Cross & Crescent - Your daily source for Lambda Chi Alpha …€¦ · This is our final issue of...

Cross & Crescent

December 2014 . ISSUE 09

FROM THE EDITOR

Tad LichtenauerDirector of Communications/IT

(317) [email protected]

This is our final issue of the Cross & Crescent for 2014. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the chapters for their news submissions. I hope next year even more chapters will submit chapter news. You can submit chapter news via the Officer Portal or just send an email to [email protected].

I would also like to thank all of the alumni brothers who sent us updates about what they are doing with their careers. You can submit updates to us either through our member portal, myLCA, or again by sending an email to [email protected].

As we near the end of 2014, I’d like to personally thank a few brothers who help make sure the quality of the magazine we produce is the best it can be. Bob McLaughlin (Purdue 1963) and Jono Hren (Florida Tech 1975) volunteer their time each month proofing, fact checking and asking smart questions about each article. They work behind the scenes and deserve a lot of praise beyond what I can express here. In addition, Mike Raymond (Miami-OH 1967) provided us with several informative and educational history articles. Mike is one of our rare treasures who reminds us how important it is to remember the unique history of our great fraternity. The second to last volunteer to thank is Jon Williamson (Maryland 1965). Jon has provided more story ideas and research than you can imagine. He is a machine. The last alumnus brother to thank is Thomas “TR” Roberts (Edinboro 2009). TR is the graphics design guru behind every issue. He works tirelessly to make whatever Lambda Chi is doing better. He is a very talented and smart young man.

Finally, I’d like to personally thank three other staff members. One is our fraternity CEO Bill Farkas (Butler 1988). Bill supports the team and doesn’t micromanage. He lets us do our jobs and for that we are very grateful. The two other staff members I’d like to recognize are Kyle Jones (Montevallo 2013) and Andrew Talevich (Washington State 2011). Without these two workhorses we’d never have a finished product. It is my pleasure to work with both of them each day.

I hope you enjoy this issue and have a safe, enjoyable and relaxing holiday break with family and friends.

In ZAX and friendship,

Tad Lichtenauer Editor, Cross & Crescent Magazine

mailto:[email protected]

HeaderYOUR ONLINE SOURCE FOR ALL LAMBDA CHI ALPHA NEWSDEC. 2014 ISSUE 09

Cross & Crescent

CONTRIBUTIONSContent for consideration should be submitted by the 25th of the month (except Aug/Jan)Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity8741 Founders RdIndianapolis, IN 46268-1338(317) [email protected]/cross-crescent

1 Chapter News Chapter news, alumni news

and reports of death.

22 Fraternity News

The JTC Program wraps up for 2014 but returns next year with six

new dates.

Features

Departments

CREDITS Publisher: Bill Farkas Managing Editor: Tad Lichtenauer Assistant Editor: Andrew Talevich Kyle JonesLayout & Design: Thomas Roberts Photographer: Walt Moser Research: Jon Williamson Copy Editors: Jono Hren Bob McLaughlin Mike Raymond

12FROM MENTOR TO GAME CHANGER University of Wyoming brother campaigns fundraiser for underprivileged children to play sports

By Russell Whitaker (Wyoming)

15THE CHALLENGE TO SAVE CHRISTMAS Western Kentucky alum takes over family business and continues commitment to the value of service.

By Kyle Jones (Montevallo)

16STEAD INVESTS IN CREATING LEADERS Storied alumni Jerre Stead continues spirit of service and stewardship by donating to philanthropy school.

18STARTING UP AND LINKING IN Young alumni looks to LinkedIn and Lambda Chi network to find help with start up business.


20REMEMBERING KEVIN RUDIA Zeta-Gamma chapter brother from New Mexico State University, died Nov. 12, 2014, from sarcoma cancer. A very popular and caring brother, he served his chapter as treasurer, and the General Fraternity as a 2010 summer intern.

By Aron Jones (New Mexico State)

mailto:[email protected]

www.lambdachi.org/cross

Cross & Crescent December 20141www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter News


Chapter news, alumni news and reports of death

Baldwin Wallace (Kappa-Phi)

The chapter held an inaugural Penny War Against Hunger, collecting 577 pounds of food and raising $237.05 for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Chapter brothers participated in Greek Sing at the Olmsted Falls Performing Arts Center, winning the Most Humorous Award and placing second overall.

Bowling Green State (Phi-Mu)Anthony E. Snyder (1992) was promoted to change catalyst for Thrivent Financial, a financial services organization based in Appleton, Wis. In his new role, Snyder will be responsible for managing a network of change agents throughout the organization as Thrivent embarks on a new human capital management system in 2015. A six-year employee of Thrivent, Snyder previously served in roles coaching financial representatives and in the membership organization’s research and development areas. He also recently received his certificate in change management by PROSCI and the Change Management Learning Center.

Boston (Alpha)The chapter held its annual Date Night where brothers and their dates enjoyed a multi-course Italian dinner.

