Chapter News - Cross and Crescent

Cross & Crescent 

a Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity publication 

3 

20 

23 

Chapter News 

Chapter news, alumni news, 

and report of death 

History 

The Cole Ritual: Its Debt to 

the Grange 

Fraternity News 

Seven brothers join 

International Headquarters 

as ELCs 

CREDITS 

Publisher: Bill Farkas 

Editor: Tad Lichtenauer 

Assistant Editor: Chris Barrick 

Illustrator: Jeff Reisdorfer 

Thomas Roberts 

Photographer: Walt Moser 

Assignment Editor: Jon Williamson 

Historian: Mike Raymond 

Contributing Editors: 

Jono Hren 

Bob McLaughlin 

George Spasyk 

www.crossandcrescent.com 

9 

‘I OWE LAMBDA CHI EVERYTHING’ 

Chairman, President, and CEO Kevin Vasquez leads Butler 

Schein Animal Health, the world’s largest veterinary 

distribution company. A graduate of Western Carolina, he 

credits the Fraternity with making him the man he is today. 

By Chris Barrick (Butler) 

12 

ORDER OF ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT 

Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received the Order 

of Achievement on April 24, 2010, during a banquet held 

in his honor the University of North Dakota. 

By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison) 

14 

STLCOP’S BRIGHT FUTURE 

Pi-Lambda at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy was 

colonized in 2004 and was installed in 2005. 

By Jon Williamson (Maryland) 

16 

SAN DIEGO’S SECRET FOR SUCCESS 

The Delta-Kappa chapter at the University of San Diego 

is the largest fraternity on the campus, carries a 3.19 GPA, 

and earned the Dean’s Trophy four of the past nine years 


18 

EPSILON-DELTA’S MISFORTUNE 

After winning the Grand High Alpha Award in 1998, the 

Montana State chapter voluntarily surrendered its charter 

just eight short years later. 


2 

Cross & Crescent June 2010 

CONTRIBUTIONS 

Content for consideration should be submitted 

by the 20th of the month. 

Lambda Chi Alpha 

8741 Founders Rd. 

Indianapolis, IN 46268-1338 

(317) 872-8000 

editor@lambdachi.org 

www.lambdachi.org 

www.crossandcrescent.com

Chapter News 


CHAPTER NEWS 

Chapter news, alumni news, and reports of death 

Angelo State (Beta-Alpha) 

White Rose was held at the Patio in San Angelo, TX. Before 

the formal, the alumni and actives of Beta-Alpha competed 

in a friendly match of softball, the second year in which the 

game was held. Amidst friendly trash talking and gloating, the 

brothers, active and alumni alike, came together and had a great 

time, with the actives turning down their game and allowing 

the alumni to win. Former High Alpha, Rusty Taylor, BAZ 

577, graduated on May 15 from Angelo State University. 

Auburn (Omega) 

Finals are over now and its starting to quiet down around the 

Lambda Chi Omega Zeta house. After several very successful 

philanthropies this past semester we are currently in the 

process of planning our major fall events. As of now we have a 

haunted house planned for Halloween for the underprivileged 

children with Project Uplift. We also have a campus-wide 

Blood Drive scheduled. We are also, for the first time ever 

at Omega Zeta, currently trying to get the Watermelon Bust 

scheduled for the fall. Should be a very busy semester. 

Baldwin-Wallace (Kappa-Phi) 

Thomas A. Kazee (1973) was named the new 23rd president 

of the University of Evansville. He was elected by the Board 

of Trustees on April 9, 2010. He is currently the provost and 

executive vice president of Furman University in Greenville, 

South Carolina. Prior to that he served four years as dean 

of the college at the University of the South (Sewanee), 

and for 18 years as a faculty member (the last 10 as chair) 

at Davidson College’s Department of Political Science. 

Boston (Alpha) 

For the second consecutive year, the chapter received more 

awards than any other fraternity or sorority on campus 

during the Greek Week competition. This year’s awards 

included: Excellence in Recruitment, Best Relationship 

with the University, Excellence in Academics, and Brother 

Blake Triplett brought home President of the Year. 

Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon) 

Ten chapter members participated in the university’s Relay For 

Life, raising more than $1,330 for the American Cancer Society. 

3 

California Poly (Phi-Sigma) 

During the weekend of April 23-24, 2010, 10 chapter brothers 

participated in the Southern California Ragnar Relay Race, 

raising $1,000 for the American Red Cross. The relay race started 

in Ventura, California, and 

trekked 200.3 miles down 

the California coast to Salt 

Creek State Beach in Dana 

Point, California. The team 

began the run at 9 a.m. and 

ran straight through the 

night, finishing around 3 

p.m. the following afternoon. 

Central Missouri (Lambda-Pi) 

Greg Thomas (1981) has served as a wrestling, football, 

and baseball coach for nearly 30 years. He is currently the 

head wrestling and assistant football coach at Grandview 

High School. He also helps part-time with the River 

of Refuge Dream Center in Raytown, Missouri. 

Colorado State-Pueblo (Delta-Omega) 

The chapter held its first Watermelon Bash, supported by 

the Greek Council and Office of Student Activities. 

Chapter President Wes Cordova and Associate Member 

Gerson Lopez are both employed as resident assistants. 

ELC Josh Birchfield was promoted to associate 

director of chapter services for the International 

Headquarters in Indianapolis. 

Delaware (Lambda-Beta) 

More than 75 brothers attended an alumni golf outing and 

barbeque. Special thanks to Alumni Chairman Brandon 

Biro for organizing the event and to House Manager Nick 

Talmo for ensuring the chapter house was in top shape. 

Cross & Crescent June 2010

Alumni Brothers Don Helwig, Steve Koenigsberg, and 

Adam Striebinger were unable to attend but made very 

generous contributions to support the event. Founding 

Father Ralph Von Dem Hagen (1966) was in attendance. 

Denver (Alpha-Pi) 

Scott Huelskamp won his first professional golf tournament, 

the CB Waterworks Pro Tour’s event at Buffalo Run 

Golf Course in Commerce City, Colorado. 

Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa) 

Out of 12 fraternities, the chapter placed fourth overall at Greek 

Week 2010 competition. The chapter participated in Football, 

Go Green Jeopardy, Pipino Run, Arm Wrestling, Water Relays, 

Tricycle Race, Chariot Race, Step and Stroll, Talent Show, 

Can Competition, and Tug of War. A big congratulations to 

Alumni Chairman Jamal Atif and Anthony Picataggi, who 

were elected to the Alumni Chapter Advisory Board. 

The Alumni Corporation held its annual meeting on May 

1, 2010. Chairman John McGarrigle reviewed the year’s 

achievements, including the re-colonization, implementation 

of the officer mentor program, initiation of the re-founders 

in January, and successful negotiations to re-occupy the 

chapter house on September 1, 2010. Chapter President 

Theo Speedy presented an update on the colony. Alumni 

Chairman Jamal Atif presented a plaque to the alumni 

to memorialize the undergraduates’ appreciation. 

Drury (Theta-Sigma) 

Lynn Chipperfield (1973), currently a member of the Grand 

High Zeta, has been elected chairman of the Board of Trustees 

at Drury University. With his election, the chairman of the 

board, the vice-chairman of the board, the treasurer of the 

board, the president of the university, and the president of 

the university’s Alumni Association are all Lambda Chis. 

Eastern Illinois (Phi-Alpha) 

Former chapter President Dirk Bennett was 

named Greek President of the Year. 

Nnamdi K. Clark died April 29, 2010. 

Edinboro (Beta-Delta) 

Jesse Stormer, an animation major, is working as a 

summer intern for the Communications/IT Department 

at the International Headuqarters in Indianapolis. 

After serving as compliance manager for Chapter Services 

Department, Thomas Roberts (2009) was promoted to 

associate director of communications/IT at the International 

Headquarters in Indianapolis. In his new role, he will be 

responsible for the Fraternity’s graphic design/branding 

program and the online chapter communications process. 

Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta) 


CHAPTER NEWS 

4 

The chapter held an Initiation ritual on April 30, 

2010, for the following associate members: Matthew 

McHugh, Robert Liska, and Tyler Wernecke. 

Michael Rudoff was selected as Greek Man of the Year and 

Romison Saint-Louis received the inaugural Alpha-Omega Greek 

Excellent Award in part for his efforts as president of Habitat 

for Humanity at Elmhurst College and chapter vice president. 

Embry-Riddle (Sigma-Phi) 

Chapter President Justin Fletcher was elected president 

of the Student Government Association. 

Jeffrey D. Shore (1989) died May 1, 2010. He worked 

for Salomon Brothers and Citigroup in Tampa, Florida; 

Barclays Global Investors and Investors Bank and Trust in 

San Francisco, California; and most recently, he worked at 

TIAA-CREF in Charlotte, North Carolina, as a director. 

Ferris State (Iota-Psi) 

Dr. Brent Knight was named Distinguished Alumni at Ferris 

State at an awards ceremony held on May 6, 2010. The award 

is presented to individuals who demonstrate leadership and 

service to their profession, community, service organizations, 

and alma mater. Brent began his professional career at Illinois’ 

Triton College in 1971 holding various administrative posts 

before being selected president of the college in 1976. He 

has held several other leadership positions in his career, 

including presidency of Pierce College (1985–1989) and 

Morton College (2003–2007). From 1996 to 2000, he 

served as president of Investment Resources, Inc. Currently, 

he is the president of Lansing Community College. 

Florida (Epsilon-Mu) 

Charles Smith is working as a summer intern 

for the Business Affairs Department oof the 

International Headquarters in Indianapolis. 

Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi) 

The chapter raised 

approximately $500 through 

an alumni golf tournament at 

Florida Southern College. 


The chapter organized a 

committee to contact alumni 

brothers and establish more 

accurate contact information. 

The chapter held an open house 

for alumni brothers to meet 

with current active brothers. 

The chapter organized a 

philanthropy event, “Miss 

Epsilon-Xi Beauty Pageant,” 

where they collected canned

food items for donation to Lighthouse Ministries. 

With the combined success of the fall semester’s Watermelon Bust 

and Miss Epsilon-Xi, the chapter received the Best Philanthropy 

Award through the Order of Omega Greek Life Awards. 

Florida State (Zeta-Rho) 

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for 13 associate 

members. The ceremony was organized by Fraternity 

Educator Boomer Hart and Ritualist Ryan Saboff. 

Evan D. Jennings III died May 27, 2020. He rose from an entrylevel 

real estate agent to a position of national prominence within 

the multi-family housing industry. His first sales position was in 

Atlanta with Shell Oil Co. Subsequently he worked with Zerox 

and Baxter Travenol. In 1974, Jennings obtained his real estate 

license and began working with Coldwell Banker Commercial 

Real Estate. He specialized in the marketing and sales of multifamily 

properties. Jennings continued his real estate career 

with Merrill Lynch where he launched their first multi-family 

division. From there, he moved to the Johnstown American 

Commercial Real Estate Services Co. before co-founding his 

first company, The Apartment Group, Inc. in 1996. At The 

Apartment Group, Evan’s entrepreneurial skills were honed and 

the company was the first to specialize exclusively in the sale 

of multi-family housing opportunities on the East Coast. 

Gettysburg (Theta-Pi) 

ELC Chris Cole was promoted to associate director of chapter 

services for the International Headquarters in Indianapolis. 

High Point (Iota-Phi) 

The chapter held a Pig Roast fundraiser. 

Illinois (Chi) 

Claud Jinks (1970) died April 4, 2010. He enjoyed a 

long career in the motorcycle industry, first as the owner/ 

manager of Harley-Davidson of Lincoln, Nebraska, then as 

district sales manager for Harley-Davidson Motor Co., and 

most recently as founder and manager of Dynamic Dealer 

Strategies, a consulting firm serving motorcycle dealerships. 

Illinois State (Beta-Omicron) 

The alumni association has launched a new website . 

Kansas (Zeta-Iota) 

Robert L. Walsh (1964) died January 12, 2010. After college 

he joined Hostess Cake Division working in sales in Southern 

California and Arizona markets. In 1972, Walsh joined Frito-Lay’s 

headquarters in Dallas, managing specialized programs and then 

served as a division sales manager. From 1984 to 1987, Walsh 

was national director of sales for Berol Corp., an office and art 

supplies company. In 1987, he became vice president of sales and 

marketing for Rocco, Inc. After serving as senior vice president of 

sales and marketing for Watson Quality Foods, he began a new 

career in real estate with Century 21 Real Estate Unlimited. 


CHAPTER NEWS 

5 

Kettering-A (Lambda-Epsilon A) 

The chapter is working with the B-section chapter 

counterparts to help raise money for our Housing 

Corporation to send individuals to General Assembly. 

Kettering-B (Lambda-Epsilon B) 

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for eight associate 

members: Spencer Scott, Steven Needham, Nick Kappler, Robert 

Loire, Joe Strucel, Frank Richards, Kirk White, and Jordan Renn. 

Louisiana-Lafayette (Iota-Omega) 

Chapter brothers volunteered at Festival Internationale de 

Louisiane, a music and culture festival in Lafayette, Louisiana. 

With the help of the sororities on campus, the brothers made 

more than 50 care packages to send to soldiers overseas. 

For the first time, the chapter made it to 4-Star status, 

which is an evaluation done by the university. 

Winn Lavorgna received an internship to work 

in the Chapter Services Department at the 

International Headquarters in Indianapolis. 

Dominick Rancatore was selected as a member of the 

International Ritual Team for the 53rd General Assembly 

in Phoenix. Four brothers plan to attend General 

Assembly, the most the chapter has ever sent. 

An Initiation Ritual was held for Associate 

Member Justin Jenkins. 

Kyle Sarver, Dominick Rancatore, and Dustin Chastant 

became initiated members of the Order of Omega. 

Louisiana State (Upsilon) 

Dr. Andrew H. Hoffmann Jr. (1951) died May 18, 2010. 

He interned and completed his residency in obstetrics and 

bynecology at Charity Hospital in New Orleans on the 


Independent Services. Hoffmann served his country as a captain 

in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed at Schilling AFB, 

Kansas, and headed the OB-GYN unit there for two years. In 

1961, he returned to his hometown of Thibodaux to practice. 

He was past chief of staff at Thibodaux Regional Hospital 

and a past president of Lafourche Parish Medical Society. 

Marietta (Kappa-Alpha) 

The summer season is now here! As Marietta College has now 

set off on break the Lambda Chi’s have begun planning for 

the next year. Dates have been selected for the Watermelon 

Bust, September 4, 2010, and many other fall events. This is 

going to be a crucial fall rush as we are down to only seven 

members. If anyone has any suggestions or advice or could 

help in any way please contact Jacob Taylor at jat006@ 

marietta.edu. Any help would be greatly appreciated, including 

monetary. With only seven members and not wanting to 

set $500-$600 dues it is difficult to function, help others, 

and compete with the other fraternities on campus. 

Maryland (Epsilon-Pi) 

The chapter held a philanthropy event on May 9, 

2010, benefiting the Maryland Wishes Foundation. 

The event included be a barbeque and carnival. 

The chapter was nominated for three IFC awards: most improved 

chapter, best recruitment strategy, and best inter-Greek relations. 

Two of the chapter brothers were elected to IFC 

cabinet positions, while most are involved in 

clubs and student government on campus. 

The chapter placed first in intramural volleyball. 

Massachusetts Inst of Technology (Lambda) 

The Lambda Chi Alpha clothing drive was completed this 

month, with a final total of 420 pounds of clothing. 

Because of a pick-up scheduling problem, the clothes 

were donated to the Cambridge Shelter sector of the 

Salvation Army instead of the Boston Central branch. 

Methodist (Sigma-Theta Colony) 

On April 24, 2010, 12 associate members 

completed the Initiation Ritual. 

The colony held a year-end banquet honoring all the 

seniors and giving the new officers their titles. 

Miami-FL (Epsilon-Omega) 

Validity Screening Solutions’ President and CEO Darren 

Dupriest (1991) has been recognized as a “Patriotic Employer” 

by The National Committee for Employer Support of the 

Guard and Reserve. Employer Support of the Guard and 

Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense organization 

that was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and 

understanding between Reserve component members and 

their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of 


CHAPTER NEWS 

6 

conflicts arising from an employee’s military commitment. 

Millersville (Delta-Tau) 

The chapter held its annual Buzz-a-Chi and 

raised money for histiocytosis research. 

Murray State (Lambda-Eta) 

Kent Chandler was elected IFC president and 

Logan Davis was elected IFC rush chair. 

An Initiation Ritual was held in May 2010 for six 

associate members: Gavin Wallace, CJ Dial, Braxton 

Stanfield, Bryan Conway, and Michael Brawner. 

Brothers competed in the All Campus Sing and finished second. 

New Hampshire (Alpha-Xi) 

On April 9-11, 2010, the chapter 

hosted the 2010 Northeast 

Conclave. About 50 brothers 

representing eight chapters 

from throughout the Northeast 

attended the weekend. It was 

an excellent weekend of fun, 

learning and brotherhood. 

A special thanks is given to 

Master Steward Roger Grice, former Grand High Pi Jim 

Bond, Educational Foundation President Mark Bauer and 

ELC Travis Smith for making it such a great weekend. 


New Orleans (Lambda-Alpha) 

Chapter President John Mineo, Vice President 

Brother Nick Saybe, Treasurer Lucas Funderburk, and 

Secretary Kevin Walker were elected as the leaders of 

the University of New Orleans’ student body. 

The chapter held an Initiation ritual for four associate 

members on May 14, 2010: Brett Weissbeck, Dek 

Wright, Jason Precther, and Chris Muscointo. 

Mark Morere and Stephen Gordon were selected as the chapter’s 

Alumni of the Year. Gordon was selected for his numerous 

donations to our chapter throughout the year and Morere 

was selected for buying our chapter amazing new letters. 

New Mexico State (Zeta-Gamma) 

Kevin Rudi is working as a summer intern for the Educational 

Foundation at the International Headquarters in Indianapolis. 

Northwestern (Alpha-Iota) 

Jack Hoag (1950) died May 22, 2009. A World War II 

veteran, he worked for many years in the Chicago area 

for Jewel Foods. He was a self-employed manufacturing 

sales representative prior to his retirement. 

Oklahoma (Gamma-Rho) 

The chapter won intramurals, winning its 

18th championship in 23 years. 

Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta) 

The chapter earned a 3.03 GPA for the spring 2010 semester. 

Oklahoma State (Alpha-Eta) 

The W. Roger Webb Educational Technology Center was formally 

renamed on April 21, 2010, as a tribute to the leadership of 

Northeastern State University’s 14th president whose vision 

turned into reality when the building was opened in April 

1997. Since then it has been known as the Northeastern 

Education Technology Building. During his keynote speech 

Webb (1963), who is now president of the University of 

Central Oklahoma, paused to gather words to express his 

gratitude for a gesture that recognizes his contributions to 

the university during the 19 years he served as president. 

Oregon (Zeta-Omicron) 


CHAPTER NEWS 

7 

Founding fathers, alumni brothers, and current undergraduate 

brothers gathered to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 

chapter’s re-chartering on the weekend of April 23-25, 2010. 

