June 2015 Cross & Crescent

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 1FEATURE - Article Title

June 2015 - Lambdachi.org - Issue #5

C ro s s & C r e s c e n t - E s t. 1 9 3 2

FUND MY ZETA FUNDS SUCCESSBy: Kyle Jones (Montevalo)

PARTNERSHIP RAISES OVER 3.6 MILLION POUNDS IN DONATIONS

TAKING THE NEXT STEPBy: Kyle Jones (Montevalo)

CHAPTER NEWSBy: Tad Lichtenauer (Denison)

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NU AND OMEGA ZETAS CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF BROTHERHOODBy: Kyle Jones (Montevalo)

Celebrating 100 years of chapter brotherhood

THE ORACLE’S MESSAGE: WHAT IS RITUAL?By: Mike Raymond (Miami-OH)

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 2FROM THE EDITOR

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FROM THE EDITORKyle JonesAssociate Director of

Communications & Digital Publishing

(317) 803-7321

[email protected]

I N T H I S I S S U E

To the relief of many, summer is finally here.

Once again, congratulations to those of our brothers who have graduated and now face the next step in their journey; in this issue you’ll find a selection of just that in our graduating seniors photo feature.

In our cover story you will find a recap of events from Georgia and Auburn’s centennial celebration this past spring, followed by an insight into the successful partnerships and initiatives taking place across our chapters and colonies.

Brother Mike Raymond pops in for a look back in history, and we also highlight brothers who are making a difference and remember those we have lost.

This month we also welcome new Associate Director of Communications and Multimedia Jimmy Long (Ball State), and our two interns for the summer Eliah McCutchen (Montevallo) and Evan Ziebell (Ball State)

Big changes are still to come for the C&C and Lambda Chi media here in the next few months, so stick with us as we continue to move forward.

As always, suggestions and submissions are always welcome.

In ZAX,

Kyle Jones

Editor, Cross & Crescent Magazine

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NU AND OMEGA CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF BROTHERHOOD

In 2009, Lambda Chi Alpha celebrated 100 years of true brotherhood, a major accomplishment when compared to our Greek peers who were already well established upon our arrival to the Greek world and its many college campuses. B y : Ky l e J o n e s ( M o n t e v a l l o )

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 3FEATURE - 100 YEARS OF CHAPTER BROTHERHOOD


Over the last 106 years, our story has been one of solid foundation and innovation, which when planted in fertile soil, blossoms true staying power.

Examples of this can be found at the University of Georgia’s Nu Zeta and Auburn University’s Omega Zeta, both of whom celebrated their own centennial this spring.

Georgia

In late April over 450 brothers of the Nu Zeta of Lambda Chi Alpha gathered in Athens, Ga. to attend a weekend filled with celebration and fraternity, some even travelling as far away as Alaska to join the momentous occasion.

Locally founded as the Trigon Club by two University of Illinois Chi Zeta alumni in May of 1915, the local organization was granted a charter by Lambda Chi Alpha and shortly thereafter initiated its first 14 men.

Over the last 100 years Nu Zeta has produced many outstanding alumni members such as Governor Joe Frank Harris, singer of Lady Antebellum Charles Kelley and football hall of famer Charlie Trippi, among others.

The chapter also boast two Order of Merit recipients including Judge John H. White and Howard “Buddy” L. Dillard.

White was responsible for keeping the chapter alive during World War II, as fraternities at the University of Georgia had closed due to the conflict.

White made sure property was kept intact until the chapter was reopened in the months following the war.

Buddy Dillard served as Hi Pi during a difficult period when the chapter was rebuilding.

Over the weekend the active chapter and alumni association of Nu Zeta hosted Meet and Greet socials as well as an open house and luncheon.

“We enjoyed the entire weekend immensely, from start to finish. The events were well-planned and provided ample opportunity for all of us to connect with brothers from our years at Nu Zeta as well as older and younger brothers,” said former High Alpha David Breedlove.

Though the highlight of Nu Zeta’s celebration was a banquet in recognition of the centennial which boasted over 850 brothers and guest.

“I believe the Saturday evening banquet appropriately commemorated the 100th anniversary of our chapter and honored in a very meaningful way the brothers who have done so much for the fraternity and the community,” added Breedlove.

Former Grand High Alpha Rev. George “Doc” Dirghalli was part of a host of speakers which also included current CEO of the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation Mark Bauer.

“The 100th of Nu Zeta brought out the perfect mosaic of brothers from all generations of the chapter,” said Bauer, “from the newest initiate, to brothers in their 90s. It oozed with fellowship and brotherhood!”

On April 25, Nu Zeta welcomed over 800 brothers and guests to take part in the chapter’s centennial celebra-tion.

S T O R Y


Bauer, representing the International Headquarters, presented the Order of Achievement to H. Edsel Benson of Nu Zeta for his accomplishments and success in the food and hospitality industries.

Lambda Chi Nu Zeta Alumni Association, Inc., the 100th anniversary celebration host and sponsor, was formed in 1997. To date the association continues to be a strong advocate in helping foster “A Lifetime of True Brotherhood” and offers support to the local chapter. Additional programs and activities provided by the association include alumni events, alumni communication and scholarship funding.

“The event also caused me to reflect on the meaning of the brotherhood of Lambda Chi Alpha at this special time, almost exactly 50 years after my initiation (May 9, 1965),” said Breedlove.

“The years have passed all too quickly, but I still think often of the great experiences with my fraternity brothers,” he added. “Many of the most enduring friendships I

have are with Lambda Chi Alpha brothers, and I know that whenever I am with a brother of any age, we have shared experiences that are meaningful.”

Auburn

Founded locally in 1908 as Delta Pi Sigma, Omega Zeta received their charter on May 15, 1915 and would go on to become one of the chapters a part of the Theta Kappa Nu merger in 1939.

Throughout the years the Auburn chapter has received various campus involvement, recruitment and academic awards, as well as one Phoenix Award, and four Grand High Alpha awards.

Among the ranks of Omega Zeta alumni, two Duke Flad Award winners and three former Grand High Zeta members can be found.

Omega Zeta’s celebration kicked off with a “roast” of Dr. Joe Kicklighter with over 200 alumni, family and friends attending.

Kicklighter was the High Pi for the Omega Chapter from the late 70s to early 90s, but has been considered

an icon on Auburn’s campus for much longer. This spring, Kicklighter retired after serving for forty years in the history department at Auburn University. This banquet served as a way for many alumni from the late 70s to early 90s to come back and honor Kicklighter and his immense contributions to Omega Zeta.

Saturday morning festivities took a turn to commemorate Michael Allphin, an alumni brother who lost his battle with cancer in 2005, with the 10th Annual Michael Allphin Memorial Golf Classic, which was started in memory of Michael by his father Barry Allphin and brother Matthew Allphin, both men are also alumni of Omega Zeta.

The tournament, which raises money to benefit Eagle Ranch, North East Georgia’s home for troubled teens, is owned and operated by Eddie Staub, an alumni of Omega Zeta. This year the golf tournament raised $10,000 to donate to Eagle Ranch.

Brothers from all generations attended the centenni-al celebrations at nu and omega zetas, as well as mem-bers of ihq staff.


For those not participating in the golf tournament, active brothers hosted alumni for Auburn’s annual spring football game and were treated to brunch, tailgating and tours of the house. “This was a great way for the active brothers to interact with alumni and their families who were not able to make it to the event Friday night,” said current High Theta Graham Davis.

Over 150 alumni were in attendance during Saturday night’s formal centennial celebration, including Lambda Chi Alpha CEO Bill Farkas, where guest speakers were invited to the stage to speak on the core values and how what they learned during their time at Omega Zeta continues to impact them throughout their lives.

“I first became aware of this chapter as an undergraduate,” said Farkas,

“and witnessed the onslaught of awards being presented to them in the summer of 1985 during the leadership seminar.”

“What I witnessed was a true sense of brotherhood,” he continued, “Often as you travel for the fraternity the reception from chapters is cool – distant at best, but the brothers from Auburn made me feel welcomed and allowed me to see a greater part of the life of Omega Zeta and to those men I am grateful.”

The event was wrapped up by keynote speaker Michael O’Neil. O’Neil is a well known actor, having played roles in Grey’s Anatomy and many other television programs and movies.

“O’Neil is an alumni of Omega Zeta, but has rarely been able to return, so it was great to have him back,” added Davis.

O’Neil is also known throughout Lambda Chi Alpha as the author of “The Essence of Lambda Chi.”

The culmination of Omega Zeta’s centennial celebration came Sunday morning as guest convened for brunch once again as the weekend wound down with the unveiling of Omega Zeta’s Centennial Monument. The monument was sponsored by brother Chester McKinney as a way to commemorate Omega Zeta’s accomplishment of 100 years as a chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha.

The monument was intricately designed by alumni brother and renowned architect Joey Leavitt. The back of the monument is inscribed with each initiated brother of Omega Zeta’s name over the past 100 years. sponsered by brother chester mckinney, omega zeta

unveiled their monument to 100 years as a chapter.

