editors note: Below is the emailed newsletter from UPJ delivers November 29th , 2022 A Message from the President: Greetings! I hope you and yours are doing well and looking forward to the holiday season. I am honored to share a few words with you, our alumni, friends and supporters who represent UPJ in the world and make us so proud. I firmly believe that the accomplishments of our alums are a crucial support pillar upon which the University's reputation rests. As we celebrate our enviable position in the top tier of U.S. News & World Report rankings and being selected as a Best College in the Northeast by Princeton Review, we are grateful for the great foundations of excellence you helped to establish. This outstanding legacy was in full display during the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Delta Chi Fraternity at UPJ, an occasion also marked by warm fellowship, nostalgic remembrances, and merriment. As I mingled with the Brothers, past and present, the passion and pride for UPJ was palpable. There was also plenteous evidence of UPJ's power and impact, with so many successful alums from all walks of life. For example, I enjoyed conversations with Dr. Edgar Hartle ('77), a notable pathologist in Charlotte, NC. I was fascinated by the globetrotting ways of Paul Amos ('92), who now resides in Ecuador. I was honored to meet Steve Wexell ('86), Vice President at HW Lochner, ranked by Engineering New Record as one of the nation's premier engineering design firms. The next generation of leaders was also well represented by the current Delta Chi Brothers, including Rob Baumgarten, who displayed his dancing skills as the King of "the Worm!" Quite clearly, UPJ alums worldwide are making a huge impact, making the most of the educational foundation that prepared them for success and leadership. Other Fall highlights included our Fall into Research symposium, where our talented faculty shared their scholarship with members of the university community, and our annual Homecoming celebration topped with a beautiful fireworks display. Our student-athletes continue to leave their mark with tremendous victories in sports such as basketball, volleyball, and of course, wrestling, where Coach P's Mountain Cats recently walloped West Liberty in a dramatic match. Homecoming and Halloween celebrations enlivened the Campus with dazzling fireworks and lots of fun for students and kids from the surrounding communities. The University continues to impact our local community in numerous ways that promote economic development and enhance the quality of life. Our partnership with the Flood City Youth Fitness Academy marked a major milestone with the launch of the CODE 4 STEM learning initiative. In addition, the community sidewalk and wellness trail project dubbed REACHLand is nearing completion, and we are hoping for the grand opening in the next few weeks. Let me conclude by thanking you, our alumni, friends and supporters for all you do to support and sustain Pitt Johnstown through thick and thin. I hope that as you pursue your endeavors, you remember to make time for self-care and that you and yours stay safe and sound. Embrace & Enjoy Our World, Jem Spectar The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown welcomed back 70 alum, along with family, to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Delta Chi on Saturday, October 15th. Traveling near and far, Brothers from all over the world as far as Cuenca, Ecuador once again gathered here on campus for a beautiful fall day of celebrating and reminiscing.
That evening, the Brothers of Delta Chi and guests came together for a dinner celebration at Sunnehanna Country Club. As part of the celebration, they heard from speaker and University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown President, Dr. Jem Spectar and current Delta Chi Johnstown Chapter President Cyle Martindale.
They were presented with Citations from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the Pennsylvania Senate by Former Pennsylvania Senators, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Alumni, and Delta Chi Brothers John Wozniak and John Rafferty as well as a Commemorative Plaque distinguishing the founding of Delta Chi by Delta Chi International President Patrick Alderdice. As history would have it, founding fathers Dawn McKee, Geoffrey Miles, and William Miles formed Phi Delta Psi Fraternity in the Winter of 1962. And, on January 22, 1963, the official Chapter Founding date, Phi Delta Psi became the second Fraternity founded in Johnstown. Eight years later, the Brothers of Phi Delta Psi were sworn into the pledge program of Delta Chi, making them the first international Fraternity at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. And, after 50 plus years, these brothers continue to cherish a friendship formed “in the bond.”
