june 2011 cross and crescent

June 2011 . Issue 05

Cross & Crescent June 2011www.crossandcrescent.com

Cross & Crescent a Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity publication

CONTRIBUTIONS

Content for consideration should be submitted by the 25th of the month (except Dec./Aug.).

Lambda Chi Alpha8741 Founders Rd.Indianapolis, IN 46268-1338(317) 872-8000editor@lambdachi.orgwww.lambdachi.orgwww.crossandcrescent.com

CREDITS

Publisher: Bill FarkasEditor-in-Chief: Tad LichtenauerAsst Editors,Graphic Design: Thomas Roberts Salvador Lievanos Photographer: Walt MoserResearch: Jon WilliamsonHistorian: Mike RaymondEditors: Jono Hren Bob McLaughlin

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Chapter NewsChapter News, Alumni News,

and Omegas

Fraternity NewsNew ELCs and IHQ Staff

Updates

Fraternity NewsModeling the Way

TRUE BrotherHeroic Rescue

12A FATHER & SON LEGACY To celebrate Father’s Day, a father and son share their story about having the special bond of brotherhood. The father is Matt Rose (Missouri 1980), a Gamma-Kappa alumni brother and the CEO and chairman of BNSF Railway. His son is Phil Rose (Texas Christian 2011), the former Iota-Pi chapter president and a 2011 graduate from Texas Christian University.By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)

15A MASTER OF SURF, TACOS & VIBEWing G. Lam (San Diego State 1984), co-owner of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, talks about his time in Lambda Chi and how it helped him achieve success. With 50 locations, the Wahoo’s story begins in 1988, when three brothers, Wing, Ed and Mingo, combined their love of surf and food to create a restaurant with an eclectic Mexican/Brazilian/Asian menu and a Hawaiian north-shore vibe.By Thomas Roberts (Edinboro)

18CELEBRATING 95 YEARS AT GEORGIAIn this, our final chapter feature of the academic year, we go to Athens, Georgia, home of the Bulldogs of the University of Georgia.ByJon Williamson (Maryland)

a lifetime of true brotherhood

Copyright © 2011 Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. All rights reserved.


Chapter NewsChapter news, alumni news, and reports of death

Chapter News

Akron (Gamma-Alpha)This summer the chapter will hold an officer retreat, Family Day, and Chi Games. The chapter is sending eight brothers to the 2011 Stead Leadership Seminar, including the chapter president, vice president, fraternity educator, social chairman, and TRUE Brother steward. Chapter brothers were elected president to the following organizations: Akron Advertising Federation, Order of Omega, Gamma Sigma Alpha, and Zips Programming Network. The chapter raised more than $2,000 for the 39th Annual Bathtub Pull donating all of the proceeds to the Akron Rotary Club that helps special-needs children go to camp.

Angelo State (Beta-Alpha)The chapter finished first in the 2011 Greek Week competition. The chapter won the IFC sports competition.

Arkansas (Gamma-Chi)The chapter is undergoing a major fundraising effort to provide extensive improvements to the house. The Walton alumni brothers (S. Robson Walton and Jim C. Walton) are matching the fundraising effort up to $1 million.

Auburn (Omega)Dr. Jim Vickrey (1964), professor of speech communication at Troy University’s Montgomery Campus, has been honored

twice by professional groups during the past month for his career-long support of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, particularly its Freedom of Speech Clause, which some experts consider to be the linchpin of the entire Bill of Rights. Before he came to Troy in 1991, he practiced law in Montgomery. Prior to that, he served as president of the University of Montevallo, Montevallo, Alabama, from 1977-88.

Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for six new members on April 16, 2011. The chapter collected 27,783 pounds of food this semester for the Peoria Food Bank on behalf of the North American Food Drive. For the spring semester, the chapter completed 480 philanthropy hours, more than any other fraternity on campus. The chapter also performed 388 hours of community service, finishing second amongst fraternities, and fourth amongst all Greek organizations.

Brown (Iota)A World War II veteran, Bill Flanagan (http://darien.patch.com/articles/bill-flanagan-named-grand-marshal-of-memorial-day-parade) served as the grand marshal for the Memorial Day Parade in Darien, Connecticut. After a successful career as an attorney, he then served Darien on the Planning and Zoning Commission, including two years as its chairman. He also served on the Monuments and Ceremonies Commission. He has been very active in the Darien Senior Men’s Association and served as its president 2000-2001.

Butler (Alpha-Alpha)Tim Queisser (http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011105060343) (1977), owner of the Snooty Fix restaurant in Indianapolis, was featured in a recent episode of the Food Network program Restaurant: Impossible. The show entails having celebrity chef Robert Irvine spend two days and $10,000 to make-over a struggling restaurant.


Chapter News

California-Los Angeles (Epsilon-Sigma)The colony brothers received their new charter on April 16, 2011.

Cal Poly (Phi-Sigma)On May 7, 2011, chapter brothers assisted the San Luis Obispo Special Olympics at Cuesta College by providing support and encouragement to the athletes. In some cases, the brothers ran beside the participants, helping them to finish. After the event, the brothers helped with the cleanup.

Cal State-Northridge (Beta-Rho)Jonathan Bonilla and Neil Sanchez were inducted into the Order of Omega honor society, recognizing their outstanding academic excellence and campus leadership. The chapter received awards for Recruitment and New Member Programming and Campus Involvement. In addition, University Adviser Christopher Aston received Fraternity Adviser of the Year Award.

Central Michigan (Lambda-Omega)Chapter brothers won the floor hockey championship, their third intramural championship this academic year. The other two events were flag football and softball. At the Chicago Alumni Reception, more than 47 alumni brothers attended the networking session and reception held on May 4, 2011, at the University Club of Chicago. Executive Vice President

Emeritus George Spasyk (Michigan 1949) served as the keynote speaker and reflected on the Fraternity’s history, specifically recounting several memories of how the undergraduate experience has changed, and how Lambda Chi Alpha has proven to be a leader in the Greek movement. Fraternity Board Treasurer Gregg Behrens (Iowa State 1974) also spoke; providing an educational overview of Lambda Chi Alpha today and presenting Lambda Chi Alpha’s strategic plan.

Colorado (Gamma-Mu)An alumni brother reunion dinner will be held on September 30, 2011. Additional plans are to attend the Colorado vs. Washington State football game on October 1, 2011. For more information, please contact Paul Moore at [email protected].

Cornell (Omicron)Michael Buckler (http://www.frommicrosofttomalawi.com/) (1996) has written a book, “From Microsoft to Malawi: Learning on the Front Lines as a Peace Corps Volunteer.” In late 2006, after working as a patent litigator in Portland, Oregon, primarily for Microsoft, Buckler left his law firm to become a Peace Corps volunteer in rural Malawi. The book is a college fundraiser for the three students he lived with. Each has passed the college entrance examination but none has the resources to attend. Today, Buckler lives in Washington, DC, and works for the National Park Service.

Denison (Gamma-Iota)Chapter brothers participated in Pi Beta Phi’s event, Pi Phi Palooza, to raise money for First Book, an organization that helps underprivileged children learn to read. Chapter brothers participated in Kappa Sigma’s dance-a-thon to raise money for Military Heroes. Chapter brothers participated in Beta Theta Pi’s event, King of the Wing, a wing eating contest to raise money for the local Center for Disability Services. Chapter brothers participated in Kappa Alpha Theta’s annual softball tournament to raise money for Court Appointed Special Advocates.


Chapter News

Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa Colony)The colony held its annual meeting, and voting results can be found on the chapter website (http://www.ekzalumni.com/). The undergraduate brothers would like to thank all the alumni brothers who attended the meeting to discuss the current state and future of the colony as well as those who took the time to submit absentee ballots. Improving significantly from last year, the colony placed fourth out of 11 fraternities in the 2011 Greek Week competition. Ryan Pratt will serve on this summer’s International Ritual Team. The colony earned two awards from the Fraternity and Sorority Life: Brotherhood and Service to the Community. John J. Bacica (http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tcpalm/obituary.aspx?n=john-j-bacica&pid=138703987&fhid=10592) (1950) died January 12, 2010. Prior to retirement he was a sales engineer for Gates Rubber Co. in Peoria, Illinois, and York, Pennsylvania, for 23 years. A former chapter president, Bacica served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Harry J. Gorman (http://hosting-tributes-1611.tributes.com/show/Harry-Gorman-88808462) (1948) of Hockessin, DE, formerly of Wilmington, died June 23, 2010. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later went to work with Delaware Power and Light before joining the DuPont Co. in the Purchasing Department. He retired as director of materials and logistics purchasing after 38 years with DuPont.

Drury (Theta-Sigma)Dr. Eltjen Flikkema (http://newsroom.drury.edu/dunews/index.php/2011/05/06/a-long-time-drury-professor-says-auf-wiedersehen-after-nearly-four-decades/), professor of German at Drury University for almost 40 years, has retired. After earning his Ph.D. at Michigan State, Flikkema joined Drury’s faculty in 1972, expecting to stay for one year as a professor of German. He soon found that Drury suited him well. He has held several positions, including: director of admission, assistant dean, and chair of the Languages Department. He also was the first director of the Drury Honors Program.

Eastern Illinois (Phi-Alpha)John D. Schmitt, CFRE, (1976) was made president-elect of the Chicago chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The Chicago chapter is the largest chapter in the United States with more than 1,000 members. Schmitt’s term as president will begin in January 2012.

Eastern Michigan (Sigma-Kappa)Eighty-seven alumni brothers attended the 34th Annual Canoe Trip on the Rifle River in Sterling, Michigan. The brotherhood event also included a golf tournament and alumni meeting where alumni association officer elections were held.