WHAT I WITNESSED WAS A TRUE SENSE OF BROTHERHOOD

-Bill Farkas

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 7FEATURE - FEEDING AMERICA PARTNERSHIP

PARTNERSHIP RAISES OVER 3.6 MILLION POUNDSLambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, in partnership with Feeding America, has raised over 3.6 million pounds of food during the 2014-2015 academic year through a nationwide food drive conducted by the fraternity’s 190 chapters and colonies.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 8FEATURE - FEEDING AMERICA PARTNERSHIP

In total, Lambda Chi Alpha has provided over 3 million meals to Feeding America-affiliated food banks who service more than 46 million people facing hunger insecurity.

Lambda Chi Alpha chapters from the University of New Orleans, Worcester Polytechnic and North Carolina-Wilmington led Lambda Chi Alpha’s fight against hunger by raising 228,500, 192,622 and 134,828 pounds of food respectively.

To date the partnership has raised over 6 million pounds and has provided those in need with over 5 million meals. All monetary and food donations raised benefit local food banks across the country which helps to feed the 1 in 6 Americans facing hunger, this includes nearly 17 million children living in food-insecure households.

“The Feeding America network is grateful to the men of Lambda Chi Alpha,” said Kelli Walker, director of corporate partnerships for Feeding America. “Not only for their incredible achievement in collecting pounds of food in their local communities but for the service and work many of the chapters provide in neighborhoods across the country. With one in six Americans facing food insecurity across the United States, the men of Lambda Chi Alpha are taking action.”

Lambda Chi Alpha aims to continue their success in fighting hunger with new initiatives and additional programming at the national and collegiate level this fall. Undergraduate members have collectively volunteered over 22,000 hours at their home institutions and in their

communities.“I am humbled to say that

we and our undergraduates are continuing to lead the effort to end hunger across college campuses and local communities,yet there is still more work to do” said CEO of Lambda Chi Alpha Bill Farkas.

“We look forward to not only raising more pounds of food but also providing

our men with more opportunities to volunteer at their local food bank,” added Farkas. “I could not be prouder of our undergraduates and alumni and I know Feeding America is also excited to hear about our continued success.”

Since 1993, Lambda Chi Alpha has maintained an ongoing commitment to hunger relief with the former “North American Food Drive,” which encouraged chapters to donate non-perishable food. These efforts have raised more than 40 million pounds of food for the needy. That spirit and commitment now continues through the ongoing partnership with Feeding America.

In addition to expanding the number of participating chapters and total amount of food collected, Lambda Chi Alpha believes the partnership with Feeding America has strengthened the local relationships between chapters and member food banks and

increased collaborative opportunities.

THE FEEDING AMERICA NETWORK IS GRATEFUL TO THE

MEN OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA

Members of the Pi Zeta chapter at Worcester Polytechnic raised more than 192,000 pounds of food.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 9FEATURE - FUND MY ZETA

FUND MY ZETA FUNDS SUCCESSThe Fund My Zeta initiative, which began this spring, has been able to provide an opportunity for chapters and colonies to receive up to $1,000 in funding for certain chapter operations, and Lambda Chi broth-ers have already been putting these funds to use.B y : Ky l e J o n e s ( M o n t e v a l l o )

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 10FEATURE - FUND MY ZETA

Areas of funding including ritual equipment, philanthropic initiatives, educational assistance and leadership development experience.

A total of 19 chapters and colonies across the country have been taking advantage of this new program, with six undergraduate initiatives already funded, the remaining 13 will receive funding this August.

“Fund My Zeta has been a wonderful opportunity to assist our chapters in becoming stronger and more effective,” said Joe Citro, project coordinator for Fund My Zeta. “The program has allowed our members to think outside the box, our hope is that more chapters apply for this funding in the future.”

Due to the funding provided by Fund My Zeta, five members of the Embry-Riddle Prescott Colony were able to attend the Pacific Southwest Conclave this spring.

“Conclave was an experience we will not soon forget,” said High Alpha of Embry-Riddle Reece Ticotin. “I, along with four of my brothers attended and have never been as

motivated about Lambda Chi as we are now.”

The brothers of Delta-Sigma Zeta at UNC-Wilmington were surprised to receive an extra $400 to their initial $600 request in support of their annual Teeter-Totter-Athon which benefits Feeding America.

High Theta for the chapter Turner Perkerson, used the funds to create a more professional event by purchasing quality resources that will be able to be used annually, with a majority of funding to spare.

Delta-Sigma Zeta, in partnership with Tony Robbins, was able to raise $11,440 or 114,400 pounds of food in donations for Feeding America.

“On April 3, Theta-Chi Zeta initiated five new members,” said brother Cody Johnson of Eureka College. “With the funding we received from Fund My Zeta we were able to buy and use a new lamp for initiation.”

Theta-Chi will also put their funding to use to host a High Zeta retreat at the new International Headquarters building in Carmel, Ind. at a later date.

“The lamp we had was

pretty roughed up,” said Johnson. “It had pieces broken off and it also would hardly hold a flame. With the new lamp we didn’t have to worry about the flame going out while performing our ritual. Not only was it more practical, but the new lamp brought change and energy to our chapter. Our chapter has not seen any new ritual equipment for some time, so it was nice to see some positive changes in equipment.”

From large scale philanthropy to minor but necessary replacements, Fund My Zeta has created an opportunity to drive chapters and colonies to the next level of their personal and

professional development. Kyle Sims and his

chapter at Michigan State University were able to do just that, by creating an in chapter education program called “Gamma Omicron Leadership Development Program” or “GOLD.”

The program, which seeks to groom members into men that can fill formal and informal leadership positions, and do so in a way that prescribes to an ideology of social responsibility and values based leadership, was made possible through the Fund My Zeta grant by providing the chapter with necessary funding for program materials.

“Other chapters should

apply for funding through Fund My Zeta because

it really allows for ideas to become a reality,” said Sims. “These grants allow for

programs that may have struggled to survive within some chapters, now

flourish and reach their full potential. There is nothing to lose with

asking for these funding requests. The Fund My Zeta program is an

obvious investment in the development and growth of our fraternity and its members.”

Moving forward the Fund My Zeta initiative will offer up to $30,000 a year in available funding for chapters and colonies of Lambda Chi Alpha.

“I am excited to watch this initiative continue to grow and look forward to seeing a majority of chapters apply for funding,” said CEO Bill Farkas. “The staff is eager and excited to work together with our chapters to help them reach new levels of success.”

For more information and to apply for funding, please visit www.lambdachi.org/resources/fund-my-zeta.

Delta-Sigma Zeta used funds provided by Fund my Zeta to improve their annual Teeter-Totter-Athon, a philan-thropy event hosted by many chapters such as Iota-Chi Zeta at Iowa.


TAKING THE NEXT STEP 2015 Lambda Chi Alpha Graduates

Loyalty is our first core value. As a graduating senior, you will soon plunge into a new phase of your life – one of a young professional. Lambda Chi Alpha wants to continue to be a play a role in your development. By being a loyal alumnus of Lambda Chi Alpha and staying engaged, you can continue to be connected with your brothers, learn, and grow through the Joseph T. Charles Mentor Academy and receive fraternity updates through the Cross & Crescent magazine. Brotherhood lasts for-ever so stay connected with Lambda Chi Alpha.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 12FEATURE - Article Title June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 12PHOTO FEATURE - TAKING THE NEXT STEP

Northeastern State University (Delta-Beta)Matt Ozturk, BA in business.

Northeastern State University (Delta-Beta)Casey Dillard, doctorate of optometry.

NYU Polytechnic (Theta-Upsilon)Steven Frommer, Brian Murphy, Eric Zucaro, Isaac Mbira

Arkansas State (Iota-Theta)Earl Morris

Pittsburg State University (Lambda-Chi)(L to R) Chancey Parker, Dylan Fink, Devin Hance, Brendan Sheehy, Connor Foster, Dillion Richmond, Mitch Ralston, and Brad Hall.

Arkansas State (Iota-Theta)


Florida International University (Pi Phi Zeta)Kevin Maestre, biomedical engineering.

California State University, Northridge (Beta Rho Zeta)

NYU Polytechnic (Theta-Upsilon)

Northeastern State University (Delta-Beta)Dakota Beller, master’s degree in mathematics.


Northeastern State University (Delta-Beta)(L to R) Russell Kennedy, Jerry Cook - alumni mentor, Austin Garrett and Casey Mathis.

Ball State (Iota-Alpha)

Cornell University (Omicron)

California State University, Northridge (Beta-Rho)

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 15FEATURE - SUICIDE PREVENTION WALK

B y : B e n H a r r i sThis article originally published at (theodysseyonline.

com/maryland/university-maryland-out-darkness-suicide-prevention-walk-largest-country/102016)

On the McKeldin Mall Sunday afternoon, Lambda Chi Alpha and Alpha Chi Omega sponsored the year’s largest and most profitable Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk in the country, thanks in part to an enormous response from campus Greek life.

