April 2015 Cross & Crescent

C ro s s & c r e s c e n t - e s t. 1 9 3 2

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EXTENDING A HAND By: Kyle Jones (Montevalo)

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HONORING SACRIFICE By: Bill Rufty (The Ledger)

DUKE BROTHER NAMED TO HEALTH CARE HALL OF FAME

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THE FARM BOY’S WARM HEART By: Andrew L. Daar (Michigan 2007)

THE MANY FACES OF LDRSHIP

Loyalty Duty Respect Service & Stewardship Honor Integrity Personal Courage Brothers from across the bond committed to serving our ideals.

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EDITORIAL: DIVERSITY IN GREEK LIFE By: Takunda Ndoro

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CHAPTER NEWS By: Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)

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FROM THE EDITOR

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archives

FROM THE EDITOR

2015 March

Kyle Jones Associate Director of Communications (317) 803-7321 kjones@lambdachi.org

2015 February 2014 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February

I N

T H I S

I S S U E

To say the least, it’s been an interesting month.

The fraternity world was once again placed in the national spotlight for behavior far from anything one could be proud of, and here we were, left wondering what exactly to say in regards to this one bad apple, only to realize that so much of our bushel could possibly be rotten.

What’s to be done with these drunken, sexually assaulting, privileged, racist, young men running wild across our college campuses? Many called for the disbandment of the entire system, wonderfully and often hilariously pointing out the stereotypes and moments of shameful behavior and practices.

But the thing is, I’m not a stereotype, and I’d put good faith in saying the same about the thousands of young men and alumni out there doing fraternity the right way.

In today’s debate, no longer do five good deeds make up for one wrong, and our actions will not speak louder than words, but in the face of this, it has not stopped our members, along with fellow Greeks, from exercising what we believe in and making a difference in our world in the best possible way.

In this issue you’ll find stories of men dedicated to being more than just a stereotype or caricature.

Men like Branden Ryan (Mercer), who is putting his talents to use with the Peace Corps in Tanzania and going the extra mile, and Michael Knapp (Michigan) who is also making an impact in Africa by drilling wells, building farms and providing education.

Men like David Huffine (UNC- Greensboro) and Jack Bovender (Duke)who are being recognized as innovators and pioneers in their respective professional careers, all while testing the notion of what was expected of them along the way.

And men like Takunda Ndoro (Maryland - College Park), a current undergraduate who challenges the ideas of cultural and ethnic identity in his community head on.

These are the people who represent what it means to be a fraternity man, and most importantly a Lambda Chi. Let’s share their stories and follow in their example, then may we be able to change opinions and better yet, set the example and standard for the modern fraternal culture.

In ZAX,

Kyle Jones Editor, Cross & Crescent Magazine

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EXTENDING A HAND: A BROTHER’S DEDICATION TO SERVICE

The history of Lambda Chi brothers and their commitment to service projects and giving back to their communities is no secret; it’s actually more of a tradition. b y Ky l e J o n e s ( M o n t e v a l l o )

FEATURE - Article Title

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FEATURE - EXTENDING A HAND: A BROTHER’S DEDICATION TO SERVICE

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Ryan has spent his time in Tanzania with two ongoing projects, his primary Making a difference in the lives of responsibility being to educate, in which those around us is simply ingrained in our he spends his days teaching classrooms full fraternal culture, and what separates us from of eager children. His secondary focus is to most is that our brothers continue to find bring awareness and education on matters ways to give back, not only on their campus of health, including holding sessions on or in their hometown or state, but across the female reproductive health for his students globe. and community members as well as for Branden Ryan (Mercer 2013) applied to neighboring villages and schools. volunteer with the Peace Corps in 2012, and Former Grand High Zeta member Daniel in early 2013 - before graduation - Ryan was Larson said of Ryan, “He’s a great example accepted and assigned to service in Tanzania. of the kind of men Lambda Chi Alpha With his diverse background and education produces, and how we should continue to in international affairs it only made sense to live and exemplify the Lambda Chi Alpha give back through an opportunity with the values long after a degree is placed in our storied organization. hands.”

“When I found out, I thought, ‘OK, this Living up to such a grand introduction, is what I’ll do for the next two years,’” said Ryan showed the exact merit Larson spoke Ryan. on. Unsatisfied with fulfilling the standard “For me it’s a continuation of our core expectations of those serving with the values, it only made sense to give back in Peace Corps, Ryan decided to take what this way,” he continued. “To educate and he believed in a step further, by mentoring be a part of the lives of kids, influencing three young men he felt exemplified the and shaping them as a role model, it’s characteristics of a brother of Lambda Chi always been about having that service and Alpha. stewardship mindset.”

S T O R Y

Branden Ryan has spent the past few years involved with the peace corps making a difference in Tanzania

FOR ME IT’S A CONTINUATION OF OUR CORE VALUES...

—Branden Ryan (Mercer 2013)

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FEATURE - EXTENDING A HAND: A BROTHER’S DEDICATION TO SERVICE

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...I THOUGHT BY SETTING UP A GOFUNDME PAGE, PEOPLE COULD HELP THESE YOUNG MEN AND ACTUALLY SEE THOSE RESULTS. —Branden Ryan (Mercer 2013) “There are three male students, one of whom recently finished his ordinary levels, which is the equivalent of high school, whom I saw as having potential to succeed but had great barriers placed in front of them.” said Ryan.

“They are hard working, honest young men who are diligent, studious leaders at the school and I thought, ‘How can I have a greater impact?’”

Ryan explained that one boy had lost his father and had been raised by his mother, who works on a farm and struggles to put

her son through school. The others also face adversity on a daily basis. Their stories spoke to him so greatly that Ryan began to look for a way to connect them with people in the U.S. who could make a direct impact on their lives in Africa.

“You can donate to a lot of umbrella causes but you don’t actually know where your money is going, so I thought by setting up a GoFundMe page, people could help these young men and actually see those results,” said Ryan.

At the moment, Ryan has been able to raise a little over half the funds needed

to pay for the school fees for those three young men and hopes to reach that goal in the next few weeks.

“When you’re teaching about our core values and what they mean and how they manifest in our college years, service and stewardships is like the hands on our coat of arms,” explains Ryan, “It’s the action of what you believe in. My time as an undergrad helped me have a stronger drive to keep on pursuing service that is life changing for kids, myself, Tanzania and America.”

To donate and get to know those Ryan is helping visit www.gofundme.com/

BrandenTZ and follow his blog at brandenabroad.wordpress. com for updates.

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FEATURE - HONORING SACRIFICE: FAMILY,FRIENDS KEEP MEMORY OF FALLEN SOLDIER ALIVE

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HONORING SACRIFICE: FAMILY, FRIENDS KEEP MEMORY OF FALLEN SOLDIER ALIVE by: Bill Rufty

This article originally appeared in THE LEDGER Tuesday, March 17, 2015

MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

S T O R Y

LAKELAND | Charlie Rubado was military through and through, a top student at Florida Southern College, an ROTC cadet and one of the calmest, most sincere people around.

