Hundreds of alumni returned for the event. The Chapter held a philanthropy, which raised more than $2,500 for Dance Marathon here at Carolina. — Kevin A. Shamburg ’09, president, 336-471-4198, shamburg@email.unc.edu

North Dakota (ΓΚ)

Gamma Kappa had a fall pledge class of 13 members. The Chapter won its fifth consecutive Sisson and sixth overall.

The Chapter has stayed active with its philanthropic endeavors. Zachary Smith ’08 represents Beta Theta Pi as IFC president.

— Bryant R. Sombke ’08, secretary, 701741-1871, Bryant.sombke@und.nodak.edu

Ohio (ΒΚ)

Beta Kappa with the help of five sororities raised more than $1,000 for the local Humane Society through its annual philanthropy event, “Beta Pumpkin Patch.” With a new attitude towards recruitment, Beta Kappa recruited 13 exceptional men. The Chapter came in first for the intramural sports fall quarter. Scott Winberry ’05 and Ilija Vadjon ’05 will fill the spots of campus advisor and recruitment advisor respectively. — Zachary J. Reichard ’09, recruitment chairman, 330-428-2937, zr187005@ohio.edu

Oklahoma (ΓΦ)

Gamma Phi signed 55 men following summer recruitment.

These men won intramural football and University Sing, which marks the second time in three years the Chapter has won University Sing. Gamma Phi had 10 brothers elected as representatives to UOSA, which equates to a quarter of the entire congress.

In October, the Chapter celebrated its Centennial as the only group to remain on campus for 100 years. More than 700 people attended the Centennial Gala.

— Matthew K. Brown ’09, president, 405816-7288, mbrown@ou.edu

Oklahoma State (ΓΛ)

Gamma Lambda finished second in grades and hopes to finish first this semester. The alumni database is rapidly growing in number and we hope to finalize it in the upcoming months. Alumni should send contact info to be added to our files. Improving the active/alumni relations has been a goal of the Chapter that this will accomplish. — Christopher L. Roy ’05, president, mcgboy88@aol.com

Penn State (ΑΨ)

Alpha Upsilon ranked second overall in interfraternity athletics. The Chapter initiated the first fraternity recycling program at Penn State. The $3.5 million restoration project continues to move forward and the entire second and third floors were restored during the summer. The Chapter now hosts monthly art shows in collaboration with the Penn State School of Visual Arts.

The house is now on the national historic register. — Richard F. Appleton ’10, secretary, 814-238-9719, rfa5009@psu.edu

Pennsylvania (Φ)

Phi was recognized for its outstanding GPA, which was above the all-men’s average the all-Greek average. The Chapter hosted its annual Haunted House for the trick-or-treaters in the community with more than 200 children participating. The Chapter’s homecoming celebration brought many alumni back to Philadelphia. — Bruce C. Hogan ’09, treasurer, 602-363-9862, brucech@wharton.upenn.edu

Purdue (ΒΜ)

Beta Mu participated in many philanthropies and raised more than $5,000 to benefit Court Appointed Special Advocates. The Chapter recruited 28 new members and is very excited about this new recruitment class. The Building Bridges Program is a new initiative to help create a relationship between actives and alumni in a similar field of studies. — Brent T. Hasse ’10, secretary, 630-728-5383, bthasse@purdue.edu

Rhode Island (ΕΧ)

Epilson Chi experienced its biggest transition in the past three years, switching to an off-campus fraternity.

Chapter members cleaned up local beaches with the Save the Bay volunteer project on October 20. — Brad K. Bahler ’08, secretary, 267-980-2177, bradbahler@mail.uri.edu

Saint Louis (ΖΤ)

Zeta Tau began the academic year in high spirits after winning a Sisson award at Convention this summer.

The Chapter’s GPA was much higher after last semester’s final grades. An alumni softball tournament and a formal event are in store for the Chapter in the future.

— Matthew P. Tallmadge ’09, secretary, 973-534-2798, tallmamp@slu.edu

San Jose State (ΖΗ)

Zeta Eta was put on probation and received news that it will lose its house by May 2008. Despite the situation, the Chapter has an optimistic mindset and still placed first in grades. The Annual Beta Breast Cancer Awareness Walk was successful in raising several hundred dollars to the American Cancer Society.

