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growing
the
Fraternity
Health &
Wellness
AlumNI
NEWS
Guided
by Passion
Stories of Delt Jeffrey P. Sinelli (Michigan State
Entrepreneurs University, 1990) is making the world a
better place one sandwich at a time
Confirm your interest to stay on the mailing list for the print edition of The Rainbow
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
husband, a father and a man. our vital role as mentors and coaches to
This edition of The Rainbow focuses our younger Delt charges.
on the doers. Those of entrepreneurial This January, we hold our first-ever
spirit who find what is wrong and try to all-presidents retreat, the Presidents
right it, see what is missing and try to Excellence Institute (PresX), in Dallas.
provide it, imagine what can be and seek All newly-elected undergraduate
to turn their vision into reality. presidents will meet to network, share
As Delts, we embrace the values ideas, and learn the fundamentals of good
of a life well and honorably lived. We leadership. For the first time, we will
believe in the values of honesty and begin our year with all presidents equally
industry. We strive for an unselfish and well trained, supported and ready for the
noble life. Values called us to join Delta difficult and important leadership job that
International President Tau Delta in the first place, and which lies ahead.
Steven A. Paquette
(Syracuse University, 1977) we have found present throughout our I want to thank our donors to the
president@delts.org Delt experience. Please take a few Delta Tau Delta Educational Foundation,
minutes and learn what these Delts have for without your support, the Volunteer
I am pretty excited about this particular accomplished, how they did it and why Coaching Summit, PresX and Division
issue of The Rainbow. In it, we take the their stories stand as examples of what Conferences would look very different.
opportunity to brag a little about some each of us can accomplish as Delts, in our We will bring the programming
really good Delts, graduates of four unique way, if we stay true to the journey. together in February 2020 through our
different decades, who acknowledge This year, we are excited to bring fresh five division conferences, joining the
the impact they are making in the world new programming to our undergraduate newly trained presidents with each
is, in some measure, a product of their brothers to help aid in that journey and to chapter’s full executive team and their
undergraduate experiences as members of provide new and concrete opportunities trusted advisors.
Delta Tau Delta. to display their own entrepreneurial spirit Delta Tau Delta has been making
Many of us, including me, believe within their brotherhood and on their good men better for a long time now.
Delta Tau Delta can have a profound campuses. Chances to make the right The sort of men featured in this issue on
impact on our young brothers. Not choices, every time, to be there for one entrepreneurship—Delts like you. With
so much by creating good character another when it counts. your continued support, we will keep
as defining it—giving it voice, We started the fall semester with a on doing for as long as young men need
validation and purpose. I have often mid-year Arch Chapter meeting, held in our support in a complex and changing
said the opportunity to be guided by conjunction with the Volunteer Coaching world.
alumni members and by my fellow Summit. Nearly 100 loyal volunteers The future is bright, and it is indeed
undergraduate brothers, had a significant participated in workshops meant to a great time to be a member of Delta
influence on who I became as a lawyer, a challenge us and refine and improve upon Tau Delta.
HISTORY OF THE RAINBOW : Editor-in-Chief W.C. Buchanan (Bethany College, 1873) launched the first issue of The Delta Tau Delta magazine as The Crescent in 1877. As a
condition of the Fraternity merger with the Rainbow Fraternity in 1886 the name of the magazine was changed to The Rainbow. Today the summer and winter issues of The
Rainbow are printed and mailed, those and all other issues, are also available online. Visit deltataudeltaarchive.com to view issues from 1877 to present.
Do you know a Delt with a story to share? Upcoming issues will feature Delts in politics and sports.
MAGAZINE MISSION SUBMIT A STORY
• Inform members of the events, activities and concerns of interest to members of the All members are encouraged to submit news and potential features along with high-
Fraternity. resolution photographs by emailing rainbow@delts.org.
• Attract and involve members of the Fraternity via appropriate coverage, information
ADDRESS CHANGES
and opinion stories.
Use the MYDELT LOGIN on on the upper right at delts.org to update your contact
• Educate present and potential members on pertinent issues, persons, events and
information or visit www.delts.org/alumni. You may also call 317-284-0203 or write to
ideas so members may be aware of and appreciate their heritage as Delts.
rainbow@delts.org or 10000 Allisonville Road, Fishers, IN 46038-2008.
• Serve as an instrument of public relations for the Fraternity by presenting an image
of the Fraternity commensurate with its quality and stature. DIGITAL EDITION ONLY
• Entertain readers with its information and quality writing and editing, so it is a If you would prefer to receive an email notification when each new magazine is posted
pleasure to read and share with others. online please contact rainbow@delts.org.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR UNSUBSCRIBE
Letters to the editors may be emailed to rainbow@delts.org Please contact rainbow@delts.org or call 317-284-0203.
WINTER 2020
CONTENTS
DELTA TAU DELTA FRATERNITY | WINTER 2020
RAINBOW VOL. 146 | ISSUE #1
6 20 22
PUBLISHER
Jack Kreman
EDITOR
Jean Lloyd
DESIGNER
Justin Pyles
CONTRIBUTORS
Janine Wampler
Jim Russell
Tony Vukusich
ARCH CHAPTER
Steven A. Paquette, President
Bruce Peterson, Vice President
John Hancock, Second Vice President
Rosario Palmieri, Treasurer
Anthony Albanese, Secretary
Ashley Wollam, Dir. of Member Development
Ross Theriault, Eastern Division President
Jeff Pelletier, Northern Division President
Mark Nichols, Southern Division President
Mike Tankersley, Western Pacific Div. Pres.
Chris Wisbrock, Western Plains Div. President
FEATURES
EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS GROWING THE FRATERNITY - P. 6
Daniel A. Dungan, Chairman
Delta Tau Delta returned to two campuses and added one new campus with three crescent
Jeffry L. Henning, Vice Chairman
John W. Gleeson, Treasurer colonies established in the fall of 2019. Recruitment for two more begins in January.
Kent R. Hance, Secretary
Murray M. Blackwelder
Alan G. Brackett
HEALTH AND WELLNESS - P. 20
J. Coley Clark The Fraternity turns attention to the best way to address health and wellness, a priority area
Paul J. DeMand for undergraduate members.
David B. Hughes
Gregory N. Kazarian
Steven A. Paquette GOOD VIBES GREAT SANDWICHES - P. 22
Bruce J. Peterson
Alexander R. Schriver The story of founder, CEO and chief vibe officer at Which Wich Superior Sandwiches
Michael D. Shonrock is the first of several feature stories about Delts turning a vision into reality through
Keith J. Steiner entrepreneurial spirit.
Norval B. Stephens, Jr.