For Lambda Chi sophomore CJ Pendleton, this was personal. The uncertainty and stress surrounding high

EPSILON-PI HOSTS RECORD BREAKING PREVENTION WALK

UMD’s Out o f the Darknes s Su i c ide Prevent ion Walk Larges t in Count ry. More than 500 walkers, the most of any walk in the country, raised over $21,000 for research and educational programs for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention this Sunday.

S T O R Y

school can drown out the positives in life and prompt questions regarding self-worth and decency. The road can be dark and lonely, and suicidal thoughts exist only within the realm of one’s own mind, drastically altering perception of the outside world. There is no recovery time; no cast to put on to help heal. The necessary rehabilitation is a loving support group and the proper resources. Experiencing these difficult thoughts in high school, Pendleton kept them to himself, not seeking counseling or sharing with his parents.

As a sophomore now settling into Greek life, he finally saw his opportunity. “I didn’t want anyone else to go through what I did,” said Pendleton. He approached fellow brother Jacob Katinsky, and they contacted the AFSP to bring a suicide prevention walk to the University of Maryland. “It was a personal issue for CJ and a few other

brothers, and at that point, it becomes a personal issue to the whole chapter,” said Katinsky, the walk’s lead organizer.

The AFSP holds three types of walks: community walks in more than 350 communities across the country, overnight 16 to 18-mile walks in rotating cities annually, and three to five-mile walks at colleges and high schools across the country. On Saturday and Sunday, across the country, 15 colleges held Out of the Darkness walks, all contributing to the AFSP goal to cut suicide by 20 percent in 2025.

High school stressors increase enormously in college.

“SUICIDE IS THE SECOND LEADING

CAUSE OF DEATH FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS”

16 TO 18-MILE

WALKS IN ROTATING

CITIES ANNUALLY

Brothers of Epsilon-Pi Zeta hold a sign outside their chapter house in support of suicide preven-tion.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 16FEATURE - SUICIDE PREVENTION WALK

Worries about what school to attend shift to what jobs to apply for. Social life is bigger, freedom is greater and your responsibilities multiply tenfold. The transition can be tough for students, as a standardized, personal high school environment vanishes, and you become one of nearly 40,000 students. Pendleton believes a sense of individuality can easily be lost.

Claiming over 40,000 lives a year, suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students, and third for those aged 15 to 24. The number one cause of death in both groups is diagnosed or undiagnosed adolescent depression.

The key lies in bringing the issue into the light and out from under the shadow of its stigma. It is not easy for someone to bring up such personal issues, and for many it is as tough to try and help out.

An accepting environment is key, but it is not always a reality. “My goal from this is for people to be more understanding,” he said, “This isn’t something to be scared of, or something to shake your head at. We want to change the mentality regarding suicidal tendencies and better limit the communication bridge and lessen the stigma.”

To truly bring the issue out of the darkness, Pendleton knows those who have suffered from depression and suicidal tendencies must come forward

and share their experiences. These people, like Pendleton, are the survivors. They are the only ones able to share the experience and wisdom of someone who has questioned taking their own life, and raised themselves above it. Their voices are more important than ever. “We’re trying to be

open about it,” he said, “And be willing to talk and come out and be the face of what suicidal tendencies can be.”

Suicidal tendencies are severely stigmatized and unfairly broadcast onto social outcasts or those who seem different. There is no mold, no outfit and no checklist determining who does and does not suffer from these thoughts. For most, like Pendleton, the suffering was internal. The more welcoming an environment, the more likely someone is to open up about similar circumstances. Pendleton has received an overwhelming number of messages from strangers thanking him for bringing suicide prevention to the light, while sharing their own personal stories.

“My being so open about it gave people a connection to relate to, it wasn’t something invisible,” he said, “it’s flesh and blood... and it can be anyone and everyone in your everyday life.”

While raising awareness for the walk, Pendleton received an outpouring of support and personal stories from those thankful for his efforts. The walk, 500 participants strong, served as a personal measuring stick for Pendleton and his efforts to raise awareness.

“It was a big driving force behind why I wanted to come out in the open with it,” he said. “Not only for me to recognize where I’ve been and where I’m going, but to give someone that connection that can seem missing when

you’re going through something as serious as suicidal tendencies.”

WE WANT TO CHANGE THE MENTALIT Y REGARDING

SUICIDAL TENDENCIES AND BETTER LIMIT THE

COMMUNICATION BRIDGE AND LESSEN THE STIGMA.

-CJ Pendleton

Brothers of Epsilon-Pi Zeta pose with members of Alpha Chi Ome-ga from UMD-College Park, the two organizations cohosted the re-cord breaking event.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 17

Garcia sustained injuries Tuesday afternoon after being involved in an auto accident while travelling between Lexington and Richmond, Kent. with chapter brother Luke Backstrom and two others.

While Backstrom survived with a concussion and minor bruises, Brother Garcia was admitted to UK Medical Center ICU with multiple injuries and massive swelling of the brain. Fellow passenger and EKU student Alyssa Moorman passed away at the scene. The driver, Abby Melton, was released from the hospital.

“My guys have lived in the waiting rooms over the last few days,” said High Pi of Phi-Beta Scott Jackson. “They have occupied the waiting room for so long that many of the hospital staff have learned their names.”

The Brothers of Phi-Beta Zeta spent days in the UK Medical Center waiting room in support of their brother Cody Garcia.

After being put into a medically induced coma, Brother Garcia passed away on Thursday, May 14, he was set to graduate from EKU with a degree in criminal justice the next day.

Garcia was said to have been a model brother of Lambda Chi Alpha who lived by our core values each day, he will be dearly missed by his friends, family and brothers.

A GoFundMe page has been created to alleviate any financial stress that may face Garcia’s family in the coming future. To donate please visit www.gofundme.com/uje68zqg.

“Blessed are those who mourn: for they will be comforted.”

BROTHER CODY GARCIAOur thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends of Cody Garcia, as well as our brothers at Eastern Kentucky University.

S T O R Y

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN: FOR THEY WILL

BE COMFORTED.

Brother Cody Garcia passed away on Thursday, May 14. He was 23.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 18FEATURE - THE ORACLE’S MESSAGE: WHAT IS RITUAL?

Names like Cole and Mason are familiar to all Lambda Chis. The fraternity that they created, nurtured and molded into a first class organization bears testimony to their abilities. Their stories have been told and will be retold as long as Lambda Chi Alpha exists.

What about Theta Kappa Nu? It too had great men who inspired the creation of our brother fraternity. One such Theta Nu was Jerry Homer “Dad” Krenmyre. Krenmyre was a founder, officer and creator of the Ritual of Theta Kappa Nu fraternity. He is credited as the principal writer of the Theta Kappa Nu Ritual. A ritual, in modified form, that is still presented as our Associate Member Ceremony.

“Dad” was known as an accomplished orator. So much so that he travelled throughout the country speaking to Masonic Lodges, churches and Theta Kappa Nu chapters. He was a sought after speaker on many topics. He also wrote for the Theta News. In particular, almost every issue of the magazine

THE ORACLE’S MESSAGE: WHAT IS RITUAL?Our Fraternity was blessed with many men of outstanding ability and creativity who worked in our organization’s earliest years. By: Mike Raymond (Miami-OH)

S T O R Y

featured his column, “The Oracle’s Message.” He wrote about many topics over the lifespan of the Theta News but, one column stands out above the rest.

In the July 1933 issue of the Theta News, “Dad” Krenmyre wrote a lengthy discourse on the subject of ritual. This article incorporates the thoughts of another prominent fraternity man, Francis W. Shepardson of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. This thought-provoking article still has meaning and relevance to fraternity men today. What follows are two major excerpts from this article that clearly express the importance of ritual to Krenmyre.

WHAT IS RITUAL?

“Ritual is a living breathing philosophy that kindles a new spirit and a new life within the heart of every neophyte. Ritualism is not simply a drama, neither is it a series of lectures. Ritualism is a philosophy expressed in drama and symbolism and supplemented by lectures.

In the ritualism of the Greek letter fraternity we are building or picturing a philosophy brotherhood. In the presentation there should be so much of the men exemplifying the ritual that a bit of their fraternal spirit goes out to the initiate. When a neophyte has seen the ritual exemplified and has taken the obligations, he should feel that he has received something that will be a part of his life.

The setting itself must be a figurative expression of a reality. In Greek letter fraternities the setting is usually a Greek setting and for this reason much of the symbolism is of the Greek.

In ritualism that has to do with building life there is a complete philosophy of life or the weaving together of the principles that go into making a perfect life. Philosophy is the setting forth of principles, rules or steps by which perfection is gained. Just to the extent that the fraternity succeeds in building that philosophy into the lives of its members, it succeeds or fails.

