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Cross & Crescent a Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity publication
‘I OWE LAMBDA CHI EVERYTHING’ Chairman, President, and CEO Kevin Vasquez leads Butler Schein Animal Health, the world’s largest veterinary distribution company. A graduate of Western Carolina, he credits the Fraternity with making him the man he is today. By Chris Barrick (Butler)
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Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news, and report of death
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History The Cole Ritual: Its Debt to the Grange
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Fraternity News Seven brothers join International Headquarters as ELCs
ORDER OF ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received the Order of Achievement on April 24, 2010, during a banquet held in his honor the University of North Dakota. By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)
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STLCOP’S BRIGHT FUTURE Pi-Lambda at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy was colonized in 2004 and was installed in 2005. By Jon Williamson (Maryland)
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SAN DIEGO’S SECRET FOR SUCCESS
The Delta-Kappa chapter at the University of San Diego is the largest fraternity on the campus, carries a 3.19 GPA, and earned the Dean’s Trophy four of the past nine years By Jon Williamson (Maryland)
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EPSILON-DELTA’S MISFORTUNE After winning the Grand High Alpha Award in 1998, the Montana State chapter voluntarily surrendered its charter just eight short years later. By Jon Williamson (Maryland)
CREDITS
CONTRIBUTIONS
Publisher: Bill Farkas Editor: Tad Lichtenauer Assistant Editor: Chris Barrick Illustrator: Jeff Reisdorfer Thomas Roberts Photographer: Walt Moser Assignment Editor: Jon Williamson Historian: Mike Raymond Contributing Editors: Jono Hren Bob McLaughlin George Spasyk
Content for consideration should be submitted by the 20th of the month. Lambda Chi Alpha 8741 Founders Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46268-1338 (317) 872-8000 editor@lambdachi.org www.lambdachi.org www.crossandcrescent.com
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Cross & Crescent
June 2010
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news, and reports of death Angelo State (Beta-Alpha)
California Poly (Phi-Sigma)
White Rose was held at the Patio in San Angelo, TX. Before the formal, the alumni and actives of Beta-Alpha competed in a friendly match of softball, the second year in which the game was held. Amidst friendly trash talking and gloating, the brothers, active and alumni alike, came together and had a great time, with the actives turning down their game and allowing the alumni to win. Former High Alpha, Rusty Taylor, BAZ 577, graduated on May 15 from Angelo State University.
Auburn (Omega)
Finals are over now and its starting to quiet down around the Lambda Chi Omega Zeta house. After several very successful philanthropies this past semester we are currently in the process of planning our major fall events. As of now we have a haunted house planned for Halloween for the underprivileged children with Project Uplift. We also have a campus-wide Blood Drive scheduled. We are also, for the first time ever at Omega Zeta, currently trying to get the Watermelon Bust scheduled for the fall. Should be a very busy semester.
During the weekend of April 23-24, 2010, 10 chapter brothers participated in the Southern California Ragnar Relay Race, raising $1,000 for the American Red Cross. The relay race started in Ventura, California, and trekked 200.3 miles down the California coast to Salt Creek State Beach in Dana Point, California. The team began the run at 9 a.m. and ran straight through the night, finishing around 3 p.m. the following afternoon.
Central Missouri (Lambda-Pi)
Greg Thomas (1981) has served as a wrestling, football, and baseball coach for nearly 30 years. He is currently the head wrestling and assistant football coach at Grandview High School. He also helps part-time with the River of Refuge Dream Center in Raytown, Missouri.
Colorado State-Pueblo (Delta-Omega) Baldwin-Wallace (Kappa-Phi)
Thomas A. Kazee (1973) was named the new 23rd president of the University of Evansville. He was elected by the Board of Trustees on April 9, 2010. He is currently the provost and executive vice president of Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. Prior to that he served four years as dean of the college at the University of the South (Sewanee), and for 18 years as a faculty member (the last 10 as chair) at Davidson College’s Department of Political Science.
Chapter President Wes Cordova and Associate Member Gerson Lopez are both employed as resident assistants.
ELC Josh Birchfield was promoted to associate director of chapter services for the International Headquarters in Indianapolis.
For the second consecutive year, the chapter received more awards than any other fraternity or sorority on campus during the Greek Week competition. This year’s awards included: Excellence in Recruitment, Best Relationship with the University, Excellence in Academics, and Brother Blake Triplett brought home President of the Year.
Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon)
The chapter held its first Watermelon Bash, supported by the Greek Council and Office of Student Activities.
Delaware (Lambda-Beta)
Boston (Alpha)
Ten chapter members participated in the university’s Relay For Life, raising more than $1,330 for the American Cancer Society.
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More than 75 brothers attended an alumni golf outing and barbeque. Special thanks to Alumni Chairman Brandon Biro for organizing the event and to House Manager Nick Talmo for ensuring the chapter house was in top shape.
Cross & Crescent
June 2010
CHAPTER NEWS Alumni Brothers Don Helwig, Steve Koenigsberg, and Adam Striebinger were unable to attend but made very generous contributions to support the event. Founding Father Ralph Von Dem Hagen (1966) was in attendance.
The chapter held an Initiation ritual on April 30, 2010, for the following associate members: Matthew McHugh, Robert Liska, and Tyler Wernecke.
Michael Rudoff was selected as Greek Man of the Year and Romison Saint-Louis received the inaugural Alpha-Omega Greek Excellent Award in part for his efforts as president of Habitat for Humanity at Elmhurst College and chapter vice president.
Denver (Alpha-Pi)
Scott Huelskamp won his first professional golf tournament, the CB Waterworks Pro Tour’s event at Buffalo Run Golf Course in Commerce City, Colorado.
Embry-Riddle (Sigma-Phi)
Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa)
Out of 12 fraternities, the chapter placed fourth overall at Greek Week 2010 competition. The chapter participated in Football, Go Green Jeopardy, Pipino Run, Arm Wrestling, Water Relays, Tricycle Race, Chariot Race, Step and Stroll, Talent Show, Can Competition, and Tug of War. A big congratulations to Alumni Chairman Jamal Atif and Anthony Picataggi, who were elected to the Alumni Chapter Advisory Board.
Chapter President Justin Fletcher was elected president of the Student Government Association.
Jeffrey D. Shore (1989) died May 1, 2010. He worked for Salomon Brothers and Citigroup in Tampa, Florida; Barclays Global Investors and Investors Bank and Trust in San Francisco, California; and most recently, he worked at TIAA-CREF in Charlotte, North Carolina, as a director.
Ferris State (Iota-Psi)
The Alumni Corporation held its annual meeting on May 1, 2010. Chairman John McGarrigle reviewed the year’s achievements, including the re-colonization, implementation of the officer mentor program, initiation of the re-founders in January, and successful negotiations to re-occupy the chapter house on September 1, 2010. Chapter President Theo Speedy presented an update on the colony. Alumni Chairman Jamal Atif presented a plaque to the alumni to memorialize the undergraduates’ appreciation.
Drury (Theta-Sigma)
Lynn Chipperfield (1973), currently a member of the Grand High Zeta, has been elected chairman of the Board of Trustees at Drury University. With his election, the chairman of the board, the vice-chairman of the board, the treasurer of the board, the president of the university, and the president of the university’s Alumni Association are all Lambda Chis.
Florida (Epsilon-Mu)
Eastern Illinois (Phi-Alpha)
Former chapter President Dirk Bennett was named Greek President of the Year.
Nnamdi K. Clark died April 29, 2010.
Dr. Brent Knight was named Distinguished Alumni at Ferris State at an awards ceremony held on May 6, 2010. The award is presented to individuals who demonstrate leadership and service to their profession, community, service organizations, and alma mater. Brent began his professional career at Illinois’ Triton College in 1971 holding various administrative posts before being selected president of the college in 1976. He has held several other leadership positions in his career, including presidency of Pierce College (1985–1989) and Morton College (2003–2007). From 1996 to 2000, he served as president of Investment Resources, Inc. Currently, he is the president of Lansing Community College. Charles Smith is working as a summer intern for the Business Affairs Department oof the International Headquarters in Indianapolis.
Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi)
The chapter raised approximately $500 through an alumni golf tournament at Florida Southern College.
Edinboro (Beta-Delta)
Jesse Stormer, an animation major, is working as a summer intern for the Communications/IT Department at the International Headuqarters in Indianapolis.
After serving as compliance manager for Chapter Services Department, Thomas Roberts (2009) was promoted to associate director of communications/IT at the International Headquarters in Indianapolis. In his new role, he will be responsible for the Fraternity’s graphic design/branding program and the online chapter communications process.