Edinboro (Beta-Delta)Frank S. Purrachio (1982) has established the Frank “Pizza” Purrachio Lambda Chi Alpha Scholarship. A member of the chapter’s Alumni Advisory Board, he ensures that the chapter provides experiences to complement higher education by providing young men with opportunities for academic achievement, leadership development, and lifelong friendships. The photo shows Purrachio, Edinboro President Jeremy D. Brown, Chris Vizzini (2011), Josh Bow (2010), Paul Wilson, and current chapter President Alex Burdis.

Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta)On April 30, 2011, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplifcation for James Critchfield Jr., the son of alumni brother James Critchfield Sr., and grandson of alumni brother Clint Eugene Critchfield. Critchfield, Sr. attended his son’s Initiation and then celebrated with all the brothers. Brothers Eric Lodewyck and Chris Puenner also were initiated. Jacob Meding was elected SGA president, which is the third time in nine years a Lambda Chi has held the office. Succeeding Romison Saint-Louis, Mark Weeden was named president of Habitat for Humanity, one of the largest student organizations on campus. Saint-Louis also received the Founder’s Award for excellence in academic


Chapter News

achievement and significant contributions to campus life and the Elmhurst community. This is the highest award available to any Elmhurst College student. Succeeding Chris Kichka, Ryan Lauth was elected IFC president. John Campolo and Chris Kichka were inducted into the Order of Omega. Campolo was also asked to join the business honorary Delta Mu Delta.

Florida (Epsilon-Mu)William E. Martin Jr. (http://www.bdcnetwork.com/winner-40/24136) (1996) was named to Building Design + Construction Magazine’s 40 Under 40 Award. He is an associate principal with SchenkelShultz Architecture in Orlando, Florida. He also serves as president of the Lambda Chi Alpha Central Florida Area Alumni Association.

Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi)The chapter reported the following results for officer elections: Alan Silva, president; Erik Silvola, vice president-internal; Brian Guerra, vice president-external; Stephen Bell, secretary; Dave Del Col, treasurer; Jared Goodwin, harm reduction, Eric Gallotto, fraternity educator; Alex Parsons, recruitment chairman; Mitch Varnum, ritualist; Cody Gonzalez, scholarship chairman; Scott Sandlin, social chairman; Mitch Meyer, alumni chairman; Evan Roberts, Inner Circle chairman.

Florida State (Zeta-Rho)Newsweek reviewed the book Seamless City (http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2011-05-10/the-seamless-city-by-rick-baker-americas-greatestmayor/?cid=topic:mainpromo2) written by former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker (1978). A former chapter president, Baker served as mayor for 10 years and was named America’s Mayor of the Year by Governing Magazine. Baker currently serves as a vice president at the University of South Florida.

Florida Tech (Beta-Nu)The chapter finished second in the Greek Week competition. Chapter President Matt Kepto won the overall MVP Award. The chapter held a fundraising auction to raise money for the Scott Autism Center on campus. Gammi Phi Beta sorority sisters auctioned dinners while the brothers auctioned three hours of labor. The auction raised more than $700. This summer, the chapter is embarking on an alumni contact campaign to re-engage alumni brothers and to prepare for next year’s 40th anniversary celebration.

Gettysburg College (Theta-Pi)The chapter held a Ritual Initiation Exemplification for seven new brothers.The chapter held its annual North American Food Drive philanthropy and raised more than 1,400 pounds of food and $600. Two chapter brothers were accepted into Order of Omega, the Greek honor society. The chapter is hosting an alumni reunion weekend from June 2-5, 2011, which will include an open house, a Housing Corporation meeting, and a barbeque. Please check the chapter website (http://www.gettysburg.edu/alumni/events_reunions/reunion_weekend.dot) for more information.

Incarnate Word (Pi-Epsilon)The chapter held its annual White Rose Gala, which included the installation of 12 new officers and a new chapter adviser, Alan Psencik.

Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon)Mark T. Angell (http://www.thebraziltimes.com/story/1725849.html) (1984) died May 8, 2011. He was president, CEO, and owner of Angell’s Food Centers in Linton and Sullivan, Indiana. Angell was past president of the Linton Rotary Club, was on the Greene County General Hospital Foundation Board of Directors, was the past president of Linton-Stockton Chamber of Commerce, and was active with the Freedom Festival Parade.

Iowa State (Alpha-Tau)A new chapter website (http://www.mylambdachi.com/) based on the WebGreek platform was launched in early May 2011. The new website is already seeing increased time per visit, and number of pages viewed, as the website visitors are presented with more content and improved navigation. Nearly 50 alumni brothers met at Iowa State University during the annual VEISHEA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VEISHEA)


Chapter News

celebration on April 16, 2011. The special event was a Toast and Roast of brother Gregg Behrens, who was appointed as the Fraternity Board’s treasurer. At the end of the evening, brother Jim Wignall presented a slideshow of events from the 1970s. Special thanks to Dave Drennan and Brian Breamer, who spent many hours putting together the program. This year’s recipient of the Gregg and Ann Behrens Endowed Scholarship was Andrew Nelson. Criteria for eligibility include academic performance, financial need, and contributions the recipient has made to leadership of the chapter and their own personal leadership development. Nelson has served as the harm reduction officer and currently serves as secretary. The photo shows Behrens, Nelson, and Steve Lubahn, the Housing Corporation president.

Kansas State (Gamma-Xi)The chapter held an Ritual Initiation Exemplification for three new brothers: Seamus Martin, Scott Lutz, and Lee Williams.

Kettering (Lambda-Epsilon A)A creative innovation by Brennan Hamilton (1990) has landed his GoPoint Technology (http://gopointtech.com/) company on Popular Mechanic’s elite Breakthrough Products list. The practical diagnostic device helps a driver gauge vehicle performance.

Kutztown (Sigma-Gamma)More than 70 alumni brothers attended the Alumni Banquet held in February 2011. In April 2011, the chapter held its annual Miss Kutztown Pageant, raising more than $1,000 for the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Chapter President Bryan McKinstry won the Emerging Greek Leader of the Year Award at the Greek Awards Ceremony.

Louisville (Zeta-Sigma)An Ritual Initiation Exemplification was held for the chapter’s two newest brothers: Erik Schout and Fahad Alhamwah. The chapter hosted its 2nd Annual U-Can Jam on April 30, 2011. The concert event collected canned goods for the North American Food Drive.

Louisiana State (Upsilon)The chapter earned a 2.96 GPA, above the all-men’s Greek average.

Lycoming (Iota-Beta)Billy Ray Chitwood’s new book is called “The Cracked Mirror, Reflections of an Appalachian Son (http://www.wix.com/brchitwood/thecrackedmirror)” and is available through Amazon.com.

Maryland (Epsilon-Pi)Paired with the women of Alpha Chi Omega sorority, the chapter placed third in the Greek Week competition. The chapter won the fraternity league basketball championship defeating Alpha Epsilon Pi.

Maryland-Baltimore County (Phi-Delta)On May 4, 2011, the chapter held a charity event to raise funds to support the Japanese earthquake relief. Chapter brothers participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, raising money through a car wash and poker tournament.


Chapter News

Massachusetts Institute of Tech (Lambda)Football player Brian Doyle was awarded the Hal Chalmers Award for being the highest-rated player academically.

Miami-OH (Zeta-Upsilon)The chapter earned a 3.22 GPA for the 2011 spring semester and a 3.19 GPA for the year. This placed the chapter second for the semester and third for the year out of the 30 fraternities on campus.

Michigan (Sigma)Stanley W. Attwood (1950) died September 18, 2010.

Charles A. Rymes (1951) died July 29, 2010.

Allan F. Schmalzriedt (1933) died August 21, 2010.

Dr. Dennis W. Shermeta (1961) died October 24, 2010.

Missouri (Gamma-Kappa)Paired with Alpha Delta Pi sorority, the chapter won the 2011 Greek Week competition. The chapter won the 2011 Division 1 Greek Sports, which consists of the top six fraternities on campus. Led by Nick Smith and Danny Forman, the chapter started Fraternities For Green Dot, a program to reduce instances of sexual violence within the community. It is intended to promote awareness and action by fraternity brothers towards keeping our community more safe. The chapter is working with a local university organization called the Rape and Sexual Violence Prevention Center.

New Hampshire (Alpha-Xi)On Friday April 30, 2011, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for five new brothers. Cy Lekyang (2011) earned the Award of Excellence at the university’s research conference, the largest of its kind in the United States.

New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha)Chapter brothers participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. On May 20, 2011, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for two new bothers: Chris Podany and Matthew Carmichael.

Nevada-Las Vegas (Delta-Lambda)The chapter participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, raising more than $300. The chapter won first place in the Greek Week competition. The chapter was voted Best Fraternity on Campus in the RebelYell, the university’s publication.

New Mexico State (Zeta-Gamma)Chris Frost (http:nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news25072/nmp-mortgage-professional-month-chris-frost-vice-president-and-business-development-manage), vice president and business development manager of Frost Mortgage Banking Group, is featured in the National Mortgage Professional Magazine. New York City Area Alumni Association More than 35 brothers attended a breakfast on May 10, 2011, at Alston & Byrd offices. The event was hosted by Fraternity Board Member Fletcher McElreath (Mercer 1987). Other notable attendees included the Educational Foundation Treasurer Brian Heckler (Shippensburg 1984), who served as the keynote speaker. Heckler spoke about the state of the Fraternity and the TRUE Brother Initiative, and how Lambda Chi Alpha inspired and shaped his current involvement. Associate Director of Alumni Relations Dan Hartmann (Truman 2007) announced the re-organization of the New York Area Alumni Association and asked all interested brothers to email him at [email protected].

