SUMMER 2022
BETA ETA
PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY
FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY BETA ETA ALUMNI CHAPTER
Remembering Chuck Cutajar An excerpt from Chuck's obituary: Charles “Chuck” Robert Cutajar passed on to his eternal rest Saturday, December 11, 2021, in Tallahassee, FL surrounded by his family. Long time Tallahassee resident Chuck was born August 20, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan to Carmelo and Teresina Cutajar. He lived with his beloved mother and sisters, Mary and Rose.
Chuck Cutajar, one of the most loved and well-known Beta Eta brothers, joined the Chapter Eternal on December 11, 2021. He was a Beta Eta legend and was truly a multigenerational brother known by all who joined our Chapter. Chuck's love, dedication and commitment to Beta Eta will leave a void, but his spirit, laugh and infectious smile will be in our hearts and minds for our remaining years. Chuck was the very first recipient of the “Mr. Beta Eta” award and there was absolutely no question he deserved this honor. He was a mainstay of the Beta Eta Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi and will be greatly missed.
He attended St. Theresa Catholic High School while growing up in Detroit. He attended Florida State University and received his BS in Baking Sciences. While at FSU he served as a member of the Men's Judiciary, President of the Newman Club, President of the Bakers' Club, selected for Gold Key and Alpha Kappa Psi Honorary and named the “Most Outstanding Newman Club President in the Southeast”. He joined Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and met his lifelong Pi Kappa Phi brothers. He served as Pi Kappa Phi Pledge Class President and Chairman of the Standards Committee. Upon graduation he returned to Detroit where he began working for Hostess Cakes then changing jobs to Chrysler where he worked for three years as an industrial engineer. Realizing his advancement abilities were limited he accepted a position at the National Bank of Detroit. He was employed for over 12 years at the bank where he advanced to the position of Vice President of the Trust Division and earning his master's degree from University of Detroit Mercy. Following his longtime dream to return to Tallahassee and his Alma Mater, Florida State University, he relocated his family to Tallahassee in 1981. His first business venture in Tallahassee was a fencing business, which he jointly ran with a fraternity brother. He went on to independently open several successful businesses including Capital Awning Company, Capital Chem Dry, Capital Quality Services and a tax preparation service. continued page 2
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BETA ETA
Beta Eta Alumni Chapter, Inc. P.O. Box 11244 Tallahassee, FL 32302-3244 www.BetaEta.com fsupikappalumni@yahoo.com The Beta Eta Data is published by the Beta Eta Alumni Chapter, Inc. Please submit questions, comments and corrections to Katie Baker at bakeraddesign@carolina.rr.com
NOTES NAMES | The number after each name in this newsletter represents the year of initiation. NEED TO FIND A BROTHER? The BHAC would like you to stay connected with fellow Beta Eta brothers. Email us at fsupikappalumni@yahoo.com to request contact informtion for alumni you would like to contact. PUBLISHING NOTICE The BETA ETA DATA is typically published one to two times a year by a volunteer team. CHAPTER ETERNAL The following brothers were reported to the National Fraternity as having passed to the Chapter Eternal since the last publication. Mr. William Wesley Branning '56 1/1/2020 Mr. Geoffrey William Everhart '61 8/24/2021 Mr. Johnny Walker Guy '61 5/6/2020 Mr. Wallace Winfred Malphrus '61 9/16/2021 Mr. Truman Clarence Troutner, Jr. '61 6/21/2021 Mr. Charles Robert Cutajar '62 12/11/2021 Mr. George Henry Sheldon '69 8/23/2018 Mr. Matthew William Waters '74 10/29/2020 Mr. Douglas Carson Willix '94 1/1/2021
Ready to join or renew your dues? Dues are only $35 per year and are vital to the success of your alumni chapter. Go to betaeta.com and click Membership. 2 www.BetaEta.com