Daniel C. Stith IN EVERY ISSUE
Steven C. Vilks
T. Scott Wittman 2 HEADLINES OF THE PAST 42 ALUMNI NEWS
Ashley J. Wollam
4 VOLUNTEER UPDATE 48 JDRF PARTNERSHIP
CONTACT 6 FRATERNITY GROWTH 50 FOUNDATION NEWS
Contact The Rainbow staff at rainbow@delts.org
or 317-284-0203. 8 FRATERNITY HEADLINES 51 CHAPTER ETERNAL
Delta Tau Delta is a proud member of the 22 DELT STORIES
Fraternity Communications Association and the
North-American Interfraternity Conference.
ON THE COVER
Jeffrey P. Sinelli (Michigan State University, 1990), a serial entrepreneur and founder,
CEO and chief vibe officer at Which Wich Superior Sandwiches talks about his sandwich
empire, his philosophy on life, his entrepreneurial spirit, his passion for giving back, his Delt
experience and the vibe that shapes his outlook.
WINTER 2020 | 1
HEADLINES OF THE PAST
10 TO 100 YEARS AGO IN THE RAINBOW
HEADLINES OF THE PAST
10 YEARS AGO (2009) 25 YEARS AGO (1994)
The Fraternity’s working home was rededicated on Nov. 13, 2009, The Rainbow captured several poignant comments from the
as the Fisher-Nichols Memorial Headquarters in Fishers, Ind., Fraternity’s third leadership academy’s grateful participants,
to honor its primary benefactors, John W. Fisher (University of including this from Epsilon Mu Chapter President P. Chris Mickel
Tennessee, 1938) and John W. Nichols (University of Oklahoma, (Ball State University, 1995). “I have learned how to create a
1936). Both were chapter presidents who became lifelong friends vision, communicate and entrust that vision to others and most of
as young alumni. all that I can believe in myself to realize that vision; regardless of
whether that vision deals with the Fraternity or life.”
2 | WINTER 2020
HEADLINES OF THE PAST
50 YEARS AGO (1969)
In strong words as relevant today as when written
in the fall 1969 Rainbow, Fraternity President
Robert L. Hartford (Ohio University, 1936) said, “It
is very apparent to anyone close to the fraternity
world that chapters which do not change to match
the needs of today’s undergraduates are chapters
which will not attract pledges and hence are
chapters which will not live long. Delta Tau Delta is
not in the business of perpetuating dying chapters.
As a national fraternity, we ought to be able to
provide the necessary channels of information
through which every chapter can benefit from
the experiences of all as we progress to meet the
needs of today and of tomorrow.”
75 YEARS AGO (1944)
As World War II moved into its fourth and final year, the first signs of re-emergence
to pre-war campus life dawned across the Greek world. Many Delt chapters, which
had operated at minimal manpower or ceased activity altogether, resumed operations
in the fall 1944 term. In a first person Rainbow story, William M. Hutchison (Indiana
University 1920) related much appreciated assistance from the Purdue Delts who
helped re-open the vacant Beta Alpha Shelter at Indiana. It had been converted to
wartime use by the U.S. Navy.
“The entire Gamma Lambda Chapter (including brand-new pledges) was on hand
to complete the job of making a house look like a home. And to do a hard-hitting job
of rushing. Some who started moving the piano at 0800 Saturday were still hanging
pictures at 0800 Sunday. Cooperation reached some sort of climax at 4 a.m. Sunday,
when the 20-foot venetian blind in the ruckus room was renovated. The blind was
measured off in four-foot sections. Five men applied cleaning compound to 10 half-
a-dozen slats, then stepped back. Another five men jumped in to finish with polishing
cloths. Newspapers talk about rivalry between Purdue and Indiana. Bunk! Maybe
there’s a ‘we’re-the-best’ feeling just before the final football game of the season.
But the 100 percent cooperation between Gamma Lambda and Beta Alpha is just one
more reason I’m proud to be a Delta Tau Delta.”
1952: Four Delts, at the Armed Forces 100 YEARS AGO (1919)
Information School at Fort Slocum in The passing of the Fraternity’s leadership from Col. James B. Curtis (Butler
New York. From left to right, Gordon University, 1880) to Bruce Bielaski (George Washington University, 1904) was
Boswell Jr. (University of Alabama, highlighted in coverage of the first Boston Karnea. Curtis had served as president
1940), Oliver J. Edwards (University of since 1907, still the longest tenure in Delt history. Indeed, it measured 20 percent
Florida, 1943), Everett J. Grandelius of the Fraternity’s history to that point. His unflagging efforts included a zeal for
(Michigan State University, 1951), and improved scholarship, the establishment of the Central Office and the careful
Arthur Lutton (Tufts University, 1951). nurturing of the fledgling Endowment Fund. Curtis also played a key role in the
formation and initial development of the National Interfraternity Conference during
his Delt leadership.
Compiled by Jim Russell, (Purdue University, 1975), Executive Vice President Emeritus
WINTER 2020 | 3
VOLUNTEER UPDATE
GUIDING THE
NEXT GENERATION
VOLUNTEER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Delta Tau Delta is looking for volunteers to strengthen communities, undergraduates and themselves as part
of a volunteer advisory team. Volunteer advisory teams are designed to benefit each chapter and colony by
providing advisors for each undergraduate officer and committee. Volunteer advisory teams help volunteers
focus on one area of operation and share the time commitment associated with advising chapters and
colonies. This list below includes chapters, colonies or planned colonies in need of alumni volunteers. Those
in bold need a lead chapter advisor.:
• University of Georgia (Beta Delta) • Illinois State University (Theta Phi) Crescent
• Purdue University (Gamma Lambda) Colony*
• University of California—Los Angeles (Delta Iota) • Quincy University (Iota Delta)
• Westminster College (Delta Omicron) • Florida Atlantic University (Iota Nu)
• Bowling Green State University (Delta Tau) • Florida Institute of Technology (Iota Xi)
• University of Delaware (Delta Upsilon) • University of Vermont (Iota Pi)
• Washington State University (Epsilon Gamma) • James Madison University (Kappa Beta)
• University of South Florida (Epsilon Pi) • College of Charleston (Kappa Zeta)
• Marquette University (Zeta Alpha) • University of Connecticut Crescent Colony
• Western Illinois University (Zeta Lambda) • Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Crescent
Colony
• The College of Idaho (Theta Psi)
• Northern Arizona University (Theta Omega)
Crescent Colony* *Planned 2020 expansion
For information about volunteer opportunities, please contact
Director of Volunteers Bentley Anderson at bentley.anderson@delts.org. As of 11/25/19
4 | WINTER 2020
VOLUNTEER UPDATE
Nigel Manick (University of California–Riverside, 2003) is a former chapter president who served previously as chapter advisor for Theta Lambda Chapter at
UC-Riverside for eight years. He was Western Pacific Division president from 2017 to 2019. After a relocation to Cleveland, he became chapter advisor for Zeta
Chapter at Case Western Reserve University and a division vice president.