North Carolina-Wilmington (Delta-Sigma)The chapter held a Ritual Initiation Exemplification for six new brothers.

Pennsylvania (Epsilon)Having one of the highest Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores in the country, Ari Huverserian was accepted into the Princeton Review MCAT instructor


Chapter News

program. In addition, he was selected into the Phi Beta Kappa Society, an elite academic honor society.

Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho)The chapter hosted its 25th Annual White Rose Pageant, benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cleveland County. The event raised $7,300, the second largest amount raised. Paired with the Chi Omega sorority, the chapter hosted Swishes for Wishes, a three-on-three basketball tournament benefiting the Make-A-Wish foundation. The event raised nearly $4,000. The chapter participated in The Big Event, a campus-wide day of community service.The chapter participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, a cause even more poignant as the chapter currently has two cancer survivors.

Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda)Chapter vice president Kevin Aguas won the 2011 Greek Man of the Year Award, marking the second year in a row a Lambda Chi has received this honor. Aguas has served as IFC president, where he created and hosted the first OSU Greek Leadership Summit, in addition to leading a Greek expansion program. He also contributes more than 1,000 volunteer hours in the Corvallis community as a mentor and tutor for students in the Lincoln Elementary School in Corvallis. The chapter was recognized as the 2011 Runner-up for Fraternity of the Year, placing second in a field of more than 20 fraternities. The chapter was cited for its 2010 Philanthropy of the Year event, Watermelon Bash, the largest fundraising event hosted by a fraternity. The chapter hosted its third annual Watermelon Bash raising more than $15,000 for the Community Outreach Center, which provides resources to homeless families. The four-day event was organized by chapter vice president Eric Hanslits and Event Chairman Nick Halberg. Delta Gamma repeated as the winning sorority and this year’s Crescent Girl was Taylor Surby, a member of Alpha Phi sorority. Philadelphia Area Alumni Association. More than 50 brothers attended a reception held on May 10, 2011, at the Union League of Philadelphia. Fraternity Board Chairman Drew Hunter (Denver 1984) served as the keynote speaker and provided an update about the Fraternity. Undergraduates and recent graduates from Philadelphia-area chapters attended the event and provided insights about today’s Lambda Chi Alpha.

Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi)The chapter held a Ritual Initiation Exemplification for five new brothers. The chapter earned second place in grades, beating the all-undergraduate GPA average. Thomas Roche (1984) was selected to serve on the International Ritual Team at this summer’s Stead Leadership Seminar at Iowa State University.

Purdue (Psi)Chapter brothers completed more than 35 hours of community service, beating the previous totals. Bernie Flowers (https://www.purduealumni.org/events/news/purdue-all-america-bernie-flowers-dies-at-age-81/) (1952) died April 14, 2011. He was a three-year football letter winner at Purdue from 1950 to 1952. He earned consensus All-America honors as a senior end after setting school records with 43 receptions for 603 yards and seven touchdowns. The Boilermakers were Big Ten Conference co-champions in 1952. He was inducted into the Purdue Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame in 2003. Flowers played professionally in the Canadian Football League -- earning All-Pro honors with the Ottawa Roughriders in 1953 -- and the National Football League with the Baltimore Colts in 1956. In between, he served in the military and was named to the All-Navy Sea Service teams in 1954 and 1955. Following his playing days, Flowers embarked on a career in life insurance in Lafayette.

Rensselaer Polytechnic (Epsilon-Eta)For the second year in a row, the chapter won the President’s Cup (Chapter of the Year Award) at the 2011 Greek Awards. In addition, the chapter won the Ritual Award and three brothers received individual awards. JP Trasatti was named the 2010 Greek Man of the Year, Stephen Provost was selected as the 2010 Executive Leader of the Year, and Brian Lewis received the Order of Omega Man of the Year Award.

Richmond (Alpha-Chi)Herbert L. “Sonny” Jeffords Jr. (http://www.thepostsearchlight.com/2011/05/17/h-l-jeffords-jr/) (1951) died May 15, 2011. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, founded Jeffords Insurance in 1951, and operated Jeffords Insurance and Realty until his retirement in 1992.


Rose-Hulman (Theta-Kappa)On May 9, 2011, Wesley Benner, William Bro, Timothy Burcham, Travis Clarkson, Jordan Eaker, Timothy Lane, Steven Procter and Derik Sikes underwent the Fraternity’s Graduation Ceremony, becoming alumni brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha.

South Carolina (Epsilon-Psi)The chapter held its 2011 Spring Brotherhood Retreat under the guidance of ELC Aaron Fieseler and Master Steward Jeromy Forshee.Christian Busch and David Corso will attend and represent the chapter at the 2011 Stead Leadership Seminar this summer at Iowa State University.

South Carolina-Aiken (Pi-Alpha)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for three new brothers: Eric Walker, Graeme Dawe, and Rico Cervantes. The chapter participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, winning the Spirit Award. At the 2011 Student Life Banquet, the chapter brothers won the New Student Leadership Award, Student Employee Award, and the Greek Member of the Year Award. Eight chapter brothers received Presidential Community Service Awards, while two of them reached the Gold Level with more than 250 hours of service. The Executive Committee of the Ducks Unlimited chapter on campus consists of chapter brothers. The group hosted its annual banquet raising more than $3,000.

Southern Indiana (Phi-Xi)The chapter earned a 2.87 GPA for the Spring 2011 semester, higher than the all-men’s average and ranking first out of eight fraternities on campus.Nathan Wehr was elected Order of Omega’s president and Mark Furman was elected vice president of records and finance.

St. Louis College of Pharmacy (Pi-Lambda)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for Richard Koentz, an honorary initiate and the father of brothers Chris and Nathan Koentz. Koentz has been very active in the chapter, hosting the annual brotherhood retreat at his farm in southern Illinois as well as building a new, lighted crescent used during the Initiation Ritual. The chapter participated in a spring food drive and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, collecting more than 1,000 pounds and raising $1,000 respectively for each cause. On May 3, 2011, the chapter hosted its Fifth Annual Watermelon Bash (http://www.fox2now.com/news/morningshow/timezell/ktvi-tims-travels-watermelon-eatingcontest-20110503,0,2453115.story), with proceeds benefiting the Arnold Food Pantry of St. Louis.

Southern Methodist (Gamma-Sigma)The chapter raised more than $2,000 at American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Brother Dennis Stanley was the featured speaker and an American Cancer Society Award recipient. Thirty chapter brothers volunteered at a Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano, Texas, as part of the work on behalf of the North American Food Drive. The chapter’s Annual Founders Day golf tournament and dinner was held on April 30, 2011.

Tarleton State (Phi-Rho)On April 29, 2011, the chapter was given the W.O. and Florene Trogdon Service Award at the university’s annual Leadership and Service Awards. The award was one of only two, given to organizations who demonstrate high levels of service to the

community. In April 2011, the chapter won the Greek championship in intramural softball and, earlier this semester, won the Greek championship in intramural basketball.Chapter President Anthony Linder was elected Junior Class Senator for the 2011-12 school year. He also was named Beau for the Delta Zeta sorority. The chapter held its annual Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament in April 2011. The scholarship is named after Levi Jones -- a member who died in a car accident in 2004

–- and is awarded annually to a deserving undergraduate brother. On April 15, 2011, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for two brothers.

Chapter News


Chapter News

Tennessee-Chattanooga (Zeta-Phi)The chapter hosted a barbeque fundraiser on April 29, 2011, raising $3,000 for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. One of undergraduate brothers in the chapter currently has this disease.

Texas (Alpha-Mu)Chapter brothers contributed 160 hours of community service, the majority of which was done in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity. The 16 brothers who participated found it a very rewarding experience. The chapter placed second in the Zeta Tau Alpha Salsa Cookoff. Joey Valenzuela made the award-winning salsa. The chapter would like to hear ideas or suggestions from alumni brothers. Please send an email to the Alumni Chairman Seth York at [email protected].

Texas A&M-Kingsville (Beta-Epsilon)On May 7, 2011, the chapter held its annual White Rose Formal.

Texas Christian (Iota-Pi)On April 17-27, 2011, the chapter hosted a food drive benefiting the Tarrant Area Food Bank. The event included a PB & J Face-off, where teams of campus Greek organizations collected either peanut butter or jelly. The teams collected 423 jars of peanut butter and 645 jars of jelly, which weighed more than 1,000 pounds. The photo shows chapter brothers Caten Hyde and Matt Speanburg presenting Bo Soderbergh and Susan Frye from the Tarrant Area Food Bank with a $330 donation check. On April 30, 2011, Chris Curtis (1983) was awarded the President’s Service Award at TCU’s Annual Alumni Awards Celebration. In January 2011, Curtis also was awarded the first

Innovation Impact Award from the NFL and the North Texas Small Business Alliance for embodying the characteristics of leadership, innovation, and social responsibility. The award was presented during Super Bowl week activities. Mark Istook (1998), a television host, reporter, and actor living in Los Angeles received the TCU Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.

Texas-El Paso (Zeta-Epsilon)Partnering with Alpha Xi Delta sorority and the Women’s Resource Center, the chapter organized an Easter egg hunt on the university campus for the children of El Paso. Activities included face painting, jumping dragons, bubble making, a dance-off, and of course the giant Easter egg hunt.


Texas-San Antonio (Phi-Upsilon)Orlando Rummans (1995) and Bobby Leyva (1999) were selected to serve on the UTSA Alumni Association Board of Directors for the 2011-2014 term. The UTSA Alumni Association represents more than 80,000 alumni worldwide. The current president of the Alumni Association, Rob Killen (1997), is also an alumni brother. During a banquet on April 28, 2011, Shane Foley (2002) was recognized as the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s East District Officer of the Year for 2010. He has served on the police department since October 2007.

