Pi Kappa Alpha - University of Texas

The Beta Mu Review W e are pleased to be able to highlight the committed alumni who were honored at the Beta Mu Legends Alumni Awards on November 23. These exceptional individuals have long supported the brotherhood, and we owe each of them a debt of gratitude. We're grateful to the chapter for co-hosting and co-producing this memorable event. More than 100 alumni and family members joined the fun at the alumni tailgate, which preceded the Kentucky football game. During the tailgate, Bert Dement '66 accepted the award for distinguished leadership on behalf of John Scofield '73. The Founders Award was given to the late Brent Bousquet '84 and was accepted by John Ward '85. Finally, Dr. Jay Messer '08 received the Under 40 Achievement Award. Congratulations to these winners for their many accomplishments and thank you for your loyalty to Pike. Alumni Receive Beta Mu Legends Awards RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE Col. Robert Milstead '48 and his sons. Father/son duo Jay Messer '70 and Dr. Jay Messer '08 celebrate younger Jay's Under 40 Achievement Award. Chapter Eternal Robert E. Milstead '48, a proud Beta Mu brother, passed away on December 6, 2024, at the age of 96. A true embodiment of leadership, service and brotherhood, Robert's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his country, community and family. A 1950 graduate, Robert served as president of Pi Kappa Alpha during his undergraduate years and was active in campus life as a member of Silver Spurs, Delta Sigma Pi and the student assembly. His leadership qualities and academic excellence were evident early, and he was named a UT Goodfellow for his contributions to the university community. After college, Robert began a distinguished 24-year career in the U.S. Air Force, serving as a command pilot with more than 5,500 flying hours. He completed tours in England, Taiwan, Vietnam and at the Pentagon, earning numerous awards, including the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. Following his military service, he continued to lead—this time in the civic and banking spheres of Abilene, Texas—serving as a bank executive and president of several civic organizations, including the United Way and Abilene Philharmonic Association. Robert remained a lifelong supporter of The University of Texas and the PIKE brotherhood. He is survived by his beloved wife of 74 years, Jane, their two sons Lt. General Robert E. Milstead, Jr. (USMC, Retd. and University of Houston PIKE) and Randall Milstead (Beta Mu), seven grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Thanks to Todd Hasie '81 and Ken Womack '81 for leading the spring Alumni Career Advisory Session in April, speaking to 20 finance majors about careers in wealth management and investment banking. Our spring Mom's Weekend was a blast in April. Seventy-five moms joined their sons in Austin for Friday dinner at the Pike House and a Saturday Lake Austin cruise.

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