Lambda Chi Alpha - University of Oklahoma

G amma-Rho Zeta has not only seen Rennie Cook, GR 1547, transform from a small- town kid to the owner of a personal development firm, but played a vital role in his transformation. "Even as awkward as I was, the men at Gamma- Rho Zeta made me feel like I not only belonged, but added value." Rennie still remembers bid day and feeling like a deer in headlights. "I was in way over my head but remember Jim Benson, GR 1464, and Sean Bauman, GR 1465, taking me under their wings early on, then Jeff Morton, GR 1508, Nathan Young, GR 1517, and others helping me sort my way through those initial overwhelming first few months." The relationships Rennie has made from Lambda Chi Alpha supported him as an undergraduate and continue into his adult life. "Being around such talented and gifted men is very humbling and also a great opportunity to learn from some amazing people. Through my volunteer work as an alumnus, I have had the opportunity to develop relationships with several generations of Lambda Chi brothers. These men are my friends, mentors, and life advisors. Don Sherman, GR 374, the late Bill Stone, GR 593, Matt Hamilton, GR 1168, Tim Rasnic, GR 1183, Brad Lomenick, GR 1461, Sean Bauman, GR 1465, Mark Robinson, GR 1534, David Ridgeway, GR 1544, and Rodger Lalli, GR 1894, are just examples of the men I have learned from." Living in Norman has allowed Rennie to stay active with Gamma-Rho Zeta. He served as co-Chapter adviser with Rodger Lalli for three years, spent 13 years on the housing corporation and alumni scholarship committee, and served as president of the alumni association for four years. Rennie knows firsthand that the strength of Gamma-Rho Zeta comes from members caring about its success. "The Chapter House has undergone major renovations that now provide a healthy and safe environment with a sense of style that represents our Chapter in a much better way. The quality of the men and their desire to excel has stayed the same since I was a freshman." After 12 years of working as an administrator at OU, Rennie left to spend two years in the ministry as the executive senior pastor of Journey Church in Norman. In May 2013 he launched his own personal and professional training and development firm called The Triumph Team. "LCA represents the best of the University and I had a great sense of pride being associated with such a high-caliber group of men." Lambda Chi aLpha page 2 Meet Jake Pasdach, GR 2473 Hometown: Claremore, Oklahoma Major: Public relations Minor: Public affairs and administration J ake associated with Lambda Chi Alpha in fall 2011. Throughout his time at the University of Oklahoma, he has been extremely fortunate to experience countless opportunities. Jake was a member of the 2011-12 President's Leadership Class, an officer for Crimson Club, which is OU's official ambassadorial group under the office of OU President David L. Boren, and has served as a four-year executive committee member of the Campus Activities Council event, High School Leadership Conference, in which a programmed weekend prepares the up-and-coming generation on how to be leaders. He recently completed his term as the OU Interfraternity Council president in which he set the strategic vision for the thriving fraternity community of 2,600 men and 19 chapters. Lambda Chi Alpha has impacted Jake in many ways during his time at OU. "Despite the titles and leadership opportunities, the most impactful aspect of college was the time I spent with my friends and brothers. Upon entering the University of Oklahoma, I was extremely hesitant to participate in recruitment, but I believe that making the decision to join Lambda Chi was the stepping-stone to becoming who I am today. Upon graduation, I plan on attending graduate school to pursue a master of business or a master of public affairs and administration degree." "As I complete my undergraduate degree in May 2015, I will leave 904 College Avenue with lifelong friends, great memories, and confidence in my ability to impact and influence the world because of my time as a Lambda Chi." Rennie Cook, GR 1547, Proud of His LCA Experience Rennie and his wife, Stacy, have two daughters, Ainsley (6) and Evelynn (7). He stays busy completing his Ph.D., building his business, being a father, and serving his church and community. Connect with him via e-mail at rennie@triumph-team.com. Brothers prepared over 6,000 pounds of food to be sent to families statewide at the OKC Food Bank on MLK day.

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