He devoted much of his time and efforts to Pi Kappa Phi fraternity as an alumnus especially the FSU chapter, Beta Eta. He received the first “Mr. Beta Eta Award” for demonstrating “considerable and sustained service toward the promotion and advancement of the chapter.” He was also awarded the National Council of Pi Kappa Phi “Merit Citation” which recognizes one alumnus every two years among all living members for exceptionally meritorious service. Much of his free time was also spent with his “local” friends at Blue Mountain Beach considering this his home as well. Among his many passions was Florida State University football. He never missed a Florida State home football game where he organized and enjoyed lively tailgate parties. He enjoyed investing in the stock market, dining at Azu and Corner Pocket, playing golf, traveling to FSU bowl games, singing fraternity songs, talking politics, spending time with family and friends, and donating to numerous charities. He treasured his family, friends, and Catholic faith. He always glowed when he spoke of his sisters Mary and Rose, his daughters Cheryl and Christie, their husbands Jerry and Chris and his ten grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters Cheryl Latimer (Jerry) and Christie Stavres (Christopher), grandchildren Hayden Stavres (Shelby), Jacob Stavres, Jordan Latimer, Charles Latimer, Mary Terese Stavres, Peyton Latimer, Corey Stavres, Silas Latimer, Blaise Latimer and Anthony Stavres; nephew Chris Siegle; longtime best friend Nancy Johnson; numerous nieces and nephews, countless beloved Pi Kappa Phi fraternity brothers and many other dear friends. www.bevisfh.com/obituaries/Charles-Chuck-Cutajar/#!/Obituary
Some notable memories and quotes from Beta Eta brothers... Chuck MacMillin '66, “Mr. Beta Eta, my Pledge Brother, devout Catholic, Tailgate Champion and my BEST Friend. I met “Chucker” in September of 1961 (60 years ago!) when we were Pledge Brothers together at FSU. That began a friendship that brought me back to FSU for football games every Fall for decades. Although I am not Catholic, I attended Mass with Chuck every Sunday, both in Tallahassee and Blue Mt. Beach. Chuck did more than just tithe. He always brought canned goods for the food pantry and clothing for those in need (he would go to the mall at the end of each season and purchase new clothing to give to those in need). Chuck and I would get together at least 3 times a year for football bowl games across the country; a cold beer at Blue Mt. Beach and for 18 straight years a New Year's Eve celebration in at least 12 different cities (some locations twice) from Florida to California. Chuck always provided his car for the local trips, and we flew to locations outside of Florida. Chucker was the epitome of fraternal brotherhood; generous, caring, pious, honest and loyal. I think about him just about every day and will miss him for the rest of my life. God Bless my friend!” Jeff Wahlen AE '81, “I can't think of anyone who modeled life-long brotherhood and love for Pi Kappa Phi better than Chuck. The example set by Chuck and others from the 60s and 70s helped me understand the meaning of our member oath and the importance of volunteers to the success of our Fraternity.”
Scott Middlebrooks '93, “What Chuck was really known for is the humor to turn a quick phrase or joke. He was up to date on most everything and had an opinion on most everything. He'd make you smile no matter what the situation was. He was just simply a genuine guy who loved this organization and kept up the brotherhood spirit and traditions. In a few words, Chuck had loyalty, brutal honesty and a dash of comedy on how life or management should work. He was refreshing, kind, savvy and infectious. Chuck was a pillar for Beta Eta and I am privileged to have known him.” C. Brad Middleton '09, “Chuck is forever ingrained in the memories of the re-founding fathers. Chuck gave an impassioned speech, littered with old stories, at the chartering banquet with his tie flopped over his shoulder. You could just feel his passion, energy and love for the Fraternity that night. His speech is still talked about amongst the refounding fathers today.”