Toronto (Epsilon-Epsilon)The chapter held its Second Annual Man Auction, auctioning off their time and unique talents to friends and family in order to raise money and awareness for Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Through these efforts, the chapter raised $500. The chapter held its annual Awards Banquet, where Roman Reznikov was recognized for his campus involvement as president of the University of Toronto Pre-Medical Society and Thomas Hobucan was recognized for finishing the academic year with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Towson (Phi-Omega)The chapter installed Joshua Brusca as the new chapter adviser, replacing Bob Burleigh. On May 13, 2011, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for two new brothers.

Union (Lambda-Zeta)On April 8, 2011, the chapter hosted Relay For Life Tossing For A Cure Corn Hole Tournament, raising nearly $1,000 for the American Cancer Society.On April 16, 2011, chapter members participated in the campus-wide Variety Show, winning Best Overall Performance for Super Mario Brothers. On April 29, 2011, the chapter hosted its 5th annual Crawfish

Boil. An alumni brother, nicknamed “Papa Cajun,” drove from Pineville, Louisiana, to steam more than 250 pounds of crawfish for a weekly brotherhood event. On April 30, 2011, the chapter placed second in the Greek Olympics.

Valparaiso (Iota-Sigma)The chapter held a Ritual Initial Exemplification for 15 new brothers, including Stephen Durante who became the chapter’s 1,000th initiated member. On April 5, 2011, William Burfeind (1967) was presented with the Arthur J. Morris Award for “an outstanding contribution to the consumer credit insurance industry” by the Consumer Credit Industry Association (CCIA), formerly the Consumer Credit Insurance Association. Burfeind was executive vice president from 1979 to 2010.

Vanderbilt (Gamma-Delta)The chapter won Greek Awards for Best Tri-Council Circle for its charity basketball tournament, Best Intellectual Development for inner fraternity tutoring program and incentives program, and Best Academic Programming for a lecture series Driven by a Dream (Cerebral Palsy) and Sports Marketing with Athlon Sports.

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)Dr. James N. Martin Jr., (1969) was named the president of the national congress of OB/GYNs at a ceremony on May 4, 2011, in Washington, DC. He is one of the worldwide experts on high-risk pregnancies. Washington DC Area Alumni Association. More than 80 brothers attended a networking event and reception held on May 11, 2011, at the JW Marriott. Fraternity Board Chairman Drew Hunter (Denver 1984) served as the keynote speaker and provided a General Fraternity update. Also in attendance were Executive Vice President Emeritus George Spasyk (Michigan 1949) as

Chapter News


well as 11 current and former Fraternity staff members.

Washington State (Tau)The chapter’s Tolo Club hosted a golf tournament/lunch meeting on May 21, 2011, at Willows Run Golf Course.

Western Ontario (Delta-Eta)Chapter brothers are moving into a new house over the summer. The new chapter will provide better quality lodging while offering a larger common area for brotherhood activities, functions, studying, and relaxing. The housing task force was led by Christian DiBattista, Lawrence Raponi, and William Komer, who also provided financing for the operation.

William & Mary (Epsilon-Alpha)The chapter will host two golf events at the Kingsmill Resort to honor the memories of alumni brothers John Davis, Doug Williams, Michael Duffy, and Jerry Tuttle. The Mike Duffy and Jerry Tuttle Shootout will be held on June 24, 2011, while the John Davis and Doug Williams Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on June 25, 2011. For more information, please email Bobby Jackson at [email protected].

William Jewell (Epsilon-Nu)Anthony Shop (http://gwbizplan.com/news.asp?id=22) (2005) was part of the winning team that received first place in the competitive George Washington University Business Plan competition. For the win, his team received $25,000 in startup funding. Shop is a recent MBA graduate from George Washington.

Wisconsin-Whitewater (Lambda-Iota Colony)The chapter held its Teeter-Totter-a-Thon, which raised funds for women’s athletics. The entire chapter participated in a clean-up of a cemetery outside of Whitewater. Jeff Martin and David Olmos were elected to the Executive Board of Greeks. The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for three honorary brothers: Michael Larcheid, Eric Field, and Richard “Red” Moeller.Retrieved from “http://staging.crossandcrescent.com/index.php?title=11jun_Chapter_News”

Chapter News

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The father is Matt Rose (Missouri 1980), a Gamma-Kappa alumni brother and the CEO and chairman of BNSF Railway. His son is Phil Rose (Texas Christian 2011), the former Iota-Pi chapter president and a 2011 graduate from Texas Christian University.

A Father & Son Legacy

By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)

The FatherWhen Matt joined the Gamma-Kappa chapter at the University of Missouri, he and his chapter brothers faced the typical challenges and opportunities. As an undergrad, Matt lived in a wing of the fraternity house with three of the top four chapter officers.

“Whenever somebody would have to come in to confess or admit something, ask for forgiveness, beg, plead.... they would have to come into the west wing of the fraternity house,” Matt says.

“Even though I wasn’t president, I was always there...listening as a silent judge, juror, and trial lawyer,” Matt says. “We had an opportunity to think through a lot of issues as 20- and 21-year-old young men. Those same decision trees and leadership questions...it’s all the same stuff you use 30 years later in your life.”

Because he sees the importance of setting clear standards for leadership, he has implemented a set of leadership principles at BNSF Railway to help employees always strive to do better.

“One of the tenets of our Leadership Model is communicate, communicate, communicate,” Matt says. “Whether you’re leading a hundred 21-year-olds at a fraternity or 40,000 40- or 50-year-olds at a company, we try to make sure everybody understands the vision or the mission. Get people all going in the same direction. It’s about leading, managing and trying to direct a process. Ultimately, a lot of people can impact your ability to be successful.”

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BNSF Railway employees operate in a “team sport” environment, which is similar to the way a chapter functions.

“Railroading is a team sport,” Matt says. “In everything we do, we need a team that’s focused on the group’s objectives. Certainly leading a fraternity of people who are assembled as part of a team, but who are not being paid, challenges you as a leader to find other ways to motivate them. In that way, it is probably harder than leading a company. You’ve got to be able to articulate the vision or purpose of why that team should move forward in everything they do.

The SonPhil’s first memories of Lambda Chi Alpha are from childhood when his dad would spend time visiting with his Gamma-Kappa brothers from Missouri. At TCU, when it came time for Phil to decide which fraternity to join, his

dad didn’t try to persuade his 18-year-old son.“As with many dads with 18-year-olds, I didn’t want to weigh in on this decision, fearing he might choose another fraternity,” Matt says. “I simply watched him go through the process, but felt very excited when he would attend a Lambda Chi rush event.

However, Matt did do his own research on the TCU Greek system to make sure he knew which fraternities were doing well and which weren’t. Fortunately, the Iota-Pi chapter had a strong reputation.

“I just let things evolve,” recalls Matt. Phil called me one day and said he was going to join a fraternity, and it was going to be Lambda Chi...and I thought ‘that’s interesting,’” Matt says. “I just kind of smiled to myself.”

Phil remembers that his dad told him to visit the Lambda Chi chapter but didn’t try to persuade him.

“I met with them pretty early-on in the summer and it was a pretty good fit. So I really didn’t have much of a decision to make,” Phil says. At Missouri, Matt served as recruitment chairman, while Phil was elected TCU’s chapter president.

Before Phil became chapter president, he called his dad for advice. “Now, you have to remember, he’s 21 by this time...so he was actually calling me for advice, which was much different than when he was an 18-year-old,” Matt says. “I really encouraged him to do it.”

As chapter president, Phil dealt with a few added challenges, which meant he had to work directly with the university administrators and to hold chapter members accountable.

“It was like having a full-time job, but I enjoyed doing it,” Phil says. “It was definitely good to do it. I think it was an overall good experience. It taught me a lot about organization and scheduling and how to respond to the certain situations we dealt with.”

“Its about leading, managing and trying to direct a process.”

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Looking back at his son’s time as chapter president, Matt says it was in some ways similar to being a CEO of a company.“It’s lonely,” Matt says about having to be the ultimate decision maker. “There’s no real book that anyone gives you. It’s the greatest developmental experience you can have in your life. If I have an employee at our company who makes a mistake, I have to pay the consequences for that one employee. What Phil is going through is no different. He’s responsible. He signed up for it.” Matt has taken great pride in seeing Phil progress from associate member to initiated brother to chapter president and to TCU graduate. “The best part about leadership is going through the trials and tribulations,” says Matt. “You’re tested in terms of how you’re going to handle issues from a leadership standpoint. It’s been fun to watch, and gratifying.”

The LegacyWhen Phil participated in the Initiation Ritual Exemplification as a freshman, his dad attended.

“It was just cool,” Phil says. “He was always pretty secretive about all that stuff. I would always ask him what it’s all about when I was an associate. Once it was over we could finally talk about it.”

Phil graduated from TCU in May 2011, and he is currently evaluating several different job opportunities.If and when a day comes to determine a future son’s interest in Lambda Chi, Phil says he would address it like his dad did with him and let his son decide on his own. However, Phil does enjoy the unique bond he shares with his dad and his uncles.

“It would be cool to keep it in the family,” Phil says. “I have two uncles who are also Lambda Chis, and it’s fun when we all get together.”

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A Master of Surf, Tacos & VibeWing G. Lam (San Diego State 1984), co-owner of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, talks about his time in Lambda Chi and how it helped him achieve success.

By Thomas Roberts (Edinboro)

Wing G. Lam (San Diego State 1984), co-owner of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos with brothers Eduardo Lee and Mingo Lee, originally attended San Diego State University to play water polo and study aerospace engineering.