VOLUNTEER Q&A WITH
NIGEL MANICK
HOW DID YOU
GET INVOLVED AS
After graduation, I
reached out to Matt
Nelson (University of
community. I truly
believe the Fraternity
provides opportunities
member of the
Fraternity. Not just
the good times
experience (or a
better one), you owe
it to our younger
A FRATERNITY
California-Riverside, for men to become you had with your brothers and the
VOLUNTEER? 1995), who was Theta better men and that brothers, but also Fraternity.
As an undergraduate,
Lambda’s chapter starts with volunteers the challenging
I always knew I
wanted to give back
advisor and in 2004, who dedicate their times that resulted WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE
I joined the team as time and talent to in disagreements TAKING ON A NEW ROLE
to the Fraternity. I
assistant advisor. working with our and hurt feelings and IN A NEW LOCATION?
always appreciated
undergraduate how you navigated Fun. Interesting.
alumni who were
willing to sacrifice
WHAT INSPIRES YOU chapters. tough situations. Challenging. I never
TO VOLUNTEER? Your undergraduate pictured myself
their time and
dedicate their talent The opportunity to WHAT ADVICE WOULD experience helped being an advisor for
provide mentorship YOU OFFER TO AN to shape you into a chapter outside of
to helping the men in
and coaching to ALUMNUS WHO HADN’T the person you are the West Pac, but I am
my chapter succeed.
undergraduate men today. If volunteering
Initially, I hoped to PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT very grateful to have
who are looking to your time and talent the opportunity to do
serve as a mentor ABOUT VOLUNTEERING? can help ensure that
or facilitate at a better themselves, Think about the so. Working with Zeta
the people around future members Chapter has been
session or two at a experience you had
them and the have the opportunity amazing.
division conference. as an undergraduate
to have a similar
WINTER 2020 | 5
FRATERNITY GROWTH
103 Founding Fathers at
SOUTH CAROLINA
Delta Tau Delta welcomed 103 men
into the Fraternity as new members of
Originally chartered in 1993, the Theta
Eta Chapter represents more than 450
Southern Mississippi, 2019) and Kobe
Nelson (Oregon State University, 2019).
the Theta Eta Crescent Colony at the alumni who have joined the Fraternity Additional Fraternity members gathered
University of South Carolina on Oct. 4, at U of SC. Delta Tau Delta is among 21 for the induction ceremony including
2019. The colony’s cumulative grade members of the Interfraternity Council at Southern Division President Mark Nichols
point average of 3.5 exceeds the all-male the campus which has an undergraduate (Kansas State University, 1991), Southern
average and the all-fraternity average. student population exceeding 26,000. Division Vice President Thomas Hill
Senior Chapter Leadership Consultant “Without Theta Eta, the Fraternity (Syracuse University, 1968), Don McKale,
Zack Day (University of Northern was missing something. The chapter (Iowa State University, 1966) who serves
Colorado, 2018) and Leadership has historically been a leader within our as chapter advisor for Theta Mu Chapter
Consultants Nick Pidgeon (University organization, and we look forward to the at Clemson University and Wayne Curtin
of South Florida, 2019), Brooks Rahaim chapter returning to prominence. It is (University of South Carolina, 1999).
(University of Southern Mississippi, indeed a great day to be a Delt,” said CEO Four undergraduates from Kappa Zeta
2019) and Kobe Nelson (Oregon State Jack Kreman. Chapter at the College of Charleston also
University, 2019) became immersed in The Ritual team performing the welcomed the new colony.
the campus culture at U of SC to gain an induction ceremony at the Capstone Hall The colony’s advisory team led by
understanding of the value Delta Tau Delta on campus included Colony Advisor David Baker includes Assistant Colony Advisor
could provide to students. Baker (University of South Carolina, Graham Newman (University of South
“We were able to add value in a way 2000), Assistant Colony Advisor Bryan Carolina, 2001), Assistant Advisor of
much greater than originally planned and Chavez (Allegheny College, 2013), and Finance Will Anderson (University of
have a strong group of 103 men committed Chapter Leadership Consultants Nick South Carolina, 2001) and Assistant
to making a positive impact in the Pidgeon (University of South Florida, Advisor of Academics Cody McHale
community,” said Day. 2019), Brooks Rahaim (University of (University of South Carolina, 2014). Δ
6 | WINTER 2020
FRATERNITY GROWTH
31 Members Inducted at Southern
Illinois University Edwardsville
Delta Tau Delta added a new and coming school in the
campus to its roll welcoming region and aligns well with
31 founding fathers of the our emphasis on student
Southern Illinois University development. We are excited
Edwardsville (SIUE) Crescent to start with such a refreshing
Colony on November 8, 2019. group of men and look forward
Just 25 miles from St. Louis, to the day when the Delts are
SIUE is built on the foundation the recognized standard for
of academic preparation leadership on campus,” said
guiding students to thrive in CEO Jack Kreman. The Iota Chi Chapter Gray (Illinois Institute of
the global marketplace. The Senior Chapter Leadership at Lindenwood University Technology, 1991), Assistant
colony’s cumulative GPA Consultant Cody Nulph provided the Ritual team Advisor for Risk Prevention
places it first among the six (University of South Florida, to perform the induction Larry Guessfeld (Lindenwood
other interfraternity council 2018) led chapter leadership ceremony at Morris University University, 2017) and
member fraternities on the consultants Garrett Swallow Center in Edwardsville. The Assistant Advisor for
campus with an undergraduate (Chapman University, 2019) colony’s volunteer advisory Recruitment and New Member
student population of more and Michael Nguyen (Case team attended the ceremony Education Hunter Robinson
than 11,500. Western Reserve University, including Colony Advisor Matt (Southeastern Louisiana
“Delta Tau Delta is excited 2019) in establishing the Greaves (Westminster College, University, 2013). Δ
to be at SIUE. It is an up colony at Edwardsville. 2010), Assistant Advisor Jason
Delt Returns to University of for an installation,” said CEO
Jack Kreman.
Frank Hull (University of
Louisiana at Lafayette,
Louisiana at Lafayette with Chapter Leadership
Consultant Nick Pidgeon
1971), Colony Assistant
Financial Advisor Bo Billeaud
Epsilon Psi Crescent Colony (University of South Florida,
2019) led the expansion team
(University of Louisiana at
Lafayette, 1979), Colony
of Brooks Rahaim (University Assistant Alumni Advisor
of Southern Mississippi, 2019), Jacques Walker (University
Erik Sink (Lafayette College, of Louisiana at Lafayette,
2019) and Heath Schintler 1984), and Epsilon Phi Chapter
(University of Iowa, 2019). Advisor Gene Pregeant,
The Epsilon Phi Chapter (Southeastern Louisiana
at Southeastern Louisiana University, 1980).
