Undergrads Remain Active in School and Community
The
Delta Dial
Delta Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity at Rensselaer • Fall 2013
Undergrads Remain Active in School and Community
Left to right: John Wetmiller ’68, Diana Balough, Debby and Jim Clapper ’68, Nancy and Bill Ablondi ’68, Terry Roskter ’68, and Nic Balough ’68 celebrating their 45th reunion.
Bill Moller ’53 (visiting the Burdett Ave. chapter house for the very first time) in the newly renovated Dusty Room.
Left to right: Dan Moellman ’74, Rick Rice ’76, and Steve Myers ’75 returned to RPI for Alumni Weekend.
First and foremost, on behalf of all the un- Relay for Life. This semester what used to be known as dergraduate brothers, I would like to extend an enormous “thank you” to all the alumni who Greek Weekend was changed to Greek Week. made these amazing renovations possible. Ev- Each night of the week consisted of different eryone is enjoying the new rooms, bathrooms, events, such as bowling, trivia, softball, etc. and furniture. This fall 19 promising young There were four teams made up of different somen pledged Theta Chi, and the renovations rorities and fraternities. Our team won overall first place, and Theta Chi won an individual played a big role in their decision. We’ve held two large philanthropy events award for cancer awareness. Theta Chi is also this semester in which we raised over $1,700. making waves in IFC football this season, as we First was our second annual Wing Fest. This are currently undefeated and looking to make a was a joint event with Pi Beta Phi Sorority in run at the championship. For the first time in a which different groups “This fall 19 promising long while, we hosted a such as other fraternities and sports teams made young men pledged Theta Chi, Parents Weekend at the house, with catering help their own wings. We held and the renovations played a from David Gardell ‘99, this event outside the big role in their decision.” owner of The Ruck (forfootball stadium before a game. People bought tickets to taste the wings merly known as Sutter’s). We thought it would and then voted on the ones they liked the best. be a good tradition to bring back, especially There were categories for best wing, hottest with the house looking as great as it does. We wing, and most original wing. Greek Dean filled the common room with tables and chairs Matthew Hunt served as one of the judges. and invited our parents to the house after the We raised $600 and won the prize for hottest football game. Many of the undergraduates and wing. We will be using this money to throw a I were personally thanked by the parents and Christmas party for the Sunnyside after-school were told how much they enjoyed it. We plan program in downtown Troy, a program we’ve on keeping this going as a Theta Chi tradition. As in the past, we have many brothers supported for a few years, as reported on in excelling on the varsity football team, which previous Delta Dial issues. Our second major event for the semester closed out an up-and-down season with a was called Cross Dress for Breasts, in support huge win over Union, 31-28! Teddy Abriel of breast cancer research, which we co-spon- ‘14 is one of the key players on defense as well sored with the women’s lacrosse team. In this as one of the team’s captains. He and Nick event, 12 brothers participated in a fashion Borkowski (DB) ’15 both earned First Team show, and what they wore depended on how Liberty League honors, and Jay Yaskanich much money they raised in the weeks prior. For (OL) ’15 made Second Team. In addition, example, if the brother raised $10 he had to several brothers have made Delta Chapter dye his hair pink, if he raised $30 he had to dye very proud by being named to the League Allhis hair and paint his nails pink. As the money Academic Team: Austin Amery ’16, Borkowgot higher the articles of clothing got more fem- ski, Matt Brown ’14, Logan Gaddar ’16, Pat inine. This was a big hit, and we were able to Hogan ’16, Matt Lane ’16, Casey McHugh ’16, Seth Stauble ’16, and Yaskanich. raise $1,185 to help battle breast cancer. My term as the undergraduate president Recently, we helped Sunnyside throw a Halloween party. We played games with the is coming to an end. I have truly enjoyed my kids, such as doughnut on a string and bobbing time representing Delta Chapter. I would like to for apples, and painted their faces “scary.” We thank all of you for your undying support and also bought bags for them to decorate and use dedication to our beloved chapter. If you are trick-or-treating. We look forward to our an- ever in town, please stop by the house and share nual Christmas party there. We will serve food, some stories of your time here at Rensselaer. dress up as Santa Claus, give out gifts, and help Fraternally yours, the kids make ornaments. Next semester we Scott Egglinger ’14 will hold our second annual Lift-a-Thon to Undergraduate President raise money for the American Cancer Society’s
Alumni News
CORPORATION BOARD
Delta Theta Chi Corporation Board of Directors
ALUMNI MEMBERS Rich Boroway ’73, president/treasurer [email protected] Pat Doyle ’02, vice president [email protected] Roger Paul ’06, secretary [email protected] Dave Gardell ’99 [email protected] James Porambo ’08 [email protected] John Postulka ’02 [email protected] Gordon Reynolds ’09 [email protected] Scott Sasenbury ’97 [email protected]
UNDERGRADUATE MEMBERS
From Rhode Island W. Malcolm Gray ’40 writes: “My wife and I live in a retirement home with a daughter living in a nearby town.” Mal was hoping to get in touch with classmate Doug Ronaldson ’40. With many of Mal’s friends scattered across the country, he would welcome contact from Delta Chapter brothers by email ([email protected]) or 612 George Washington Hwy., #302, Lincoln, RI 02856. “It’s been a while,” reports Carl E. “Weed” Wideberg ’72. After a long sales executive career with IBM, AT&T, MCI, Dun & Bradstreet, and Global Compliance, Carl started his own company, iSalesman, a social network for sales people. Carl adds that he’s still happily married to Theta Chi Sweetheart Dawn after 36 years, with two daughters and three grandkids. “Still moving between Naples, Charlotte, and Spring Lake, New Jersey. ‘Going where the weather suits my clothes.’ Wishing all of my brothers of Delta Chapter well.” Catch up with “Weed” by email at [email protected] or postal mail: 8414 Mallards Way, Naples, FL 34114. Brother Christopher P. “Sly” Vasiloff ’73 has done it again! On September 1-6, 2013, he and Rick Tarnow, John Lippold, and Carl Nasca (all ’73), Larry Maver ’71, and their wives got together in Provence, France, for their planned biking adventure. Writes Chris, “The highlight of the trip was climbing the famous Mt. Ventoux [see photo]. We have been doing a variety of trips for the past three years. Let us know if any of you are interested in joining future trips.”