Ritualism is the vehicle by which philosophy rides into the

WHAT IS RITUAL?


lives of fraternity men.In a complete ritual there must be the element of sacrifice

and for that reason there must be a symbolic willingness to make as great a sacrifice as necessary for the completion of life’s project. Thus there is a willingness to give one’s own life if necessary for the cause for which the individual is working. And if the ritual is presented as a living philosophy by men who themselves have become true exponents of the principles

they teach, there will be a real and genuine willingness to give one’s self for principle.

When ritualism becomes a living breathing thing; when ritualism kindles new inspiration; when ritualism succeeds in making over life, then and not until then will the Greek letter fraternity ride through such storms as it is now passing without danger of sinking for it is then that men will sacrifice for the principles they teach; then the Greek letter fraternity will be so much a part of the life of its votaries that they will sacrifice for their fraternity. There will be no division between their fraternity and themselves.

BACK TO OUR ALTERS brothers and an earnest exemplification of ritualism.”

The next section of “The Oracle’s Message” was written by Francis W. Shepardson, a Beta with a reputation in the fraternity world second only to our Jack Mason. It was common practice for fraternity magazines in the 1930s

through the 1960s to present news about other fraternities and sororities. It was not unusual for these magazines, including the Cross & Crescent and the Purple, Green and Gold, to publish excerpts and even complete articles from other fraternity publications. So, while it may seem strange to us today to include material from other fraternity leaders it was customary practice back then. Here is what Shepardson had to say about Ritual.

THE RITUAL “What is a ritual in a college fraternity? It is the text

of an initiatory ceremonial in which an individual whose membership is expected to be life-long, participates as a candidate but once. It is important and significant. Important, because it marks the student’s first introduction to an organization to whose membership he has looked forward with eagerness, and, no doubt, with some degree of natural curiosity. Important, because the manner in which the ritual is interpreted for him and to him may determine his own attitude toward his chapter and his fraternity in days and years ahead. It is significant, because the ritual is supposed to explain to the novitiate the ideals of the society into whose membership he is being received. If properly exemplified, the ceremonial is likely to be remembered for years, and it is equally likely to make upon the alert and plastic mind of youth definite and distinct impressions which may stimulate his thought and direct his

WHEN RITUALISM BECOMES A LIVING BREATHING THING....THEN AND NOT UNTIL THEN WILL THE GREEK LETTER FRATERNIT Y

RIDE THROUGH SUCH STORMS.


actions.It hardly needs to be suggested that the atmosphere of

such an importance and significant ceremonial should be fitting to the occasion upon whose inspirations the future of a chapter may depend. While not a religious rite in the commonly accepted meaning of that phrase, the initiation ceremonial is highly religious if the root-meaning of “religion” as a “binding fast” is recalled; or, if the import of the correct interpretation of the ideals of a fraternity is kept in mind. The spirit of all present, whether candidates or observers, should be a right spirit; minds should be open to receive impressions; the thought of all should center round the solemn service. (It should not be overlooked that many a long-initiated member is born again during a well-rendered ceremonial.) Smoking in the hall, or whispering, or any form of disturbance should not be tolerated for a minute, in case some thoughtless member should forget himself and his whereabouts. The more dignified the speakers, the more respectful the hearers, the more

effective the ritual always.The garb of the participants undoubtedly affects a

ceremonial. The candidates, if clothed in white according to the classical meaning of candidatus, are readily distinguished as they are led through the hall; their height seems increased; they are properly differentiated from all others in the room. If officers have robes with distinctive colors and insignia, there is an added tone of dignity and a psychological effect upon the individual who is to have a part. If all other members and visitors are clad in black robes, as usually is the case, they too, add their part thus to the ceremonial atmosphere and to the effect produced upon the candidate after he is brought to light.

A well-written ritual is dramatic in character. Carefully phrased speeches, long or short, make up its subject matter. Often these speeches have significant or suggestive words or expressions to be emphasized. Correct dramatic interpretation is required to bring out these sometimes partly hidden meanings. Where the whole ritual is studied and exemplified as a single dramatic performance, the impression both upon novitiates and upon attending members is certain to be marked. Too often the unity of the ritual is overlooked and its histrionic possibilities ignored. To read a part, which was designed to be spoken with earnestness and with clear enunciation, is a serious bit of blundering; the one who reads usually acknowledges thus that he has not taken the time to commit his lines to memory, and, quite likely, too, reads hesitatingly and without understanding. To stammer and stutter, and to bungle a passage, every word in which has been chosen with care, is little short of tragedy. The sort of thing which would bring sharp and sarcastic criticism if perpetrated by a candidate for place in the Masquers (this was a theatrical fraternity founded in 1925 by some of Hollywood’s most famous actors) and would bar him from the sock and buskin (symbolic of Greek theatre), is not at all infrequent in fraternity initiations when one butchers his part. On the other hand, the testimony seems to be universal that, where a ritual is exemplified in a manner approaching perfection of interpretation, both candidate and initiated attendant are deeply impressed.

Even the lines which seem less important may, if rightly

Francis W. Shepardson, President of Beta Theta Pi. It was common practice for fraternity magazines in the 1930s through the 1960s to present news about other fraternities and sororities, such was the case in Theta News.

A WELL-WRITTEN

RITUAL IS DRAMATIC IN CHARACTER.


spoken, linger long in the memory. It is difficult, therefore, to select certain actors in the drama as of more importance than others. But the success of an initiatory ceremonial depends, in large measure, upon the conductor, or guide, who has charge of the candidates. If he knows his part; if he speaks his lines clearly and correctly at every station, he stimulates every possibly halting participant to do his best in interpretation. If, on the other hand, the conductor has not familiarized himself with the directions and, along with that, has not memorized his part, the entire ceremonial is likely to drag and to be a miserable failure. In his alertness, his clear-cut renditions of his speeches, his general bearing, the conductor or guide has a great opportunity as an actor. He is the key man.

The president’s part, too, should be studied with exceptional care. In a true sense the familiar expression is pertinent to him: Noblesse oblige. The president is the chapter’s chosen head; he is the accepted leader; upon his shoulders rests the success or failure of a chapter’s year. He voices the welcome of the chapter to the candidates; he may interpret to them the idealism of the fraternity through a most thoughtful and carefully considered speech of the authorized ritual; he gives them the charge. If, through laziness or lack of attention or failure to appreciate the significance of his part in the ceremonial, he does a botch job, the chances are many that his selection as chapter leader was a sad mistake, one which, under ordinary conditions, has to be tolerated during the entire college year. If, with proper interpretation and with the seriousness which should attend such an occasion, he makes his ritualistic appeals with fervor and force, he may stamp himself as a leader upon those who are before him as candidates, eager to hear his words, and at the same time may strengthen his hold upon the hearts and affections of those who look to him for guidance.

Music adds much to a ritual. Every fraternity has songs which are appropriate to a ceremonial, if not indeed primarily written for such a purpose. A quartette which has practiced its part may lend great power and dignity to an initiation, and may be used most effectively where conditions permit, if hidden from the eyes of the listeners or placed at some distance

from the candidates. On the other hand, a murderous assault upon harmony by the untrained voices of an unguided group may ruin the entire rite. In the singing as in the speaking, distinct enunciation is essential.

The assumption thus far made that all rituals are alike is not an undue one. All are cast in a common mold. It must be so, because there are certain essentials to any initiatory ceremonial, no matter what the name or the object of the secret society. Preliminary questions before admittance; a pledge to respect the objects and ideals of the organization; a challenge at the door; a formal admission; the interpretation of ideals and the explanation of name, symbolism, badge; the solemn vows of the novitiate; the signing of the membership roll – these are neither secrets nor exclusive rites. They are common to all. There is no harm in the thought that a given ritual is finer in spirit and better written than any other; that the ideals of one fraternity are loftier and better exemplified than those of any similar society – such thoughts are desirable and strengthen the ties of membership, even if the individual’s range of knowledge of such esoteric matters be limited. The main thing in the ceremonial, after all, is interpretation. A well-rendered ritual will make a good impression, even if the language may be faulty. A college fraternity ritual, resultant of much study, of much care in the selection of words and phrases, perhaps of the combined thought and care of years, has great possibilities of influence, even if bungled in rendition. Properly interpreted it may be – it has been – a powerful factor in human life.”

If you can get used to the flowery and sometimes overwrought writing style of the 1930s, there is much that this essay offers to today’s reader. Certainly, it captures the essence of ritualism and its component parts. Shepardson’s listing of the essential characteristics of ritual is illuminating. This essay can be used as a lens through which any ritual can be examined. It also identifies the common threads that run through the ritualism of fraternities and sororities. The ritualistic thoughts of Krenmyre and Shepardson are still useful and powerful observations 82 years after their publication in the Theta News.

FINER IN SPIRIT

AND BETTER

WRITTEN THAN ANY

OTHER.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 22FEATURE - LESSONS IN GIVING BACK

George Taylor (High Point), Associate Director of Alumni Involvement

May is a month of transition and change in the world around us with the seasons changing, temperatures rising, and plants blooming. It is also a big month for us as a fraternity as we are electing new officers, holding

initiations, and supporting our seniors as they start a new chapter in their lives.