Founded in 1948, the chapter was brought back to life with 

16 young men in 1985. Events included a chapter-hosted 

Saturday luncheon for founding fathers and a Saturday 

night brotherhood banquet. The weekend of festivities 

culminated with a House Corporation board of directors 

meeting. The newly formed House Corporation, with Tim 

Clevenger as president, is part of a new effort to establish 

a long-term, permanent housing option for the chapter. 

Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda) 

The chapter swept the Greek Awards, winning Philanthropy 

of the Year (Watermelon Bash), Greek Man of the Year 

(Geoff Jenks), Greek Alumni Hall of Fame (Bill Deeks), 

and was runner-up for Outstanding Fraternity. 

Despite the bad weather, chapter brothers held a successful 

Watermelon Bash week working with the 10 sororities 

on campus to raise more than $8,000 (almost $2,000 

more than last year). Vice presidents Ryan Walker and 

Kevin Aguas were recognized for coordinating the 

fundraiser. Delta Gamma was the overall winner with the 

Crescent Girl going to the Kappa Delta candidate. 

The chapter won SING, the longest running student run 

production at Oregon State University. SING is a production 

that pairs fraternity and sororities to dance and sing in 

front of students and moms every Mom’s Weekend. 

Pittsburg State (Lambda-Chi) 

The chapter won Greek Week and was named Fraternity 

of the Year. In addition, Vice President Jason Ramirez was 

named Officer of the Year, Scholarship Chairman Johnny Dix 

Wellington was named Executive Board Member of the Year, and 

Faculty Adviser Doug Younger was named Adviser of the Year) 

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for four associate members. 

Rhode Island (Eta) 

Frank Calestino (1998) , the Deputy Director of Intelligence for 

the Afghan Threat Finance Cell with the U.S. Drug Enforcement 

Administration and U.S. Department of the Treasury, was 

named a 2010 Finalist — National Security and International 

Affairs Medal. This award recognizes a federal employee for a 

significant contribution to the nation in activities related to 

national security and international affairs (including defense, 

military affairs, diplomacy, foreign assistance and trade). 

This medal is accompanied by a $3,000 monetary award. 

Samford (Theta-Alpha) 

Zach Owens, Nick West, Trey McNeil, and Michael 

MacDermott traveled to Auburn University- 

Montgomery to compete in Zeta Tau Alpha’s sand 

volleyball tournament, finishing second. 


Shepherd (Phi-Iota) 

As a part of the 2010 EOC volunteers, chapter brothers 

were recognized by Gov. Joe Manchin during Shepherd 

University’s awards ceremony for aid given to the 

surrounding community during the snowstorms last winter. 

Aid included helping shovel elderly citizens driveways 

as well as setting up an aid shelter at a local church. 

Shippensburg (Phi-Tau) 

Brad Garfinkel and Jamison Reynolds (Shepherd) completed 

the Lehigh Valley Half Marathon in Allentown, Pennsylvania. 

Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi) 

The chapter named Tim Schoolfield (1997) alumnus of the year. 

Brian Gee was accepted to serve on the International Ritual 

Team at the 53rd General Assembly this summer in Phoenix. 

Jason LeGrand (1996) and Trent Blair (1996) were 

recognized by the university as Young Alumni Merit Award 

Recipients (http://www.semo.edu/news/index_28211. 

htm). LeGrand is the West Coast director of major gifts 

for the University of Maryland, College Park. Blair is a 

solution development leader, state government and higher 

education vertical markets for Johnson Controls, Inc. 

South Dakota (Alpha-Gamma) 

Collin Berke won Fraternity President of the Year Award at 

the University of South Dakota for his service last calendar 

year. Recruitment Chairman Jordan Smith won the New 

Member of the Year Award out of all Greek men. 

Texas-San Antonio (Phi-Upsilon) 

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for nine associate members 

on May 22, 2010, for a total of 491 total initiated brothers. 

Texas State (Lambda-Phi) 

Emmy-winning actor Powers Boothe (1970) served as 

the keynote speaker at Texas State’s commencement held 

on May 15, 2010. A Distinguished Alumnus of Texas 

State, he has starred in numerous TV shows and films, 

including the recently released movie “MacGruber.” 

Truman State (Phi-Psi) 

The chapter’s annual Lambda Chi Classic golf tournament 

will be held on June 27, 2010, at the The Prairies of Cahokia 

Golf Course, which is located just across the river from 

downtown St. Louis. For more information or to register, 

email Joseph E. Ascheman at jea1868@truman.edu. 

Tulsa (Epsilon-Upsilon) 

The chapter held an Initiation Ritual for three associate 

members, bringing the chapter’s total membership to 46. 

Chapter brothers held their annual Luau 

campus-wide volleyball tournament. 


CHAPTER NEWS 

8 

Villanova (Beta-Iota) 


The chapter held its chartering 

banquet on April 17, 2010. 

Representatives from the 

General Fraternity included 

former Grand High Pi Jim 

Bond (Central Missouri) and 

Associate Director of Harm 

Reduction Matt Roy (Drury). 

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau) 

The chapter hosted its first volleyball tournament 

with the Delta Zeta sorority with proceeds benefiting 

the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund. 

Wilmington (Pi-Delta) 

On March 28, 2010, the colony welcomed its newest 

initiated brothers: Nick Gibbs, Joshua Kincaid, 

Edwin “Sam” Nieves, and Skyler Siemer. 

On April 17, 2010, the chapter brothers collected 335 

full garbage bags of clothes, which were given to Sugartree 

Ministries as a part of the North American Clothing Drive. 

Chapter brothers participated in Relay for 

Life 2010 at Wilmington College. 

Chapter brothers served as ushers for campus events, including 

The Westheimer Peace Symposium and Issues and Artists.

FEATURE 

‘I owe Lambda Chi everything’ 

Chairman, President, and CEO Kevin Vasquez leads Butler Schein Animal Health, 

the world’s largest veterinary distribution company. A graduate of Western Carolina 

University, he credits the Fraternity with making him the man he is today. 

Kevin R. Vasquez (Western Carolina) remembers 

back in 1977 during the halftime festivities of the Western 

Carolina University Homecoming football game when an IBM 

executive vice president was marched out to the 50-yard line 

and presented with the university’s award of distinction. 

He remembers listening in awe to the accomplishments of 

the executive and saying, “Man, can you imagine standing 

out there on the 50-yard line at Homecoming being 

recognized in such a fashion and honored that way?” 

Over the next 30 years Vasquez achieved his own list of 

accomplishments, and in 2007, it was Vasquez being marched 


9 


By Chris Barrick (Butler) 

out to the 50-yard line during Homecoming and given the 

same accolade. While standing in front of the crowd Vasquez 

noticed all of the brothers from his chapter giving the Fraternity 

“yell” and cheering for him from across the field, and he 

gave them the Lambda Chi Alpha sign of brotherhood. 

It was a special moment for all Lambda Chis in the stadium that day. 

Career Success 

Following graduation from Western Carolina, Vasquez 

went to work for Milliken & Co. He was quickly promoted 

to shift manager of the textile manufacturer.

FEATURE 

“Joining Lambda Chi fine-tuned my thinking, 

solidified the values that were already within me, and 

the fraternal experience boosted me, quite frankly,” 

Fraternity Big Brother Roland Johnson soon 

helped recruit Vasquez into the veterinary 

industry at Diamond Shamrock in a sales 

role, followed by positions as business 

manager and director of marketing. At the 

age of 31, Vasquez became a vice president 

and by 35 he was named executive vice 

president. The company continued to 

grow and he merged the animal health 

business with Boehringer Ingelheim. 

In 1999, Vasquez moved to Boehringer’s 

largest distribution channel partner, Butler 

Animal Health Supply. The company was 

going through a troubling time and he was 

recruited to become chief operating officer 

to develop and implement a plan to turn 

the company around, just as he had done on 

two previous occasions during his career. 

“The company at that time realized 

annual sales of $240 million and was 

losing millions,” says Vasquez. “I came 

in as chief operating officer, put a plan 

together, assembled a great team of people 

and began the process of revitalization.” 

Vasquez and his team turned the company 

around quickly, becoming profitable 

within a year. He was soon appointed 

president, and facilitated major changes 

in the company. First, he directed a sale of 

the family-owned operation to a private 

equity firm. In 2005, Butler Animal 

Health merged with another strategic 

organization and a private equity firm. 

Finally, Vasquez facilitated another 

merger with pharmaceutical giant, Henry 

Schein, Inc. forming Butler Schein 

Animal Health, the largest veterinary 

distribution company in the world. 

The company has now grown to $1.4 billion 

in sales within the United States with plans 

to grow through a continued expansion 

in the International market. Currently, 

on a global basis, the Henry Schein has 

veterinary distribution sales of $2.1 billion. 

“We now capture 38 percent of the USA 

market and the leading share in the 

companion animal space by a comfortable 

margin,” says Vasquez, “We are the 

kingpin in the veterinary distribution 

business in the United States.” 

Vasquez maintains lofty goals for the 

company, aiming to grow at twice the 

market rate for the animal health sector. 

This expansion is achieved via organic growth 

in combination with an aggressive acquisition 

strategy. Even as its leader, Vasquez takes very 

little credit for the company’s success. He 

has created an atmosphere tailored towards 

empowering staff members, and believes 

the employees truly grasp the mission of 

the company and take ownership of it. 

“That’s when they’ll lift the organization 

and carry you through...I’m all about the 

team,” says Vasquez. “That part of Lambda 

Chi carried on within me...that is...working 

through a brotherhood, working as a team, 


10 


and in concert to achieve a common goal 

that takes people and the organization 

beyond their own expectations.” 