Zeta Eta released its first newsletter in three years. The Chapter held a successful Beta Thanksgiving alumni event. Bay Area alumni should contact the Zeta Eta Chapter for future events. — Viktor K. Beall ’09, alumni relations chairman, 510-387-4435, vkbeall@gmail.com

South Dakota (ΓΑ)

Gamma Alpha took five men in the newest pledge class. The flag football team went undefeated this year during the regular season. The Chapter had a great alumni turnout at our annual Dakota Days dinner. We’ve finished our annual highway cleanup and the next philanthropy event was Breakfast with Santa. — Dirk C. Waite ’09, secretary, 605-380-6147, dwaite@usd. edu

Southern California (ΓΤ)

Gamma Tau is back in its own house and still maintain a GPA above the all-men’s average. We regularly participate in sorority philanthropies and started to develop our own week of philanthropic events to be held during the spring semester. This fall we experienced our first official rush, and are extremely proud of the nine new members of exceptionally high quality. — Steven M. Gaughan ’10, secretary, 808-443-6724, gaughan@usc.edu

Stevens (Σ)

Sigma Chapter had three brothers who served as orientation leaders for incoming freshman.

The new member GPA was 2.88. In the recent IFC football tournament, the Chapter ended its run in the semi-finals. Nine brothers traveled to the 168th General Convention. George Bonnici ’59 received his Fraternal Fifties distinction. The Chapter made 200 sandwiches for the Hoboken homeless shelter in September. — Ward Sandler ’08, secretary, 201-216-3469, wsandler@stevens.edu

Texas-Arlington (∆Ρ)

Delta Rho is, once again, first in grades among all fraternities. More than half of the active Chapter holds a position in either Student Congress or as an ambassador for their major. The Chapter is committed to having a minimum of two events with the alumni each semester. Twenty new members joined this semester. The Chapter resurrected our philanthropic endeavor, Heroes for Hope. — Robert M. Haney ’08, secretary, 817-420-3968, b_haney1986@hotmail.com

Truman State (ΖΞ)

Zeta Xi recruited 22 excellent young men and earned its third Knox award at Convention. Among all 13 fraternities at Truman, the Chapter was first with a chapter GPA of 3.38. The intramural sports championship streak is likely to continue. The brothers tutor at a local elementary school weekly and will starting an annual charity bowling tournament, Frames with Benefits.

— Patrick C. Kilgore ’09, secretary, 314803-0842, pckilgore@truman.edu

Vanderbilt (ΒΛ)

Beta Lambda maintained a 3.25 GPA in the spring.

The Chapter held BBQ for a Cure, which raised more than $1,000 for the American Cancer Society. The goal for the semester is to have each member average 12 hours of community service by taking weekly trips to Feed the Children. Beta Lambda has two members on the Executive Board of Dance Marathon, an organization which raised more than $160,000 for the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in 2007.

— William D. Reiter ’08, 914-469-3302, william.d.reiter@vanderbilt.edu

Villanova (ΖΕ)

Zeta Epsilon recruited 12 members, which was well above the fraternity average for the fall semester.

The Chapter has made several steps in increasing our relationship with United Cerebral Palsy Foundation of Philadelphia; our members assisted the Foundation in their auction and help them raise more than $270,000. — Christopher J. David ’08, President, 516-650-2192, christopher. david@villanova.edu

Winter 2008

25

Virginia Tech (ΑΦ)

Despite some issues and the tragedy that befell the campus last semester, the Alpha Phi Chapter is turning a corner and well on its way to excellence.

This semester six men were selected as new members. The Chapter is focused on building alumni relations and transitioning to the spring recruitment process. Our chapter greatly appreciates the sincere concern and hospitality expressed to us by other chapters in the wake of the tragedy that occurred April 16, 2007. — Matthew T. Ragland ’09, secretary, 303-319-5948, mragla22@vt.edu

Wabash (Τ)

Tau’s new pledge class of 21 has been actively involved in the community and represented the house well during Homecoming week.

Congratulations to Andrew Rodenbarger ’08 who has been admitted to Indiana University School of Medicine and plans to attend next fall. The Chapter continues to hold numerous leadership positions on campus, as well as staying in the overall top three for campus GPA. — William R. Hoffman ’10, secretary, 317410-7145, hoffmanw@wabash.edu

Washington (ΒΩ)

Beta Omega posted an average GPA of 3.34, ranking the Chapter third of 29 fraternities. We are proud to announce that we are now on good status with the university, the IFC and the General Fraternity. Last spring the Chapter successfully brought back its annual Dragon Cup Philanthropy, drawing participation from eight sororities and donating $12,000 to Relay for Life. The pledge class includes 30 members and the Trident alumni newsletter is back in print with the second edition published this quarter. — Tristan P. Krause ’10, secretary, 509-993-2158, tpkrause@u.washington.edu

Washington-St. Louis (ΑΙ)

Many Alpha Iota seniors are fielding multiple job offers and acceptances into medical, law, business and other graduate school programs.

The Chapter held the fourth annual parents weekend dinner and fundraiser, which raised $1,500 for the annual Thurtene Carnival. We have another strong fall pledge class and are excited to see exceptional freshmen vie for the Recruitment Through Scholarship awards.

— David J. Phillips ’08, secretary, 314-6089404, djphilli@artsci.wustl.edu 26

The Beta Theta Pi

Wesleyan (ΜΕ)

Mu Epsilon recruited 17 men in the most recent pledge class. The Chapter played host to a charity concert performed by a local artist and assisted the university in hosting their annual Take Back the Night event.

