Cross & Crescent
September 2014 . ISSUE 06
FROM THE EDITOR Happy post-Labor Day greetings to all of our brothers and friends. We hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable summer. It was a very busy and productive summer at the International Headquarters. We hosted more than 700 brothers at the 55th General Assembly and Stead Leadership Seminar at the end of July at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. We also moved the International Headquarters from 8741 Founders Road in Indianapolis to 11711 N. Pennsylvania Street in Carmel, Indiana. Our new space is much bigger and provides classroom space so we can properly host events like chapter retreats, alumni training, and events such as Board meetings. In this issue, we have a wide variety of articles and information to share with you. In addition to all the details about General Assembly, you may read about our new headquarters and our new Officer Academy educational system. Board of Councilor Bob Koch (California-Berkeley) also eulogizes the sad and sudden death of brother and Order of Merit recipient John Gezelius (California-Berkeley).
Tad Lichtenauer Director of Communications/IT (317) 803-7322
We wish all of our chapters a safe, productive, and enjoyable fall semester and hope you enjoy reading this latest issue. As always, if you have any suggestions, story ideas, or general comments about the magazine, please send an email to me at tlichtenauer@lambdachi.org. In ZAX & friendship, Tad Lichtenauer
tlichtenauer@lambdachi.org
Editor, Cross & Crescent Magazine.
Cross & Crescent
Header
YOUR ONLINE SOURCE FOR ALL LAMBDA CHI ALPHA NEWS SEPT. 2014 ISSUE 06
Features 7 Departments Chapter News
1
Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death.
15
20
NOTABLE SPEAKERS FROM SUMMER CONFERENCE Highlights included remarks from Pete Smithhisler, Thomas Landzert, and Michael Armstrong, and an award and inspiring tribute video for outgoing Board Chairman Drew Hunter. By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)
Fraternity News
55th General Assembly & Leadership Seminar Awards
Fraternity News
Major Legislative Changes in 2014
24
Fraternity News
New Chapter Officer Training System
CREDITS Publisher: Bill Farkas anaging Editor: Tad Lichtenauer M Assistant Editor: Andrew Talevich Layout & Design: Ethan Gassner Photographer: Walt Moser Research: Jon Williamson Editors: Jono Hren Bob McLaughlin
9 AN INVESTMENT FOR THE FUTURE During the Alumni Recognition Luncheon, the Educational Foundation celebrated the completion of the $20 million Investing in Future Leaders Campaign. By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)
11 A PLACE TO CALL HOME In early August, the Professional Staff moved into a new headquarters building at 11711 North Pennsylvania Street in Carmel, Indiana. By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)
14
CONTRIBUTIONS
REMEMBERING A TRUE BROTHER
Content for consideration should be submitted by the 25th of the month (except Aug/Jan)
John Gezelius loved two groups: the University of California at Berkeley from which he graduated in 1978 and Lambda Chi Alpha where he became a brother in 1976.
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity 8741 Founders Rd Indianapolis, IN 46268-1338 (317) 872-8000 editor@lambdachi.org www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
By Bob Koch (Cal-Berkeley)
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death
Akron (Gamma-Alpha)
Ball State (Iota-Alpha)
John C. Berlin (1971) is the mayor of Salem, Ohio. He took office on January 1, 2012. A retired businessman, he has resided in Salem for more than 30 years. In 2010 he was appointed to an unexpired councilman-at-large seat on Salem City Council and in November of 2011 was elected to a four year term as mayor of the City of Salem.
Dr. Keith P. Henschen (1965), professor at the University of Utah, received the Distinguished Professional Practice Award from the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. Dr. Patrick J. Mark (1970) was promoted to superintendent/district ombudsman for the Greenville County school District in Greenville, South Carolina.
Charles E. Booth (1944) died August 1, 2013. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Akron in 1981. A U.S. Army veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict, he served in Europe and in the occupation forces in Japan during World War II. He started his career as a bank teller for the Bank of Akron, working there through many mergers and purchases. Eventually he became president of BancOhio and retired in 1987 as vice president and head of corporate banking for National City Bank.
Bob M. Mantock (1953) died March 25, 2013. Nicholas A. Drayer (1964) died February 10, 2014.
California-Los Angeles (Epsilon-Sigma) Cobi Jones, an iconic U.S. soccer player, has joined GameOn Inc., a sports application company, as an advisor. GameOn is a social networking-enabled mobile application that allows friends to meaningfully connect while enjoying their favorite live events.
Arkansas State (Iota-Theta) Alumni members purchased a new floor for the chapter meeting room.
Cincinnati (Gamma-Gamma)
Carter Lee attended the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar and served on the International Ritual Team. The chapter added 24 associate members during formal recruitment. Henry C. Gschwend Sr. (1959) died July 28, 2014. A residential real estate developer, he was also a U.S. Army veteran. Gschwend was past chairman of the Arkansas State Board of Higher Education where he served a 10year term, serving under both Gov. Dale Bumpers and Gov. Bill Clinton.
The chapter added eight associate members during fall recruitment.
Bill G. Warner (1963) died July 15, 2014. He was a longtime employee of Arkansas Power and Light Co. (Entergy) and real estate broker in Arkadelphia, Akansas.
The chapter hung Lambda Chi Alpha letters on its new chapter house, which was acquired this August and is now home to 15 proud brothers.
Robert Doyle “Bo� DeSpain Jr. died June 11, 2014. He worked as a registered nurse at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould, Arkansas, for the past seven years.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
Cornell (Omicron) Alumni bothers gathered last June for a reunion and to celebrate the closing of the chapter house for a major
1
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death
Eureka (Theta-Chi) On October 4, 2014, the chapter will host a chapter open house during homecoming to show off recent renovations. Alumnus Robbie Johnson (1991) helped champion many of the improvements.
renovation over the next year, with a groundbreaking ceremony on the front lawn of Edgemoor. Pictured from left to right are: Jason Cho (1998), John Steed (1969), Wayne Mezitt (1964), undergraduate Chris Fateh, Steve Ashley (1962) and Elliot Sloane (1974). Alumni have currently pledged more than $1.9 million as the campaign drive continues through the fall to reach the $2.2 million funding goal.
