Gamma Phi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at the University of Oklahoma
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/210708
Gamma Phi Chapter of B e ta T h e ta P i , N o r m a n , O k l a h o m a BQP Wooglin on Chautauqua The Beta house at OU has stood the test of time for Gamma Phi. It's a symbol of our fraternity and our brotherhood. House Corporation Explores Chapter's Needs Vision Set to Modernize House T improvements, the kitchen and dining hall need to be reconfigured to meet the size requirements of the chapter. he house at 800 Chautauqua is one of the most recognizable Beta fraternity houses in the country. Having no identification on the outside, everyone on the Norman campus knows it is the Beta House. Our alumni built a landmark building back in 1928, and their leadership is what propelled Beta to the top of all fraternities at the University of Oklahoma. Gamma Phi Largest Beta Chapter in Country Our chapter is the largest Beta chapter in the country, and recently turned 110 years old. With our ever-growing numbers, expanding the facility to accommodate our members is a topic often discussed by the House Corporation. The house has served us well, but it is now time to examine how this 85-year-old structure is meeting the needs of Gamma Phi. Looking Toward the Future The Corporation has started discussions of what needs to be done to improve the house while maintaining its architectural integrity and character. These discussions are centered on creating a comfortable living environment that advances the social aspects of a fraternity, while providing ample space to achieve the academic goals of the chapter. The Corporation's vision Fall 2013 Quality Study Space a Priority Paul Bevilacqua '85, his wife, Anne, Bryan Lansford '85, Pam Cavitt, and Zach Allen '85 enjoy a day at the Beta house for a pre-game tailgate. is for the Beta House to once again take its place as the flagship facility at the University of Oklahoma. Read on for other areas of discussion. Dining Hall, Kitchen Need of Expansion Many alumni will remember coming to the Beta House as pledges for formal meals with members. That tradition no longer exists because the dining hall will only accommodate about 70 people for a sit-down meal, and today there are consistently pledge classes of more than 50. As the university has grown, so has the popularity of being in fraternities. Among other necessary Beta has come first in grades 64 times six times — more than any other fraternity—and the facility should support this great accomplishment. Another one of the renovation goals would be to create study rooms and a study hall that will reflect the importance of academics within the Beta House. Cement Beta's Place as OU's Preeminent Fraternity The House Corporation recognizes it is time to invest in the Beta House in order to compete with the other living options in Norman. We want members to be proud of the house and feel that it is a privilege to live there. The Corporation will keep you informed of any plans as they develop. We all believe Beta is the best fraternity and our traditions are unrivaled. It is now time to think big and restore the house at 800 Chautauqua to the undisputed number-one fraternity house. Yours in _kai_, Robert S. Beall '80 (817) 946-2799 / rsbeall@aol.com In This Issue: Alumni Spotlights - 2 • Gamma Phi Actives Inspired - 3 • Welcome, New Members - 3