University provided the Ritual Additional members of the
team to perform the induction colony’s volunteer advisory
ceremony. The colony joins team include Assistant Advisor
Delta Tau Delta welcomed “We have been gone for too eight fraternities on the for New Member Education
36 founding fathers to the long from Lafayette. Seeing campus of more than 17,000 and Risk Prevention Chase
Epsilon Psi Crescent Colony the Epsilon Psi Chapter return students. Wilson (University of Southern
on November 8, 2019. First makes both Delta Tau Delta Ceremony attendees Mississippi, 2014), Assistant
chartered in 1969 when the and the state of Louisiana included Southern Division Advisor for Recruitment
University of Louisiana at better. Seeing the alumni of President Mark Nichols Bruce Brown (University of
Lafayette was known as the the chapter reengage is truly (Kansas State University, Southern Mississippi, 2011)
University of Southwestern gratifying. The project stands 1991) Colony Advisor James and Division Vice President
Louisiana, the Epsilon Psi as an enduring reminder that McLaurin (University of Charles “Tiger” Edwards
Chapter has not been active for we are a lifelong organization. Louisiana at Lafayette, 1983), (Southeastern Louisiana
more than 30 years. I look forward to visiting soon Colony Assistant Advisor University, 1973). Δ
WINTER 2020 | 7
FRATERNITY HEADLINES
Spring Growth Update
Delta Tau Delta will continue to grow through the spring with the establishment of two
colonies as the Fraternity returns to Northern Arizona University and Illinois State
University.
Northern Arizona University Illinois State University
Theta Omega Crescent Colony Theta Phi Crescent Colony
The Fraternity will work to establish the Located in Normal, Ill., and founded in
Theta Omega Crescent Colony at Northern 1857 Illinois State University is the oldest
Arizona University where the chapter was public university in Illinois. The diverse
originally installed in 2000. Northern Arizona community of scholars joins a commitment
University (NAU) in Flagstaff is built on a to fostering a small-college atmosphere
student-first foundation where the traditions with large-university opportunities. With
and values of the past inform innovations to an undergraduate population of more than
shape the future. In the midst of the largest 18,000, the university welcomed its largest
ponderosa pine forest in the world, NAU offers freshmen class in 33 years in the fall of 2019
95 degree programs for more than 25,000 and boasts a graduation rate well above
undergraduates. After a four-year absence, the national average. Originally founded on
Delta Tau Delta will join 14 IFC chapters in the campus in 1998, Delta Tau Delta returns to
fraternity and sorority community. join 15 IFC chapters.
Recruiting begins January 27, 2020 Recruiting begins January 27, 2020
RE-ESTABLISHING CLOSED CHAPTERS
Delta Tau Delta values the opportunity to re-establish chapters. A few things alumni can do to help ensure the successful
return of a chapter in the future include:
• Operate under the mindset your chapter will reopen and you need to be prepared when it does.
• Focus on alumni relations by maintaining communication and connections with chapter brothers.
• Contact Director of Volunteers Bentley Anderson at bentley.anderson@delts.org to let him know of your willingness to
volunteer should there be an opportunity to establish a colony at your alma mater.
• Contact your university’s Fraternity and Sorority Life office, build a relationship and learn whether the campus will open for
expansion. If you would like to learn more, contact Director of Growth Adam Abbott at adam.abbott@delts.org.
8 | WINTER 2020FRATERNITY HEADLINES
JDRF, the leading ROTC detachment at beverage to ice cold in
global organization the University of South 30 seconds.
funding type 1 diabetes Florida introduced Elms
research. Garrett to the Fraternity. Mighty Oaks
Baugus (University Mentor
of Texas at Arlington When he left military
Crescent Colony, life, Craig Cox
2020) and Claudio (Sam Houston State
Franc (Southeastern University, 2019)
Louisiana University, thought a chapter of his
2019) represented the life was fully closed, but
Fraternity supporting Delta Tau Delta gives
JDRF’s advocacy him the opportunity use
efforts and the mission his experiences to help
falling from his eyes.
Brotherly Love I asked, ‘Christopher,
of improving lives others. Cox arrived on
Last year Josh Ballard’s by accelerating life- the Sam Houston State
why are you crying?’
(Southeastern Louisiana changing breakthroughs University campus
and he said, ‘Well,
University, 2021) older to cure, prevent and as an Army veteran
because I only had two
brother Christopher, treat T1D and its who had attended a
complications. community college
and another university.
Delt Takes Off He has taken a mentor
from Air Force Ted Howell Named role within his chapter,
Academy Academic All- focusing on academics
Graduation American and time management.
ceremonies at the Ted Howell (Illinois He also makes a
United States Air Force Institute of Technology, significant commitment
Academy included 2021) was named to to volunteer service
one Delt in 2019. the second team of the through the Mighty
The graduate, Caleb Google Cloud Academic Oaks Foundation,
Elms (University of All-America team a nonprofit veteran
South Florida, 2019), in 2019. As Illinois organization
joined the Fraternity Tech’s primary first committed to serving
when he participated baseman, Howell led the brokenhearted by
who has Down in an ROTC exchange the team with eight providing intensive
brothers and now, I have
syndrome, enrolled program. Each year six home runs, while also peer-based discipleship
all of you.’”
in a campus program Air Force Academy driving in 28 runs. He through a series of
providing an inclusive cadets trade places with sported a .295 batting programs, outpost
college experience counterparts at a civilian average, .364 on-base meetings and speaking
for young adults with institution who are percentage and .600 events.
Two Delta Tau Delta
intellectual disabilities. enrolled in an Air Force slugging percentage.
representatives joined
Epsilon Phi Chapter ROTC detachment. “I Howell earned a
more than 160 youth
welcomed Christopher was chosen to swap perfect 4.0 GPA while
delegates from all 50
as an honorary member places with a cadet pursuing degrees
states, and six countries
of the chapter and at the USF AFROTC in mechanical and Find more Delt Stories
in the nation’s capital
during the Rite of Iris Det 158 where I could aerospace engineering. at delts.org/delt-
in July for the JDRF
ceremony, Josh stood by learn more about our He is as a lab assistant stories and watch your
Children’s Congress,
the candle representing sister commissioning and a Gamma Beta email inbox for “The
a bi-annual event to Digest.”
brotherly love, the last source as well as Chapter officer. Howell
urge continued research
in the ceremony. “I was share experiences has worked on projects
funding for type 1 More Fraternity
right behind Christopher from my own journey including a portable
diabetes (T1D). The headlines you may
the whole time, so at the at a Federal Military nebulizer for delivering not see in the news
delegates, all living
end, he turned around Academy,” said Elms. asthma medication, in featuring campus life,
with T1D—ages four
and he ran into my Brothers from Epsilon addition to designing lifetime achievements
to 17— traveled to
arms, gave me a big ol’ Pi Chapter who are a product that chills and leadership at
Washington to represent Myfraternitylife.org.