Scott Egglinger ’14, president [email protected] Jay Yaskanich ’15, vice president [email protected] Nick Borkowski ’15, treasurer [email protected]
ADVISORS Rich Bollam ’66, scholarship fund director [email protected] Rich Boroway ’73, financial advisor and AIGC rep [email protected] James Porambo ’08, chapter advisor [email protected] Scott Sasenbury ’97, faculty advisor [email protected] Craig Woolhiser ’86, communications director [email protected]
Brothers atop Mt. Ventoux in Provence, France, during their biking adventure.
([email protected]; 17613 Westward Reach Rd., Cornelius, NC 28031)
Stoy’s retirement party at Paul Kiely’s house in Phoenix (left to right): George “Sarge” Panasuk (standing), Steve “Ma” Connors (our RPI football buddy), Frank “Gouche” Codispoti, Stoy, Paul “PK” Kiely, Bob “Shobs” Shober. Congratulations to Stoyan Lokar ’77, who has retired after a 35-year career with Procter & Gamble. “Most of my career was in engineering, with my last job being director of mechanical technologies. I ran a development lab that built prototype machines that made our consumer product. I had a blast. It was like a playland for mechanical engineers. But life is short, and I wanted to have time to do/ try other things.” He’s been traveling to see friends and family, has done some “muscle car and motorcycle stuff” and home improvements, and is still an avid weightlifter—“on most lifts I’m 90–95% of the weight I did in college.” Stoy keeps in touch with Frank Codispoti ’77, Paul Kiely ’77, George Panasuk ’77, and Bob Shober ’80. He adds, “At this point in our lives, the kids are grown, and we’re enjoying the fruits of our labors, indulging ourselves in what we want to do. These RPI/Theta Chi friends have been friends for life. We’ve been there for each other in good times and not-so-good times. Relish those college years. The friends you make there are special.” Email him at [email protected]. (6839 Parklake Dr., Mason, OH 85040) “My wife Nicole and I just welcomed our second child, Oliver, to the family,” announces Roger Paul Jr. ’06. Send congratulations to [email protected] or 31 Denver Dr., West Sand Lake, NY 12196. He adds, “Mason is getting along great with his little brother.”
deceased H. Arthur Newton Jr. ’42 June 23, 2003
George H. Plate ’47 January 10, 2013
Carl Zillig ’52 August 13, 2013
Harry N. Donaldson ’43 notified September 2013
Theodore P. Capron ’48 May 21, 2013
Jerome V. Burchett ’59 November 10, 2011
Laurence S. Greene Jr. ’47 February 10, 2013
Richard Ern ’49 September 11, 2012
James R. Shanley ’07 September 18, 2013
Clement W. Sharek ’50 September 20, 2007
2 DELTA DIAL
Government Shutdown Can’t Stop Delta Chapter’s Alumni Weekend Celebration Dear Brothers: In the last Delta Dial I remarked how impressed I was with the current set of undergraduate officers, and I’m happy to report that, nearing the end of the fall semester, they continue to impress. As you can see from Scott Egglinger’s article, they are successfully juggling school, football, philanthropic events, and fun. Perhaps most important, they are setting a great example for the younger brothers in the house. Delta Chapter held another successful Alumni Weekend in early October, despite some very strong headwinds. The Homecoming football game was supposed to be against Liberty League opponent Merchant Marine, but the government shutdown forced the game to be cancelled at the last minute. After much discussion, we decided to go forward with our planned tailgate party at the house and dinner Saturday night at Revolution Hall in downtown Troy. It turned out to be the right decision, as almost everyone who had planned
to come still showed up. And an added benefit was that our alumni could take their time to see all the newly renovated bathrooms and bedrooms and chat with fellow Theta Chis, all afternoon in some cases! Many thanks to James Porambo ’08 and Casey Schuld ’14 for preparing a huge variety of delicious dishes for everyone. The dinner Saturday night was equally entertaining, as many undergrads and dates were able to mingle with the alumni. This is our third year holding the event at Revolution Hall, and it seems to work very well. The class of ’68 made a strong showing during the weekend, with nine brothers celebrating their 45th reunion. Also represented from five-year reunion classes were brothers from ’73, ’83, and ’93. We hope to see brothers from the 4s and 9s next year. The alumni corporation’s annual meeting was also held during that weekend, and James Porambo ’08 and John Postulka ’02 were voted on to the alumni board for a four-year term.
Left to right: Bill Fernandez ’68, Terry Jones ’66, and Rich Mowrey ’68 visited the house during Alumni Weekend.
James is also the chapter alumni advisor and has settled on a career locally. John is a lawyer now living in Maryland but has shown keen interest in giving his time to the fraternity. We look forward to working with both of these loyal alumni. And I want to thank Brian Blackmar ’03 and Brandon Bradley ’07 for their service to the alumni board—their counsel has been extremely valuable during their terms. As you can see elsewhere in this Dial, the renovations to the chapter house this summer came out great and on time, no small task indeed. We alumni are grateful to the construction crew, and the undergrads are extremely pleased with the results. This Second Century Capital Campaign has been a long slog, but I hope you all get a chance to see the chapter house one of these days. And we thank you as always for your generous contributions. Fraternally, Rich Boroway ’73 Delta Theta Chi Corporation President
Eric Raust ’83 (L) and Mike Hober ’83 (R) returned to RPI for their 30th reunion.