Many brothers team up with the North End Action Team, a local mentoring program aimed to give guidance and leadership to local Middletown, Conn. residents. A lecture series kicked off in November with speeches by Wesleyan professors. — Field M. Yates ’09, secretary, 781-910-1468, fyates@wesleyan.edu Editor’s Note: Newman J. Hoffman ’09 served as Wesleyan’s delegate to the 168th General Convention.

West Chester (ΖΣ)

Zeta Sigma finished second in grades and first in new member grades for the spring semester. Six pledges joined during the fall semester and the Chapter recorded the most community service hours of any male organization in the past year. Zeta Sigma is hosting their first annual Powder Puff Football fundraiser this semester and recently organized a successful alumni football game and barbeque to reunite with alumni. — Christopher J. Bewick ’09, cbd5372@wcupa.edu

Wisconsin (ΑΠ)

Alpha Pi participated in Trick or Treat with the Greeks, a philanthropic event for local youth during Halloween. Fall 2007 recruitment helped increase pledge numbers from previous semesters. Many alumni visited the house for homecoming and other football games.

It is always a good time hearing about the glory days while looking out over the beautiful Lake Mendota. — Tym A. Rutkowski ’09, president, 262-442-1330, trutkowski@wisc.edu

WisconsinOshkosh (ΖΖ)

Zeta Zeta identified key areas of need and focused on recruitment, scholarship and succession planning as the means for a positive “changing of the guard” as many seniors prepare to leave Oshkosh. The chapter spent a day serving food to raise money for the homeless through the Empty Bowls project before Thanksgiving vacation.

The chapter is excited for the alumni/active retreat in February and a major Housing Corporation fundraising campaign.

— Benjamin D. Thornsberry ’07, president, 651-269-8983, drewthornsberry@gmail.com Omitted chapters did not submit a chapter report as of 12/4/07. The original deadline to submit was November 1.

West Virginia (ΒΨ)

The Chapter House is reopened after a fire code infraction evicted the members. Beta Psi is on pace to set a new standard with community service hours. Robert Zak ’08 was a Homecoming king candidate.

Ten new members pledged in the fall.

Come meet the brothers, see the excellent condition of the house and observe the great direction the Chapter is taking.

— John M. Mundy ’08, secretary, 304-4212068, jmundy@mix.wvu.edu

Westminster (Α∆)

Alpha Delta recruited 16 new members. With the growing concern for academic success and the absence of a fraternity house, grades played an enormous role in the recruitment process. Chapter members continue filling key leadership roles in various organizations including SGA, IFC and the Blue Blazers. The Chapter took the 2007 intramural softball championship. The future of the Chapter includes a new $3.3 million fraternity house.

— Brandon A. Schafer ’09, 573-592-5722, schafeba@westminster-mo.edu

An update of each chapter’s performance in relation to the Standard Chapter Operating Expectations (SCOE) is included online for your convenience. www.betathetapi.org/chapterinfo At this website you’ll be able to keep up with chapter finances, alumni giving, membership rosters, General Fraternity awards, contact information and much more.

This information is kept up-to-date and allows you to access the information as the Administrative Office has it.

Bythe

Numbers RANK UNIVERSITY 1 2 3 4 5 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

FALL ’07 RECRUITS

Oklahoma Central Florida British Columbia Arizona Missouri Alabama Florida Auburn Washington Oklahoma State John Carroll* Georgia Purdue Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Illinois Nebraska Indiana Middle Tennesee State Utah Wabash Oregon Truman State Kansas Kansas State

51 48 37 37 37 37 37 34 30 30 29 27 27 26 26 25 25 23 23 22 22 22 22 22

CHAPTER SIZE

TOTAL

% GROWTH

146 102 47 75 100 100 158 119 71 96 0 76 81 11 61 67 85 29 78 46 52 61 67 69

197 150 84 112 137 137 195 153 101 126 29 103 108 37 87 92 110 52 101 68 74 83 89 91

34.9% 47.1% 78.7% 49.3% 37.0% 37.0% 23.4% 28.6% 42.3% 31.3% 100.0% 35.5% 33.3% 236.4% 42.6% 37.3% 29.4% 79.3% 29.5% 47.8% 42.3% 36.1% 32.8% 31.9%

TOP CHAPTERS BY PERCENTAGE GROWTH 1 2 3 4 5

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi John Carroll Middle Tennesee State British Columbia Missouri-Kansas City