That’s how Derek Oxford remembers his close friend, 2nd Lt. Charles R. Rubado.

He was an armor officer assigned to the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, commanding a squadron of four Abrams tanks, when he was killed Aug. 29, 2005, in Tal Afar, northern Iraq. He was 23 years old.

Almost 10 years later, Florida Southern’s only fatality in Operation Enduring Freedom, Rubado has not been forgotten as simply a statistic in a long war.

“I first met Charlie in our sophomore year,” said Oxford, now a financial planner with CPS in Lakeland. “The first day I met him, he walked into the room and said, ‘What do you like to do,’ and I told him martial arts. We sparred for fun, talked weapons and watched those really bad Chinese (Kung fu) movies.’’

Oxford joined Lambda Chi Alpha, in which Rubado was already a member.

“He was a genuinely kind person. He was one of those calm, collected guys and, for that reason, moved up the ranks quickly in ROTC,” Oxford said.

“Someone literally shot a gun right beside his face and he just calmly turned and said, ‘That’s not what we do around here,’ “ he said.

Rubado’s mother is Thai, Oxford said, and the two friends joked and talked of the rigors of Thai boxing.

On a family trip to Thailand, he bought them both Thai professional boxing shorts.

“They are the one thing that reminds me of Charlie and all the fun,” said Oxford.

Rubado married Mary Ann Hollingsworth. a fellow student at Florida Southern.

“I wasn’t in the wedding party,” Oxford said. “Instead, I was back with them getting ready and did a lot of personal photos for them.”

By that time, Oxford had transferred to Florida State University and was studying for a degree in finance, but the two got together often.

Upon graduation, Rubado was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant, and he and his wife moved to Fort Carson, Colo., for his training in tank school. When he was deployed, Mary Ann stayed at Fort Carson.

“I still remember getting the phone call from a fraternity brother that he had been killed,” Oxford said. “It was wrenching.”

To participate in the April 3 Charles R. Rubado Memorial Golf Tournament, contact www. flsouthern.edu/rotcgolf/or call 863-680-4273.

Shotgun start begins at 1 p.m. at Cleveland Heights Golf Course, 2900 Buckingham Ave., Lakeland.

Among the prizes is a $3,000 Hawaiian vacation. Individual costs are $75 or $65 for students with ID. Sponsorships from $100 to $2,000 also are available along with promotional signs.

- Article Title FEATURE - HONORING SACRIFICE: FAMILY,FRIENDS KEEP MEMORY OFFEATURE FALLEN SOLDIER ALIVE

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“AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING, WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. — O D E O F R E M E M B R A N C E F R O M “ F O R T H E FA L L E N ” As he had been at his friend’s wedding, Oxford was at his funeral. But he is at many additional events honoring his friend, as friends, family and the college community work to keep Rubado’s memory alive.

The first Lakeland bus shelter honoring a fallen soldier was named for Rubado.

“The fraternity members and alumni go to his grave in Clearwater twice a year. And we have a benefit golf tournament each spring,’’ he said.

“The fraternity usually fields a team and I get a foursome together.”

The annual Charles R. Rubado Memorial Golf Scramble is April 3 at Cleveland Heights Golf Course to raise scholarship funds. “(Rubado’s) father requested that we do something fun because Charlie loved fun and played golf,” said the Florida Southern ROTC commander, Lt. Col. Scott LaRonde. “We hope to build the scholarship into an endowment.”

The ROTC unit also has Rubado’s uniform and medals and citations in its library.

Remembering those who died, even years ago, is crucial.

“In 20 years, I have lost a few friends, LaRonde said. “As

a society, it is important that we do remember, that we do honor the sacrifices so that we understand that when we commit to action it must be for the right reasons.”

Oxford and other friends remember.

“I still stay in touch with Mary Ann (who has since remarried) and with friends who knew him. It is important that you know who you are and how you are supposed to be.”

Those who knew him would agree that Rubado did. [ Bill Rufty can be reached at bill.rufty@theledger.com or 863-802-7523. ]

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DUKE BROTHER NAMED TO HEALTH CARE HALL OF FAME

Bovender, now 69, held many roles at HCA, spending 37 of his 40 years in the industry there.

He took over as the forprofit chain’s president and CEO in 2001, retiring as chairman in 2009. During his tenure, the company

WILL JOIN 98 OTHER INDUSTRY LUMINARIES continued to grow through mergers and acquisitions, notably with the addition of Health Midwest of Kansas City, Mo., in 2003.

Modern Healthcare has announced the induction of an industry veteran and brother of Lambda Chi Alpha into the Health Care Hall of Fame—Jack O. Bovender Jr. (Duke 1967), former chairman and CEO of Nashville-based hospital chain HCA joins the class of 2015.

The company was also a leader in promoting diversity, especially through its COO Development Program, which Bovender championed. It served as a launching pad for young executives, including

many minority candidates, speeding up their rise in the leadership ranks.

Bovender named himself chief diversity officer to oversee implementation of the program, which became a model for the industry.

Bovender was profiled in the March 16 issue of Modern Healthcare and was honored at a gala on March 15 in Chicago, in conjunction with the American College of Healthcare Executives’ 2015 Congress on Healthcare Leadership, which took place on March 16-19.

Bovender will join 98 other industry luminaries who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame since its inception in 1988. The hall is housed at Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, America’s first hospital.

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VALPO NON-PROFIT SUCCEEDS IN FUNDING CRIBS FOR INFANTS IN NEED Logan Mulvihill (Valparaiso 2016), founder of the nonprofit BridgeMe Youth, conducted the first annual “Crib-aThon” donation event to raise money for cribs for infants and families in need. After a three week campaign with a goal of raising $1500 to provide 30 cribs, BridgeMe Youth ended up with $1600 to purchase 32 cribs for the local Family Youth and Service Bureau.

Mulvihill started the campaign on his university’s campus after 11 months of organizing BridgeMe Youth as a legitimate non-profit. With the help of his chapter, Iota-Sigma Zeta, Mulvihill was able to acquire donations through established campus connections such as Valpo Greek Life and other student organizations.

The campaign was a dream that Mulvihill finally saw become a reality, a work-in-progress that began when Mulvihill was first inspired to impact youth health. “What inspired me to start Crib-a-Thon was knowing that infants are in need and that I have an opportunity to make a difference,” said Mulvihill.

After BridgeMe Youth’s successful campaign, Mulvihill expressed his thanks to the Valparaiso University community saying, “having these cribs will greatly impact the community by giving infants a safe and comfortable place to sleep.”

BridgeMe Youth is a non-profit organization that provides awareness, resource provision, and education to improve childhood health in under-served communities around the world.

PHOTO FEATURE - VALPO NON PROFIT SUCCEEDS...

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Brothers from the Iota-Sigma Zeta at Valparaiso deliver cribs after raising $1600 for the local Family Youth and Service Bureau.

PHOTO FEATURE - VALPO NON PROFIT SUCCEEDS...

