February 2013 Cross & Crescent

February 2013 . Issue 1

Cross & Crescent

FROM THE EDITOR

Tad Lichtenauer

Director of Communications/IT(317) 803-7322

[email protected]

With the spring semester comes conclave season. The purpose of each conclave is to offer undergraduate brothers a variety of educational leadership training and to foster regional, inter-chapter brotherhood.

After receiving feedback from last year’s conclaves, the Professional Staff has created a new set of curriculum options for use at each conclave. These options include:

• Techniques to Build a Successful Program - To learn how to identify the components needed to establish a program within the chapter

• Motivate Your Brothers - To understand accountability and learn how to motivate chapter members to fulfill their duties

• Planning a Fun, Safe Chapter Event - To reinforce the Lambda Chi Alpha Event Planning Process

• Where are We Going: SMART Goals - To understand a goal setting process to get the chapter going in the same direction

• Passing the Torch: Officer Transition - To learn and understand how to conduct a proper officer transition

• True ID: Sexual Orientation - To lead each brother to a greater understanding of the issues surrounding sexual orientation

• Inner Circle Overview - To provide and increase awareness of the Inner Circle Journey

• Lambda Chi Alpha Recruitment (Cole Recruitment) - To provide more skills-based training to assist with the creation of a proper recruitment training program

• Dealing with Intoxicated People - To understand the danger of alcohol and how to identify an intoxicated person

The following is an updated schedule for the 2013 conclaves with the date and host chapter listed:

• Atlantic - Drexel, February 22-24• Bluegrass - Eastern Kentucky, February

22-24• Colonial - Richmond, April 12-14• Great Lakes - Wilmington, April 12-14• Great Plains - South Dakota, April 5-7• Great South - Montevallo (at Samford),

March 1-3• Gulf Coast - Tarleton State, February 15-17

• Midwest - Valparaiso, March 1-3• Northeast - Maine, March 1-3• Ozark - Missouri-Kansas City, February

15-17• Pacific Northwest - Idaho, February 15-17• Peninsula - Embry-Riddle, February 8-10• Rocky Mountain - Colorado State-Pueblo,

February 22-24

If you have any questions about your conclave or want to register, please visit lambdachi.org/conclaves or email Associate Director of Chapter Services Justin Fisher at [email protected].

In ZAX & friendship,

Tad Lichtenauer

Editor, Cross & Crescent Magazine

HeaderYOUR ONLINE SOURCE FOR ALL LAMBDA CHI ALPHA NEWSFebruary 2013 ISSUE 1

Cross & Crescent

CONTRIBUTIONS

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

Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity8741 Founders RdIndianapolis, IN 46268-1338(317) [email protected]/cross-crescent

11BEAUTY, BRUSHES, AND BORGS A simple question posed to famous makeup artist Michael Westmore unmasks a world of cutting-edge advancements, notable achievements, and intriguing stories from an industry that serves as the face for the television and film industries.By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)

17BACK IN ACTIONAfter re-colonizing four years ago, the men of Epsilon-Sigma have established themselves at UCLA with a membership of around 100 brothers. The chapter won UCLA’s Standards of Excellence Award and attained the highest GPA of all fraternities on campus for the previous two semesters.By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)

23ARTISANS OF ENTERTAINMENT Two Los Angeles producers discuss their roles in the movie and television industry and share how an unlikely group of fraternity brothers became stars in Hollywood. By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)

1 Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news, and reports of death.

26 Fraternity News2013 Neville Advisor’s College

29 Fraternity NewsWe’re Hiring! ELCs and Summer

Interns

32 Fraternity News2012 Financial Recap

33 Alumni Recognition The Professor and his Sons

FeaturesDepartments

CREDITS

Publisher: Bill Farkas Managing Editor: Tad Lichtenauer Assistant Editor: Andrew TalevichLayout & Design: Thomas Roberts Photographer: Walt Moser Research: Jon Williamson Editors: Jono Hren Bob McLaughlin

Cross & Crescent February 20131www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter News


Chapter news, alumni news, and reports of death

Arkansas State (Iota-Theta)In December the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 26 associate members, raising the chapter’s total undergraduate initiated brothers to 77. Caleb Garrett was presented with the James W. Lundberg Award as the top associate member.

Rian Snell was elected as the new chapter advisor. In addition, Brock Acebo was elected social chairman, Spence Hart was elected vice president, and Dakota Watson was elected scholarship chairman.

Baldwin-Wallace (Kappa-Phi)Eugene Unger (1958) died June 14, 2012. He was a salesperson at Joy’s Clocke Shoppe.

Joseph Cavan (1950) died March 7, 2012. He served in the Army during World War II.

Robert Kujanek (1948) died March 7, 2012. He was the retired vice president of sales for the Pipeline Development Co. in Cleveland Ohio.

Eugene Simon (1939) died May 8, 2012. He worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps and was a Navy officer on the aircraft carrier USS Belleau Wood in the South Pacific. In 1949, Simon became president, publisher, and general manager of The Valley Day News in Tarentum, Pennsylvania. In 1967 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the Pennsylvania Newspaper Publishers Association for his devotion to the newspaper community. In 1977 he retired to New Mexico to fulfill his lifelong dream of being a cattle rancher. In retirement he also wrote a weekly column that appeared in several New Mexico newspapers.

Bloomsburg (Beta-Xi)

More than 40 alumni brothers attended a chapter homecoming event. They marched in the parade and visited the chapter house. Afterwards, they attended the football game and then listened to the “TROP X” band, all of whom are Lambda Chi brothers.

Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon)

Over winter break a few brothers traveled to other countries including Costa Rica and England.


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A chapter brother spent a semester in Washington, D.C., as an intern for a U.S. congressman, including his attending the Republican National Convention.

The chapter vice president organized a brotherhood event with the chapter members attending a Bradley hockey game. Two brothers are members of that team.

Butler (Alpha-Alpha)Raymond O’Shaughnessy (1957) died December 12, 2012. The former class president of the Butler School of Pharmacy, he served in the U.S. Army and later owned and operated O’Shaughnessy Drug.

Cal Poly (Phi-Sigma)At

the Cal Poly Greek Awards Banquet the chapter received: Chapter of the Year, Outstanding Academic Success, Outstanding Community Service, Outstanding Philanthropy, Outstanding Alumni Relations, Outstanding Risk Management, Outstanding New Member Development, and Alumni Advisor of the Year (Matt Mokhtarian).

California-Los Angeles (Epsilon-Sigma)

The chapter ranked No. 1 in GPA with the highest campus grades for the second quarter in a row.

Central Missouri (Lambda-Pi)

Ricky Ashley was accepted into the university’s nursing program, participated on the collegiate rugby team, served as the chapter’s athletic director, and made the Dean’s List.

Cornell (Omicron)

Chapter brothers participated in the university’s campus-wide “Into the Streets” Greek philanthropy project. The students helped the Ithaca community with various cleanup efforts around the town. The Omicron brothers focused on providing maintenance and cleanup work at a nearby cemetery.



CHAPTER NEWS



Clemson (Delta-Omicron)The chapter offered 20 associate member bids and held an Associate Member Ceremony on February 1, 2013.

Phil Carson was elected IFC vice president of finance.

Delaware (Lambda-Beta)

Four chapter brothers were initiated into the Order of Omega.

Drury (Theta-Sigma)For the 10th consecutive year, the chapter awarded the Patrick Quentin Barrett Scholarship to a qualified incoming male freshman. Winners are selected by the consensus of the chapter faculty advisor, alumni advisor, and a member of the Drury staff. The scholarship is named in memory of Patrick Quentin Barrett, a former chapter president and campus leader, who died in a car accident in 1963.

Eureka (Theta-Chi)Bruce Darnall has written an article entitled Nick Roach: Chicago Bears’ Soft-Spoken Leader of Faith. It was published on-line by Athletes in Action, the sports ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ. It tells about Roach and his Christian faith.

Evansville (Iota-Mu)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for nine brothers.

Florida (Epsilon-Mu)

David A. Wolf (1985) has authored his fourth book, “When the Wheels Stop Spinning - Legal Rights of the Injured Child - What Parents Need to Know After the Accident.” His other three books also focus on the legal rights and remedies available to injured children and their families. Wolf has dedicated his legal career of more than 22 years to addressing the issues affecting the legal rights, welfare, and safety of children.

Florida State (Zeta-Rho)Attorney Michael Haggard (1992) received a $5.7 million jury verdict for his client in a negligent security case in Miami-Dade County.

Florida Tech (Beta-Nu)The chapter had the highest fall semester GPA of all fraternities, with a 2.87, and the highest cumulative GPA of all fraternities, with a 2.92 GPA. They also had the highest new member GPA with a 2.93.