On more than one occasion we repeat the words “…I will always…” and “…I will never…” while there are many more times that those words are implied through our oaths and obligations. Woven in those oaths, we are given ways to be a good alumnus whether it is the reminders of our symbols, ideals and values, continuing to seek men of good character who would be desirable members of our bond, or by lending assistance and support to our home zeta or the one closest to us. Giving back is a value that sets us apart from our peer organization and we have found it to be important

EDITORIAL:LESSONS IN GIVING BACKAlumni, current and former staff share their experiences as volunteers of Lambda Chi Alpha.

S T O R Y

enough to include in our Seven Core Values.

As alumni, we have the opportunity to give back something more lasting than treasure, and that is time. As an organization, Lambda Chi Alpha is fortunate to have alumni who give both. Treasure is a tangible thing that we can see coming in and going out, we can count it, we can measure the return, but the time that an alumnus spends with an undergraduate and the impact it has is countless. At the local level, we are familiar with our High Pi — 90 percent of our chapters have one, fewer of our chapters have more than just one involved alumnus.

Tony Unfried (Wabash): Be a Loyal Alumnus

The men at Wabash College had a house corporation and that was the extent of their alumni involvement. They realized they needed more. Here are some words from one of those alumni, Tony Unfried (Wabash 2003), about the importance of an Alumni Advisory Board.

There are many volunteer opportunities for alumni of Lambda Chi Alpha, each has a different purpose. The alumni advisory board of Lambda Chi Alpha serves the purpose to advise not only the young men of the chapter, but specifically to advise the High Zeta. The advisory board is often the forgotten opportunity for a chapter to

GIVING BACK IS A

VALUE THAT

SETS US APART


take advantage of, and can also be the most rewarding for alumni to be involved in the true development of the undergraduate men.

Lambda Chi Alpha has many resources available to start an advisory board at your chapter and it doesn’t take much. At Alpha-Kappa Zeta (Wabash College), we were very lucky. We had access to the email listserv from the college and already have a close-knit alumni base. So reaching out was the easy part, the unknown was going to be the response we would get and the actual interest outside of the few us that put together the plan. So three years ago, during the initial callout of volunteers, we had an overwhelming response and actually had to put some alumni on reserve. We found that there were many alumni as excited to help as we were. Most of them told us they had wanted to get involved, just didn’t know how. Alumni support is vital to the growth of every chapter and often the undergrads might not realize the support they have at their disposal. Conversely, many alumni may also not know how they can get involved. Once it’s all realized, those active brothers and associates are very lucky. We hope they realize the brotherly love and support that is available to them. On the other hand, the struggle can simply be getting the High Zeta to buy into the idea of having that support. Picking the right alumni can be an attractive incentive for those undergrads.

The alumni advisory board is completely separate from any other volunteer group such as the housing corporation. The Alpha Kappa advisory board started as an extension of the housing corporation but

quickly grew into its own entity. The housing corporation oversees the housing structures itself and ensures a safe living environment for the men of the chapter. The advisory board is responsible with the role of providing support to the chapter leadership. The High Pi is the chairman of the advisory board, but certainly cannot support the whole High Zeta on his own. It was quickly learned the importance of having a completely separate entity from the housing corporation because different types of discussions need to be had, and in a less structured setting.

We have found the best approach for the advisory board is to be the support system for the Pi and each High Zeta member has his own advisor to look to for advice. We continually offer support in a coaching or teaching manner, not with a hammer. It was important to find strengths of alumni and match them with the positions of the High Zeta. For example, it makes sense for an attorney to advise the Iota and someone in finance to advise the Tau. But the background of the alumnus is not nearly as important as his will to be a part of something great. When 15-20 alumni are willing to come to campus many times a semester or answer phone calls or emails with questions or concerns, that shows a lifetime of true brotherhood, across many generations. The advisory board is important for those High Zeta members because they will have an outlet to a brother that cares, and more importantly a brother that has been there. Whether the

WE HOPE THEY REALIZE THE BROTHERLY LOVE AND SUPPORT THAT IS AVAILABLE TO THEM.


questions are on recruitment techniques or ideas or filling out risk management paperwork, the advisors have the training and wisdom to guide the zeta member in the way that was meant by Lambda Chi Alpha. It isn’t always easy to get the actives or associates to ask for help, but an advisor’s words mean much more when their advices is solicited.

Over the years, the relationship between the undergrads and the advisory board develop into more than just advice or oversight. The advisors also become great references and networking opportunities for the active brothers as they too become alumni themselves. We have watched these men progress from young followers to strong leaders in the fraternity and the community. They learn a lot from us, but also about us. They see our alumni doing great things at the college, in the fraternity, and with the community. They finally see where they can be and sometimes choose to follow our path. They look to us for life lesson advice and career networking. It is always very rewarding for the alumni advisory board members to watch young men turn into young alumni and perhaps someday be advisors as well. That is a lifetime of true brotherhood.

David Walthius (Indiana): Service is not limited to a certain region

From a different perspective is David Walthius (Indiana 2010) who recalls his interactions as an Educational Leadership Consultant and the impact that he saw of

the alumni and undergraduate interactions and how it helped him as he left staff and started graduate school.

Graduating from Indiana University was an incredibly happy but sad time. My undergraduate experience as a member of Lambda Chi Alpha was coming to an end. I saw all of my brothers’ Facebook posts about events, and saw all of the fun pictures they posted. I wanted to go back and be in those photos and attend those events. But I knew deep down inside it was no longer my place. It was time for brothers younger than I to take the reins and lead the chapter to bigger and better things.

I was incredibly fortunate to serve as an Educational Leadership Consultant from 2011-2013. I was able to travel across North America and meet with thousands of brothers. The experience filled the void in my heart of Lambda Chi Alpha, of brotherhood. Now I am attending Indiana State University for graduate school and serve as the graduate advisor for the Interfraternity Council. Working with an entire fraternity and sorority has filled the void.

Traveling the country and now working at an institution has made me truly realize how important it is to have dedicated and passionate advisors. The strongest chapters and colonies have advisors who challenge the men and support them through those challenges; not completing their tasks for them.

I highly encourage brothers who have recently graduated to seek out opportunities to advise a chapter. Even if there isn’t a Lambda Chi Alpha chapter in your city or area, advise a chapter from a different fraternity. From a campus perspective, you’d be welcomed as a voice that can assist young men develop and

grow. Reach out to the university/college fraternity and sorority life office near you. Let them know you care about fraternity and soon you’ll find a group of men who will welcome you, and maybe you can fill the void of brotherhood that might be missing from your post-graduate life.

A Final Call to ActionTake time to reflect

on the impact that alumni have had on your life, whether as an undergraduate or alumnus, and what you wished alumni had done for you; and be that alumnus. Give back an hour a week or an hour a month. You may never know how significant of an effect that hour is but your impact will be universal.

For more information on how to get involved, please visit www.lambda-chi-alpha.org/graduating-seniors for more information.

June 2015 - lambdachi.org - Issue #5 25CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter NewsThe following are the submissions received for the month ofJune 2015. To submit chapter news, please email [email protected]. Undergraduate officers can also report up-dates on their chapter by logging on to Officer Portal andaccessing the “Submit Chapter News” form.B y : Ta d L i c h t e n a u e r ( D e n i s o n )

U P D A T E S

Appalachian State (Sigma-Upsilon)

A l u m n i N e w s

Forty years after earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Appalachian State University, J. Bradley Wilson of Raleigh has received a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa from his alma mater.

Brad Wilson, right, received an honorary doctorate degree from Appalachian State University. The award, conferred by Chancellor Sheri N. Everts, left, was presented Saturday, May 9 during the graduation ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences. Wilson, who earned his undergraduate degree from Appalachian in 1975, is president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. (Photo by Marie Freeman)

The honorary degree, which recognizes an individual’s significant contributions to the state and nation, was presented to Wilson during the graduation ceremony for Appalachian’s College of Arts and Sciences held May 9 in the Holmes Convocation Center on campus.

Wilson, who earned his undergraduate degree from Appalachian in 1975, is president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. He was nominated for the honor by one of his former professors.

Union (Lambda-Zeta)“Fear the Thumb”Lambda Chi takes the Union Variety show for the fifth year in a row.

P h o t o o f t h e M o n t h


to Gov. James B. Hunt Jr., a post he held until being named acting secretary of the N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety in 1995. He joined Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina in 1995. JOSH WOMACK EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM SPECIALIST California State - Fresno Colony (Iota-Gamma Colony)

C h a p t e r N e w s

This month was a huge month full of joy. We worked very hard and diligently on our chartering package and have got notified that we have officially chartered! That was not the only highlight of our month. We have been officially notified that we will start remodeling and construction on june 1st! We are so stoked on receiving our house back from our alumni the upcoming semester is really going to be a fun and challenging experience all of us.

“In recent years, Mr. Wilson has endeavored to serve higher education in North Carolina state-wide and Appalachian State University in particular,” wrote retired political science professor Dan German. Wilson served 16 years on the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, including four years as chairman of the board.