BetaEta.com
Beta Eta Website Update Completed Sco Middlebrooks
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Last year COVID still brought hurdles to many things in everyday life, such as our football season, daily social distancing and local business commerce to name a few. In response, the Alumni Chapter held a Zoom social with about 20 people in attendance, and I believe this is a good medium to complement our in-person gatherings. Luckily, this year it looks like we're returning to normal and have considerably less restrictions than last year. Therefore, I expect this year we'll see more FSU sports gatherings, local Alumni Chapter socials and a return to life in general. While much remains to be seen with our country's economic future, I am optimistic and hope we do not see prolonged impacts in our everyday lives. Last year FSU recognized a new president, Richard McCullough. As we near a recolonization application for the Student Chapter in 2025, we are hopeful the change in the administration will be positive for Beta Eta. Given the extensive rechartering and recolonization process, we will need all the help and support we can get. I have an exciting announcement on a long awaited Alumni Chapter project. We finished the betaeta.com website refresh! This will not only be a tool as an organizational portal, but also a research and marketing tool for the recolonization and future recruitment process. The new site will help legitimize individual or parental research into our group. Many thanks to Ben Hurley for leading this project to completion. Finally, this year the 57th Supreme Chapter will take place in Tampa, Florida, from Thursday, July 28, to Sunday, July 31 at JW Mariott in downtown Tampa. If you live in within travel distance, we would like to get a large showing at this event to show the National Office that we've still got it. We are the same Beta Eta that we've been for the last 71 years. Please see the article in this edition of the BH Data for more information on that gathering. I hope to see you there!
The original website of the Beta Eta Alumni Chapter was created in conjunction with the founding of the Alumni Chapter in 2006. In recent years, the site had become dated in terms of functionality, appearance and usability thereby prompting a revamp of the site. Through work with various contracting companies and individual contributors, we are happy to report the project has been completed and the new betaeta.com is up and running! Along with a modern look and feel, the upgraded site allows for easier updates across the board, especially for pictures, member updates, awards and newsletters. Past Beta Eta Data issues can be viewed easily on web or mobile via PDF reader as the site is now mobile-friendly. All site information is currently being refreshed so continue to check the site for updated material. Also, the Alumni Chapter is in process of securing high-resolution prints of composites dating back approximately 20 years. These composites are being purchased by the Alumni Chapter and will be made available on betaeta.com soon. The new website also provides for a simple and secure process to set up a recurring (or one-time) Alumni Chapter dues payment via PayPal ($35 per year). Payment can be made via PayPal OR debit/credit card. Please see the “Membership” tab and follow the prompts. Again, this is a simple and secure process. Our ongoing goal for the website is to provide a tool for our vast alumni network to help stay connected with Beta Eta. Also, in looking forward to a recolonization of the student chapter, we believe the updated website will play an important role in viewing our Beta Eta history and to demonstrate our success in alumni engagement. Take a look at betaeta.com and we welcome your feedback!
To close, I would like to remind you that we are fortunate to have hundreds of alumni like you who care deeply about our fraternity, having found real value in their lifelong affiliation with Pi Kappa Phi. As important, they wish to see it sustained for future generations. Please take a moment and renew your membership in the Beta Eta Alumni Chapter today! Your contribution provides the needed resources to help achieve our mission. You can do this on the new web site, through a PayPal link, or wait for our annual mailer. Thank you for your continued support. Your Brother, Scott Middlebrooks Beta Eta Alumni Chapter President
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SPOTLIGHT surprise that our focus is on microbiology. If you remember from Bio 101 in that massive auditorium, microbes are bacteria, viruses, fungi; some good, lots benign and some are pretty nasty. My title is Chief Operating Officer, which basically means I'm the guy who makes sure the place runs smoothly and efficiently while enabling the CEO to be the visionary leader that the Board of Directors selected to lead this esteemed 110-year-old organization. I report directly to the CEO and have 7 direct reports, under which align 70% of the staff and where we derive 88% of our operating revenue.
