Alpha Gamma Rho - University of Minnesota

We Need Your Recruitment Recommendations! Who Should Be Next? Y ou can help with recruitment any time of year by sending us potential new members. Please send their name, age/year, major, interests, and contact information to one of our VNRs of recruitment: Brady Gille #1862 gille692@umn.edu (920) 619-1082 Gus Hasbargen #1859 hasba051@umn.edu (701) 640-9448 I nduction into the Alpha Gamma Rho Hall of Fame is the highest recognition given by AGR— and one that Neil Fruechte #796 found to be "a real honor and totally unexpected." Neil received the news earlier this spring while driving. "I had to stop the car and listen again to the caller because it was so surprising." Bill Manwarren #944, one of the alumni who nominated Neil for his years of service (both to Lambda and the national fraternity), wasn't surprised at all. "Though we are a decade apart in age, I was honored to meet and work with Neil on many AGR activities," he said. "I am very proud of Neil and glad to call him a brother." Neil came to the University of Minnesota from a farm near Caledonia, Minnesota, a small town in southern Minnesota. Neil and his roommate, the late Dave Keefe #798 (a hometown friend), were invited to dinner at the Lambda chapter house by the late Bob Leary #759 (also from Caledonia). Both freshmen liked the idea of a shared agricultural brotherhood and quickly grew comfortable with the members of AGR. Neil thrived in the chapter house, leading as Noble Ruler his senior year. "I had the opportunity to meet and become acquainted with AGRs from all over the nation who held leadership positions in the agricultural fields." Professionally, Neil spent 23 years working in the Farm Credit System, followed by 23 years as president of a community bank in Waseca, Minnesota (where he still lives today). He served AGR nationally with several years on the the Sickle and Sheaf Board, followed by the National Board from 1988 to 1994. Neil helped reduce costs by eliminating Sickle and Sheaf, and he was among the National Board members who voted to improve the anti-hazing brotherhood program—a controversial decision at the time. "Contrary to what the naysayers said would happen, I believe AGR is stronger because of that choice." Starting in 2012, Neil led the campaign to build Lambda's new chapter house, successfully raising over $3 million. He used his banking expertise and connections to help start the project, organized a large group of campaign volunteers, and helped set up tax-deductible giving to incentivize donations. "Neil deserves our admiration for the extreme effort over a long period of time to accomplish this project," said Neil Durhman #707, who worked with him on the campaign. "Without his special knowledge and exceptional effort, AGR would not be where it is today." Historically, Neil's favorite pastimes have been hunting and fishing. He hunts much less at age 85 but still enjoys fishing with family, which he recently did in Alaska this August (one of his favorite fishing areas). Neil also enjoys seeing his fellow Lambda brothers for Founder's Day each spring; he's only missed the celebration once since graduating. "I have been fortunate to be an AGR," he said. "It has provided me with lifelong friends." To connect with Neil and congratulate him on the Hall of Fame, you can reach him at neil.fruechte@gmail.com. MORE PRAISE FOR NEIL'S INDUCTION "Neil has made a difference and achieved the highest level in all his endeavors: career, Alpha Gamma Rho, civic, and family. I have grown as a person and leader by following his example." –Bill Manwarren #944 "I was a collegiate member when Neil served as our Noble Ruler. Later, we worked together on the capital campaign. We were also business associates for seven years in the latter part of my banking career. I learned a lot about leadership from Neil in each instance." –John Campe #814 "I have been Noble Ruler, co-chairman of the building committee, and a member of the alumni board of directors. I have had firsthand experience in seeing the great contribution Neil Fruechte has given to his Lambda Chapter. "I am proud to see his name in the AGR Hall of Fame." –Neil Durhman #707 "I have accompanied Neil on innumerable fishing and hunting trips over the past 35 years, but my most impressive endeavor with him was Lambda's capital campaign. To celebrate his leadership, I joined Brother Bill Manwarren in nominating Neil for the Hall of Fame. I couldn't be happier; he is most deserving of the honor." –Albert "Stub" Nelson #629 Neil Fruechte #796 Inducted into AGR Hall of Fame EXCEPTIONAL DEVOTION TO OUR BROTHERS

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