Bruce Darnall (1966) and Mark Darnall (2009) have written several articles for Athletes in Action, the sports ministry for Campus Crusade for Christ. They include: “Yankee First Baseman Talks About Overcoming Crises of Faith” about New York Yankees first baseman, Mark Teixeira; two articles on Seattle Mariner teammates, Corey Hart and Dustin Ackley; and, “Brewers Scooter Gennett Spurred on by Renewed Faith” about Brewers second baseman, Scooter Gennett.
Florida International (Pi-Phi) On May 19, 2014, Nathaniel Mullins and his band W.E.R.M. (When Everything Really Matters) finished recording their debut album. They just finished touring with 30 Seconds to Mars and are playing festivals with Avenged Sevenfold, Gun n Roses, Chevelle and many others.
Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa) Undergraduate and alumni brothers played a friendly softball game against each other; the undergraduates won 14-13.
lawn.
Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi) Chapter members staffed their weekly Water Corner event, which included passing out free water bottles to the student population.
Numerous improvements have been and are being made to the chapter house, including a new
The chapter has a new website.
Florida Tech (Beta-Nu)
Mark Stitz received the Order of Merit at the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.
The chapter added 12 associate members during fall recruitment.
Edinboro (Beta-Delta) Chapter members hosted a variety of recruitment events, ranging from cookouts to sporting events.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
Franklin (Kappa-Gamma) Robert S. Coble (1957) died January 14, 2014. He earned a master’s degree from Indiana University and taught at
2
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death Franklin Community High School before moving on to teach math and computer science at Warren Central High School. He served as a swim coach at the junior high school and helped with the Warren Central High School athletic programs. He also was an official scorer for the IHSAA state swimming championships. Raymond F. “Ray” Spencer (1957) died November 6, 2013. He held a master’s degree in special education and another in administration, both from Indiana University. He taught fourth grade, fifth grade, and special education in Franklin. He then worked at Oaktown Elementary School as a principal for one year before joining LintonStockton Elementary School in 1970, serving as principal until his retirement in 1991. He worked at Harrah Realty in Linton following his retirement. He was the recipient of a Franklin College Alumni Citation for Life Achievement in 2005. He was named Linton Citizen of the Year in 2006.
Indiana (Alpha-Omicron) Richard J. Robinson died May 9, 2014. He served in the U.S. Navy prior to beginning college. Robinson earned an MBA at Indiana University and his doctorate from the University of Washington. Teaching business students at Portland State University became his lifelong career.
Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon) John F. “Jack” Wellman (1963) died July 9, 2014. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and received an honorable discharge in 1959. He enrolled at Indiana State University and was president of his senior class. He earned a master’s degree in 1964 and taught as an instructor at Southeastern Louisiana in Hammond, Louisiana, from 1964-1967. In 1967, he received a fellowship to pursue his doctorate at the University of Michigan. In August of 1969, Wellman left Michigan to join the faculty at Northern Illinois University in the Department of Speech Communications. He would finish his doctorate in 1973, earning Phi Beta Kappa honors. He would teach at Northern Illinois from 1969-1982 and again from 19841987, winning two Excellence in Teaching Awards. He also partnered with Ken Van Horn to form Wellman – Van Horn Productions, an independent film-making company that made many educational, promotional, industrial, and training films. He continued these joint ventures with his own firm, Air Media. In 1987, he returned to Southeastern Louisiana University, this time as a professor. At Southeastern, Wellman served as president of the Faculty Senate and earned the rank of full professor before his retirement in 1999.
Georgia (Nu) On April 24-25, 2015, the chapter will host a 100th anniversary celebration. Saturday lunch will be at the chapter house and the Saturday night banquet will be held at the Classic Center. Hotel reservations may be made at the Holiday Inn.
Georgetown (Kappa-Omega) Hunter Conner, Daniel Anderson, Jon Carlisle, and Matthew Lillard attended the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. The chapter won awards for academic achievement, campus involvement, and recruitment.
Iowa State (Alpha-Tau) Matthew Hefti, Charles Hoffman, and Nicholas Castellanos attended the 55th General Assembly and Stead Leadership Seminar at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. During the conference the chapter won the Best Website Award.
SGA President Turner Altman gave an address at freshman orientation.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
3
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death Lambda Chi Alpha letters were installed on the outside of the chapter house. Michael Ball (2014) headed the fabrication and installation of the steel letters.
a member of the American Dental Association and the West Virginia Dental Society with a 25-year Certificate of Distinction.
Kansas State (Gamma-Xi) Brandon Gillet (1998) was recently diagnosed with cancer.
Methodist (Sigma-Theta) The chapter held a joint officer retreat with the DeltaSigma chapter from the University of North CarolinaWilmington.
Eric Rice and other alumni brothers have established a foundation to assist him. This included hosting a golf tournament, Birdies for Brandon, on August 2, 2014. Gillet and his wife have two young children.
Kettering (Lambda-Epsilon B)
The chapter added 14 associate members during formal recruitment.
Miami-OH (Zeta-Upsilon) Howard L. Bricker (1952) died November 15, 2013. A onetime postmaster of Galena, Ohio, he then moved to teaching and coaching, one year at Rockford High School in Mercer County, then 23 years at the Big Walnut school system, retiring in 1987. He was inducted into the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the Big Walnut Wall of Fame. A U.S. Army veteran, Bricker served from November 1944 to August 1946 rising to the rank of sergeant of the 32nd Infantry division.
Lambda Chi Alpha’s Educational Foundation Board Chairman Karl Krapek has been selected by the NorthAmerican Interfraternity Conference Foundation as this year’s recipient of the Outstanding Foundation Volunteer Award. Krapek demonstrated exceptional leadership skills as campaign chairman for Lambda Chi Alpha’s Investing in Future Leaders Campaign. Investing in Future Leaders has been a rousing success and has exceeded the $20 million campaign goal. This campaign is more than three times larger than any prior campaign of the Fraternity or Foundation. Krapek becomes only the third Lambda Chi Alpha brother to receive such recognition.
Marshall (Zeta-Zeta) Dr. Joseph E. Billups died August 1, 2014. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a self-employed dentist in Kenova, West Virginia, for 40 years. Professionally he was www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
4
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death
Michigan State (Gamma-Omicron)
Ohio State (Gamma-Tau)
The chapter moved into a new chapter house.
Over the summer Brother Aaron Ferlotti worked very closely with our realty company to begin a series of home improvement projects, the first of which was getting a new hardwood floor installed downstairs.
Millersville (Delta-Tau)
The chapter boasts the second-highest fraternity GPA on campus.