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A UNIQUE BUT LITTLE KNOWN RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU Jerry Homer “Dad” Krenmyre is a legendary figure from the days of the formation and development of the Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity to its union with Lambda Chi Alpha in 1939. In addition to being one of the principle founders of TKN, he is credited as the individual most responsible for the various rituals of the Fraternity. by: Mike Raymond (Miami-Ohio 1967)

FEATURE - A UNIQUE BUT LITTLE KNOWN RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU

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FEATURE - A UNIQUE BUT LITTLE KNOWN RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU

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THE RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU

In the introduction to the 1928 edition of the Ritual of Theta Kappa Nu, Krenmyre modestly acknowledges the assistance of Leroy A. Wilson (Indiana Gamma) and Donald F. Lybarger (Pennsylvania Alpha). The truth be told their assistance was more in the form of encouragement and moral support than actual substance. As Billy Frye, writing in a brief biography of Krenmyre for the Theta News, commented, “The ritual is the work of his mind.”

His experience as a successful minister and his involvement in Freemasonry most definitely colored his ideas about ritualism.

His ritualistic masterpiece, The Ritual of Theta Kappa Nu was explored in detail in the October 2006 issue of the Cross & Crescent magazine.

A LESSER KNOWN RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU

This article will highlight The Corner Stone Laying Ceremony, a lesser known and unique ritual of Theta Kappa Nu. This ritual has no counterpoint in the ritual work of Lambda Chi Alpha. As far as can be determined, no other fraternity or sorority has such a ritual. This is surprising in that new buildings, such as chapter houses and headquarters, are a notable event in the existence of these organizations.

Some fraternities, such as Sigma Chi, have Chapter House Dedication ceremonies that are open to the public. These ceremonies do not involve the actual dedication of a cornerstone.

Lambda Chi Alpha does not have a chapter house dedication ceremony. In 1965 Zeta-Upsilon Zeta dedicated its new, expanded chapter house with a grand ceremony that involved participants and guests from Miami University, other Greek organizations, and staff from our headquarters. Speeches were given and a plaque was installed during the ceremony. In the absence of an official ceremony, the dedication ceremony was created by officers of the chapter. There was no cornerstone laying ceremony.

The following ritual of Theta Kappa Nu focuses on the building cornerstone and a ceremony that is held long before the building is ready for occupancy.

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THE CORNERSTONE LAYING CEREMONY

Basic instructions for the presentation of the ceremony are mentioned in the introduction to the ritual. The Grand Archon or his designee is to preside over the ceremony. The local chapter officers are to make all the necessary arrangements for the event.

The actual ceremony unfolds in this manner:

PROGRAM

SONG – “America.”

PRAYER – (When possible, some brother who is a minister shall offer an extemporaneous prayer. If this is impossible, then the Chaplain of the chapter shall offer the following.) Great God, the Father of us all, we invoke thy divine blessing upon this ceremony. May we not only lay the cornerstone of this physical building , but may we also build our lives upon the four cardinal principles or cornerstones of our beloved Fraternity, which are BROTHERHOOD, LEARNING, PATRIOTISM, and MORALITY. May the house which will here be erected become a true home to the brothers who will find shelter within it; and from its hearthstone may there ever radiate the highest ideals of manhood. Amen.

BROTHERS – Amen.

SHORT ADDRESS BY GRAND ARCHON. CEREMONY OF LAYING CORNERSTONE- (The following formalities shall be observed.)

PRESIDENT OF COLLEGE

Within this box my hands have placed the formal permission granted by ___________College (or University) to __________ Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity to erect this building as the home of its members while on this campus. May this building here to be raised long abide as an expression of the spirit of cooperation existing between the college and the fraternity.

REGISTRAR OF THE COLLEGE – Within this box my hands have placed the true record of the scholastic standing of the members of __________Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity.

Jerry Homer “Dad” Krenmyre is a legendary figure from the days of the formation and development of the Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity to its union with Lambda Chi Alpha in 1939.

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commit this reliquary wherein have been placed various appropriate documents. It is of copper and is sealed. I ask you to place it in the foundation stone of the home of __________Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity, that it may remain there during the life of the building as a sacred memorial prepared by CHAIRMAN OF THE BUILDING those who have participated in these COMMITTEE ceremonies today. (Chapter Archon Within this box my hands have placed the plans of this building and hands box to Grand Archon.) data concerning its erection.“Back of the beating hammer by which GRAND ARCHON the steel is wrought, Back of the From you, Brother __________ workshop’s clamor, the seeker may as Archon of your chapter, I find the thought,The thought that receive this reliquary and as a is ever master of ever part and representative of the Grand Chapter whole,The heart and the brain of of Theta Kappa Nu, I now place it labor, which gives the work a soul.” in the foundation stone of the home of __________Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity; and with the ORACLE trowel I set it in place that it may Within this box my hands have remain as a record of a memorable placed the history of __________ day in the history of this chapter Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu and of the Fraternity.

Fraternity, together with a current (Benediction shall be pronounced copy of our magazine and a history by some minister, if possible a of the Fraternity. May this building brother.) stand firm and strong thruout the May this building long stand upon this spot and may those going forth to the world from the membership of this chapter be scholars who will contribute to the service of mankind.

years as an expression of the ideals of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity.

CHAPTER ARCHON

To you, Brother __________as Grand High Archon of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity, I now

OBSERVATIONS

A Cornerstone Laying Ceremony is defined on the Burning taper blog as “…the symbolic laying of the cornerstone, that which supports (again, symbolically) the entire

FEATURE - A UNIQUE BUT LITTLE KNOWN RITUAL OF THETA KAPPA NU

structure. When the cornerstone is discussed, by extension, it refers not only to the actual physical actions to erect the building project, but also to the mental, spiritual, even metaphysical energies that have come together to cause the creation of the edifice.”

As well documented, “Dad” Krenmyre was a knowledgeable and very active member of the Masonic Fraternity. However, it does not appear that his experiences as a mason influenced this ceremony.

There is no relationship between the Cornerstone Laying Ceremony of Theta Kappa Nu and that of Freemasonry. The Masonic ceremony is much more elaborate and includes such elements as corn, wine, and oil. None of the signs, symbols, or tokens of Freemasonry is found in the Theta Kappa Nu ceremony devised by Krenmyre.

His experience as a Christian minister did influence him as he created this unusual ritual of Theta Kappa Nu. The emphasis on prayer is evident throughout the ritual. The general feeling of spirituality that permeates the ritual reflects his own great spirituality.

Two of the four cardinal principles of the fraternity, Patriotism and Scholarship, find expression within the ceremony. In practice, these two principles were distinguishing characteristics of

the Theta Kappa Nu brotherhood.

The importance of Patriotism is expressed by the singing and playing of “America”. The importance of Scholarship to Theta Kappa Nu is supported by the inclusion of the record of the chapter’s scholastic standing in the cornerstone and the call for them to go into the world as “… scholars who contribute to the service of mankind”.

QUESTIONS REMAIN

While the Cornerstone Laying Ceremony is well documented, there remain questions about its actual use that need be answered. There is no official record of this ceremony being used to lay a cornerstone for a Theta Kappa Nu chapter house.