hug and tears started enrolled in the Air Force a room-temperature
WINTER 2020 | 9FRATERNITY HEADLINES
New Shelter Dedication at
the University of Missouri representing several the chapter’s first shelter with
Gamma Kappa Chapter at years. Chartered in 1905, the
the University of Missouri chapter established its first generations moved forward Anderson’s father William
unveiled a new shelter in shelter in 1921. In 1966, the conducting a feasibility B. Anderson (University
the fall of 2019. The 506 E. chapter welcomed a newly study in partnership with of Missouri, 1949) and his
Rollins facility in Columbia constructed Delt shelter that Pennington & Company, a uncle John L. Anderson
boasts a modern design with met the needs of nearly 2,000 recognized leader in fraternity (University of Missouri,
new safety features and a chapter members over the next and sorority fundraising, to 1951). A member of the
more functional use of space 50 years. manage a campaign aimed at Fraternity’s Distinguished
for today’s students with the Nine years ago, as the replacing the existing shelter. Service Chapter, Acuff’s
look, feel and spirit of a Delt need for maintenance and House Corporation expertise in land development,
shelter. The dedication was the updates grew, the house President Breck Anderson construction and real estate
culmination of a the labor of corporation began discussing (University of Missouri, was instrumental in building
a volunteer team and support options with the existing 1980), a third-generation Delt, the chapter’s second facility
garnered across generations of shelter. Ultimately, it found led a deeply committed team in 1966.
chapter members. it to be more cost-effective with all the right expertise. The expansive team
The Gamma Kappa Chapter to build a new shelter than to Another key player was came with a wide range of
has existed at the University renovate the structure from Phil Acuff (University of expertise including house
of Missouri for more than 114 1966. A building committee Missouri, 1953), who lived in corporation board members,
10 | WINTER 2020FRATERNITY HEADLINES
Delt alumni, friends of the
Fraternity like Delt fathers,
House Director James Luety,
and contractor Andy Homoly.
House Corporation treasurer
Steve Gurwell (University of
Missouri, 1973) developed
and managed a financials,
Brad Grimes (University
of Missouri, 2010) brought
experience as a civil engineer
and Ryan Duggan (University
of Missouri, 2007) brought his
background in construction to
serve as a consultant.
“We just had the right
people,” said Anderson. “And
that’s what it takes—making
sure that you look at the pool
of folks you can pull from and
bring the right people together.
You need a great attorney, you
need a great contractor, you
need a great architect and then
you need a board of people
who are interested.”
Laura Skaer (University of
Missouri, 1970), who served
as chapter president in 1969,
was instrumental in building The lodge-inspired dining area at the Gamma Kappa Shelter includes the Delta Tau Delta coat of arms in a stained glass
support among alumni from window at the end of the room. The common areas continue the lodge style with leather and stone, and wood beams in the
the late 1960s and early 1970s foyer. Even the wrought iron rail on the porch boasts the Delt letters.
and planning the dedication
weekend. The advising team not something that we could in the dining area. The room for outstanding service to a
of John Dean (Syracuse previously do,” said Western numbers have a Delt badge house corporation.
University, 1959) and Jim Plains Division President shape, the letters appear in “My reward was just
Meyer (DePauw University, Chris Wisbrock (University the upper eaves and above the knowing that Delts were going
1986) engaged graduates of the of Missouri, 1997). “The front door, and the basement is to be able to live there for
last two decades and worked other shelter had a couple painted purple and gold. Every 100 years or more,” Anderson
diligently with undergraduates of refreshes, but from a guts detail came together and Delt said. “Working with the board,
to develop the chapter’s perspective, it was getting undergraduates moved into the reconnecting with alumni
operating structure, academic to the point where we had shelter on time in August. and seeing friends reunited
focus and evolving culture. plumbing and electrical With more than a decade of made the experience special.
With input from the problems and the physical service as house corporation Everybody had the same
board and undergraduates, plant needed an upgrade. Now president Anderson was excitement about building a
the architects developed a it’s safer, it’s nicer, it’s newer instrumental in bringing new house. The enthusiasm of
shelter with more effective and the rooms are bigger,” everyone together and initially all the memories and the stories
use of space for studying and Wisbrock said. “We also have leading the house corporation and being a Delt in Columbia
meeting room functionality. two handicapped-accessible to pursue the new shelter centered around the shelter.
“The chapter has seen a spike rooms on the first level.” according to Wisbrock. As People had a warm feeling and
in growth. There are about The Delt brand stands out alumni, undergraduates and were interested in participating
170 members, but we can in the shelter with the letters friends of the Fraternity in building a new one that
fit 90 of them in the dining “Delta Tau Delta” featured in gathered to dedicate the new would last for 100 years or
room now and we can have wrought iron at the front of shelter in October, Anderson more and allow a continuation
everybody at a chapter meeting the house and a stained-glass was surprised with the John W. of that with new Delts,” said
in the basement, which was window with a coat of arms Nichols Bridge Builder Award Anderson. Δ
WINTER 2020 | 11FRATERNITY HEADLINES
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA
100 Years of Delta Xi
L-R: Delta Xi House Corporation Director Tom Hanson (University of North Dakota, 1970), International President Steve Paquette (Syracuse University, 1977),
Chapter Advisor Ian Godfrey (North Dakota State University, 2014) and Blake Loomis (University of North Dakota, 2023).
Two hundred eighty Delts who were mostly World three years during World War first chapter educational
assembled at the Alerus War I veterans, the Beta II when all the members were foundation, the ΔΤΔ
Convention Center in Grand Chi Fraternity formed at the called to military duty and Educational Foundation of
Forks, N.D., to toast 100 years University of North Dakota the chapter house was used as North Dakota. Over 40 years,
of their beloved fraternity on with the express purpose military barracks as were all the Foundation raised over
November 16, 2019. Landon of petitioning a national fraternity houses at UND. The $2.3 million from more than
Bahl (University of North fraternity for membership. chapter has since produced five 430 alumni—this was after
Dakota, 2016) served as emcee After several unsuccessful Alumni Achievement Award alumni raised funds to build a
reminding the men throughout petition attempts, then Chapter recipients including Harold new chapter house in 1979.
the banquet, “Brotherhood President Edward Hallenberg W. Bangert (1927), Merlin In its history, Delta Xi
brought us together and (University of North Dakota, Dewing (1956), Robert Feidler Chapter has earned the
Brotherhood keeps us 1936), received the call the (1971), Robert K. Muhs, Jr Court of Honor Award 14
together.” Centennial Chair, men had been waiting for— (1977), Norman C. Skalicky times for superior chapter
Joseph McGrath (University of they would become Delts. On (1955). Prior to 2019, five performance and operation
North Dakota, 2019) was the November 22, 1935, the Beta alumni from the chapter had and the Hugh Shields Award
Centennial Fellow organizing Chi Fraternity became the been cited to the Distinguished for Chapter Excellence six
the event. Brotherhood Delta Xi Chapter of Delta Tau Service Chapter including times. More than 90 percent
sustains the Fraternity and Delta in the midst of the Great George Aaron Allen (1936), of the initiated members of the
indeed has sustained an Depression. Merritt Lee Welch (1930), chapter graduate from UND, a
enduring legacy of Deltism One hundred years later, Ordean L. Dahl (1934), retention and graduation rate
at the University of North more than 1,200 men have Thomas P. Hanson (1970) and 35 percent higher than general
Dakota. taken the Oath of a Delt and Richard A. Schmidt (1976). UND enrollment.