Mark Perks (1980) died July 16, 2014. An Order of Merit recipient, he served as chapter advisor, Alumni Advisory Board president, and House Corporation Board member
Mississippi State (Epsilon-Chi) Clay White (1985) earned his law degree from Charlotte School of Law.
Oklahoma State (Alpha-Eta) Tucker Link was profiled as part of the university’s Building Business Success for 100 Years campaign. Link is chairman and founder of Knightsbridge Investments, based in Bermuda, and also with offices in Dubai, UAE. Knightsbridge has expanded over the years into a number of industries including chemicals, oil exploration/ production, renewable energy, real estate, and ranching. Link also serves as the chairman of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents.
Missouri (Gamma-Kappa) On April 11, 2014, two alumni brothers were elected into the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame: former U.S. President Harry S. Truman and former U.S. Senator John C. “Jack” Danforth, who is currently a partner in the law firm of Bryan Cave.
North Carolina-Wilmington (Delta-Sigma)
Oregon (Zeta-Omicron)
The chapter held a joint officers’ retreat with the brothers from Sigma-Theta at Methodist University.
Gordon Hargrove (1961) is the executive director of Friendly House in Worcester, Massachusetts. This is the Feeding America affiliate our Pi-Zeta brothers from Worcester Polytechnic work with as their food pantry. The local newspaper profiled Hargrove for his 50 years of service with the Friendly House.
North Dakota (Epsilon-Zeta) Undergraduate brothers Dan Frank and Shane Schuster attended the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix with alumni brothers Kevin Till, Ron Sitzer, Dave Hillesland, and John Gezelius.
Pennsylvania (Epsilon) The chapter is ranked fifth on campus in fraternity GPA. Lewis Ellis and Chenyang Lei completed the KCPB Fellows program, a highly-competitive engineering and design program. Justin Kim graduated from Flatiron School, an intense 12-week web development education program.
John Mitzel and Shane Schuster attended the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) Conference in Indianapolis.
Sujay Dewan attend the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix
Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi)
Alumni brothers Jeff Lacko, Austin Schumacher and Chase Madsen carried the Lambda Chi Alpha flag during a recent hike. www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
Sponsored by alumnus brother Steve Pierce and his wife, Sue, the 17th annual Pierce Stock cookout was held.
5
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death In attendance were many brothers, friends, and family members. Chapter brothers attended a university-sponsored weekend seminar at the University of Arkansas. Training included instruction on how to run a good chapter, antihazing measures, co-existing with sororities, interaction with fellow Greeks, and the importance of academics
Polytechnic (Theta-Upsilon) Teri and Roger Grice (1964) were among those recognized at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York for celebrating 50 years of marriage. They were accompanied to the celebration by their children and grandchildren.
Vincennes (Sigma-Alpha) Eric Godfrey (1990) was promoted dean of students at St. Cloud High School in Florida. He started as a science teacher in 2008 and was moved to the testing coordinator position last year. He also owns and operates his company DeadBall Entertainment, specializing in inflatable football tunnels and CO2 Fog special effects.
Richmond (Alpha-Chi) Five chapter brothers were selected to be orientation advisors, helping freshmen with orientation
Shepherd (Phi-Iota)
Virginia Commonwealth (Virginia Commonwealth Colony)
Chapter brothers helped with freshmen move-in, orientation, and related community service.
Shippensburg (Shippensburg Colony)
Chapter brothers volunteered at Comfort Zone Camp, a camp where grieving children are paired with a buddy to help cope with their daily lives.
Anthony “Tony” J. Minori (1987) died August 21, 2014. He worked for Wake Med Health and Hospitals for 18 years. He was very active in many volunteer organizations including: Pop Warner Little Scholars Football and Spirit, Girl Scouts, Knights of Columbus, and the Raleigh Moose Lodge #1318.
The colony will host its chartering banquet on October 18, 2014.
Washington (Alpha-Psi)
Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi)
Auren “Ed” Stanford (1964) died July 3, 2014. He was always a vital member of the chapter in his undergraduate years and remained involved as an alumnus brother. He will be remembered for co-hosting wine tastings in the 1970s and 1980s. He never missed a Founders Day until last year, due to his illness. His brother, Ken, and his son, Steve, are also brothers.
Tonya Bland died June 28, 2014. She was a custodian at Southeast Missouri State University and the chapter’s housemother.
Troy (Sigma-Tau) On Aug. 23, 2014, chapter brothers volunteered at the Pioneer Museum in Troy, Ala. They helped with multiple landscaping tasks including removing fallen trees, mowing, weed-eating, and removing parts of a barn that burned. www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
6
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FEATURE
Notable speakers from summer conference Remarks from Pete Smithhisler, Thomas Landzert and Michael Armstrong, as well as an award and inspiring tribute video for outgoing Board Chairman Drew Hunter. By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison))
During the 55th General Assembly & Stead Leadership Seminar there were many motivational speakers and recognitions. The following highlight four of those individuals. Their complete speeches and tribute video to our former Board Chairman Drew Hunter can be accessed on Lambda Chi’s YouTube channel.
Exemplification. His remarks focused on the importance of living the ritual. Smithhisler has been working with college students for more than 25 years in a variety of professional roles. As NIC’s president and CEO, Smithhisler represents and advocates for the needs of member fraternities through the enrichment of the fraternity experience, advances collaboration and growth among the fraternity community, and coordinates daily interactions with any of the NIC’s 75 member organizations, five million alumni, or 800 campuses.
Pete Smithhisler, President & CEO, NIC Pete Smithhisler (Western Illinois), the president and CEO of the North-American Interfraternity Conference, gave an inspiring keynote address prior to the Initiation Ritual www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
7
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
Smithhisler is one of the nation’s foremost advocates for the fraternal movement due to his extensive work with students, higher education partners, and governmental agencies.
the retired Chairman of the Board of Trustees, John Hopkins Medicine, Health System Corporation and Hospital, retired Chairman and Director Emeritus of Comcast Corporation and the former Chairman and CEO of AT&T and Hughes Electronics. He has also served at the chairman of the Board of IBM World Trade Corp.