Butler (Alpha-Alpha)Frank D. Smith (1971) died Sept. 28, 2014, following an equipment accident in a nature conservation area on his tree farm in southern Decatur County, Ind. After graduating from Butler University, he moved to Decatur County, became a certified water utility consultant and created a utility construction company. He was the manager of the City of Greensburg’s upland water project to preserve water for the city’s future. He also served on the Decatur County Board of Health. He was the operator and part owner of Lake Santee Utilities until it was sold in 1991. He then became a real estate broker and an Indiana certified real estate appraiser. He was self-employed his entire life and retired a few years ago because of his health.




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Chapter News



California State-Fresno (Iota-Gamma)The colony added 26 associate members during fall recruitment.

On Sept. 6, 2014, Harry Lee, vice president of corporate contracts, pricing and supply chain for Northrop Grumman Corp., received the National Association of Asian American Professionals 100 Award at the group’s national convention in Anaheim, Calif. The award is given out annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to their profession and to the Asian community. Previous

recipients include former U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, George Takei, the Honorable Elaine L. Chao and Pepsico CEO Indra Nooyi.

Ed Palacios (1988) died November 2014.

California-Berkeley (Mu)Dr. Charles Woessner (1944) died Sept. 27, 2014. A World War II veteran, he served with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific as a quartermaster on the minesweepers USS Caution, USS ATA 196, and USS Kingfisher. Upon discharge, he entered the College of Dentistry at University of California—San Francisco. After graduation, he took over a dental practice in Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, He practiced dentistry in Yosemite Valley for 37 years.

Case Western (Alpha-Nu)Ralph E. Kirk (1950) died Aug. 25, 2014.

Central Michigan (Lambda-Omega)Allstate agency owner Michael Love received the Agency Hands in the Community award for his commitment to helping others. The award included a $1,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation for each of the following organizations where Love volunteers: Mid-Michigan Industries Inc., Junior Achievement Of Northeast Michigan, Arrowwood Elementary and Midland Area Community Foundation.

Cornell (Omicron)

Under the leadership of Recruitment Chairman Duncan McCausland (2016), the chapter added six associate members: Gerrard Boucaud from Ft Lauderdale, Fla.; Alexander Chee from Manhasset, N.Y.; James Gallagher from Port Washington, N.Y.; Jarrett Goodness from Westport, Conn.; Michael Nester from Center Valley, Pa.; and Patrick Spoth from Clarence, N.Y.

The Capital Campaign to renovate the chapter house continues to grow as it now approaches $2 million in alumni pledges. The demolition process, to remove the old dining room to allow for the sinking of pillars to support the new dining room and the addition of three floors above it, is well underway. The renovation also will include a complete updating of the house’s




CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter News



electrical, heating and plumbing infrastructure, a larger new dining room, the addition of an electronic learning center, a reading room/library with a balcony off the first floor over the patio, renovated living quarters and bathrooms and a new exercise center on the third floor overlooking Cascadilla Gorge. The undergraduates will move back into the renovated chapter house at the beginning of the 2015-16 school year.

Drexel (Epsilon-Kappa)

The chapter held a luncheon during Drexel’s Family Weekend that included a presentation about associate membership for the parents of new members.

The chapter hosted an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for three members from the Epsilon chapter at the University of Pennsylvania.

The chapter hosted an etiquette dinner with the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority.

The chapter hosted a harm reduction presentation from the Philadelphia Police Department.

Elmhurst (Pi-Zeta)

At the Greek Awards event, the chapter received the Chapter of Excellence award, and Chapter President Vincent Arcari was named the Fraternity Man of the Year. In addition, Chapter Adviser Kenneth Schultz received the Cheryl Leoni Spirit of Being Greek Award for alumni advisers.

On Nov. 15, 2014, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 21 new members.

The chapter collected 4,800 pounds of food for the Elmhurst/Yorkfield Food Pantry as a part of Lambda Chi Alpha’s Feeding America Food Drive.

On Nov. 13, 2014, Michael Petillo won Alpha Phi’s King of Hearts men’s pageant competition.

On Nov. 5, 2014, country music star Brett Eldredge was named New Artist of the Year by the 2014 Country Music Association.

Elon (Delta-Pi)The chapter held a food drive and collected more than 450 pounds of food for the Salvation Army of Burlington, N.C.

The chapter hosted its 18th annual Pumpkinfest, which included a variety of events and field games involving both sororities and the Elon community.

Sixty chapter brothers spent time cleaning trash and debris along




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Chapter News



the Alamance Creek, a tributary to the Haw River.

To honor deceased brother Victor Wisniewski, the chapter adopted a portion of NC highway 87 just off the campus of Elon and will ensure it’s kept clean.

Eureka (Theta-Chi)The chapter held a food drive and collected more than 500 pounds of food.

Florida Southern (Epsilon-Xi)Dr. Jeffrey May (1996) died Sept. 25, 2014. An Eagle Scout, he completed his undergraduate degree at Florida Southern College and received his D.D.S. from the University of Florida in 2001.