Summer 2013 Chapter House Renovations This summer the third phase of the Second Century Capital Campaign renovations was successfully completed. The first phase, begun in 2010, was the expansion of the parking lot, construction of new required storm drains, and landscaping by the front entrance. The second phase in 2011 involved the complete renovation of the kitchen. Both of these projects were important, but we knew all along that the renovation of the bathrooms and bedrooms would be the biggest, most important, and maybe the most problematic assignment. However, even with a crippling delay
in the delivery of the windows, our construction team pulled it off on budget and on schedule. A decision was made to allow the graduating seniors to spend their senior week in the house, which delayed initial demolition by several weeks. In May, the returning brothers had to move all their furniture and other personal items into various storage solutions (basement, living room, rented PODs), and everything had to be finished by the time the brothers returned for football practice two weeks before school started. Many thanks go to the team from Baron Construction Company (Bob Baron ’72) and our
architect on this job, Kurt Woodward ’75. This huge project fell into several categories: SAFETY • the entire chapter house now has sprinklers (not just the dorm section) • hard-wired smoke detectors • expanded the fire alarm system in both hallways • fire department-approved door numbers on every bedroom door • lofted beds that comply with new (continued on page six)
FALL 2013
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Alumni Scholarship Program News
2013-2014 Scholarships: Six Brothers Share $13,000 and attain a PhD in biomedical engineer- Society of Civil Engineers. Pat spent the ing. Concerning his time at 2100 Burdett spring 2013 semester studying abroad at Avenue, he particularly likes the camarade- the University of Leeds in London. His farie he feels among the brothers, and wel- vorite place at RPI is 2100 Burdett Avenue, comes the opportunity it provides to get a because all his best friends are there. He break from the classroom and be reminded can get help (or give help) with his studthat there are some less stressful aspects ies there, take a “sanity break” when he’s of college life. He also remarked: “I am getting too stressed over something, and very appreciative of the financial support get support there to help him deal with provided by the alumni brothers, not only and resolve almost any problem that comes for this valuable schol“Each alumnus I have met along. Regarding Pat’s reaction to receiving an arship but also for the has been a great role model, a alumni scholarship: “I recent improvements to source of great career advice, would like to thank all the chapter house, which have made it a much bet- and an inspiration to give back the alumni who have made this scholarship ter place in which to live, generously in the future.” possible. I think it’s awesome to see Delta study and relax.” Chapter alumni brothers helping out curTed Abriel came to Rensselaer from Scott Egglinger is a senior from rent brothers in an area that’s needed by Slingerlands, New York. He is a senior maEast Northport, Long Island, New York, the vast majority of students (and their parjoring in civil engineering. He is captain of majoring in mechanical engineering. He is ents) attending RPI. Thank you!!” RPI’s varsity football team and has been a the current chapter president and formerly starter all four of his years at RPI. Ted is Mark Scott is a junior from Rhinewas secretary. Scott also plays on RPI’s varvery appreciative of the tight bonds and the sity football team and was a participant in beck, New York, majoring in chemical ever-present support systems that his Theta RPI’s Relay For Life event to raise money engineering. His career plans include emChi brothers have provided, whether in the for the American Cancer Society. After ployment as a chemical engineer for a large classroom, on the football field, or prepargraduation, Scott plans to secure a position manufacturer and possibly also obtaining ing for life after RPI. After graduation he in industry that will develop and expand a MBA to enhance his ability to move up hopes to find a stable and upwardly mohis mechanical engineering skills while also into a senior management position. Mark bile position, one in which he can utilize allowing him to obtain his master’s degree played football for two years at RPI, but the training he has received at RPI and the in the evening. Scott is very glad he joined had to leave recently due to an injury. He strong work ethic he feels he has developed Theta Chi because of the close and lasting is glad to be a Theta Chi brother because during the last four years of having to balrelationships he has developed there. He of the ever-present support he receives from ance football with his studies. Ted is very also enjoys meeting brothers from other (or gives to) all of his brothers whenever grateful for the alumni scholarship and Theta Chi chapters be- problems of any kind arise. He is very apcomments: “I would like “It’s awesome to see Delta cause he finds he can preciative for receiving one of the alumni to sincerely thank all the immediately have a scholarships this year and adds: “I would alumni whose contribu- Chapter alumni brothers helpconversation with them like to thank the alumni for all their suping out current brothers in an tions have made these about common experi- port and especially for providing the fundscholarships possible. I area that’s needed by the vast ences and life lessons ing that makes these scholarships possible; look forward to being majority of students (and their learned. Scott says, and I intend to contribute back to this fund an active alumnus who parents) attending RPI.” “Thank you so much for as soon as I can afford it.” gives back both my time this scholarship and the contributions that and my financial support to future brothJay Yaskanich is a junior whose made it possible—and also for the recent ers, just as the current alumni have helped contributions that financed the much-need- hometown is none other than Troy, New me.” ed renovations to the chapter house. After York. He is a business and management major who has a multi-step career plan to I get on my feet financially, I am looking Garrett Clay is a senior who forward to giving back to Delta Chapter to get IT and/or general project-management hails from Salem, West Virginia, majorhelp repay all the support it provided dur- experience with a large company, obtain a ing in biomedical engineering. Garrett is master’s in entrepreneurship, enhance his ing my years at RPI.” an active member on the RPI Chapter of management consulting credentials, and the Global Medical Brigades, the world’s Patrick Lyons is a senior from Bev- then, at some point, start his own busilargest student-led health and sustainable erly, Massachusetts, majoring in civil en- ness. Jay is currently chapter vice president, development organization. The organizagineering. After graduation, Pat hopes to formerly the chapter philanthropy chair, a tion’s primary goals are the development of secure a position as a geotechnical-drilling varsity football player, and a participant in sustainable health initiatives and providing specialist with a large engineering compa- RPI’s Relay For Life event to raise money relief in areas where there is limited access ny. Pat was on RPI’s varsity football team for the American Cancer Society. He is also to health care. He is also an enthusiastic for three years and is also an active mem- actively involved in Delta Chapter’s support member of RPI’s Ultimate Frisbee Club. Afber of the RPI Chapter of the American of the after-school program at the Sunnyside ter RPI he plans to continue with his studies
The full cost of attending RPI is now over $60,000 per year, and more than 80 percent of Rensselaer’s undergraduate students are on some form of financial aid. As a result, the Scholarship Committee for the Delta Chapter Theta Chi Fraternity Scholarship Fund was happy to announce at last spring’s meeting of the alumni corporation board that alumni scholarships totaling $13,000 were awarded to six undergraduate Delta Chapter brothers for the 2013-2014 school year. A short biography of each winner follows.
4 DELTA DIAL
Thanks to all of our Supporters We want to thank all of those alumni whose gifts to this valuable program have made it the success it has become. Between its inception in 1996 and November 1, 2013, over $255,000 has been contributed by 177 Delta Chapter alumni. Over $136,000 has been awarded to 73 Delta Chapter undergraduates, and the market value of this fund (which, as a part of Rensselaer’s Endowment, shares in its annual income and appreciation) has grown to over $280,000. In addition, we want to individually acknowledge the following alumni whose total giving to date has reached one of our various Leadership levels.