236.4% 100.0% 79.3% 78.7% 58.3%

TOP CHAPTERS BY TOTAL SIZE 1 2 3 4 5 5

Oklahoma Florida Auburn Central Florida Missouri Alabama

197 195 153 150 137 137

*New colony

Winter 2008

27

Sports R [Sports RoundUp] FOOTBALL

Cassen Jackson-Garrison ’08 led Vanderbilt with 594 yards and six touchdowns on 148 carries. His top game was 119 yards, three TDs versus Mississippi and he finished with 1,814 career yards. Handling deep snapper duties for the 6-6 Alabama Independence Bowl team was Brian Selman ’10 while defensive lineman Jonathan Karacozoff ’08 saw action for the 6-6 CalBerkeley Armed Forces Bowl squad. Playing for the 7-5 Indiana Insight Bowl team were tight end Taylor Donnell ’10 and defensive back Collin Taylor ’09. Baylor offensive tackle Ted Cassen Jackson-Garrison Tanner ’09 was on the Big Vanderbilt ’08 12 All-Academic team and teammate Sam Sledge ’09 saw action at center. Other Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as Div. I-A) players include quarterback Jorge Fernandez ’09 of Miami-Fla and wide receiver Bobby Corey ’11 of Idaho.

Robert Gimson

Carnegie Mellon ’08

Doo ’08 caught 10 passes for 243 yards while Brendan Howe had 14 catches for 178 yards. Key offensive linemen were Kurtis Meyer ’09, Ramsey Arnold ’09 and Chris Donlon ’10.

Clay Crites ’09 was on ESPN The Magazine’s Academic All-American first team and the All-UAA first team after posting 67 tackles, including six sacks. All-UAA first team punter Matt Adams ’08 averaged 39.2 on 50 punts and was an Academic All-American second team pick. Cornerback

Eleven undergraduates led Wabash to an 11-2 record and the NCAA Division III quarterfinals. Offensive tackle Brian Hilts ’08 and punter/kicker Chad Finley ’08 were named to the All-University Athletic Association first team. Wide receiver Bart Banach ’09 caught 43 balls for 642 yards and seven TDs on the way to All-UAA honorable mention.

Andrew Rode ’09 caught 26 passes for 336 yards. Running back Adam Pilli ’09 saw action. Other good defenders were defensive end Justin Sparks ’08, linebacker Addrian Frederick ’10, linebacker Brent Banach ’08 and lineman Nick Lyons ’08.

Forty-two Betas played for 7-4 Carnegie Mellon. All-UAA first team running back Robert Gimson ’08 ran for 1,076 yards and seven TDs on 193 attempts. He finished with 2,712 career yards. Center Anthony Ciotti ’08, guard Jason O’Donnell ’08, running back Colby Whitman ’08 and tight end Derek Wisniewski ’08 were on the All-UAA second team. Phil Pantalone ’10 passed for 346 yards and was MVP of the ECAC Southwest Bowl. Doug Facemyer ’09 ran for 134 yards and threw for 268 yards. Halfback David Babcock ’10 rushed for 207 yards. Wide receiver Jeremy 28

The Beta Theta Pi

Clay Crities

Carnegie Mellon ’09

Roundup Steve McGovern ’09, an All-UAA second teamer, had four interceptions, 44 tackles and seven break ups.

All-UAA honorable mention safety Josh Kresge ’10 had four interceptions and 45 stops. Other leading CMU defenders were linebacker Aleksey Tigay ’10, linebacker Jake Cundiff ’09, linebacker Cody Vild ’08, linebacker Socrates Zacharias ’10, lineman Matt Schulz ’08 and lineman Sean Kennedy ’10.

Yancey Edwards Kenyon ’09

All-North Coast Athletic Conference first team offensive tackle Yancey Edwards ’09 led 19 Betas on the Kenyon team. Earning All-NCAC mention was wide receiver Carlin Shoemaker ’08, who caught 76 passes for 900 yards and four scores. Running back Kyle Toot ’10 rushed for 379 yards and four TDs on 99 carries. Mike Hermanson ’10 completed 29 of 50 passes for 529 yards and five scores.

Starters on the offensive line were Brian Zistler ’10, Terry Johnson ’09, Daniel Gajewski ’09 and Paul Bogonis ’09. Key Kenyon defenders were linebacker Mike Chase ’08 (team

Carlin Shoemaker

Kenyon ’08

high 88 tackles), linebacker Chris Santagate ’08, back Bryan Jassin ’10, back Christopher Loggins ’08, linebacker Evan Ray ’10 and lineman Gabe Martinez ’10.

Four year regular punter A.J. Tauscher ’08 of Wesleyan earned All-NESCAC second team honors with 43 boots for a 37.0 average. Teammate Dave Brustein ’10 had 27 tackles at linebacker. Chris Gasbarra ’09 was the thirdleading receiver for 8-2 DePauw, catching 32 passes for 479 yards, five scores and returning 20 kickoffs for a 17.1 average. Winning All-CSFL second team honors for the Pennsylvania sprint football team were linebacker Michael McMullen ’10 and lineman Christian Corrigan ’10. Also playing were teammates John Curran ’10 and Dylan Serota ’10. Versatile Mark Stinson ’08 of Toronto caught 34 passes for 386 yards, rushed for 209 yards on 39 carries, ran back 10 kickoffs for a 15.8 average and had 65 punts for a 32 yard average.