Jonathan Stevens ‘92 Jonathan, give us a little background on what you have been doing since your days as a Pi Kapp at FSU? In the three decades since pledging Pi Kapp's Beta Eta Chapter at FSU, I've taken both traditional and untraditional paths to my current role as Chief Operating Officer for the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). These include completing two advanced degrees, stints at the Centers for Disease Control and time at the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. Primarily, I've tried to be creative in selecting new and diverse challenges at each fork in the road. My first master's degree was in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. When I got to the point in my career when my focus was more on leading the team than doing the research, I chose to get a MBA from UNC rather than complete my Ph.D. at Hopkin's, like many of my peers. Professionally, I started out in the expected roles of research and public health analysis, but I've also taught public school, worked as a banking lobbyist, edited a book on global megatrends (while working for a German foundation) and took over a struggling DC social service non-profit. Some might look at my 30-year work history since college and wonder if I had trouble picking a career, but I see it as continuous curiosity and willingness to change direction when offered new and interesting opportunities. It wasn't a linear path, but I was hungry, ambitious, and constantly on the look-out for my next opportunity in my career. Can you share more detail on your current role with the American Society for Microbiology? From a life science perspective, what do you see as the biggest challenge(s) facing society today? ASM is the largest natural science society in the U.S., with over 30,000 members in academia, public, private and philanthropic industries. With a name like ours, it's no
Given your current field, along with your history and education in epidemiology, how has COVID impacted your current role? COVID affected me personally in ways similar to most in the US, but professionally it's meant the most intense 26 months of my life. Typically, 12–14-hour days, 6+ days a week were the norm, but I am very proud of the work we did on everything from testing, pathogen identification, genomic sequencing and vaccine development. My role at ASM, where I was named COO 9 months before the beginning of the pandemic, gave me a front row seat into our national and global response to a relatively novel pathogen. There is evidence that Corona viruses (in their many different forms) have been with us for most of human history. Some like the kind that cause the common cold evolved in ways that made them more of a nuisance. Others, like the subfamily of corona viruses responsible for MERS in 2012 and the SARS epidemic in 2003, evolved into pathogens responsible for many deaths and billions or trillions in lost economic activity. How about family life, where you live, any philanthropy or volunteer work? Currently I'm a single guy living in a sleek Mid-Century modern loft (which before recent renovations used to be a house of ill repute) in the trendy Shaw neighborhood of Northwest DC with a budding Instagram star cat named Isobel. She gets me more free swag than if I were dating a Kardashian. The Peacock network should write a sitcom pilot about us. When I'm not working (or booking cat food commercials), I am a competitive amateur MMA fighter, run triathlons, play rugby, travel and read nerdy economics and physics books for fun. Additionally, I do a lot of volunteer work primary focusing on preventing animal cruelty, increasing educational opportunities for ESL speakers and increasing community health care availability. I'm also dating a 6'1 former fitness model, turned finance bro, turned carpenter. continued page 5
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Jonathan Stevens Spotlight - continued from page 4
What did you enjoy most about your time as a Pi Kappa Phi undergrad? Any special memories you would like to share? I recently hired a new Executive Assistant and one of the reasons she stood out from the pack was her description of what she valued most about her sorority. This included the importance of scholarship, a fierce loyalty to her sisterhood and an overall sense of responsibility to the shared community. That's exactly the same sentiment I feel about my time at Beta Eta. Personally, I remember that the parties were amazing, the social life was incredible (Z-Pac worthy), and realize the memories and friendships are irreplaceable. What I took away was similar to my Executive Assistant, which was a sense of duty to my country, a drive to do better by my brother and a loyalty to the brotherhood which remains a big part of my life. Can you reflect on your successes and if can you tie those back to anything you may have learned or experienced at FSU and/or Pi Kappa Phi? Any suggestions or words of wisdom for brothers who may be early in the careers? We all know fraternities and sororities have gotten a bad rap lately; some of it deserved, but a lot of it is not. The core of the Greek life is brotherhood, scholarship, philanthropy, loyalty and community service. However, that gets obscured by a lot of the negative attention-grabbing headlines, but it's up to everyone in the Greek system to get more out of it than a hangover and to be a better representative than the stereo-
Beta Eta Housing Corpora on
typical “Animal House” brother. Overall, I learned so much during my time as a Pi Kapp such as diplomacy, negotiation and respect for diverse thought. Those things have helped get me to where I am today. Anything else you want to share or ask from your Beta Eta brothers? All that garbage about “figure out your life by junior year” -- forget it! My plan A is now my Plan H. I didn't follow a linear, pre-destined path to get here. For those of you who picked out your medical school while still in high school, good for you. That just wasn't me. At my age, I'm still learning and striving so who knows where I'll end up. But one thing I do know; I was never going to be the smartest guy in the room, but I was however, smart enough to be in the room. I can outwork everyone to keep my spot at the table but I'll also have to work smarter to get ahead. I suppose that's what I would recommend to anyone, especially my younger brothers. Go out and chase whatever dreams you have. Be realistic because some dreams pay better than others, and success in anything is a lot of hard work and sacrifice. It's up to you to figure out what you value most, and keep that as your start and lamp. It's up to you to figure out what you value most. Jonathan's contact email is phyjes@gmail.com. continue to explore acquiring the Furlong property. This property would give us access from West College Avenue to West Jefferson Street and provide some exciting options if/when we choose to rebuild!
