Sigma Alpha Epsilon - Washington State University

T he spring semester of 2014 got off to a very fast start and we are adapting to quite a bit of change. For those of you that are not aware, several weeks ago the University announced that in order for Greek chapters to house freshman, beginning fall semester 2014, we must become a dry fraternity. The chapter has made the decision to not house freshman for the upcoming and future academic years. One of the main reasons we chose this course of action was that the chapter felt by not allowing freshmen to live in the house during their first year, it would give them a better appreciation to live in as a sophomore. Another major change that occurred happened at the National level, where the Fraternity made the decision to eliminate the pledging process. Now when the chapter extends a bid to a potential new member, they must initiate them within a 96 hour period. This was met with some unrest, but after letting the news soak in, the chapter is ready to move forward and embrace the new policy. We had some practice with our new member class 13.5. We are adapting to the changes in a positive way. We are proud to welcome 30 new members into our brotherhood this spring, including 3 legacies: Austin Harding, Brooks Bonham and Max Christman. This brings the total WABE chapter size to 119 men. I am most proud to announce that Washington Beta achieved first overall in grades among all fraternities here at WSU last semester with a GPA of 3.21. It's exciting to have come from third overall in the spring of 2013 to first in the fall of 2013. The men of Washington Beta continue to work hard and are striving to maintain their position of first in grades and in community service hours performed. Over winter break we had fiber optic wireless Internet installed in the house, which is a massive improvement over the nearly non- functioning Internet we had before. We greatly appreciate all of the alumni support that made this possible. This summer some significant changes will take place at the house. F&H has decided to replace all of the carpeting in the hallways of each floor with LVT flooring similar to what was installed last summer in the dining room. A flagpole and sign will also be installed in front of the house facing B Street, which will add more character to the property. We are also considering installing air conditioning in the chapter room, however in order to accomplish this we need the support of alumni. Your generosity would be greatly appreciated. These are just a few of the changes that will take place this summer. I hope that all of you can make it out for a football game this year to meet your brothers and see the changes made to the house. Thank you for all the support you have given Washington Beta as we continue to grow at Washington State University. If you are ever in town, my contact information is below so that I can meet you and provide a tour of the house. Fraternally, Dustin Benson '16 Eminent Archon (206) 245-5920 dusty.benson@gmail.com washington Beta Bylines washington beta Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chapter Takes Changes in A Stride Strives to be Number One in Academics and Service Brothers celebrating the Seahawks victory in Super Bowl XLVIII.

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