The chapter organized a committee to contact alumni brothers and establish more accurate contact information. The chapter held an open house for alumni brothers to meet with current active brothers. The chapter organized a philanthropy event, “Miss Epsilon-Xi Beauty Pageant,” where they collected canned
Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) www.crossandcrescent.com
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CHAPTER NEWS
Kettering-A (Lambda-Epsilon A)
food items for donation to Lighthouse Ministries.
With the combined success of the fall semester’s Watermelon Bust and Miss Epsilon-Xi, the chapter received the Best Philanthropy Award through the Order of Omega Greek Life Awards.
Kettering-B (Lambda-Epsilon B)
Florida State (Zeta-Rho)
The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for 13 associate members. The ceremony was organized by Fraternity Educator Boomer Hart and Ritualist Ryan Saboff.
Evan D. Jennings III died May 27, 2020. He rose from an entrylevel real estate agent to a position of national prominence within the multi-family housing industry. His first sales position was in Atlanta with Shell Oil Co. Subsequently he worked with Zerox and Baxter Travenol. In 1974, Jennings obtained his real estate license and began working with Coldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate. He specialized in the marketing and sales of multifamily properties. Jennings continued his real estate career with Merrill Lynch where he launched their first multi-family division. From there, he moved to the Johnstown American Commercial Real Estate Services Co. before co-founding his first company, The Apartment Group, Inc. in 1996. At The Apartment Group, Evan’s entrepreneurial skills were honed and the company was the first to specialize exclusively in the sale of multi-family housing opportunities on the East Coast.
Gettysburg (Theta-Pi)
ELC Chris Cole was promoted to associate director of chapter services for the International Headquarters in Indianapolis. The chapter held a Pig Roast fundraiser.
Illinois (Chi)
Claud Jinks (1970) died April 4, 2010. He enjoyed a long career in the motorcycle industry, first as the owner/ manager of Harley-Davidson of Lincoln, Nebraska, then as district sales manager for Harley-Davidson Motor Co., and most recently as founder and manager of Dynamic Dealer Strategies, a consulting firm serving motorcycle dealerships.
Illinois State (Beta-Omicron)
Chapter brothers volunteered at Festival Internationale de Louisiane, a music and culture festival in Lafayette, Louisiana.
With the help of the sororities on campus, the brothers made more than 50 care packages to send to soldiers overseas.
For the first time, the chapter made it to 4-Star status, which is an evaluation done by the university.
Winn Lavorgna received an internship to work in the Chapter Services Department at the International Headquarters in Indianapolis.
Dominick Rancatore was selected as a member of the International Ritual Team for the 53rd General Assembly in Phoenix. Four brothers plan to attend General Assembly, the most the chapter has ever sent.
An Initiation Ritual was held for Associate Member Justin Jenkins.
Kyle Sarver, Dominick Rancatore, and Dustin Chastant became initiated members of the Order of Omega.
The alumni association has launched a new website .
Kansas (Zeta-Iota)
Robert L. Walsh (1964) died January 12, 2010. After college he joined Hostess Cake Division working in sales in Southern California and Arizona markets. In 1972, Walsh joined Frito-Lay’s headquarters in Dallas, managing specialized programs and then served as a division sales manager. From 1984 to 1987, Walsh was national director of sales for Berol Corp., an office and art supplies company. In 1987, he became vice president of sales and marketing for Rocco, Inc. After serving as senior vice president of sales and marketing for Watson Quality Foods, he began a new career in real estate with Century 21 Real Estate Unlimited. www.crossandcrescent.com
The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for eight associate members: Spencer Scott, Steven Needham, Nick Kappler, Robert Loire, Joe Strucel, Frank Richards, Kirk White, and Jordan Renn.
Louisiana-Lafayette (Iota-Omega)
High Point (Iota-Phi)
The chapter is working with the B-section chapter counterparts to help raise money for our Housing Corporation to send individuals to General Assembly.
Louisiana State (Upsilon)
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Dr. Andrew H. Hoffmann Jr. (1951) died May 18, 2010. He interned and completed his residency in obstetrics and bynecology at Charity Hospital in New Orleans on the
Cross & Crescent
June 2010
CHAPTER NEWS Independent Services. Hoffmann served his country as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed at Schilling AFB, Kansas, and headed the OB-GYN unit there for two years. In 1961, he returned to his hometown of Thibodaux to practice. He was past chief of staff at Thibodaux Regional Hospital and a past president of Lafourche Parish Medical Society.
conflicts arising from an employee’s military commitment.
Millersville (Delta-Tau)
The chapter held its annual Buzz-a-Chi and raised money for histiocytosis research.
Marietta (Kappa-Alpha)
The summer season is now here! As Marietta College has now set off on break the Lambda Chi’s have begun planning for the next year. Dates have been selected for the Watermelon Bust, September 4, 2010, and many other fall events. This is going to be a crucial fall rush as we are down to only seven members. If anyone has any suggestions or advice or could help in any way please contact Jacob Taylor at jat006@ marietta.edu. Any help would be greatly appreciated, including monetary. With only seven members and not wanting to set $500-$600 dues it is difficult to function, help others, and compete with the other fraternities on campus.
Maryland (Epsilon-Pi)
The chapter held a philanthropy event on May 9, 2010, benefiting the Maryland Wishes Foundation. The event included be a barbeque and carnival.
The chapter was nominated for three IFC awards: most improved chapter, best recruitment strategy, and best inter-Greek relations.
Two of the chapter brothers were elected to IFC cabinet positions, while most are involved in clubs and student government on campus.
The chapter placed first in intramural volleyball.
Murray State (Lambda-Eta)
Methodist (Sigma-Theta Colony)
The colony held a year-end banquet honoring all the seniors and giving the new officers their titles.
An Initiation Ritual was held in May 2010 for six associate members: Gavin Wallace, CJ Dial, Braxton Stanfield, Bryan Conway, and Michael Brawner.
Brothers competed in the All Campus Sing and finished second.
The Lambda Chi Alpha clothing drive was completed this month, with a final total of 420 pounds of clothing. Because of a pick-up scheduling problem, the clothes were donated to the Cambridge Shelter sector of the Salvation Army instead of the Boston Central branch. On April 24, 2010, 12 associate members completed the Initiation Ritual.
Kent Chandler was elected IFC president and Logan Davis was elected IFC rush chair.
New Hampshire (Alpha-Xi)
Massachusetts Inst of Technology (Lambda)
On April 9-11, 2010, the chapter hosted the 2010 Northeast Conclave. About 50 brothers representing eight chapters from throughout the Northeast attended the weekend. It was an excellent weekend of fun, learning and brotherhood. A special thanks is given to Master Steward Roger Grice, former Grand High Pi Jim Bond, Educational Foundation President Mark Bauer and ELC Travis Smith for making it such a great weekend.
Miami-FL (Epsilon-Omega)
Validity Screening Solutions’ President and CEO Darren Dupriest (1991) has been recognized as a “Patriotic Employer” by The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense organization that was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of www.crossandcrescent.com
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June 2010
CHAPTER NEWS
New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha)
Chapter President John Mineo, Vice President Brother Nick Saybe, Treasurer Lucas Funderburk, and Secretary Kevin Walker were elected as the leaders of the University of New Orleans’ student body.
The chapter held an Initiation ritual for four associate members on May 14, 2010: Brett Weissbeck, Dek Wright, Jason Precther, and Chris Muscointo.
Mark Morere and Stephen Gordon were selected as the chapter’s Alumni of the Year. Gordon was selected for his numerous donations to our chapter throughout the year and Morere was selected for buying our chapter amazing new letters.
Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda)
The chapter swept the Greek Awards, winning Philanthropy of the Year (Watermelon Bash), Greek Man of the Year (Geoff Jenks), Greek Alumni Hall of Fame (Bill Deeks), and was runner-up for Outstanding Fraternity.
Despite the bad weather, chapter brothers held a successful Watermelon Bash week working with the 10 sororities on campus to raise more than $8,000 (almost $2,000 more than last year). Vice presidents Ryan Walker and Kevin Aguas were recognized for coordinating the fundraiser. Delta Gamma was the overall winner with the Crescent Girl going to the Kappa Delta candidate.
The chapter won SING, the longest running student run production at Oregon State University. SING is a production that pairs fraternity and sororities to dance and sing in front of students and moms every Mom’s Weekend.
New Mexico State (Zeta-Gamma)
Kevin Rudi is working as a summer intern for the Educational Foundation at the International Headquarters in Indianapolis.