Leading 10 Betas on the Hanover squad was All-HCAC first teamer Tyler Thiems ’09, who split time between wide receiver and quarterback. He completed 61 of 113 passes for 623 yards, caught 29 passes for 534 yards, returned 15 kickoffs for a 21.3 average and rushed for 138 yards. Named to the All-HCAC second team was kicker Matt Herron ’08, who had seven field goals and 21 extra points. Also on the All-HCAC second team was defensive end/punter Andrew Houtsch ’08, who had 27 tackles and a school record 71 punts for a 36.5 average.

Other offensive standouts for Hanover were Noel Somarriba ’08, Bobby Smart ’09 and Tyler Rump ’08. Defensive back Brooks Kieres ’08 led the team with eight deflections.

Linebacker Jake Crockett ’08 made 48 tackles and broke up five passes. Also aiding the Hanover defense were linebacker Cody Clouse ’09 and D.J. Wehby ’08.

The Knox squad featured 19 Betas. Leading the offense was All-Midwest Conference second team running back Aaron Willits ’08, the team’s most valuable offensive player and top rusher with 648 yards on 139 carries. Receiving All-MWC honorable mention was tackle Will Becque ’08 and quarterback George Nicholson ’10 who rushed for 296 yards, three scores while passing for 562 yards (39 of 86) and six TDs. Helping the offense were running back Grant Guimond ’09, linebacker Kyle Gordon ’10, wide receiver John Boylan ’08, receiver Derek LaRosa ’10, linemen Brad Becque ’08 and Tim Beishir ’08.

Leading the Knox defense was All-MWC second team end Jaran Rutledge ’08, who had 31 stops and five sacks.

Linebacker Kevin Corley ’08 was second with 86 tackles and gained All-MWC honorable mention, as did defensive end Tighe Burke ’09 and linebacker Jarrett Carrow ’08, who returned 19 kickoffs for a 25.2 average. Other defenders

Winter 2008

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Sports R were back Jordan Raess ’10, linebacker Zack LoMonaco ’08, linebacker Aaron Juarez ’10, linebacker Chris Carpenter ’08 and Marty Dertz ’09.

Leading nine Betas at Westminster was All-UMAC South Division first team co-captain/defensive back Blake Logan ’08, who picked off three passes and made 41 tackles. Cocaptain/defensive back Travis Foster ’08 had 39 tackles and won All-UMAC South Division mention. Other defenders were Alex Ploesser ’10, linebacker Chris Tsevis ’10 and linebacker Kyle Wagner ’10. Westminster receivers Chad Shank ’09 and Sean Johnson ’10 had 214 yards and 136 yards, respectively. Playing for Bethany were linebacker Ron Ermlick ’09 and offensive linemen Justin Elkins ’09, Ian McNally ’09 and Brandon Essington ’09. Trey Reliford ’10 of Sewanee ran back four kickoffs for an 18.2 average.

The Big Ten Network’s cable channel launched its football programming on August 30 and featured Thom Brennaman, Ohio ’86, on the lead broadcasting team. Just as he did in 2007, Brennaman called the game for Fox Network’s 2008 BCS football title game.

The Fraternity’s two current National Football League veterans saw their 2007 season ended early because of injuries. Long snapper Ryan Kuehl, Virginia ’94, of the New York Giants went on injured reserve with a calf injury prior to the first game. It marked the second time in five years with the Giants that he has missed an entire season with an injury. Ross Tucker, Princeton ’01, of the Washington Redskins also spent the season on the injured reserve list. He previously played five seasons (200105) with three teams.

Rob Lockhart

George Washington ’10

CROSS COUNTRY

Rob Lockhart ’10 was a key runner for George Washington. He placed 16th at the Carnegie Mellon Invitational 8K (26:24.51), had an 8K time of 27:27 at the Atlantic 10 championship and recorded a 10K time of 33:07 at the NCAA Mid-Atlantic regional meet. Skip Gilson ’08 was the top runner for North Dakota posting a 10K time of 34:25.27 at the NCAA Division II North Central regional.

He was fourth (25:51) at the Ron Pynn Invitational, seventh (27:04) at the Dickinson State 8K, eighth at the 10K Tim Young Pre-Regional and 30th (27:01.1) at the North Central Conference 8K meet.