After his remarks, Smithhisler was presented with the The George W. Spasyk Order of Interfraternity Service by the former CEO and President of the NIC, Jon Williamson (Maryland). The Order of Interfraternity Service was created in 1958 to recognize those men and women who have contributed outstanding service in the betterment of all college fraternal organizations. In 2002, this exceptional award was renamed “The George W. Spasyk Order of Interfraternity Service”, to honor and recognize Executive Vice President Emeritus George Spasyk for his 40 years of service and commitment to Lambda Chi Alpha and the interfraternity world.
He gave an inspiring address about his life and pursuit of having the courage to take risk and being tough enough to never give up. Armstrong is also philanthropically active in American higher education, medical research, community needs, disadvantaged kids and infrastructure projects in Guatemala. Armstrong was introduced by Jerre Stead, former chairman of the Educational Foundation of Lambda Chi Alpha. He and his wife, Mary Joy, are the namesake sponsors of Lambda Chi’s summer leadership seminars. Stead has led seven public companies over the last 33 years. His most recent professional role was executive chairman at IHS Inc.
Thomas Landzert, 2014 Duke Flad Recipient The 2014 recipient of the Cyril F. “Duke” Flad Award was Thomas Landzert from Epsilon-Psi chapter at the University of South Carolina. Brother Landzert received this award based upon the leadership he has displayed at his chapter, on his campus, and throughout his community.
Drew Hunter, Former Fraternity Board Chairman
At Epsilon-Psi, Landzert served two years as the chapter president, winning the campus Outstanding Chapter President Award. When Landzert became chapter president, their roster had dropped to 14 men following a membership review. Under Landzert’s leadership, the chapter’s membership increased to more than 60 men with a cumulative 3.25 GPA.
At the final banquet, the brothers and guests paid tribute to outgoing Fraternity Board Chairman James A. “Drew” Hunter. He has served on the Board of Directors since 2004 and was elected as chairman at the 53rd General Assembly iin July 2010. Prior to that he served as vice chairman from 2008-2010 having chaired the Chapter and Brotherhood Development Committee and on the Executive Committee.
In recommending brother Landzert for the award, House Corporation President and Alumni Advisor Jim Tothill said: “Brother Landzert’s leadership using Lambda Chi Alpha ideals and standards are evident as Epsilon-Psi Zeta has moved from its darkest days of having only 19 members to the shining moment and multiple campus awards.”
Hunter received a bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing from the University of Denver. He also earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Colorado. Professionally, he served as the president and CEO of the BACCHUS Peer Education Network, retiring after 25 years in 2012.
Jarod Holt, a former staff member and now South Carolina’s Greek Advisor said: “Thomas has left a lasting impact on the fraternity and sorority community and the university of South Carolina and more importantly on Epsilon-Psi Zeta. I look forward to the future endeavors he will engage in as an alumnus and appreciate the labor he has put in to leave it in a better place than he found it. ”
Michael Armstrong, Executive
Leading
Presently he is a consultant with the James R. Favor Insurance Agency serving as the Project Director for the Fraternal Health and Safety Initiative. Hunter also served for more than 25 years as chapter advisor and House Corporation member for Alpha-Pi Zeta, University of Denver. He received the Order of Merit, Lambda Chi Alpha 2002.
Business
After playing the tribute video that included testimonials from many of alumni brothers, Hunter was presented with Lambda Chi Alpha’s Distinguished Service Award by CEO Bill Farkas.
The final banquet keynote speaker was Michael Armstrong,
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
8
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
An investment for the future During the Alumni Recognition Luncheon, the Educational Foundation celebrated the completion of the $20 million Investing in Future Leaders Campaign. By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)
On Saturday, July 26, the Educational Foundation of Lambda Chi Alpha celebrated the completion of the Investing in Future Leaders Campaign during the General Assembly’s Alumni Recognition Luncheon.
recognized the bold leadership of his fellow board members. Hoag also introduced the current Chairman of the Educational Foundation’s Board of Directors, Karl Krapek (Kettering). Throughout the tenure of the campaign, Krapek served as the chairman of the “Investing in Future Leaders” campaign. “Let me assure you, the success of this campaign is due to the work and passion of so many brothers in this room and beyond,” Krapek said.
Launched in 2011 at the Stead Leadership Seminar in Ames, Iowa, the Investing in Future Leaders Campaign was the largest fundraising effort the Educational Foundation had ever embarked upon, and netted $20,202,441. During the Alumni Recognition Luncheon Mark Hoag (Michigan State), the outgoing chairman of the Educational Foundation’s Board of Directors,
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
Krapek recognized the campaign cabinet that offered valuable feedback on how to efficiently run
9
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE a successful campaign. The cabinet was composed of Lynn Chipperfield (Drury), Hoag, Charles Jones (Sam Houston State), Dean Sellers (Florida State) and Jerre Stead (Coe). Krapek also announced a number of new endowment funds that have been created due to funding from the
“Let me assure you, the success of this campaign is due to the work and passion of so many brothers” campaign. They are the James S. Kemper Foundation Grant, the Drew Hunter Legacy Fund, the Kirk and Nancy Pond Endowed Fund, the George Spasyk Endowment Fund, the Maurice H. Hall Endowed Fund, and the Michael A. Bozzuto Endowed Fund. Finally, Krapek thanked the Educational Foundation staff for their support throughout the campaign. “Thanks to the funds raised in the Investing in Future Leaders Campaign, the Educational Foundation is already developing new programs and new goals to continue to make the Lambda Chi Alpha experience the best in the fraternal world,” Krapek said. Mark Bauer (California State – Fullerton), the CEO of the Educational Foundation, concluded the Alumni Recognition by recognizing a handful of special donors to the Investing in Future Leaders Campaign. They included Krapek, Stead, Jack Bovender (Duke), and Kevin Vasquez (Western Carolina). Bauer also recognized Jake Jacoby (Coe) who was the oldest contributor to the campaign.
