Theta Xi - Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

"You can't be a student at Rensselaer without seeing Theta Xi's chapter house all the time," proud Alpha alumnus Gary Peterson '62 (A964) boasts. "It's an integral part of the campus and no other fraternity can say that—it'd be a shame to let it disappear." Gary looks back on his time at 1490 Sage Avenue fondly, and says, "I would need a page the size of the New York Times to list all my favorite memories." Although many of the new member traditions have changed since Gary was a freshman, he describes his pledgeship as one of the most profound experiences in shaping his life and his profession. Having pledge tests and responsibilities allowed him the opportunity to get to know himself and others on a fundamental level he never had before. "It was a difficult blend of physical and psychological pressure that was brilliant in its concept." The challenging experiences he faced helped him thrive in his profession, and says, "In any job you're inevitably subjected to psychological pressure. That pledging routine was the first time in my life I really started to understand people and see how instinctual reactions can vary." Before retiring a few years ago, Gary spent 40 years with Ingersoll-Rand/Dresser-Rand, where he worked hard and achieved success, which he believes wouldn't have been possible without the lessons learned in Theta Xi. For the last three consecutive years, Gary has made his way back to Theta Xi for alumni events and reunions. He has immensely enjoyed the ongoing social relationship Theta Xi has given him and is thrilled to maintain lifelong friendships with Bob Nilsson '63 (A984), Bill Gutheim '63 (A982), George Dabb '62 (A972), Kenny Wilson '63 (A973), Ray Rettberg '63 (A983), Frank Fischer '64 (A986), John Van Gelder '64 (A999), Pat Mahoney '64 (A1008), and countless others. Gary recognizes that the chapter house undoubtedly serves as a magnet that brings brothers, old and new, back together. "We were given a beautiful gift—now everyone should participate in this campaign. Maybe you can't participate monetarily, but ALPHA CHAPTER OF THETA XI FALL 2014 ALPHABET CAPITAL CAMPAIGN SEES PROGRESS WITH EARLY COMMITMENTS Alumni Participation Is Vital to Our Success I n just a short three months since announcing the 150 Years of Theta Xi: Building Alpha's Future Together campaign we've already seen incredible growth in signed commitments. We are extremely pleased with the response we have received from loyal alumni, not only from a monetary standpoint but also with your desire to reconnect with an organization that is still important to you. We are especially proud of the undergraduate chapter. Collectively, the actives have contributed or pledged nearly $70,000 to our campaign. Their commitment to this effort is an outstanding example of their dedication to Alpha's future. Since August we've gained more than $150,000 in new commitments, bringing the total raised to $583,654 from only 86 donors, less than 10% of our active alumni! We are so thankful for those who have since stepped forward, but now we look to the rest of our brothers for help. The campaign and rebuilding of Alpha is a once- in-a-lifetime opportunity for our members, and we want every alumnus to participate in the creation of our improved chapter house. Rally your broth- ers for a class gift, honor a loved one through a five-year pledge, or join your family to place your name on the distinguished list of donors. As we mentioned in the campaign brochure earlier this fall, our renovated home will fea- ture necessary upgrades and structural changes, making for improved public spaces, bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchen. It will also be equipped with life-safety features, such as asbestos treat- ment, sprinkler systems, and fire detection and alarm systems, protecting the live-in brothers and guests 24/7. As the campaign chairman, I am encouraged to see the response we have received so far to this very important and necessary campaign. I thank you for your support and continued interest in Alpha. Yours in the Bonds, David Fowkes '89 (A1275) Campaign Chairman P.S. A full listing of our campaign donors is on page 2—add your name by filling out the en- closed pledge card! We'd be honored to include you among these generous contributors. Gary Peterson '62 (A964) Pays It Forward at Iconic 1490 Sage Avenue (Continued on page 2)

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