First organized in 1919 by joined the Delta Xi Chapter. In 1978, North Dakota Highlighting the centennial
men who declared themselves The chapter has been in Delt alumni made fraternity celebration was a warm
the “naughty nine,” and constant operation except for history by forming the nation’s welcome from Dr. Dennis
12 | WINTER 2020FRATERNITY HEADLINES
Representing more
than 120 years of
collective volunteer
experience, University
of North Dakota
alumni Joel Medd,
Kent McGregor and
Ken Johnson were
honored with the John
W. Nichols Bridge
Builder Award for
outstanding service
to the establishment,
development or
enhancement of a
house corporation.
Elbert, co-chairman of Bob Muhs and International scenes in the house corporation, experience receiving the
the university presidential President Steve Paquette the university and the local Fraternity’s highest honor
search committee. Dr. Elbert (Syracuse University, 1977) community. Fellow DSC for housing volunteers. Joel
confirmed the commitment of provided keynote addresses. recipients Tom Hanson and Medd (University of North
the university to fraternity life Paquette spoke to the need of Richard Schmidt were present. Dakota, 1969), Kent McGregor
in both in the past and in the Delta Tau Delta and similar Northern Division President (University of North Dakota,
future. Following an invocation organizations in the lives of Jeff Pelletier (Ohio State 1969) and Ken Johnson
from Bob Feidler (University young men. University, 1994) had the honor (University of North Dakota,
of North Dakota, 1971), Closing the evening, to present an unprecedented 1970) shared the spotlight and
members and guests dined on Paquette cited the sixth Delta three John W. Nichols Bridge received due recognition. All
the celebratory meal. Xi Chapter alumnus to the Builder Awards recognizing three were in the same pledge
Chapter Treasurer Jared Distinguished Service Chapter, excellence in house corporation class, were initiated together
Fowler (University of North Bruce Gjovig (University of volunteers. These three men in the fall of 1966 and have
Dakota, 2021), Alumni North Dakota, 1974). Gjovig represent more than 120 served as house corporation
Achievement Award recipient has served as a force behind the years of collective advising officers since 1980. Δ
BRUCE GJOVIG CITED TO DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CHAPTER
Since 1930, the Fraternity has presented only 455 Distinguished Service Chapter
(DSC) citations—Delta Tau Delta’s highest service honor recognizing men who
have contributed significantly to the Fraternity. Bruce Gjovig (University of North
Dakota, 1974) became the most recent alumnus cited during Delta Xi Chapter’s
100th anniversary celebration on Nov. 16, 2019. Gjovig has truly given back to
those who follow as a dedicated volunteer for more than 45 years. In his tenure
as chairman of the Delta Xi Education Foundation, Gjovig has made an impact on
nearly every initiated Delt at Delta Xi either by working with the alumni to create a
legacy of giving, or in the presentation of a scholarship to an undergraduate. Gjovig
consistently contributes to chapter meetings coaching undergraduate members
on the skills needed for success in the classroom and after graduation. His gifts
of time, talent and treasure to Delta Tau Delta has helped develop the leadership
skills of undergraduates over the past four decades.
WINTER 2020 | 13FRATERNITY HEADLINES
Delta Omicron College in April 2019.
Festivities kicked off with a
and reflections from Rev. Jack
Ogden (1940), a founding
and their guests as well as 42
Delt undergraduates who were
reception at the Delt Shelter member of the Delta Omicron able to attend free of charge due
Chapter’s 80th honoring David Egner (1984) Chapter. to generous donations of many
who earned a Westminster A silent auction raised funds Delta Omicron alumni and
Anniversary at College Alumni Achievement
Award, one of the highest
both for JDRF and chapter
leadership scholarships. The
friends.
Madhav Reddy (Westminster
Westminster honors from Westminster
College. The evening
auction included a variety of
items such as sports ticket
College 2007) chaired the event
with assistance from his wife,
College culminated with a dinner and
celebration featuring live
packages, Delt memorabilia,
and a painting of the Delta
Sarah; Chapter Advisor Danny
Jackson (2004) and his wife,
music and a speech by Western Omicron Shelter signed by Kristen; House Corporation
Delta Omicron Chapter hosted Plains Division President every Delt at the anniversary Board member Matthew
its 80th anniversary celebration Chris Wisbrock (University of celebration. Greaves (2010) and Westminster
during the annual Alumni Missouri, 1997). Tom Shields Total event attendance was College Director of Alumni
Weekend at Westminster (1952) shared good wishes 172 including 130 Delt alumni Engagement Sarah Munns. Δ
CHAPTER CELEBRATES 70 YEARS AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
The Oklahoma State University Delta Chi campus. Former Western Plains Division
Chapter celebrated its 70th anniversary in President Dan Loving (1972) hosted the
May 2019. Chartered as a crescent colony in banquet on Saturday evening.
1948 and installed in 1949, the chapter has Following the meal, an announcement
initiated nearly 1,500 men. Approximately was made to kick off the Pledge Delt Again
100 gathered to celebrate the anniversary fundraising campaign to fund the building
and reconnect. of a new Delt shelter. Stephen Reel (1970),
“It was a great time to see many great the campaign leader, detailed building
friends and share life’s experiences and we In May 2019, alumni gathered to celebrate Delta design, timing and funding. Excitement was
Chi Chapter’s 70th Anniversary and to kick off the
were honored to have members from every Pledge Delt Again fundraising campaign to fund the evident about plans to replace the existing
era, most notable was Duane Pugh (1952), building of a new Delt shelter. shelter built in 1962. By fall 2019, the
age 90, who is among the oldest members campaign had commitments of more than
of the chapter,” said Chip Woodward 50 participants followed by an Oklahoma $4.5 million of the total estimated cost of
(1968). State vs. Baylor baseball game tailgate. $5.5 million. An announcement is near to
The anniversary celebration began with Saturday’s agenda was lunch at the Delta celebrate the “Delt Demolition Day” and
a golf tournament on Friday with about Chi Shelter followed by tours of the begin the construction in 2020. Δ
14 | WINTER 2020FRATERNITY HEADLINES
job while helping others do theirs and who
never seeks fame and recognition. His style
and body of work speak to the essence of
the Gold Medal–others have been helped
or guided to improve what they do because
of Jim.”
