Sigma Phi Epsilon - Oregon State University

InvestIng In OregOn AlphA's Future S igma Phi Epsilon is dedicated to finding and producing bal- anced men of character. is is exactly what Rodger Bloedel '62, a football player from Milwaukie High School in Oregon, saw in the fraternity when he joined the Ore- gon Alpha Chapter. "e house to me is just so special because of the positive atmosphere it provided and the friends that I made and still have today," Rodger shared. His lifetime friend, Gary Larson '60, was already a member so Rodger knew they were quality guys. Rodger's memories from the house included, "e rook skip, intramural sports, pinning and engagement serenades, playing cards aer dinner in the living room, and sitting in the study room just talking. We had a lot of great experi- ences together," he said. Aer graduating from OSU, Rodger married his grade school and high school sweetheart, Bette Aldrich Bloedel '62, who was President of Alpha Chi Omega. Early in their marriage both were teachers—Rodger in Industrial Arts and Bette in Home Economics. Later, as business partners, Rog and Bette formed Bloedel Construction Company to build homes in the Willamette Valley, condos at the Oregon coast, and beautiful rental homes at Sunriver. Rodger also gave back over the years as he maintained and repaired things at the chapter house and served as a board member for Oregon Alpha. Sadly, Bette passed away unexpectedly in 2014, following a courageous battle with cancer. Currently semi-retired, Rodger keeps busy building customized furniture. eir children, Lisa and Ryan, continue the family business. When it came time to think about supporting e Second Century Campaign: Investing in Oregon Alpha's Future, Rodger didn't hesitate. e chapter has meant a great deal to him and he believes in what the SigEps can continue to do for future generations. "I've always believed college isn't just about grades, but making friends and learning about life," said Rodger. e chapter depends on alumni for continued support and growth to open the same doors of opportunities for quality young men. Rodger stated, "Success is what you can do for others. is is a chance to give back to Sigma Phi Epsilon for what it has done for us," Rodger's contribution is in honor of his late wife of 52 years, who encouraged yearly class reunions aer college. "She helped keep us together as SigEps," said Rodger. "It would be a great tribute if a part of the project could be named aer Bette Bloedel, a very special Alpha Chi and Sigma Phi Epsilon Sweetheart." You can get in touch with Rodger at rbloedel@msn.com. A TREASURED SIGEP FAMILY LEADING A NEW ERA Oregon Alpha Prepares for 100-Year Anniversary Celebration A s of January, I have assumed the role of Oregon Alpha's chapter president. Since meeting some of you at the November alumni gathering at McMenamins, I have gained a wider perspective on our chapter, my role, and what the commitment of my fellow executive officers will entail. Oregon Alpha is a special place. We have an established history of leadership, ac- ademic excellence, and respect for each other and guests. As part of our 100-year celebration, exciting renovation plans to the chapter house have been introduced. ese efforts to renovate and update the chapter house will help sustain Oregon Alpha's ability to recruit and produce the best men, upholding our scholarly pur- suits far into the future. I want to thank you all for your time, efforts, and financial support to solidify the future of this project and continue Oregon Alpha's status as a leading house. It means a lot not only to me and my fellow undergraduates, but to the next generation of Oregon Alphas. Our 100th year begins shortly. We hope to see you all soon! Fraternally, Michael Kiever '19 President (503) 593-8773 kieverm@oregonstate.edu Oregon Alpha proudly receives its seventh consecutive Buchanan Cup at the 55th National Conclave in Orlando, Fla. is is awarded to only the top 10% of chapters, and now with 24 cups in total, Oregon Alpha has more than any other chapter in the nation. Rodger Bloedel '62 Makes Major Challenge Match Contribution in Honor of Wife and SigEp Sweetheart, Bette Aldrich Bloedel Brothers Austin Gernhart '19, Alex Castaneda '18, Max Oppenheimer '19, and Nate Christensen '19 celebrate winning Tri Delta's Delta Dunk philanthropy basketball tournament. SigEps get muddy for a cause during SAE's annual tug-o- war philanthropy event.

• Cover