Century Award Presentation at Gala - Video
At the Theta Chi Gala, on October 19, 2013, the Alumni Association presented the the first annual Richard Maltz Century Award.
At the beginning of this century Omega chapter of Theta Chi at Penn State University was non functional. What had been a vibrant and thriving chapter for over 70 years, had no active brothers, a boarded up house at 523 S. Allen Street, no money, unfunded-required modifications to the house and a board of directors without the capacity to fight for survival.
Leadership at Theta Chi National headquarters knew the chapter history and recognized the potential for a renewed Omega chapter at Penn State. What was needed was the nucleus of new leadership within the alumni corporation. In short, National was prepared to fight for Omega's survival, but someone from Omega alumni needed to step up, take the lead, and reform the chapter.
A little more than 7 years ago, Richard Maltz became that someone. He encouraged alumni brothers to join him on a new board of directors, worked with senior Penn State officials as well as the leaders of the National Theta Chi, and, in effect, gave new birth to Omega chapter.
Since Richard has been president of the alumni corporation, the chapter has thrived. Not only has the financial health of the corporation been restored, the capital campaign been successful, but equally important, the active chapter has grown and thrived to once again become a successful, essential part of the Penn State University greek system.
Just today, Richard Maltz stepped down from his position as president of the alumni corporation. While heartfelt thanks reflects our appreciation for all that he has done, we felt that some form of memorialization is required. We considered a multitude of options, but settled on one that will annually remind everyone what Rich’s efforts have meant to this chapter.
So tonight, i would like to announce the creation of the Richard Maltz Century Award. this award will be given to the active brother who meets stringent requirements as developed by our current active brothers taking into account service, leadership, grade point average among other criteria. The Richard Maltz Century Award winner will be nominated by his active chapter and selected by the alumni corporation board of directors. The award will be announced and presented each year during the corporation meeting.
Richard Maltz (L), with the 1st recipient of the Richard Maltz Century Award, Ian Maxwell - Theta Chi Gala - Oct. 21, 2013
To highlight the importance of this award in the Omega chapter hierarchy, the recipients name will be inscribed on this plaque, and will receive an award in the amount of $1,000. The Richard Maltz Century Award is the single monetary award given to an active member. This years inaugural winner is Ian Maxwell.