Beta Theta Pi - University of Oklahoma

G a m m a P h i C h a P t e r o f B e t a t h e t a P i , N o r m a N , o k l a h o m a In ThIs Issue: Alumnus Spotlight - 2 • Welcome, New Members - 2-3 • Success for Gamma Phi - 3 BQP WooGliN oN Chautauqua SPriNG 2016 T his has been quite the momentous year for Gamma Phi. It began with 91 members taking residency in the new Beta house, following the completion of the $11 million renovation and expansion project, and a record-setting $10.2 million capital campaign. The project is essentially complete, save for some punch list tweaks and ongoing additions of furnishing and appointments, such as rugs, wall hangings, and the like. We're also excitedly awaiting next month's expected return of our treasured Steinway baby grand piano, which the chapter acquired in 1918. Since last fall, it's been at Steinway's factory in New York for a full restoration. While 98 years old, it will be in a new condition. The purpose of this historic project was to create a facility that will facilitate, if not ensure, Gamma Phi's place as the premier fraternity at OU in the 21st century. If this year is any indication of future success, we are off to a great start. The chapter began the fall with a tremendously successful recruitment, starting with 63 new members. Of those, 52 were initiated in February, and we have seven Neophytes. Having won grades in fall 2015, the chapter has now won grades five times out of the last seven semesters. In April, Beta won the 2016 President's Trophy (awarded annually to OU's most outstanding fraternity) for the second time in the last three years. Did you visit the Beta house during a home football game last fall? If not, you really need to do so. At each home game, the chapter hosts a tailgate event for all alumni, family, and friends. At the new house, these events have ratcheted up on a grand scale and are—no exaggeration—the best tailgating destination on campus. Looking ahead, the chapter anticipates 88 in-house members this fall. We are blessed with another outstanding officer board, including Chapter President Reed Prado '13, and another outstanding recruitment team, led by Recruitment Chairman Brett Matthews '14. In August, Beta Theta Pi will hold its 177th General Convention in Oklahoma City. That will be an exciting and historic opportunity for Gamma Phi, allowing us to showcase our Knox-winning chapter and a chapter house that is second to none in the nation. Finally, we will soon finalize our capital campaign donor wall, which will permanently adorn the dining room. We still welcome and need more donors, if you've yet to add your name to the list. Thanks for your support of Gamma Phi! Yours in _kai_, Zach Allen '85 House Corporation President Gamma Phi Thrives aT OU wiTh alUmni sUPPOrT and a sTrOnG acTive chaPTer Beta Theta Pi was presented with the 2016 President's Trophy.

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