The Talk of Convention

Editor's Note: The John Carroll Colony of Beta Theta Pi received its charter after a unanimous vote of the delegates to the 171st General Convention, held outside of Washington, D.C. One advisor reflects on this momentous occasion.

How sweet it was! The 171st General Convention of Beta Theta Pi held in Arlington, Virginia August 5-8, 2010 was a most memorable occasion for all John Carroll Betas and advisors. 21 actives, alumni, and advisors attended this exciting event and helped celebrate the chartering of the Eta Epsilon Chapter...that's right...Chapter - not Colony.

The chapter's presentation team of Andy Lane, Nathan Catalano, J.J. Kuczynski, and Kyle Sobh was outstanding in its early morning presentation to the Charters Subcommittee. I have attended many of these chartering review sessions over the years and there have been none better. Not only did the committee give swift approval of its recommendation for chartering but the convention delegates also acted quickly without anyone raising any objections. Putting it in perspective, this was not the case with any of the other three colonies applying for charters this year. So...three years since October 1, 2007 to August 6, 2010 boiled down to three hours from presentation to chartering to a hearty welcome ("There's a Scene Where Brothers Greet...") into the convention legislative halls of Beta Theta Pi.

What may have seemed like an eternity - 3 years - was well worth it for all John Carroll Betas who worked hard to achieve this ultimate goal. And for those who worked on the Chartering Petition, it was a knockout.

But there is more! An hour or so later, the Awards Luncheon was held and Eta Epsilon received 6 awards which was great recognition for the newest chapter of Beta Theta Pi. J.J. and Andy were the featured speakers and their presentations were excellent. The "Reserved JOHN CARROLL" table signs told the story - no other chapter had that.

All in all, Eta Epsilon was the talk of convention. And why not?!?

I have worked with several chapters over the years and - without a doubt - Eta Epsilon has been the most rewarding. There is excellent rapport with advisors, a great deal of enthusiasm, outstanding undergraduates, and a desire to "just do it" and be the best.

The goal now is to keep the momentum going. This is just the beginning. Many opportunities exist for Eta Epsilon to shine in 2010-2011 - Chapter installation, Sisson Award, Knox Award, housing - as well as campus and community activities along with high academic achievement which are now part of Eta Epsilon's profile.

Congratulations to the entire chapter!

Reflection by Joe Chinnici, Ohio State '64

Eta Epsilon Financial Advisor