Dusty rhodes society
(Lifetime contributions of $25,000 and over)
Scholarship Benefactors
(Lifetime contributions of $10,000–$24,999) Arthur Wills ’55 The classes of 1960–1966, in memory of Nicholas Humber ’63 Rich Bollam ’66 Kurt Hollasch ’67 Greg Seleman ’72 Kenneth Schmalz ’76
Scholarship Patrons
(Lifetime contributions of $5,000–$9,999) The Graham Williams ’52 Memorial Fund Joel Walker ’60 Catherine Whittemore, in honor of her son, Allan Whittemore ’61 Charles Tracy ’64 William Follit ’66 Terry Jones ’66 Nick Donofrio ’67
Scholarship Sponsors
(Lifetime contributions of $2,500–$4,999) Sheldon Roberts ’48 Everett Molony ’63 Roland Garlinghouse ’66 Harry Calhoun ’67 Greg Hughes ’67 Paul McLaughlin ’67 Pete Perucci ’68 Sergei Yevich ’68 Michael Gonzalez ’69
William Nareski ’70 Richard Podolec ’70 Richard Spillane ’72 Bob Wright ’72, in memory of his wife Deborah David Uhlig ’83 Wesley Kern ’89
Scholarship Leaders
(Lifetime contributions of $1,000–$2,499) Robert Lukens ’38 Fred Crossman ’43 James Bryce ’44 Henry Schnabel ’50 James Hamilton ’55 Eugene Fuller ’57 Louis Takacs ’57 Robert McIntosh ’60 Allan Whittemore ’61 David Steele ’62 Frederick Boehm ’63 William Stitt ’63 Stanley Lewczyk ’64 Gordon McIntosh ’64 Joseph Bonn ’65 Jeffrey Brown ’65 Jay Jackson ’66 Van Thompson ’66 John Casteras ’67 John Isaac ’67 Ned VanHeuvel ’67 Bill Fernandez ’68 Richard Mowrey ’68 Terry Rostker ’68 Jan Pirrong ’69
Pete Perucci, in memory of his brother, Tom Perucci ’70 Mark Rice ’71 Robert Baron ’72 Richard Marra ’72 Melford Placilla ’72 Peter Skiff ’72 Richard Boroway ’73 John Lippold ’73 Carl Nasca ’73 Chris Vasiloff ’73 William McIntyre ’74 Kurt Woodward ’75 Stoyan Lokar ’77 James Fortune ’80 Kevin Horne ’81 Dominick Conde ’82 Lew French ’83 William Clem ’84 William Connor ’84 Joseph Johnson ’84 Stanley Kaplita ’84 Peter Gillies ’89 Paul DiChristina ’91 Joe Missbrenner ’93 Michael R. Phinney ’95 Drew Spitzer ’96 Matthew Dias ’99
Scholarship Sustainers
(Testamentary contributions of $5,000 or more) John Casteras ’67 Ray Rumanowski ’73
Alumni Scholarship Program News, cont’d Day Care Center. Jay is very happy to have joined Theta Chi. It has become a very big part of his life, providing him with an outlet to escape the everyday stresses of the rigorous academic requirements at RPI. Now that he has started to meet Delta Chapter alumni, Jay is realizing that the future holds even more reasons to be thankful. Regarding the alumni scholarship, Jay says, “First, I want to thank the alumni for this direct financial assistance, and second, I offer another big thank you for funding the many necessary improvements to the 54-year-old chapter house. Each alumnus I have met has been a great role model, a source of great career advice, and an inspiration to give back generously in the future.”
Continuing Support is Always Needed and Appreciated With the payoff of the final installments of five-year pledges to the Second Century Campaign nearly complete, we will be selectively soliciting alumni for contributions to the Alumni Scholarship Fund in 2014. For those of you who completed your Second Century Campaign pledge several years ago and want to start (or continue) to support this increasingly valuable scholarship program in 2013, please send your tax-deductible contribution to: Jackie Pierce, Senior Advancement Officer, Chasen Building, 2nd Floor, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street/ Troy, NY 12180-3590. NOTE: Please make your check payable to RPI, but be sure to indicate “For Theta Chi Scholarship Fund” on the memo line (or with a separate note). Also, remember that if your employer has an educational gift-matching program, most will match this gift because it is through RPI (and if they ask what it’s for, just say “for scholarships”). If you have questions about appreciated stock (or other non-cash gifts) or anything else, call Rich Bollam ’66 at (800) 724-6700, ext. 303.
FALL 2013
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Summer 2013 Chapter House Renovations, cont’d. (from page three) NY state standards • asbestos remediation to deal with asbestos found in the outside walls BATHROOMS IN DORM SECTION • both bathrooms were gutted and all new plumbing, tiled flooring, toilets, and walls were installed • the shower area was modernized with four individual stalls • the urinals were moved away from the front windows (!) BEDROOMS • all of the built-in lofts and closets were removed, and the walls were taken down to the studs • new electrical distribution was installed, along with new internet wiring; phone lines were abandoned • the entire heating system was removed and replaced with a new double-pipe design and radiator that
Installing new windows.
heat more evenly from room to room • insulation was added to all the walls between bedrooms, which will help lower noise from room to room • wall and floor surfaces are all new • a new window design should help with insulation and security (two double-hung windows with a picture window in the middle, rather than the sliding windows before); screens and miniblinds throughout • any brother who wanted new furniture was able to choose a desk, chair, lofted bed, wardrobe or dresser • every room received a new door and lock system HALLWAYS • all the surfaces were stripped down and refinished • four new wireless routers were installed to allow internet access for all the brothers • new lighting on both floors
Burying new water main.
Hallways during and after renovation.
6 DELTA DIAL
MISCELLANEOUS • the Dusty Room was refurbished and equipped with internet access and a new dropped ceiling. • a new water line was required to accommodate the sprinkler system; this entailed work by the City of Troy under Burdett Avenue, and the digging up of a large section of the front lawn to bring in a new 6-inch pipe This has been a long haul for many loyal Theta Chi volunteers, but it has been an effort of love. We hope that all of you can eventually stop by the house and see the fruits of our labor. The main public sections of the house (living room, dining room, foyer, basement) have not been addressed, so we are always looking for financial help from all of you. If you are interested in donating for future projects, please contact Rich Boroway ’73. The Building Committee
New bedroom furniture.