Northwestern (Alpha-Iota)
Jack Hoag (1950) died May 22, 2009. A World War II veteran, he worked for many years in the Chicago area for Jewel Foods. He was a self-employed manufacturing sales representative prior to his retirement.
Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho)
Founding fathers, alumni brothers, and current undergraduate brothers gathered to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the chapter’s re-chartering on the weekend of April 23-25, 2010. Founded in 1948, the chapter was brought back to life with 16 young men in 1985. Events included a chapter-hosted Saturday luncheon for founding fathers and a Saturday night brotherhood banquet. The weekend of festivities culminated with a House Corporation board of directors meeting. The newly formed House Corporation, with Tim Clevenger as president, is part of a new effort to establish a long-term, permanent housing option for the chapter.
The chapter won intramurals, winning its 18th championship in 23 years.
Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi)
The chapter won Greek Week and was named Fraternity of the Year. In addition, Vice President Jason Ramirez was named Officer of the Year, Scholarship Chairman Johnny Dix Wellington was named Executive Board Member of the Year, and Faculty Adviser Doug Younger was named Adviser of the Year)
The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for four associate members.
Rhode Island (Eta)
Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta)
The chapter earned a 3.03 GPA for the spring 2010 semester.
Oklahoma State (Alpha-Eta)
The W. Roger Webb Educational Technology Center was formally renamed on April 21, 2010, as a tribute to the leadership of Northeastern State University’s 14th president whose vision turned into reality when the building was opened in April 1997. Since then it has been known as the Northeastern Education Technology Building. During his keynote speech Webb (1963), who is now president of the University of Central Oklahoma, paused to gather words to express his gratitude for a gesture that recognizes his contributions to the university during the 19 years he served as president.
Samford (Theta-Alpha)
Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) www.crossandcrescent.com
Frank Calestino (1998) , the Deputy Director of Intelligence for the Afghan Threat Finance Cell with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Department of the Treasury, was named a 2010 Finalist — National Security and International Affairs Medal. This award recognizes a federal employee for a significant contribution to the nation in activities related to national security and international affairs (including defense, military affairs, diplomacy, foreign assistance and trade). This medal is accompanied by a $3,000 monetary award.
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Zach Owens, Nick West, Trey McNeil, and Michael MacDermott traveled to Auburn UniversityMontgomery to compete in Zeta Tau Alpha’s sand volleyball tournament, finishing second.
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June 2010
CHAPTER NEWS
Shepherd (Phi-Iota)
Villanova (Beta-Iota)
As a part of the 2010 EOC volunteers, chapter brothers were recognized by Gov. Joe Manchin during Shepherd University’s awards ceremony for aid given to the surrounding community during the snowstorms last winter. Aid included helping shovel elderly citizens driveways as well as setting up an aid shelter at a local church.
Shippensburg (Phi-Tau)
Brad Garfinkel and Jamison Reynolds (Shepherd) completed the Lehigh Valley Half Marathon in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)
Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi)
The chapter named Tim Schoolfield (1997) alumnus of the year.
Brian Gee was accepted to serve on the International Ritual Team at the 53rd General Assembly this summer in Phoenix.
The chapter held its chartering banquet on April 17, 2010. Representatives from the General Fraternity included former Grand High Pi Jim Bond (Central Missouri) and Associate Director of Harm Reduction Matt Roy (Drury).
The chapter hosted its first volleyball tournament with the Delta Zeta sorority with proceeds benefiting the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund.
Wilmington (Pi-Delta)
Jason LeGrand (1996) and Trent Blair (1996) were recognized by the university as Young Alumni Merit Award Recipients (http://www.semo.edu/news/index_28211. htm). LeGrand is the West Coast director of major gifts for the University of Maryland, College Park. Blair is a solution development leader, state government and higher education vertical markets for Johnson Controls, Inc.
On March 28, 2010, the colony welcomed its newest initiated brothers: Nick Gibbs, Joshua Kincaid, Edwin “Sam” Nieves, and Skyler Siemer.
On April 17, 2010, the chapter brothers collected 335 full garbage bags of clothes, which were given to Sugartree Ministries as a part of the North American Clothing Drive.
Chapter brothers participated in Relay for
South Dakota (Alpha-Gamma)
Collin Berke won Fraternity President of the Year Award at the University of South Dakota for his service last calendar year. Recruitment Chairman Jordan Smith won the New Member of the Year Award out of all Greek men.
Texas-San Antonio (Phi-Upsilon)
The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for nine associate members on May 22, 2010, for a total of 491 total initiated brothers.
Texas State (Lambda-Phi)
Emmy-winning actor Powers Boothe (1970) served as the keynote speaker at Texas State’s commencement held on May 15, 2010. A Distinguished Alumnus of Texas State, he has starred in numerous TV shows and films, including the recently released movie “MacGruber.”
Life 2010 at Wilmington College.
Truman State (Phi-Psi)
The chapter’s annual Lambda Chi Classic golf tournament will be held on June 27, 2010, at the The Prairies of Cahokia Golf Course, which is located just across the river from downtown St. Louis. For more information or to register, email Joseph E. Ascheman at jea1868@truman.edu.
Chapter brothers served as ushers for campus events, including The Westheimer Peace Symposium and Issues and Artists.
Tulsa (Epsilon-Upsilon)
The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for three associate members, bringing the chapter’s total membership to 46.
Chapter brothers held their annual Luau campus-wide volleyball tournament. www.crossandcrescent.com
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Cross & Crescent
June 2010
FEATURE
‘I owe Lambda Chi everything’ Chairman, President, and CEO Kevin Vasquez leads Butler Schein Animal Health, the world’s largest veterinary distribution company. A graduate of Western Carolina University, he credits the Fraternity with making him the man he is today. By Chris Barrick (Butler)
Kevin R. Vasquez (Western Carolina) remembers
out to the 50-yard line during Homecoming and given the same accolade. While standing in front of the crowd Vasquez noticed all of the brothers from his chapter giving the Fraternity “yell” and cheering for him from across the field, and he gave them the Lambda Chi Alpha sign of brotherhood.
He remembers listening in awe to the accomplishments of the executive and saying, “Man, can you imagine standing out there on the 50-yard line at Homecoming being recognized in such a fashion and honored that way?”
It was a special moment for all Lambda Chis in the stadium that day.
back in 1977 during the halftime festivities of the Western Carolina University Homecoming football game when an IBM executive vice president was marched out to the 50-yard line and presented with the university’s award of distinction.
Career Success Following graduation from Western Carolina, Vasquez went to work for Milliken & Co. He was quickly promoted to shift manager of the textile manufacturer.
Over the next 30 years Vasquez achieved his own list of accomplishments, and in 2007, it was Vasquez being marched
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Joining Lambda Chi fine-tuned my thinking, solidified the values that were already within me, and the fraternal experience boosted me, quite frankly,” Fraternity Big Brother Roland Johnson soon helped recruit Vasquez into the veterinary industry at Diamond Shamrock in a sales role, followed by positions as business manager and director of marketing. At the age of 31, Vasquez became a vice president and by 35 he was named executive vice president. The company continued to grow and he merged the animal health business with Boehringer Ingelheim. In 1999, Vasquez moved to Boehringer’s largest distribution channel partner, Butler Animal Health Supply. The company was going through a troubling time and he was recruited to become chief operating officer to develop and implement a plan to turn the company around, just as he had done on two previous occasions during his career. “The company at that time realized annual sales of $240 million and was losing millions,” says Vasquez. “I came in as chief operating officer, put a plan together, assembled a great team of people and began the process of revitalization.” Vasquez and his team turned the company around quickly, becoming profitable within a year. He was soon appointed president, and facilitated major changes in the company. First, he directed a sale of the family-owned operation to a private equity firm. In 2005, Butler Animal Health merged with another strategic organization and a private equity firm.