Georgia Tech (Beta-Kappa)

Clark Howell represented the chapter during the finals for the Mr. Georgia Tech homecoming contest. Howell is a sixth year pre-med industrial engineering student from Charlotte, N.C. A former chapter president, he is currently interning for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, performing research on ALS with Georgia Tech Research Institute, and tutoring with Applerouth Tutoring.

Gettysburg (Theta-Pi)David W. Leese (1992) died Dec. 15, 2011. He earned an MBA from Indiana University and had been a financial executive with Sprint, Embarq and CenturyLink. He also volunteered at Children’s Mercy Hospital.

George E. Kirschner Jr. (1948) died Oct. 13, 2014.

Illinois (Chi)

The chapter added 11 associate members during fall recruitment.

Indiana State (Iota-Epsilon)Chapter members and other university students took over the court during halftime at a recent Indiana State basketball game to take part in a nationwide challenge called Layups 4 Lauren, named for Lauren Hill, who has terminal brain cancer and has fulfilled her dreams by playing in a basketball game at her university. Participants spin five times, then attempt a layup with their non-dominant hand. If they miss, they are asked to donate, with proceeds going towards brain cancer research.

Iowa State (Alpha-Tau)Chad Bouton received national recognition for his work helping paralyzed people be able to regain the ability to move.




CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter News



Bouton has been innovating all his life. As a senior in high school, he won the Grand First Prize in Engineering at the International Science Fair and collected enough scholarship and prize money to pay for his education at Iowa State. After completing his college education, Bouton joined Battelle Memorial Institute, the nation’s largest independent scientific research organization, where he has truly set himself apart from the crowd. Bouton has filed 67 patent applications for medical devices that have saved and changed lives worldwide. He has received three R&D Magazine awards for his work, and in 2010 he was named Battelle’s Inventor of the Year. He is one of 35 Battelle employees who have earned the title of “Distinguished Inventor.”

John Carroll (Pi-Eta)

On Nov. 1, 2014, the chapter held its chartering banquet.

Maryland (Epsilon-Pi)Paul Becker was elected IFC president and Andrew Schneider was elected IFC vice president of recruitment.

Miami-OH (Zeta-Upsilon)On Nov. 8, 2014, the chapter held its Woodchopper’s Ball semiformal and crowned a new White Rose queen.

On Nov. 14, 2014, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for four new members.

Norman P. Brand (1955) died July 11, 2014. He was a retired economist for the U.S. government.

Harold E. Ott (1955) died April 6, 2014. He was a retired elementary school principal in Coshocton, Ohio.

John Humphries (1958) died June 26, 2014. He was an ocean lifeguard in his retirement years.

Millersville (Delta-Tau)On Nov. 22, 2014, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for five new members.

The chapter held a bag dropoff and pickup to collect canned food for Feeding America.

Murray State (Lambda-Eta)David Carroll served in the U.S. Army Special Forces from 1990 - 1995. After his honorable discharge Carroll established a private security firm specializing in providing close protection for various entertainers, business executives, visiting dignitaries and spiritual leaders in Nashville, Tenn. He lived abroad in Kuwait City, Kuwait, from 1999-2001. He moved to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in 2001 where he was in charge of the presidential protection detail for then President Aristide and his




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Chapter News



family. In 2002, Carroll was recruited by the U.S. Department of State diplomatic security service. While serving in the Washington Field Office, he provided close protection for the secretary of state, and various visiting foreign ministers. In 2004-2006, Carroll served at the U.S. Embassy Baghdad with the regional security office. In 2006, he transferred to the U.S. consulate in Jerusalem, Israel, where he served as the regional security officer. He returned to the United States in 2010 and continues to serve at various U.S. embassy and consulates throughout the world.

New Hampshire (Alpha-Xi)The chapter collected more than 1,200 pounds of food for the Durham Food Pantry.

Chapter members volunteered at the annual First Lego League.

North Carolina State (Gamma-Upsilon)

At the Greek Awards ceremony, Jerry Lassiter was named Greek volunteer of the year, Jake LaRoe was named Fraternity Man of the Year, and the chapter won Fraternity of the Year.

North Dakota (Epsilon-Zeta)Chapter brothers placed third in Pi Beta Phi’s annual volleyball tournament, which raises awareness of child illiteracy.

Ross Lien returned from nine months in Afghanistan and chapter members welcomed him back with open arms.




CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter NewsChapter news, alumni news, and reports of death


The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for 25 new members, raising the chapter to 61 initiated members.

Gerald Vandewalle was re-elected as chief justice of the North Dakota State Supreme Court.

Dustin DuFault, Ben Kennelly, Andrew Lendway, Brian Pedersen, Nels Redske and Paul Skorick attended an alumni reception in Minneapolis.

Steve Lodoen, Mike Lodoen, John MacFarlane and Terrance Severson were featured in the most recent UND Engineering publication.