Is there documentary evidence that establishes the use of this ritual? Do photographs, newspaper articles or official Theta Kappa Nu documents exist that prove this ritual was ever used? Is there a former Theta Kappa Nu chapter house with a dedicated cornerstone that needs to be reported? The answers to these questions are unknown at this time and remain to be discovered in the future.

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FEATURE - THE FARM BOY’S WARM HEART

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THE FARM BOY’S WARM HEART From humble roots and lack of inspiration to a dedication to commitment and making a difference

By: Andrew L. Daar (Michigan 2007)

S T O R Y

Michael Knapp (Michigan 1964), Sigma 874, has lived a life worth envying. In his law career alone, he has represented professional athletes and indigent farmers in need of a voice; he worked for a prestigious Detroit firm and ran his own practice. His 35 year law career was just the beginning of his exceptional life. He owned a hockey team, traveled the world, wrote a novel and started an international charity. He is currently in the process of pitching an unscripted golf-and-travel television series, but all of these larger-than-life achievements can be traced back to his time at Lambda Chi Alpha.

Knapp grew up in rural Michigan, and most of the people he knew were local family farmers. He went his entire childhood without ever meeting a member of his future profession, and he jokes that he himself was the first lawyer he ever met. Even though Ann Arbor was only 15 miles away from his childhood home, going to the University of Michigan was an enormous culture shock to young Knapp. He tells people he went to college 15 miles and 15 light years from home. When he arrived at Michigan, he had no conception of what college was because no one else in his family had ever gone. He had no idea what he was going to study or even just how he would spend his time at the University of Michigan. It wasn’t until Knapp found Lambda Chi that he began to focus on his goals.

It was through his brothers at Sigma Zeta that Knapp began to understand the full range of options open to him at the university. He saw his brothers – people like David

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Knapp with the sigma zeta during his time as an undergrad Sheldon (Michigan 1964), his close friend who would go on to be the rush chairman during their time at Sigma – spearhead Lambda Chi events and pursue various majors, and was inspired by their drive. Knapp’s brothers taught him about what he could become if he committed to an idea. He went from being someone who was threatened with expulsion for failing to select a major by his junior year to someone who could successfully get elected to the student government.

The lessons Knapp learned from his brothers stuck with him over the course of his life. After college, he went to law school and was hired by a Detroit law firm. Knapp’s years at the firm proved lucrative in terms of experience and meeting numerous people in the world of professional sports. He later chose to move to Grand Rapids and open his own law practice. Inspired by his father, Knapp wanted to be his own boss and take the cases he cared about. It was during his time as a sole-practitioner that Knapp litigated the case that would later serve as the basis for his current book, “Buying the Farm.”

In 2002, Knapp left law to focus on devoting more time to Warm Hearts Foundation, a charity he founded in 1999.

The foundation began by purchasing excess inventory from retailers like Target and providing clothing to families in need. After the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Knapp wanted

FEATURE - THE FARM BOY’S WARM HEART

to focus on helping New York City’s first responders, so the foundation began funding a 24/7 restaurant near ground zero. The restaurant provided free meals to New York City police officers and firefighters, where they could have a meal at any hour of any day.

Eventually, the Warm Hearts Foundation changed its focus again, this time providing a better life for impoverished Africans. A chance trip to Africa informed Knapp of the plight of many Kenyan and Malawian children who do not have fresh water readily available. The foundation began drilling wells for remote African villages, ensuring that the children could focus on their education and not have to travel four hours every day to obtain water.

As of today, the foundation has sunk 270 deep-water wells, each serving roughly 1,500 people. The foundation has also helped build farms, classrooms and operates an orphanage.

Knapp with children he helps to provide fresh water and proper facilities for through the Warm Hearts Foundation.

It has upgraded dilapidated orphanages with no utilities into buildings complete with electricity and plumbing. The foundation also pays for the higher education of its kids. To date, two medical doctors, two journalists, an aeronautical engineer and a community planner have graduated, and more are on the way. The foundation devotes 100 percent of the donations it receives to the projects it undertakes, with the board of directors paying the expenses out of pocket.

Today, Knapp remains involved with Warm Hearts Foundation as a director emeritus.

Currently, he is focusing on producing a television program entitled “Tee for Two.” A cable TV show combining travel, food and fashion.

Each episode follows Knapp and his very significant Jeannine as they travel to golf courses across the U.S. and Europe exploring golf, culinary treats and the social aspects of the week’s location.

“Tee for Two” is on the web at www. summitsportstelevision. com using the entry code World Golf for a glimpse of the program.

Knapp’s novel, “Buying the Farm,” continues to sell and is available on Amazon in hardback, paperback and Kindle. All proceeds of the book go the Warm Hearts Foundation’s education fund. The website is www.warmheartsfoundation.org.

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Diversity in Greek life: Let’s have a conversation How simply talking about diversity can influence UMD’s Greek Life for the better.

B y : Ta k u n d a N d o r o ( M a r y l a n d C o l l e g e Pa r k ‘ 1 6 ) This article originally published at http://theodysseyonline.com/maryland/diversitygreek-life-lets-have-conversation/97348 As a minority in a traditionally white fraternity at the University of Maryland, I am more of an anomaly than I would care to be.

I came to feel this way when being asked, “Why did you join a white fraternity?” -- which after cautious prodding, usually translates into, “What is it like being a black guy in a white fraternity?” -- became the leading reaction to me showing my letters.

Although I cannot speak for all minorities in Greek Life here at Maryland; I believe that my experiences, so far, are no more tinged by race and ethnicity than those of daily student life. As to why I joined a predominately white fraternity, well, I made the decision to join an organization that reflected my values, beliefs and character; the ethnic composition of its members was never a factor. And I realize now that, in doing so, I became part of a society filled with people I would not ordinarily have had the chance to meet, enriching me in ways a fraternity consisting of people more ethnically similar to me could not.

Of course, like in any situation where one is a minority, there are, and will continue to be, plenty of uncomfortable situations, but the bonds of brotherhood have been strong enough that forgiveness and education have neutralized most issues. That is my experience with diversity in Greek Life, now what’s yours?

This question leads me to my main point; I believe that Greek Life is a fantastic way to help spread acceptance and understanding, however, we as students do not make enough effort to acknowledge this as a potential part of our Greek experience, creating situations that can lead to intolerance (read: University of Oklahoma’s SAE chapter, UA’s Tri Delta, Chi O and AGD, etc). Issues regarding integration are too often swept under the rug and forgotten, which for UMD students is especially sad, considering we attend such a diverse and international institution.

In my time as a brother, I have come to embrace any and all questions about my decision because it gives me an opportunity to talk about

DIVERSITY IN GREEK LIFE - TAKUNDA NDORO

the lack of mixing on our campus and show people that ethnic, racial and cultural connections aren’t the only ways we can form strong, long lasting friendships.

I believe that others should do the same and openly (and honestly) discuss discrimination and integration in Greek Life more often, using all platforms available. This would go a long way in making Greek Life more inclusive and accessible to everyone, not to mention helping keep us off the nightly news.

