Dear Brothers,

We have much exciting news to report! Although we have not communicated with all our alumni in writing for several months, the silence does not mean there has been no activity. Indeed, quite the opposite is true and I would like to share some of the highlights.

Changing of the Guard
After many dedicated years of service, at the Homecoming 2004 alumni meeting Ed Brown stepped down after many years as president of Theta Chi of Penn State, Inc. Also, Jim Stuhltrager will be stepping down as treasurer but we must have a replacement before he can deservedly do so. We thank both these men for their faithful commitment to Omega for so many years! I, Dennis Foley ’91, am pleased to be serving as your new president, with Chris Zegar ’04 as secretary. The role of vice president is also open. It is crucial that we have a complete board so we can function properly and I ask you to please contact me if you are willing to spare a short amount of time for a good cause. Again, Brother Stuhltrager certainly deserves a break but we must have a replacement, so please contact me today if you can help (412-414-3031). It is a very exciting time to be involved with Omega, as you will learn as you read on!

The Chapter: A Strong Foundation is Being Laid
We are happy to report that we are growing once again at Penn State. We have a strong undergraduate chapter which has succeeded in tripling its membership in the past two years. With 19 active brothers and five new members, they are representing Theta Chi on Penn State’s campus in a very positive way. Their academic achievements, combined with their recent philanthropic activities and recruitment efforts, deserve to be recognized.I encourage you to take the time to contact Chapter President Avi Sadiky with your comments or suggestions, or to even share a favorite Theta Chi memory. Avi can be reached by phone at 814-574-0647 or by email. He would love to hear from you!

Renovations to House a Growing Chapter
We see this time of chapter growth as a time to begin increasing occupancy in the house. As a result of recent house improvements, and more to come this summer, we are striving to fill the house by September. Renovation plans have been approved by the local code authority, and we will be expanding occupancy on the second floor by opening the south end of the hallway. This work will be completed in time for the students’ return in the fall. So far, we have approximately 14 brothers signing leases now for Fall 2005. The need for furnishings for the undergraduates is a large part of this project and we appreciate any help you can provide in this area.Penn State Displays Greek Pride Significant strides are being made at the University level regarding Greek life. Penn State has been actively engaged in strengthening the Greek community through the Greek Pride initiative and we are greatly encouraged by the progress that is being made. Please visit the following sites for more information and updates on Greek life at Penn State:

http://www.sa.psu.edu/greekpride
http://live.psu.edu/story/9825

Join Us for Upcoming Events
The alumni board and undergraduates are working together to plan increased alumni events (including regional get-together's) in an effort to reconnect more alumni and help them stay connected. Plans are already being made for Homecoming 2005, so mark your calendars to return to Penn State on October 29 when Penn State looks to avenge the Boilermakers for last year’s disappointing loss. In the meantime, make plans to join us for Blue/White Game on April 23 and the Theta Chi Open May 6-7.

What You Can Do
While your financial contributions are always appreciated, there are many additional ways to show your support. Mentoring opportunities abound for you to help mold the future leaders of Omega. We know the guys would appreciate your guidance. They aren’t looking for a huge time commitment – just an email or phone call a couple times a month is all it takes to make a big impact. If you held an office while in school, that’s even better. If you are interested in working directly with a chapter member please contact me. The success of Omega Chapter relies on a strong bond between our undergraduates and alumni. Whether you send in a contribution or attend an upcoming event, your support will help strengthen our fraternity and our relationships with each other.

Our chapter has traveled a difficult path and is restructured for a successful future full of promise, outstanding leadership and service to both Penn State and to the community. We have seen the commitment of these young men to the organization and we believe they will be a springboard to take our chapter to the next level of excellence. With your help, we can help them take this step. Please consider getting involved now!Thank you for your support and continued interest in Theta Chi.

Fraternally,

Dennis Foley’91