the Alumni Recognition Luncheon. The Order of Merit is awarded to individuals who have who have continuously given of themselves to the Fraternity on a local or international level. This award demonstrates appreciation for service to the Fraternity, and outstanding individual and chapter accomplishments. This year’s recipients were: • Stephen Canfield (Kutztown) • Frank Derek (South Florida) • Milo Gonser (Northern Michigan) • David Hillesland (North Dakota) • Sam Odle (Alabama- Birmingham) • Ronald Sitzer (North Dakota) • Jeff Steele (Washington) • Scott Stern (South Dakota) • Mark Stitz (Drexel)
In addition to celebrating the completion of the Investing in Future Leaders Campaign, nine recipients of the Order of Merit were also honored during www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
10
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
A place to call home In early August, the professional staff of Lambda Chi Alpha moved into a new building at 11711 North Pennsylvania Street in Carmel, Ind. By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)
Filled boxes crowd the hallways waiting to be unpacked. Framed covers of earlier issues of Cross & Crescent and protraits of fraternity leaders lean idly against the walls. Stacks of leather-bound books are piled neatly in the corners of various offices. As Lambda Chi Alpha continues the slow process of unpacking and displaying all of the fraternity’s artifacts, the new home of Lambda Chi Alpha starts to take root. Located on the top floor of an office building at 11711 North Pennsylvania Street in Carmel, a suburb just north www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
of Indianapolis, the new office comfortably houses the fraternity’s professional staff. The goal of the new headquarters building is to properly showcase Lambda Chi Alpha’s vast heritage, allow for the necessary space and technical requirements of the professional staff who support the growing needs of the fraternity, and provide each visitor to the building with an enriching experience.
11
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
With 21 individual offices, a museum, a library and three meeting spaces, including a full-sized classroom, the professional staff will have the ability to host chapter retreats and to entertain guests of the fraternity. At 15,833 square feet, the building has approximately twice the square footage of the previous headquarters building at 8741 Founders Road.
Street, and a kitchenette. The classroom also displays framed sports jerseys from famous Lambda Chi brothers.
Museum The museum adjoins the classroom on the opposite end of
Beyond the structural details of Lambda Chi Alpha’s International Headquarters building, the building contains a much deeper significance. This is where our current staff can meet brothers – both collegiate and alumni – and teach them the values of fraternity. This is where our decorated past meets the great achievements of our present. And this is where our future is just as bright and ever-growing as our brotherhood has been since Lambda Chi Alpha’s inception. Welcome to 11711 North Pennsylvania Street.
Form meets function The international headquarters building offers an array of different rooms that serve professional staff members, undergraduates, alumni, volunteers, the Grand High Zeta, Educational Foundation Board members and our interfraternal colleagues.
Classroom
the entry area. Many of the same artifacts that were held in the Mason Library at 8741 Founders Road are included in the museum. The museum includes a display of the evolution of the coat of arms, badges belonging to local societies before they became Lambda Chi chapters, a framed display of Ernst Fisher’s jewelry and several cases with fraternity memorabilia. There is track lighting that enhances the museum’s displays and a monitor that may later be programed to provide information as well.
Executive meeting room The executive meeting room is directly behind the reception
The largest meeting space at the international headquarters building is the classroom. The classroom is intended to host chapters for retreats and education sessions. Features in the classroom include desks and chairs that can fit 50 members, a 75 inch monitor at the head of the classroom, a large window in the back of the room that overlooks Pennsylvania
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
area. The meeting room features a kitchenette, a monitor, an executive board table with 20 chairs, a fireplace and access to a balcony.
12
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
Mason Library On the far end of the north wing of the office building is the Mason Library meeting space. The Mason Library includes a meeting table, access to a balcony, a monitor and a bookcase with many of John E. Mason’s books.
History of Headquarters Feb. 12, 1912, Lambda Chi Alpha’s first headquarters is located at 16 Westlake Avenue in Boston, Mass. Feb. 12, 1920 the central office is moved to Kingston, Penn. Bruce McIntosh (DePauw 1916) is appointed as the first full-time chief executive (administrative secretary). Dec. 15 1920, the central office is moved from Pennsylvania to Indianapolis. March 1, 1940, the general fraternity acquired the title to a new international headquarters building, 2029 N. Meridian Street in Indianapolis. On Oct. 15, offices are moved to the new building. June 15, 1974, the new international headquarters building is dedicated in northwest Indianapolis at 8741 Founders Road.Founders Road.
Tour procedures If you are in the Indianapolis area and would like to visit the international headquarters building, please contact our front office to make a tour appointment. You may call (317) 872-8000 or email us at headquarters@lambdachi. org with the subject line: “IHQ Tour.” Please make your appointment for a tour three days in advance so that a professional staff member will be available to lead your tour.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
13
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FEATURE
Remembering a true brother John Gezelius loved two groups: the University of California at Berkeley from which he graduated in 1978 and Lambda Chi Alpha where he became a brother in 1976. By Bob Koch (Cal-Berkeley)
served on house corporation boards at U.C. Riverside and of course at Cal. At the national level, John served on the fraternity’s Standing Committee on the Constitution for several years. In 1982, John received a law degree at McGeorge School of Law and practiced primarily in Orange County with a specialization in elder law. In 2010, he returned to McGeorge and received another degree in international law. He then spent a few months in China trying to understand their legal system and building contacts for future business.
J
ohn Gezelius left us on Aug. 2, 2014 after suffering a
massive heart attack while having dinner in Orange, Calif. He is survived by a distant sister in Arizona and thousands of brothers throughout the country. John loved two groups: the University of California at Berkeley from which he graduated in 1978 and Lambda Chi Alpha where he became a brother in 1976. You couldn’t spend aa moment with John without hearing about both. To call John passionate about either group was an understatement of grand proportion.
While John was a success in the field of law, his true love was Lambda Chi. He traveled throughout the country helping chapters or colonies or more likely trying to start them based upon his wide list of contacts. Most recently, John’s focus was Texas Tech, where he was working to rebuild their chapter. His commitment to Lambda Chi was unending. In 2006, John was awarded our fraternity’s highest volunteer honor, the Order of Merit. From my perspective, John Gezelius was a true brother even before there was True Brother. Even in passing, John has continued his lifelong commitment to Lambda Chi, as he made the fraternity his life insurance beneficiary. John, my quirky, lovable brother, you will be missed!
After graduation from Cal, he served in the U.S. Air Force and was assigned to missile duty in North Dakota. There, John picked up an MBA at the University of North Dakota and he served as the chapter’s High Pi. John was also the High Pi at Cal State Fullerton and
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
14
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
55th General Assembly & Leadership Seminar awards More than 100 chapters and brothers received awards.
By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)
At the 55th General Assembly and Stead Leadership Seminar held July 24-27, 2014, at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, more than 100 chapters and many notable brothers were recognized for their accomplishments. In addition, elections were held for the Grand High Zeta and Council of Presidents. Chapter Academic Achievement Awards presented to chapters with a grade point average that was either first on their campus, or second or third on larger campuses with a greater number of fraternities.
