Kappa Alpha Theta - University of Missouri

10.75" K A P P A A L P H A T H E T A A T T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F M I S S O U R I THE THETA UPDATE F A L L 2 0 2 2 The home of Mizzou Theta in 1922. The beloved House of Alpha Mu today. A lpha Mu lived in six rented houses before finding its permanent homesite at 603 Kentucky. In 1922, a three-story, red brick, colonial- style building with dormers and white and green trim was erected to house 24 women and a chaperone. The House's initial address was 705 Kentucky; however, in 1960, it was renumbered to 603. The chapter had outgrown the House by 1937, and plans were made to raze the building and rebuild on the same site. The House was vacated in January 1939, and by September 1, the new House was ready for occupancy. Similar to the 1922 structure, this House was a three-story, red brick, Georgian colonial with white and green trim. Changes included windows versus dormers on the third floor, a two-story front portico supported by four white columns, a walled garden, and an outdoor fireplace. Occupancy nearly doubled, housing 42 women and a housekeeper. Theta continued to grow. In 1966, the construction of a four-story wing provided additional dining space and rooms for 20 women, increasing capacity to 68. The backyard and patio were replaced with a widened driveway, parking lot, and spotlighted courtyard. The colonial style of the main floor and basement dining room was replaced with Jeffersonian-period decor. For the next several decades, attention to 603 Kentucky focused on ensuring the interior style remained fresh, systems were efficient, and the infrastructure could support the changing needs of its residents. Extensive makeovers were performed in 1979 and 1999, with smaller specific- room renovations in 1981, 1989, 1990, and 1999. In-room telephone outlets, internet access, and a buffet service line were installed. Larger renovations in the 1990s included the addition of air conditioning in part of the facility, a new kitchen, and renovated facility director's quarters. Plumbing and electrical systems were consistently updated. The front porch received new columns. A capital campaign in 2003 funded additional renovations in the library, hunting room, foyer, living room, and morning room as well as new study and laundry rooms. A fire sprinkler was also installed. Room 55/99 was outfitted with the necessary technology to serve as a media space. Membership continued to outpace capacity. Despite the 1966 "new" addition, by 1979, the House could no longer accommodate its full membership. The 2015 capital campaign provided the necessary funds to help meet this challenge—bedrooms, work areas, storage space, and a patio were added; the kitchen was enlarged; and the interior was fully redecorated. As it stands, the House can comfortably accommodate 99 women. Since Alpha Mu's move to Kentucky Boulevard 100 years ago, it is obvious from the great attention, care, and support of its members and alumnae alike that these buildings are not just Houses, but homes. Loyally in Theta, Mary Dee Rychnovsky '85 President, Alpha Mu Facility Corporation Board thetafcb@gmail.com ALPHA MU CELEBRATES 100 YEARS ON KENTUCKY BOULEVARD A Century of Renovations, Remodels, and Rebuilds

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