Two Betas were among the leading runners at MissouriKansas City. Alex Lopez ’11 had a best finish of 20th (29:47) at the 8K Missouri State Classic and placed 46th (27:51) at the Summit League 8K meet. Teammate Jay 30

The Beta Theta Pi

Devineni had a 22nd place finish (30:15) at the Missouri State Classic and was 45th (27:46) at the 8K Summit League event. Mark Sprtel ’10 of Lawrence had the team’s third-best time at the Midwest Conference meet and ran an 8K time of 29:01 at the Division III Midwest regional.

Competing for Knox were Bryan Lund ’09 and Ryan Maniscalco ’09. Other runners were David Hearne ’10 of Wittenberg and Ryan Oelkers ’09 of Stevens.

OTHER SPORTS

In soccer, Knox forward Jose Leon ’09 earned All-Midwest Conference second team selection. He started every game and tied for third in scoring with 10 points (four goals, two assists.) Seeing action in 17 contests for the 12-5-1 DePauw squad was midfielder Brian Lawless ’10.

Eight Betas saw action for the Washington & Jefferson water polo team.

Among the leading scorers were Brent Johnson ’08 (32 goals), Eddie Werner ’09 (26 goals), Mike Adams ’08 (24 goals) and Steve Hilty ’10 (10 goals). Jeff Steiner ’08, Zach Nigrelli ’09, Dan Martin ’10 and John Todd ’10 were on the team as well.

Longtime major league baseball executive Bill Stoneman, Idaho ’66 announced his Jose Leon retirement as Los Knox ’09 Angeles Angels general manager in mid-October. The former big league pitcher will remain with the club as a senior adviser. Bart Zeller, Arizona ’63 spent the 2007 season as a coach with the Southern Illinois Miners of the independent Frontier League after being a bench and hitting coach for the Northern League’s Sioux Falls Canaries in the 2005-06 seasons. — J. Langhammer

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[Mystic Shrine]

In Loving Memory Alabama

Grigsby, Mickey H. ’66, Sept. 11

VanWyngarden, Howard A. ’40, March 4

McGuffin, Frank E. ’39, June 25 Sammis, Arnold F. III ’66, Sept. 8

Bowdoin

Cornell

British Columbia

Anderson, William M. ’62, March 10

California-Berkeley

Cotter, Robert J. ’47, Feb. 22 Wilcox, Judge Max Jr. ’41, Aug 14

Dietrich, Roy F. ’40, June 2 Lindenmuth, Lewis B. Jr. ’38, May 26

Hess, Dr. Spencer W. ’42, Sept. 23 Merrill, Richard W. ’53, Nov. 9 Sahlberg, William L. ’46, July 7

Illinois

Cole, Robert L. ’51, April 30

Indiana

Reese, David E. III (Chip) ’73, Dec. 4

Allman, John R. ’43, Oct. 1 Lee, Judge Gene B. ’44, Oct. 25 McKeeman, Leland S. Jr. (Stan) ’50, Sept.7

Duke

Iowa

Dartmouth

Baker, Frank W. ’42, Nov. 1 O’Kane, Calvin R. M.D. ’45, Aug. 2

Hendricks, Lewis S. ’41, Sept. 28

Nesbit, Jean R. ’40, April 5.

Riddell, Dr. Robert J. Jr. ’45, Aug. 16 Trapp, Charles F. Jr. ’40, July 4

East Carolina

Mengel, John I. ’47, Aug. 12

Case Tech

Bernard, John W. ’52, Nov. 24

Aspinwall, Arthur L. ’75, Oct. 16 Smiley, C. Earl III ’69, Sept. 21

Centre

Georgia Tech

Robbins, E. Petri ’62, Oct. 23

Grant, Lincoln S. (Link) ’29, March 22

Fleming, Theodore J. ’55, Sept. 2 Salier, Lynn E. ’56, Nov. 20

Chicago

GMI

Lawrence

Carnegie Mellon

Dillon, Timothy P.’85, May 25

Florida

Gylfe, Carl E. ’49, July 11 Ish, David A. ’59, Oct. 9

Aman, Dennis E. ’78, Oct. 22

Cincinnati

Price, William A. ’59, May 14

Foster, Frank M. ’50, Sept. 7

Clemson The Beta Theta Pi

Colgate

Beloit

Bird, Elmer S. ’43, Aug. 27

32

Turner, Anthony S. ’84, July 24

Hanover Idaho

Gibb, John M. ’35, May 13

Iowa State

Kansas State

Obiorah, Ifechukwu I. (Solo) ’97, Aug. 31.

