Lambda Chi Alpha - University of Illinois

Chi Zetagram 2 Our Chapter House Continues to Improve T hose attending the huge dedication ceremonies last September were treated to what we think is the best fraternity house at Illinois, maybe anywhere, but it just keeps getting better! Shortly after the gathering we were excited to install the spectacular carved fireplace mantel and wood paneling, including the custom carved Cross & Crescent symbols. Brother Brad Dickson'74 X1009 also donated additional funds to allow installation of the much-needed curtain panels to soften the space in our Formal Study, which is used constantly by members for study. Take a look at the photos and we're sure you'll agree, it was worth the wait! We were then pleased to hang the large (and heavy!) cast bronze plaque as a permanent thanks to our many donors who made this all possible. Additionally, our Heritage Collection continues to grow, with priceless donations from John Schuldt '64 X254 (original brass Anubus plaque), Dick Grant '52 X541 (needlepoint Coat of Arms to his father), and Russ Andersen '71 X955 (jeweled badge pins)—thank you! Remember, if you have something special from our past we'd love to add it to the permanent collection on display. Thanks to the great generosity of High Pi Steve Parsons ΦΒ341, the brothers now have a 75-inch LED display in the dining hall. Used for chapter meeting presentations, our recent Board of Directors meeting, and even Sunday football, it makes a great addition to the facility. Thank you, Brother Parsons! We also took advantage of recent donations to get started on much- needed landscaping around the front of the house. Although more is coming this spring, the lawn is now stable and looking good around the front entry. The porch is also spruced up with a new bench made from the original, well-worn 1927 limestone front door threshold, thanks to a gift by Rick Nunemaker '67 X882. As our undergraduate brothers get settled, we are working with them to best utilize the spaces to support the chapter. At a recent Board of Directors meeting, the chapter leadership requested to convert the basement study room into an expanded exercise facility because members instead prefer to use the expansive dining room for study. The conversion was approved and the men got to work. They purchased new equipment (more to come) and did a great job. But we're not done yet! This summer we plan to complete the formal woodwork and furnishings in the two smaller libraries (full finish and furnishings in the Library), thanks to a generous donation (furnishings for the Alumni Room) by Brothers Jeff Wandell '62 X785 and Ken Baker '78 X1089. We hope to generate new donations to complete the woodwork and display cases in the alumni room—this is still your chance to help! So remember, you can still make a difference! It's not too late to join your brothers in supporting this worthy, and impressive, cause. And donations to complete the Alumni Room study space are tax-deductible! ank You, Betty Smykal Wife of Late Chi Zeta Alumnus Makes $50,000 Donation Toward Landscaping Projects W e are very pleased to announce the recent gift of $50,000 by Betty Smykal, wife of our late brother, Ralph Smykal '47 X575. This generous donation is in memory of her beloved husband and his father, also a Chi Zeta member, Gen. Richard "Dick" Smykal '18 X77. It will be used to complete the full landscaping plan for our new home, including trees, hedges, and other planting areas around the entire structure; reinstallation of the Brotherhood Walk pavers honoring past donors, in a path connecting the front steps to the basketball court; and additional landscape lighting along the front walk. A bronze plaque honoring this gift will further enhance what will surely be the most spectacular fraternity setting on campus. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our sister, Betty! Landscaping additions outside the chapter house. New landscaping along the side of the house. Betty Smykal, wife of Ralph Smykal '47 X575.

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