Finally, Vasquez facilitated another merger with pharmaceutical giant, Henry Schein, Inc. forming Butler Schein Animal Health, the largest veterinary distribution company in the world. The company has now grown to $1.4 billion in sales within the United States with plans to grow through a continued expansion in the International market. Currently, on a global basis, the Henry Schein has veterinary distribution sales of $2.1 billion. “We now capture 38 percent of the USA market and the leading share in the companion animal space by a comfortable margin,” says Vasquez, “We are the kingpin in the veterinary distribution business in the United States.” Vasquez maintains lofty goals for the company, aiming to grow at twice the market rate for the animal health sector. This expansion is achieved via organic growth in combination with an aggressive acquisition strategy. Even as its leader, Vasquez takes very little credit for the company’s success. He has created an atmosphere tailored towards empowering staff members, and believes the employees truly grasp the mission of the company and take ownership of it. “That’s when they’ll lift the organization and carry you through...I’m all about the team,” says Vasquez. “That part of Lambda Chi carried on within me...that is...working through a brotherhood, working as a team,
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and in concert to achieve a common goal that takes people and the organization beyond their own expectations.” He maintains a philosophy that the credit belongs to those in the trenches and that every organization chart needs to be flipped upside down to truly depict where the value is. “I consider myself to be on the bottom of the chart, not the top,” he explains. “It’s really those folks at the foundation of the organization chart that provide true success.” Living up to his philosophy, during the recent recession Vasquez froze the pay of all the executives to ensure that everyone else in the organization received their richly deserved merit increases. “If anything, I’m probably one of the greatest enablers that you will ever come across. I recognize good people and have a talent for promoting talent. I tear down the walls and provide an avenue to enable good people to do good work. That has turned us into the powerhouse that we are today. Quite honestly, I/we promote the core values of Lambda Chi Alpha throughout our company... this has been the secret of our success. Vasquez boasts that his company has a very low turnover rate and credits the close relationship he has with the staff. “We have a close-knit group of associates,” says Vasquez, “I truly believe that many of them would step out in front of a truck for me...but the reason I feel they would is because they know I’ll step out first.” Vasquez’s future success came in large part from the work ethic and empathy he gained as a young child. His father passed away
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FEATURE
suddenly when he was only nine years old. He grew up in eastern North Carolina with very little. He and his three siblings worked from a young age to contribute to the family. “Basically out of necessity, I had to get out there and work in the tobacco fields of North Carolina,” says Vasquez. “I never quit working. It was part of our mantra to work and help support the family along the way. I’ve done every odd job that you can imagine, from working in the fields to emptying trash to scrubbing bathrooms.“
College & Lambda Chi While sitting in his high school guidance councilor’s office, Vasquez ran across a brochure on Western Carolina. He found it to be an affordable but reputable
university, important to him since he would have to work to put himself through college. It was a wise choice in his view. “It was the only university that I applied to”, says Vasquez. “When I read the manual, it was as if it all fit, like all the stars lined up.“ Once on campus Vasquez got an early taste of Lambda Chi from a brother campaigning at his dorm and running for student government. The brother impressed him, leading to Vasquez to pursue membership in Lambda Chi. “They were the kind of guys that I identified with,” he says. “They were all forthright, mature for their ages, caring and dynamic. They were everything that I wanted to become associated with.” Initially Vasquez wasn’t going to join the fraternity because he was unable to afford it, but he became determined to find a way to make it work...which fortunately he did. “Joining Lambda Chi fine-tuned my thinking, solidified the values that were already within me, and the fraternal experience boosted me, quite frankly,” says Vasquez. “I’ve stated this publicly on a number of occasions. The brothers at BetaZeta and the Lambda Chi Alpha organization lifted me and brought out the leadership skills and values that I maintain today.” While Vasquez was in college, the Western Carolina Beta-Zeta chapter won the Grand High Alpha Award twice – once while he was president. “I still maintain a close relationship with many of my brothers – it’s been in some cases a 35-year relationship.” Lambda Chi Alpha has continued to play an important role in Vasquez’s life. He believes the values articulated within the True Brother Initiative were the values
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he learned as an undergraduate brother and continue to guide him today. “It just instilled in me a quality and fortitude. Our great Fraternity is faith-based instituting the values of true brotherhood... so everything about Lambda Chi has done nothing but boost me throughout my career,” says Vasquez. “I’ve made the statement recently that I owe Lambda Chi everything regarding any success in my life; how I’ve thought about things, and how to stay true to my convictions and my fellow man. I still carry those values -- the true values that lie within the True Brother Initiative.” Vasquez exemplifies what it is to be a lifetime brother. He meets with brothers for an annual gathering. The group continues to get excited as they yell Lambda Chi cheers. He began donating to the Fraternity right after graduating college, starting with a modest $10 and has contributed every year since. “Being a part of Lambda Chi is refreshing, invigorating, and it’s more satisfying than anything I have ever been associated with,” says Vasquez. “That’s why I stay involved and why I’ve been donating to the Fraternity for all of these years and will continue to do so.” Vasquez became a member of the Lambda Chi Investment Advisory Board in 1994, and has served as its chairman. He took a break from the General Fraternity between 2003 and 2007, but then rejoined the Educational Foundation Board of Directors.
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I will be involved with Lambda Chi as long as they want me,” says Vasquez. “A true brother doesn’t stop being a brother when he graduates from college.”
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June 2010
FEATURE
Order of Achievement Recipent Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received the Order of Achievement on April 24, 2010, during a banquet held in his honor the University of North Dakota. By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison) )
Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received the Order of Achievement on April 24, 2010, during a banquet held in his honor the University of North Dakota. After serving two terms as the state’s attorney general, he was elected as governor in 1981. About receiving the award, Olson says: “Most things are taken in stride at my time in life but I certainly appreciated it both from the national fraternity and from the local chapter. It was a very enjoyable time for me.” Lambda Chi Alpha Properties Chairman and Master Steward Mike Smith (Denver) attended the event representing the General Fraternity.
Career Olson is a Republican politician and lawyer who served as the 28th governor of North Dakota from 1981 to 1985. He received his law degree from the University of North Dakota where he joined Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity and served in the U.S. Army as a judge advocate general’s corps lawyer. In 1967 he served as chief of military justice in Munich, West Germany. From 1967 to 1969, he served as the assistant director of the Legislative Research Committee, which directed the state’s first study of strip mining, soil banks, and land reclamation. Olson entered a private law practice in 1969 under the law firm of Conmy, Rosenberg, Lucas and Olson. He ran for attorney general in 1972, and served two terms in that position.
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Years as Governor The operator wanted to confirm that he had reached Olson as he had someone waiting in the middle of the Indian Ocean, an old friend and Fraternity brother.
In 1980, Olson sought the governor’s office and successfully defeated incumbent Governor Arthur A. Link that year. Olson’s achievements during his term include the creation of the Department of Human Services, and the conversion of the Cross-Ranch to a state park. He also worked with the Task Force on Drunk Driving and supported the Garrison Diversion program. After losing his bid for re-election, he returned to private law practice in Bismarck for a year before leaving to Minneapolis to join the law firm of Fredrikson and Byron. In 1987, he left the firm to become co-owner of a die-casting company out of New Hope, Minnesota.
“It was Tom Moga. He was in the middle of his round the world sailing trip and he was in the middle of the Indian Ocean and had managed to connect through a ham radio operator to congratulate me. So that was one of those unique experiences that wouldn’t have occurred without the Fraternity.”
What’s Next? After Olson’s duty with the International Joint Commission is concluded, Olson says he won’t completely retire. Splitting time living between Arizona and the Twin Cities in Minnesota, Olson has some interesting projects on his plate.
He also is finishing his term as commissioner of the International Joint Commission of Canada and the United States, a position he was appointed to by President George W. Bush in 2002. The commission was established in 1909, and was created by Canada and the United States because they recognized that each country is affected by the other’s actions in lake and river systems along the border.
“I’ll continue, and I again think this is an extension of the values that Lambda Chi reinforced and in some cases instilled...I will continue on two of the major senior service companies in the region, Presbyterian Homes & Services and Augastana Health Care Center for Minneapolis,” he says. “They are two non-profits where I’ve been able to use my background and experience to be helpful.”
Values and Brotherhood When asked about the values he learned from Lambda Chi Alpha, Olson says: “I think it reinforced the values that my father had instilled in me. I would give the most credit to him. He was dead-straight honest, respected other people. But I would say that the Fraternity reinforced those values and that’s important....the values of the Ritual and the relationships you experience being active in a Fraternity chapter are very important.”
There’s also another project with the Humane Society and the Pets for Vets project that he is investigating becoming involved with in Minnesota. His wife is already very involved with the Humane Society so this would be a natural extension of Olson’s diverse military and public service experiences.
One of the most memorable stories Olson shared about the impact of Lambda Chi Alpha occurred when he was elected governor. “The day after I was elected governor, the phone rang at about 6 o’clock in the morning and it was a ham radio operator in Connecticut,” he says.
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St. Louis College of Pharmacy’s Bright Future With more than 50 brothers and a 3.0 GPA, the Pi-Lambda chapter actively recruits leaders on the campus, those with a top GPA, as well as men who are working toward leadership positions in other campus organizations. Jon Williamson (Maryland)
curriculum that leads to a doctor of pharmacy degree. The college has more than 1,100 students and the only major is pharmacy. Needless to say, it is an elite school and Lambda Chi is very fortunate to be on the campus. Brandon Eldridge (2009), has the distinction of being No. 1 on the Pi-Lambda chapter rolls and the honor of being its first chapter president. Both seem fitting since he went to visit a couple of his friends in college in Springfield, Missouri, who just happened to be Lambda Chis. He appreciated the concept of fraternity and returned to St. Louis College of Pharmacy with the goal of bringing Lambda Chi Alpha to the campus. It took a year, but the colony emerged in 2004 and was installed in 2005.
Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooo! Eutectics! Okay, now that I have your attention, may I see a quick show of hands of persons who know what a Eutectic is? Yes, you are correct if you identified it as the official mascot of the Saint Louis College of Pharmacy. It is a gremlin-looking creature holding a mortar and pestle.
I had a chance to speak with Evan Schnur, the current High Alpha, while he took a break during finals week. “Presently, we have 56 brothers in the chapter, many of whom hold leadership positions on the campus. Brian Ogweno is the Student Body Union president. Zac Walter is the president of the Programming Board. Two brothers, Zac Walter and Brian Chronister are members of the cross country team. Brandon Luong is the editor of Prescipto, the college yearbook. The president of Phi Lambda Sigma, the pharmacy leadership society, is Jason Wang. Kyle Amelung is president of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, and I am the student coordinator of the Missouri Pharmacy Association. The chapter continues to have a significant presence in intramurals on the campus, fielding one
Of course, I could be ruthless and ask you what a mortar and pestle are. Now, can you define eutectics? Correct again if you said it is a scientific process of combining two solids to form a liquid. For your final exam question, can you identify the only social fraternity on the SLCOP campus? Yes, it is Lambda Chi Alpha. Before I talk about the chapter it might be worthwhile to take a look at the school.
History of Pi-Lambda The St. Louis College of Pharmacy, founded in 1864 and located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a six-year professional
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those with a top GPA, as well as men who are working toward leadership positions in other campus organizations. So, our members are active during their second through fifth years.”
Alumni Relations
to three teams in each sport, and winning indoor soccer and volleyball this year. Academically, we are very proud of our 3.0 GPA last semester. The brothers are also active in philanthropy work. The proceeds from our Watermelon Bash are donated to the Arnold Food Pantry. In addition, brothers do volunteer work at the St. Patrick Center, which is a homeless shelter and soup kitchen. Besides the physical work, brothers help people at the shelter obtain employment through assisting them in building their interview skills and in resume writing.”
the first semester of their freshman year the students get used to the rugged academic schedule. During the second semester they become introduced to Lambda Chi through a number of events, both social and philanthropic. Recruitment doesn’t take place until fall of the second year and is only open to students who have a 2.4 cumulative GPA. We actively recruit leaders on the campus,
Evan also explained recruitment. “We are a six-year college with one major. During www.crossandcrescent.com
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Do you have any alumni? “This year will mark our second group of brothers graduating the program, giving us a total of 40. We are making sure we stay in touch with them through regular correspondence and we have begun making monetary requests. We are many years away from having our own chapter house, so the alumni who make contributions tell us how they want it spent. Most of the money goes toward our philanthropic efforts. We are also fortunate in having two alumni brothers assist us. Dr. Ken Schafermeyer is our faculty adviser. He is a professor of Pharmacy Administration here at the college. Justin Browne (Southwest Missouri State) is the High Pi. Justin is a master steward and attends all of our meetings. Recently, his unit in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve was called to active duty, so he will be serving in Georgia for the next year.” This is a great time for the brothers of Pi-Lambda Zeta. They are entrenched in a leadership position on the campus, emphasizing quality during the recruiting process. Hazing is unknown within the brotherhood and they are an Inner Circle chapter. The future is bright and the horizon is endless.
Cross & Crescent
June 2010
FEATURE
San Diego’s Secret to Success The Delta-Kappa chapter at the University of San Diego is the largest fraternity on the campus, carries a 3.19 GPA, and earned the Dean’s Trophy four of the past nine years. Jon Williamson (Maryland ) I began my search for the history of our chapter at the University of San Diego with a conversation with George Spasyk (Michigan 1949), executive vice president emeritus of our great Fraternity.
I located Stephen Plourd in San Diego. “I joined Lambda Chi Alpha at Arizona State and transferred to the University of San Diego. I worked with my father and brother, Chris, who was in law school at the time, to develop a chapter. At that time there was one other fraternity on the campus. By 1977, we had 12 to 15 men interested in starting a fraternity, so a colony was founded. It was an excellent experience.”
“I always enjoyed my travels to the city of San Diego,” he says. “It is a great city with good atmosphere, a naval station, and the university on the hill. I always nurtured the hope that one day we could have a chapter there. That opportunity arose when the Plourds arrived in San Diego.”
Mark Cordova (1978), president of Centennial Bolt in Colorado, remembers those early days. “I was in the first class of initiates. The chapter was installed by the San Diego State University chapter. I had a great experience and I am grateful to the Fraternity for being part of my formative years that led to success. My son was initiated into Lambda Chi Alpha at Loyola Marymount University.”
Plourds’ Influence The “Plourds” to whom George refers are Lewis A. Plourd (Butler 1949), who began his post graduate association with Lambda Chi Alpha as a traveling secretary, and two of his sons. (As an aside to this story, Lewis Plourd took George on his first training visit to DePauw University in 1950, when George joined the staff.) In 1964, Lewis Plourd became a member of the Grand High Zeta, serving initially as Grand High Kappa followed by two other positions before being elected as Grand High Alpha in 1970.
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Another brother from those earliest of days is John Trifiletti (1978). “I remember the Plourds and their efforts to found the chapter. I had the honor of serving as the first president, and Jackson Muecke and Tom Cosgrove were our faculty advisers. The installation dinner was held at the 94th Aero
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couple of years to see the fruits of our efforts. My favorite memory is when we recruited 20 men knowing that they saw the same thing we had seen and it validated our efforts. We knew then that it would live on after we had graduated. You have to trust that you have picked the right men and they will make it even better.”
Largest Fraternity on Campus To see if Rob was correct in his forecast I turned to the current chapter president, Zach Flati. “Presently, we are the largest fraternity on the campus with 124 brothers and two associate members. Our recruitment and retention rate is over 95 percent and we practice an anti-hazing policy. New AMs are welcomed into the brotherhood. We are very supportive of each other’s student organization events including philanthropy. We are very active in philanthropic efforts selling a calendar throughout campus, which raised $4,000, and sponsoring a basketball tournament. Many of the brothers work in a soup kitchen in downtown San Diego twice a month. Our GPA currently stands at 3.19 and we have captured the Dean’s Trophy, emblematic of the top fraternity on the campus, four of the past nine years. Our brothers are active in many organizations with several of the brothers participating in varsity and club sports. Ken Greenman (Southern California 1965) is our High Pi and an outstanding role model who has been recognized on the campus for his leadership.”
Squadron. Lewis Plourd passed away unexpectedly in 1979 and the colony seemed to just dissolve. The campus Greeks grew, beginning in the middle 1980s, and we returned in 1995. I have such good memories of my experiences.” Steven D. Blair (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo 1988), served on our staff from 1988 to 1990 and was a member of the Grand High Zeta beginning as Grand High Sigma in 1987-1988, and two subsequent positions from 2000 to 2004, and was the chapter’s first chapter adviser. “I remember the school administration in 1995 was totally supportive, especially the Greek adviser. We recruited upperclassmen from business organizations and top scholars. They were a mature group of men who didn’t want to waste the time they had remaining in college so they worked as a team to make their fraternity successful. This was so much more than just a social group. The chapter received tremendous assistance from the Lambda Chi alumni association in San Diego. The chapter began with an alumni advisory board, which gave them stability immediately and which continues to this day. The expansion project to the University of San Diego and eventual colonization and chartering is one of my greatest joys and fondest memories in my post-graduate Lambda Chi experience. It was really the best culmination of all my undergraduate, alumni, and General Fraternity experiences rolled into one.”
I wanted to learn the secret for their chapter’s success. Zach was very clear, “The chapter values are in alignment with the values of our school and the General Fraternity. We are good men who attract other good men.”
Rob Woods (1997) was the first chapter president to serve one full year in the position. (Rob served on staff for two years after graduation.) “I wasn’t one of the first joiners. I decided to join after a good friend in the pre-law society joined Lambda Chi. I joined the chapter because they didn’t have hazing. In addition, I already had many things going on in other campus organizations and I wanted an opportunity to be a leader within the chapter. Being a founding father is similar to being an entrepreneur in that it takes a www.crossandcrescent.com
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Epsilon-Delta’s Rise & Fall After winning the Grand High Alpha Award in 1998, the Montana State chapter voluntarily surrendered its charter just eight short years later. During its lengthy history, the Epsilon-Delta chapter produced many notable alumni brothers. By Jon Williamson (Maryland) The petitioning of Delta Tau Fraternity of Montana State College at Bozeman, Montana, to become a chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha began in June 1928.