CHAPTER NEWS



Kentucky (Epsilon-Phi)Robert F. Barrett (1960) died December 31, 2012. A former chapter president, he received his commission in the Air Force and spent his tour as squadron commander of his unit at Kessler Air Base in Mississippi. He returned to Lexington to enter law school in 1964 where he was a member of the Presidents Law Journal. Receiving his Juris Doctor, he joined the law firm of Hughes, Clark and Burke in Covington, Kentucky, and achieved an MBA from Xavier University in 1968. Serving in the Air Force reserves, he was promoted to the rank of captain. Relocating to California, he became general counsel for Carollo Engineers, Inc.

Kettering (Lambda-Epsilon A)

As a part of the associate member education about Service & Stewardship, the chapter brothers volunteered as the valet staff for a local event that raises money for a local hospital.

Maryland-Baltimore County (Phi-Delta)

Shane B. Gay died September 21, 2012. He was a senior airman in the Air Force.

Georgia Tech (Beta-Kappa)John E. Dulla (1978) died June 1, 2012. He was a self-employed industrial engineer and entrepreneur.

Hanover (Theta-Zeta)Clifford K. “Chip” Fiordalis (1969) died on December 24, 2012. After graduating from Hanover he earned a master’s degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. Upon graduation he taught English and served as head of the middle school at The Stanley Clark School in South Bend, Indiana. Unfortunately, rheumatoid arthritis forced his early retirement. Dealing with this disability became a daily challenge but he always sought the silver lining in life and persevered with vigor, patience, and courage. Later he founded the Michiana Center for Independent Living, a business providing equipment for disabled persons. He also tutored and home-schooled children until his death.

Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon)Gilbert R. Smith died January 6, 2013. An Eagle Scout, he was a retired transportation director for the New Albany - Floyd County School Corp.

Iowa (Iota-Chi)Matthew J. “Jake” Duff died January 25, 2013. An associate member, he fought a courageous, year-long battle against brain cancer. He died one week before Initiation.

Kansas State (Gamma-Xi)The chapter added seven associate members this semester.

The chapter held a house project day that included installing new stair treads and a kitchen door.


CHAPTER NEWS



Associate Member Eli Gerber recently won the Hopwood Award for Underclassmen Non-fiction. His essay was an oral history of the life and passing of his brother, Sam, 15 years ago.

Kevin Manta is attending the cheerleading nationals for the fourth and final time this year as a part of the University of Michigan Cheer Team.

Millsaps (Theta-Eta)

Scott Crawford (1989) built a replica of Jackson, Mississippi, entirely out of LEGO blocks. The creation is primarily being used to inspire the city residents, but it’s also helping Crawford to distract himself from his multiple sclerosis.

Missouri S&T (Alpha-Delta)The chapter held Alumni Work-Day on January 19, 2013. Breakfast was served and several projects were accomplished including fixing railings, installing new lights, working on the deck, painting our Greek letters in the yard and on the house, and adding a new basketball goal to the deck.

Stan W. Manuel (1933) died August 2012. He was 102 years old.

Mercer (Zeta-Omega)The chapter conducted a Bag Drop fundraising event as part of the North American Food Drive. With more than 300 homes in Macon, Georgia, participating they raised more than 5,000 pounds of food for the Middle Georgia Food Bank.

Miami-OH (Zeta-Upsilon)The chapter placed third in the North American Food Drive, collecting 105,000 pounds of food.

The chapter added 20 associate members during fall recruitment. Leading these successful recruitment efforts were former chapter President Alek Lucke, new chapter President Rob Hadley, Vice President Peter Siegfried, former Recruitment Chairman Ryan Drusekis, and new Recruitment Chairman Britt Prescott.

Richard A. “Dick” Dill (1953) died July 1, 2012. He was a U.S. Army veteran and the owner of Dick Dill Business Forms. A former chapter president, Dill was a board member of the Louisiana Teen Challenge.

Michigan (Sigma)

The chapter added six associate members during winter recruitment, and two more in December.


CHAPTER NEWS



Montevallo (Sigma-Epsilon)

Nearly 75 undergraduate and alumni brothers gathered to celebrate the chapter’s 40th anniversary at the Hog Room in Pelham, Alabama.

New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha)

On December 15, 2012, the chapter conducted an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 10 brothers. Congratulations to: Ryne Anderson, Kyle Burgan, Cameron Dupuy, Brent Mahaffey, Jude Chatham, Kevan Richard, Cary Bailey, Philip Kranz, Tyler Mott, and Carson Smith.

The following brothers were elected to chapter officer positions for the next term: Garrett Stapp, president; Philip Kranz, external vice president; Jason Prechter, secretary; Nathan Favaloro, treasurer; Ryne Anderson, risk manager; Brandan

Bonds, fraternity educator; Jude Chatham, recruitment chairman; Derek Genusa, ritualist; Chris Podany, academic chairman; Kyle Burgan, social chairman; and Cameron Dupuy, alumni secretary.

New Mexico (Zeta-Mu Colony)Zeta-Mu Colony is starting our spring 2013 semester with a bang. We gave out two new bids and have started on our community service for the semester by helping out the Ronald McDonald House, where we cleaned up the play area and the parking lot. We are getting ready for Greek week 2013 and hope to win it this year.

North Carolina State (Gamma-Upsilon Colony)

Chapter Secretary Joe Furstenburg was hired as the intern coordinator for the newly-elected lieutenant governor of North Carolina, Dan Forest. He is responsible for hiring and managing all the interns. The photo shows Furstenburg (second from left) and his family with the Lt. Gov. Dan Forest (far right).


CHAPTER NEWS



Northwestern (Alpha-Iota)

Maurice “Ray” Rhinard Haase (1961) died November 9, 2012. After Northwestern, Ray began a career in insurance at Old Equity Insurance Company of Evanston, Illinois, where he ultimately led its direct marketing operation. In 1980 he joined Chicago-based Benefit Trust Life Insurance Co., now Trustmark of Lake Forest, Illinois. At Trustmark, he held leadership positions in communications, marketing and sales. He retired in 2003 as president and CEO of Starmark, Inc., a Trustmark subsidiary. Ray was a member of the Trustmark Management Committee, chaired the Trustmark Foundation and, most importantly, was a mentor and friend to many at the company.

Annie R. Henderson died December 25, 2012. She was 96 years old and spent 36 years working as the chapter’s cook and impacting the lives of hundreds of men over the years. Her signature dessert was Strawberry Monsters. She will be remembered for her great big smile, her involvement with her church, and her room behind the kitchen where she rested between meals in her chair with a small black and white television. She knew her great-grandchildren and lived to see pictures of her great-great-grandson. She loved gospel music, especially Amazing Grace and Precious Lord Take My Hand.

Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho)Joseph C. Ray (1950) died January 5, 2013.

Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta)Joseph W. Black Jr. (1970) died December 1, 2012. During his college years he served in the U.S. Army National Guard. It was soon after that he developed an enduring keenness for sales while traveling door-to-door selling pots and pans. Such was his commitment to his craft that he even mounted a frying pan as a hood ornament on his car. He advanced his career with the ownership and operation of Midwest Jewelry and then The Recognition Co.

Oregon (Zeta-Omicron)Randall Franke (1969) was selected as executive director of the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley serving Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties.

Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda)John B. Mason (1957) died January 14, 2013. Following graduation he served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He then began a 40-year career in flexible packaging sales with several national companies.

Pennsylvania (Epsilon)Wiles E. Converse died January 29, 2013. He became a university professor after graduation and then worked for Bausch & Lomb during the week and excelled at racing sailboats of all types with his family and friends on the weekends. In the evenings, he continued teaching business courses at the local academic institutions. After retiring from B&L, Wiles was a successful independent businessman owning and operating the Financial Business Service.


CHAPTER NEWS



Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 10 brothers.

The chapter finished second of all fraternities, with a 3.0 GPA for the fall 2012 semester. The new associate members had the highest GPA on campus.

Robert Estes (1969) was selected as the senior district court judge of the state of Nevada.

Rensselaer (Epsilon-Eta)

On December 2, 2012, the chapter added 12 associate members. Once these new members are initiated the chapter will surpass 1,300 initiated brothers of Epsilon-Eta.

William R. Murphy (1952) died December 8, 2012. After graduation, he moved to Hicksville, New York, to work for Grumman Aircraft Co. where he was instrumental in the design and development of the A-6 Intruder attack aircraft, and later the Gulfstream executive business jets with Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. in Savannah, Georgia.

Rose-Hulman (Theta-Kappa)In December the chapter brothers held their annual Christmas party for the children of Ryves Hall. During the party they

played games, did crafts, and gave the children presents.

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 14 brothers on January 25, 2013. Many of the brothers from the Iota-Epsilon Colony at Indiana State University also attended the Ritual.

Laurence Logue (1959) died January 13, 2013. A former chapter president, Logue taught at Rose-Hulman until he moved to Gainesville, Florida, where he pursued a doctorate in physics. After earning his doctorate he was awarded a post-doctorate research position at the University of Sussex in Brighton, England. Upon his return to the states he accepted a teaching position in the Department of Physics at Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland. In 1977 he moved to Marietta, Georgia, to become an assistant professor of physics and chemistry at the Southern Technical Institute (now Southern Polytechnic State University). He became the head of that department before moving to the Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology as its head. After serving in that position for a number of years he returned to being a full-time faculty member. He was promoted to associate professor, and then to full professor before retiring in 2002 as professor emeritus.