Regardless of whether someone’s experience is positive or negative, dialogue on the issue is a great way to demystify and improve relations between students.

With regard to UMD’s predominantly white fraternities in particular, a stigma still exists about the acceptance and treatment of minorities in their chapters, largely due to the behavior of other fraternities around the country (Seriously, I dare you to watch that SAE video and tell me it does the majority of fraternities any justice), perpetuating the lack of integration in our own Greek community.

This is not to say that exclusionary and discriminatory practices do not still exist in some corners of Greek Life (we’ve all heard rumors about certain on-campus fraternities purposefully denying people admission for nefarious reasons), but rather, they may play less of a defining role in the composition of a fraternity than the expectation of being discriminated against does.

This implies that because many students interested in joining will not even consider an organization that does not reflect their own ethnic background, race, sexual orientation and/or religious background, we cannot know for sure if the lack of integration in Greek Life is caused exclusively by ethnocentric practices.

So until we put more effort into painting a true picture of Greek Life and moving out of our comfort zones, we may always be stuck with the idea that, even in this day and age, discrimination is still what divides people in Greek Life.

Silence regarding issues of diversity do not do our Greek Life’s potential for breaking down social barriers any justice, meaning that we, as Greek and non-Greek students, need to open up and talk about our experiences with diversity (negative or positive) whenever we can, be it using social media, during rush or in casual conversation. Studies show that a more integrated society is a more accepting and open one, so efforts to reach out to and attract members of different walks of life should also become the norm, as should the idea that ethnic and racial congruence is not the only factor in creating strong friendships.

This article originally appeared on The Odyssey, the ultimate source for millennial content written for students, by students. The content captures real conversations in local communities across the country. n

Takunda Ndoro Maryland ‘16

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BOARD MEMEBER NAMED 2015 OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONAL “ H u f f i n e ’s p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d v o l u n t e e r e f forts focus on equipping children, youth and young adults for brighter futures.”

S T O R Y ARLINGTON, Va.— David M. Huffine (UNC-Greensboro 1984), CFRE, vice president for advancement for St. Joseph’s Villa in Richmond, Va., has been named the 2015 Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) after raising an estimated $750 million in charitable funds over his career.

Huffine will receive this award on March 28, 2015, at AFP’s International Fundraising Conference in Baltimore.

The Outstanding Fundraising Professional award is the highest honor that AFP bestows upon its members, recognizing effective, creative and stimulating leadership as well as the practice and promotion of ethical fundraising.

“What stands out about David Huffine is his understanding of fundraising and how he has applied it to his entire career,” said Andrew Watt, FInstF, president and CEO of AFP. “Yes, he has raised an extraordinary amount of money. But he knows fundraising is a team process that needs to involve everyone at an organization, and he is never afraid to step back and let donors, supporters, and other staff take the spotlight, even as he quietly leads. He is a consummate professional, and it is AFP’s great honor to spotlight him as our 2015 Outstanding Fundraising Professional.”

Huffine joined St. Joseph’s Villa, the longest continuously serving children’s organization in the U.S., in 2008 just as the recession was beginning to decrease overall national giving for the first time in decades.

Despite the downturn, Huffine successfully ensured the Believing is Seeing campaign—the first capital campaign in the organization’s 180year history—exceeded its $10 million goal. Under his leadership St. Joseph’s annual fund continues to break records every year, and he has started the organization’s first planned-giving program as well.

Huffine’s trademark fundraising combines a personal and selfless touch, always putting his work in the background while focusing on the impact

ALUMNI NEWS - HUFFINE HONORED

of donors and volunteers. He also pioneered new philanthropic ground at every organization where he has served by embracing the latest technological advances. Even before his first development position, Huffine had set up phone banks and computers to merge direct mail solicitations, relatively new applications in the 1980s, at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

“My sophomore year at UNC-Greensboro, word went around that they needed student volunteers to call the alumni and ask for money. It had never occurred to me that was something people actually did. As I walked through the Alumni House doors, little did I expect that I was walking into what was to become my life’s vocation,” said Huffine.

“I don’t know if I raised much money that night, but I learned that fundraising is nothing more, deep down, than making a connection with people over a cause you both believe in.”

The award recognizes Huffine’s commitment to building up fundraising as a profession. He has mentored dozens of newer professionals, led training workshops, and has taken an active role in local AFP chapters.

Between the Central Virginia and North Carolina Triangle chapters, he has served as president, treasurer, program chair, National Philanthropy Day chair and mentoring chair. n Huffine strongly believes that fundraisers need to practice what they preach and is committed to supporting numerous nonprofit organizations through gifts, volunteering and board service. Locally, Huffine serves on the advisory board of the University of Richmond’s Institute on Philanthropy and is an active elder at Bon Air Presbyterian Church. On the national level, Huffine serves on the board of directors of his collegiate fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha.

Huffine’s professional and volunteer efforts focus on equipping children, youth and young adults for brighter futures. He says working with amazing teams for inspiring causes is the secret of his success.

Since 1960, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has advanced effective and ethical philanthropy by providing advocacy, research, education, mentoring, collaboration and technology opportunities for the world’s largest network of professional fundraisers.

AFP’s more than 30,000 members raise more than $100 billion annually.

For more information, go to www.afpnet.org.

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David M. Huffine (UNC-Greensboro 1984)

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Chapter News The following are the submissions received for the month of April 2014. To submit chapter news, please email editor@ lambdachi.org. Undergraduate officers can also report updates on their chapter by logging on to Officer Portal and accessing the “Submit Chapter News” form.

B y : Ta d L i c h t e n a u e r ( D e n i s o n )

U P D A T E S

Alberta (Epsilon-Rho) Chapter News

This month, Epsilon Rho completed its food drive for the semester, though collection totals are not yet available.

The chapter celebrates the life of brother Tom Hamilton, who died on March 21. Persons wishing to express their sympathy can visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com/obits/obituary.php?id=539859

Angelo State (Beta-Alpha) Chapter News

The chapter hosted its White Rose Weekend on April 24-25, 2015. The weekend included an Initiation Ritual Exemplification attended by many alumni. The chapter also hosted an alumni versus undergraduate softball game in addition to a White Rose Formal.

Omega

Kent Flanagan (1968) died Feb. 24, 2015. He was one of the original 13 chapter founders. Flanagan was a longtime journalist and open government advocate who spent 21 years as Tennessee’s bureau chief for The Associated Press.