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Fraternities Cite Damage to HousesBy DIANA STANLEY The fraternity houses of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnston have suffered extensive damages in years past. Yet, Jacob Stiffler, director of Housing, has expressed optimistic feelings for the 1979- 80 school year. He believes the house managers of Lambda Sigma Rho, Delta Sigma Chi, Delta Chi and Acacia are working to alleviate the problem. A group damage report, released by the Housing Office. indicated the following estimated property damages for the 1978-79 year: Larkspur Lodge, Cottages II and Ill, $922, Heather Lodge, Cottages II and Ill, $480, Foxfire Lodge, $397 and Hawthorn, Cottage ll, $355. According to Stiffler, many damages occur during large social gatherings; "Alcohol and damages go hand in hand." Many house managers agree that open parties are a significant factor. Reginold Synder, House Manager of Delta Chi, states "Undoubtedly, damages are caused by open parties. Yet, you can not pinpoint who does it." He went on to say, "Most damages are caused by accidents. The students do not do it on purpose." House Manager for Delta Sigma Chi, Larry Kreider, also believes most of the damage is related to fraternities’ parties. Some managers believe the problem isthe result of students’ apathetic attitude toward destruction. "Students take advantage of the University's’ property. They have the attitude that it's not their property, therefore, they are not responsible for damages," quotes Vance Becker, Acacia's House Manager. The damages are located in the basements, lobbies and stairways. Among the damages are cracked tiles, holes in the walls, torn screens and broken furniture. In the past, the Housing Office used student's matriculation fee to pay for damages. Becker believes if an individual is doing damage "it should come out of his own pocket." Many managers are hoping for a successful year in regards to less property damage. Snyder comments, The damage this year will be less than in the past." Party Policies Discussed By Campus FraternitiesBy TOM WOJCIK
"Each fraternity should promote Greek activities, not parties," said lnter-Fraternity Council President Bill Murray at lFC's Sept. 17 meeting. Murray's comment was made during a discussion on the issue of fraternity parties. Some representatives feel the ‘open party system,’ presently employed by the fourfraternities (Acacia, Delta Chi, Delta Sigma Chi, Lambda Sigma Rho), removes some of the eliteness of fraternal brotherhood. Remarked one representative, "In one respect, independents are not distinguished from Greeks; that being easy admittance to parties. Some things should be exclusively for Greeks.” Motion for a ‘closed party system’ was rejected. IFC recognized the fact that 1 independent upperclassmen, who have no intention of joining a fraternity, frequent many of the parties. However, they agree it would be almost impossible to screen everyone who attends. ''I wouldn't enjoy turning away friends because they weren't Greek," said representative Mike Hacker. ‘'I don't think any fraternity would enjoy that." As an alternate solution, IFC agreed to discontinue advertising fraternity parties. Members feel that without advertising, independents who are attracted only by the easy access to beer will be less likely to attend the parties. Those who have an»interest in the social aspect of brotherhood will gain knowledge of the party through brothers or other interested individuals. Murray, along with other representatives, feels parties should not be used as ‘bait’ for prospective rushes (one who seriously considers joining a fraternity/ sorority). "We must generate more inter-Greek activity," said Murray. "Such as Greek weekends, softball games and the like. lt’s important we show independents that brotherhood, and Greek life in general, is much more than parties." 'I can definitely see a problem,” commented Student Life Dean Lowell Shaffer, on the Greek party issue "but it appears we're on our way to solving it." Shaffer agrees with the idea of promoting activities rather than parties. Shaffer continued, ’'It may help to return some of the uniqueness and mystique to fraternal brotherhood." Fee Cut Progress Progress in refunding this term’s facilities fee seems inevitable at this point. An unusual consensus between the administration, student press and Student Senate favors the principle that students should get something for the $10 sports center fee or else get their money back. According to President Blacking‘ton, an in- formal request has -been made to Oakland for the refund and a formal written request will be made shortly. “In the fifties, fraternities were the prevailing rage. In the sixties, a sense of individuality and independence caused fraternity membership to drop. And now, in the seventies, Greek membership is surging again, especially in the last few years.” This comment was made by, Tony Lupinetti, president of the Intrafraternal Council (I.F.C.).. He had held this office since April of 1977. He is a member of the Lambda Sigma Rho fraternity. Lupinetti described the total experience of Greek life: “In reference to UP], Greek life gives greater sense of belonging; it promotes an opportunity to return to this campus, and it enhances social encounters beyond the college situation.” Lupinetti says that the recent acquisition of Greek housing “is a definite boost for a sense of identity.” The University policy concerning Greek housing considers University interests as well as Greek interests. The policy’s format is based on situational experiences, according to Lupinetti.