South Dakota (Alpha-Gamma)The chapter performed an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for five brothers: Nick Bratvold, Eric Roach, Lucas VanErmen, Ryan Everson, and Tre Gillaspie.

The House Corporation and several other alumni brothers helped remodel the third floor bathroom.

JP Dempsey was elected IFC scholarship chair.

South Dakota Mines Colony (Colony 298)

The colony added six associate members.

Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi)

Nick Maddock was elected IFC president and Patrick Vining was elected IFC vice president.

The chapter added four associate members during the first few


CHAPTER NEWS



designed to foster improved relationships among campus leaders through an intensive, interactive two and one half day program.

On January 26, 2013, chapter brothers participated in a brotherhood bonding trip to the Mineral Wells State Park for rock climbing and a cookout.

On January 27, 2013, chapter brothers volunteered in a highway clean-up in Bluff Dale, Texas.

Texas A&M Kingsville (Beta-Epsilon)

The alumni held their 4th annual Christmas Party on December 23, 2012, in Harlingen, Texas. At the event each guest brought a Christmas present for a needy child. The gifts were sorted, wrapped, and delivered to local area families that had been identified by local schools and churches.

Texas-El Paso (Zeta-Epsilon)

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for six brothers.

Annuar Jauregui graduated in December 2012 and began his new career as an application support analyst for the Exxon Mobile Corp. in Houston, Texas.

weeks of formal spring recruitment.

The chapter kicked off its indoor soccer season by being ranked second in the preseason tournament.

Tampa Bay Area Alumni Association

The Tampa Bay Area Alumni Association held a semi-formal event on November 11, 2012, at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, the historic site of the oldest restaurant in the Tampa Bay Area. Approximately 30 alumni brothers and their dates participated in the event. During the event Phil Hart (Embry-Riddle 1975) was presented with the 2012 LCAAATB Alumni of the Year Award for his dedication and commitment to the Alumni Association. The association also awarded three $600 scholarships to Wilfredo Herrera (Florida), David Bentley (Florida Southern), and Shem Opolot (Florida Southern).

Tarleton State (Phi-Rho)

On January 18-20, 2013, chapter brothers participated in the NIC’s IMPACT program, a campus-based leadership institute


CHAPTER NEWS



The original keynote speaker, Butch Alburico, was unable to attend due to health issues.

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 18 brothers.

Chapter brothers won the intramural football championship.

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)On January 24, 2013, the chapter added 15 associate members.

The chapter was presented with its fifth consecutive award for highest GPA for a Greek organization on campus.

Wisconsin-Whitewater (Lambda-Iota Colony)

The colony’s chartering banquet is scheduled for March 2013.

Worcester (Pi)Steven C. Halstedt (1968) and Michael Zarrilli (1971) are members of the Board of Trustees.

Jim Daily (1963) retired from Verizon and Lucent Technologies 10 years ago. He spent most of his career abroad in the Middle East and Asia in senior management positions, accompanied by his wife, the former Jeanne Baker of Auburn, Massachusetts, whom he met and married in Worcester 49 years ago.

Robert Kennedy (1967) retired from MIT Draper & Lincoln Labs and is now a professor of computer technology at Massasoit Community College in Brockton, Massachusetts.

Richard Wheeler (1977) completed the executive development program in May 2012 at the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania. He is currently president of Capewell Components LLC, that has facilities in Cromwell and South Windsor, Connecticut, the United Kingdom, and Shanghai, China.

Tulsa (Epsilon-Upsilon)The chapter hosted several brotherhood events, including a bowling night and several sports tournaments.

The chapter added four associate members during spring recruitment.

Valparaiso (Iota-Sigma)The chapter added 11 associate members.

The chapter held a fundraiser Red Robin, which management said was one of the most successful events.

Chapter brothers volunteered at Café Manna, the local soup kitchen.

Virginia Commonwealth (Colony 292)David Huffine (North Carolina-Greensboro 1984), a former Lambda Chi Professional Staff member and current colony advisor, attended his first Fraternity Board meeting.

Wabash (Alpha-Kappa)

The chapter held its third annual TRUE Brotherhood Dinner on October 27, 2012, at the Hilton Hotel in Indianapolis. The event honored the induction of Dr. Melissa Butler into the chapter’s Hall of Fame. Notable brothers in attendance were John Fischer, Tim Doyle, Frank Hagaman, and Jeff Todd. Overall, nearly 100 alumni, undergraduates, and guests attended the event. Former Grand High Alpha Ted Grossnickle gave a state of the Fraternity address as well as a chapter update.


FEATURE

“ W H AT I S T H AT ? ”

A simple question posed to famous makeup artist Michael Westmore unmasks a world of cutting-edge advancements, notable achievements, and intriguing stories from an industry that serves as the face for the television and film industries.

Beauty, Brushes, and Borgs

By Andrew Talevich (Washington State)

It’s the most common question a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Professional Staff is asked by visitors when they receive a tour of the International Headquarters building in Indianapolis.

The question is asked after seeing the sculpture: a bronze bust wearing geometric parts on its head, with tubes jutting out on all sides, and with a sophisticated, kaleidoscopic eyepiece.


FEATURE

To answer it I’ve come to the the foothills of Los Angeles and the home of Michael Westmore (California-Santa Barbara 1961). Westmore informs me that the creation is called a Borg and that he created its head during his 18 years as the makeup artist/supervisor for the Star Trek franchise.

His unique makeup designs, that pushed the fantasy genre into new realms, can be seen on Star Trek: Next Generation; Star Trek: First Contact; Start Trek: Deep Space Nine; Star Trek: Voyager; and Star Trek: Enterprise.

Upon receiving Lambda Chi Alpha’s Order of Achievement award at the summer Leadership Conference in Iowa in 2001, Westmore presented the Borg sculpture to the General Fraternity as a token of his appreciation.

Iconic Moments

Along with Westmore’s story about the Borg and how it became a featured exhibit within Lambda Chi Alpha’s International Headquarters building, he also shared tales of several amazing artistic features he was associated with, and that included some of Hollywood’s most iconic moments.

For example, in the movie Raging Bull, director Martin Scorsese tasked Westmore to present the illusion of boxer Jake La Motta, played by Robert De Niro, breaking the nose of his opponent, Tony Janiro. For the actor playing Janiro, Westmore created a fake nose with a small teeter totter concealed

inside. Within De Niro’s boxing glove he installed a tube connected to a syringe of blood.

“As De Niro made contact with Janiro’s face and nose, the blood squirted out of his glove and over his opponent’s face. Janiro’s nose could be made to appear broken by pressing down on the teeter totter and raising it up underneath the surface of the latex nose. When Scorsese said he wanted a second take, I simply pushed the latex nose back into place

and reset the teeter totter.” he said.

In Rocky, another famous boxing movie, Westmore transformed Sylvester Stallone’s face into a mangled mess for the final fight scene. In the last round Rocky’s trainers needed to cut open his swollen eyelid so he could see, and Westmore created a fake razor device to complete the illusion.

“I took the ball off of a squirting flower and brazed a small metal tube onto the backside of a razor blade. I then dulled the edge of the real razor blade so there would be no accidents. The ball was filled with fake blood and pushed onto the end of the metal tube. During the scene the rubber ball was hidden in the palm of the corner man’s hand so, when Rocky said ‘cut me,’ all he had to do was run the blade over Rocky’s swollen latex eyelid and squeeze the ball at the same time. On camera, as the blood dripped down, Rocky’s eyelid appeared to be immediately sliced,” Westmore said.

Because of the critical acclaim that Rocky generated, Westmore and Stallone began a partnership that would last for the next eight years. The two are still friends today and a life mask of Stallone’s face, along with his boxing gloves from Rocky, are showcased at Westmore’s house.

Westmore will always be tied to his cutting-edge work on the set of Star Trek. For the creation of the Borg in Star Trek: First Contact, his son, Michael Westmore Jr., integrated all the electronics into the Borg’s eyepieces.

Each one of the 32 eyepieces contained colored lights that would blink. What most people didn’t know was that Michael Jr. set the Borg eyepieces to blink in Morse code, spelling out the names of pets and people on set.

“If you knew Morse code, you could read it through the blinking eye. He did it out of boredom,” Westmore said.

These stories illustrate how Westmore and his crew of makeup artists became masters in a unique field that has been seen by millions and brought the Hollywood film industry to new heights.


FEATURE

From Lambda Chi to Hollywood

Westmore enrolled at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1958. At that time, the pre-1960’s revolution era, Santa Barbara was a smaller, quieter town. By the time Westmore graduated in 1961 the enrollment on campus had doubled and Santa Barbara was an attraction for a new wave of surfers and youth looking to travel west.

