Beta Pi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at the University of Minnesota
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PAge 3 betA thetA Pi A fter more than 30 years of work, four books, and several appearances on Larry King Live, when George Pratt '70 thinks about what has helped him become a successful psychologist, Beta Theta Pi is at the top of his list. During his freshman year at Minnesota, George was a member of a rock and roll band invited by Chapter President Pat Fallon '68 to perform at a Beta event. Shortly after that, George decided to join the Beta Pi Chapter. "With such a large campus, I wanted to have the ability to connect with people who would become my friends and use that common energy to build a great college experience," George says. "I wanted like-minded, positive, inspirational people, and that's exactly what I found at Beta." George took advantage of the opportunities he found at Beta Pi and served as both social chairman and academic chairman. After earning two degrees from Minnesota, a bachelors in arts cum laude and a masters in psychology, George moved to California and earned his doctoral degree. There, George began his career as a clinical psychologist, and he credits his time at Beta for sparking his interest in helping others. "When I was a pledge, my big brother introduced me to a program at the YMCA called Project Motivation where you act as a big brother to someone who is disadvantaged," George says. "It opened my eyes to helping people, so that is a big reason I wanted to help people in my career. I have Beta Pi to thank for that." Today, George is a clinical and consulting psychologist with a private practice in La Jolla, California. He specializes in emotional healing and helping people achieve their goals and dreams. Rob Dyrdek, host of Ridiculousness and Fantasy Factory, is one of George's clients and considers his help to be the reason behind his accomplishments. In addition to working with Olympic athletes, Super Bowl champions, and Academy Award and Grammy winners, George has written four books, including his bestseller, Code to Joy. George believes that when you have a firm foundation, you can begin to help others, and he thanks Beta for providing the foundation and support that have led to his success. "Beta helped me live my life with values and priorities, kindness, and connection to others. I felt more inspired and positive because of the friendships I made. I am fortunate to have success, and I think it is partially because of affiliating with Beta Theta Pi and the success- oriented, great guys I found there." George lives in La Jolla, California, with his wife, Vonda, who was a flight attendant for American Airlines. His daughter, Whitney, is a photographer. In their spare time, George and Vonda enjoy golf and traveling to see friends and family. Visit his website at www. drgeorgepratt.com. George can be reached at gp@drgpratt.com. Beta Influences George Pratt '70 Alumnus Helps People Achieve Goals and Dreams Alumni Team Up To Launch Minneapolis Modern Diner W ith an idea that started from dinner party conversations, two Minnesota Betas recently teamed up to open a modern-era diner and bar in South Minneapolis that is receiving accolades as a top new restaurant in the Twin Cities. Jerry LaMere '87 and Wes Chapman '82 are part-owners of Nighthawks, which opened last May at 3753 Nicollet Ave. S. Often cooking from scratch, Nighthawks serves a variety of classic diner dishes with a fresh take, including pastrami, pancakes, hot dogs, pies, and daily dinner specials. A great time to visit is for the daily happy hour which offers a gourmet hot dog and beer for $10. Nighthawks is open for lunch and dinner daily, and brunch on weekends. On Sundays, they feature a unique and special banquet dinner. Their website is www.nighthawksmpls.com. Congrats, guys!