The finished bathroom.
Delta Dial
Delta Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity at Rensselaer • Fall 2013
Undergrads Remain Active in School and Community
Left to right: John Wetmiller ’68, Diana Balough, Debby and Jim Clapper ’68, Nancy and Bill Ablondi ’68, Terry Roskter ’68, and Nic Balough ’68 celebrating their 45th reunion.
Bill Moller ’53 (visiting the Burdett Ave. chapter house for the very first time) in the newly renovated Dusty Room.
Left to right: Dan Moellman ’74, Rick Rice ’76, and Steve Myers ’75 returned to RPI for Alumni Weekend.
First and foremost, on behalf of all the un- Relay for Life. This semester what used to be known as dergraduate brothers, I would like to extend an enormous “thank you” to all the alumni who Greek Weekend was changed to Greek Week. made these amazing renovations possible. Ev- Each night of the week consisted of different eryone is enjoying the new rooms, bathrooms, events, such as bowling, trivia, softball, etc. and furniture. This fall 19 promising young There were four teams made up of different somen pledged Theta Chi, and the renovations rorities and fraternities. Our team won overall first place, and Theta Chi won an individual played a big role in their decision. We’ve held two large philanthropy events award for cancer awareness. Theta Chi is also this semester in which we raised over $1,700. making waves in IFC football this season, as we First was our second annual Wing Fest. This are currently undefeated and looking to make a was a joint event with Pi Beta Phi Sorority in run at the championship. For the first time in a which different groups “This fall 19 promising long while, we hosted a such as other fraternities and sports teams made young men pledged Theta Chi, Parents Weekend at the house, with catering help their own wings. We held and the renovations played a from David Gardell ‘99, this event outside the big role in their decision.” owner of The Ruck (forfootball stadium before a game. People bought tickets to taste the wings merly known as Sutter’s). We thought it would and then voted on the ones they liked the best. be a good tradition to bring back, especially There were categories for best wing, hottest with the house looking as great as it does. We wing, and most original wing. Greek Dean filled the common room with tables and chairs Matthew Hunt served as one of the judges. and invited our parents to the house after the We raised $600 and won the prize for hottest football game. Many of the undergraduates and wing. We will be using this money to throw a I were personally thanked by the parents and Christmas party for the Sunnyside after-school were told how much they enjoyed it. We plan program in downtown Troy, a program we’ve on keeping this going as a Theta Chi tradition. As in the past, we have many brothers supported for a few years, as reported on in excelling on the varsity football team, which previous Delta Dial issues. Our second major event for the semester closed out an up-and-down season with a was called Cross Dress for Breasts, in support huge win over Union, 31-28! Teddy Abriel of breast cancer research, which we co-spon- ‘14 is one of the key players on defense as well sored with the women’s lacrosse team. In this as one of the team’s captains. He and Nick event, 12 brothers participated in a fashion Borkowski (DB) ’15 both earned First Team show, and what they wore depended on how Liberty League honors, and Jay Yaskanich much money they raised in the weeks prior. For (OL) ’15 made Second Team. In addition, example, if the brother raised $10 he had to several brothers have made Delta Chapter dye his hair pink, if he raised $30 he had to dye very proud by being named to the League Allhis hair and paint his nails pink. As the money Academic Team: Austin Amery ’16, Borkowgot higher the articles of clothing got more fem- ski, Matt Brown ’14, Logan Gaddar ’16, Pat inine. This was a big hit, and we were able to Hogan ’16, Matt Lane ’16, Casey McHugh ’16, Seth Stauble ’16, and Yaskanich. raise $1,185 to help battle breast cancer. My term as the undergraduate president Recently, we helped Sunnyside throw a Halloween party. We played games with the is coming to an end. I have truly enjoyed my kids, such as doughnut on a string and bobbing time representing Delta Chapter. I would like to for apples, and painted their faces “scary.” We thank all of you for your undying support and also bought bags for them to decorate and use dedication to our beloved chapter. If you are trick-or-treating. We look forward to our an- ever in town, please stop by the house and share nual Christmas party there. We will serve food, some stories of your time here at Rensselaer. dress up as Santa Claus, give out gifts, and help Fraternally yours, the kids make ornaments. Next semester we Scott Egglinger ’14 will hold our second annual Lift-a-Thon to Undergraduate President raise money for the American Cancer Society’s
Alumni News
CORPORATION BOARD
Delta Theta Chi Corporation Board of Directors
ALUMNI MEMBERS Rich Boroway ’73, president/treasurer [email protected] Pat Doyle ’02, vice president [email protected] Roger Paul ’06, secretary [email protected] Dave Gardell ’99 [email protected] James Porambo ’08 [email protected] John Postulka ’02 [email protected] Gordon Reynolds ’09 [email protected] Scott Sasenbury ’97 [email protected]
UNDERGRADUATE MEMBERS
From Rhode Island W. Malcolm Gray ’40 writes: “My wife and I live in a retirement home with a daughter living in a nearby town.” Mal was hoping to get in touch with classmate Doug Ronaldson ’40. With many of Mal’s friends scattered across the country, he would welcome contact from Delta Chapter brothers by email ([email protected]) or 612 George Washington Hwy., #302, Lincoln, RI 02856. “It’s been a while,” reports Carl E. “Weed” Wideberg ’72. After a long sales executive career with IBM, AT&T, MCI, Dun & Bradstreet, and Global Compliance, Carl started his own company, iSalesman, a social network for sales people. Carl adds that he’s still happily married to Theta Chi Sweetheart Dawn after 36 years, with two daughters and three grandkids. “Still moving between Naples, Charlotte, and Spring Lake, New Jersey. ‘Going where the weather suits my clothes.’ Wishing all of my brothers of Delta Chapter well.” Catch up with “Weed” by email at [email protected] or postal mail: 8414 Mallards Way, Naples, FL 34114. Brother Christopher P. “Sly” Vasiloff ’73 has done it again! On September 1-6, 2013, he and Rick Tarnow, John Lippold, and Carl Nasca (all ’73), Larry Maver ’71, and their wives got together in Provence, France, for their planned biking adventure. Writes Chris, “The highlight of the trip was climbing the famous Mt. Ventoux [see photo]. We have been doing a variety of trips for the past three years. Let us know if any of you are interested in joining future trips.”
