Beta Theta Pi - University of Missouri

A Publication of the Zeta Phi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi The Zeta Phi Inside: Carrying on Traditions of Success 2 75 Years of Brotherhood 3 Chapter Officers 3 Welcome, New Brothers! 4 FALL 2017 A BETTER ZETA PHI Alumni Board Focuses on Improved Solutions ZETA PHI, A LIFE- CHANGING EXPERIENCE Why Matt Flanigan '84 Treasures His Time in βθπ A s noted in our prior newsletter, the chapter was on probation for the 2016-17 school year for a violation of party and alcohol regulations. Most of you have read about the tragedy that occurred at the Beta chapter at Penn State in the spring of 2017, where a young man died after consuming alcohol at a pledging activity. The combination of these events have caused Zeta Phi Chapter advisors as well as the house corporation, as landlord, to increase focus on the activities of the chapter. Starting in spring 2017, the chapter house went dry with the curtailment of alcohol in the house. In July, certain chapter officers, chapter advisors, and interested alumni met to further review policies affecting new member education. It was a very productive meeting and further steps have been taken by the chapter to bring their activities more in line with the current environment on campus and to protect the welfare of chapter members. Recently, there was an incident between an active and a new member that had nothing to do with house activities, but it happened at the chapter house during a new member ceremony. The advisors have been working hard to resolve the issue with all parties involved. These are trying times for all fraternities and the advisory team is on the job 24/7 assisting the chapter in navigating minor problems before they become major problems—thanks to Jason Swindle '93 and Bill Toalson '70. FINANCIAL MATTERS As has been the case for over 50 years of Zeta Phi, the finances of both the chapter and house corporation are in solid condition. The end of the fiscal year, June 30, showed an overall excess of revenue over expenses with the excess being used to pay down debt, which stood at $3.6 million on June 30. Our capital campaign that kicked off in 2011 continues to be a success judged by the almost 98% collection of pledges with only a small amount that is not yet due. While it is true we had some individuals who were unable to fulfill their pledges for one reason or another, in the big picture it was immaterial and a much smaller percentage than most fraternities. Our "temporary" loan is due in 2018, at which time we expect to refinance over a 15- to 20-year term. We have periodically looked at more permanent financing over the last five years. However, each time that we thought interest rates would rise, they didn't, and continuing our temporary loan with a local bank has turned out to be the best deal from a financial standpoint. In _kai_, John M. Hillhouse '69 Secretary hillhouse@drlb.net M att Flanigan '84 began his Beta Theta Pi journey primarily because of his father's long-time colleague and family friend, Harry Cornell '50. Harry encouraged Matt to attend Mizzou and join Beta Theta Pi, if he was able to, expressing that the relationships he developed and the characteristics of success he learned were outstanding and would benefit Matt in a similar way. Matt shared, "From the time I joined Beta in 1980 until this moment now, I can readily confirm that he was absolutely correct." Continued on page 3

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