Gamma Phi Beta - Southern Methodist University

Crescent Corner A Publication for Alpha Xi Alumnae and Friends by Alpha Xi Alumnae | Spring 2021 A Strong Foundation, A Stronger Future THE CAMPAIGN FOR ALPHA XI F or a sorority whose motto is "Founded on a Rock," it seems fitting that the renovations at 3030 Daniel Avenue needed to start at the very foundation. After receiving generous gifts of money and time from alumnae and friends, reviewing housing priorities, hiring structural engineers and contractors, and obtaining the necessary permits, construction finally began on the beloved Gamma Phi Beta house at SMU last May. In addition to foundation repairs throughout half the house, the functionality of two main rooms was enhanced. The bay window room is now a cozy place to study with refinished wood floors and a sitting area facing the outside garden. The dining area is in the backroom along with a lounge area. New televisions with streaming options were installed and internet services were upgraded. Ivory tile was laid in the foyer, and new gray carpet was installed in the living room and on the stairs. The living room fireplace was retiled to match the foyer. The chapter expressed a strong desire to have new front doors installed that open outward and to have a brighter, more open foyer design. To meet these requests, a new front door jamb was built to change the door swing and the new doors were ordered with large panels of Flemish glass, which let in more diffused light and also provides privacy. The lower foyer vestibule was expanded with the removal of the closets and raised ceiling. The step is now clearly defined from wall to wall with a dark wood trim and a special lighting feature. Many new fixtures were added and blended well with some original furnishings and accessories. Custom artwork featuring Gamma Phi Beta's signature pink carnations was commissioned for the foyer. What began as a plan to complete the renovations all at once has become a phased renovation. Challenges related to COVID-19, funding and other priorities made the AHC choose to complete renovations in phases. While it is tough to tell collegians that new carpet and bathrooms will have to wait, securing the structure to stand safely for another 70 years is vital. While there were so many enhancements made during this first round of significant renovations, there is still a list of updates that will be prioritized for renovations in summer 2021. To maintain and beautify 3030 Daniel, we need additional contributions to the Campaign for Alpha Xi. With this final campaign request, please consider making a gift, or continued gifts to the campaign. Our goal is to reach $500,000 by June 30, and we need every Alpha Xi to do her part. In IIKE, Becky Russell Melde '72 Affiliated House Corporation Property Manager melde@att.net R enovations Enhance and Help 3030 Daniel Avenue R enovations Enhance and Help 3030 Daniel Avenue Stay True to Its Historic Past Stay True to Its Historic Past The recent updates at Alpha Xi Chapter let more light into the house and make it even more inviting and beautiful. It's a wonderful place for our undergraduate sisters to call home!

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