His service to Appalachian includes membership on many athletics and academic boards and councils, including the Yosef Club, Alumni Council and the College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Council. He more recently co-chaired, with his wife, Carole, the Campaign for Appalachian that raised more than $200 million for the university.

A major gift from the couple established the Wilson Scholars Program, a prestigious full-ride scholarship based on a student’s academics, leadership and service. The university’s honors and student leadership and residential hall complex on campus was named the Brad and Carole Wilson Honors and Engagement Community in the couple’s honor in March 2013.

Wilson Scholars participate in specially designed seminars, engage in international experiences and design capstone projects. A significant component of the Wilson Scholars experience is the participation in service-learning and civic engagement.

Wilson received an Outstanding Alumnus Award from Appalachian’s College of Arts and Sciences in 2005, and the Alumni Association’s Outstanding Service Award in 2006 and Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2001. He also was a commencement speaker in 2001. He also was the speaker at a special co-presentation of the inaugural Blue Cross and Blue Shield Lecture and the 52nd Harlan E. Boyles Distinguished CEO Lecture at Appalachian in 2013. Wilson earned his law degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law before entering private law practice in Lenoir. In 1992, he was named general counsel

· What is the name of your zeta and your number?Sigma-Epsilon 502

· Where are you originally from?Huntsville, Ala.

· When did you start at IHQ and in what position?June 2015 as an Educational Leadership Consultant

· What is your favorite LCA memory as an undergrad?Meeting George Spasyk at General Assembly 2010.

· Your favorite memory as a staff member?Establishing a colony at Syracuse University

· Favorite piece of the Coat of Arms?Squire’s Helmet (Honor without Rank)

· Most played song as of recent?“The Coma Machine” by Between the Buried and Me

· Last thing you googled?Health benefits of Chia Seeds

· What movie can you not resist watching if it’s on?Tropic Thunder

JOSH WOMACK EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM SPECIALIST


Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa)


Initiated two new brothers in Nu Class, we are at EK1585. Our very own alumni, John McGarrigle spoke at Drexel’s Memorial Day Observance. Alumni Mike “Stubbs” McKenna (1972) on May 16, 2015 coached the Mount Saint Joseph Girls Varsity Eight crew team to their second consecutive victory and fourth title in six years at the 89th Annual Stotesbury Cup Regatta, the largest high school rowing regatta in the world. The ELC visited EKZ. Hosted the annual Awards Banquet for EKZ. Multiple brotherhood events were held, like video game night, RiverSharks baseball game, and Broad Street Run. Held a ZAX session.

Cornell (Omicron)

C h a p t e r N e w s Omicron’s 22 graduating seniors posed for this group picture at the ZBT house, their temporary home for this school year, while Edgemoor, our 115 year-old Chapter House, is undergoing a major renovation. With such a large outgoing class of seniors, it is fortunate that the house did so well in last spring’s rush with 18 new Associate Members, one of the largest classes of new members at Cornell. Omicron also plans to continue its recruiting success in the upcoming fall rush period.

On the alumni front, Omicron is very pleased that the major renovation shown above continues to move forward on schedule so that our undergraduates will be able to return to the chapter house for classes next fall. The funding for the campaign including alumni pledges and a Brother Bond Program, bank financing and undergraduate rents now supports a historic $2.7 million construction project. The grand opening of the new Edgemoor will be celebrated by the undergraduates and a large contingent of visiting alumni on Cornell’s homecoming weekend from Sept. 17 to 20. Contact the house for further details.

JOSH WOMACK EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM SPECIALIST

· What is the name of your zeta and your number?Sigma-Epsilon 502

· Where are you originally from?Huntsville, Alabama

· When did you start at IHQ and in what position?June 2015 as an Educational Leadership Consultant

· What is your favorite LCA memory as an undergrad?Meeting George Spasyk at General Assembly 2010.

· Your favorite memory as a staff member?Establishing a colony at Syracuse University

· Favorite piece of the Coat of Arms?Squire’s Helmet (Honor without Rank)

· Most played song as of recent?“The Coma Machine” by Between the Buried and Me

· Last thing you googled?Health benefits of Chia Seeds

· What movie can you not resist watching if it’s on?Tropic Thunder

JOSH WOMACK interview continued

· Favorite sports teams?Alabama Crimson Tide, Mississippi State Bulldogs

· Meet anyone alive or dead, who do you pick?Nelson Mandela

· What super power would you pick?


Eastern Illinois (Phi-Alpha)

C h a p t e r N e w sPhi-Alpha Zeta at Eastern Illinois University founded in 1975 and chartered on Feb. 5, 1977 initiated their 1,000 member into the Brotherhood of Lambda Chi Alpha on April 24, 2015.

Eastern Kentucky (Phi-Beta)

C h a p t e r N e w s The chapter recently hosted its annual Car Smash event, and raised money For Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The chapter also paired with Lambda-Lambda Zeta at Western Kentucky University, and held a joint ritual at WKU.

Eastern Michigan (Sigma-Kappa)

A l u m n i N e w sDue to his ongoing commitment to philanthropy, Mike Brady of Generosity Wealth Management has been awarded the Kevin B. Farrell Award for Leadership. The award is given out annually by the Denver Southeast chapter of Rotary International in memory of Mr. Farrell, a former rotarian. This award is given to a rotarian who serves as a positive role model to others in inspiring youth and adults to become strong leaders, in facing challenges in an optimistic manner, and in acting consistently in demonstrations of service above self. Brady was announced

as the winner of the award at the District 5450 Rotary Conference in Keystone on Saturday May 2, and received the award at the club’s May 9 meeting. Over the years, Brady has been involved with more than 11 different causes, eight of which he still works with today. Furthering his commitment to charity work, Brady built his business, Generosity Wealth Management, on the premise of

“MIKE BRADY

HAS BEEN

AWARDED THE

KEVIN B. FARRELL AWARD”


Elon (Delta-Pi)


The chapter received the award for the most improved GPA in IFC at Elon this year. Elon also raised 47,775.60 pounds of food from their efforts with Watermelon Bust. Brother Cameron Bloomer, a former Alpha and Tau who has contributed to pushing the chapter to tremendous heights, received the Delta Pi Man of the Year award. Thirty brothers participated in a second cleaning of Highway 87, which has been adopted by our chapter in honor of a fallen brother, Victor Wisniewski. The chapter hosted our 2nd Annual 5k Road Race for pulmonary hypertension and raised $745 dollars to help fight the disease. Chapter Seniors graduated on May 23 and are excited for a new chapter in their lives.

helping and being generous to others. Robert Brown, Brady’s nominator for the award, praised Brady on his involvement with Rotary International, and gave insight into how much he has helped the group grow. “One of the core beliefs Mike has is that openness and transparency, with straight talk, is the most respectful course” said Brown, “Mike gives up weekends and evenings to work with young and adult, always trying to do his part to move them along towards being better persons.” Although clearly deserving of the award, Brady is also humbled. “Helping others has been, and always will be, very close to my heart. I want to do all I can to make a difference in the lives of others.” Brady plans to continue his involvement with the causes that he is passionate about, as well as to help others through Generosity Wealth Management, Rotary, and his various charitable activities.

“WE RECEIVED

THE AWARD

FOR THE MOST

IMPROVED GPA IN IFC AT

ELON THIS YEAR.”


Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi)

C h a p t e r N e w sEpsilon Xi Zeta chapter news Spring 2015:

J a n u a r yInstalled our new High Zeta officers

F e b r u a r y Held an associate member ceremony for three men

M a r c hFSC homecoming weekend: alumni came and visited with active brothers and got a chance to see how the chapter is doing. Held our annual Lambda Chi Alpha golf tournament and for the first time an active brother won the over all tournament! After rejoining the team this past January, Brother Alex McClanahan and the Florida Southern Colleges Men’s Basketball team won the NCAA Division II National Championship in Evansville, Ind.(Second in program history, 1981)

A p r i l Initiated five new brothers in to our bond. Of these 5 we honorary initiated the Mayor of Lakeland, Howard Wiggs.Zeta Tau Alpha sister Gabriella Rivard was serenaded as our new chapter sweetheart for 2015 at our formal.Epsilon Xi won the FSC 2014-2015 Men’s All-Sports Championship for intramurals sports M a yTwelve brothers graduated from Florida Southern College Follow Epsilon Xi on social media and visit our website at: www.fsclambdachi.com Follow us on Instagram: @lambdachi_fscFollow us on Twitter: @lambdachifsc

Franklin (Kappa-Gamma)

O m e g a sBrothers Brent Riley and J.D. Richards have passed away.Dave Richards was as an extraordinary example of the human experience. Fraternity Brother, cross country coach at Franklin College, teacher, Johnson County Deputy Sheriff, Johnson County Sheriff,United States Marine Corps member during the early days of Vietnam, Lt. Cornell USMC, USMC Indiana State Highway Police Officer, and an overall great human being.


grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Comer and his parents.