Northern Michigan (Lambda-Upsilon)Alumni members gathered for the annual homecoming celebration that included collecting 1,400 pounds of canned food for the Marquette Salvation Army. Bill Digneit of Double Trouble Entertainment planned and coordinated the event in conjunction with the university’s game day activities at the Superior Dome.

Northwestern (Iota-Alpha)Dr. Douglas M. Enoch (1955) died Nov. 14, 2014. He completed his residency in neurosurgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and received his Master of Science degree from the University of Minnesota. He was a former chapter president, member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor

Society, and Phi Beta Kappa. He began his neurosurgical practice in Sacramento in 1967 but took a two-year military leave, serving as a commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps. Returning to Sacramento in January 1970 he resumed his medical practice and was on the staffs of Mercy Hospitals, Sutter Hospitals, and Roseville Community Hospital. He was an assistant professor at the U.C. Davis Medical School and an active member of the Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society for nearly 50 years.

Ohio State (Gamma-Tau)Thomas C. Coady (1961) died Dec. 20, 2011. He graduated from Ohio State University School of law in 1964 and retired from the law firm of Porter Wright Morris & Arthur after 45 years. In recent years his practice focused primarily in the areas of business and banking law. He also headed the firm’s Public Finance Group. Coady also served for many years as the secretary of the chapter’s house corporation.

Oklahoma City (Theta-Delta)

The chapter celebrated its 90th anniversary with a weekend of activities. More than 65 alumni brothers were in attendance. A light dinner with cocktails was held Friday evening at the home of Mark Kelly. On Saturday a luncheon was held at the Meinders School of Business on campus. Educational Foundation CEO and President Mark Bauer, chapter President




CHAPTER NEWS



Dan Grix, and Dean of the Meinders School, Steve Agee, gave brief updates on the foundation, chapter, and University. On Saturday evening a reception was held at the home of Robert Henry, president of Oklahoma City University followed by a dinner at the Petroleum Club. Judge Terry Means, former fraternity board member, was the speaker and gave an outstanding address to the alumni. Proclamations from Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin and Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett were given to alumnus brother Herman Meinders for his contributions to the State of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City University, and the Theta-Delta chapter.

Oklahoma Corporation Commission official Michael Decker (1975) is the recipient of this year’s Eugene Kuntz Award for his contributions to energy law. The award was presented at the 19th annual Kuntz Conference on Natural Resources Law & Policy in Oklahoma City. Decker has been with the Corporation Commission for 32 years, starting as an oil and gas attorney. He is currently director of administrative proceedings, which includes the commission’s court system which handles more than 40,000 cases a year in such areas as oil and gas, public utilities, consumer services and transportation.

Oregon State (Alpha-Lambda)Chapter members collected and donated more than 182,000 pounds of food to Community Outreach Inc.

Pennsylvania (Epsilon)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for three new members: Adam Rawot, Kieraj Mumick and Robin Choi.

Nikhil Nag ran an urban debate tournament with more than 100 high school and middle school students through Penn For Youth Debate.

Ian Sibner was selected to teach the university’s Javascript course next semester.

Max Scheiber and Lewis Ellis were selected to be head teaching assistants for the university’s data structures and algorithms next semester.

Eli Mendelson was elected IFC vice president of philanthropy.

Chapter members conducted a food drive for Feeding America and volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House and the Penn Transplant House.

Polytechnic (Theta-Upsilon)Alan Kruger started a position with The Aerospace Corp. as a senior member of the technical staff. He is currently evaluating SpaceX corporation’s launch capability for DOD use. This position continues a extensive history in the launch and test of communication/weather spacecraft and launch vehicles for commercial and government customers.

Dr. Robert Quattrone (1962) died Sept. 23, 2014.

South Carolina (Epsilon-Psi)The chapter hosted a Watermelon Bash and collected more than 16,000 pounds of food for local food banks.

Connor Lane met with Gov. Nikki Haley.

Faculty Adviser Dr. John Grady received the Mortar Board Excellence in Teaching Award.




CHAPTER NEWS



Shippensburg (Colony)The colony has 16 members.

On Nov. 15, 2014, the colony hosted its first Initiation Ritual Exemplification.

Southeast Missouri State (Delta-Phi)Seventeen bids were signed and 17 new Associate Members joined our chapter following this year’s fall recruitment.

Southeastern Oklahoma State (Pi-Sigma)

Chapter members spent time volunteering for the Durant Restore and Preserve Association. Their work included cleaning a woman’s house and yard that was going to be condemned by the city of Durant. The woman’s husband had recently died and she couldn’t afford to have the work done. Chapter members included in the photo are: Ryan Blakemore, Andrew Oyer, Sean Blakemore, Zack Hankins, Lukas Gilliam, Padyn Pence, Alex McCleskey, Koby Lanier, T.J. Bishop, Dakota Isaacs, Zach McKimmy and Chance Morgan.