I spoke with Robert Baxter (1971), about his memories of the chapter. “The majority of the brothers didn’t have much money. Everybody was working but we did go all-out once a year with a party we called “Yukon Days.” This was a dance and party where everyone dressed up like the old Mountain Men. It was usually held in a rented hall on the east side of Bozeman. Our chapter was a pretty good size with about 75 men on average. I lived in the house for a couple of years. The brothers were very active in intramurals, and we were especially competitive in softball. We always battled for the traveling trophy for highest GPA. My best memories were of the Ritual and the camaraderie of brothers.”
One year later the men received the backing of Bruce McIntosh, the administrative secretary for Lambda Chi at the time. However, it would be two more years, until May 8, 1931, until they were finally approved and installed by our Washington State University brothers. In previous writings on the history of various chapters you have been introduced to the term “Barbarians,” or “Barbs,” as non-fraternity men were called. From 1917 to 1924, there was a strong anti-fraternity sentiment that developed at the College which resulted in the formation of an independent organization called the “Order of the Barb.” This group of men was successful in attracting the leaders of various campus organizations and winning campus-wide elections. This organization imploded over the course of a few years with various factions breaking off into what became local fraternities, one of which was Delta Tau.
Another brother from the ‘70s is David McIntyre (1977): “I began as a GDI and didn’t want to be in a fraternity. A friend, Stu Challender (1977), invited me to visit the Lambda Chi house and I was amazed that I enjoyed myself. The fraternity was a bunch of guys just like me, working to get through school. I joined Lambda Chi in the spring of my sophomore year and lived in the house my junior and senior years. I wildly enjoyed all aspects of the house and met wonderful men for whom I came to develop a lot of respect. There are so many things that I remember which bring a smile to my face. I definitely remember the “crushes” which was where everyone would pile on in the middle of the room. You definitely didn’t want to be on the bottom of the crush. I also remember everyone would work together to accomplish a task whether it was at a philanthropy event or just working on the house. My biggest regret is that I haven’t kept up with many of my Fraternity brothers. I also remember the Yukon Days party. What made that special, in addition to everybody dressing up,
Interesting Twist An interesting twist in the chapter history occurred in 1933, when the chapter merged with the Amigo Fraternity and 19 men were initiated. In addition, the chapter moved into the former Amigo Fraternity chapter house. One of the Amigo brothers was James Gannaway (1933), president of the Associated Students. The chapter’s House Corporation was named Amigo in their honor. The original 34 petitioners of Lambda Chi were very active on campus with varsity athletes in five sports and other members in the college band, the college chorus, and in numerous professional and honorary organizations. Matt Hugo Pakkala was elected to a Rhodes Scholarship. Mr. Pakkala spent the majority of his life working for the U.S. Steel Corp. as a chief metallurgical engineer. Others in that founding group were Everett and Rolland Crumley (1932), brothers who worked as oil producers in Montana; Claude Evans who worked on the Morony Dam Project; Carl Hollensteiner (1930) who was a dredge engineer; Sidney McArthur who operated a power plant; and Paul Wenaas (1931) who was No. 1 on the chapter rolls and became the director of research for Simoniz Company.
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FEATURE was that alumni would come back to be a part of it. A couple of very special things are associated with Lambda Chi. After I joined I found out that my uncle was also a Lambda Chi of the Montana State chapter. And of course my biggest connection to both Yukon Days and the chapter house is that I met my future wife at the Yukon Days party and I proposed to her in the fraternity house, and we remain happily married.”
Top Honor, Tough Times, & Hope for the Future In the summer of 1998, the Montana State University chapter received the Grand High Alpha Award. This is our highest chapter honor, recognizing those chapters that have maintained superior operations and fraternal spirit for a minimum of three consecutive years. In this issue of Cross & Crescent you have had an opportunity to read of a chapter that was founded just five years ago and is already blossoming. In a second article you have had an opportunity to read of a chapter that was originally founded 33 years ago, lasted for only 12 months, and then was re-founded 15 years ago and is now thriving. But a fraternity chapter is a fragile entity whose strengths are its members and each year brothers leave to enter the outside world and new ones are invited to take their place. It is this latter process which is the most critical to the chapter’s success and survival. Unfortunately, in 2006, just eight short years after achieving the peak of fraternity success, the three remaining brothers of our once proud chapter at Montana State University voluntarily surrendered their charter. The chapter’s membership had included two Rhodes Scholars, three military flag officers, occupational excellence in academic achievement, and prominence in medical, legal, higher education, and business. It is the General Fraternity’s hope that, in the not too distant future, another group of men seeking the ultimate fraternity experience and capable of replicating the success of the original chapter, will take their place on the campus.
Notable Epsilon-Delta Brothers Dr. Stephen E. Balzarini (1970), professor at Gonzaga University since 1978, awarded the Gonzaga University teaching excellence award (1992); recognized in Who’s Who in American Teachers (1998). J. Gregg Berryman (1965), professor of graphic design at California State University @ Chico designed the school’s seal. Bob Brown (1970), former Montana secretary of state and the Republican nominee for governor in 2004; spent two years in the State House, 23 in the State Senate; currently a fellow at the Rocky Mountain Institute at the University of Montana.
Thomas D. Paulson (1960), graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, rear admiral, director of Navy Training and Documents; awarded the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, and Navy Commendation Medal. Ralph Polanec (1979), general manager of the Crowne Plaza Hotel – The Hamilton in Washington, D.C. Dr. Wayne Putman (1966), orthodontist in Juneau, Alaska. Robert F. “Bob” Raggio (1966), lieutenant general, commander Aeronautical Systems Center, awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (oak leaf cluster), Legion of Merit.
Kenneth M. Christison (1964), co-captain of the football team, president of the senior class, member of the Montana State University Athletic Hall of Fame, currently an attorney in California.
Erlind G. Royer (1961), brigadier general, dean of faculty, U.S. Air Force Academy, awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2 oak leaf clusters).
Joseph Crocifisso (1969), retired from the State of Montana after 30 years of service, currently an artist concentrating on the Montana landscape.
Dr. Harold Scudamore (1937), Ph.D. and MD, professor at Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Charles C. Davis (1962), professor of mechanical engineering at Kettering University. Dr. Leonard W. Etchart (1950), practicing internal medicine in Montana. Thomas Lee Finch (1990), assistant professor of military science at South Dakota School of Mines. Dr. W. Chester Fitch (1938), dean emeritus of engineering at Western Michigan University. John Thomas Hays, Jr. (1935), engineering student at Oxford (Rhodes Scholar) and returned to the California Institute of Technology to receive his doctorate in chemistry; involved with a government sponsored research program that invented synthetic rubber during World War II; served as the president of the Delaware State Golf Association. Dr. Steve A. Holt (1963), radiologist in Lakewood, Colorado.
Robert Reed Sissman (1973), set designer on numerous television series. Dr. Hollice H. Snyder (1944), professor emeritus of business at West Texas A & M. Dr. Charles Stokke (1970), dentist in Anaconda. Dr. Oscar Ardell Swenson (1953), physician in Montana. George Taylor (1952), former superior court commissioner/judge in Montana. Gene Raymond Terland (1983), Montana state director for the Bureau of Land Management in Montana and the Dakotas. Colonel Robert Alexander Tipton (1983), Commandant of the United States Army Engineer School, awarded the Bronze Star Medal with ‘V’ (3 oak leaf clusters), Army Commendation Medal (4 oak leaf clusters), served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Roy Leon Lashway (1959), retired director of auxiliary services for New Mexico State University, received Lambda Chi Alpha’s Order of Merit for service to the New Mexico State chapter.
Dr. James Tooke (1969), veterinarian in Ekalaka.
Ted Mannix (1939), former Montana state senator.
Dr. Carl Per Troedsson (1990), anesthesiologist in South Carolina.
Franklin Giles Matsler (1948), retired chancellor of Illinois State University. John O’Meara (1967), vice president of finance for the Alaska Railroad Corporation. Robert Olsson (1975), CFO of Oxygen Service Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. Dr. George F. Parke (1934), physician in Washington.
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Lt. Colonel Timothy Trefts (1987), pilot in the U.S. Air Force.