During Westmore’s junior year he joined the Lambda Chi Alpha chapter. The men had recently moved into a new house on campus and Westmore enjoyed the tight-knit brotherhood.

“Many of the men were Vietnam veterans. They weren’t harassing and displaying the degrading pledging that other houses were doing. When my roommate Richard Williams and I were weighing the different options of the Greek houses we elected to pledge Lambda Chi Alpha,” Westmore said.

After being a member of the chapter for a year, Westmore was put into an unexpected leadership role.

“I had been there enjoying the fraternity and the fellowship. The time came to nominate a new High Alpha and I was nominated on a white ballot, so I became the new High Alpha and I didn’t realize that the brothers thought that much of me at that time. It was a life-changing moment. I had responsibilities that I’d never had before,” he said.

He credits this leadership capacity for his later work when he had to manage as many as 100 makeup artists and hairstylists at one time and on different movie sets.

Outside of the chapter Westmore was majoring in and studying Art History at UC Santa Barbara; another early decision that would suite him well in later life.

“It was great because I had to do a lot of research. Part of art history is literally studying and participating

in painting, drawing, sculpting; you take all these classes to be able to understand the medium. So it definitely was the beginning of my career as a makeup artist,” he said.

The Start of Stardom

After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, Westmore planned to get his master’s degree at the University of California, Los Angeles. But first, Westmore’s uncle Bud, who was the head of the makeup department at Universal Studios, convinced Westmore to take an apprenticeship under him and John Chambers, an award-winning makeup artist. (See more information below.)

This full-time job would eventually lead to a life-long passion.

Westmore would give up his ambitions to earn his master’s degree and dive into the world of beauty makeup, prosthetics, and special effects.

The first film that Westmore worked


FEATURE

on was Flower Drum Song, followed by The List of Adrian Messenger which included the largest budget for makeup at that time. The film featured Kirk Douglas who wore several different disguises throughout the movie, plus Tony Curtis, Robert Mitchum, and Frank Sinatra.

“At Universal I received a really good background in disguise and reality makeup and how to change the looks of people with latex earlobes, cheeks, noses, lips, false teeth, contact lenses, beards, and wigs,” Westmore said.

Westmore’s 50 year career in the Hollywood makeup industry can really be split into two parts. The first part of his career mostly focused on reality-based alterations in character. Westmore worked at Universal Studios and then transitioned to a career as a freelance artist. During this time, Westmore’s popular projects included The Munsters, Land of the Lost, Rocky, Raging Bull, First Blood, and Mask (which earned him an Academy Award), as well as 2010 and The Clan of the Cave Bear (Academy Nominations for both).

The second half of his career focused primarily on the makeup for the Star Trek television series and feature films that extended throughout the late 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s. His 18 years as the makeup designer and supervisor for Star Trek pushed the boundaries of imagination and created a world cemented in mind-altering science fiction.

For his work with Star Trek, Westmore won five Emmy Awards and 20 nominations. Prior to Star Trek he won 4 Emmy awards and another 22 nominations.

The Westmore Family Name

It’s no wonder how or why Westmore grew to such fame in Hollywood as one of the most sought after makeup artists of his generation. His family roots are filled with a rich history of makeup advances that brought the industry to the forefront in Hollywood.

Westmore’s grandfather, George Henry Westmore, established the first movie makeup department in 1917. Michael

Westmore’s father, Monte George Westmore, continued the legacy of brilliant makeup artistry for his work on Gone with the Wind in 1939.

Michael Westmore’s daughter McKenzie has kept the family name familiar in Hollywood. She is currently the host of the SyFy Channel’s reality series, Face Off, which features prosthetic makeup artists competing against each other for a cash prize.

In each episode the makeup artists are given the task of creating the makeup for a character with a specific theme. The themes are often outside-the-box, such as re-creating Alice in Wonderland characters as demons.

“So the producers invent mind-twisting ideas for the contestants to bring to life, and the curiosity of the viewing audience has grown tremendously,” Westmore said.

The makeup teams or individual artists have a limited time to create the sculptures, molds, and prosthetics for their characters. They are then judged on their work and one team or person


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is eliminated from each episode.

The fourth season of Face Off premiered on Monday, January 15, 2013. The show continues to build upon the success of the last three seasons. In the last season, Face Off garnered between 3 and 4 million viewers for each episode. Face Off has been credited with bringing the relatively unknown world of Hollywood makeup artistry into the limelight.

“It’s been behind the curtain. The craft was secret as to how we did all these magic things. Then Face Off comes out and explains the process and you the viewer get to see it from beginning to end,” Westmore said.

Westmore serves as a mentor in the show, helping the young amateur artists generate ideas and strategies to enhance their projects.

As Westmore continues to stay busy with Face Off, he remains proud of how his family has ingrained itself into Hollywood.

“The whole Michael Westmore clan is involved with show biz. Michael, my son, is an electronic genius and also a film editor. My daughter, Michele, is the controller of a major entertainment firm. McKenzie is the actress and Marion, my wife and soul mate, was a model for the famous costume designer Edith Head,” he said.

Life Goes on

Westmore has retired from carrying a makeup case as a Hollywood makeup artist after working on Star Trek: Enterprise in 2005. When he first slowed down from the film makeup industry he had trouble adjusting to his new life because he was accostomed to the long work days required on the set of Star Trek. In 2006 and 2007 he designed and created 10 different makeup looks for an East Indian film, but at a more leisurely pace.

“I really wanted to do something more so I decided to transcribe my notes from 2003 and write my memoirs,” he said.

Michael Westmore - Argo Connection

In addition to Westmore’s illustrious Hollywood career as a makeup artist, he also had a short stint with the CIA and was mentored by the individual who assisted in orchestrating the Hol-lywood/Canadian Caper.

John Chambers (see above), who mentored Westmore early in his career on the set of The List of Adrian Messenger, is portrayed in the movie Argo.

In 1979 the United States embassy in Tehran, Iran, was overrun by Islamist militants. As a result, six diplomats were trapped in Iran. To rescue these diplomats the CIA and Canadian government initiated a covert mission.

Chambers and other unknown agents came up with the idea to insert a CIA official into Iran as a movie producer and mislead Iranian govern-ment officials by claiming the Hollywood crew was in Iran to scout locations for a film called Argo, when in fact the mission was to locate and extradite the diplomats.

When Chambers was worried that his popular-ity and fame in Hollywood might compromise the mission, he stepped away from it while Robert Sidell and his wife, also friends of West-more, helped front the project.

The mission was a success. Chambers and the Sidells were secretly credited with playing an integral part in saving the lives of those diplomats.

Chambers’ and especially Slidell’s extraordi-nary story came to light in several documenta-ries. Westmore and a number of other writers published columns and stories on the makeup artist’s role in the crisis. Recently the story was made into the movie Argo, which is directed by Ben Affleck and which won the Golden Globe award for Best Drama.

T h e m a k e u p o f M a s k , w h i c h e a r n e d h i m a n a c a d e m y a w a r d


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Westmore has almost finished his memoirs that will profile his career, family background, and personal achievements. He expects to finalize them this year and send the manuscript to a publisher. He and Marion also help raise their grandson Maddox.

Once each year Westmore, and a group of Lambda Chi Alpha brothers who lived together in the Santa Barbara chapter, meet for a weekend of camaraderie and dinner.

“The chapter house at Santa Barbara, I would say, left me with fond memories. I loved helping in the kitchen; we’re talking breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My best friends were my fraternity brothers,” he said.

Westmore said he always looks forward to the fellowship and conversation that each reunion brings.

“The time we spend together is precious as we relive our bonds and campus life,” he said.

In the movie, actor John Goodman portrays John Chambers and the character of Lester Siegel, played by Alan Arkin, is very loosely based on Robert Sidell.

“I’ve known the story for a long time but I wasn’t able to talk about it. In the beginning Canada was credited with the caper only to disguise America’s involvement,” Westmore said.

Chambers eventually brought Westmore into the CIA years after the Hollywood/Canadian Caper.

The art of makeup and effective disguises were an integral part of the CIA’s operation around the world.

“I would love to tell you more but it’s on a need-to-know basis,” Westmore said.

McKenzie Westmore on promo for Face Off


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On the Monday evening before Thanksgiving break the dining room of the Epsilon-Sigma chapter house at the University of California, Los Angeles, is packed with members for the election of officers. Men are dressed formally, each intently listening as, one-by-one, initiated brothers and associate members make their case as to why they should fill the various officer roles.\

The position of scholastic chairman alone brings forward six worthy candidates. In all, 22 brothers are running for office; almost one quarter of the chapter.

“The most recent election process has really demonstrated to us how many brothers are capable of leading effectively. I think that our chapter has started, and will continue to provide opportunities for everyone to shine,” said Yonatan Alon. He was the outgoing scholastic chairman from last fall’s elections and now serves as treasurer.