Southern California (Zeta-Delta)Thomas R. Bell (1954) died Jan. 16, 2014. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany as a member of the Counter Intelligence Corps during the Nuremburg Trials. After graduation, he joined Kaiser Steel before moving to Nalco Chemical Co. as a water treatment specialist. For the last 21 years of his career, he served as a water safety engineer for the State of California Water Quality Control Board, retiring in 1993.

Kellan Monroe and Scott McConnell hosted the alumni homecoming event.

Richmond (Alpha-Chi)

On Oct. 25, 2014, the chapter hosted a brotherhood event at Shalom Farms. The event helped to address the growing “food desert” in Richmond. Over the course of the day, chapter members learned about food-access and food-supply issues that significantly reduce Richmond residents’ ability to buy nutritious produce. During the event, chapter members helped clear fields to make room for new crops.

Rose-Hulman (Theta-Kappa)In January 2014 Robert Wilkins (1986) was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Washington, D.C. Circuit.. A Muncie, Ind., native, Wilkins has served as judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia since 2010. He had formerly practiced as a partner with Washington, D.C.-based Venable LLP, specializing in white collar defense, intellectual property, and complex civil litigation cases.




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for the fifth consecutive year. During the event the attendees discussed a possible re-colonization of the Lambda Mu chapter at the University of South Florida. If any area alumni are interested in helping with this initiative, please contact William Foley at [email protected].

Tulsa (Epsilon-Upsilon)The chapter hosted a university-wide educational session on hazing called “Hazing: The Fallout” with Travis Apgar, a well-known educator on the dangers of hazing. To host the event, the chapter partnered with the Office of Student Affairs, IFC, and the Panhellenic Conference.

Vincennes (Sigma-Alpha)David Mettler received the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana’s 2014 Agent of the Year Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize the outstanding performance and achievement of an individual who is an agent member of the IIAI. He is the vice president, chief financial officer and chief

information officer for Mettler Agency in Huntington, Ind. In addition to being a full-time broker for 22 years, Mettler also is a licensed bail bondsman.

Stetson (Colony)

The colony added seven Associate Members, raising their total to 16 members.

Tampa Bay Area Alumni AssociationOn

Oct. 19, 2014, the alumni association hosted its annual barbeque and family picnic at Al Lopez Park in Tampa, Fla. More than 30 alumni from four different chapters were in attendance. Phil Hart and Vince Tort organized the event




CHAPTER NEWS



and at Blythe Eastman Dillon as a broker in 1973. After moving to Walla Walla with his family in 1973, he continued to work as a broker under a number of firms, including Shearson Lehman. Grant worked as a farmer starting in 1979 until his death.

Western Carolina (Beta-Zeta)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for three members: Joseph Arnet, Jonathan Ledford and Austin Whitaker.

Western Kentucky (Lambda-Lambda)Dave Winchester (1980) died Oct. 29, 2014.

Wichita State (Colony)

The chapter added five associate members during fall recruitment.

The chapter raised more than 5,000 pounds of food for Feeding America.

Virginia Commonwealth (Pi-Tau)On Nov. 15, 2014, the chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for eight new members.

Eric Champion was appointed the new chapter advisor, replacing David Huffine who is currently serving on the Fraternity Board of Directors.

Wabash (Alpha-Kappa)Dr. John A. Blair (1954) died July 14, 2014. After graduating from Wabash College, he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from Michigan State University in in 1962. He practiced veterinary medicine for 42 years, retiring in 1999.

Wake Forest (Theta-Tau)The chapter held an Initiation Ritual Exemplification for six members.

The chapter held its annual Watermelon Bust, raising enough money to purchase 8,700 meals for Second Harvest Food Bank.

The chapter has a new website.

Chapter members volunteered at the Samaritan’s Inn & Ministries in downtown Winston-Salem, N.C., serving meals and participating in Bible study.

The chapter has been helping the Johnson & Wales University colony with recruitment and ritual.

Washington State (Tau)John Grant (1961) died Oct. 3, 2014. After graduation, he moved to the Seattle area and worked in the National Bank of Commerce Trust Department from 1961-1966, Dominick and Dominick Bond Trading and Institutional Sales from 1966-73,



12www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent Cross & Crescent December 2014

FEATURE

A new afterschool program was started during the

spring semester of 2014 on the campus of the University of

Wyoming. The program was not focused on college kids, but rather on at-risk children within the community of Laramie, Wyo. The program is known as Healthy Pokes,

rightly named after the University of Wyoming Cowboys. The afterschool program’s definition of at-risk children includes children suffering from obesity, abuse, neglect and much more. Serving as one of the mentors of this program is Russ Whitaker, a brother of the Delta-Rho chapter at the University of Wyoming campus.

University of Wyoming brother campaigns fundraiser for underprivileged children to play sports

By Russell Whitaker (Wyoming)

From mentor to game changer



FEATURE

Whitaker was one of the first mentors for Healthy Pokes when it started up in the spring. The program’s mentors consist of students majoring in either nutrition, health or physical education. These mentors are paired one-on-one with an elementary age child to aid him or her in growing, understanding and enjoying physical fitness, proper nutrition, and over all well-being of health.