Like most college students, Lam changed his major and focus to something that was not only a better fit for him but also a stronger department at San Diego State. His move to the business department would provide him with a degree in finance and lay the groundwork for his future business success.

Lam’s involvement with the water polo team gained him early positive exposure of the Greek system. Olympic swimmer Brian Goodell was well known at the time for his competitive nature.

“He was in SAE and, of course, I played water polo so my friends and I all thought about joining SAE,” Lam says.

This, however, still left him wanting more. He continued to search for a Greek-letter fraternity he could call home.

“So we decided to check out this other fraternity (Lambda Chi Alpha),” he says. “We noticed that they all really hung out together and even with us before rushing.”

They found a Lambda Chi Alpha chapter that embodied Lam’s free spirit, zest for life and work ethic that would later become the building blocks for sucess with Wahoo’s.

“So all of my friends from the team and I really thought about it and decided to change and try and actually make a difference,” Lam says. “We just thought that we are going to be together the next four years anyway so let’s make it fun.”

The men that joined Lambda Chi Alpha, with Lam, would begin to make an impact on the house from day one. When he looks back on those men and their influence within the

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chapter he says: “Almost all of us held an office at some point while we were rushing and over the next four years.”

Lam went on to become the IFC representative, chapter historian and scholarship chairman.

What Does It Mean Now?Lam’s undergraduate experience with Lambda Chi Alpha left a lasting impact. The fraternity provided him the opportunity to identify a problem and use his resources around him to provide a solution.

“Being that I joined in the 80s, there were not many Asians who joined,” he says. “I was one of two who did it during that time at San Diego State....We needed a little more diversity so I would always go out and I actually recruited some pretty cool athletes that happened to be Asian. It was unheard of back in the 80s for Asians to rush.“

Lam continues as a lifetime brother to keep the relationships he built as undergraduate strong today.

“The fraternity is somewhere where I have some of my best memories,” he says. “There are still a ton of guys around town that I keep in touch with. It’s just one of those things that I do not want to sound like I am living in my college days but almost everything that I learned from Lambda Chi, I have used in some way today.”

The networking and idea of brotherhood is something Lam continues to talk about as useful tools in marketing and promoting Wahoo’s.

“So I have used that idea and now I have a crazy network I use of business owners and I use the same philosophy of creating a close brotherhood bond,” he says. “Everyone is contributing and adding to the energy in the workload...as long as you get guys together who have a similar goal in mind, you can get a ton done.”

Wahoo’s Fish TacosLam graduated and spent three years in a few different jobs in, what he calls “corporate America.” He realized that a lot of friends were running and operating the major surf companies.

“They were literally right here in Orange County,” he says. “So I decided to switch things up. I quit my job and opened up a fish taco stand.”

Lam opened up his first fish taco stand 23 years ago.

“Today, there is not a single extreme sports person in the area who does not eat at our restaurant,” he says. “It’s ridiculously funny. So the Winter X Games, Summer X Games, Motocross and Offroad, you name it, we have met them.“

With more than 50 Wahoo’s restaurants in California, Colorado and Texas, Lam continues to look forward.

“We have many people interested in New York, and Nebraska of all places, Las Vegas, Georgia, and Arizona, so there is a huge interest in our brand,” he says. “We have

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some really great growth potential right now and many of these areas will be opening up by the end of the year.”

The FutureWhen we spoke Lam, he had just finished teaching at Concordia University as a guest lecturer. Also, starting this winter, he will be teaching in the master’s program at Chapman University.

Lam takes pride in his journey to success and continues to use it as a way to teach and inspire others.

“The thing is that you have to learn to work hard and learn to play hard,” he says. “Certain people have a view of fraternities and they think it is all social. I think they forget the fact that someone has to organize the party...The fact that I was always on the organizing side of it, I learned a lot about event planning. In a fraternity or sorority, you learn to become an event planner, a promoter, and all the other jobs you have to do to make an event successful. All those experiences I learned with using budgets and all that helped to get to where I am today.”

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by Jon Williamson (Maryland)

Georgia’s 95h Anniversary For the past eight months, Cross & Crescent has paid tribute to our chapters who received the Grand High Alpha Award in 2010 and those celebrating birthdays in 2010–2011.In this, our final chapter feature of the academic year, we go to Athens, Georgia, home of the Bulldogs of the University of Georgia.

History of Nu ZetaCharles H. Stone (Illinois 1916) and Robert E. Black-burn (Illinois 1913) were primarily responsible for the founding of the Trigon Club at the University of Georgia. Blackburn was a graduate and instructor at Georgia at the time of its founding. The initial meeting of Trigon was held on May 12, 1915, and the following men were pledged to membership: Professor Earl G. Welch, Clarence N. Crocker, Frank O. Miner, G. W. Waner, William D. Hasty, William H. Sorrells, and Clarence W. Rawson.

Three weeks later Trigon was granted a charter by Lambda Chi Alpha and shortly thereafter 14 men were initiated.

Professor Welch was given the honor of being Nu No. 1. He would later become a professor at the University of Kentucky (Agriculture Engineer) and his son would become a Lambda Chi at Kentucky. Charles Stone would become the librarian at the College of William & Mary and Mercer University. Henry Newton was the first president of Trigon. Warren Mixon was the captain of

the basketball team. Rawson was the basketball captain of the 1916 team. Many of the brothers were majoring in engineering and had been induct-ed into the engineering honorary.

Chapter PresidentWilliam Ytterberg is the current chapter president at Georgia.

“We have enjoyed a very successful year and we will start the fall of 2011 with 93 brothers. In the fall of 2010 the chapter finished with a 3.08 GPA. Each year we emphasize

philanthropic work. This includes a $4,000 a year contribution to the foundation established in honor of brother Tim Baldwin who died tragically in a drowning accident. In addition, we make contributions to the Big Hearts Program, we participate in a fun run each fall contributing $1,500 this past fall and we participate in the North-American Canned Food Drive which raised about $700 this year. We are very active in the IFC here at Georgia. I serve as the vice president and Fisher Law is the recruitment chair and a member of Leonard’s Leaders. We have

six other brothers on various IFC committees.”

Does the chapter enjoy solid alumni support?

“Yes, we are very fortunate in hav-ing a number of very involved, dedi-cated, and unselfish alumni. Charles Andros is the president of the alumni association, Joe Crosland is presi-dent of the house corporation, Dave Nicholson is our financial adviser and Steve Tippins is the High Pi.”


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Chapter AdviserFor the past several years Steve Tippins has been the chapter High Pi. How did you get re-involved?

“I moved back to Athens about 14 years ago. My son became an associate member in 2002, and I was able to attend his initiation ceremony. That triggered my in-volvement and it continues to this day.”

What served as the catalyst for your investment of time and energy?

“For me it was the great friendships that I made as an undergraduate, many of whom I am still involved with. My older brother was a Lambda Chi at Georgia and we share many of the same friends. As an undergraduate it was who I was and the experience shaped my life. It was very important to me; the day-to-day things of sharing a meal together, laughing and talking together. We were a very close group in the ‘70s.”

Has the chapter changed much in the past 30 years?

“Well, the chapter size of about 100 brothers is about the same, but these men are much more involved in chari-table and philanthropic activities than we were. This is a very caring group of young men.”

Do you receive alumni support?

“Yes. There are so many who come back to the house for homecoming and tailgate parties and the alumni golf outing. Charles Andros has been successful in getting brothers to volunteer to assist whenever possible. Joe Crosland is president of the house corporation and he is assisted by the treasurer Tom Lanier, whose son Bo is a Lambda Chi. And then we have Cliff Russell, Dave Nicholson, and Richard Lynott. Our alumni room in the house is dedicated to Howard “Buddy” Dillard and contains plaques, trophies, the charter, and a chapter composite from 1915.”

House Corporation PresidentJoe Crosland (1992) is the president of the house corpo-ration.

“I was asked by Charles Andros, a pledge brother, to get re-involved with the chapter. Since I live in Athens and drive by the chapter house every day it was easy to do. The fraternity provided me with such great memories and friendships that I have found this a way of paying forward all that I owe for that experience.”

What are the major challenges faced by the house corpo-ration?

“Our goals are to make improvements to the house and budget for capital improvements. We focus on commu-nicating with the alumni and maintaining our website, www.lxa-uga.org, and reminding them of their great memories. Charles Andros has worked to increase our alumni involvement and support. Assisting him has been Mike McGinn. For me, Mike embodies all of the good things that Lambda Chi is all about. He serves as a Major in the National Guard, including tours in Iraq, is a small-business owner, and is a very unselfish person. Steve Tippins is the backbone for the chapter, and they lean on him for support.”

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Alumni Financial AdviserDave Nicholson is the current chapter financial adviser.

“I got involved about 10 years ago when I became co-president of the housing corporation and I remained in that position for about seven or eight years. When I joined Lambda Chi I only knew one other person in the chapter. Every other one of the 25 pledges was new to me. We quickly developed camaraderie, living with them in and out of the house, and I have maintained many of those relationships after college. I am a CPA by training and served the chapter as High Tau so I remember the numerous challenges of collecting money and budgeting. I find it so very rewarding to watch the current brothers step up to the challenge of successfully carrying out the responsibilities of the position while at the same time holding brothers accountable and having to exert some authority over a friend.”

What are the financial challenges currently faced?

“The chapter house was acquired in the 1960s and modifications were made shortly afterward. We can now sleep about 50 men. The campus culture has changed from low rent with the maximum number of men in the house to today’s student who wants privacy. We are still able to stay competitive with the University of Georgia dorms and are also less expensive than houses or apartments close to campus. Our house is to-tally wired. We used to do a house improvement project each year, but that is no longer neces-sary since we have added a new roof, paneled each room, replaced all doors and windows, put hardwood floors in each room, and added new lighting. With all those improvements we no longer need a project a year. The alumni have always responded to the calls for assistance, so the future for chapter housing remains positive.”