Scott Egglinger ’14, president [email protected] Jay Yaskanich ’15, vice president [email protected] Nick Borkowski ’15, treasurer [email protected]
ADVISORS Rich Bollam ’66, scholarship fund director [email protected] Rich Boroway ’73, financial advisor and AIGC rep [email protected] James Porambo ’08, chapter advisor [email protected] Scott Sasenbury ’97, faculty advisor [email protected] Craig Woolhiser ’86, communications director [email protected]
Brothers atop Mt. Ventoux in Provence, France, during their biking adventure.
([email protected]; 17613 Westward Reach Rd., Cornelius, NC 28031)
Stoy’s retirement party at Paul Kiely’s house in Phoenix (left to right): George “Sarge” Panasuk (standing), Steve “Ma” Connors (our RPI football buddy), Frank “Gouche” Codispoti, Stoy, Paul “PK” Kiely, Bob “Shobs” Shober. Congratulations to Stoyan Lokar ’77, who has retired after a 35-year career with Procter & Gamble. “Most of my career was in engineering, with my last job being director of mechanical technologies. I ran a development lab that built prototype machines that made our consumer product. I had a blast. It was like a playland for mechanical engineers. But life is short, and I wanted to have time to do/ try other things.” He’s been traveling to see friends and family, has done some “muscle car and motorcycle stuff” and home improvements, and is still an avid weightlifter—“on most lifts I’m 90–95% of the weight I did in college.” Stoy keeps in touch with Frank Codispoti ’77, Paul Kiely ’77, George Panasuk ’77, and Bob Shober ’80. He adds, “At this point in our lives, the kids are grown, and we’re enjoying the fruits of our labors, indulging ourselves in what we want to do. These RPI/Theta Chi friends have been friends for life. We’ve been there for each other in good times and not-so-good times. Relish those college years. The friends you make there are special.” Email him at [email protected]. (6839 Parklake Dr., Mason, OH 85040) “My wife Nicole and I just welcomed our second child, Oliver, to the family,” announces Roger Paul Jr. ’06. Send congratulations to [email protected] or 31 Denver Dr., West Sand Lake, NY 12196. He adds, “Mason is getting along great with his little brother.”
deceased H. Arthur Newton Jr. ’42 June 23, 2003
George H. Plate ’47 January 10, 2013
Carl Zillig ’52 August 13, 2013
Harry N. Donaldson ’43 notified September 2013
Theodore P. Capron ’48 May 21, 2013
Jerome V. Burchett ’59 November 10, 2011
Laurence S. Greene Jr. ’47 February 10, 2013
Richard Ern ’49 September 11, 2012
James R. Shanley ’07 September 18, 2013
Clement W. Sharek ’50 September 20, 2007
2 DELTA DIAL
Government Shutdown Can’t Stop Delta Chapter’s Alumni Weekend Celebration Dear Brothers: In the last Delta Dial I remarked how impressed I was with the current set of undergraduate officers, and I’m happy to report that, nearing the end of the fall semester, they continue to impress. As you can see from Scott Egglinger’s article, they are successfully juggling school, football, philanthropic events, and fun. Perhaps most important, they are setting a great example for the younger brothers in the house. Delta Chapter held another successful Alumni Weekend in early October, despite some very strong headwinds. The Homecoming football game was supposed to be against Liberty League opponent Merchant Marine, but the government shutdown forced the game to be cancelled at the last minute. After much discussion, we decided to go forward with our planned tailgate party at the house and dinner Saturday night at Revolution Hall in downtown Troy. It turned out to be the right decision, as almost everyone who had planned
to come still showed up. And an added benefit was that our alumni could take their time to see all the newly renovated bathrooms and bedrooms and chat with fellow Theta Chis, all afternoon in some cases! Many thanks to James Porambo ’08 and Casey Schuld ’14 for preparing a huge variety of delicious dishes for everyone. The dinner Saturday night was equally entertaining, as many undergrads and dates were able to mingle with the alumni. This is our third year holding the event at Revolution Hall, and it seems to work very well. The class of ’68 made a strong showing during the weekend, with nine brothers celebrating their 45th reunion. Also represented from five-year reunion classes were brothers from ’73, ’83, and ’93. We hope to see brothers from the 4s and 9s next year. The alumni corporation’s annual meeting was also held during that weekend, and James Porambo ’08 and John Postulka ’02 were voted on to the alumni board for a four-year term.
Left to right: Bill Fernandez ’68, Terry Jones ’66, and Rich Mowrey ’68 visited the house during Alumni Weekend.
James is also the chapter alumni advisor and has settled on a career locally. John is a lawyer now living in Maryland but has shown keen interest in giving his time to the fraternity. We look forward to working with both of these loyal alumni. And I want to thank Brian Blackmar ’03 and Brandon Bradley ’07 for their service to the alumni board—their counsel has been extremely valuable during their terms. As you can see elsewhere in this Dial, the renovations to the chapter house this summer came out great and on time, no small task indeed. We alumni are grateful to the construction crew, and the undergrads are extremely pleased with the results. This Second Century Capital Campaign has been a long slog, but I hope you all get a chance to see the chapter house one of these days. And we thank you as always for your generous contributions. Fraternally, Rich Boroway ’73 Delta Theta Chi Corporation President
Eric Raust ’83 (L) and Mike Hober ’83 (R) returned to RPI for their 30th reunion.