Pitt-Johnstown sororities and fraternities are preparing for Greek Week activities to be held ,this week. The Greeks have painted murals on the Student Union windows to represent the week‘s events. The main , programs will'take place Thursday‘, Frjday and Saturday. The schedule is as follows:
Tom Hillegas of Delta Chi. Vice President of lnterfraternity Council and Karen Matolyak of Zeta Sigma Tau, Vice President of the lntersorority Council. are heading the Greek Week committee. Housing Bills to IncreaseThomas J. Wonders, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, revealed that student housing bills will increase in price by about $20 per term next year. Wonde'rs met with the Student Senate housing committee and Jacob Stiffler, housing director, last week. He said the 5% priceincrease will bring the cost for any type of on-campus housing to about $390 per term. Stiffler explained that the inflationary measure is being taken to meet projected "increases in costs of utilities, energy, labor, and rates of supplies and equipment. Stiffler announced anew procedure to be implemented for the signing of housing contracts. Students will sign contracts for the entire academic year, rather than the "present term-by-term basis. One housing deposit of $l00 for the year will be charged. A student who is not planning to return for a certain term will have the $50 deposit for that term refunded if he notifies the ‘housing office 30 days prior to the beginning of that term. Another housing change is modified sign-up system to go into effect this term. Sign-ups will take place over a. period of three weeks. During the first week, ., studentsmay sign up for townhouses. A list of students whojhave been assigned to apartments will be published. Then, during the second week, students will sign up A V for new husing. Students may request dormitory rooms during the the third week. The same priorities will be followed in making room assignments as previously, according to Stiffler. Those students who already live in a certain place will have ' first claim to live there again. Students with seniority, or the hightest number of credits, will have second priority. Alcohol Policy Noted"University bulletin has been released which states the Pitt- Johnstown’s policy concerning alcoholic beverages on campus.
The dispensing or consuming of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited in public areas which include the following: the library, all academic" buildings, the student union, the Log Cabin, the Adirondack Shelter, the lobby and hallway areas of all resident facilities and any exterior location of the campus. Any exceptions to the policy requre the approval of the Dean of Student Life for student-sponsored affairs, and the Director of Public Affairs for faculty or staff events. The bulletin also listed rules that would apply to the dispensing and consumption of alcohol at parties or other social occasions:
The lnterfraternity Council met on January 11 to discuss plans for winter term rush. This term’s rush period began Jan. 11 at the I.F.C. smoker, which is a meeting of the members of a fraternity with those students interested in pledging a fraternity.
According to Tony Rametta, I.F.C. ‘ president and member of Delta Sigma Chi, rush will extend for two weeks ending on Monday, February 2, when bids go out to Dean Shaffer‘s office for approval. A bid is an invitation by the fraternity to their pledge inductions. Students interested in pledging a fraternity should attend the various rush parties scheduled below and pick up their bids if any, at the end of rush. The following are the dates of the scheduled:
Groundbreaking for the new University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Sportcenter (fieldhouse) will begin before the end of this month, if funds are approved. Final budget discussions on the funding should be completed by this week.
Harry Probert, manager of Physical Plant, stated that the facility should be completed by September, 1977. The ground floor of the center will contain a varsity size court, with four intramural courts superimposed. The main gym also will divide into three separate sections. The first level will have training room for taping, whirlpool baths, and other activities. There will be a separate area located by the showers, for storage, equipment check-out, and laundry. Separate shower facilities will be capable of handling general and team use at the same time. The showers will be separated by a partition, according to Probert. In addition, there will be a weight room and wrestling room located on the first level. Four handball courts will also be included if the budget permits. Second Level Spectators will be entering onto the second level to ticket offices, conces- sion stands, and public restrooms. Seating capacity is expected to be 2500, according to Probert. A second floor exercise room, primarily for dance classes, will contain mirrors and ballet bars along its walls. Athletic department offices and more storage space will also be located on the upper level. An excerpt from"The evolution of a college: a history of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (1927-1993)" by Robert J. Hunter A possible new development in the housing picture was revealed that fall (1975) by a student, ]ohn Hope, who was president of Delta Chi fraternity. He announced that tentative plans were underway to construct the first “Greek House” on the campus. A fund drive by Delta Chi fraternity the previous year had raised enough capital to enable the fraternity to consider the purchase of off- campus property for a fraternity house, but the convenience of being located on campus had outweighed all other considerations. Thus a proposal to build a fraternity house on campus had been presented to ]acob Stiffler, and had passed through the chain of command ultimately to President Blackington. The