Jim became Delta Tau Delta’s eighth
executive director in 2001 after a 25-
year career in sports writing. He was
responsible for launching the Fraternity’s
first member education initiative in 2008
and oversaw unprecedented organizational
growth. By the time Jim retired in 2018,
the Fraternity had grown from 6,400
undergraduate members in 2001 to more
than 10,000 in 2017.
He invested innumerable hours into
projects and committees for the North
American Interfraternity Conference,
Fraternal Information and Programming
Group, Fraternal Risk Management Trust
and the Purdue Fraternity and Sorority
Alumni Advisory Council. Δ
Fiftieth International President Alan Brackett (Tulane University, 1982) and Executive Vice President Emeritus
Jim Russell.
RUSSELL HONORED WITH GOLD MEDAL
In August 2019, the North American members for the first time (2016).
Interfraternity Conference honored Jim • Achieved its first aggregate 3.0 grade
Russell (Purdue University, 1975) with the point average in history (2010).
coveted NIC Gold Medal. The presentation • Entered its partnership with JDRF
of the NIC Gold Medal dates back more (2012) which by fall 2019 had raised
than 70 years, making it one of the oldest almost $1.7 million.
interfraternal traditions. The Gold Medal SEVEN GOLD MEDAL DELTS
is the highest honor the Conference can In its announcement, the NIC shared the In its history, the NIC previously
bestow and recognizes lifelong service to following: presented the Gold Medal to six Delt
the interfraternal community and/or the A gifted writer and historian, Jim alumni. No other Fraternity has received
NIC. Russell applied his communication the award more than five times. As the
Russell served the Fraternity as executive skills to the betterment of the fraternal seventh Delt honored with the Gold
vice president for nearly 17 years, until his movement in channels no other executive Medal, Russell will be memorialized in
retirement in 2018. During Russell’s tenure the company of great Delts. Previous
has navigated. A vigorous champion of
recipients include Norval B. Stephens
the Fraternity: the fraternity/sorority movement, Jim is (DePauw University, 1951) who was
• In partnership with the Delta Tau known for genuine authenticity, dedicated honored in 2015 and five Delts now in
Delta Educational Foundation, professionalism and a deep determination the Chapter Eternal, including in 1940—
established a permanent headquarters to serve. Alvan C. Duerr (Kenyon College/Williams
in Fishers, Ind. (2002). “What distinguishes Jim Russell from College, 1893); in 1952—Henry B.
• Marked its 150th birthday (2008) with the many other interfraternal leaders is his Wriston (Wesleyan University, 1911); in
a two-year celebration of events. 1965—Tom C. Clark (University of Texas,
willingness to lead from the back as well as
1922); in 1966—Joel W. Reynolds (Tufts
• Revamped the Fraternity education from the front,” one nominator said. “He University, 1923) and in 1991—Edwin L.
and leadership programming. has always been a ‘glue guy,’ the person Heminger (Ohio Wesleyan University,
• Reached 10,000 undergraduate who holds the team together, who does his 1948).
WINTER 2020 | 15FRATERNITY HEADLINES 16 | WINTER 2020
FRATERNITY HEADLINES
KARNEA DELEGATES, LEGISLATION
AND RECOMMENDATIONS
As we prepare for the 2020 Karnea in Phoenix, it is time to proceed with the election of delegates and proposals
for changes to the Constitution and Bylaws and Ritual as well as the Fraternity’s nominations and election
process for Arch Chapter service.
ELECTION OF DELEGATES
1. Elect delegates at chapter meeting.
2. Register as a delegate at delts.org.
3. Attend business sessions at Karnea.
LEGISLATION
Information regarding the legislative process and applicable forms including the current Constitution and
Bylaws can be found at delts.org. Log in through myDelt and navigate to the Resource Center.
ARCH CHAPTER NOMINATIONS RECOMMENDATION
The Fraternity is now accepting recommendations for Arch Chapter service. To be eligible for service, you
must be an alumnus in good standing and be recommended consistent with the Arch Chapter election process.
Recommendations must be received no later than April 1, 2020.
An explanation of the nomination process is available at delts.org along with a summary of board of director
responsibilities and a recommendation form. Go to Delts.org and click on MyDelt Login then navigate to the
Resource Center for details.
WINTER 2020 | 17FRATERNITY HEADLINES
International Director of Member Development Ashley Wollam (center) said coaching means developing someone’s capacity to win despite any circumstance or
barrier. Given the increasingly complicated world our students live in and the increasingly complex problems they face, it is imperative that the Fraternity—and our
volunteers—step into our role as coaches so we can help unleash the potential in our members to live lives of excellence.
Volunteer Coaching Summit Debuts
Throughout the development
of the Fraternity’s strategic
Coaching Summit (VCS) held
in Columbus, Ohio. Nearly
backbone of our Fraternity,
followed by the President’s
academic, social and political
environment—and that’s
plan, it became clear volunteers 100 Fraternity volunteers Excellence Institute, to show just at school, according
wanted an impactful training came together to learn and undergraduate brothers the to International Director
program useful to all levels share ideas while confirming best way to do their job. The of Member Development,
of leadership, all depths of their commitment to guiding finale is the division conference Ashley Wollam (Marietta
experience and valuable on others for the betterment of where advisors, presidents and College, 2008). When they
all campuses. Now more than the Fraternity. Through a their executive boards work graduate, they are thrust into
ever, young men need strong series of engaging exercises, together as one to create the professions in which they
mentors. We believe Delta Tau revealing assessments, and optimal team for success. “It is must tackle a wide array of
Delta is uniquely poised to help real-time coaching, volunteers my fervent hope that the result ever-changing problems. The
our undergraduate brothers developed critical skills for will be better recruitment, Fraternity and its university
grow and develop the capacity helping students to unleash fewer risk management partners can’t possibly prepare
to solve bigger and more their potential in the chapters, concerns and the best possible students with the “answer” to
complex challenges by proper on their campuses, and undergraduate experience for every problem they may face.
mentoring. Our secret is and ultimately, in their careers and our young leaders and the men “One of the most powerful
always has been, coaching. communities. they lead,” Paquette said. ways the Fraternity—and
In August 2019, a first International President Steve Today’s undergraduates our volunteers—can equip
phase of the plan came to Paquette said the vision of VCS operate in an increasingly our students is by developing
fruition with the Volunteer is to help the men who are the complex and ambiguous their capacity to solve bigger
18 | WINTER 2020FRATERNITY HEADLINES
and more complex challenges,” said Wollam. “We do this not by 2002) who is a division vice president for Epsilon Phi Chapter
giving them advice or making the problems easier to solve, but at Southeastern Louisiana University. He was surprised by the
by becoming their coaches: setting high expectations, exploring focus extended to how to handle situations at work, home and
pathways available to them and helping them to learn along the with Fraternity members. “The commitment from Delta Tau Delta
journey. It is so important that the Fraternity, and our volunteers, investing in our volunteers is critical, and I felt appreciated by
hone our coaching skillset so we can inspire maturity in our attending. The content was not what I expected, but it was much
members and better equip them to learn and live their own truth.” better! I expected more relevant training on the Fraternity and our
Howard Harcha (Ohio State University, 2012) found the policies and practices. I did not expect to spend more time thinking
Volunteer Coaching Summit to be valuable about how I can better handle situations at
in his role as chapter advisor to the Beta Phi VOLUNTEER COACHING SUMMIT work, home and with our members.