The number of interested brothers running for officer positions at Epsilon-Sigma highlights the resurgence of a chapter that re-colonized four years earlier.

After re-colonizing four years ago, the men of Epsilon-Sigma have established themselves at UCLA with a membership of around 100 brothers. The chapter won UCLA’s Standards of Excellence Award and attained the highest GPA of all fraternities on campus for the previous two semesters.

Back in Action



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In 2000 the chapter was closed as a result of repeated incidents. After an eight year absence on the UCLA campus, re-colonization efforts were made during the fall of 2008 and spring of 2009. By the next fall Epsilon-Sigma had initiated 41 brothers and, by 2010, the colony had met all of its chartering standards and had gained approval from the Grand High Zeta to become a chapter.

After their charter was approved the chapter experienced immense improvement in the areas of total membership and grade point average. In the fall of 2011 they recruited 28 associate members and their membership jumped from 47 to 75 men. The chapter’s GPA has also continuously climbed since they were first colonized.

Last year the men of Epsilon-Sigma won UCLA’s Greek Week. They also received the 2012 Standards of Excellence award, the top award given to a fraternity on campus.

The chapter initiated 24 new members last week, bringing their membership to around 100. They have put a cap on the total number of brothers they recruit, allowing the officers to better manage the safety of the house and to only select top quality men.

Previous Chapter President Ian McRae

The previous president of the chapter, Ian McRae, now serves as the Grand High Psi.

What do you believe is the strongest factor that the chapter has going for it?

\“The strongest factor that Epsilon-Sigma has going for it is that it’s full of brothers who are extremely capable, but aren’t arrogant. Modesty is commonly found in the house; excitement over a brother’s successes are sincere and celebrated; and our group values reflect the seven core values.”

What are some of the biggest challenges that the chapter is facing?

“Some of the biggest challenges that the house is facing are the graduation of a lot of seniors who were very involved in the chapter. Although we have worked hard to have a smooth transition with the new officers of the house, the seniors are the last ones to have seen the house at its beginnings. The hard work required to build and to keep up a great house have not yet been realized by the younger ones.”

As far as the younger members, have you seen any potential in their leadership, and if so, what has impressed you most about them?

“I have seen immense leadership in the younger guys. In fact a sophomore was elected to the position of High Alpha. Dedication would be the most common factor; dedication to making the house better, dedication to upholding moral values, and dedication to each other.”

Current Chapter President Mike Witous

Mike Witous is the sophomore president of the Epsilon-Sigma chapter. Witous knew about Lambda Chi Alpha long before he decided to enroll at UCLA. In the late 1970s his father, Jeff Witous, was a founder at California Polytechnic State University’s Phi-Sigma Zeta. Jeff also served as a board member for the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation.

Building upon the lessons he has learned from his father and older members of his chapter, Mike has gained a deep-rooted passion for Lambda Chi Alpha.

How have the younger members built from the foundations set by older members?

“To begin with, the foundation isn’t set. The older members leveled the ground and we’re putting down the stakes. The last wave of older members is still active, ensuring that their work is picked up with the same tenacity needed to make Epsilon-Sigma a thriving house on the UCLA campus. One of the activities we hosted leading up to initiation was called


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for all that they have done for us, and for the sage advice they provide. This house is making many of our college experiences and shaping us into leaders of good character who will go off to achieve great things.”

Housing Corporation President Tom Fagan

Tom Fagan (1969) is currently Epsilon-Sigma Zeta’s housing corporation president. Serving as an alumnus volunteer for over 40 years, he has worked with the chapter through the best of times and the worst of times. One of the low points for the chapter occurred after its closure on the UCLA campus in 2000. During that time the housing corporation board had to manage the chapter house, which sits in the heart of UCLA’s Greek Row, as a boarding house.

‘Senior Sentiments.’ This entailed letting seniors describe their fond memories and all that went into growing the house to what we see today. Looking at the level of engagement among associate members and the seniors in the spotlight affirmed the outstanding caliber of men we recruit. We chose guys with an appreciation for hard work and progress.”

“A famous quotation by Newton comes to mind. It reads, ‘If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.’ This quote holds true for the relationship between younger and older members. In some ways it applies even more to our relationship with Epsilon-Sigma’s Housing Corporation. Without hesitation we all know that our existence as a chapter would be impossible without the robust support of our dedicated alumni. We are so grateful

E p s i l o n - S i g m a c h a p t e r b e f o r e a b r o t h e r h o o d h i k e E p s i l o n - S i g m a b r o t h e r s h o s t i n g c u l t u r a l d i n n e r

T h e c h a p t e r v o l u n t e e r i n g a t t h e B o y s a n d G i r l s C l u b o f S a n t a M o n i c a A s s o c i a t e m e m b e r s a t t h e c h a p t e r h o u s e


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Fagan credits fellow housing corporation members Michael LaCroix, Tom Larson, David Adelman, and Ron Sarian for their hard work in ensuring that the men of Epsilon-Sigma Zeta would still have a house once recolonization took place.

Some of the high points for Fagan include participating in recent High Zeta meetings at the chapter house, presiding at the chartering banquet in May 2010 when Epsilon-Sigma Zeta was officially re-established as a chapter, and attending last summer’s General Assembly with seven other chapter members.

In the past few years the UCLA chapter has had its ups and downs. What were the factors that caused the chapter to come back so strongly during the re-colonization period?

“The existing Board held things together for the eight years following the suspension. Influential and determined alumni contributed funds and exerted influence and effort in convincing the UCLA administration and leadership at National Fraternity to allow recolonization to occur. The Board, with the help of Robert Frackelton and his fellow alumni brothers, worked with the National Fraternity’s recruitment team to find a small number of [high] achieving students and leaders on campus to provide the impetus for the new colony and chapter. This suffered a few stops and starts before taking root, attaining sufficient traction, identifying leaders, and achieving critical mass. This only happened because volunteers from the Corporation Board and dedicated alumni from Frackelton’s team and the National Fraternity pitched in to maintain the momentum and provide needed direction. The key was recruiting the right type of student.”

How can the chapter sustain excellence as a new batch of young men take leadership roles?

“The bottom line is that we need to nurture what we have started here at Epsilon-Sigma; we have the right types of individuals, students with immense potential as leaders and achievers and that are the ultimate objective of the True Brother Initiative and what we strive for as Lambda Chis. This rootstock must be nurtured, mentored, and encouraged to meet the high standards of our brotherhood that will ultimately serve them in their own lives and careers and

meet the longer term ideals of our Fraternity as well.”

Previous Scholastic Chairman Yonatan Alon

In order to strengthen the members in the chapter, the men of Epsilon-Sigma have made academics a cornerstone of their chapter. As the previous scholastic chairman, Yonatan Alon digitized materials that would help his brothers to study for their classes. His hard work in this officer role helped his chapter achieve tremendous academic success.

What are some notable achievements in regards to your chapter’s academics?

“The last two quarters (spring and fall of 2012) our chapter achieved the highest GPA of all the fraternities at UCLA. In spring our average GPA was 3.344 whereas the fraternity average was 3.229 and the all men’s average was 3.197. We are on track to do the same this quarter; to make a full year with Lambda Chi Alpha as the reigning academic champions.”

What advice did you give to the incoming High Sigma?

“The incoming Sigma was told a number of things. First, we have had some successful events where brothers taught other brothers a certain skill that they were especially adept at. The new Sigma will work towards making these events regular and consistent. Additionally, the Sigma will work towards making cultural excursions to various landmarks in the greater Los Angeles area.”

Previous Recruitment Chairman, Evan Laveman

Evan Laveman is the previous recruitment chairman for Epsilon-Sigma. He joined the chapter in the fall of 2009, shortly after the re-colonization. He served first as risk manager, then spent two consecutive years as the recruitment chairman. During his tenure in this later position he oversaw seven recruitment periods, which brought in over 150 new brothers to the chapter.


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How has the chapter’s education program contributed to the growth and success of the chapter?

“A solid education program has been a healthy attribute of the chapter in multiple ways. First and foremost, it has helped to produce and mold high quality guys, instilling our values in them, while providing them with a unique experience. I think most people will agree that guys with good potential can be wasted if they are not properly acclimated to the Lambda Chi Alpha environment. On the flip side, a well-developed program can build stronger and better active brothers that continue to give back to the house.”

“Another way the education program has contributed to growth is through the Kappa committee. A strong committee of engaged and excited guys is certainly an indicator of growth and, hopefully, success, if done right. This is especially true when considering that such a committee did not exist before.”

What are your expectations for the future of the Epsilon-Sigma chapter?

“I have high expectations for the house in the future; primarily to continue to remain in the place it has made for itself. I know that it is very easy for houses to become complacent, especially after a year or two of solid performance. I think that the next two to three years will be telling ones for Ep-Sig; it will be easy to fall and hard to stay successful. I have full faith that the brothers here will continue to work hard and will always be looking for what they can do differently or better.”