During the first Healthy Pokes session last semester Whitaker, a physical education major, was paired up with a fourth grader named James. From the get-go, Whitaker and James got along well. Before each session Whitaker and James would pass a soccer ball back and forth while discussing what had happened since the last session. Each week Whitaker would spend time with James, playing games with him at his elementary school during recess and lunch. Whitaker would occasionally help James to work on his reading skills during class by reading the book “Shiloh” together.

Before long, the Healthy Pokes session ended for summer. Whitaker and James headed separate ways until the fall semester and the next Healthy Pokes session started. When the next session came Whitaker and James met up, once again passing a soccer ball back and forth and discussing how the summer went. Whitaker asked James if he had the chance to play on a soccer team. James responded by saying that because of financial constraints he was not able to join a team.

After hearing this, Whitaker asked the other Healthy Pokes if they had the chance to play on an organized sports team over the summer. The answer was almost unanimous - the majority of the Healthy Pokes could not play due to financial reasons. Whitaker did some research on the cost of youth sports in Laramie. He found that the average cost to play on an organized sports team through the recreation center was $45 (excluding equipment costs). After seeing the cost for a child to play a sport, Whitaker and Delta-Rho Zeta began a campaign to raise money for the Healthy Pokes program to be able to pay for the members to play on organized sports teams.

“Children should not be deprived of the opportunity to play team sports growing up. Sports allow for children to learn critical life skills and lessons. These vary from teamwork, responsibility, leadership, setting and reaching goals, building character, and most of all – sportsmanship,” Whitaker said. “For $900 we can pay for each child currently in Healthy Pokes to play at least one sport if they so choose. But why stop there? Why not raise enough money for the kids to play whatever sports that they want, when they want?”

Whitaker and Delta-Rho Zeta are determined to see this campaign take flight in Laramie, and he has high hopes for it elsewhere.

“I am reaching out to my brothers’ nation and worldwide to help me in this endeavor. After seeing the impact of this program at the University of Wyoming already, it would be amazing to see this program spread to other universities in the mountain west and nationwide,” Whitaker said.

Whitaker will continue to conduct his campaign in Laramie and various other towns within the state in hopes of raising enough funds for the children in the Healthy Pokes program. He will reach out to surrounding areas in Utah and Colorado for support in this endeavor.

“This program truly has been life changing so far for me. Growing up, I was allowed to play the sports I wanted, and I feel a lot of those sports helped turn me into the person I am today,” Whitaker said.



FEATURE

Please mail checks or cash donations to:

Corbett Building 119 Dept. 3196 1000 E. University Ave. Laramie, WY 82071 ATTN: Healthy Pokes

For online donations: Go to uwyo.edu/kandh/

On the left side of the page select Healthy Pokes

On the Healthy Pokes page please select “Donate to Healthy Pokes” in the right margin

Please follow the instructions and when asked to specify please put Healthy Pokes – Sports Program

“I am excited to see where this programs goes and know that we can impact the lives of our Healthy Pokes members,” beams Russ. “One of the core values that we live by, and that has impacted me the most through Lambda Chi Alpha, is service and stewardship, and I feel this is a great service to perform because of the impact that this can have on the children and the skills and lessons that the Healthy Pokes can get out of this.”

Help The Cause

If you would be willing to donate to the Healthy Pokes, you can send checks to the Healthy Pokes program at the address provided below. Please make all checks payable to Healthy Pokes and on the description line of the check write “Sports Program.” If you wish to pay by credit card online, please follow the instructions below as well.

For check or cash donations

Please make checks payable to Healthy Pokes with “Sports Program” in the description of the check.



FEATURE


Western Kentucky alum takes over family business and continues commitment to the value of service

The challenge to save Christmas

A fter taking over the family business, Robert Cabaniss

(Western Kentucky ’12) looked to bring his family’s trade

into the 21st century and along the way, try and save

Christmas for a few kids in need.

“I wanted to take advantage of the wave of challenges sweeping social media by creating one of my own,” said Cabaniss.

Thus, ToysForTotsChallenge.com was born.

“My family has been heavily involved with Toys For Tots over the past 15 years and this year we really wanted to make a difference by using our company’s resources,” said Cabaniss.

Cabaniss, whose father is a Marine and disabled veteran, said that Toys for Tots and other philanthropy efforts have always been his family’s passion, and it has been a big part

of their Marine Corps Direct merchandising business each year.

Through that spirit of service, Cabaniss reached out to his chapter brothers at Western Kentucky and sold his first 12 shirts. From there sales gradually increased.

“[With the sales of ]Our first 100 shirts we were able to donate 160 toys through our partnership with HDI Toys,” Cabaniss added.

Western Kentucky’s alumni adviser, Johnny Douglas, said of Cabaniss, “He was the kind of kid who never held an office but, with this, he’s doing well and I want him to succeed. It’s a great endeavor and probably one of the best things he’s ever done as a Lambda Chi.”