After a stint in Vietnam, he began moving around the country with his journalism career. Flanagan worked for the Fort Lauderdale News and Sun-Sentinel in Florida, and the San Antonio Express-News before he joined the

Photo of the month Submission from Western Michigan University (Lambda Tau zeta) “Flexin’ on Spring Break in Panama City Beach”

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April 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #3 AP in Pennsylvania in 1979. He was an AP administrative Cincinnati (Gamma-Gamma) correspondent in North Dakota and news editor in South Carolina before getting promoted in 1983 to bureau chief in Omega Nashville, where he oversaw news and sales until he retired Harold G. Maier died Aug. 24, 2014. He was a professor in 2004. of law at Vanderbilt University for 41 years. He founded the student-edited Vanderbilt Journal of Transnational Boston (Alpha) Law in 1967 and served as its faculty adviser until his retirement in 2006. He was appointed the David Daniels Chapter News Allen Distinguished Professor of Law in 1988. He was In March the chapter participated in White Ribbon Day a co-author of “Public International Law in a Nutshell� by wearing white vribbons in support of ending violence (with Thomas Buergenthal, West Publishing) and dozens against women. It also raised over $600 at its benefit of journal articles and book chapters. Maier served as a concert for its Relay for Life team in support of cancer consultant to the secretary of the army on the Panama research. Elections were held for a new High Sigma and Canal Treaty negotiations in 1975 and as an expert witness High Pi. for the federal government in civil litigation resulting from the Mariel boatlift of Cuban refugees in 1980. He was counselor on international law to the Office of the Legal Adviser at the U.S. Department of State from 1983-1984.

California State-Fresno (Fresno Colony)

Cornell (Omicron) Chapter News

Chapter News

The colony added 13 associate members, increasing the total membership to 42.

The colony also held its first Initiation Ritual Exemplification.

The colony is preparing to submit its chartering letter to the International Headquarters.

The new exterior walls to enlarge the dining room area have been installed. Other improvements include an updated kitchen area, a new electronic learning center and reading room, new living quarters, updated bathrooms, and a new exercise center. The project is on schedule with chapter members scheduled to move in next fall.

Funding for the project continues to grow to $2.2 million via a combination of alumni pledges, a brother bond loan program and a significant contribution from the undergraduates.

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Delaware (Lambda-Beta) Chapter News

Sixteen new associate members have joined the ranks, which poises the chapter to surpass the 1000th member milestone.

The actives hosted their second annual “Lambda Glow,” which took place at the Blurr nightclub in Philadelphia.

The chapter recently adopted a park from the city of Newark which, once a month, brothers will dedicate their time cleaning and maintaining.

Denver (Alpha-Pi) Alumni News

Peter Sengelman is a member of the Johnson Ritter team at Pinnacle Real Estate Advisors in Denver.

Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa)

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Chapter News

The chapter held officer elections, as well as Big Brother Ceremony for the new associate members. It held a nonalcoholic laser tag social with AOE sorority and a nonalcoholic Iron Chef event with Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority.

The chapter attended a first time home buying education session and a social security education session. On March 31 it marked the anniversary of its rechartering. Inner Circle had three brothers pass through first evolution and four pass through second. The chapter house underwent major home improvements including a new ritualist’s closet.

Alumni News

On April 22, 2015, Chuck Persing was honored as a distinguished advocate during the Support Center for Child Advocates’ annual benefit and auction in Philadelphia.

Over the last three decades the center has served more than 10,000 children and will represent more than 950 children in 2015.

Eastern Kentucky (Phi-Beta) Omega

Brian L. Wiles (1984) died March 10, 2015.

Eureka (Theta-Chi) Alumni News

Bruce Darnall (1966) wrote an article entitled “Truth Hits a Homerun for Marlins Reliever” about Miami Marlins pitcher Steve Cishek. It was published by “Athletes in Action,” the sports ministry for Campus Crusade for Christ.

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Edinboro (Beta-Delta) Chapter News

Chapter brothers volunteered at the local food bank helping to unload delivery trucks.

pies to the face. In the attached picture are: brothers Ryan Nesheim, Andrew Watkeys, and Jonathan Mueller, along with Associate Member Connor Vondette.

Georgetown (Kappa-Omega)

Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) Chapter News

The chapter recruited three associate members during spring recruitment week and held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for two new members in February. Tyler Brodeur, Damon Holst, Fernando Gomez, and Zach Bishop were all nominated for the Founders Award at Elmhurst College. Mike Petillo and Daniel Wiggin performed at the House of Blues in Chicago.

Chapter News

Elon (Delta-Pi) Chapter News

The chapter recently adopted a highway in memory of Brother Victor Wisniewski.

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 16 new members.

Chapter President Mac McCann gave the brothers a presentation on the revamped executive committee, which will now have a much larger impact on the chapter’s affairs.

On March 7, 2015, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 17 associate members.

On Feb. 28, 2015, Isaac Meisner, Matt Loxley, and Tyler Sexton attended the Bluegrass Conclave in Louisville.

On Feb. 26, 2015, chapter members volunteered at the Gathering Place, a local homeless shelter, shoveling snow and stuffing care bags.

Georgia Tech (Beta-Kappa) Ferris State (Iota-Psi) Chapter News

Ferris State University held its annual event, Relay For Life, which raises money for cancer research and is held at Wink Arena. The event started at 6 p.m. and continued until 6 a.m. The brothers and associate members raised money by manning shifts at the table and taking whipped cream

Chapter News

Beta Kappa raised over $12,000 for childhood cancer research through the Saint Baldrick’s foundation. The chapter also continued the tradition of hosting the TUG Greek Week event on campus, placing third in the event, and finishing in the top five for Greek Week overall.

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Grand Valley State (Delta-Theta) Omega

Brian H. Stevenson (1994) died Feb. 24, 2015. He was a founding father of the chapter, and was a long- time employee of Grand Valley Surgical Center and Butterworth Hospital. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Pl. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 and Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 545 7th Street, Freeland, MI 48623.

High Point (Iota-Phi) Alumni News

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Illinois (Chi) Chapter News

Chapter members participated in Walk as One campaign, going door-to-door on campus to help educate students on alcohol safety.

Indiana (Alpha-Omicron) Chapter News

On Feb. 28, 2015, chapter members participated in Dropping the Puck on Cancer. This event is a philanthropic hockey game organized by a nonprofit with proceeds benefiting the American Brain Tumor Association. Dropping the Puck was started in 2011 between Beta Theta Pi and Sigma Chi, but has grown to include eight fraternities. This year, Beta Theta Pi played Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma played Delta Tau Delta, Phi Delta Theta played Theta Chi, and Lambda Chi played Delta Upsilon. The Lambda Chi game, which they won 4-0, included the sale of more than 400 tickets and a large amount of apparel.

Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon) Omega M. Richard Beach (1964) died March 21, 2015.

Alumni brothers Daniel Miller and John Buday reunited after nearly 17 years, spending a weekend at Buday’s house in Brimfield, Massachusetts. The reunion provided an opportunity to share photos from college and today.

Iowa (Iota-Chi) Chapter News

On March 1, 2015, the chapter held an Associate Member Ceremony for four associate members.

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HELPED TO PROVIDE THE EQUIVALENT OF 15,222 MEALS

Iowa State (Alpha-Tau) Chapter News

On March 5 the chapter hosted 32 sorority women from Kappa Alpha Theta at a formal dinner. Saturday, March 7, the chapter hosted a viewing party of the basketball team where three potential members got to meet many of the brothers. On March 8, our intramural team played its most impressive game to date with a victory in its first playoff game this season with a score of 9 – 3. On March 11, an Associate Member Ceremony was held for Ryan Luckinbill.