president had ruled that fraternity housing would have to be established on campus. He had wisely noted that UP], unlike many institutions, had little or no “town—gown” problems. Surely they would have them with off-campus fraternities. Besides, the college had plenty of land. Actually, Myron Fetterolf, father of Mitch Fetterolf, a member of Delta Chi, had offered the college $250,000 ($1,235,793 in 2022 dollars) to build a Delta Chi house on college property. Meeting in Mr. Fetterolf s office were Thomas Wonders, Dean Lowell Shaffer and President Blackington. He immediately declined the gift on the grounds that it would destroy the fraternity and sorority system as well as exacerbate the potential of strain between the “Greeks and non—Greeks” on campus. President Blackington countered with a proposal that Fetterolf allow his proffered gift to be used as a down payment on a complex of buildings that would house all the sororities and fraternities as well as a substantial number of “independent” students. It was a tension—ridden moment as Fetterolf turned and gazed out the window and contemplated his initial intention as well as the Blackington proposal that would come to mean so much to the development of the college. Eventually, the swivel chair and Fetterolf slowly turned back to the president. “I really think you are right, Dr. Blackington. Let’s do it.” Thus in a brief half—hour meeting, the direction of student life and enhanced student housing alternatives on the campus was established. As might be expected, the agreement between the Fetterolf family and President Blackington was the subject of considerable discussion. Opinions in opposition were expressed by faculty opposed to “discriminatory” housing and the subjection of the campus to “vicious hazing techniques” so common on some campuses. Others objected to the fact that the Faculty Senate had not had the opportunity to participate in the decision. Nevertheless, the administration held fast. Enrollment predictions indicated a need for at least 200 additional beds for the next Fall Term. In March the UP] Advisory Board endorsed the plans for building new housing. They urged getting started in early spring. Then it was announced that a Pittsburgh architectural firm, Urban Design Associates, had been selected for the task and had decided to hold a Workshop on the Johnstown campus at which they would solicit both student and faculty viewpoints. As a result of this decision, some 30 students selected as representative of the resident student body, along with three faculty members and two from the Advisory Board, met with the architects and engineers of Urban Design Associates. These professionals stated that they wished to “relate the new housing facilities to the social lives of the students.” A spokesman for the firm voiced the opinion that designing the housing, preparing detailed engineering drawings, appointing a contractor, clearing the sites and erecting some 230 housing units between March and September would be “a tremendously difficult task.” He estimated the cost at $7200 for each of the 230 units, or something over $1.6 million. For a change, even The Advocate's editorial writers had only enthusiastic words of praise for the leadership of Urban Design, and for those who had demonstrated the insight to choose this firm for the task. Completion and Occupancy of Campus LodgesIn the Fall of 1976, almost ignored, in the meantime, was the important fact that a “near miracle” had been achieved between March and September, and there were now five new housing units, as yet unnamed, providing living spaces for 256 additional resident students. This raised the “on-campus” capacity of the college to 1096. Two of the five new buildings, designed by Urban Design Associates, were reserved for independent housing, while three others became the new quarters for Delta Chi, Lambda Sigma Rho, Acacia and Delta Sigma Chi social fraternities, and of Alpha Xi Delta, Zeta Sigma Tau and Delta Zeta social sororities. Each of the five buildings housed 64 students in living units accommodating eight, 16 or 24 persons. Kitchenettes had been built into the lobby or the basement of each unit. All of the new buildings were equipped with wall—to—wall carpeting in both the lobby and bedroom areas. The Delta Chi house, largely paid for by their own “building fund,” was said to be “architecturally more like the older dormitory halls.” Student reaction to these new housing units, by those assigned to live in them, seemed overwhelmingly favorable. Later that fall winners in a contest to name the townhouses and the newer units were announced, with President Blackington presenting the cash prizes. In a student dining hall ceremony, it was announced that from now on the “group- housing” units would be called lodges, and that the townhouse apartment buildings would become manors. In all, there had been 265 entries in the “name the residence halls” contest. Nancy Salem of Johnstown received first prize of $50, while Lois Carducci and Eileen Dewald, residents of Laurel Hall, received $25 each for their second-place tie. Now there would be a Timberline Manor, Highland Manor, Cascade Manor, Woodland Manor, Summit Manor and Wilderness Manor. And the group—housing units were christened Heather Lodge, Foxfire Lodge, Larkspur Lodge, Hawthorn Lodge and Briar Lodge. Nearly everyone seemed pleased with the decision to maintain the tradition of “honoring nature,” as had been done when the original and subsequently added dormitories had been called “halls” and named after typical trees of the Pennsylvania forests. editors note: Myron F. Fetterolf, 60 of White Star Village, Jennerstown, died June 9, 1980
With the addition of five new housing units at Pitt-Johnstown, the on-campus student population has risen to‘ l,096 - an increase of 256 students over last year, according to Cathrine Frisk of. the Housing Office.