Alumni Communicator, MJ Harness

There remains a large contingency of loyal Epsilon-Sigma alumni. A web site called “The Old Bros Network”, created by MJ Harness, serves as a forum for over 300 brothers. Information such as obituaries, upcoming events, and updates on alumni can be found on this site. Many

How important of a role is recruitment at Epsilon-Sigma?

“Our recruitment strategy was essential to the formation of our chapter. Had we not sought out UCLA’s leaders to be a part of our chapter we would have suffered the same fate as the other three fraternities that also attempted to recolonize in the fall of 2009. The ability to recruit successfully, and with an educated perspective, is paramount to the success of fraternities, especially those that are re-colonizing. This is why I chose to devote my time within the chapter to promoting our recruitment efforts. Every time rush comes around I get that same excitement and that same drive to fill the house with members that we’re proud to have as associates.”

What are some of the strongest factors that the chapter has going for itself?

“Our members care about the house. We recruit the right people, treat them in the right way through our Kappa program, and produce motivated members that remain proud of their house all the way up until their graduation. Having risen so quickly from a colony to one of UCLA’s premier chapters, we realize how much work goes into not only creating, but maintaining a successful fraternity. Other houses on our campus have failed because their members became disenchanted with their house and with its fleeting values. We have strong leaders who perpetuate not only the structure but the spirit of our fraternity, and I feel blessed to be a part of such an involved and invested membership.”

Previous Fraternity Educator, Brett Bowers

Brett Bowers, along with Andrew McCarthy, served as the fraternity educator from 2009 to 2012. During their two years in this position Bowers and McCarthy improved the education model, introduced a Kappa Committee, and sought out new volunteer opportunities. Bowers feels that the Kappa program has set a high bar for future fraternity educators to successfully integrate new members into the fraternity.


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Epsilon-Sigma brothers are also looking forward to the annual alumni meeting in early April. During that time, the alumni will celebrate the 90th birthday of their former cook and house mother, Florida Taylor, together with her and her family.

Harness hopes that the Old Bro Network can continue to evolve to bring more Epsilon-Sigma alumni together.

What are the benefits of keeping an open network with all generations of brothers from your chapter?

“It provides a central place where anyone can share news, not only about their times in the house, but also about what’s going on in their lives today. It’s been very inspiring to hear about the achievements of brothers from all the different eras of our chapter, and the idea of the Old Bro Network is that we have a forum to celebrate those things amongst us, as well as to look back on and remember our life and times while we were actually in the house as undergrads at UCLA.”

Has there always been a tight-knit group of Epsilon-Sigma brothers?

“I believe there have always been small, tight-knit groups of Ep-Sigs from the various eras, but the Old Bro Network has been able to expand those groups and, in addition, to bring them together on occasion. For instance, one of the Old Bro’s hosted an ‘Ep-Sig Summer Reunion’ party that was attended by eighty to a hundred Old Bros, from ‘60s era to the current High Alpha. There have been lunch get-togethers, golf outings, an annual trip to Lake Tahoe, football tailgates, etc. Having the ability to communicate better amongst our group has helped to facilitate some of these, and the Old Bro Network is just happy to play a small part in helping to make some of those things happen.”

What are the reactions you have received about the resurgence of the Epsilon-Sigma?

“We are all incredibly proud of the job our ‘New Bros’ have done at UCLA. Several of the ‘Old Bros’ attended the Re-Chartering Banquet, at which we presented the undergrads with a fundraising check to show them that our support for Ep-Sig at UCLA does not waver. The chapter house has done a remarkable job in establishing themselves as one of the top houses at UCLA in a very short period of time.” =

H i g h Z e t a r e t r e a t H i g h Z e t a r e t r e a t

A s s o c i a t e M e m b e r s

P u m p k i n S m a s h

Th e S t a n d a rd s o f E x c e l l e n c e Aw a rd B r o t h e r s h i k i n g


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I t’s the middle of a pleasant November day in Burbank,

California. I sit down at Mo’s Restaurant with Walt Becker,

director of Van Wilder and Wild Hogs who now runs his

own production company.

Two Los Angeles producers discuss their roles in the movie and television industry and share how an unlikely group of fraternity brothers became stars in Hollywood.

Artisans of Entertainment


Conversation around us is permeated with the buzz of current film projects. The woman in the booth behind us speaks to her friend about an upcoming zombie movie she’s working on. We are at the epicenter of the television and movie capital of the world.

“That old cliché, it’s not what you know but who know, is particularly true here,” Becker said. “It just makes business a lot easier; especially when you can develop a great relationship over the course of a project.”

Through his production company, The Walt Becker Company, he is currently working on several feature films as well as scripted and unscripted television shows that include collaborations with such people as Kelsey Grammer, Paris Hilton, and YouTube sensation Toby Turner, and for studios such as TBS, E!, VH1, Universal Pictures, and Fox Digital Studio.

Trevor Kirschner, who in 1989 was initiated with Becker into Epsilon-Sigma, is also a producer who works in the Los Angeles area. His expertise is in the post-production of sitcom television. He is currently working as an associate producer on a Nickelodeon pilot called The Haunted Hathaways.

Becker and Kirschner aren’t the only ones from their fraternity to carve out successful careers in the film and television industry.

Actors Will Forte (Saturday Night Live), Brian Van Holt (Cougar Town), and Billy Brown (Dexter; The Following) all lived together at Epsilon-Sigma and enjoyed the same brotherhood experiences throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.

David Neuman, a Peabody Award winning television producer, was an undergraduate in the chapter a few years

Artisans of Entertainment

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before Becker and Kirschner, and served as a professional mentor to Kirschner.

Becker said, “We were a very Hollywood-centric group. Literally in the few years that we were there, there were a bunch of guys that you wouldn’t expect to come up in Hollywood together.”

For him the nostalgic memories of his Lambda Chi Alpha brotherhood translated into projects he would direct later on in his career. For the TV show Glory Daze, which he co-wrote and directed, a group of young men join a fraternity at fictional Hayes University in Indiana. Much of the show is based upon Becker’s personal experiences in the fraternity.

In 2006 he directed Wild Hogs staring Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy. In this film four middle-aged men embark upon a motorcycle trip that turns into a series of misadventures. Becker was chosen to direct the movie in part because of a motorcycle trip he had made with Lambda Chi Alpha brothers shortly after graduating from UCLA. During that trip Becker and four other brothers rode Harley-Davidson motorcycles throughout Europe. “We had a lot of crazy times. [Wild Hogs] was very reminiscent of that first trip.”

After taking a year off and traveling, Becker enrolled at the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts where he graduated in 1995 and went on to write two novels. His first was an adventure-thriller called Link. The second, Misconception, Becker co-wrote with

Robert Shapiro, one of the famous defense attorneys who represented O.J. Simpson.

Becker’s writing was his entrance into directing and producing. He worked with Disney for several years. After his contract expired in 2008, he developed The Walt Becker Company to pitch ideas, write scripts, and to shoot, produce, and direct shows or films.

Kirschner, in a way similar to that of Becker, did not have a solid grasp on a career choice during the time leading up to his graduation at UCLA. He was a history major but decided to take a part-time job as a personal assistant at Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions.After graduating, Kirschner remained with the production company for eight years and worked as an assistant editor where he learned the ropes of post-production editing.

“The whole process, from after the shooting of the show until it premiered, was an incredible education for what I’m doing now,” he said.

Since 2001 Kirschner has worked with numerous studios including Warner Brothers, Tom Lynch Company, ABC Studios, and Nickelodeon as an associate producer, co-producer, and director. Kirschner feels that one of the main misconceptions people have about Hollywood is that they often overlook the long hours and dedication that go into completing a successful production.

“It’s not as glamorous a process as people outside of

Cross & Crescent November 2012 24www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent

K i r s c h n e r w i t h U C L A b r o t h e r s K i r s c h n e r a n d f a m i l y


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Hollywood envision it to be. It’s a lot of hard work, a lot of hours, but it’s fun and rewarding too. Every day is a different challenge,” he said.

Becker echoes that sentiment but he also sees a uniqueness in the work that is produced in Hollywood in comparison to other industries. Rather than creating just a product, Becker is also crafting an idea that has the potential to resonate with people for long periods of time.

“In some ways you are selling air and taking it out of imagination and putting it onto paper,” he said. “Even though the hours are super long and the process is sort of like pushing rocks uphill…you always get a chance to leave something behind.”

Becker and Kirschner credit their Lambda Chi Alpha experience with equipping them with the necessary skills to achieve success in Hollywood.

“Real growth for me was greatly enhanced by being in a fraternity,” Kirschner said. “Learning how to cohabitate with 80, 90 guys under one roof; how to keep an organization functioning; all of it is something that you take with you for the rest of your life.”

During their undergraduate years Becker served as the social chairman for a year with Aaron Wright while Kirschner served as the recruitment chairman with Tom

Turley. Kirschner and Turley reunited recently to serve as co-advisors to the chapter during its re-colonization on the UCLA campus. (see “Back in Action”)

As the wheels of Hollywood are always spinning, Kirschner wouldn’t be surprised if the brothers from his chapter, and with whom he has a personal relationship, would form a professional relationship on future film and television projects.