Notable Nu Brothers• Dr.GeorgeAbney(1951),professoranddirectorof

undergraduateservicesandthehonorsadviserofGradyCollegeattheUniversityofGeorgia;for-mernationalpresidentofKappaTauAlpha(jour-nalismhonorsociety);recipientoftheFacultyServiceAwardfromtheUniversityofGeorgia;oneofsevenmembersoftheAbneyfamilytobeaLamb-daChi

• KirkW.Alexander(1978),presidentandCEOofCEOTeamsInc.,Atlanta,Georgia

• CharlesG.Allison(1960),writerandproducer,winneroftwoWritersGuildofAmericaawards:SpecialAwardin1977forFraternityRowandin1985forTheFirstOlympics:Athens1896

• JudgePrestonAlmand(1922),judge,Atlanta,Geor-gia

• JudgeGaryAndrews,(1968),GeorgiaCourtofAp-peals,Atlanta,Georgia

• JamesP.Atwater(1967),presidentofSunTrustBank,Tifton,Georgia;sonBrianisaLambdaChi

• Dr.DonaldE.Barnett(1950),retiredassistantpro-fessoranddirectoroffreshmanEnglish,Univer-sityofGeorgia

• W.CraigBarrs(1979),executivevicepresidentofex-ternalaffairsofGeorgiaPower,Atlanta,Georgia

• Dr.CharlesA.Beaumont(1947),retiredprofessorofEnglish,UniversityofGeorgia

• H.EdselBenson(1942),chairmanoftheBoardofBenson’sInc.;1992recipientoftheAlumniMeritAwardfromtheUniversityofGeorgia

• JudgeWilliamT.Boyett(1967),SuperiorCourtJudge,ConasaugaJudicialCircuit,Dalton,Geor-gia

• Dr.ThomasG.Brooks(1922),surgeon,Augusta,Georgia

• Dr.ThomasD.BrownJr.(1959),physician,Louis-ville,Kentucky

• Dr.JamesG.Bryant(1962),professorofHealth&PhysicalEducation,WesternCarolinaUniversity

• DavidL.Burch(1973),presidentofLincolnNation-alCorp.;formermemberoftheFoundationBoardattheUniversityofGeorgia

• Dr.RobertK.Butz(1951),professorofmathematics,AuburnUniversity

• Dr.H.KennonCarter(1963),physicsprofessor,OakRidgeNationalLaboratories

• MikeJ.Castronis(1946),firstUniversityofGeorgiafootballplayertobenamedall-SECthreeconsec-utiveyears;All-Americaninfootballin1946;mem-beroftheUniversityofGeorgiaCircleofHonor;scholarshipgiveninhishonor

• CasualtiesofWar:WorldWarII–LeoW.Belcher,WilliamElishaCamp,StephenMercerCollins,Eu-


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geneDickersonFreeman,JosephKennethHamilton,HughL.Moore,RichardTurnerMoore,RobertLongNissley,JamesTurn-erSkipworth,EugeneAllenSmith,JamesStricklandSwarts,FrankVonSprechen,Jr.,JamesFranklinWood;Korea–ArthurH.Hutchinson;Vietnam–JosephStephenPrince

• VassaCate(1940),memberoftheGeorgiaPrepHallofFame,memberoftheGeorgiaStateAthleticHallofFame,VassaCateAth-leticCenterinCalhoun,Georgianamedforhim

• J.KeithCaudell(1979),presidentandCEOoftheNationalBankofWaltonCounty,Geor-gia

• NicholasChilivus(1953),seniorpartnerinthefirmofChilivis,Cochran,Larkins,&Bever.Atlanta,Georgia,formerrevenuecommissionerforthestateofGeorgia

• Dr.BrianJ.Choate(1988),dentistinCart-ersville,Georgia

• MelvinR.Conger(1946),playedprofessionalfootballwiththeNewYorkYankeesin1946andtheBrooklynDodgersin1947

• G.ThomasCornetJr.(1950),CEOofGTO2000Trucking,Inc.,Gainesville,Georgia

• Dr.MarkJ.Costantino(1968),physician,Athens,Georgia

• Dr.CliffordCourtenay(1977),doctorofophthalmologyinValdosta,Georgia

• Dr.AlexanderCulbreth(1985),OB/GYNinValdosta,Georgia

• JohnS.Dalis’71,bankruptcyjudge,Bruns-wick,Georgia

• RaymondL.“Racehorse”Davis(1943),playedprofessionalfootballwiththeMiamiSe-ahawksin1946andtheBaltimoreColtsfrom1947to1949;memberoftheGeorgiaStateAthleticHallofFame

• HowardL.“Buddy”Dillard(1971),reales-tate;recipientofLambdaChiAlpha’sOrderofMeritin2004

• RaymondElrod(1959),formermayorofDal-ton,Georgia

• MorrisC.Estes(1988),managingdirectoratGECapital,HealthcareFinancialServices,Atlanta,Georgia

• Dr.WilliamEvans(1950),assistantprofessorintheDepartmentofCommunicationatGeorgiaStateUniversity

• Dr.SladeExley(1957),veterinarian,Gaines-ville,Georgia

• NicholasJ.Feher(1951),playedprofessionalfootballwiththeSanFrancisco49’ers

from1951to1954andwiththePittsburghSteelersin1955

• Dr.AlanD.Fletcher(1962),professorofmasscommunication,LouisianaStateUni-versity

• Dr.HenryJ.Ford(1950),physician,Univer-sityofGeorgia

• JamesFordham(1940),playedprofessionalfootballwiththeChicagoBearsin1944and1945

• W.RoyceFricks(1956),retiredpresidentandCEOofPeoplesBankofBartowCounty,Sa-vannah,Georgia

• Dr.JohnW.GarlandIII(1960),seniorpsy-chiatrist,NortheastGeorgiaPsychiatricGroup,Gainesville,Georgia

• JosephGeri(1949),asanundergraduateplayedintheRose,Sugar,Gator,andOr-angeBowls,playedprofessionalfootballwiththePittsburghSteelersfrom1949to1951andwiththeChicagoCardinalsin1952,AllProin1950and1951;memberofthestateofGeorgiaSportsHallofFame

• JudgeCharlesL.Gowen(1925),attorney;GeorgiaStateRepresentativefrom1939-1960;BrunswickJuvenileCourtJudge;recipientofUniversityofGeorgiaLawSchool’sDis-tinguishedServiceScroll;honoredbythededicationoftheCharlesLatimerGowenCourtyardontheOldCampusoftheUni-versityofGeorgia

• ToddGraves,ownerandfounderofRais-ingCanesChickenFingersheadquarteredinBatonRouge,LA

• Dr.YoungL.Hall,Jr.(1930),doctor,Miami,Florida

• Hon.JoeF.Harris(1958),formerGovernorofthestateofGeorgia;2008recipientoftheAlumniMeritAwardfromtheUniver-sityofGeorgia

• Dr.ClydeC.HarrisonJr.(1950),retiredsur-geon,McDonough,Georgia

• WilliamStanleyHatcher(1987),controlleroftheAugustaNationalGolfClub,Augus-ta,Georgia

• Robert“BravoSix”Hemphill(1965),lieuten-antcolonel,awardedtheSilverStarMedal,BronzeStarMedal(4),PurpleHeart;Com-manderofOliverStone’sCompany(authorofPlatoon).

• JackHennings(1969),EpiscopalPriest,Lagu-naNiguel,California

• B.B.Heery(1920),GeorgiaMunicipalCourtJudge,Savannah,Georgia

• BryceHolcomb(1959),formerpresidentof


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theGeorgiaSoftDrinkAssociation,Gaines-ville,Georgia,(sonBryceisaLambdaChi)

• DavidK.HollisJr.(1958),chairmanoftheboardandCEOoftheCitizensCommunityBank,Hahira,Georgia

• Dr.BenjaminH.Jenkins(1944),retiredphysi-cian,Newnam,Georgia

• ReynoldJ.Jennings(1968),formerViceChairmanofTenetHealthcareCorpora-tion

• Dr.JamesH.Johnson(1978),physician,Co-lumbus,Georgia

• CharlesKelley(2004),memberofthesinginggroupLadyAntebellumwinnerofnumer-ousGrammyAwards,AmericanCountryAwards,andCountryMusicAssociationAwards

• BrianP.Kemp(1986),currentSecretaryofStateofGeorgia,formermemberofGeorgiaStateSenate,ownerofKempProperties

• Dr.DouglasB.Kersey(1995),dentist,La-grange,Georgia

• JohnH.Kingston(1976),CongressmanfromGeorgia,Washington,DC

• KevinL.Knox(1977),directorofdevelop-mentattheUniversityofAlabama@Bir-minghamSchoolofBusiness

• Dr.JohnD.LamonJr.,(1923),surgeoninSanJose,California

• JudgeClayD.Land(1979),ArticleIIIFederalJudgefortheU.S.DistrictCourtfortheMiddleDistrictofGeorgia,appointedin2001

• Dr.RichardA.Langford(1968),professorofmicrobiologyattheUniversityofGeorgia

• MarkLewis(1980),chieffinancialofficerofMWVCommunityDevelopmentandLandManagementGroup