Knox

Curry, Robert L. ’45, Sept. 20

Maine

Falt, Gordon H. Jr. ’52, Sept. 6

Miami

Borchers, Wilbert L. ’41, Sept. 6 Moses, James G. ’46, Aug. 28 Shera, William C. ’37, Sept. 13 Tracy, Roger W. Jr. ’60, Sept. 26

Michigan

Osgood, William H. ’48, Sept. 5 Preston, David M. ’52, Oct. 28

Southern Methodist

Croft, Claud W. (Buddy) ’60, Oct. 28 Ferris, Eric J., Jan. 18 Lambert, James D. ’64, Aug. 31

St. Lawrence

Gunnison, Hugh Jr. ’52, Oct. 7

Minnesota

Burau, James E. ’49, Nov. 22

Mississippi

Texas Tech

MIT

Gambel, Adam C. ’38, March 7

North Carolina

Thomas, Dale E. ’52, Aug.1

North Dakota

Wabash

Washington

Ohio Wesleyan

Shrader, Morgan D. ’54, Sept.1

Oklahoma

Cotter, Robert J. ’47, Feb. 22, 2007 Kostakos, Gustav G. ’51, Aug. 29

Washington-St. Louis Bell, William W. ’66, Nov. 23 Hall, Louis T. Jr. ’33, Dec. 18

Berry, Charles N. Jr. ’40, Oct. 26 Gray, Roger K. ’42, April 10 Jaquier, Melvin W. ’38, March 4 Moore, Steven E. ’68, Sept. 22 Wehmuller, James M. (Mike) ’94, Oct. 5

Washington & Jefferson

Oklahoma State

Wesleyan

Waterfield, Richard A. (Dick) ’61, Feb. 26, 2007

Oregon

McMath, George A. ’52, Oct. 24 Vieth, James M. ’39, Oct. 7

Purdue

Gadbury, James A. ’55, June 2 Rowe, William M. ’35, July 24

South Dakota

Clayton, George W. ’39, Sept. 5 McNickle, Marvin L. ’36, Aug. 19

Southern California

Aparicio, Joseph R. Jr. ’55, July 15 Hughes, W. Burton (Burt) ’52, Oct. 14

— Compiled by Phyllis Bowie

Olsson, Sture, I. ’42, Sept. 10

Ohio State

Jenkins, John A. Jr. ’50, Oct. 16 Rudy, John F. (Jack) ’53, Oct. 14

Burke, Thomas C. ’45, Feb. 23

Virginia

Cunningham, John T. ’40, June 15 Wilson, Oliver S. (Ollie) ’38, Jan. 20

Northwestern

Yale

Blosser, Merle N. ’71, Oct. 2 Walker, Harold H. Jr. (Hal) ’75, April 4

Cox, Linton G. ’52, Oct. 13 Jennings, Thomas B. Sr. ’46, Feb. 23, 2007.

Landis, Donald E. ’39, Sept. 25 Noonan, James J. ’50, Oct. 12 Wynne, Brooks ’37, Dec. 3

Haxo, John V. M.D. ’46, March 19

Chmielewski, Neil G. ’97, Nov. 23

Texas

Lily, Col. Warren R. (Bob) ’55, Oct. 12 Marshall, William H. Sr. (Bill) ’68, Sept. 6 Rutledge, William K. (Bill) ’41, Aug. 24 Stark, Temple C. ’68, Sept. 20

Pearson, Thomas H. (Babe) ’51, Oct. 22.

Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Metcalf, Theodore O. ’41, Feb. 23

Washington State

Wendt, Dr. Richard A. ’62, Aug. 2

Newman, John B. ’38, March 19

Westminster

Swift, Freeman B. ’47, Sept. 22

Western Ontario

Taylor, Donald C. ’62, Oct. 13

Willamette

Edwards, Miles J. ’51, March 23 Hedeen, Wesley R. (Wes) ’52, March 28 Schmidt, Karl D. ’51, Oct. 9

Wisconsin

Wenzel, William H. ’42, Aug. 20

Photo by Guy Vaught

Eric Ferris, Southern Methodist ’88 had a young family, a devoted wife and terminal cancer. In April 2006, he was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer that started in his pancreas. After surgery and aggressive treatment that included radiation and intensive chemotherapy for months, Ferris was re-diagnosed in October 2006 with terminal cancer as it had spread aggressively to his liver. He was given six months to live. Brother Ferris lost his battle on January 18, 2008. Learn about Eric and his young family at www.ericferris. com. Contributions to The Ferris Children Benefit Fund* may be mailed to: The Ferris Children Benefit Fund c/o Jennifer Ferris P.O. Box 641039 Los Angeles, CA 90064-1039 *proceeds go to help with Jackson, Carter and Reagan’s educations “The most important thing to me in all my life is the happiness of my family. Anyone who can help me fulfill that dream for my children so that they can experience a special childhood filled with joy and fun will be doing more for me than they will ever know.”

— Eric Ferris, Southern Methodist ’88

Read more about brothers who have passed away by logging on to www.thebetathetapi.org. Click on Mystic Shrine. The online information is more timely and informative than what can be featured in the Magazine.