He maintains a philosophy that the 

credit belongs to those in the trenches 

and that every organization chart 

needs to be flipped upside down to 

truly depict where the value is. 

“I consider myself to be on the bottom of 

the chart, not the top,” he explains. “It’s 

really those folks at the foundation of the 

organization chart that provide true success.” 

Living up to his philosophy, during 

the recent recession Vasquez froze the 

pay of all the executives to ensure that 

everyone else in the organization received 

their richly deserved merit increases. 

“If anything, I’m probably one of the greatest 

enablers that you will ever come across. I 

recognize good people and have a talent for 

promoting talent. I tear down the walls and 

provide an avenue to enable good people to 

do good work. That has turned us into the 

powerhouse that we are today. Quite honestly, 

I/we promote the core values of Lambda 

Chi Alpha throughout our company... 

this has been the secret of our success. 

Vasquez boasts that his company has a 

very low turnover rate and credits the 

close relationship he has with the staff. 

“We have a close-knit group of associates,” 

says Vasquez, “I truly believe that many 

of them would step out in front of a truck 

for me...but the reason I feel they would 

is because they know I’ll step out first.” 

Vasquez’s future success came in large part 

from the work ethic and empathy he gained 

as a young child. His father passed away

suddenly when he was only nine years old. 

He grew up in eastern North Carolina with 

very little. He and his three siblings worked 

from a young age to contribute to the family. 

“Basically out of necessity, I had to get 

out there and work in the tobacco fields 

of North Carolina,” says Vasquez. “I never 

quit working. It was part of our mantra to 

work and help support the family along 

the way. I’ve done every odd job that you 

can imagine, from working in the fields to 

emptying trash to scrubbing bathrooms.“ 

College & Lambda Chi 

While sitting in his high school guidance 

councilor’s office, Vasquez ran across 

a brochure on Western Carolina. He 

found it to be an affordable but reputable 


FEATURE 

university, important to him since he 

would have to work to put himself through 

college. It was a wise choice in his view. 

“It was the only university that I applied to”, 

says Vasquez. “When I read the manual, it 

was as if it all fit, like all the stars lined up.“ 

Once on campus Vasquez got an early taste 

of Lambda Chi from a brother campaigning 

at his dorm and running for student 

government. The brother impressed him, 

leading to Vasquez to pursue membership 

in Lambda Chi. “They were the kind of 

guys that I identified with,” he says. “They 

were all forthright, mature for their ages, 

caring and dynamic. They were everything 

that I wanted to become associated with.” 

Initially Vasquez wasn’t going to join the 

fraternity because he was unable to afford it, 

but he became determined to find a way to 

make it work...which fortunately he did. 

“Joining Lambda Chi fine-tuned my 

thinking, solidified the values that were 

already within me, and the fraternal 

experience boosted me, quite frankly,” says 

Vasquez. “I’ve stated this publicly on a 

number of occasions. The brothers at Beta- 

Zeta and the Lambda Chi Alpha organization 

lifted me and brought out the leadership 

skills and values that I maintain today.” While 

Vasquez was in college, the Western Carolina 

Beta-Zeta chapter won the Grand High Alpha 

Award twice – once while he was president. 

“I still maintain a close relationship 

with many of my brothers – it’s been in 

some cases a 35-year relationship.” 

Lambda Chi Alpha has continued to play 

an important role in Vasquez’s life. He 

believes the values articulated within the 

True Brother Initiative were the values 

11 


he learned as an undergraduate brother 

and continue to guide him today. 

“It just instilled in me a quality and 

fortitude. Our great Fraternity is faith-based 

instituting the values of true brotherhood... 

so everything about Lambda Chi has done 

nothing but boost me throughout my career,” 

says Vasquez. “I’ve made the statement 

recently that I owe Lambda Chi everything 

regarding any success in my life; how I’ve 

thought about things, and how to stay true 

to my convictions and my fellow man. I 

still carry those values -- the true values that 

lie within the True Brother Initiative.” 

Vasquez exemplifies what it is to be a lifetime 

brother. He meets with brothers for an 

annual gathering. The group continues to get 

excited as they yell Lambda Chi cheers. He 

began donating to the Fraternity right after 

graduating college, starting with a modest 

$10 and has contributed every year since. 

“Being a part of Lambda Chi is refreshing, 

invigorating, and it’s more satisfying than 

anything I have ever been associated with,” 

says Vasquez. “That’s why I stay involved and 

why I’ve been donating to the Fraternity for 

all of these years and will continue to do so.” 

Vasquez became a member of the Lambda 

Chi Investment Advisory Board in 1994, 

and has served as its chairman. He took a 

break from the General Fraternity between 

2003 and 2007, but then rejoined the 

Educational Foundation Board of Directors. 

“ I will be involved with Lambda 

Chi as long as they want me,” 

says Vasquez. “A true brother 

doesn’t stop being a brother when 

he graduates from college.”


FEATURE 

Order of Achievement Recipent 

Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received the Order of Achievement on April 24, 

2010, during a banquet held in his honor the University of North Dakota. 

12 

Former North Dakota Gov. Allen Olson received 

the Order of Achievement on April 24, 2010, 

during a banquet held in his honor the University 

of North Dakota. After serving two terms as the 

state’s attorney general, he was elected as governor 

in 1981. 

About receiving the award, Olson says: “Most 

things are taken in stride at my time in life but I 

certainly appreciated it both from the national 

fraternity and from the local chapter. It was a 

very enjoyable time for me.” 

Lambda Chi Alpha Properties Chairman and 

Master Steward Mike Smith (Denver) attended 

the event representing the General Fraternity. 

Career 

Olson is a Republican politician and lawyer who 

served as the 28th governor of North Dakota 

from 1981 to 1985. 

He received his law degree from the University of 

North Dakota where he joined Lambda Chi 

Alpha Fraternity and served in the U.S. Army as 

a judge advocate general’s corps lawyer. 

In 1967 he served as chief of military justice in 

Munich, West Germany. From 1967 to 1969, he 

served as the assistant director of the Legislative 

Research Committee, which directed the state’s 

first study of strip mining, soil banks, and land 

reclamation. 

Olson entered a private law practice in 1969 

under the law firm of Conmy, Rosenberg, Lucas 

and Olson. He ran for attorney general in 1972, 

and served two terms in that position. 


By Tad Lichtenauer (Denison) )

Years as Governor 

In 1980, Olson sought the governor’s office and successfully defeated 

incumbent Governor Arthur A. Link that year. Olson’s achievements 

during his term include the creation of the Department of Human 

Services, and the conversion of the Cross-Ranch to a state park. 

He also worked with the Task Force on Drunk Driving and supported 

the Garrison Diversion program. 

After losing his bid for re-election, he returned to private law practice in 

Bismarck for a year before leaving to Minneapolis to join the law firm of 

Fredrikson and Byron. 

In 1987, he left the firm to become co-owner of a die-casting company 

out of New Hope, Minnesota. 

He also is finishing his term as commissioner of the International Joint 

Commission of Canada and the United States, a position he was 

appointed to by President George W. Bush in 2002. The commission 

was established in 1909, and was created by Canada and the United 

States because they recognized that each country is affected by the 

other’s actions in lake and river systems along the border. 

Values and Brotherhood 

When asked about the values he learned from Lambda Chi Alpha, 

Olson says: “I think it reinforced the values that my father had instilled 

in me. I would give the most credit to him. He was dead-straight 

honest, respected other people. But I would say that the Fraternity 

reinforced those values and that’s important....the values of the Ritual 

and the relationships you experience being active in a Fraternity chapter 

are very important.” 

One of the most memorable stories Olson shared about the impact of 

Lambda Chi Alpha occurred when he was elected governor. 

“The day after I was elected governor, the phone rang at about 6 o’clock 

in the morning and it was a ham radio operator in Connecticut,” he 

says. 


FEATURE 

13 

The operator wanted to confirm that he had reached Olson as he had 

someone waiting in the middle of the Indian Ocean, an old friend 

and Fraternity brother. 

“It was Tom Moga. He was in the middle of his round the world 

sailing trip and he was in the middle of the Indian Ocean and had 

managed to connect through a ham radio operator to congratulate 

me. So that was one of those unique experiences that wouldn’t have 

occurred without the Fraternity.” 

What’s Next? 

After Olson’s duty with the International Joint Commission is 

concluded, Olson says he won’t completely retire. Splitting time 

living between Arizona and the Twin Cities in Minnesota, Olson has 

some interesting projects on his plate. 

“I’ll continue, and I again think this is an extension of the values that 

Lambda Chi reinforced and in some cases instilled...I will continue 

on two of the major senior service companies in the region, 

Presbyterian Homes & Services and Augastana Health Care Center 

for Minneapolis,” he says. “They are two non-profits where I’ve been 

able to use my background and experience to be helpful.” 

There’s also another project with the Humane Society and the Pets 

for Vets project that he is investigating becoming involved with in 

Minnesota. His wife is already very involved with the Humane 

Society so this would be a natural extension of Olson’s diverse 

military and public service experiences. 



FEATURE 

St. Louis College of Pharmacy’s Bright Future 

With more than 50 brothers and a 3.0 GPA, the Pi-Lambda chapter actively 

recruits leaders on the campus, those with a top GPA, as well as men who 

are working toward leadership positions in other campus organizations. 

Jon Williamson (Maryland) 

Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo 

oooooooooooo! Eutectics! 

Okay, now that I have your attention, may I see a quick show 

of hands of persons who know what a Eutectic is? Yes, you are 

correct if you identified it as the official mascot of the Saint 

Louis College of Pharmacy. It is a gremlin-looking creature 

holding a mortar and pestle. 