Fall 2013 • • • • • • •
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
15
Auburn–Montgomery (Phi-Kappa) Boise State (Colony) Drury (Theta-Sigma) Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) Florida Tech (Beta-Nu) Hanover (Theta-Zeta) Incarnate Word (Pi-Epsilon)
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
• • • • • • • • • • •
Kutztown (Sigma-Gamma) Louisiana–Lafayette (Iota-Omega) Montevallo (Sigma-Epsilon) North Carolina–Greensboro (PhiTheta) Northeastern State (Delta-Beta) South Dakota School of Mines (Colony) Southern Indiana (Phi-Xi) Tennessee–Chattanooga (Zeta-Phi) Union (Lambda-Zeta) Wake Forest (Theta-Tau) Wilmington College (Pi-Delta)
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Alumni Affairs Recognizes outstanding alumni programming within the chapter; including alumni organization, events and activities, mentoring, and fundraising efforts. • Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa) • California Polytechnic (Phi-Sigma)
Alumni Publications
Spring 2013 • • • •
• Towson (Phi-Omega) • Western Carolina (Beta-Zeta)
Auburn–Montgomery (Phi-Kappa) Boise State (Colony) Boston (Alpha) Colorado State–Pueblo (DeltaOmega) Edinboro (Beta-Delta) Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) Georgetown (Kappa-Omega) Hanover (Theta-Zeta) Incarnate Word (Pi-Epsilon) Kutztown (Sigma-Gamma) Louisiana-Lafayette (Iota-Omega) Minnesota State (Lambda-Delta) New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha) North Carolina–Greensboro (PhiTheta) Northeastern State (Delta-Beta) Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta) Polytechnic (Theta-Upsilon) South Dakota School of Mines (Colony) Southeast Missouri State (DeltaPhi) St. Louis College of Pharmacy (PiLambda)
Awarded to chapters with outstanding alumni newsletters. At least two issues must be published and submitted to the International Headquarters during the academic year. • Drexel (Epsilon-Xi) • Ball State (Iota-Alpha) • South Carolina (Epsilon-Psi)
Bruce McIntosh Standards for Chapter Excellence Recognizes chapters for their significant achievements in the noble pursuit of excellence, particularly their use of the Standards for Chapter Excellence Program.
Campus Involvement Awarded to chapters with extensive involvement in extracurricular activities. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
California polytechnic (Phi-Sigma) Coe (Zeta-Alpha) Embry-Riddle (Sigma-Phi) Georgetown (Kappa-Omega) Huntingdon (Colony) John Carroll (Colony) Kettering (Lambda-Epsilon A) Mississippi State (Epsilon-Chi) Missouri Science and Technology (Alpha-Delta) New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha) Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho) Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta) Pennsylvania (Epsilon) Rennsselaer (Epsilon-Eta) Rollins (Colony) Simpson (Theta-Lambda) South Dakota Mines (Colony) Southern California (Zeta-Delta) St. Louis College of Pharmacy (PiLambda) Texas (Alpha-Mu) Western Carolina (Beta-Zeta) Worcester Polytechnic (Pi)
Feeding America
• Hanover (Theta-Zeta) • Simpson (Theta-Lambda) • Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho)
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
16
Cross & Crescent September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
Awarded to chapters that collect and verify more than 10,000 pounds of food. The top chapters received special recognition. 1. Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) --
182,799 pounds 2. New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha) -147,788 pounds 3. Missouri S&T (Alpha-Delta) -108,629 pounds • Ball State (Iota-Alpha) • Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon) • California-Polytechnic (Phi-Sigma) • Coe (Zeta-Alpha) • Drury (Theta-Sigma) • Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi) • Florida Tech (Beta-Nu) • Incarnate Word (Pi-Epsilon) • Louisiana-Lafayette (Iota-Omega) • Mississippi State (Epsilon-Chi) • Missouri S&T (Alpha-Delta) • Murray State (Lambda-Eta) • Ner Orleans (Lambda-Alpha) • Northern Colorado (Sigma-Omega) • Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho) • Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta) • Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) • Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) • Simpson (Theta-Lambda) • South Carolina (Epsilon-Psi) • St. Mary’s (Sigma-Beta) • Texas-Austin (Alpha-Mu) • Texas-San Antonio (Phi-Upsilon) • Union (Lambda-Zeta) • Worcester (Pi)
Grand High Alpha
Membership Recruitment
Recognizes chapters that have maintained a superior level of operations for at least three consecutive years. A chapter may earn the award only once every three years.
Awarded to chapters with outstanding success in recruitment and 100 percent associate member retention. • • • • • • • • •
• Worcester Polytechnic (Pi) • Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda)
James R. Favor Harm Reduction Education This award recognizes excellence in harm reduction educational programming that have been developed within a chapter. • Missouri (Gamma-Kappa) • Alberta (Epsilon-Rho)
Lewis A. Plourd Fraternity Education Presented to chapters whose outstanding Fraternity Education Program includes the entire membership, involves alumni, and incorporates a highly effective Big Brother program.
• • • • • • • • •
Alabama (Alpha-Phi) American (Pi-Omicron) Baldwin Wallace (Kappa-Phi) Coe (Zeta-Alpha) Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) Georgetown (Kappa-Omega) Maryland-Baltimore County (PhiDelta) Mercer (Zeta-Omega) North Carolina–Greensboro (PhiTheta) Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) Shippensburg (Phi-Tau) Spring Hill (Delta-Delta) St. Louis College of Pharmacy (PiLambda) Wake Forest (Theta-Tau) Washington & Lee (Gamma-Phi) western carolina (Beta-Zeta) William Jewell (Epsilon-Nu) Wilmington college (Pi-Delta)
Phoenix Presented to a chapter that has made unusually positive strides in overall chapter operations for at least three consecutive years, taking into consideration improved membership size, depth of programming, and riskfree operations. • Virginia Tech(Sigma-Lambda) • Maine (Beta)
• Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho) • Worcester Polytechnic (Pi)
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
17
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
Rev. S. George “Doc” Dirghalli Scholastic Programming Recognizes chapters that have developed an outstanding program resulting in superior academic achievement of its members. • Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) • Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) • Northeastern State (Delta-Beta)
Warren A. Cole Recruitment Program
The George W. Spasyk Order of Interfraternity Service
Recognizes chapters that have developed and implemented wellorganized and effective recruitment programs. • Cincinnati (Gamma-Sigma) • Mississippi State (Epsilon-Chi)
Tozier Brown Public Affairs Recognizes chapters with the most outstanding programs of community service and philanthropic activities. The award is divided into two categories: Public Affairs Programs and Most Outstanding Public Affairs Project.