Summer 2013 Chapter House Renovations This summer the third phase of the Second Century Capital Campaign renovations was successfully completed. The first phase, begun in 2010, was the expansion of the parking lot, construction of new required storm drains, and landscaping by the front entrance. The second phase in 2011 involved the complete renovation of the kitchen. Both of these projects were important, but we knew all along that the renovation of the bathrooms and bedrooms would be the biggest, most important, and maybe the most problematic assignment. However, even with a crippling delay
in the delivery of the windows, our construction team pulled it off on budget and on schedule. A decision was made to allow the graduating seniors to spend their senior week in the house, which delayed initial demolition by several weeks. In May, the returning brothers had to move all their furniture and other personal items into various storage solutions (basement, living room, rented PODs), and everything had to be finished by the time the brothers returned for football practice two weeks before school started. Many thanks go to the team from Baron Construction Company (Bob Baron ’72) and our
architect on this job, Kurt Woodward ’75. This huge project fell into several categories: SAFETY • the entire chapter house now has sprinklers (not just the dorm section) • hard-wired smoke detectors • expanded the fire alarm system in both hallways • fire department-approved door numbers on every bedroom door • lofted beds that comply with new (continued on page six)
FALL 2013
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Alumni Scholarship Program News
2013-2014 Scholarships: Six Brothers Share $13,000 and attain a PhD in biomedical engineer- Society of Civil Engineers. Pat spent the ing. Concerning his time at 2100 Burdett spring 2013 semester studying abroad at Avenue, he particularly likes the camarade- the University of Leeds in London. His farie he feels among the brothers, and wel- vorite place at RPI is 2100 Burdett Avenue, comes the opportunity it provides to get a because all his best friends are there. He break from the classroom and be reminded can get help (or give help) with his studthat there are some less stressful aspects ies there, take a “sanity break” when he’s of college life. He also remarked: “I am getting too stressed over something, and very appreciative of the financial support get support there to help him deal with provided by the alumni brothers, not only and resolve almost any problem that comes for this valuable schol“Each alumnus I have met along. Regarding Pat’s reaction to receiving an arship but also for the has been a great role model, a alumni scholarship: “I recent improvements to source of great career advice, would like to thank all the chapter house, which have made it a much bet- and an inspiration to give back the alumni who have made this scholarship ter place in which to live, generously in the future.” possible. I think it’s awesome to see Delta study and relax.” Chapter alumni brothers helping out curTed Abriel came to Rensselaer from Scott Egglinger is a senior from rent brothers in an area that’s needed by Slingerlands, New York. He is a senior maEast Northport, Long Island, New York, the vast majority of students (and their parjoring in civil engineering. He is captain of majoring in mechanical engineering. He is ents) attending RPI. Thank you!!” RPI’s varsity football team and has been a the current chapter president and formerly starter all four of his years at RPI. Ted is Mark Scott is a junior from Rhinewas secretary. Scott also plays on RPI’s varvery appreciative of the tight bonds and the sity football team and was a participant in beck, New York, majoring in chemical ever-present support systems that his Theta RPI’s Relay For Life event to raise money engineering. His career plans include emChi brothers have provided, whether in the for the American Cancer Society. After ployment as a chemical engineer for a large classroom, on the football field, or prepargraduation, Scott plans to secure a position manufacturer and possibly also obtaining ing for life after RPI. After graduation he in industry that will develop and expand a MBA to enhance his ability to move up hopes to find a stable and upwardly mohis mechanical engineering skills while also into a senior management position. Mark bile position, one in which he can utilize allowing him to obtain his master’s degree played football for two years at RPI, but the training he has received at RPI and the in the evening. Scott is very glad he joined had to leave recently due to an injury. He strong work ethic he feels he has developed Theta Chi because of the close and lasting is glad to be a Theta Chi brother because during the last four years of having to balrelationships he has developed there. He of the ever-present support he receives from ance football with his studies. Ted is very also enjoys meeting brothers from other (or gives to) all of his brothers whenever grateful for the alumni scholarship and Theta Chi chapters be- problems of any kind arise. He is very apcomments: “I would like “It’s awesome to see Delta cause he finds he can preciative for receiving one of the alumni to sincerely thank all the immediately have a scholarships this year and adds: “I would alumni whose contribu- Chapter alumni brothers helpconversation with them like to thank the alumni for all their suping out current brothers in an tions have made these about common experi- port and especially for providing the fundscholarships possible. I area that’s needed by the vast ences and life lessons ing that makes these scholarships possible; look forward to being majority of students (and their learned. Scott says, and I intend to contribute back to this fund an active alumnus who parents) attending RPI.” “Thank you so much for as soon as I can afford it.” gives back both my time this scholarship and the contributions that and my financial support to future brothJay Yaskanich is a junior whose made it possible—and also for the recent ers, just as the current alumni have helped contributions that financed the much-need- hometown is none other than Troy, New me.” ed renovations to the chapter house. After York. He is a business and management major who has a multi-step career plan to I get on my feet financially, I am looking Garrett Clay is a senior who forward to giving back to Delta Chapter to get IT and/or general project-management hails from Salem, West Virginia, majorhelp repay all the support it provided dur- experience with a large company, obtain a ing in biomedical engineering. Garrett is master’s in entrepreneurship, enhance his ing my years at RPI.” an active member on the RPI Chapter of management consulting credentials, and the Global Medical Brigades, the world’s Patrick Lyons is a senior from Bev- then, at some point, start his own busilargest student-led health and sustainable erly, Massachusetts, majoring in civil en- ness. Jay is currently chapter vice president, development organization. The organizagineering. After graduation, Pat hopes to formerly the chapter philanthropy chair, a tion’s primary goals are the development of secure a position as a geotechnical-drilling varsity football player, and a participant in sustainable health initiatives and providing specialist with a large engineering compa- RPI’s Relay For Life event to raise money relief in areas where there is limited access ny. Pat was on RPI’s varsity football team for the American Cancer Society. He is also to health care. He is also an enthusiastic for three years and is also an active mem- actively involved in Delta Chapter’s support member of RPI’s Ultimate Frisbee Club. Afber of the RPI Chapter of the American of the after-school program at the Sunnyside ter RPI he plans to continue with his studies
The full cost of attending RPI is now over $60,000 per year, and more than 80 percent of Rensselaer’s undergraduate students are on some form of financial aid. As a result, the Scholarship Committee for the Delta Chapter Theta Chi Fraternity Scholarship Fund was happy to announce at last spring’s meeting of the alumni corporation board that alumni scholarships totaling $13,000 were awarded to six undergraduate Delta Chapter brothers for the 2013-2014 school year. A short biography of each winner follows.
4 DELTA DIAL
Thanks to all of our Supporters We want to thank all of those alumni whose gifts to this valuable program have made it the success it has become. Between its inception in 1996 and November 1, 2013, over $255,000 has been contributed by 177 Delta Chapter alumni. Over $136,000 has been awarded to 73 Delta Chapter undergraduates, and the market value of this fund (which, as a part of Rensselaer’s Endowment, shares in its annual income and appreciation) has grown to over $280,000. In addition, we want to individually acknowledge the following alumni whose total giving to date has reached one of our various Leadership levels.