“It’s only a matter of time before we work together,” he said. “As big as this city is, and as many people are in it, it’s a small town.”

K i r s c h n e r o n t h e s e t o f L e s s T h a n P e r f e c t

P r o d u c e r a n d D i r e c t o r, Wa l t B e c k e r

Cross & Crescent February 201326www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent Cross & Crescent February 201326www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent

FRATERNITY NEWS

By Marcus Kelley (Angelo State)

More than 70 alumni brothers representing 45 chapters attended this annual two-day training session in Indianapolis. 2013 Neville Advisor’s College

Conducted from January 10-12, 2013, at the Omni Severin Hotel in downtown Indianapolis, the forth annual Ronald A. Neville Advisor’s College was hosted by the General Fraternity.

A total of 70 alumni brothers, including High Pis, house corporation members, and chapter advisors attended programs facilitated by a talented mix of the alumni themselves, as well as industry experts and professional staff members.

Advisor’s College is Lambda Chi Alpha’s developmental program for alumni engaged in advising undergraduate chapters. Comprised of multiple tracks, Advisor’s College helps educate and prepare alumni to be successful in employing a wide range of teaching and mentoring skills, all grounded in the Fraternity’s values-based TRUE Brother Initiative and Learning Model.

Based upon Lambda Chi Alpha’s Seven Core Values — Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Service & Stewardship, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage — advisors are trained to guide, facilitate, and support the development and internalization of a personal identity for each undergraduate.

P h o t o s c o u r t e s y o f D a v i d L . M c G o w a n ( N o r t h C a r o l i n a A & T )


FRATERNITY NEWS

Advisor’s College CurriculumOver the course of two days the attendees were trained on the following components:

Friday Morning

• Theory & Ethics in Advising (Combined)• General Techniques (Basic)• Dynamic of Change (Advanced)• Executive Committee Training (Bonus)• Operational Finances, Entities, & Taxation (Housing)• Exemplification & Informal Session Training (Basic)

Friday Afternoon

• Exemplification & Informal Session Training (Basic)• Refining Your Approach (Advanced)• Role of a Housing Corporation (Housing)• Budget & Finance (Basic)

Saturday Morning

• Preparedness & Management of a Crisis (Combined)• Overview of LCA Today (Basic)• Inner Circle Overview (Advanced)• Property & Liability Insurance (Housing)• Working with Campus Professionals (Bonus)

Saturday Afternoon

• Recruitment of Housing Corp Officers (Housing• Leading Reflection & Meaning-making (Advanced)• Housing and Capital Fundraising (Housing)• Event Planning & Liability Insurance (Basic)• Future Advising: Goal Setting (Combined)

Participant Feedback

The question asked was; “What is the one thing that stands out in your mind regarding your experience at this year’s Neville Advisor’s College?”

“Awesome experience for first-time advisors.” Aaron Fulk, Cincinnati“I was a little hesitant to attend this program but I was very impressed with the sessions and how much I learned. Congratulations on a wonderful conference. Kudos to all HQ staff. They really went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed.” Danny Kibble, Indiana

“I feel much more prepared for my role. Thank you.” James Lineberger, Central Florida (High Pi at Boise State)

“Overwhelming but in a good way.” Mark Tatkenhorst, Texas Tech

“Great networking.” Mike Smith, Denver



FRATERNITY NEWS

“This year [it] was the facilitators. I feel they went more in depth with their content. This is what everyone is looking for. The more information we can get, the better armed we will be going into the semesters.” Wayne Shelton, Louisiana State.

“I’ll give up two. How smooth everything went. Perfect location.” Mark Stitz, Drexel

“The brotherhood demonstrated by all of us with a common bond and desire to make an impact on young men’s lives. Reaffirmation that Lambda Chi is an industry leader in the fraternity industry.” John Baker, Central Florida (High Pi at Rollins)

Chapters Represented• Arizona State (Zeta-Psi)• Auburn (Omega)• Baldwin-Wallace (Kappa-Phi Colony)• Boise State (Colony 297)• Cincinnati (Gamma-Gamma)• Cornell (Omicron)• Delaware (Lambda-Beta)• Denison (Gamma-Iota)• Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa)• East Tennessee State (Iota-Omicron)• Embry Riddle (Sigma-Phi)• Idaho (Epsilon-Gamma)• Indiana (Alpha-Omicron)• Iowa State (Alpha-Tau)• Incarnate Word (Pi-Epsilon)• John Carroll (Colony 293)• Kansas State (Gamma-Xi)• Louisiana State (Upsilon)• Maine (Beta)• MIT (Lambda)

• Mercer (Zeta-Omega)• Maryland-College Park (Epsilon-Pi)• Millsaps (Theta-Eta)• Montevallo (Sigma-Epsilon)• Missouri State (Potential Colonization)• North Carolina-Greensboro (Phi-Theta)• North Carolina-Wilmington (Delta-Sigma Colony)• Oklahoma State (Gamma-Tau)• Ohio (Alpha-Omega)• Rollins (Theta-Gamma Colony)• Rose-Hulman (Theta-Kappa)• Richmond (Alpha-Chi)• South Carolina-Aiken (Pi-Alpha)• Tarleton State (Phi-Rho)• Texas Tech (Sigma-Nu Colony)• Texas-San Antonio (Phi-Upsilon)• Virginia Commonwealth (Colony 294)• Villanova (Beta-Iota)• Wabash (Alpha-Kappa)


FRATERNITY NEWS

By Matt Roy (Drury)

This is your chance to give back to our great Fraternity by joining the Professional Staff in Indianapolis. We’re Hiring! ELCs and Summer Interns

Dating back to the earliest years of our Fraternity, the support from, and the interaction with the Office of Administration and the Professional Staff have been critical components of our success.

Educational Leadership Consultants

The role of educational leadership consultant (ELC) is one of the finest examples of servant leadership and it presents boundless opportunities for recent graduates to interact with and to mentor undergraduate brothers, chapters, and colonies all over North America.

With significant job training and an enhanced focus on interpersonal dynamics and his own personal growth and development, the Lambda Chi Alpha ELC is recognized as one of the top young professionals in the field of higher education.

Travel, life-changing relationships, and the opportunity to serve the brotherhood all intersect to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for select graduating brothers.

Please follow the link below and complete the form to receive more information on how to become an Educational Leadership Consultant for Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity!

ELC applications are due February 15, 2013. Please contact Associate Director of Chapter Services Matt Roy for more information.

C a p t i o n H e r e


FRATERNITY NEWS

Testimonials from Current ELCs

We asked our current ELCs to reflect on and provide some insights about their experiences on the road.

“Being a consultant for the organization allows you to learn so much more about yourself and allows you to get a 40,000 foot view of the organization. This opportunity is a rare one filled with new and unique

challenges including planning leadership conferences, facilitating presentations and establishing new chapters across North America. At the end of my tenure as a consultant I believe that I can take on any challenge because after all you oversee operations for a multi-million dollar non-profit organization!”

Joseph Citro (Florida Southern 2011)

“Being offered an interview for the ELC position is an honor in itself. Being offered a job is a calling to serve Lambda Chi Alpha for two years of your life. Serving as an ELC is filled with rewards and benefits of

brotherhood that words cannot begin to describe.”

Michael DeCourcy (Wittenberg 2012)

“Being a consultant has been the greatest experience of my entire life so far. Traveling the continent [while] providing assistance through knowledge, education, experience, ritual, and brotherly love will be

memories that I will never forget. Giving back to this Fraternity has been the greatest gift I could ask for.”

Brandon M. Hebert (Simpson 2011)

“I’ve visited chapters in 22 states, Florida to California, been atop the Rockies and Appalachians, swum in the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean, met thousands of brothers aged 17 to 91,

and seen 62 sets of ritual equipment, all through this job.”

Chris Kirkeby (South Dakota 2011)

“The ELC positions allow you to step outside of the parameters of any normal job and learn how to work with people all around the country. As an ELC you have the opportunity to grow as a professional in a challenging

role while giving back to the fraternity we all love.”

Nick Ludwig (Coe 2011)

“In my first semester of travels as an ELC I have established new relationships and met numerous alumni who will prove to be beneficial to me in the future. The training I received over the summer has helped

me grow as an individual and a professional. I know I will be forever grateful to work for this dynamic organization.”

Erik Silvola (Florida Southern 2012)

“It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that I wouldn’t trade for any other job in the world. With this job you get the opportunity to meet brothers from all over the country, travel to incredible places, and even bring Lambda Chi

Alpha to brand new places!”

Brian Watts (Kansas State 2012)

Summer Internships

In addition to hiring ELCs the Professional Staff is also hiring undergraduate brothers to be our summer interns.