• JudgeHaroldW.LongJr.(1961),JudgeofSmallClaimsCourt,Stewart,Florida

• Dr.CharlesMachemehl(1979),orthodon-tist,Duluth,Georgia

• LewisMassey(1985),formerSecretaryofStateofGeorgia

• Dr.MichaelMcBride,(1964),retiredphysi-cian,Valdosta,Georgia

• Dr.W.RobMcCormack(1995),dentist,oralsurgeon,Atlanta,Georgia

• Dr.WilliamL.McDaniel,Jr.(1955),retiredphysician,Dalton,Georgia

• Dr.ThomasF.McDonald(1952),vicechan-cellorstudentservicesoftheUniversitySystemofGeorgiaandprofessoremeritusofpsychology,Atlanta,Georgia

• Dr.RaymondMcMahon(1939),professorin

theDepartmentofFineArts,Birmingham-SouthernCollege

• HarrisonMinchew(1979),ownerSignatureGolfDesign,Jacksonville,Florida

• Dr.GeorgeT.MitchellIII(1974),dentist,Duluth,Georgia

• Dr.ThomasMoynahan(1979),dentist,Newn-an,Georgia

• EugeneMoore(1958),presidentofMoorePontiac,Buick,andGMCTruck,Canton,Georgia

• Dr.ArthurA.Morrison(1920),surgeon,Sa-vannah,Georgia

• Dr.HowardJ.Morrison(1925),pediatrician,Savannah,Georgia

• Dr.EarlN.Mullis(1983),surgeon,Macon,Georgia

• JohnS.Neel(1984),CEOSanfordCo.,Macon,Georgia;memberoftheexecutivecommitteeoftheUniversityofGeorgiaAlumniAsso-ciation

• Dr.JohnG.Norris(1989),immunologist,Charlotte,NorthCarolina

• Dr.FosterH.Northrup(1985),veterinarian,Louisville,Kentucky

• KeithM.Oelke(1975),executivedirectorofdevelopmentattheUniversityofGeorgia

• DavidS.Oyler(1991),CEOandpresidentofInmark,Inc.,Atlanta,Georgia

• JonathanB.Pannell(2000),attorneywithGrayandPannell,Savannah,Georgia,mem-beroftheBoardofDirectorsoftheUni-versityofGeorgiaAlumniAssociation

• ThomasH.“Trey”ParisIII(1983),managerofgovernmentrelationsforGeneralElec-tric,Atlantic,Georgia;pastpresidentoftheexecutivecommitteeoftheUniversityofGeorgiaAlumniAssociation

• DavidParkman(1960),executivedirectorofuniversityadvancementemeritusattheStateUniversityofWestGeorgia

• TrummieL.PatrickIII(1998),withStateFarmInsurance,Roswell,Georgia;memberoftheBoardofDirectorsoftheUniversityofGeorgiaAlumniAssociation

• AlexanderW.Patterson(1962),retiredat-torneywithAlston&BirdLLP,Athens,Georgia;appearedonthecoveroftheCross&Crescent

• SchleyL.PerryIII(1989),executivevicepresi-dentofgovernmentaffairsattheNationalCottonCouncil,Washington,DC

• Dr.RandallJ.Phillips(1984),dentist,Gaines-ville,Georgia

• Dr.CarlPittman(1937),retiredphysician,


FEATURE

Tifton,Georgia• JohnRauch(1949),HeadCoachoftheOak-

landRaiders;playedprofessionalfootballwiththeNewYorkBulldogsin1949,theNewYorkYanksin1950and1951aswellasthePhiladelphiaEaglesin1951;memberoftheGeorgiaStateAthleticHallofFame,inductedintotheCollegeFootballHallofFame

• JudgeWilliamM.RayII(1985),SuperiorCourtJudge,GwinnettCountySuperiorCourt,Lawrenceville,Georgia

• Dr.WilliamH.RhodesJr.(1953),physician,UnionPoint,Georgia

• FrankA.Richter(1967),playedprofessionalfootballfortheDenverBroncosfrom1967to1969

• Dr.ThadA.Riddle(1993),orthopedicsur-geon,Cartersville,Georgia

• JohnRoberts(1932),playedprofessionalfootballwiththeBostonBravesin1932aswellastheStatenIslandStapletonsinthesameyear,thePhiladelphiaEaglesin1933and1934,aswellasthePittsburghPiratesinthesameyear;memberoftheGeorgiaStateAthleticHallofFame

• Dr.GrantJ.Scarborough(1994),physician,Augusta,Georgia

• Dr.GainesE.Sewell(1938),dentist,Savan-nah,Georgia

• Dr.BruceSharpe(1976),physician,Alma,Georgia

• JamesT.Skipworth(1942),memberoftheGeorgiaStateAthleticHallofFame,killed-in-actionduringWorldWarII

• Dr.FrankSlater(1925),physician,Georgia• Dr.JohnR.Smith(1927),physician,Hahira,

Georgia• Dr.CharlesA.Snyder(1957),professorof

informationsystems,AuburnUniversity• DavidSteed(1965),directorofBurgerKing

AccountGroupinEurope,Coca-ColaEx-portCorp.,London,England

• Dr.OtisH.StephensJr.(1954),distinguishedprofessorofpoliticalsciences&lawattheUniversityofTennessee

• Dr.CharlesH.Stone(Illinois1916),founderofthechapter;alsofounderofLambdaChiAlphaatOklahomaStateUniversityandas-sistedinfoundingatVanderbilt;servedaschapteradviseratOklahomaState,Vander-bilt,CollegeofWilliam&Mary,andMercer;servedaslibrarianatMercerfor20years;receivedLambdaChiAlpha’sOrderofMeritin1935

• Dr.JamesR.Story(1969),cardiologist,Spar-tanburg,SouthCarolina

• Dr.RobertS.Strickland(1945),physician,Mableton,Georgia

• WilliamS.StuckeySr.(1930),founderofStuckey’s,aroadsideconveniencestoreandrestaurant

• JosephP.“Terry”Tereshinski(1947),formerprofessionalfootballplayerwiththeWashingtonRedskinsfrom1947to1954

• Col.WarrenA.Thrasher(1940),professoremeritusofmanagement,Athens,Georgia

• CharlesTrippi(1946),winneroftheMax-wellAwardin1946;playedprofessionalfootballwiththeChicagoCardinalsfrom1947to1955;inductedintotheCol-legeFootballHallofFameandtheProFootballHallofFame;memberoftheGeor-giaStateAthleticHallofFame;ranked20thgreatestcollegefootballplayerofall-timebyESPN

• Dr.GainesW.Walter(1915),professoremer-itusatGeorgiaStateUniversity;writerof“HailToGeorgia,”thefightsongoftheUniversityofGeorgiain1931

• Dr.RichardB.Weeks(1923),surgeon,Augus-ta,Georgia

• John“Judge”White(1930),organizedtheAlabamaDistrictofKeyClubInternation-al;recipientofLambdaChiAlpha’sOrderofMerit

• JoelA.WierIII(1963),(U.S.NavalAcademy),retiredseniorvicepresidentandfinancialconsultantSmith-BarneyInc.;formerpres-identoftheNationalAllianceonMentalIllness–Mid-Carolina

• Dr.CharlesC.Wike(1961),surgeon,Eaton-ton,Georgia

• JosephH.Williams(1966),chairmanoftheboardforFirstAllianceBank,Jackson-ville,Florida

• CharlesR.Yarbrough(1959),1995recipientoftheAlumniMeritAwardfromtheUni-versityofGeorgia


FRATERNITY NEWS

On June 6, 2011, seven new ELCs join the Professional Staff in Indianapolis. New ELCs and IHQ Staff Updates

By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison 1987)

This summer, the General Fraternity welcomes seven new educational leadership consultants. Though they come from a variety of backgrounds, each man has served in leadership roles in his home chapter and several have previously served the General Fraternity, either as interns at the International Headquarters or as members of the Student Advisory Committee or Council of Presidents. Joseph Chavez (St. Mary’s 2011)

Chavez is a graduate of St. Mary’s University in San Anto-nio, Texas, where he majored in biology. Originally from El Paso, his hobbies and interests are play-ing baseball, tennis, volleyball, and racquetball. He also enjoys watching movies and reading books. As an undergraduate brother he served his chapter as recruitment chairman, treasurer, and ritualist.

Brandon Hebert (Simpson 2011)Majoring in media and jour-nalism at Simpson College, Hebert grew up in Charles City, Iowa. His hobbies include watching movies, dis-cussing philosophy, fishing, and playing golf and basket-ball. As an undergraduate brother he served his chapter as scholarship chairman and fraternity educator. He also served the General Fraternity

as a member of the Student Advisory Committee.

Chris Kirkeby (South Dakota 2011)Kirkeby grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota. He gradu-ated from the University of South Dakota with a degree in media and journalism. His hobbies include watching movies as well as making them. He also enjoys play-ing and watching sports. As an undergraduate brother he served his chapter as presi-dent, ritualist, and house man-

ager. He also served on the International Ritual Team.

David Walthius (Indiana 2010)A graduate from Indiana Uni-versity, Walthius majored in anthropology and Near Eastern languages and cultures. He is originally from Downer’s Grove, Illinois. His hobbies include listening to and writing music, golfing, and traveling. As an undergraduate brother he served his chapter as president, vice president, and fraternity educator.


FRATERNITY NEWS

Nick Ludwig (Coe 2011)From Byron, Illinois, Ludwig graduated from Coe College with a degree in business ad-ministration/communication and public relations. He en-joys playing soccer, running, singing, and also works on website design. As an under-graduate brother he served his chapter as president, secretary, and recruitment chairman. He served the General Fraternity

as the vice chairman of the Council of Presidents.

Nolan Ryan (Southeast Missouri 2011)Ryan is a graduate from South-east Missouri State University where he majored in elementary education. He is from O’Fallon, Missouri. His interests include traveling, camping, and going to concerts. As an undergradu-ate brother he served his chapter as vice president, recruitment chairman, and alumni chairman.