Of course, I could be ruthless and ask you what a mortar and 

pestle are. Now, can you define eutectics? Correct again if you 

said it is a scientific process of combining two solids to form a 

liquid. 

For your final exam question, can you identify the only social 

fraternity on the SLCOP campus? Yes, it is Lambda Chi Alpha. 

Before I talk about the chapter it might be worthwhile to take a 

look at the school. 

History of Pi-Lambda 

The St. Louis College of Pharmacy, founded in 1864 and 

located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a six-year professional 

14 

curriculum that leads to a doctor of pharmacy degree. The 

college has more than 1,100 students and the only major is 

pharmacy. Needless to say, it is an elite school and Lambda Chi 

is very fortunate to be on the campus. 

Brandon Eldridge (2009), has the distinction of being No. 1 

on the Pi-Lambda chapter rolls and the honor of being its first 

chapter president. Both seem fitting since he went to visit a 

couple of his friends in college in Springfield, Missouri, who 

just happened to be 

Lambda Chis. He 

appreciated the concept 

of fraternity and returned 

to St. Louis College of 

Pharmacy with the goal 

of bringing Lambda Chi 

Alpha to the campus. It 

took a year, but the 

colony emerged in 2004 and was installed in 2005. 

I had a chance to speak with Evan Schnur, the current High 

Alpha, while he took a break during finals week. “Presently, we 

have 56 brothers in the chapter, many of whom hold leadership 

positions on the campus. Brian Ogweno is the Student Body 

Union president. 

Zac Walter is the 

president of the 

Programming Board. 

Two brothers, Zac 

Walter and Brian 

Chronister are 

members of the cross 

country team. 

Brandon Luong is 

the editor of 

Prescipto, the college yearbook. The president of Phi Lambda 

Sigma, the pharmacy leadership society, is Jason Wang. Kyle 

Amelung is president of the American College of Clinical 

Pharmacy, and I am the student coordinator of the Missouri 

Pharmacy Association. The chapter continues to have a 

significant presence in intramurals on the campus, fielding one 


to three teams in each sport, and winning 

indoor soccer and volleyball this year. 

Academically, we are very proud of our 

3.0 GPA last semester. The brothers are 

also active in philanthropy work. The 

proceeds from our Watermelon Bash are 

donated to the Arnold Food Pantry. In 

addition, brothers do volunteer work at 

the St. Patrick Center, which is a 

homeless shelter and soup kitchen. 

Besides the physical work, brothers help 

people at the shelter obtain employment 

through assisting them in building their 

interview skills and in resume writing.” 

Evan also explained recruitment. “We are 

a six-year college with one major. During 


FEATURE 

the first semester of their freshman year 

the students get used to the rugged 

academic schedule. During the second 

semester they become introduced to 

Lambda Chi through a number of events, 

both social and philanthropic. 

Recruitment doesn’t take place until fall 

of the second year and is only open to 

students who have a 2.4 cumulative GPA. 

We actively recruit leaders on the campus, 

15 


those with a top GPA, as well as men 

who are working toward leadership 

positions in other campus organizations. 

So, our members are active during their 

second through fifth years.” 

Alumni Relations 

Do you have any alumni? “This year will 

mark our second group of brothers 

graduating the program, giving us a total 

of 40. We are making sure we stay in 

touch with them through regular 

correspondence and we have begun 

making monetary requests. We are many 

years away from having our own chapter 

house, so the alumni who make 

contributions tell us how they want it 

spent. Most of the money goes toward 

our philanthropic efforts. We are also 

fortunate in having two alumni brothers 

assist us. Dr. Ken Schafermeyer is our 

faculty adviser. He is a professor of 

Pharmacy Administration here at the 

college. Justin Browne (Southwest 

Missouri State) is the High Pi. Justin is a 

master steward and attends all of our 

meetings. Recently, his unit in the U.S. 

Marine Corps Reserve was called to active 

duty, so he will be serving in Georgia for 

the next year.” 

This is a great time for the brothers of 

Pi-Lambda Zeta. They are entrenched in 

a leadership position on the campus, 

emphasizing quality during the recruiting 

process. Hazing is unknown within the 

brotherhood and they are an Inner Circle 

chapter. The future is bright and the 

horizon is endless.


FEATURE 

San Diego’s Secret to Success 

The Delta-Kappa chapter at the University of San Diego is the largest fraternity on the 

campus, carries a 3.19 GPA, and earned the Dean’s Trophy four of the past nine years. 

I began my search for the history of our chapter at the University of San Diego 

with a conversation with George Spasyk (Michigan 1949), executive vice 

president emeritus of our great Fraternity. 

“I always enjoyed my travels to the city of San Diego,” he says. “It is a great city 

with good atmosphere, a naval station, and the university on the hill. I always 

nurtured the hope that one day we could have a chapter there. That 

opportunity arose when the Plourds arrived in San Diego.” 

Plourds’ Influence 

The “Plourds” to whom George refers are Lewis A. Plourd (Butler 1949), 

who began his post graduate association with Lambda Chi Alpha as a traveling 

secretary, and two of his sons. (As an aside to this story, Lewis Plourd took 

George on his first training visit to DePauw University in 1950, when George 

joined the staff.) In 1964, Lewis Plourd became a member of the Grand High 

Zeta, serving initially as Grand High Kappa followed by two other positions 

before being elected as Grand High Alpha in 1970. 

16 


Jon Williamson (Maryland ) 

I located Stephen Plourd in San Diego. “I joined Lambda Chi Alpha at 

Arizona State and transferred to the University of San Diego. I worked with 

my father and brother, Chris, who was in law school at the time, to develop a 

chapter. At that time there was one other fraternity on the campus. By 1977, 

we had 12 to 15 men interested in starting a fraternity, so a colony was 

founded. It was an excellent experience.” 

Mark Cordova (1978), president of Centennial Bolt in Colorado, remembers 

those early days. “I was in the first class of initiates. The chapter was installed 

by the San Diego State University chapter. I had a great experience and I am 

grateful to the Fraternity for being part of my formative years that led to 

success. My son was initiated into Lambda Chi Alpha at Loyola Marymount 

University.” 

Another brother from those earliest of days is John Trifiletti (1978). “I 

remember the Plourds and their efforts to found the chapter. I had the honor 

of serving as the first president, and Jackson Muecke and Tom Cosgrove were 

our faculty advisers. The installation dinner was held at the 94th Aero

Squadron. Lewis Plourd passed away unexpectedly in 1979 and the colony 

seemed to just dissolve. The campus Greeks grew, beginning in the middle 

1980s, and we returned in 1995. I have such good memories of my 

experiences.” 

Steven D. Blair (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo 1988), served on our staff from 

1988 to 1990 and was a member of the Grand High Zeta beginning as 

Grand High Sigma in 1987-1988, and two subsequent positions from 2000 

to 2004, and was the chapter’s first chapter adviser. 

“I remember the school administration in 1995 was totally supportive, 

especially the Greek adviser. We recruited upperclassmen from business 

organizations and top scholars. They were a mature group of men who didn’t 

want to waste the time they had remaining in college so they worked as a 

team to make their fraternity successful. This was so much more than just a 

social group. The chapter received tremendous assistance from the Lambda 

Chi alumni association in San Diego. The chapter began with an alumni 

advisory board, which gave them stability immediately and which continues 

to this day. The expansion project to the University of San Diego and 

eventual colonization and chartering is one of my greatest joys and fondest 

memories in my post-graduate Lambda Chi experience. It was really the best 

culmination of all my undergraduate, alumni, and General Fraternity 

experiences rolled into one.” 

Rob Woods (1997) was the first chapter president to serve one full year in 

the position. (Rob served on staff for two years after graduation.) “I wasn’t 

one of the first joiners. I decided to join after a good friend in the pre-law 

society joined Lambda Chi. I joined the chapter because they didn’t have 

hazing. In addition, I already had many things going on in other campus 

organizations and I wanted an opportunity to be a leader within the chapter. 

Being a founding father is similar to being an entrepreneur in that it takes a 


FEATURE 

17 

couple of years to see the fruits of our efforts. My favorite memory is when we 

recruited 20 men knowing that they saw the same thing we had seen and it 

validated our efforts. We knew then that it would live on after we had 

graduated. You have to trust that you have picked the right men and they will 

make it even better.” 

Largest Fraternity on Campus 

To see if Rob was correct in his forecast I turned to the current chapter 

president, Zach Flati. “Presently, we are the largest fraternity on the campus 

with 124 brothers and two associate members. Our recruitment and 

retention rate is over 95 percent and we practice an anti-hazing policy. New 

AMs are welcomed into the brotherhood. We are very supportive of each 

other’s student organization events including philanthropy. We are very active 

in philanthropic efforts selling a calendar throughout campus, which raised 

$4,000, and sponsoring a basketball tournament. Many of the brothers work 

in a soup kitchen in downtown San Diego twice a month. Our GPA 

currently stands at 3.19 and we have captured the Dean’s Trophy, emblematic 

of the top fraternity on the campus, four of the past nine years. Our brothers 

are active in many organizations with several of the brothers participating in 

varsity and club sports. Ken Greenman (Southern California 1965) is our 

High Pi and an outstanding role model who has been recognized on the 

campus for his leadership.” 

I wanted to learn the secret for their chapter’s success. Zach was very clear, 

“The chapter values are in alignment with the values of our school and the 

General Fraternity. We are good men who attract other good men.” 