Richard was the founder of Square Donuts. He was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church where he served as an usher and Lambda Chi Alpha at Indiana State University. Richard was a football letterman at Indiana State and was drafted by the Chicago Bears. He was assistant football coach at Rose Hulman for 22 years. Richard served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Second Lieutenant.

Mass of Christian Burial was at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015 in St. Benedict Catholic Church with Father Martin Day officiating. Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation was from 4 – 7 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2015 in Callahan & Hughes Funeral Home, 605 South 25th Street. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Iowa (Iota-Chi)


Lambda Chi Alpha - Iota-Chi Zeta once again hosted our annual Teeter-Totter-A-Thon philanthropy event from Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 3. Partnering fraternity and sorority members took turns teeter-tottering for 48 hours straight to raise money for our chosen charity, as well as playing live music and grilling food for people walking by on busy Clinton Street, which is where the Old Capitol and the pentacrest is located.

For a second time this year we raised money for the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) to help fund brain tumor research. Originally, we have continued to choose this organization to keep the memory alive of our late brother, Jake Matt Duff, since he lost his battle with a brain tumor on Jan. 25, 2013. The committee for the

Illinois (Chi)


Chapter members and alumni recently completed a project renovating a room in the chapter house. The chapter and alumni are looking forward to a huge reunion for our last homecoming in our current house. All alumni are welcome and extremely encouraged to attend, feel free to look at the flyer for more information or visit illinilambdachi.com.

Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon)

O m e g aRichard A. Comer, Sr., 80, of Terre Haute died Monday, May 4, 2015 in his residence. He was born Aug. 9, 1934 in Lafayette, Ind. to Edward Comer and Bertha Littiken Comer.

Survivors include his son, Rick Comer; four daughters, Debbie Hawkins, Deanne Locke, Darla Layton and Deninne Helton; fourteen grandchildren; and seven great

“IOTACHI

ZETA ONCE

AGAIN HOSTED

OUR ANNUAL TEETER-

TOTTER-A THON.”


James Madison (Phi-Eta)

C h a p t e r N e w sJames Madison University (JMU) Bookstore recently hosted a one-day food drive that resulted in the collection of 400 pounds of food to benefit Virginia’s Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. Community members were encouraged to donate 10 pounds of food, or 10 canned items, to receive discounts on Apple and Dell products at the bookstore. Each person that donated also received a coupon to redeem a free water bottle from JMU Bookstore’s CyberZone and an opportunity to participate in a prize drawing.

The event was a campus-wide effort as the bookstore partnered with James Madison’s University Recreation, Athletic Marketing and Dining Services as well as the local Lambda Chi Alpha and Phi Mu chapters for drawing prizes and for operating three satellite donation sites. Several campus members graciously donated and thanked the bookstore team for their support of the community. The idea for the food drive came to JMU Bookstore’s CyberZone Manager John Morris on a cold and snowy day in March.

“I thought there are people in the community choosing between food and heat right now,” said Morris. “I had no idea the extent of those affected until checking with the local food bank. The statistics were staggering.”

In the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank service area one in 10 people do not know where their next meal is coming from. The 400 pounds of food collected roughly equals 333 meals the Food Bank will be able to provide hungry neighbors within the Shenandoah Valley.

“Unemployment and underemployment are taking a toll on thousands of families in our region. Many are hard-working, piecing together low-wage and part-time work to get by,” said Michael McKee, CEO of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. “Those who are most vulnerable rely on the Food Bank, including more than three in 10 children.”

philanthropy, headed by Ron Arder, started planning for the event back in January to figure how we were going to accomplish our goal of $7,500 this year (last year’s total was a little over $5,000). Some of these efforts to achieve our goal included creating an incentive program for our brothers raising money, produce Teeter-Totter-A-Thon wristbands, memorial wristbands, obtain sponsorship from approximately eight businesses, set up an online donations page for people to share on social media, raffle off numerous prizes, and raising money from donations from those stopping by our event who wanted to donate the change they had on them.

Over the course of the weekend, we had several hundred people stop by to give their support for this great cause. With the help of our partners, the gentlemen of Delta Upsilon and ladies of Phi Beta Chi, we raised over $10,000! Without a doubt, this year’s philanthropy was the biggest and most successful one we have ever had. We are incredibly grateful for the immense support we received this year to far surpass our goal of $7,500 and doubling last year’s total. As one of Jake’s family members told us this past weekend, “Jake Duff is smiling down at us.” We could not be any happier to end the semester on a bright note, and we look forward to beating $10,000 next year!

“JMU BOOK-STORE

RECENTLY HOSTED A ONE-

DAY FOOD DRIVE THAT

RESULTED IN THE

COLLECTION OF 400

POUNDS”


The efforts of Morris and the entire JMU Bookstore team reflect Follett’s greater commitment to engage and contribute to local communities. This value for community is shared across Follett’s network of more than 950 campus stores as well as its home office locations. Follett Higher Education Group’s General Merchandise team, located in Westchester, Ill., also recently donated an abundance of food samples to the Aurora Food Pantry. To learn more about Follett’s varied corporate social responsibility efforts, please visit www.follett.com/community. We could not have done this special community event without the efforts and enthusiasm of the Lambda Chi brothers at Phi Eta/JMU.

Kansas (Zeta-Iota)


The brothers of Zeta-Iota are glad to have ended the semester with some positive momentum in recruitment and look forward to carrying that progress forward into the summer as well as the next semester. As always, if you would like to recommend a man for recruitment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our chapter leaders or submit through our chapter website at www.lambdachiku.com. We would also like to cordially invite all alumni and families to our annual golf tournament which will take place at Alvamar Golf Course on June 13, with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Please contact House Corp President Bob Walrafen for more information. Finally, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of brothers George Detsios(ZI 128) and Roger Johnson(ZI 341). Obituaries are listed below Detsios: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/kansascity/obituary.aspx?n=george-detsios&pid=174823822&fhid=14160#sthash.WEovXAHQ.dpuf Johnson: http://www.newhopefh.com/obituaries/Roger-Johnson-9/#!/Obituary

Kettering - A (Lambda-Epsilon A)


Lambda-Epsilon A & B both celebrated their 51st anniversary this past year. The brothers celebrated by playing a game of softball, grilling and having a nice dinner.


New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha)


We congratulate two of our brothers who have recently graduated, Kolby Heid and Garrett Stapp.

North Dakota (Epsilon-Zeta)

C h a p t e r N e w s Graduating seniors for the spring of 2015: John Mitzel (EZ 1081, Fargo, N.D., banking and financial investments), Joseph Czerniewski (EZ 1094, Chicago, Ill., aviation management), Dan Frank (EZ 1104, Jackson Center, Ohio, criminal justice) and Vinny Herelle (transfer - BE 1670, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., psychology). Although we will be losing some older members, we have also gained a few new members to our chapter: Cameron Pederson (West Fargo, N.D., accounting), Dakota Neether (Watford City, N.D., biology), Nick Stephan (Farmington, Minn., civil engineering), Ryan Danielson (Stillwater, Minn., commercial aviation), and Luke Gage (Wailuku Maui, Hawaii, commercial aviation). Graduating senior, John Mitzel, received the “Dr. Robert Boyd Outstanding Student Senator of the Year Award,” by displaying his skills in UND’s student government.

“ALTHOUGH WE WILL

BE LOSING SOME

OLDER MEMBERS,

WE HAVE ALSO

GAINED A FEW NEW MEMBERS

TO OUR CHAPTER.”


founded on the Rhode Island State College campus. On Oct. 9, 1914, Gamma Delta Sigma was chartered by Lambda Chi Alpha and the Eta Chapter was founded at the Rhode Island State College, which later grew to became the University of Rhode Island. Their continued presence on campus makes them the oldest active national fraternity at the University of Rhode Island.

Attending the celebration were former Governor of the

State of Rhode Island, the Honorable Lincoln Almond (Eta 495), Marilyn Almond, and Mr. Jon Williamson who represented the Lambda Chi Alpha International Fraternity

O m e g aLewis Jennings Bain was born on April 11, 1914. The Eta Chapter at the University of Rhode Island was founded on Oct. 9, 1914. Both turned 100 in 2014. In Sept. 1932, a young man named Lewis Jennings Bain entered the University of Rhode Island as a member of the class of 1936. After visiting several fraternities during the rush period in the Fall of 1932, Lewis concluded that the Eta chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha was his first choice. The Eta chapter brothers agreed and in January 1933, Lewis was initiated into Lambda Chi Alpha with the Zeta number of 225. On Lambda Chi Alpha’s IHQ alumni roster for the Eta chapter, Lewis was oldest living member of the chapter.