Dusty rhodes society
(Lifetime contributions of $25,000 and over)
Scholarship Benefactors
(Lifetime contributions of $10,000–$24,999) Arthur Wills ’55 The classes of 1960–1966, in memory of Nicholas Humber ’63 Rich Bollam ’66 Kurt Hollasch ’67 Greg Seleman ’72 Kenneth Schmalz ’76
Scholarship Patrons
(Lifetime contributions of $5,000–$9,999) The Graham Williams ’52 Memorial Fund Joel Walker ’60 Catherine Whittemore, in honor of her son, Allan Whittemore ’61 Charles Tracy ’64 William Follit ’66 Terry Jones ’66 Nick Donofrio ’67
Scholarship Sponsors
(Lifetime contributions of $2,500–$4,999) Sheldon Roberts ’48 Everett Molony ’63 Roland Garlinghouse ’66 Harry Calhoun ’67 Greg Hughes ’67 Paul McLaughlin ’67 Pete Perucci ’68 Sergei Yevich ’68 Michael Gonzalez ’69
William Nareski ’70 Richard Podolec ’70 Richard Spillane ’72 Bob Wright ’72, in memory of his wife Deborah David Uhlig ’83 Wesley Kern ’89
Scholarship Leaders
(Lifetime contributions of $1,000–$2,499) Robert Lukens ’38 Fred Crossman ’43 James Bryce ’44 Henry Schnabel ’50 James Hamilton ’55 Eugene Fuller ’57 Louis Takacs ’57 Robert McIntosh ’60 Allan Whittemore ’61 David Steele ’62 Frederick Boehm ’63 William Stitt ’63 Stanley Lewczyk ’64 Gordon McIntosh ’64 Joseph Bonn ’65 Jeffrey Brown ’65 Jay Jackson ’66 Van Thompson ’66 John Casteras ’67 John Isaac ’67 Ned VanHeuvel ’67 Bill Fernandez ’68 Richard Mowrey ’68 Terry Rostker ’68 Jan Pirrong ’69
Pete Perucci, in memory of his brother, Tom Perucci ’70 Mark Rice ’71 Robert Baron ’72 Richard Marra ’72 Melford Placilla ’72 Peter Skiff ’72 Richard Boroway ’73 John Lippold ’73 Carl Nasca ’73 Chris Vasiloff ’73 William McIntyre ’74 Kurt Woodward ’75 Stoyan Lokar ’77 James Fortune ’80 Kevin Horne ’81 Dominick Conde ’82 Lew French ’83 William Clem ’84 William Connor ’84 Joseph Johnson ’84 Stanley Kaplita ’84 Peter Gillies ’89 Paul DiChristina ’91 Joe Missbrenner ’93 Michael R. Phinney ’95 Drew Spitzer ’96 Matthew Dias ’99
Scholarship Sustainers
(Testamentary contributions of $5,000 or more) John Casteras ’67 Ray Rumanowski ’73
Alumni Scholarship Program News, cont’d Day Care Center. Jay is very happy to have joined Theta Chi. It has become a very big part of his life, providing him with an outlet to escape the everyday stresses of the rigorous academic requirements at RPI. Now that he has started to meet Delta Chapter alumni, Jay is realizing that the future holds even more reasons to be thankful. Regarding the alumni scholarship, Jay says, “First, I want to thank the alumni for this direct financial assistance, and second, I offer another big thank you for funding the many necessary improvements to the 54-year-old chapter house. Each alumnus I have met has been a great role model, a source of great career advice, and an inspiration to give back generously in the future.”
Continuing Support is Always Needed and Appreciated With the payoff of the final installments of five-year pledges to the Second Century Campaign nearly complete, we will be selectively soliciting alumni for contributions to the Alumni Scholarship Fund in 2014. For those of you who completed your Second Century Campaign pledge several years ago and want to start (or continue) to support this increasingly valuable scholarship program in 2013, please send your tax-deductible contribution to: Jackie Pierce, Senior Advancement Officer, Chasen Building, 2nd Floor, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street/ Troy, NY 12180-3590. NOTE: Please make your check payable to RPI, but be sure to indicate “For Theta Chi Scholarship Fund” on the memo line (or with a separate note). Also, remember that if your employer has an educational gift-matching program, most will match this gift because it is through RPI (and if they ask what it’s for, just say “for scholarships”). If you have questions about appreciated stock (or other non-cash gifts) or anything else, call Rich Bollam ’66 at (800) 724-6700, ext. 303.
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Summer 2013 Chapter House Renovations, cont’d. (from page three) NY state standards • asbestos remediation to deal with asbestos found in the outside walls BATHROOMS IN DORM SECTION • both bathrooms were gutted and all new plumbing, tiled flooring, toilets, and walls were installed • the shower area was modernized with four individual stalls • the urinals were moved away from the front windows (!) BEDROOMS • all of the built-in lofts and closets were removed, and the walls were taken down to the studs • new electrical distribution was installed, along with new internet wiring; phone lines were abandoned • the entire heating system was removed and replaced with a new double-pipe design and radiator that
Installing new windows.
heat more evenly from room to room • insulation was added to all the walls between bedrooms, which will help lower noise from room to room • wall and floor surfaces are all new • a new window design should help with insulation and security (two double-hung windows with a picture window in the middle, rather than the sliding windows before); screens and miniblinds throughout • any brother who wanted new furniture was able to choose a desk, chair, lofted bed, wardrobe or dresser • every room received a new door and lock system HALLWAYS • all the surfaces were stripped down and refinished • four new wireless routers were installed to allow internet access for all the brothers • new lighting on both floors
Burying new water main.
Hallways during and after renovation.
6 DELTA DIAL
MISCELLANEOUS • the Dusty Room was refurbished and equipped with internet access and a new dropped ceiling. • a new water line was required to accommodate the sprinkler system; this entailed work by the City of Troy under Burdett Avenue, and the digging up of a large section of the front lawn to bring in a new 6-inch pipe This has been a long haul for many loyal Theta Chi volunteers, but it has been an effort of love. We hope that all of you can eventually stop by the house and see the fruits of our labor. The main public sections of the house (living room, dining room, foyer, basement) have not been addressed, so we are always looking for financial help from all of you. If you are interested in donating for future projects, please contact Rich Boroway ’73. The Building Committee
New bedroom furniture.
The finished bathroom.