Epsilon-Delta’s Rise & Fall 


FEATURE 

After winning the Grand High Alpha Award in 1998, the Montana State chapter 

voluntarily surrendered its charter just eight short years later. During its lengthy 

history, the Epsilon-Delta chapter produced many notable alumni brothers. 

The petitioning of Delta Tau Fraternity of Montana State College at 

Bozeman, Montana, to become a chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha 

began in June 1928. 

One year later the men received the backing of Bruce McIntosh, 

the administrative secretary for Lambda Chi at the time. However, it 

would be two more years, until May 8, 1931, until they were finally 

approved and installed by our Washington State University brothers. 

In previous writings on the history of various chapters you have been 

introduced to the term “Barbarians,” or “Barbs,” as non-fraternity 

men were called. 

From 1917 to 1924, there was a strong anti-fraternity sentiment that 

developed at the College which resulted in the formation of an 

independent organization called the “Order of the Barb.” This group 

of men was successful in attracting the leaders of various campus 

organizations and winning campus-wide elections. This organization 

imploded over the course of a few years with various factions breaking 

off into what became local fraternities, one of which was Delta Tau. 

Interesting Twist 

An interesting twist in the chapter history occurred in 1933, when 

the chapter merged with the Amigo Fraternity and 19 men were 

initiated. In addition, the chapter moved into the former Amigo 

Fraternity chapter house. One of the Amigo brothers was James 

Gannaway (1933), president of the Associated Students. The chapter’s 

House Corporation was named Amigo in their honor. 

The original 34 petitioners of Lambda Chi were very active on 

campus with varsity athletes in five sports and other members in the 

college band, the college chorus, and in numerous professional and 

honorary organizations. Matt Hugo Pakkala was elected to a Rhodes 

Scholarship. Mr. Pakkala spent the majority of his life working for the 

U.S. Steel Corp. as a chief metallurgical engineer. 

Others in that founding group were Everett and Rolland Crumley 

(1932), brothers who worked as oil producers in Montana; Claude 

Evans who worked on the Morony Dam Project; Carl Hollensteiner 

(1930) who was a dredge engineer; Sidney McArthur who operated a 

power plant; and Paul Wenaas (1931) who was No. 1 on the chapter 

rolls and became the director of research for Simoniz Company. 

18 



I spoke with Robert Baxter 

(1971), about his memories of 

the chapter. “The majority of 

the brothers didn’t have much 

money. Everybody was 

working but we did go all-out 

once a year with a party we 

called “Yukon Days.” This was 

a dance and party where 

everyone dressed up like the 

old Mountain Men. It was 

usually held in a rented hall 

on the east side of Bozeman. Our chapter was a pretty good size with 

about 75 men on average. I lived in the house for a couple of years. 

The brothers were very active in intramurals, and we were especially 

competitive in softball. We always battled for the traveling trophy for 

highest GPA. My best memories were of the Ritual and the 

camaraderie of brothers.” 

Another brother from the ‘70s is David McIntyre (1977): “I began as 

a GDI and didn’t want to be in a fraternity. A friend, Stu Challender 

(1977), invited me to visit the Lambda Chi house and I was amazed 

that I enjoyed myself. The fraternity was a bunch of guys just like me, 

working to get through school. I joined Lambda Chi in the spring of 

my sophomore year and lived in the house my junior and senior 

years. I wildly enjoyed all aspects of the house and met wonderful 

men for whom I came to develop a lot of respect. There are so many 

things that I remember which bring a smile to my face. I definitely 

remember the “crushes” which was where everyone would pile on in 

the middle of the room. You definitely didn’t want to be on the 

bottom of the crush. I also remember everyone would work together 

to accomplish a task whether it was at a philanthropy event or just 

working on the house. My biggest regret is that I haven’t kept up with 

many of my Fraternity brothers. I also remember the Yukon Days 

party. What made that special, in addition to everybody dressing up,

was that alumni would come back to be a 

part of it. A couple of very special things are 

associated with Lambda Chi. After I joined I 

found out that my uncle was also a Lambda 

Chi of the Montana State chapter. And of 

course my biggest connection to both Yukon 

Days and the chapter house is that I met my 

future wife at the Yukon Days party and I 

proposed to her in the fraternity house, and 

we remain happily married.” 

Top Honor, Tough Times, 

& Hope for the Future 

In the summer of 1998, the Montana State 

University chapter received the Grand High 

Alpha Award. This is our highest chapter 

honor, recognizing those chapters that have 

maintained superior operations and fraternal 

spirit for a minimum of three consecutive 

years. 

In this issue of Cross & Crescent you have had 

an opportunity to read of a chapter that was 

founded just five years ago and is already 

blossoming. In a second article you have had 

an opportunity to read of a chapter that was 

originally founded 33 years ago, lasted for 

only 12 months, and then was re-founded 

15 years ago and is now thriving. But a 

fraternity chapter is a fragile entity whose 

strengths are its members and each year 

brothers leave to enter the outside world and 

new ones are invited to take their place. It is 

this latter process which is the most critical 

to the chapter’s success and survival. 

Unfortunately, in 2006, just eight short years 

after achieving the peak of fraternity success, 

the three remaining brothers of our once 

proud chapter at Montana State University 

voluntarily surrendered their charter. The 

chapter’s membership had included two 

Rhodes Scholars, three military flag officers, 

occupational excellence in academic 

achievement, and prominence in medical, 

legal, higher education, and business. 

It is the General Fraternity’s hope that, in the 

not too distant future, another group of men 

seeking the ultimate fraternity experience 

and capable of replicating the success of the 

original chapter, will take their place on the 

campus. 


FEATURE 

Notable Epsilon-Delta Brothers 

Dr. Stephen E. Balzarini (1970), professor at 

Gonzaga University since 1978, awarded the 

Gonzaga University teaching excellence award 

(1992); recognized in Who’s Who in American 

Teachers (1998). 

J. Gregg Berryman (1965), professor of graphic 

design at California State University @ Chico 

designed the school’s seal. 

Bob Brown (1970), former Montana secretary of 

state and the Republican nominee for governor in 

2004; spent two years in the State House, 23 in the 

State Senate; currently a fellow at the Rocky 

Mountain Institute at the University of Montana. 

Kenneth M. Christison (1964), co-captain of the 

football team, president of the senior class, member 

of the Montana State University Athletic Hall of 

Fame, currently an attorney in California. 

Joseph Crocifisso (1969), retired from the State of 

Montana after 30 years of service, currently an artist 

concentrating on the Montana landscape. 

Dr. Charles C. Davis (1962), professor of 

mechanical engineering at Kettering University. 

Dr. Leonard W. Etchart (1950), practicing internal 

medicine in Montana. 

Thomas Lee Finch (1990), assistant professor of 

military science at South Dakota School of Mines. 

Dr. W. Chester Fitch (1938), dean emeritus of 

engineering at Western Michigan University. 

John Thomas Hays, Jr. (1935), engineering student 

at Oxford (Rhodes Scholar) and returned to the 

California Institute of Technology to receive his 

doctorate in chemistry; involved with a government 

sponsored research program that invented synthetic 

rubber during World War II; served as the president 

of the Delaware State Golf Association. 

Dr. Steve A. Holt (1963), radiologist in Lakewood, 

Colorado. 

Roy Leon Lashway (1959), retired director of 

auxiliary services for New Mexico State University, 

received Lambda Chi Alpha’s Order of Merit for 

service to the New Mexico State chapter. 

Ted Mannix (1939), former Montana state senator. 

Franklin Giles Matsler (1948), retired chancellor of 

Illinois State University. 

John O’Meara (1967), vice president of finance for 

the Alaska Railroad Corporation. 

Robert Olsson (1975), CFO of Oxygen Service 

Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. 

Dr. George F. Parke (1934), physician in 

Washington. 

19 


Thomas D. Paulson (1960), graduated from the 

U.S. Naval Academy, rear admiral, director of Navy 

Training and Documents; awarded the Legion of 

Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, and Navy 

Commendation Medal. 

Ralph Polanec (1979), general manager of the 

Crowne Plaza Hotel – The Hamilton in Washington, 

D.C. 

Dr. Wayne Putman (1966), orthodontist in Juneau, 

Alaska. 

Robert F. “Bob” Raggio (1966), lieutenant general, 

commander Aeronautical Systems Center, awarded 

the Distinguished Service Medal (oak leaf cluster), 

Legion of Merit. 

Erlind G. Royer (1961), brigadier general, dean of 

faculty, U.S. Air Force Academy, awarded the 

Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious Service 

Medal (2 oak leaf clusters). 

Dr. Harold Scudamore (1937), Ph.D. and MD, 

professor at Mayo Clinic. 

Robert Reed Sissman (1973), set designer on 

numerous television series. 

Dr. Hollice H. Snyder (1944), professor emeritus of 

business at West Texas A & M. 

Dr. Charles Stokke (1970), dentist in Anaconda. 

Dr. Oscar Ardell Swenson (1953), physician in 

Montana. 

George Taylor (1952), former superior court 

commissioner/judge in Montana. 

Gene Raymond Terland (1983), Montana state 

director for the Bureau of Land Management in 

Montana and the Dakotas. 

Colonel Robert Alexander Tipton (1983), 

Commandant of the United States Army Engineer 

School, awarded the Bronze Star Medal with ‘V’ (3 

oak leaf clusters), Army Commendation Medal (4 

oak leaf clusters), served in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

Dr. James Tooke (1969), veterinarian in Ekalaka. 

Lt. Colonel Timothy Trefts (1987), pilot in the 

U.S. Air Force. 

Dr. Carl Per Troedsson (1990), anesthesiologist in 

South Carolina. 

Joren J. Underdahl (1992), superintendent of 

Montana Veterans’ Home. 