Cabaniss and his family have set a goal of 100,000 donated toys this holiday season and hope to keep their challenge alive in the coming years.

“We’re hoping that the people who buy this year will also buy next year and the challenge will grow exponentially,” he said.

To find more information about the challenge and to purchase a shirt that will help make a difference in a child’s holiday this season visit ToysForTotsChallenge.com.

More can also be found on Instagram and Twitter via @TFTChallenge and with the hashtags #TFTCHALLENGE and #TOYSFORTOTSCHALLENGE.



FEATURE

T he Indiana University Lilly Family School of

Philanthropy announced this month that a $1.5 million gift

from Jerre and Mary Joy Stead and their family through the

Stead Family Foundation would establish the school’s 10th

endowed chair, the largest number of endowed chairs in

philanthropy at any university.

Stead, an initiated brother of Lambda Chi Alpha, former Chairman of the Educational Foundation board, Order of Achievement recipient and namesake of the Stead Leadership Seminar, has been instrumental in investing in religion education, business (both for profit and nonprofit) and medical research throughout his professional career.

The gift of the Stead Family Chair was announced at a ceremony Monday, Nov. 10 in Indianapolis, Ind. where they also received a key to the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The Steads were joined by their

Storied alumni continues spirit of service and stewardship

Stead invests in creating leaders



FEATURE

granddaughter Sydney Stead, a trustee of the Stead Family Foundation.

“We invest in creating great leaders,” Stead said. “This chair will support the wonderful work being done at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.”

The holder of the Stead Family Chair will conduct original research and translate new knowledge into improvements in the practice of international philanthropy and educate new philanthropic leaders for the international arena. The chair will also lead to new opportunities for education and training in international philanthropy at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and around the world.

To commemorate Jerre Stead’s outstanding career as a philanthropist and pursuit of developing the next generation

of philanthropic leaders, the school is also creating the Stead Family Medal for International Philanthropy. The medal will be awarded every two years to one or more people who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and leadership in all aspects of international philanthropy and who have worked to sustain philanthropy as a globally significant force for improving communities, institutions and people.

Jerre Stead is a member of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy’s board of visitors, and is chairman and CEO of IHS, Inc. a global information and insight services company that employs more than 8,200 people in more than 40 countries. He has served as chairman and/or CEO of seven major national and international corporations; in addition to IHS they include AT&T Global Business Communications Systems, AT&T Global Information Solutions, NCR Japan, Square D Corporation, Ingram Micro and Legent Corporation.



FEATURE


Starting up and linking in

L ess than a year out of school, Ryan Schueler

(Maryland-College Park ’14) and the company he helped

found now have their product in over 20 stores throughout

the state of Maryland.

While still in school, Schueler, along with two friends, founded the Caoexist Superfood Company. A company with the vision to “create new trends in the food and beverage industry that can make the world a better place.”

“We took this from idea, to a full blown package in 20

grocery stores in just four months,” said Schueler. “We have made a lot of progress and my chapter has helped me out tremendously throughout the process with support.”

Schueler explained that his time and experience in Lambda Chi Alpha has helped him prepare for his current endeavor.

“I was a member of the Epsilon Pi chapter at the University of Maryland College Park from 2011-2014. During my time in the chapter I served as the High Gamma, and the fundraising chair. I was in charge of a large part of the supplemental income for the chapter through a vending contact which I facilitated with the Washington Redskins,” he said.

“From this experience I got the satisfaction of negotiating contracts for our whole organization which was 13 percent of all sales, a collective higher rate than other organizations,” he added. “The week to week operations taught me about staffing and scheduling in general, making sure everyone showed up made me feel like I was in charge of a small business.”

When launching his company and it’s first product, Javazen, Schueler would once again find a resource in the Lambda Chi Alpha network.

Reaching out over the Lambda Chi Alpha LinkedIn page, Schueler was in search of interns for the company and was able to find success in connecting with brothers interested in working with startup companies.

“The first time I used the LinkedIn page I was searching for some legal advice for documents we were making for the company’s operations,” Schueler said. “I had found an older brother who wasn’t from my home chapter who looked over a document for our company.

Young alumni looks to LinkedIn and Lambda Chi network to find help with start up business



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“Also, Austin Bonnar, who is currently an MBA candidate at Johns Hopkins University has been helping us with our strategy for branding and customer awareness as we expand nationally. Due to the LinkedIn page I was able to reach out for help even outside my home chapter,” he said.

Riding the success of Javazen, Schueler and his company have been rapidly expanding to retail stores over the past nine months as well as meeting leaders in the industry to help further their progress.

For more information on Caoexist, visit www.drinkjavazen.com and connect with the company on LinkedIn via www.linkedin.com/company/caoexist.



FEATURE

Kevin Rudi, a 27-year-old Zeta-Gamma chapter brother from New Mexico State University, died Nov. 12, 2014, from sarcoma cancer. A very popular and caring brother, he served his chapter as treasurer, and the General Fraternity as a 2010 summer intern.

