Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Tau Delta at Butler University
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Beta Zeta Foundation of delta tau delta 4000 W. 106th st., suite 125-337 carmel, in 46032 Address Service Requested DTD Beta Zeta shelter the W h e n r u s s e l l nichols '02 first came to Butler University, he didn't find a fraternity that he fit with. Some of the fraternities had individual strengths, but none had the whole experience that he wanted. That's when he heard about a group gathering in Ross Hall to create a new organization that was different from the rest, which eventually became the recolonization of the Beta Zeta Chapter. Russell shared that, to him, brotherhood is a special connection that underlies all other connections. "It creates a bond that allows you to challenge and learn from each other in a protected way." Over the years he has learned many things from his brothers. "Working with people in large groups with diverse backgrounds and points of view is one the most valuable things I learned in Beta Zeta. My membership also helped me realize that I need to continuously take my experiences and improve from them." Over the years, Russell has remained connected to the chapter in different capacities. Since becoming treasurer of the Beta Zeta House Corporation, he has been able to meet and reconnect with many Delt leaders and members. He has also been involved with the mentor program with the undergraduate chapter. "It has been great to work with my mentee. Not only do I try to provide experience and advice for him, but it has helped me to reflect on my experiences and learn from them for my own enrichment." He encourages other alumni to get involved with the undergraduate chapter and remember the Charge. "Remember those who follow and smooth the road for the next generation. One of the best ways that anyone can do this is to support the local chapter. Whether it is time, talent, treasure, or all three, we all have something we can contribute." Russell works for Eli Lilly and Company in U.S. Health Outcomes. He and his wife, Courtney, live in Carmel, Indiana, and have a 21-month-old son named Blake. "Delt not only taught me a lot during my years at Butler, but has continued to challenge me and help me grow through my time as an alumnus. I hope that others can help provide this opportunity for young men and hopefully have the same experience as I have." sMoothing the road For those Who FolloW Russell Nichols '02 on Why He Stays Involved "I still remember the days we spent writing all the letters to the brothers before the first reunion," he said. "Compiling the information, putting the letters together, addressing the envelopes—if I wasn't retired I couldn't have done it." The committee successfully found 72 brothers, discovered 15 had died, and were unable to locate the last nine. Of those contacted, 42 attended the first reunion on the weekend of October 14, 1994. "All of our hard work was worth it," Walt said. "We enjoyed a three-day, fun-filled weekend in Indianapolis. After all those years apart, the Delt brotherhood was still alive." Each year since, the brothers have a small reunion at Homecoming, and every five years they hold a larger celebration. Additionally, they will cheer on the Bulldogs at basketball games and get together each summer at Lake Barkley, Ky. "Just think, all this happiness is the result of brother Joe's suggestion in 1993 when we visited," he said. "Each gathering is like we were all together in college yesterday." Walt and Rita live in Granger, Ind., and can be reached at walt.rita59@sbcglobal.net. A Day at a Time (Continued from page 3) FriDAY, oCToBer 7 7-10 p.m. Alumni Cocktail event Please join us at the Shelter to celebrate the completion of our capital campaign and see how your donations and support impacted the Chapter. 7:30 p.m. House Corporation scholarship award ceremony 8 p.m. Annual House Corporation meeting (optional) SATUrDAY, oCToBer 8 1 p.m. homecoming Butler Bulldogs vs. Marist College Red Foxes SAvE the DATE