Chapter at Ohio State and in his career as • 96.67% Strongly Agree or Agree “This event was different in the focus on
an attorney. “My primary takeaway is being that the VCS fulfilled their goals the volunteer and not on the organization.
present and patient in finding solutions is the and expectations. When we make our volunteers stronger,
key to being a great mentor,” said Harcha. • 100% agree they can be a more we are then making our organization
“Being present shows you care. As volunteers effective leader due to attending stronger,” said Ranatza. “I have been
we have a lot of time constraints, whether VCS. able to implement some of the strategies
it’s our families, work or other organizations. • All participants indicated at least and lessons learned at the training. Most
Sometimes when we were given problems, 50% of the content would apply to importantly, my coach and I still meet to
we like to just answer based on our their role in the Fraternity. discuss our lives and make suggestions for
experiences. The coaching skills introduced • “Listening,” “Coaching,” and each other. I reference my personal evaluation
“Asking Questions” are common
at this summit allow me to not only be patient as I am striving for excellence in my personal
responses to concepts volunteers
but also allow the undergraduate men to work life—this has been an amazing outcome.”
intend to utilize immediately.
toward an answer on their own.” Harcha has The feedback on the first-ever Volunteer
applied these same skills working with a Coaching Summit was exceedingly positive.
young attorney whom he mentors. “I think this speaks to the need our volunteers feel for engaging
Harcha also noted the value of cutting edge coaching insight for our undergraduates in a substantively different way, exchanging
Fraternity volunteers. “It reminds us that in our own little silos of best practices with each other, and honing their skills to be the
our own chapters, we are a part of the national organization and best leaders they can be,” said Director of Volunteers Bentley
we can utilize and leverage those talents for the betterment of the Anderson.
Fraternity,” Harcha said. To learn more about the Volunteer Coaching Summit planned
The opportunity for growth and development through VCS for 2021, contact Director of Volunteers Bentley Anderson, at
appealed to Anthony Ranatza (Southeastern Louisiana University, bentley.anderson@delts.org or 317-284-0203. Δ
A significant
portion of
the Volunteer
Coaching
Summit and
PresX is
funded by the
generosity
of the DELT
FOUNDATION.
Forrest“Frosty”
Krummel (Butler
University,
1975) and Evan
Finkelstein
(Carnegie Mellon
University, 2014)
talking during
a experiential
coaching session.
WINTER 2020 | 19FRATERNITY HEADLINES
ARCH CHAPTER ADOPTS WHAT WE BELIEVE
COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH
Mental, emotional, social and physical
wellness is essential to the overall sense of
wellbeing that is prerequisite to leading a life
& WELLNESS PHILOSOPHY
of excellence. Each of these dimensions are
interrelated and interdependent; compromised
physical wellness can potentially undermine
one’s mental, emotional or social wellness;
while conversely, exercise and overall physical
wellness can contribute positively to the other
dimensions of wellness. Our sense of wellness
in each dimension is comprised of factors
both in (e.g., daily habits, regimens, practices)
and out of our control (e.g. social pressures,
prejudices, mental health, etc.)
Men are especially vulnerable to mental,
emotional, social and physical detractors
during periods of volatility, uncertainty,
complexity or ambiguity. Life transitions (such
as the transition to collegiate life or transition
out of school) are a prime example of these—
Over the course of the last four years and based on a charge from the when men are especially susceptible to stress,
2018 St. Louis Karnea, it has become clear health and wellness topics anxiety and social pressures. What’s more,
are a priority for the undergraduates we serve. Attention to health modern society presents an unprecedented
and wellness presents as new territory for the Fraternity, and how the multitude of competing demands, pressures
Fraternity can best address these topics in ways that would resonate and environments which incentivize behaviors
most strongly with our members. This has been especially unclear in a that lead to poor wellbeing. To lead lives of
campus environment that seems saturated with messaging, services, excellence, our members will need to create
and programs related to health and wellness, ultimately raising the and adopt personal strategies to develop and
question, “what can our Fraternity uniquely do (and do best) in service of sustain a sense of positive wellbeing.
our members’ health and wellness?”
Wellness and wellbeing exist at the
Over the course of the last 10 months, the Health and Wellness
confluence of many complex and complicated
Committee wrestled with these and related questions. The Committee’s
topics with few certain or simple solutions.
journey included an exploration of the campus landscape in which
While the negative impacts which come
our students live, an assessment of the students themselves, the
downstream of poor wellness or wellbeing
development of personas so we could understand what they feel they
are well-documented in the news, science
need and want, and an evaluation of the opportunity gap that exists
often provides murky—and sometimes
between and among these things. The byproduct of months of research
contradictory-guidance for addressing these
and dialogue came before the Arch Chapter in July 2019.
topics. Comparatively, few answers are known
The Health and Wellness question, which has increasingly captured
for certain or can be applied globally; there are
our organizational attention over the last four years, now demands our
few “simple” solutions.
membership seriously considers and resolve to state what we believe.
Work remains. In the fall, Delta Tau Delta took its first steps toward The choices we make define our character;
a comprehensive health and wellness strategy. We need the feedback our character defines us as men. We respect
of our members. To meet the needs of our students, we need to as paramount the right of each man to
understand their needs. We plan to deploy, test and redeploy. Our make choices about how to conduct his life.
members deserve the best products and services. The Fraternity will It is therefore imperative to ensure those
deliver. decisions are informed with the most relevant
information, the latest insight (scientific or
THE FIRST INITIATIVE otherwise) and/or best practice.
Launched in fall 2019, Delt’s ULifline, a digital portal, demonstrates our
commitment to greater mental health awareness, accurate education Personal adversity is not inherently bad and
and appropriate treatment resources. Ulifeline is tangible evidence can lead to periods of pronounced personal
of our goal to provide mental health education and awareness as growth. We view as essential the need to
well as access to mental health crisis resources 24 hours a day. By provide support, connection and understanding
knowing what tools and resources are available, we can act quickly and during periods of personal adversity so that
confidently when we recognize a brother in need. ULifeline offers us the men may navigate these periods in safe and
tools to do something and to seek to make every day another great day supportive environments.
to be a Delt.
20 | WINTER 2020You can also read