By Aron Jones (New Mexico State)

Remembering Kevin Rudi



FEATURE

K evin “Polar Bear” Rudi (New Mexico State

2011), 27, died on Nov. 12, 2014, from sarcoma cancer.

Surrounded by his close family and friends, he died in his home in Albuquerque, N.M.. Born Sept. 17, 1987, in Sacramento, Calif., to Diane and Iver Rudi, he grew up with two older brothers, Curtis and Nolan Rudi. Kevin graduated from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Having the strength to lift

and support his flier using only one arm, Kevin joined the cheerleading team at New Mexico State. He was honored to be elected twice as the Zeta-Gamma chapter’s treasurer and once as an Executive Committee member. As a member of Zeta-Gamma, he was crucial in helping secure numerous sorority competition trophies, a couple of Greek Week titles, three consecutive Greek Sing championships, numerous national recruiting recognitions, and the prestigious Grand High Alpha award. Kevin even worked a summer as an intern at Lambda Chi Alpha’s National Headquarters in 2010. He went on from college to work as an accountant for Mega Corp, an equipment manufacturing company, in Albuquerque. He also participated on a university rugby club, The Chiles. His thorough understanding of the stock market as owner/CEO of White Bear Investments allowed him to purchase his first fixer-upper home in Albuquerque. With the help of family and friends he turned it into a palace. Kevin traveled the nation in his battle against cancer. His stops included Houston, New York, Denver and Albuquerque. He is survived by his grandparents, John and Gayle Wilson, and Percy and Virginia Haugen “Rudi”, and his two best friends Brother Matthew “Chewy” Duran and childhood friend Kory Robertson. A memorial service was held on Sunday, Nov. 16, in Albuquerque and was attended by hundreds of friends and family and more than 50 of his Lambda Chi Alpha brothers (with many more who couldn’t make it sending their condolences). A video tribute his Lambda Chi Alpha brothers made can be viewed here http://goo.gl/nRfmGt

In lieu of anything else, Kevin’s family requests donations be made to the Rudi Foundation, Wells Fargo account number 8163785721, a nonprofit organization to support research to find a cure for sarcoma cancer.

Remembering Kevin Rudi


Cross & Crescent December 201422www.lambdachi.org/cross-crescent Cross & Crescent December 2014

Indianapolis finishes Mentor Academy events for 2014

After visits to Kansas City, Mo., Orlando, Fla., and Washington D.C., among others, this year’s JTC Mentor Program events came to a close in Indianapolis, Ind. at the Lambda Chi Alpha International Headquarters building.

Undergraduates and local alumni came together on Saturday, Nov. 15 to develop a mentoring relationship that will utilize Lambda Chi Alpha’s Seven Core Values to drive activities and resources that connect and support alumni and collegian brothers as they strive to become better brothers, employees, friends, husbands and fathers.

Nearly 40 collegians and alumni attended the event Saturday, hailing from schools such as Ball State University, Butler University, Indiana University, the University of Southern Indiana and the University of Kentucky.

The featured speaker during the Indianapolis Mentor Academy was brother and president of Arland Communications, David Arland. Arland spoke on the importance of presentation, opportunity and the continuation of personal and fraternal growth.

Arland graduated from Butler University in 1985 with a degree in radio and television. He spent three years on-air at WIBC and WIRE Radio before being named press secretary to four-term Indianapolis Mayor Bill Hudnut. After a wealth of city government and national association experience, Arland then joined Thomson/RCA in 1991.

FRATERNITY NEWS

By Kyle Jones (Montevallo)Coming to six new cities this spring



At Thomson, Arland moved up through the ranks to be named Vice President of Global Consumer Marketing. He led the public relations efforts to introduce mp3 music players, high-definition TV and e-book readers to consumers throughout the U.S. and Europe. He also served as the company’s voice in Washington, testifying twice before Congress and helping staff of the Federal Communications Commission understand complex digital technology developments.

Since 2008, he has run Arland Communications and has helped consumer companies, broadcasters and trade associations reach new audiences with the help of a dedicated team and key partners.

Though no more events are scheduled in 2014, the JTC Mentor Program will continue to help undergraduate brothers make life-directing connections with some of our 180,000 alumni with a new list of dates and locations starting in 2015.

By bridging the knowledge, leadership and experience of our alumni with the vibrant ideas and ideals of collegians, the program aims to develop strong leaders, build lifelong bonds and strengthen the legacy of our fraternity for

generations to come.

To sign up for an upcoming Mentor Academy coming to your area in 2015 mylca.

FRATERNITY NEWS

UPCOMING ACADEMIES

Atlanta -------------- Feb. 21, 2015

Charlotte -------------- Feb. 28, 2015

Philadelphia --------------- April 11, 2015

Los Angeles --------------- April 18, 2015

Richmond -------------- March 21, 2015

Houston --------------- June 2015


Cross & Crescent - Your daily source for Lambda Chi Alpha …€¦ · This is our final issue of...

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