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humorous novels “Wormwood High Crimes and a Bunch of Misdemeanors” and “Wormwood Beyond Dead.” When asked about the most important artistic influences on his life, he is quick to reply, “The Marx Brothers, Woody Allen in his early years, Will Ferrell, Dave Barry, and Carl Hiaasen. Oh yeah, and Shakespeare, Tolstoy, and Thomas Wolfe too.”

Minnesota State (Lambda-Delta)

Louisiana-Lafayette (Iota-Omega) Chapter News

The chapter was one of only three fraternities to be awarded a five-star rating by the university, based on different categories, including philanthropic efforts, scholastic achievements, membership education, and campus involvement. The chapter was able to raise food, water and monetary donations during Watermelon Bust to help Second Harvest Food Bank. Donations to this organization helped to provide the equivalent of 15,222 meals. The brothers were recognized by the Second Harvest Food Bank in their annual report.

Chapter News

Memphis (Zeta-Theta) Omega

Roy C. Pace (1959) died Jan. 12, 2015.

Miami-OH (Zeta-Upsilon) Alumni News

Robert Van Kirk (1970) is a retired investment industry executive who lives in Ohio. He is the author of the

March 1, 2015, during Respect Week the entire chapter went to Fort Snelling and paid respect to all of the brave men and women who fought to protect this great country we live in today. Earlier, on Feb. 27, the chapter volunteered to help set up and run the Candlelight Vigil in Mankato. The purpose of the vigil is to help and give support to the people in the community that are current or past victims of domestic violence.

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LAMBDA CHI ALPHA OPPOSES INADIANA’S RELIGOUS FREEDOM RESTORATION ACT (RFRA) INDIANAPOLIS — On Thursday, March 26 Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed into law the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).

This controversial piece of legislation has the potential to create social implications such as the right for businesses to discriminate against members of the LGBT community.

As an organization that represents over 11,000 undergraduates and approximately 150,000 living alumni and is headquartered in Indiana, Lambda Chi Alpha opposes such legislation. Lambda Chi Alpha has a long history of adopting progressive policies and being at the forefront of positive societal change. CEO Bill Farkas and Board Chairman Fletcher McElreath have joined several local organizations in drafting letters to Gov. Pence and other state representatives asking them to reconsider the bill.

As a premiere, values-based institution, Lambda Chi Alpha relies on recruiting diverse men and women from all across North America to serve on Lambda Chi Alpha’s Professional Staff. Legislation such as the RFRA could hinder Lambda Chi Alpha’s efforts at recruiting the best individuals as the organization continues to grow. In addition, Lambda Chi Alpha frequently hosts conferences at its headquarters in Indianapolis, and throughout the state, something that may be more difficult to achieve if guests are reluctant to travel to Indiana.

“Our fraternity is an inclusive organization for all men. We believe that the recent actions by Indiana’s top lawmakers do not coincide with the values that our fraternity practices,” Farkas said.

Continued on page 25

Montevallo (Sigma-Epsilon)

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North Carolina-Charlotte (Beta-Upsilon) Chapter News

The chapter assisted at the local office of Habitat for humanity by helping to break down tables and put away things after the event was over. Another successful blood drive was also held this month.

North Carolina-Greensboro (Phi-Theta) Chapter News

The chapter held a successful philanthropic event on March 26, 2015, raising a substantial quantity of canned goods despite almost being rained out.

New Hampshire (Alpha-Xi) Chapter News

The chapter has been busy planning a gameshow philanthropy to benefit the American Heart Association.

The chapter is extremely excited for the upcoming Inner Circle implementation retreat on April 18. Brothers helped clean up the trash revealed as the snow melts from the UNH campus.

Omega

George C. “Digger” Nelson (1991) died Feb. 23, 2015. He was 46 years old and had fought very bravely the last few years against multiple sclerosis. He was employed by Radio Shack and then the Lookout Mountain Police Department.

North Carolina State (Gamma-Upsilon) Chapter News

Chapter members volunteered at the Raleigh Food Bank.

North Dakota (Epsilon-Zeta) Chapter News

New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha)

Chapter members played in a boot hockey tournament as part of a brotherhood event.

Chapter News

Alumnus Robert Gettys (1975) generously donated a set of paintings showing the evolution of our coat of arms.

On March 9-12 the chapter participated in Greek Week.

It received awards for Outstanding Academic Chapter Achievement and Chapter Adviser Marco Perez won Adviser of the Year. Past President Kolby Heid won Outstanding Chapter President of the year.

Alumni News

Alumni brothers and undergraduates attended an alumni hockey weekend to watch a varsity hockey away-game at the chapter house.

Alumni brothers attended the annual Minneapolis-based NCHC Hockey Tournament to cheer on the varsity hockey team.

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Ohio (Alpha-Omega) Omega

Eugene F. Dunham (1964) died Feb. 14, 2015. He earned an MBA from the University of Michigan and a doctorate from Michigan State University. He taught at Virginia Commonwealth University, followed by the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida. With his company, Whitestone, he was a consultant in finance and real estate. Dunham was an Order of Merit recipient, House Corporation president and Educational Foundation Board member.

Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho) Chapter News

The chapter has 52 newly-initiated members, for a total of 220 chapter members.

This past fall the chapter’s freshmen ranked third in newmember GPAs with a 3.13. The chapter placed third overall out of 19 fraternities with a cumulative GPA of 3.075.

The chapter won homecoming chairman for the second year in a row.

Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) Chapter News

To support the It’s On Us campaign to fight sexual assault, the chapter created a promotional video demonstrating its support. Ben Brown wrote the script and helped produce the technical editing.

Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi) Chapter News

The chapter won the Alpha Sigma Alpha Pageant charity event for the second consecutive year.

Tadd Lucian was nominated as Senior of the Year.

Evan Greenwall was honored by Alpha Sigma Alpha as Man of the Year.

The chapter held a 50th anniversary celebration with four of the original founders in attendance.

Alumni News

Benjamin Burns was named an outstanding alumnus of the university.

Mark Ibenthal is the new president of the Alumni Advisory Board and Association of Alumni.

Richmond (Alpha-Chi) Chapter News

Early in March a Mentoring Academy was held on the University of Richmond campus with more that 20 mentors and proteges from both University of Richmond and VCU. The event was a great success and created new relationships between the juniors and seniors who connected with a group of experienced alumni.

Rollins (Theta-Gamma) Chapter News

The chapter raised more than $4,000 for the St. Baldricks Foundation, which funds the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers.

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LAMBDA CHI ALPHA OPPOSES INADIANA’S RELIGOUS FREEDOM RESTORATION ACT (RFRA) CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Lambda Chi Alpha will continue to facilitate a safe, open and positive environment for each of its members to learn and grow into better men. Furthermore the fraternity, supports every member – no matter his background, creed, race or sexual preference.

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Sewanee (Iota-Nu)

Chapter News

Two chapter brothers spent their spring break in New Orleans volunteering at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana.