Joren J. Underdahl (1992), superintendent of Montana Veterans’ Home. David Watling (1968), CFO for M.A. Gedney in Chaska, Minnesota. G. Frank Williss (1961), historian with the National Park Service, author.
June 2010
HISTORY
The Cole Ritual: Its Debt to the Grange A two-part article about the initial creation by Lambda Chi Alpha’s founding father.
by Mike Raymond (Miami-OH)
Bruce H. McIntosh (DePauw 1916), writing in the 1930 History Number of the Purple, Green, and Gold magazine, had this to say about the Cole Ritual:
“
The first ritual of the Fraternity was an odd combination of features found in the degree work of Gamma Eta Gamma, legal fraternity, and the Grange or Patrons of Husbandry. This crude ritual did not long satisfy members of the growing Fraternity... with the result that it was virtually “junked” and the present ritual, less some minor alterations, substituted.
”
Harsh words. So harsh that Cole, in his personal copy of the History Number, circled and strongly underlined the words “crude” and “junked.” Of course, Cole had no chance to defend himself at that time against such criticism. In 1930, he was on the outside looking in. The actual date of the first Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual, while labeled 1909, was more likely 1912. John Clark Jordan, in The Confidential History of the Early Years of Lambda Chi Alpha, stated that “the evidence does not justify believing that a ritual, a constitution, a Grand High Zeta, ... were in existence prior to November, 1911.” According to the January 30, 1912, Alpha Book of Minutes, a special committee was appointed “... to work out the ‘unwritten work’ of Lambda Chi Alpha”. I believe that the Cole Ritual was written between February 1912 and May 1912. The first mention of a written Ritual was in a letter from Warren A. Cole (Boston 1912) to Albert Cross (Pennsylvania 1913) that was dated May 27, 1912. Just what influence did the Grange Ritual have on the Cole Ritual? While it is doubtful that Cole was a member of the Grange, at the time he wrote his Ritual, it is possible. The Grange does permit teenage boys and girls to join the organization. Member or not, Cole acquired a copy of the Manual of Subordinate Granges of the Patrons of Husbandry to use in his crafting of our first Ritual.
analysis of the documents and a page by page comparison of both Rituals. There is no question in my mind that Warren A. Cole borrowed heavily from the Grange Ritual. My guess is that he did this because of the pressure of time on him to have a Ritual of some kind available to initiate new members during the initial surge of five new zetas in 1912.
As to the influence of Gamma Eta Gamma on the Cole Ritual, little can be said at this time. A copy of its constitution was available to Cole and it probably influenced the content of the first edition of the Lambda Chi Alpha Constitution. No evidence can be found at this time to point to its being used in the creation our earliest Ritual.
It must be mentioned that the practice of “borrowing” elements from one fraternity’s ritual to create a new fraternity ritual is nothing new. The Grange Ritual itself leans on Freemasonry for its basic structure and form. The Freemasons, being the oldest fraternity on record, established certain landmarks, practices, procedures, and symbols that have influenced adult and collegiate fraternities that followed them. Including the present Ritual of Lambda Chi Alpha.
I have in my possession a copy of the first Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual that was used to install Gamma Zeta in 1912. It is identified as our first Ritual and was typed by Cole. I also have in my possession a copy of the Grange Ritual as issued by the National Grange. I did a content www.crossandcrescent.com
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The Business Meeting Let’s look at a variety of rituals to demonstrate the connection between the Grange and Lambda Chi Alpha Rituals. The first Ritual is for Opening a Meeting. Cole definitely cribbed this Ritual from the Grange: Grange - “The hour of labor has arrived...” Cole - “The hour of assembly has arrived...” Grange - “Let each repair to his or her allotted station.” Cole - “Let each repair to his assigned station.” Both Rituals make reference to closing the “gates” and making them “fast.” While the Grange Ritual is marked with song, Lambda Chi Alpha’s opening is spiced with the Fraternity Cry:
L.C.A. L.C.A. : RAH, RAH, RAH; Lambda Chi Alpha This is followed by the Order of Business that roughly follows the Order of Business as conducted by the Grange. Cole’s Ritual uses a more detailed balloting procedure that is very much like that of Freemasonry. Using terms like “clear,” “white ball” and “black ball” that would be familiar to all Freemasons. Grange - “Almighty Father, Maker and Ruler of the universe, and giver of every good and perfect gift, we beseech Thee to be with us on this occasion. Bless those who shall now be installed officers of the Grange, and endow them with prudence and wisdom.”
The Closing of a Meeting Ritual is very similar in the Cole and Grange Rituals: Grange - “...are the labors of the day completed?”
Cole - “Almighty Father, maker of heaven and earth we beseech Thee to be with us on this occasion, bless those who are now to be affiliated with us and take into our midst and endow them with prudence and wisdom.”
Cole - “Brothers our work for the day has been completed...” Grange - “As there is no more work for us to-day, the Steward will see that the implements are properly secured for the night.”
Taking into account some changes in sentence structure and punctuation, both passages have essentially the same meaning.
Cole - “...and as there are is no more for us to do this day, I command the E.P. (Eminent Proctor) to safely secure our implements for work in their proper places...”
The opening prayer is followed by a set of instructions to the installing officer. These instructions included a series of questions to the new zeta’s officers. The degree team was instructed to give up their positions upon the installation of the chosen officers of the new zeta. It was also noted that the “petitioning body must have been through the initiation ceremony before the opening of the Zeta.”
Cole does not mention the nature of the “implements,” so this aspect of his Ritual remains a mystery.
Ritual for Opening a Zeta
The installing officer, M.W.S.E.A.(Most Worshipful Supreme Eminent Archon), next asks each of the new zeta’s officers a series of questions. Most of the questions are addressed to the M.V.S.E.C. (Most Venerable Supreme Eminent Consul). The questions are concerned with the definition of a zeta; the division of the zeta into three jurisdictions; the duties of the officers of the zeta; and the duties of the E.A. (Eminent
It is interesting to note that Cole used the Grange’s Installation of Officers as the framework for this Ritual. This simple ceremony was used to install a new zeta of the Fraternity, in this case Gamma. Here is a direct comparison that demonstrates Cole’s liberal use of the Grange Ritual:
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Archon), E.C. (Eminient Consul), and E.Ch. (Eminent Chancellor). The first mention of the Delta appears at this time in the Cole Ritual. Though its meaning and significance has evolved over time, it represents one of the more creative and original elements of the Cole Ritual. It joins the concept of a zeta as one of our two oldest symbols. In this Ritual the Delta is closely associated with the three chief officers of a zeta at that time. It also adds a much needed symbolic element to his Ritual. Here are a couple of examples of Cole’s use of the wording of the Grange Ritual: Grange - “And now I declare the officers of this Grange duly installed. May your labors be pleasant, and your duties faithfully performed, to the satisfaction of all working under you. Be cheerful and united. ‘Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard - even Aaron’s beard - that went down to the skirts of his garment...’” Cole - “I now declare these officers duly installed and the________Zeta of Lambda Chi Alpha duly organized. May your labors be pleasant and your duties faithfully performed, to the satisfaction of all brothers working with you. Behold it is like the precious ointment, and good and pleasant for brothers to dwell together in a unity.”
Grange - “...His love, that our every good word and work may be blessed with abundant harvests of joy and peace.”
Frat. tree, olive, peace.
Cole - “May we remember that amid all that is bright and beautiful in nature, there is love and sunshine, and may we all be blessed with abundant harvests of joy and peace.”
Frat. vegetable, potato, benevolence.
In a roundabout way, the Bible verse concerning the “precious ointment” came to this Ritual by way of the Freemasons, through the Grange, to Lambda Chi Alpha. It is a perfect example of the influence of Freemasonry on other fraternal bodies. At this point in the Cole Ritual For Opening a Zeta he lists the following information about Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.
MOTTO The Fraternity Motto is Delta Phi.
COLORS Royal Purple background, and olive green background, combined with gold lettering. The Cry and Greek letters for Lambda Chi Alpha are presented to the new zeta members. After a few words about proper badge etiquette, he lists the following information:
Frat fruit, wild grape, charity.
This section of the Opening a Zeta Ritual is original and unique to our Fraternity. None of this is mentioned in the Grange Ritual. Yes, this is the source of the potato as a Fraternity symbol. The Fraternity potato has been problematic since its introduction. So much so, that Jack Mason could not find a place for it in our current Ritual. Where Cole got the notion that a potato symbolizes benevolence is unknown. There are references to the potato as a magical, healing, or reproductive symbol. As far as can be determined, it has no relationship to benevolence. A more likely interpretation would be abundance. This is because it is widely cultivated, not too difficult to grow, and many people depend on the potato for a significant part of their diet. This article will conclude next month with a comparative analysis of the Cole and Grange Initiation Rituals. Was the earliest known Lambda Chi Alpha Initiation Ritual influenced by the Grange Ritual? Stay tuned for the answer in next month’s Cross & Crescent magazine.