Public Affairs Program • California Polytechnic (Phi-Sigma) • Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) • Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta)
Public Affairs Project • Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) • Pennsylvania State (Zeta) • California Polytechnic (Phi-Sigma)
Website Recognizes chapters with outstanding advances in the use of computer technology, layout, content management, computer graphics, and website design. • Ball State (Iota-Alpha) • Rensselaer (Epsilon-Eta) • Iowa State (Alpha-Tau)
The Order of Interfraternity Service was created in 1958 to recognize those men and women who have contributed outstanding service in the betterment of all college fraternal organizations. In 2002, this exceptional award was renamed “The George W. Spasyk Order of Interfraternity Service,” to honor and recognize Executive Vice President Emeritus George Spasyk for his 40 years of service and commitment to Lambda Chi Alpha and the interfraternity world.
• Peter D. Smithhisler (Western Illinois)
Fraternity Advisor of the Year May be awarded annually to a fraternity or Greek advisor who has rendered exemplary service to the Greek system on a particular campus or on a number of campuses.
Individual Awards Cyril F. “Duke” Flad Outstanding Undergraduate Created in 1970, this award honors Cyril F. “Duke” Flad, who served as the Fraternity’s second chief executive from 1942 to 1968. One outstanding undergraduate brother is selected annually to receive this award.
• Adam Cantley, assistant director
of University Student Centers at the University of Delaware
• Thomas Landzert (South Carolina)
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
18
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
Order of Merit
Grand High Zeta
Since 1935, Lambda Chi Alpha has recognized unusual, lengthy and dedicated service — particularly at the local chapter level — with election to the Order of Merit. Those who have served on the Grand High Zeta are ineligible for this award.
The Grand High Zeta serves as the board of directors for Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. It consists of nine members elected by the General Assembly to fill alternating four-year terms: one or two alumni members appointed by the Grand High Zeta to fill two-year terms; the chairman and vice chairman of the Student Advisory Committee to serve one-year terms as Grand High Sigma and Grand High Theta, respectively; and the chairman and vice chairman of the Council of Presidents to serve one-year terms as Grand High Nu and Grand High Psi, respectively.
• Stephen M. Canfield (Kutztown) • Frank A. Derek (South Florida) • Milo N. Gonser (Northern Michi-
gan) • David Hillesland (North Dakota) • Dr. Sam W. Odle (Alabama-Bir• • • •
mingham) Ronald D. Sitzer (North Dakota) Dr. Jeffrey J. Steele (Washington) Scott G. Stern (South Dakota) Mark Stitz (Drexel)
During the 55th General Assembly the elected Board members are: • M. Fletcher McElreath (Mercer) – Grand High Alpha • Gregg D. Behrens (Iowa State) - Grand High Tau
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
19
• Wayne G. Klasing (Bradley) - Grand High Iota • Dr. Scott H. Reikofski (Northern Colorado) - Grand High Kappa • Peter D. Smithhisler (Western Illinois) Grand High Delta • Jeffrey A. Stuerman (Culver-Stockton) Grand High Pi
Council of Presidents The Council of Presidents was created to further undergraduate representation on the Grand High Zeta. A chairman and vice chairman are selected by other chapter presidents attending the conference to serve as members of the Grand High Zeta as the Grand High Nu and Grand High Pi, respectively. • Nicholas R. Meyer (Oregon State 2015) -- Grand High Nu • Austin T. Harrison (Mercer 2016) -Grand High Psi
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
The fraternity introduces major legislative changes
Changes to the Constituation and Statutory Code become effective immediately after being introduced and approved at the 55th General Assembly.
By Justin Fisher (North Carolina-Greensboro)
Editor’s Note: The purpose of this article is to provide a summary of the major legislative changes that were approved at the 55th General Assembly. It does not cover all of the changes nor does it cover every detail of each change. All members are encouraged to read through the 42nd Edition of the Constitution and Statutory Code. All legislation at a General Assembly is effective immediately not after a 60 day waiting period.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
The purpose of the new changes being effective immediately is so that chapters since will not have to change the version of the Constitution and Statutory Code they are using in the middle of an academic term. The Grand High Zeta will set dues and fees going forward, subject to a 5 percent maximum annual increase and subject to review by the Student Advisory Committee (SAC). If an increase is scheduled, it will be communicated to the membership no later than May 30 and the change will be
20
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
FRATERNITY NEWS implemented on July 1. This affects active dues, associate member fee, initiation fee, charter fee and the basic chapter fee. We have deleted the requirement for filing both a monthly financial statement and a budget with the Office of Administration, and have added the requirement for timely filing of IRS Form 990. Chapters do not have to file monthly statements nor a budget but they should be able to produce either or both upon request. Approximately 30 chapters have lost their tax-exempt status due to not filing their IRS Form 990 in a timely manner. This change is another attempt to prevent this issue from reoccurring. Official delegates no longer have to present written credentials at a General Assembly. An associate
member can be an official delegate. Absence from a General Assembly or a Leadership Seminar must be excused in advance. This brings our laws in line with current practices in place at the General Assembly. We have deleted any reference to conclave meetings as well as regional management conferences, and have replaced them with a general provision for regional leadership workshops and regional events. This was done to provide greater flexibility to the fraternity. It allows an opportunity to potentially change the schedule of our annual conferences. The Council of Presidents has been eliminated and the two Grand High Zeta members
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
21
from COP have been replaced by two at-large members selected by SAC. Student representation on the GHZ remains at four. The amount and type of student representation on the Grand High Zeta has not changed. Two High Alphas will continue to serve on the Grand High Zeta but they now are members of the Student Advisory Committee instead of the Council of Presidents. We have deleted all references to “Subordinate� Zetas. They are now simply called Zetas. This is a cosmetic change. We have deleted all references to alumni chapters and official alumni organizations at the chapter level.