Shippensburg Colony

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having the highest cumulative GPA of fraternities. The colony sponsored a VIP Soccer Program in which fifty-cent donations were asked of participants that allowed them to sign a soccer ball. The signed soccer balls, combined with additional balls from soccer teams on campus, were then donated. The resulting $114 raised helps kids with disabilities to pay for their bills and insurance in order to play soccer.

Simpson (Theta-Lambda) Chapter News

The chapter brothers raised over 6,300 pounds of food in a weekend food drive to benefit Feeding America, and will hold another food drive in April, hoping to raise a total of 15,000 pounds.

South Carolina (Epsilon-Psi) Alumni News

Bill Herbkersman (1982) was re-elected to his 6th term to the South Carolina House of Representatives. He represents the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and Jasper county area and is chairman of the Government and Executive Sub-Committee on the Ways and Means Committee as well as a member of the Rules Committee.

South Dakota (Alpha-Gamma) Chapter News

Chapter News

The colony participated in philanthropic, recruitment, and Greek Week events and was recognized for having the highest GPA of all fraternities last semester and also for

During the month of March, Alpha-Gamma Zeta participated in Lambda Chi Alpha’s March Madness Challenge against eight other chapters across the nation.

Alumni Brothers Mike Roach and Brad Peterson began renovation of the Chapter’s basement lounge, which is expected to be completed in May. Brothers Tyler Tordsen

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and James Gulbranson concluded their terms as SGA President and SGA Senator, respectively. Brother Nick Bratvold was sworn in as an at-large senator to the Student Government Association. Brother Tyler Tordsen received an offer - which he accepted - to work as the special assistant to new South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds beginning in May. Lambda Chi Alpha was also recognized by the South Dakota Board of Regents with the Organizational Leadership Award.

Southern Methodist (Gamma-Sigma) Omega

Thomas J. Warren Sr. (1942) died March 20, 2015. A former chapter president, he was president of Powell Sales Co., a distributor of S&H Green Stamps. He served as vice president of Powell Oil Corp., and as a jobber for Phillips Petroleum Co. He was an officer in the Texas Oil Jobbers Association and rounded out his business career as president of Tom Warren Realtors from 1975 to 1982, when he retired.

Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi) Chapter News

The chapter earned the highest GPA of all fraternities on campus and the third highest of all Greek organizations for the fall 2014 semester.

The chapter added five associate members during spring recruitment.

On Feb. 26, 2015, the chapter held its second annual JockStrong dodgeball tournament. All money raised benefited The St. Baldricks Foundation, which funds the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers . This tournament is in honor of deceased brother Scott

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Wood, who died of cancer in 2012.

Tennessee (Epsilon-Omicron) Chapter News

The chapter earned first place in Zeta Tau Alpha’s 3-Day for ZTA Breast Cancer Awareness philanthropy event.

The event included talent competitions and a flag football tournament.

The chapter won the intramural basketball competition.

Team members in the photo are (left to right) Jack Novotny, Alex Tombul, Matthew Pallme, Ryan Tombul, Matt O’Neil, Andrew Suzore, Anthony Denegri, Heath Belcher (Front) Tim Sisneros

Tennessee-Chattanooga (Zeta-Phi) Chapter News

The chapter hosted a Chattanooga community-wide food drive beginning in February. Brothers prepared and dropped off brown-bags at nearly 1500 homes across the city of Chattanooga and partnered with Chi Omega (UTC) to pick up the bags, collecting 1,788 pounds of food from 275 households. All donations went to the Chattanooga Area Food Bank. The chapter placed 3rd place in this year’s Greek Show. A total of $12,561 was raised by the community through this event and the proceeds will benefit Second Life of Chattanooga. On March 27, the brothers participated in a neighborhood cleanup to better connect the chapter with the surrounding Fortwood community.

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Union (Lambda-Zeta) Chapter News

The chapter made it to the semi finals of the intramural basketball championship, losing in the final seconds. The theme was “America.” The brothers and associates, dressed in patriotic colors, and came out to cheer the players on. The chapter hosted a Parent/Alumni banquet that was attended by around two hundred people. During the banquet they also installed the new class of officers, which are pictured below.

Wabash (Alpha-Kappa) Alumni News

In May, Rob Shook (1983) will begin his two-year term as vice president/president-elect of the National Association of Wabash Men. When he becomes president for two years in 2017, he will be the third Lambda Chi of the four most recent alumni board presidents, following alumni brothers Greg Castanias and Greg Estell. Shook also serves as the co-chair of the 1809 Alumni Board at Miami University of Ohio and on the advisory board of the University of Texas’ Division of Diversity and Community Engagement.

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau) Chapter News

On March 18, 2015, the chapter hosted its annual volleyball philanthropy event benefitting the Brian Piccolo Research Fund. Partnered with Delta Zeta sorority, the chapter raised approximately $4,500, which is by far the highest grossing philanthropic event.

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Washington (Alpha-Psi) Chapter News

At the Northwest Conclave, the chapter won awards for Most Participants Signed Up the Fastest, and Highest House GPA.

Western (Delta-Eta) Chapter News

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for seven associate members. The same weekend, three brothers traveled from The University of Western Ontario to Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio to attend the Great Lakes Conclave. The chapter is anticipating the return of brothers Seth Kamminga, Kevin Pan, and Kishwar Hashemee so that they may share their experiences and what they have learned from the representatives of various other chapters.

Chapter President Alexander Kholmov was elected vice president and Vice President Ryan Falcone was elected communications executive for Western’s Interfraternity Council.

Western Carolina (Beta-Zeta) Alumni News

Educational Foundation Board Member Kevin Vasquez (1978) was inducted as an honorary member of Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society for collegiate schools of business, in recognition of his professional achievement. Western Carolina University has bestowed this honor to only 10 people over the last 125 years. Vasquez is the chairman of the board of Henry Schein Animal Health.

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Omega

Larry Huffman (1971) died March 4, 2015. He was retired from Sears, and a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

Western Michigan (Lambda-Tau) Chapter News

The chapter sent three delegates to the Great Lakes Conclave at Baldwin Wallace University: Simon Sprague, Jack Friesl and Daniel Foster. They plan to incorporate new ideas into their fraternity education and risk management plans, including new ways to improve the Big Brother/Little Brother experience and sober monitor duties. “I think that the experience was extremely beneficial, and definitely gives you a rush of Lambda pride and patriotism,” said Simon Sprague about the experience overall.

Wichita State (Wichita State Colony) Chapter News

Chapter Advisor Royce Smith was named a 2015 Fulbright Scholar.

Wisconsin - Whitewater (Lambda-Iota) Chapter News

The chapter has four new associate members, bringing the total number of brothers to twelve. Attached are two pictures that were taken on bid night with new associate members Mike O’Connel and Nick Herzberg. The chapter recently gathered approximately 800 pounds of food for the Whitewater Food Pantry, and will host their annual Teeter-Totter-A-Thon in the week of April 6-10. Overall, as a chapter we are doing very well in maintaining our chapter, and are eager to find as many opportunities as possible to grow on our campus. n

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FEATURE - Article Title

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