Frat flower, dark blue violet, faith.
The National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry Better known as the Grange, The Patrons of Husbandry was founded in 1867 by seven farmers. The first Grange was Potomic Grange #1 still located in Washington, D.C. The Grange is unique among adult fraternal organizations in its equal treatment of women, teenagers, and men. On the state and national levels, the Grange is a political force that advocates policies that aid the farm community. The birth of the Cooperative Extension Service, Rural Free Delivery, and the Farm Credit system were largely the result of the Grange lobby. The Grange is nonpartisan and welcomes anyone of good character to its membership. As with most adult fraternal groups, the Grange is struggling to maintain its members. Reaching its peak of over 1,000,000 members in 1890, today’s Grange has a membership of about 200,000 scattered over 40 states. Wikipedia, May 9, 2010
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Cross & Crescent
June 2010
FEATURE
Meet the New ELCs Seven brothers join the International Headquarters as educational leadership consultants.
By Josh Birchfield (Colorado State-Pueblo)
Under the guidance of the director of chapter services, Lambda Chi Alpha maintains a team of educational leadership consultants. As one of the most valuable services offered by the General Fraternity, the ELCs provide professional analysis and assistance for each chapter, usually twice annually, with emphasis on chapter operations, brotherhood, or special problems. Well trained in the components of a chapter, ELCs bear a deep understanding and appreciation for Lambda Chi Alpha’s ritualistic teachings and principles. The ELCs also work with the chapter officers in evaluating their duties, analyzing current problems, and developing pragmatic programs suited to each chapter’s special situation. Traveling throughout North America, ELCs have an earnest desire to support and inspire chapters to reach their full potential. The following are the seven new ELCs for the 2010-2011 school year. Man of the Year 2010, Mr. University of Memphis 2009, Executive Director for Up ‘til Dawn, Carson’s Leadership Circle, Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, and Order of Omega Leadership Society.
Bobby Collins
Bobby Collins is from Flemington, New Jersey native attended the University of Maine where he received a degree in Political Science. His former offices at Beta Zeta are High Alpha and High Kappa. At the University of Maine he was a member of the Maine Outing Club and Habitat UMaine (A branch off of Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Bangor area).
When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he told us that an active alumni, who has recently passed away, encouraged him to apply last year. “After finishing my term as Alpha, I figured I was headed on to start a life outside the fraternity. I quickly realized my time was not done with Lambda Chi Alpha. Helping to utilize brothers strengths to better a chapter is what pushed me to apply. After realizing the impact the fraternity has had and continues to have on me, I realized I was not done serving this brotherhood in a larger capacity!”
When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, Collins says he wanted to be an ELC because of how much Lambda Chi Alpha has meant to him in his four years as an undergraduate. “After working so hard to improve my chapter I decided it would be a great experience to go on and help other chapters out as well. I cannot think of a more rewarding job than being able to travel around North America and assist other chapters while meeting brothers in the process.” [edit]
Nathan Hooven
Nathan Hooven was raised in ‘the Four Corners’ in Farmington, New Mexico. He is a 2008 graduate of New Mexico State University where he received a BS in Biology and BA in Chemistry as a stepping stone into medical or dental school. He says that over his 3 years with the Fraternity, he saw the chapter grow by 100% in membership. He was astounded, and felt blessed to be a part of something so awesome.
Chase Simpson
Chase Simpson is a resident of Cordova, TN. He attended the University of Memphis majoring in Organizational Leadership, and a Minor in Management. Positions that he has held in the fraternity include High Alpha, High Beta, High Epsilon, and House Manager. His various accomplishments include: Local Chapter earned Chapter of the Year 2010, Greek
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When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said he looks forward to being a part of headquarters, and giving back to the fraternity. “I have been out of the fraternity for a year and I miss it dearly. I look forward to traveling and seeing the different chapters across the nation and Canada and hope that I can be a service to the chapters that I visit.”
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Cross & Crescent
June 2010
Survey Winners
Since 2006-2007 academic year, the Office of Administration has conductedFEATURE an assessment project to measure the efficacy of Lambda Chi Alpha’s educational programming at both the chapter and individual level. This past year, to encourage participation, incentives were offered at both the individual and chapter level, resulting in almost a 20 percent increase in participation. The chapter incentive was a free General Assembly Initiation for the highest completion percentage, and individual associate members and brothers were randomly selected to win 8GB iPod nanos. Below, you will see the chapters and brothers who were rewarded for their outstanding participation in this assessment project: Associate Survey GA Winners (100% participation) * Ball State (Iota-Alpha) * Georgetown (Kappa-Omega) * Missouri S&T (Alpha-Delta) * Simpson (Theta-Lambda)
Initiate Survey GA Winners (100% participation) * Florida Tech (Beta-Nu) * Franklin (Kappa-Gamma) * George Washington (Delta-Xi) * Ohio State (Gamma-Tau)
Associate Survey (90% - 99% participation) * Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon) * Georgia Tech (Beta-Kappa) * Iowa (Iota-Chi) * Kansas State (Gamma-Xi) * Lycoming (Iota-Beta) * Memphis (Zeta-Theta) * Mercer (Zeta-Omega)
Aaron Fiesler
2006, during which time he held the offices of High Tau, High Alpha and High Kappa. While in school, he was also involved with the Student Government, the Dean of Students Office, IFC, and worked in the student union. Justin enjoys basketball, golf, and tennis
Aaron Fiesler is a former resident of from Bowling Green, Missouri. He attended Culver-Stockton College for four years and graduated with a degree in Finance. He joined Lambda Chi Alpha his freshman year and later was elected to High Tau. He was elected High Alpha his sophomore year. He has held presidency in the positions of IFC, and Student Government.
When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said he became interested in the position after one of his ELCs got him interested in the Fraternity’s national operations. He says that he looks forward to working with different chapters and meeting brothers from across the country, being able to mentor younger brothers and help them along their journey, as well as looking foreword to his own opportunity to grow and learn about Lambda Chi Alpha.
When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said because Lambda Chi Alpha has given him so much over the years that he wants to teach other brothers what he’s learned.
Patrick Vaughn
Patrick Vaughan is from Cleveland, Oklahoma, and is a recent graduate of Northeastern State University with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management. During his time at NSU, he held the offices of social chairman and president. Patrick was also involved in Rookie Bridge Camp, Northeastern Activities Board, Northeastern Student Government Association, Colleges Strategies, and Student Homecoming Week Committee. He was also a member of the President’s Leadership Class, Rho Theta Sigma Honors Society, Delta Mu Delta Business Honors Society, Outstanding Greek Freshman, Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, Outstanding Greek President, and Top 5 Greek Males during his time at NSU. Most recently he was named the Most Outstanding Senior for the Class of 2010 at Northeastern.
Aaron Gomeztrejo
Aaron Gomeztrejo is originally from southern California. He is a graduate of the University of California in San Diego with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. He says that highlights of his college career were serving as President of Pi-Beta chapter of LCA, and winning the “Brother of the Year”. When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said the road that led to him to becoming an ELC was paved with curiosity. “I have always wanted to travel around the United States, and working for Lambda Chi Alpha has been a regular occurrence throughout my college career. I was curious enough to ask a few ELCs about the position and they were nice enough to answer my questions and encourage me. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity and I can’t wait to begin!”
When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said because he has lived and breathed Lambda Chi Alpha for the last five years, and sees great opportunity in continuing to be an active part of the organization that helped make him who he is today. Patrick said, “I also truly enjoy helping students in their collegiate experience, and have had a great time being a mentor to my current chapter, and hope to do the same for all the chapters that I will encounter.” He also hopes this experience will help him in his future endeavors of working in higher education at the collegiate level.
Justin Fisher
Justin Fisher is an adoptee from South Korea who was raised in Westminster, MD; a small town 40 minutes northwest of Baltimore. He went to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and graduated in 2010 with a B.S. in Marketing. He joined Lambda Chi Alpha’s Phi Theta Zeta in the spring of www.crossandcrescent.com
Initiate Survey (80% - 99% participation) * Kettering - A (Lambda-Epsilon A) * Missouri S&T (Alpha-Delta) * Simpson (Theta-Lambda) * Valparaiso (Iota-Sigma) * Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)
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Cross & Crescent
June 2010
FEATURE
RE G I ST E R N OW
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