Texas Fiji of Phi Gamma Delta at the University of Texas
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/590244
The Longhorn Fiji–The University of Texas at Austin Established 1883 TEXAS FIJI H Fall 2015 Earlier this fall, the entire Chapter pitched in for a workday to improve the grounds at Buen Retiro. This was a perfect way for our newest members to bond with more established Fijis and come to appreciate their new home. BCA Looks AheAd to An exCeptionAL YeAr At Buen retiro I am pleased to announce that Texas Fiji has completed another successful recruitment season and welcomed 53 new members. Striving for geographic diversity, we recruited top men from 16 cities and towns in five states. Everyone involved should be extremely proud. We especially appreciate the alumni who contributed almost $50,000 to the recruitment fund. This new member class complements our already outstanding Chapter. Soon after school began, the new pledge class and active members gathered for a workday to help spruce up Buen Retiro; a great way to get to know each other and give back to the house we all love. The active Chapter looks forward to its second year inside the newly constructed new addition. Buen Fiesta houses 22 additional junior brothers, as well a majority of our events, which takes significant traffic and pressure off Buen Retiro. Plans are being finalized for phase two of a much- needed remodel and facelift of Buen Retiro to start this summer. Last summer, the roof and fire escape were completed. Over the last several years, the Board of Chapter Advisors has emphasized a revamped new member orientation program and has encouraged increased focus on Fiji rituals, philanthropy, and a stronger bond throughout the Chapter. The BCA will continue to advise the Chapter in areas such as hazing, alcohol awareness, and scholarship. We are thankful for Purple Legionnaire Parker Brody PC '08 and the involvement of the new staff in assisting the cabinet and pledge educators. At the most recent BCA meeting, we were joined by Bill Martin, Mississippi State '75, Executive Director of Phi Gamma Delta International. His wisdom and experience are invaluable. Prior to our meeting, I accompanied Bill to a roundtable with key members of the Dean of Students Office. Over the last several years, the Chapter, staff, and advisors have forged an important relationship with the Dean of Students Office and the International Fraternity. It is a tough environment for fraternities in general, but I am honored to report Tau Deuteron continues to be in good standing with both organizations and the community at large. As for the Chapter efforts to strengthen communication with parents of members, voice messaging and e-mail updates/notices are distributed periodically. Alumni are encouraged to review the newsletter and utilize www.texasfiji.com for updates and important upcoming dates. Home game tailgate gatherings at Buen Retiro continue to be a success. They begin two hours before each home game (however, no tailgates before 11 a.m. games or Thanksgiving). The increase in attendance at these events is a testament to the strengthening connection between the Chapter and alumni. I hope all parents will be able to join us for Parents' Weekend November 6-7, which is also Homecoming Weekend. Texas Fiji is stronger than ever due in large part to your support. Thank you! We hope to see you back in Austin soon. GTBO, Tom Shirley PC '78 BCA President tom@tomwshirley.com Visit www.texasfiji.com for all things Texas Fiji!