Winter 2008

33

[The Last Word] Where’s the Beef?

by Tyler Van Der Schaaf, San Diego ’09

B

e forewarned: I did not initiate my father into my chapter’s roll books since he’s already a Delt. Nor do I have a heartwarming story about a three-legged dog. And I certainly haven’t even begun to consider where to look for my Beta sweetheart…let’s please not go down that road just yet. No, this is only a reflection of a more non-paranormal Beta experience and thus, not nearly as touching as those previously featured in the Magazine (unless of course, you have a strange connection to beef patties.)

Even more, his attitude and excitement for the Fraternity was contagious.

To the collective group, he redeemed our chapter.

Rather, this story is about a chapter president’s selfless act and young member who bolstered my confidence in an opportunity available to all undergraduate Betas.

Clearly, chapter presidents do not always make “popular” decisions; the job unfortunately excludes such a luxury. The job to which the presidency lends itself, however, includes the rare opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the future of the chapter.

As many know, this fall our chapter enjoyed a chartering installation where we finally celebrated the hard work of countless individuals through the last few years. It was at this event that our president surprised the Chapter with one of his more popular decisions during his reign.

He presented each chapter member with a Beta Theta Pi watch, telling us they were paid for under one condition; pledge to at some point contribute the monetary value of the watch to a fund created for sending members to leadership opportunities.

His goal: roughly $50,000 and a lasting legacy from the members of the chartering era.

The watches serve as constant reminders to be involved, to be proud of a Fraternity that supported and cultivated the transition to adulthood — especially when reaching alumni status.

What’s so exceptional is our outgoing president gets it; he understands what this fraternity stands for — a group of men who, in a social

34

The Beta Theta Pi

environment, promote mutual aid and assistance, the cultivation of the intellect and a lasting brotherhood. More generally, he grasps that Beta Theta Pi is in the business of constructing principled men…even going as far as considering the unknown faces in the Chapter’s future.

It would take another individual in our chapter to help me make the final leap towards a similar perspective; watching this younger individual’s growth served as the missing link.

He wasn’t always so enamored with Beta. Only a few days before initiation, this younger member had very real doubts about a commitment to the Fraternity. In fact, he seemed indifferent to the entire experience. However, he overcame those feelings and was initiated. Summer came along and someone, or rather something, sparked his interest in attending a Beta leadership experience.

Knowing him, his reason was probably overtly simplistic. You see, this younger member has had a lifelong goal of enjoying at least one hamburger in every U.S. state and to my knowledge he hadn’t been to Ohio. Therefore, a trip to Oxford was a just another way to travel for a few days and check the state off his list. At that time, he didn’t recognize the change he would soon undergo.

Post-leadership experience, this member came alive — he emerged as a strong voice and a supportive brother. Even more, his attitude and excitement for the Fraternity was contagious. To the collective group, he redeemed our chapter.

For me personally, he rekindled a somewhat diminishing Beta flame that often comes with one’s later college days.

A year ago, he was initiated as the last roll number in his pledge class. What was unseen at the time was that he would, from all angles, be the leading force of an entire chapter. To this day, while he is one of my good friends, we have not discussed his actual experience from that given program.

No need.

Sometimes it is just better to see the results.

A Lasting Moment

L D

uring the fall of 2006, the Beta Theta Pi Founda�on staff was no�fied of an impending estate gi� from Herschel Bowyer, Denison ’51 and his wife Mary Ann. Bowyer was a good donor to the Beta Leadership Fund throughout the ‘90s but, other than that, li�le was known the couple’s love for the Fraternity. It is clear now that their mutual adora�on for Beta Theta Pi ran in the family tree – far deeper than one would have suspected.

Bowyer was the son, nephew and cousin to at least nine Denison Betas; records at the Administra�ve Office in Oxford, Ohio, indicate that there are at least 11 Betas in the Bowyer family.

This may make it a li�le clearer as to why, upon Mary Ann’s passing in 2006, the Beta Founda�on was named co-beneficiary to their estate, along

with Denison University, their church and the Delta Gamma Founda�on. Fi�ngly, the Bowyers chose to leave legacies to the four ins�tu�ons that most affected their lives.

This past year the Beta Theta Pi Founda�on received more than $850,000 from the estate of Herschel and Mary Ann Bowyer – and we are grateful. Incredibly grateful. That is why, consistent with our gi� acceptance policies, the Bowyer’s gi� was deposited into the Founda�on’s endowment. A measure that allows the Bowyer’s generosity to make an impact now, and in the future. And as a result, it will con�nue to grow and provide resources, services and programs – forever – to help “build men of principle for a principled life.” Just like Herschel and his sweetheart, Mary Ann.

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

The True Meaning of Life . . . is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit. — Nelson Henderson

With a goal of sponsoring 320 young Betas to attend

The John and Nellie Wooden Institute for Men of Principle and 42 to The Donald W. English Beta Wilderness Challenge, the Beta Foundation needs a lot of planters . . .

How ‘bout you? www.betathetapi.org/gift

Beta Theta Pi foundation