These positions are responsible for supporting/managing projects and executing tasks associated with the summer Stead Leadership Conference, organizing and filing paper and electronic records, and supporting members of the senior staff when called upon to do so.

In addition these jobs include opportunities to participate in retreats with the Chapter Services team and the subordinate zetas, as well as to work collaboratively with the educational leadership consultants on various projects and assignments. Finally, these positions entail working on multiple projects concurrently; meeting the needs of



FRATERNITY NEWS

the subordinate zetas, accomplishing tasks for the summer conference, and aiding in the administrative duties of the Chapter Services Team.

Candidate Attributes•Enrolled in sophomore, junior, or senior year of

college•Interested in pursuing a career in insurance, business

affairs, nonprofit management, or higher education

Candidate Qualifications• Takes direction and listens well• Accomplishes tasks with limited supervision and in a

detailed manner• Dependable and has a strong work ethic• Organized, able to meet deadlines, and manages

multiple projects concurrently• Strong written and verbal skills

Terms of Employment• The period of employment for this position: June 1,

2013, through August 9, 2013• Hourly wage of $10 hour/40 hours a week• Housing will be provided for this position at the

Alpha-Alpha house on the Butler University campus.

If you are interested in these positions please email your resume to Operations Coordinator Tina Waldrop-Barnett at [email protected] by April 15, 2013.


FRATERNITY NEWS

By Michel James

The Fraternity concluded the fiscal year 2012 (ended June 30, 2012) with total assets of $4.681 million.2012 Financial Recap

On June 30, 2012, Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity concluded fiscal year 2012 with total assets of $4.681 million and revenues of $5.0 million. The majority of revenue came from undergraduate fees, with the remainder coming from alumni contributions, investment income, royalties, and event registrations. During this same period the Fraternity had expenses of $4.4 million. Net Income for the year came in at just over $600K, however we have significantly reduced our liabilities from over $2.2 million to under $1.9 million in the last five years.

Over the same five years, total membership revenue has steadily increased at an annualized growth rate of over 5 percent. While the average number of chapters remains solid, around 193, the average membership size at each chapter has grown from roughly 41 in 2007 to 55 in 2012. The Fraternity spends more than 71% of its annual operating budget directly on programs and services for chapters.

Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity continues to work towards a well positioned future. Net assets have steadily increased from $2,250,781 in fiscal year 2008 to $2,826,922 in fiscal year 2012. The goal is to achieve an operating reserve of $3 million.

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HISTORY


ALUMNI RECOGNITION

For decades, Dr. Loy Witherspoon (North Carolina-Charlotte HON) has used his wealth of knowledge and unique outlook on life to shape and inspire legions of students passing through the halls of the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Over the years, he has formed a special connection to the members of Lambda Chi Alpha, many of whom regard Witherspoon as a father figure, mentor, and close friend.

“My relationships with fraternity members have provided a richness to my life I never would have achieved if I had not had them,” Witherspoon said. “My entire life has been enriched. The opportunities [Lambda Chi Alpha] has given me in life are remarkable. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities I have had to help numerous students open up their lives to a reality they might not have achieved if someone like me had not been there to help and encourage them.”

Throughout his career Witherspoon has placed special emphasis on giving back to the community. As a result, the Beta-Upsilon chapter has been noted as the only Greek organization to donate to the first UNCC Capital Campaign and to have established the Dr. Loy H. Witherspoon Scholarship in religious studies. Further, due to his influence, chapter members have made generous contributions to The Athletic Foundation and the Belk College of Business.

North Carolina-Charlotte’s faculty advisor, Dr. Loy Witherspoon, provides insight, inspiration to the Beta-Upsilon chapter brothers.

The Professor and his Sons

By Ryan Gay

D r. W i t h e r s p o o n a l o n g w i t h G r e g R o s s i m m e d i a t e p a s t p r e s i d e n t o f t h e U N C C h a r l o t t e A l u m n i A s s o c i a t i o n

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ALUMNI RECOGNITION

Role Model

A variety of alumni members have recognized Witherspoon’s uncanny ability to unlock an individual’s potential, including Scott Boulware (1989), Dr. Michael Donahue (1975), Mark Doughton (1980), John Hovis (1974) and Bob Moore (1975), even acknowledging Witherspoon as a father figure.

“[Dr. Witherspoon] has indeed been a father figure to many, including me,” Donahue said. “He can boast, and rightly so, of having raised several hundred college boys into manhood. I cannot think of any father who can attest to that for themselves.”

“Dr. Witherspoon is certainly a father figure of sorts,” Hovis added. “He has shown unconditional love for every brother who would receive it.”

Witherspoon said it was “a great honor” to be viewed as such a figure.

“I’ve never married and I never had children,” he said. “But I think of all the young men in the fraternity as if they were my sons. I’ve been very proud of their achievements. I tried to honor, respect, and guide them as best I could when there were opportunities available to give them advice. I have always hoped that I have achieved some degree of success in that.”

Witherspoon’s legacy with the school stretches back to when it was still Charlotte College. Bonnie Cone brought him to the school with the intent of establishing classes in religious studies. Venturing into unknown territory for the burgeoning university was a risk that paid off with Witherspoon’s enthusiasm and kind-hearted nature.

This approachability was a personal aspect students used when they asked him to help establish the Greek system at North Carolina-Charlotte.

“I told the students that Miss Cone felt that those organizations [could become] problematic. The students admitted they came to me to help convince Miss Cone,” Witherspoon laughed.

Witherspoon helped convince Cone to give the Greek system an opportunity on the campus. Not long after, the men of Lambda Chi Alpha approached him about being their advisor. Bob Moore noted he was surprised that Witherspoon agreed.

“Dr. Witherspoon was quite well-known; after all, he was one of Dr. Bonnie’s Boys. I was amazed he would want to associate with such a motley crew as we were then,” Moore said.

D r. W i t h e r s p o o n w i t h M i k e M i l e s . S i t t i n g : K a r l S l o u g h , D r. W i t h e r s p o o n , 2 n d r o w M a r k J o y c e , D a v i d G a y , B r a d H a r r i s , B a c k R o w J o d y J e s s u p , S c o t t B o u l w a r e , G r e g R o s s , M i k e M i l e s , R o n R i c h a r d s .


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ALUMNI RECOGNITION

A Matter of Kismet

Donahue felt Witherspoon’s taking on of the Lambda Chis was a matter of kismet.

“Whether there was any hesitancy on his part [about becoming a member of Lambda Chi and its advisor], I do not know. He agreed to associate with the fraternity, subject himself to a vote, and be initiated along with the associate member class. He joined us because he wanted to be a part of us.”

Over the years Witherspoon said he has been flattered that members of Lambda Chi Alpha have trusted his judgment in a plethora of issues. He emphasized that no matter what issue was at hand, he always gave them his ‘very best.’

Boulware wholeheartedly supported that statement.

“Doc is a friend and counselor I can always count on,” he said. “He flew to New Jersey in 1997 to marry my wife and me. In 2001 he baptized our daughter Camille and in 2003 he baptized our daughter Marin. Considering this, his continued presence in the life of my family is incredibly important.”

Many members of the fraternity have explained that Witherspoon has done his very best to impart a wide variety of life lessons.

“Stay above the fray,” Moore said in regards to the most important lesson learned from Dr. Witherspoon. “He

taught me that you have to take a long view of things and to not get hung up on the issues that you think are so important.”

Doughton said he learned the importance of living life less seriously because of Witherspoon.

“He taught me to respect everyone; to find a way to help someone who might be less fortunate; that everyone is important; that you have to learn to laugh; and you have to know when to be serious,” Doughton said.

Looking back, Witherspoon said he simply wanted his students to “have as rich of an experience as they could possibly have.”

“I want their lives to have depth and meaning, not only in their own growth experiences, but intellectually, physically, and spiritually. Life is such a wonderful, wonderful opportunity. If we don’t throw ourselves into it, and live it as fully and completely as we can, we shall have missed an enormous opportunity for achieving all that we can achieve in our own personal life.”

Witherspoon said he has felt privileged in being able to witness his students grow and develop; falling in and out of love; and venturing out to create their own lives.

“In some sense, as you experience meeting and talking with people, there are interactions and experiences you have where you just hope to have an impact on their lives. Sometimes

they don’t even realize it. But those interactions enable them to go on and achieve purposes and intentions that they might not have had if you hadn’t been there, quietly and inauspiciously providing an aura in which it becomes possible for them to achieve what is best for them in their own lives,” he explained.

Complete Admiration

In the end, Witherspoon had only one message to share with the brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha.

“I can’t tell you how enriching you all have made my life. I would not want it any other way. My experiences with you in life have been far more than I ever imagined they could be,” he said.

Though their own lives and stories are starkly different, for the men Dr. Loy Witherspoon has had the opportunity to impact there is one simple, common thread tying them all together, voiced by John Hovis.

“Dr. Witherspoon has my total and complete admiration.”

February 2013 Cross & Crescent

Documents

Transcript of February 2013 Cross & Crescent