UPDATE
Summer 2022 marks the 3rd year for Alpha Delta Phi (ADPhi) living in the House. They continue to be ideal tenants and remain in good standing with the Housing Corporation and the University. We structured a 5-year lease with ADPhi beginning August 2019 and ending July 2024. Since we cannot apply to recolonize until the summer of 2025, we included an optional 12 year renewal if mutually agreed upon. This leaves our options open regarding the House and any remodel or rebuild we choose to do once we re-colonize.
We will keep you apprised of the main asset we value as a group. If you have additional questions or are interested in volunteering with the BHHC, please contact Chris Anderson at chris@thunderbeachproductions.com or (850) 556-3443. Chris Anderson Beta Eta Housing Corporation President
BHHC is in good financial standing. The total debt that remains on the House is just over $57,000 and based on the payment schedule should be paid off in July 2023. The scheduled maintenance & repairs this year include fixing the tile floor in the kitchen, replacing several of the individual water heaters and refinishing the side deck. We are not currently planning any large capital projects, but we will 5
Jake Henderson to Succeed Mark Timmes as CEO of Pi Kappa Phi
After an extensive search, the National Council of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and its affiliate boards of directors have hired Jake Henderson as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Fraternity, the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation, Pi Kappa Phi Properties and The Ability Experience. Prior to re-joining Pi Kappa Phi in April '22, Henderson has specialized in insurance, financial products and association management at Association Member Benefit Advisors (AMBA) for 13 years. Most recently, he held the role of Senior Regional Vice President where he managed the operations, sales force and business development of the company's portfolio in nine states. Henderson previously worked on Pi Kappa Phi's staff in roles centered around expansion and with Pi Kappa Phi Properties. Henderson joined Pi Kappa Phi's Beta Theta Chapter at the University of Arizona where he led as Archon, Vice Archon, Warden and Philanthropy Chairman. As an alumnus, Henderson has served as Chapter Advisor, Alumni Housing Corporation President and Chairman of the national expansion committee. Most recently, he launched the Chevron program, which has expanded to more than 20 chapters. Jeff Wahlen served on the CEO search committee and comments, “Jake brings a wealth of experience as a successful businessman, a former national staff member and a dedicated volunteer. We had several strong candidates to succeed Mark Timmes, but Jake rose to the top.” Henderson will focus on developing overarching strategic direction and resource development as the leader of Pi Kappa Phi. This singular vision will allow for greater synergy and alignment between all entities of the Greater Fraternity. Henderson succeeds Mark E. Timmes as CEO. Timmes's tenure began in 1994 as Executive Director of Pi Kappa Phi and its affiliates. Under his leadership, the Fraternity has grown from 4,800 student members in 132 collegiate chapters to 9,400 students in 162 collegiate chapters. Additionally, Timmes has led three high-impact capital campaigns to grow the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation's assets from $2.5 million to $14.5 million. He has guided the growth of Pi Kappa Phi Properties to a portfolio of 24 facilities while creating the Housing Infrastructure Fund to support collegiate chapters. Timmes leaves a legacy of interfraternal leadership culminating in his receipt of North American Interfraternity Conference's Gold Medal, the highest individual honor that can be awarded to an individual fraternity or sorority member. Timmes will officially pass the reigns to Henderson at the 57th Supreme Chapter to be held in Tampa on July 28 – 31, 2022.