Joe Citro (Florida Southern 2011)Joe is a graduate from Florida Southern with a degree in Ad-vertising. His hometown is Palm Harbor, Florida. His interests in-clude swimming, extreme sports and watching movies. While an undergraduate, he served as the inner circle chairman for two years and was also the scholastic chairman.

Other IHQ Staff Updates

• Marcus Kelley is leaving staff in August after serv-ing two years as an ELC. He has been accepted into graduate school at Ball State University and he will begin there in the fall.

• Bobby Collins has finished his time on staff after serving one year as an ELC. He has moved back to New Jersey but hopes to eventually settle in Wash-ington, DC.

• Nate Hooven has finished his time on staff after serving one year as an ELC. He has moved back to New Mexico and will be getting married in the fall.

• Josh Birchfield has finished his time on staff after serving as an ELC and then as an associate director of chapter services. He will remain on staff until Au-gust and then begin his next journey as a U.S. Army chaplain.

• Matt Roy has left staff after serving as an ELC and then as the associate director of harm reduction. He plans to stay in the Indianapolis area and work in education.

• Matt Schultz has finished his time on staff after two years as an ELC. He has moved to Oklahoma and plans to begin working for an energy company.

• Brad Hawse has finished his time on staff after serving two years as an ELC. He has moved back to Dayton, Ohio, and is actively looking for a new career opportunity.

• Chris Cole, who has served as both an ELC and associate director of chapter services, is the new as-sociate director of harm reduction.

• Chase Simpson was promoted from an ELC to an associate director of chapter services.

• Vince Cain was promoted from an ELC to an associ-ate director of chapter services.

• Aaron Fieseler was promoted from an ELC to a senior ELC of education, working for Director of Education Tim Reuter.

• Travis Smith was promoted from an ELC to associ-ate director of alumni relations, working for Educa-tional Foundation CEO Mark Bauer.


FRATERNITY NEWS

Advice from a Beta-Alpha young alumni brother at Angelo State. Modeling the Way

By Chance Fincher (Angelo State)

As a 2009 graduate of Angelo State University, I was sitting in a café about nine months ago with four other alumni brothers from the Beta-Alpha chapter, listening to the outgoing chapter alumni association president, Dick Robertson (Angelo State 1970), as he handed over the organization.

An exemplary leader and an incredibly dedicated broth-er, he had served his time in the association and he knew it was time to let this younger group take over.

The four alumni brothers and I had stayed active in the chapter through thick and thin -- no money, low num-bers, few resources, little help, and the like. Two of us at the table remember vividly a time at which we were two of only four active members in the active chapter.

As new alumni officers were elected, I knew there would be no more need for complaints about support; this was my opportunity to take action.

No More ExcusesAs the five of us looked around the table that day, the feeling was mutual; this was our time.

We now had supervisory responsibilities and the ability to bring new opportunities to fruition. This is not to say that we wanted to be dominating or controlling, we just felt as though we had freedom to implement things that we had always talked about.

This new-found confidence even seemed symbolically represented as the alumni association checkbook was


FRATERNITY NEWS

slid across the table from the old president to the new one. I looked around the table and admired these guys and felt lucky to be associated with them, that we wear the same insignia, that we know the same things. I was happy just to be there, to see us meeting up like this with no second thoughts, nothing better to do, noth-ing more important at that time, despite the fact that most of us had to leave that day to travel long distances in separate directions around Texas.

As an associate member, I never thought that I’d be sit-ting here with these guys helping to revamp our alumni association.

Though I may not have known it at the time, this was what I wanted when I rushed as a freshman, to be here, to be united the way we were. I was a little jealous -- the chapter was turning a page in its 40 year history and I wasn’t in college anymore.

Staying InformedAs I mentioned before, the really good thing about the new alumni association is that we’re the younger gen-eration of Lambda Chi alumni. That means we’re up to date on the many changes our fraternity has gone through in recent years (for example, the TRUE Brother Initiative and so on).

This really helps us out in terms of advising, as we don’t have to play catch up. We are installing an Alumni Advisory Board that includes the Officer Mentorship Program, headed by Grant Walker, a former chapter

president.

Looking back on all of the offices we have held, we feel as though there would have been less stress placed upon us if we’d had an alumni brother to provide back up. We are very lucky to have Marcus Kelley from the International Headquarters staff on this board. He will be an immense asset and will provide tons of insight. We simply took volunteers, which wasn’t a challenge be-cause this seemed to be personal for some of these guys. They wanted to do it.

More recently, we had our White Rose Weekend, when we initiated four new brothers on Friday April 29th, held Alumni vs. Actives Softball on Saturday morning, and then held White Rose the same evening. We teamed up with the active chapter to help them organize the festivi-

ties according to what was convenient for undergradu-ates and alumni as a whole. We put the word out on our end, as well as providing some additional funding to cover the new alumni attendees who were responding to our invitations.

Alumni Association President Michael Murray worked extremely hard, reaching out to alumni ahead of White Rose Weekend, and putting together an updated chapter directory. This being the first big event with the new alumni association in place, we really felt as though we needed to prove ourselves both to alumni who have not signed up, and to the active chapter.

It was a calling that came at the right time and which


TRUE BROTHER

demanded an answer. I don’t mean to sound like a Field of Dreams but you know what I mean; it’s a challenge we’re dead set on achieving. Though there are those brothers we have always kept up with, whom we respect and appreciate, I have to say this is the first time I’ve seen this kind of new alumni presence. It’s very excit-ing.

During our last meeting we discussed the plans we have for the future but those plans are contingent upon our immediate goals involving membership and finances. By the end of the year, we need to have so much in the bank, and so many members, in order to act on ideas for things like alumni events, trips, a scholarship fund, a lodging fund, and creating new programming while improving the existing ones.

Though it’s mostly fun, the hard work is going down right now, but eventually (soon) we would like to start offering our brothers and association members some benefits, or a good service if you will. That’s the way I see it anyway.

Lifetime BrothersI consider myself fortunate to be a part of this along with guys who are committed to continuing our Lambda Chi experience. I hung with these guys for four and a half solid years. You don’t just let something like that go. It takes getting out of school and being on your own to realize how much you experienced with the brothers, or how good you had it when you were in college and in the full swing of things.

We did so much together; just living you know? We lit-erally were like our own community, and still are. This alumni association is simply a catalyst for our graduates to continue to be involved in the brotherhood.

And to be content in knowing that it was worth it...and it still is.

TRUE BROTHER


A group of Samford University students, including several Lambda Chi brothers, had spent the day sharing fellowship and enjoying each others’ company at a local alumni brother’s home.

William Zip Brown (Samford), initiated last February, had no idea of the many values he would display before the night’s end. Brothers David Nicholas West (Sam-ford), Adam Blake Sittre (Samford), and Zip then drove to a local restaurant to share dinner with a few guests.

The group drove home in rain that left the double-lane road wet and which set the stage for the unfortunate events to follow. After rounding a corner the occupants of the second car looked out their windows and noticed the tail lights of Blake’s leading vehicle disappearing off

the road and away from their view.

Zip quickly turned his vehicle around and headed back to where they had last seen Blake’s truck.

“We were looking for him and thinking that there was no way he could have gone over that edge,” Zip says. “We were looking for him in the woods until someone finally leaned over and looked down into the creek. We saw the bottom of his truck sticking up. It was complete-ly flipped over.”

Blake’s vehicle had hydroplaned and jumped the curb, then dropped approximately 30 feet and landed in the creek below, upside down.

After realizing what happened, Nicholas called 911 while Zip headed down toward the water.

“As soon as I got to the bottom of the hill I took every-thing out of my pockets and jumped into the water,” Zip says. “When I reached the truck I could see that he was not mak-ing any movement or noise.”

Zip hoped for the best while his brother re-mained motionless, upside down, and trapped underwater in his car.

“I knew that if I did not get him out in time that he was going to drown, if he hadn’t already,” Zip says. “There was about an inch of

Samford brothers exemplify what our great Fraternity teaches.Heroic Rescue

By Thomas Roberts (Edinboro)


TRUE BROTHER

the truck out of the water and the rest was under. We were prepared for the worst.“

“While breaking the window open with my fist the glass cut my hand. At first I could only get the door open about a quarter of the way because it was wedged against the bank. When I finally opened it up, I heard him yelling, “I’m okay! I’m okay! I can breathe! Get me out of here!”

Zip alerted the group that Blake was okay and, by then, Nick was also making his way into the water. “We were both standing by the door while I reached into the open-ing to help him get out,” Zip says. “Once he had hold of my arm I started pulling him out and towards the bank.”

ReflectThe paramedics arrived shortly after they got Blake to the bank. Zip had a cut on his hands from the broken

glass while Blake walked away with his hands just slightly scratched.

The recent, heavy rains had left the creek deeper than usual and allowed the water to cushion the fall. Blake was shaken by the whole thing but had no significant injuries.

Make MeaningNick and Zip acted above and beyond in this situation exemplifying all of what our great Fraternity represents.

When asked what he would take away from this expe-rience Zip said: “It felt just like a reaction more than anything. I felt like I was doing that for a bigger purpose and not just for myself.”

It is safe to say that our brothers acted within all seven of our Core Values and showed an extreme amount of Personal Courage.

ShareAs the fraternity educator, Zip has the responsibility to teach and educate the brothers of his chapter. This expe-rience provided an opportunity for growth and learning within our values.

The chapter spent time talking about the event in addi-tion to having more private conversions with Blake and his mother.

“He told me from his perspective that he remembers hydroplaning and hitting the curb and he remembers slipping and hitting the water,” Zip says. “He saw an air pocket by the pedals and happened to get to that air pocket just as I got to him.”

june 2011 cross and crescent

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