David Watling (1968), CFO for M.A. Gedney in 

Chaska, Minnesota. 

G. Frank Williss (1961), historian with the 

National Park Service, author.

The Cole Ritual: Its Debt to the Grange 

A two-part article about the initial creation by Lambda Chi 

Alpha’s founding father. 

Bruce H. McIntosh (DePauw 1916), writing in the 1930 History 

Number of the Purple, Green, and Gold magazine, had this to say 

about the Cole Ritual: 

“The first ritual of the Fraternity was an odd combination of 

features found in the degree work of Gamma Eta Gamma, legal 

fraternity, and the Grange or Patrons of Husbandry. This crude 

ritual did not long satisfy members of the growing Fraternity... 

with the result that it was virtually “junked” and the present ritual, 

less some minor alterations, substituted. ” 

Harsh words. So harsh that Cole, in his personal copy of the History 

Number, circled and strongly underlined the words “crude” and 

“junked.” Of course, Cole had no chance to defend himself at that time 

against such criticism. In 1930, he was on the outside looking in. 

The actual date of the first Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual, while labeled 

1909, was more likely 1912. John Clark Jordan, in The Confidential 

History of the Early Years of Lambda Chi Alpha, stated that “the evidence 

does not justify believing that a ritual, a constitution, a Grand High 

Zeta, ... were in existence prior to November, 1911.” According to the 

January 30, 1912, Alpha Book of Minutes, a special committee was 

appointed “... to work out the ‘unwritten work’ of Lambda Chi Alpha”. 

I believe that the Cole Ritual was written between February 1912 and 

May 1912. The first mention of a written Ritual was in a letter from 

Warren A. Cole (Boston 1912) to Albert Cross (Pennsylvania 

1913) that was dated May 27, 1912. 

Just what influence did the Grange Ritual have on the Cole Ritual? 

While it is doubtful that Cole was a member of the Grange, at the time 

he wrote his Ritual, it is possible. The Grange does permit teenage boys 

and girls to join the organization. Member or not, Cole acquired a copy 

of the Manual of Subordinate Granges of the Patrons of Husbandry to 

use in his crafting of our first Ritual. 

As to the influence of Gamma Eta Gamma on the Cole Ritual, little 

can be said at this time. A copy of its constitution was available to Cole 

and it probably influenced the content of the first edition of the 

Lambda Chi Alpha Constitution. No evidence can be found at this 

time to point to its being used in the creation our earliest Ritual. 

I have in my possession a copy of the first Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual 

that was used to install Gamma Zeta in 1912. It is identified as our first 

Ritual and was typed by Cole. I also have in my possession a copy of 

the Grange Ritual as issued by the National Grange. I did a content 


HISTORY 

20 


by Mike Raymond (Miami-OH) 

analysis of the documents and a page by page comparison of both 

Rituals. There is no question in my mind that Warren A. Cole 

borrowed heavily from the Grange Ritual. My guess is that he did this 

because of the pressure of time on him to have a Ritual of some kind 

available to initiate new members during the initial surge of five new 

zetas in 1912. 

It must be mentioned that the practice of “borrowing” elements from 

one fraternity’s ritual to create a new fraternity ritual is nothing new. 

The Grange Ritual itself leans on Freemasonry for its basic structure 

and form. The Freemasons, being the oldest fraternity on record, 

established certain landmarks, practices, procedures, and symbols that 

have influenced adult and collegiate fraternities that followed them. 

Including the present Ritual of Lambda Chi Alpha.

The Business Meeting 

Let’s look at a variety of rituals to demonstrate the connection between 

the Grange and Lambda Chi Alpha Rituals. The first Ritual is for 

Opening a Meeting. Cole definitely cribbed this Ritual from the 

Grange: 

Grange - “The hour of labor has arrived...” 

Cole - “The hour of assembly has arrived...” 

Grange - “Let each repair to his or her allotted station.” 

Cole - “Let each repair to his assigned station.” 

Both Rituals make reference to closing the “gates” and making them 

“fast.” While the Grange Ritual is marked with song, Lambda Chi 

Alpha’s opening is spiced with the Fraternity Cry: 

L.C.A. L.C.A. : RAH, RAH, RAH; 

Lambda Chi Alpha 

This is followed by the Order of Business that roughly follows the 

Order of Business as conducted by the Grange. Cole’s Ritual uses a 

more detailed balloting procedure that is very much like that of 

Freemasonry. Using terms like “clear,” “white ball” and “black ball” that 

would be familiar to all Freemasons. 

The Closing of a Meeting Ritual is very similar in the Cole and Grange 

Rituals: 

Grange - “...are the labors of the day completed?” 

Cole - “Brothers our work for the day has been completed...” 

Grange - “As there is no more work for us to-day, the Steward will see 

that the implements are properly secured for the night.” 

Cole - “...and as there are is no more for us to do this day, I command 

the E.P. (Eminent Proctor) to safely secure our implements for work in 

their proper places...” 

Cole does not mention the nature of the “implements,” so this aspect of 

his Ritual remains a mystery. 

Ritual for Opening a Zeta 

It is interesting to note that Cole used the Grange’s Installation of 

Officers as the framework for this Ritual. This simple ceremony was 

used to install a new zeta of the Fraternity, in this case Gamma. Here is 

a direct comparison that demonstrates Cole’s liberal use of the Grange 

Ritual: 


HISTORY 

21 

Grange - “Almighty Father, Maker and Ruler of the universe, and giver 

of every good and perfect gift, we beseech Thee to be with us on this 

occasion. Bless those who shall now be installed officers of the Grange, 

and endow them with prudence and wisdom.” 

Cole - “Almighty Father, maker of heaven and earth we beseech Thee to 

be with us on this occasion, bless those who are now to be affiliated 

with us and take into our midst and endow them with prudence and 

wisdom.” 

Taking into account some changes in sentence structure and 

punctuation, both passages have essentially the same meaning. 

The opening prayer is followed by a set of instructions to the installing 

officer. These instructions included a series of questions to the new 

zeta’s officers. The degree team was instructed to give up their positions 

upon the installation of the chosen officers of the new zeta. It was also 

noted that the “petitioning body must have been through the initiation 

ceremony before the opening of the Zeta.” 

The installing officer, M.W.S.E.A.(Most Worshipful Supreme Eminent 

Archon), next asks each of the new zeta’s officers a series of questions. 

Most of the questions are addressed to the M.V.S.E.C. (Most Venerable 

Supreme Eminent Consul). The questions are concerned with the 

definition of a zeta; the division of the zeta into three jurisdictions; the 

duties of the officers of the zeta; and the duties of the E.A. (Eminent 


Archon), E.C. (Eminient Consul), and E.Ch. 

(Eminent Chancellor). 

The first mention of the Delta appears at this 

time in the Cole Ritual. Though its meaning 

and significance has evolved over time, it 

represents one of the more creative and original 

elements of the Cole Ritual. It joins the 

concept of a zeta as one of our two oldest 

symbols. In this Ritual the Delta is closely 

associated with the three chief officers of a zeta 

at that time. It also adds a much needed 

symbolic element to his Ritual. 

Here are a couple of examples of Cole’s use of 

the wording of the Grange Ritual: 

Grange - “And now I declare the officers of this 

Grange duly installed. May your labors be 

pleasant, and your duties faithfully performed, 

to the satisfaction of all working under you. Be 

cheerful and united. ‘Behold how good and 

how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell 

together in unity. It is like the precious 

ointment upon the head, that ran down upon 

the beard - even Aaron’s beard - that went 

down to the skirts of his garment...’” 

Cole - “I now declare these officers duly 

installed and the________Zeta of Lambda 

Chi Alpha duly organized. May your labors be 

pleasant and your duties faithfully performed, 

to the satisfaction of all brothers working with 

you. Behold it is like the precious ointment, 

and good and pleasant for brothers to dwell 

together in a unity.” 


FEATURE 

Grange - “...His love, that our every good word 

and work may be blessed with abundant 

harvests of joy and peace.” 

Cole - “May we remember that amid all that is 

bright and beautiful in nature, there is love and 

sunshine, and may we all be blessed with 

abundant harvests of joy and peace.” 

In a roundabout way, the Bible verse 

concerning the “precious ointment” came to 

this Ritual by way of the Freemasons, through 

the Grange, to Lambda Chi Alpha. It is a 

perfect example of the influence of 

Freemasonry on other fraternal bodies. 

At this point in the Cole Ritual For Opening a 

Zeta he lists the following information about 

Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. 

MOTTO 

The Fraternity Motto is Delta Phi. 

COLORS 

Royal Purple background, and olive green 

background, combined with gold lettering. 

The Cry and Greek letters for Lambda Chi 

Alpha are presented to the new zeta members. 

After a few words about proper badge 

etiquette, he lists the following information: 

Frat flower, dark blue violet, faith. 

The National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry 

22 


Frat. tree, olive, peace. 

Frat fruit, wild grape, charity. 

Frat. vegetable, potato, benevolence. 

This section of the Opening a Zeta Ritual is 

original and unique to our Fraternity. None of 

this is mentioned in the Grange Ritual. 

Yes, this is the source of the potato as a 

Fraternity symbol. The Fraternity potato has 

been problematic since its introduction. So 

much so, that Jack Mason could not find a 

place for it in our current Ritual. Where Cole 

got the notion that a potato symbolizes 

benevolence is unknown. There are references 

to the potato as a magical, healing, or 

reproductive symbol. As far as can be 

determined, it has no relationship to 

benevolence. A more likely interpretation 

would be abundance. This is because it is 

widely cultivated, not too difficult to grow, and 

many people depend on the potato for a 

significant part of their diet. 