Cross 2013 Cross && Crescent Crescent October September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
There are three defined chapterlevel alumni organizations: the house corporation, the Alumni Advisory Board and (where implemented) an Alumni Control Board. This change was made to add clarity to alumni entities that work with chapters. There are still alumni associations and other alumni groups, but they are alumni focused, not chapter focused. We have deleted the requirement that the bylaws be updated every two years and have replaced it with a biennial certification by the High Pi that the bylaws are up-to-date with the laws of the fraternity.
The High Pi will be responsible for ensuring that chapter bylaws are up-to-date with the laws of the fraternity every two years. Chapters without a High Pi may contact the Office of Administration for questions regarding chapter bylaws. The chapter GPA is now 2.75 or the level set in the chapter bylaws, whichever is the greater. This increases our chapter GPA requirement but does not change the individual GPA requirement. We now specify that a chapter failing to satisfy any of the Chapter Operating Standards will be subject to such sanctions and limitations as may be imposed by
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
22
the Grand High Zeta. This means any chapter failing to meet any operating standard could be subject to a penalty created by the Grand High Zeta. We have changed the ranking of the High Zeta officers.
The new ranking order is: • High Alpha (President) • High Beta (First Vice President) High Theta (Second Vice President) • High Gamma (Secretary) • High Tau (Treasurer) • High Iota (Risk Manager) • High Rho (Alumni Liaison)
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS • High Kappa (Fraternity Educator) • High Delta (Recruitment Chairman) • High Phi (Ritualist) • High Sigma (Educational Chairman) • High Epsilon (Social Chairman) The offices of High Rho and High Epsilon are the only ones to change positions. We have provided that a member may hold no more than one High Zeta office at any given time, except by permission of the Grand High Zeta. We have provided that an associate member may hold any High Zeta office except that of High Phi. No member is allowed to hold multiple High Zeta offices at the same time, unless approved by the Grand High Zeta. We have provided that election of High Zeta officers shall be held annually at a time and in the manner prescribed by the chapter’s bylaws, and have eliminated all other election requirements. Previously there were restrictions when nominations and elections could take place but these restrictions have now been removed. We have deleted all of the mandated committees at the chapter level except the Executive Committee. All committees and all additional officers are at the discretion of the chapter in its bylaws. This change was made to provide chapters more freedom to govern
themselves since they are now able to develop their own committee system. We have made it clear that associate members may vote on the removal of a High Zeta officer. We have made it clear that removal from office is not “discipline” as defined in Article 7 of the Constitution and that such actions are therefore not subject to the basic rights under the Constitution. These changes were made to further clarify these provisions. The general fraternity has found that this has been an area of confusion in the past. Associate members count for the purpose of a quorum at chapter meetings. A quorum is defined as 50 percent of the total number of members eligible to vote, plus one. Associate members should be counted in that number. We have increased the length of time after graduation before a brother may serve as a High Pi from two years to five years. A brother must be five years removed from graduation to serve as High Pi. We have moved the provisions regarding Alumni Advisory Boards and Alumni Control Boards from the Statutory Code to the Constitution, and have expanded the descriptions of their formation and their powers for greater clarity.
has clearly defined duties and authorities. The Student Advisory Committee (SAC) selection process has changed. All interested brothers must complete the SAC application by March 15 and submit it to the Office of Administration. The current SAC will review all applications and recommend a slate to the Grand High Alpha by May 1. An associate member who dies before initiation may be given a zeta number with permission of the Grand High Zeta. The chapter must submit a petition to the Office of Administration. The petition will then be sent to the Grand High Zeta for review. The Executive Committee may discipline any member in an informal process without the right to counsel, witnesses, etc. The member may appeal the discipline to a full disciplinary hearing. The Executive Committee may determine its own hearing procedures, as long as the accused member has the right to be present and to be heard. The accused member also has the right to appeal the decision of the Executive Committee to a formal disciplinary hearing before the chapter.
Alumni Advisory Board and Alumni Control Board have been clearly defined. Each board
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
23
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
New chapter officer training system arrives Officer Academy is designed to better educate officers about the roles, responsibilities and duties of their office, as well as the fraternity’s governance and policies.
By Chris Buck (Ball State)
Officer Academy is Lambda Chi Alpha’s new online officer training program. It is a self-guided program to prepare newly-elected officers for their journey to lead their chapters. Officer Academy is designed to better educate officers about the roles, responsibilities, and duties of their office, as well as the fraternity’s governance and policies. The website for Officer Academy is oa.lambdachi.org. Officers should use their Officer Portal (OP) account, using the same username and password they have for Officer Portal for Officer Academy.
www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
Modules & Certification Each officer has office-specific modules as well as all general modules, which explain either roles and responsibilities or general Lambda Chi Alpha policies or procedures. There are modules for members of the Executive Committee to complete as well. The first time that an officer reviews a module he must complete it in order that, on subsequent visits, the system will recognize he has already reviewed it. He must also listen to the audio on each slide before the
24
Cross & Crescent October 2013 September 2014
FRATERNITY NEWS
begins the certification process he must complete it. The questions are pulled directly off the general modules and will not be officer-specific. Officers will have 25 questions to answer that will be randomly selected from a large pool. Each officer’s certification will have a different set of questions. An officer must review all modules, officer-specific and general, before he will be able to complete the certification. For the Fall 2014 academic term, all officers and Executive Committee members (regardless of start date) have until Oct. 4, 2014 to complete the certification process. High Zeta officers and Executive Committee members must get certified once annually, when they are elected to a new office position and annually thereafter. Starting in spring 2015, each officer and Executive Committee member will have 45 days from the start date entered into Officer Portal to complete the certification process. All officers and Executive Committee members in each chapter must be certified by Nov. 1 to receive the spring’s RMA discount and by April 1 to receive the fall’s RMA discount.
“Next” button will be available for selection. Once he has completely reviewed the entire module he will not have to listen to the audio again if he later returns to it. The certification process allows officers to test their knowledge and become the best possible officer for their chapter. In addition, if all members of the High Zeta and the Executive Committee complete the certification and pass with a score of at least 90 percent, their chapter will receive a discount on its Risk Management Assessment (RMA).
Officer Academy is only available for officers, including the discussion board. Each officer’s name and chapter will be tied to all questions and comments posted on the discussion board.
Questions & Support Contact your ELC or email programming@lambdachi.org for assistance.
Each officer has two attempts to get 90 percent on the certification. If officers wish to retake the certification, they must wait 24 hours to try again. Once an officer www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent
25 25
Cross 2014 Cross && Crescent Crescent September October 2013 September 2014