A l u m n i N e w sAlumni brother Jerry Vandewalle has been selected by the Grand High Zeta to receive the Order of Achievement Award this year. The chapter’s bi-annual newsletter, or formally called the “EZ Reader,” was recently sent out. The link to the Reader is as followed. http://www.ndlxa.org/documents/Spring%202015%20EZ%20Reader%20Final%205-12-15.pdf

Northwestern (Alpha-Iota)

A l u m n i N e w sDana Farber is participating in his 12th year of riding 200 miles across Massachusetts to fight cancer, in memory of his father and nephew. To support Farber, please visit:http://www2.pmc.org/profile/MK0105 Any amount is appreciated. The Pan Mass Challenge is the largest and the most successful fundraiser in the country. The challenges hopes to eclipse the $500 million mark in total money raised.

Rhode Island

C h a p t e r N e w sIn 1912, a local fraternity, Gamma Delta Sigma, was


On March 24, 2014, the Greek Advisor at the University of Rhode Island received an email from Ms. Christine Lennon. She indicated that her grandfather, Lewis Jennings Bain graduated from URI in 1936 and was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. The family was planning a surprise 100th birthday party for him on April 12, 2014, and would like to invite someone from his Lambda Chi Alpha chapter at URI to participate in Brother Bain’s party. The URI Greek Advisor forwarded the email to the newly certified/appointed High Pi and the House Director for the Eta chapter who quickly notified local alumni and the current chapter leadership team.

After several phone conversations and emails with the family, numerous ideas for recognizing Brother Bain were put forward, reviewed and a plan was developed that included support from the chapter and local alumni, as well as IHQ. While the alumni and Eta brothers addressed their actions, the High Pi contacted IHQ, specifically Mr. George Taylor, to discuss potential options for assisting us in recognizing Brother Bain’s 100th birthday. In response, IHQ provided a special certificate congratulating Lewis on his 100th birthday, as well as a personal note to Lewis from Mr. William Farkas, Chief Executive Officer. On Saturday, April 12, 2014, Eta Chapter’s High Pi had the privilege of meeting Brother Bain. During the ensuing conversation, Brother Bain described his memories not only of the four years at URI, but more importantly his terrific experience as a Lambda Chi Alpha brother and alumnus. Following this enjoyable conversation, the High Pi presented Brother Bain with the commemorative certificate from IHQ, Mr. Farkas’s personal note, and a Lambda Chi Alpha flag from the chapter. Brother Lewis’ family expressed their gratitude to Lambda Chi Alpha IHQ, the brothers of the Eta chapter at URI, and the Eta chapter alumni for helping to make this a very special day for Brother Bain.

The brothers and alumni had hoped that Brother Bain would be their guest of honor at the 100th anniversary of Eta chapter at the University of Rhode Island that was planned for Oct. 25, 2014. Unfortunately, prior to the celebration Brother Bain’s family informed us that he was not feeling well and would not be able to make the 100th anniversary celebration. Three weeks after the 100th anniversary celebration, Brother Bain’s family notified the High Pi that he passed from this world on Nov. 11, 2014.


Tennessee - Chattanooga (Zeta-Phi)


On May 2, the Zeta-Phi chapter graduated 10 brothers from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. On May 16, three new brothers were initiated into the Zeta-Phi chapter: Colton Hailey (1185), Bry McDowell (1186), and Colton Winkler (1187). Brothers Daniel Henson, Jonathan Lewis, Jay Nguyen and Brandon Williams participated in the LeaderShape Institute, which took place on Lookout Mountain, Ga. from May 4-9. From May 12-29, brother Connor Pearce attended Salabauski Air Assault School in Fort Campbell, Ken., and received his Air Assault Badge. Soldiers are trained on the missions performed by rotary wing aircraft, aircraft safety, aeromedical evacuation procedures, pathfinder operations, principles and techniques of combat assaults, rappelling techniques, and sling-load operations

On May 17, brothers Joseph Buckley and Taylor Neiswander competed in the IronMan Chattanooga, a race comprised of a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile swim and 13.1 mile run. Our High Pi, Juan Moreno, recently graduated from the PEF and Hamilton County Department of Education Leadership Fellows Program.

Troy (Sigma-Tau)

C h a p t e r N e w sFor a second semester, the Brothers of Sigma Tau Zeta, volunteered at the Pioneer Museum of Alabama for their biannual community service in Troy, Alabama. The brothers spent their afternoon back and forth between classes getting messy by moving heavy objects and landscaping around the grounds.

“1.2 MILE SWIM,

56 MILE SWIM,

AND 13.1 MILE

RUN.”Truman State (Phi-Psi)

A l u m n i N e w sThirty Phi-Psi Zeta alumni brothers retreated to Oak Terrace Golf Resort in Pana, Ill. from May 1 – 3. They enjoyed brotherhood with 18 holes of golf on Friday afternoon and 36 on Saturday. The brothers in attendance spanned ten years with initiates from the 90s through 2000s


Union (Lambda-Zeta)


Lambda Chi Alpha at Union University won the University Variety show in small group for the fifth year in a row. The theme was a Brother trying to find a date. The show including singing, dancing, and acting, which brought the crowd to its feet.

Virginia Commonwealth (Pi-Tau)

C h a p t e r N e w sOn May 23, 2015, Nicholas Harlowe became the first Brother of Pi-Tau Zeta to get married! The wedding was beautiful, fun and true to both the bride and groom, featuring seating on hay bales, drinks served in Mason jars and a barnyard dance reception. The ceremony and reception were attended by brothers and alumni of Pi-Tau Zeta, as well as alumni from other chapters, including chapter advisor and Grand High Phi, David Huffine. We

would like to extend an enormous congratulations to the newlyweds Nicholas and Amanda Harlowe. We wish them a long life together filled with joy and happiness.

Virginia Tech (Sigma-Lambda)

C h a p t e r N e w sLambda Chi Alpha at Virginia Tech sends off their seniors to their new lives outside of the college, but we would like to remind them that they still are our brothers. Our chapter lost over 15 brothers to graduation this spring, with several more returning to finish up one more semester. We look forward to the fall as we greet new associate members, starting their life in our fraternal bond. While we are enjoying some much needed time off, when we return we will hit the ground running, kicking off our largest philanthropy of the year, Watermelon Bust, which looks to be more promising than ever under the direction of Christopher Connors and Logan Shain. Also, congratulations goes out to our High Alpha, Paolo Guma, for also manning the helm of the Club Baseball team as president.

Wabash (Alpha-Kappa)

A l u m n i N e w sOn May 2, 2015, Greg Castanias was elected to the Board of Directors of the Gladney Center for Adoption in Fort Worth, Texas for a two-year term of service beginning on Sept. 1, 2015. Founded in 1887 as the Texas Children’s Home and Aid Society, the Gladney Center is the United States’ oldest continuously operating adoption agency. For over 125 years, Gladney has been a pioneer and leading voice for improving the lives of children, adoptive families and birth parents in the United States and around the world.

“NICHOLAS HARLOWE

BECAME THE FIRST BROTHER

OF PI-TAU ZETA TO

GET MARRIED”

enjoying fabulous golf weather and a sub-par “fight of the century” (Mayweather v. Pacquiao). A special thank you to Shawn McGuire for organizing the golf retreat weekend.


Greg and his wife Jane —who was elected to the Board of Directors of the National Council for Adoption in Alexandria, Va. earlier this year — are passionate advocates for the cause of adoption for two very important reasons — their daughters Alexandra (Alex), born in 2006, and Gabriella-Anne (Ella-Anne), born in 2009, both of whom were adopted through the Gladney Center.Greg also currently serves on the Board of Directors of the fraternity’s Educational Foundation.

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)

C h a p t e r N e w sTheta-Tau Zeta congratulates 20 seniors on graduating from Wake Forest this semester. Some of the places they will be employed include Barclays Capital, Wells Fargo, EY, AlphaSights, Suntrust, the U.S. State Department, Credit Suisse and BB&T. We wish all of our seniors good luck in their future endeavors.

Washington State (Tau)

O m e g aBrother Larry VandenBrink, passed away in Portland Ore. on February 11, 2015. He was 66 years old and will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

William Jewell (Epsilon-Nu)

A l u m n i N e w sAnthony Shop, EN-1132 and 2005 alumnus of William Jewel College, was named to the Washington Business Journal’s “40 Under 40”http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2015/04/20/40-under-40-honorees-part-three.html#g2

Ed Leonard will be moving to Birmingham, Ala. this summer. He has accepted an invitation to serve as Birmingham-Southern College’s 14th President - (http://www.bsc.

edu/communications/news/2015/20150513-newpres.cfm)

Wichita State Colony (Wichita State Colony)

C h a p t e r N e w sDuring the month of May, the brothers of Colony 296 welcomed two new associate members. We are continuing

our climb to colonization with hope and determination in our hearts. We also plan on continuing our recruitment processes, which garnered the most signed bid cards on Wichita State University’s campus, throughout the summer.

“LAMBDA CHI

ALPHA AT VIRGINIA

TECH SENDS

OFF THEIR SENIORS TO THEIR

NEW LIVES

OUTSIDE OF THE

COLLEGE”

June 2015 Cross & Crescent

Documents

Transcript of June 2015 Cross & Crescent