This article will conclude next month with a 

comparative analysis of the Cole and Grange 

Initiation Rituals. Was the earliest known 

Lambda Chi Alpha Initiation Ritual influenced 

by the Grange Ritual? Stay tuned for the 

answer in next month’s Cross & Crescent 

magazine. 

Better known as the Grange, The Patrons of Husbandry was founded in 1867 by seven farmers. The first Grange was Potomic Grange #1 still located in 

Washington, D.C. The Grange is unique among adult fraternal organizations in its equal treatment of women, teenagers, and men. On the state and national 

levels, the Grange is a political force that advocates policies that aid the farm community. 

The birth of the Cooperative Extension Service, Rural Free Delivery, and the Farm Credit system were largely the result of the Grange lobby. 

The Grange is nonpartisan and welcomes anyone of good character to its membership. As with most adult fraternal groups, the Grange is struggling to maintain 

its members. Reaching its peak of over 1,000,000 members in 1890, today’s Grange has a membership of about 200,000 scattered over 40 states. 

Wikipedia, May 9, 2010

Meet the New ELCs 

FEATURE 

Seven brothers join the International Headquarters as 

educational leadership consultants. 

Bobby Collins 

Bobby Collins is from Flemington, New 

Jersey native attended the University 

of Maine where he received a degree 

in Political Science. His former offices 

at Beta Zeta are High Alpha and High 

Kappa. At the University of Maine he was 

a member of the Maine Outing Club and 

Habitat UMaine (A branch off of Habitat 

for Humanity of the Greater Bangor area). 

When asked why he wanted to 

be an ELC, Collins says he wanted to be an ELC because of 

how much Lambda Chi Alpha has meant to him in his four 

years as an undergraduate. “After working so hard to improve 

my chapter I decided it would be a great experience to go on 

and help other chapters out as well. I cannot think of a more 

rewarding job than being able to travel around North America 

and assist other chapters while meeting brothers in the process.” 

[edit] 

Chase Simpson 

Chase Simpson is a resident of Cordova, 

TN. He attended the University of 

Memphis majoring in Organizational 

Leadership, and a Minor in Management. 

Positions that he has held in the fraternity 

include High Alpha, High Beta, High 

Epsilon, and House Manager. His various 

accomplishments include: Local Chapter 

earned Chapter of the Year 2010, Greek 


23 


By Josh Birchfield (Colorado State-Pueblo) 

Under the guidance of the director of chapter services, Lambda Chi Alpha maintains a team of educational leadership consultants. 

As one of the most valuable services offered by the General Fraternity, the ELCs provide professional analysis and assistance for each 

chapter, usually twice annually, with emphasis on chapter operations, brotherhood, or special problems. 

Well trained in the components of a chapter, ELCs bear a deep understanding and appreciation for Lambda Chi Alpha’s ritualistic 

teachings and principles. The ELCs also work with the chapter officers in evaluating their duties, analyzing current problems, and 

developing pragmatic programs suited to each chapter’s special situation. Traveling throughout North America, ELCs have an earnest 

desire to support and inspire chapters to reach their full potential. 

The following are the seven new ELCs for the 2010-2011 school year. 

Man of the Year 2010, Mr. University of Memphis 2009, Executive 

Director for Up ‘til Dawn, Carson’s Leadership Circle, Omicron Delta 

Kappa Honor Society, and Order of Omega Leadership Society. 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he told us that an active 

alumni, who has recently passed away, encouraged him to apply last 

year. “After finishing my term as Alpha, I figured I was headed on to 

start a life outside the fraternity. I quickly realized my time was not 

done with Lambda Chi Alpha. Helping to utilize brothers strengths 

to better a chapter is what pushed me to apply. After realizing the 

impact the fraternity has had and continues to have on me, I realized 

I was not done serving this brotherhood in a larger capacity!” 

Nathan Hooven 

Nathan Hooven was raised in ‘the Four 

Corners’ in Farmington, New Mexico. 

He is a 2008 graduate of New Mexico 

State University where he received a 

BS in Biology and BA in Chemistry 

as a stepping stone into medical or 

dental school. He says that over his 3 

years with the Fraternity, he saw the 

chapter grow by 100% in membership. 

He was astounded, and felt blessed to 

be a part of something so awesome. 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said he looks forward to 

being a part of headquarters, and giving back to the fraternity. “I have 

been out of the fraternity for a year and I miss it dearly. I look forward 

to traveling and seeing the different chapters across the nation and 

Canada and hope that I can be a service to the chapters that I visit.”

Survey Winners 

Since 2006-2007 academic year, the Office of Administration has conducted FEATURE an assessment project to measure the efficacy of Lambda Chi Alpha’s 

educational programming at both the chapter and individual level. This past year, to encourage participation, incentives were offered at both the 

individual and chapter level, resulting in almost a 20 percent increase in participation. The chapter incentive was a free General Assembly Initiation for 

the highest completion percentage, and individual associate members and brothers were randomly selected to win 8GB iPod nanos. Below, you will see 

the chapters and brothers who were rewarded for their outstanding participation in this assessment project: 

Associate Survey GA Winners 

(100% participation) 

* Ball State (Iota-Alpha) 

* Georgetown 

(Kappa-Omega) 

* Missouri S&T 

(Alpha-Delta) 

* Simpson (Theta-Lambda) 

Aaron Fiesler 

Aaron Fiesler is a former resident of 

from Bowling Green, Missouri. He 

attended Culver-Stockton College for 

four years and graduated with a degree 

in Finance. He joined Lambda Chi 

Alpha his freshman year and later was 

elected to High Tau. He was elected 

High Alpha his sophomore year. He 

has held presidency in the positions 

of IFC, and Student Government. 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said because 

Lambda Chi Alpha has given him so much over the years 

that he wants to teach other brothers what he’s learned. 

Aaron Gomeztrejo 

Aaron Gomeztrejo is originally from 

southern California. He is a graduate 

of the University of California in San 

Diego with a Bachelor of Science in 

Psychology. He says that highlights 

of his college career were serving as 

President of Pi-Beta chapter of LCA, 

and winning the “Brother of the Year”. 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said the road that led 

to him to becoming an ELC was paved with curiosity. “I have always 

wanted to travel around the United States, and working for Lambda 

Chi Alpha has been a regular occurrence throughout my college career. 

I was curious enough to ask a few ELCs about the position and they 

were nice enough to answer my questions and encourage me. I feel 

very blessed to have this opportunity and I can’t wait to begin!” 

Justin Fisher 

Justin Fisher is an adoptee from South 

Korea who was raised in Westminster, 

MD; a small town 40 minutes northwest 

of Baltimore. He went to the University 

of North Carolina at Greensboro, 

and graduated in 2010 with a B.S. in 

Marketing. He joined Lambda Chi Alpha’s 

Phi Theta Zeta in the spring of 

Associate Survey 

(90% - 99% participation) 

* Bradley (Kappa-Upsilon) 

* Georgia Tech (Beta-Kappa) 

* Iowa (Iota-Chi) 

* Kansas State (Gamma-Xi) 

* Lycoming (Iota-Beta) 

* Memphis (Zeta-Theta) 

* Mercer (Zeta-Omega) 


24 

Initiate Survey GA Winners (100% 

participation) 

* Florida Tech (Beta-Nu) 

* Franklin (Kappa-Gamma) 

* George Washington 

(Delta-Xi) 

* Ohio State (Gamma-Tau) 

2006, during which time he held the offices of High Tau, High Alpha 

and High Kappa. While in school, he was also involved with the 

Student Government, the Dean of Students Office, IFC, and worked 

in the student union. Justin enjoys basketball, golf, and tennis 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said he became 

interested in the position after one of his ELCs got him interested 

in the Fraternity’s national operations. He says that he looks forward 

to working with different chapters and meeting brothers from 

across the country, being able to mentor younger brothers and 

help them along their journey, as well as looking foreword to his 

own opportunity to grow and learn about Lambda Chi Alpha. 

Patrick Vaughn 

Patrick Vaughan is from Cleveland, 

Oklahoma, and is a recent graduate 

of Northeastern State University with 

a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and 

tourism management. During his 

time at NSU, he held the offices of 

social chairman and president. Patrick 

was also involved in Rookie Bridge 

Camp, Northeastern Activities Board, 

Northeastern Student Government 

Association, Colleges Strategies, and 

Student Homecoming Week Committee. He was also a member of 

the President’s Leadership Class, Rho Theta Sigma Honors Society, 

Delta Mu Delta Business Honors Society, Outstanding Greek 

Freshman, Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities 

and Colleges, Outstanding Greek President, and Top 5 Greek 

Males during his time at NSU. Most recently he was named the 

Most Outstanding Senior for the Class of 2010 at Northeastern. 

When asked why he wanted to be an ELC, he said because he has 

lived and breathed Lambda Chi Alpha for the last five years, and 

sees great opportunity in continuing to be an active part of the 

organization that helped make him who he is today. Patrick said, 

“I also truly enjoy helping students in their collegiate experience, 

and have had a great time being a mentor to my current chapter, 

and hope to do the same for all the chapters that I will encounter.” 

He also hopes this experience will help him in his future endeavors 

of working in higher education at the collegiate level. 


Initiate Survey 

(80% - 99% participation) 

* Kettering - A 

(Lambda-Epsilon A) 

* Missouri S&T 

(Alpha-Delta) 

* Simpson (Theta-Lambda) 

* Valparaiso (Iota-Sigma) 

* Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)

FEATURE 

REGISTER NOW 

w w w . l a m b d a c h i . o r g / g a 2 0 1 0

Chapter News - Cross and Crescent

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?