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BETA ETA EVENTS PLANNED FOR UPCOMING 57TH SUPREME CHAPTER IN TAMPA
The 57th Supreme Chapter will be held on July 28-31, 2022, in Tampa, Florida Given the Florida location, Beta Eta will be sponsoring social activities for Beta Eta brothers and will provide an opportunity to reignite the fire of brotherhood during a weekend of events and fun activities for brothers and their guests. The social events are as follows... please note the RSVP instructions listed below:
Friday Beta Eta Happy Hour Friday, July 29th at 5pm
Tampa Bay Brewing Company (YBOR) 1600 E 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Trolly from Downtown Marriott to YBOR For those staying in the hotel meet in the lobby. (JW Marriott) at 5:30 pm Friday night to catch the Trolly to YBOR. www.tbbc.beer
Saturday Beta Eta Happy Hour Recognizing Jeff Wahlen Saturday, July 30th at 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm JW Marriott Meeting Room (TBD) 510 Water Street, Tampa, FL 33602
www.sixtampa.com (Followed by Supreme Chapter reception and banquet dinner 6:00-9:00 pm) **(Dinner requires Supreme Chapter registration)
J. Jeffrey Wahlen Named Mr. Pi Kappa Phi Pi Kappa Phi has named J. Jeffry Wahlen, Alpha Epsilon (Florida), as Mr. Pi Kappa Phi 2022. Jeff will be recognized at the upcoming 57th Supreme Chapter in Tampa, Florida. Jeff has displayed a lifetime of service to Pi Kappa Phi. As an undergraduate, he was initiated into Alpha Epsilon Chapter and transferred to Florida State in 1982. He became a re-founding father of the Beta Eta Chapter and later served as Beta Eta Archon. He received the Student of the Year award in 1985. As an alumnus, Jeff continued his service as a founding member of the Beta Eta Alumni Chapter and President of the Beta Eta Housing Corporation. On a national level, he served as Area Governor before beginning his service on the National Council, which culminated in a term as National President from 2008 to 2010. Jeff has also served on numerous committees, most notably the CEO search committee, the Centennial Commission steering committee and the Second Century Vision strategic planning committee. Jeff served on The Ability Experience board of directors from 2012 to 2021, and he has supported the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation as a member of the Nu Phi Society since 2002. This exceptional brother has been instrumental in the overall success of the Greater Fraternity. Jeff has also played a very important role in the history of the Beta Eta Chapter. We hope you will consider attending the upcoming Supreme Chapter to celebrate with Jeff on this outstanding accomplishment. Excerpts from the following article: pikapp.org/wahlen-mr-pi-kappa-phi/ 7
Meet Your Alumni Chapter Board Scott Middlebrooks '93 Scott is on the corporate finance team for the Mosaic Company which manufactures various types of fertilizer. He lives in Tampa and enjoys scalloping, fishing and softball with his daughter. Scott serves and the President of the Alumni Chapter. Reach out to him at Scmiddlebrooks@gmail.com.
Jim Scarboro '82 Jim recently retired after a long career in banking. He lives in Tallahassee and enjoys saltwater fishing, travel and hanging out with his grand dogs. He is currently the Vice-President for the Alumni Chapter. Jim's contact email is jscar2893@gmail.com.
Michael Gaudio '95 Michael works in finance/wealth management and lives in Lake Mary, Florida. He is active in his local community and enjoys spending time with his three children, ages 19, 13 and 12. He is the Treasurer for our Alumni Chapter and can reached at LinkedIn and michaelgaudio@gmail.com
Casey Squires '10 Casey works in sales for a medical device firm and currently lives in Tampa. He is expecting his first child, a son, to be born this August. Casey is currently serving as the Social Chair for the Alumni Chapter. Connect with Casey at csquires1531@gmail.com.
C. Brad Middleton '09 Brad lives in Tallahassee and works for in the operations area for a local bank. He previously worked for the National Fraternity for several years after graduation. Contact Brad at Cbrad.middleton@yahoo.com.
Ben Hurley '14 Ben lives in New York City and works as a software engineer for a start-up company in the health food industry. He specializes in working on websites and has been very involved in the recent update to the Beta Eta website. Ben is an avid golfer and reach out to him at benjaminhurley3@gmail.com. 8
BETA ETA ALUMNI UPDATES Malcolm PARKER '64 Malcolm pledged Beta Eta in January of 1964. It was that same spring when he met his "Rose Queen," Far, during his first Fraternity Weekend (actually, she had a date with another brother, Randy Plotts '64). The two got married in December of 1965 and are still together 55 years (and counting)!!! They have three children and seven grandchildren.
