Delta Kappa Epsilon - Wesleyan University

The Deke Newsletter GAMMA PHI CHAPTER AT WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY | WINTER 2020 SECURING THE FUTURE OF GAMMA PHI THE SESQUICENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN W e postponed publishing this newsletter in the hopes there would be a Connecticut Supreme Court decision by this time. They heard the case on May 1. As of this writing there has been no decision handed down, and therefore, we are still in a holding pattern. Gamma Phi Sees Successes on and off the Field One benefit of delaying the newsletter is that we're able to share and revel in the Little Three Championship won by the Wesleyan Cardinal football team with their victory over Williams at Homecoming. Go Cards! A number of undergraduates played key roles in this exciting (for us not Williams) overtime victory. And while the Little Three athletic success is great, I also want to make sure we recognize the smart guys in the brotherhood. There were four—yes four—undergraduate brothers who earned Phi Beta Kappa honors this past May. I don't believe any other organization on campus had almost 10% of their membership receive this distinguished honor. A true cornucopia of athletic and academic talent in the DKE undergraduate brotherhood. Renovation Plans Approved and Ready Since the last newsletter, we have tried to engage the administration in dialogue through members of the Board of Trustees, significant Wesleyan alumni, and even a well-respected Trustee Emerita specifically designated to work with us. In all cases, President Roth has steadfastly refused to engage. We continue to propose a solution that acquiesces to substantially all of the administration's demands and still no engagement. It is very frustrating for us. Even with that as a backdrop, we continue to make significant progress on the things we can control. The renovation planning is aggressively moving forward. The proposed floor plans (creating suite-style living arrangements with 3-4 roommates sharing their own bathroom) are complete and have been on display at the house since May. The construction documents were completed in December and are ready to be put out to bid. To get to this stage, exploratory demolition has been completed for the structural engineers to ensure the proposed changes can be feasibly done (they can!). Absent a settlement with the administration, however, we believe the most prudent path is to wait for the Supreme Court ruling before we begin to spend any significant money on the actual renovation itself. We Can't Do This Without You Finally, I want to personally thank Frank Sica '73 for his unwavering support for Gamma Phi. While there are a number of alumni who deserve praise, Frank's steadfast commitment has enabled us to keep DKE alive and thriving within the Wesleyan community. Please read his story on page 3. In the Bonds, Gary D. Breitbord '79 President, Kent Literary Club (508) 740-9310 gbreitbo@aol.com DKE Perseveres While Supreme Court Ruling Remains at Standstill A new year is upon us—a joyful time of fresh beginnings. And, for many of us, the hustle and bustle has finally calmed. We've spent time decorating our homes, traveling to be with family or friends, and savoring our favorite dishes. We have also reflected on our many blessings. As you will see from the KLC report and excellent summary from the chapter membership, 2019 gave DKE many things to be thankful for. I know I am especially thankful for our alumni, for your ongoing support and generous contributions. It makes me wonder: what blessings will 2020 bring? This year I ask you to support the organization that undoubtedly had an impact on the man you became. Your generosity allows us to prepare for the renovation our home needs to comply with the upcoming co-habitation plan. While we are judiciously waiting for affirmative outcome of the Supreme Court ruling before breaking ground, every dollar raised now will ready us to take instant action in the future. 2020 is a year of promise for Gamma Phi, and I hope that your interest in DKE will remain. Please make your donation today by using the enclosed pledge form and envelope. It has been a long road for us all, but our brotherhood will persevere with your help. In the Bonds, John Hoder '73 Campaign Chairman (401) 573-2246 john.hoder@yahoo.com YOU CAN HELP DKE PROSPER IN 2020 Sesquicentennial Campaign Continues—You Are Needed

• Cover