Don STEINER '67 After graduating from FSU, Don served his country in Vietnam. Upon returning stateside, he married his college sweetheart, Aggie Smith (Alpha Chi Omega and Pi Kapp Little Sister) in 1970. The two of them lived in Atlanta for 45 years before moving to The Villages, FL. In 1999, Don sold his food businesses and decided to retire. Aggie retired from Lucent Technologies (AT&T) in 2001.
After graduating in 1965 with a degree in criminology, Malcolm became a Special Agent with the Office of Naval Intelligence (now NCIS) in June of 1965. He later transferred to the Department of Defense in December of 1980 and retired from fulltime government service in 1993, as a Special Agent in Charge. In 1994, he became a Special Contract Investigator (part-time), for the CIA, and then retired from that in December of 2020. Throughout his service, the Parkers have lived in Birmingham, AL; Charleston, SC; Gaeta, Italy; Philadelphia/New Jersey; and now back in his hometown of Pensacola, FL. His work and travels have allowed him to visit 21 foreign countries, including Russia and China (yes, he does have some stories). Malcolm credits his time with Beta Eta for starting his incredible life, full of journeys and abundant memories. He still misses the comradery and friendship of the brotherhood. He's run into several Pi Kapp brothers along the way, and the comradery is immediate. Malcolm would like to hear from any of his brothers that are still around. macandfarparker@gmail.com
Two fond memories of Beta Eta for Don were the fantastic parties on the quad and watching Jimmy Meyers (RIP) shoot water balloons at unsuspecting targets next to Westcott Fountain. Don keeps in touch with Frank Borzen ('66), who lives 9 houses down, and with Paul Nichols ('64), Don Chao ('65), Frank Costanza ('67), Tom Jarrett ('67), and Bill Cray ('67) by email. He would like to hear from Don Stroub ('67) and John Flynt ('67, brother music). n1nole@bellsouth.net Kevin SMITH '87 Born and raised and still residing in Tallahassee, FL, Kevin teaches physical education at J. Michael Conley Elementary School at Southwood. His son, pictured above is a Pi Kapp at Florida Southern. coachkev568@gmail.com charleswilson@mac.com R. Clarke COOPER '90 Upon the completion of his appointed term as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs (2019-2021), Brother Cooper was recognized in 2021 by the Department of State with the Superior Honor Award. The accompanying narrative for this national decoration noted the following contribution to diplomacy, stability, and prosperity: “In recognition of your extraordinary effort in supporting the success of the Abraham Accords, an historic achievement that presents a once-in-ageneration opportunity to positively transform the continued page 10
David WISNIEWSKI '88 Dave is a corporate transactional and life sciences attorney living in Roswell, Georgia. Recently, his son became a freshman at the University of Georgia. Below, Dave shares a throwback photo (circa Spring '89) of when Tommy Desjardin '87 bought a "convertible" on his credit card for $400. Neal Thomson '87 and "Fast Eddy" pictured above. dave939913@gmail.com 9
Beta Eta Alumni Chapter P.O. Box 11244 Tallahassee, FL 32302-3244
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region's strategic landscape. You demonstrated the highest professional standards in conducting rigorous analysis to significantly advance security cooperation with the United Arab Emirates and Morocco consistent with America's longstanding commitment to regional security. Your tireless efforts serve to directly increase stability and prosperity in the Middle East.”
Subsequent his recent senior diplomatic service, in spring 2021 Brother Cooper founded a defense trade and sustainable development consultancy, Guard Hill House, LLC, and accepted private sector positions as a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and as the International Affairs Advisor for the Hellenic Group. When not on global travel, Brother Cooper, his spouse Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Marin, and dog Oscar, enjoy welcoming guests at their 200-year-old home, Guard Hill House. The unique location of Guard Hill House, on a promontory overlooking the north fork of the Shenandoah River, was the site of significant artillery exchanges during the Civil War. When Brother Cooper served as Assistant Secretary of State, Guard Hill House served as an official U.S. Department of State residence and was host to diplomatic and national security activities.
REMEMBER
Chuck MacMillin, Chuck Cutajar and Paul Nichols enjoying time together at a Fall '19 social gathering.