New housing consists of three frater- nity, sorority house's aceomodating Delta Chi, Lambda, Sigma Rho, Acacia, Delta Sigma Chi, Alpha Xi Delta, Zeta Sigma Tau, and Delta Zeta and two buildings of independent’ housing students. Each building has three units housing eight persons, one unit for 16 persons, and one unit for 24 persons. Each unit has wall-to-wall carpeting throught the - lobby and bedroom areas; and a ‘kitchenette in the lobby or basement. With the exception of the Delta Chi house, which is architecturally similar to the older dorm buildings. the fraternity/sorority houses consist of two units for l6 persons and two units for eight, persons. ' In response to the question “What is your opinion of student housing?” Here are some reactions of some UPJ people. “I like it - it's much more personal,” says Gary Todd, a senior English major who lives in building A. “You have more of an opportunity to really get to know the people you’re living with.” John Mansu. of building B‘ likes the new" residence halls because they are smaller and quieter. “It’s a good idea” he commented. “ I like it. I definitely like it,” answered Lynn Johnson of Zeta Sigma Tau. “If they got washers and dryers I’d be really happy-" ‘ Patty Homa, a freshman journalism major living in building A says:"I like it because there‘s a lot of room, but it doesn’t seem to be as cozy as a dorm.” Roy Joseph, a sophomore living in Maple Hall,'said, ‘Nice, but I don't see that much of an advantage, except for some extra space.” “It’s a nice change from the dorms,” says Jody Friedman of building B’s 24- person unit. “The new housingigives you more of an opportunity tobe on your ownan independent person.” Ted Harchick, of Delta Chi fraternity, said, “There was a need ,-for Greek housing. even ‘though we had, unity b_efo_re, 'it’s even better now.” ‘‘I like it,” answered Pitt-Johnstown Nurse Eckenrode,‘ “It’s very attractive, but inconvenient if there happens to be an‘ emergency, at least until they get the phones in. "As an alumnus its a great feeling to come back and know where to go to party" said George Kosko. 'It will be nice when it gets finished" says Rudy Cooper of Laurel Hall, "But the Dorms are nice because I like the convenience."
Debate over Greek housing at Pitt- Johnstown is raging as time for a decision on additional housing draws near. “
Brian Vuletich,’ vice-president of Student Senate and a member of the Delta Sigma Chi fraternity, recently submitted his proposal for Greek housing to Student Senate and the housing office. . ‘ Vuletich stated, “Fraternity housing is ,a reality..- it is going to occur." He feels that now, when 200 additional "housing units are needed for the Fall Term, Greek housing could be the answer. ' . According to Vuletich, a fraternity house would allow the Greeks living in- the dorms and townhouses an oppor- tunity to move into their own facility leaving space in existing housing for the new students. Vuletich explained till! ‘ only the Greeks already living or campus would be permitted to mom. into the proposed “house”. In this war. the housing problem would not 1'}: compounded. Furthermore, Vuletich is suggesting that the complex consist of seven houses - one for each fraternity and sorority - and be funded by the university. Vuletich has proposed that this complex “(or parts of it) be built over the summer instead of the “convention-housing” facility now in the works, the money, therefore, would be funnelled into the Greek housing project. Vuletich indicated that the Inter- fraternity and Intersorority Councils (IFC and ISC) are supporting his proposal. However, spokesperson for the Zeta Sigma Tau sorority has reported that ‘the plan Vuletich presented to the Councils differs drastically from the ‘B one he submitted to Senate. The spokesperson stated that Vuletich had suggested only the construction of one “Greek house” which would be accessi- ble to all Greek organizations. ‘ Vuletich, though, objects strongly to a one-house idea. He indicated that ’ strong philosophical and personal differences would create problems among the residents but that he will not oppose the idea “if that’s what everyone else wants.” A spokesperson for the Delta Chi fraternity reported that his organiza tion still plans to proceed with preparations for the construction of the Delta Chi house. Members of Delta Chi have secured a pledge for a substantial contribution from outside sources to be used for the construction of their fraternity house. Discussions have continued all term between members of the administration ‘and Delta Chi representatives in order to finalize plans. As a result, the spokesperson reported that some Delta Chi members may choose to withhold support for Vuletich’s proposal. Vuletich has also reported that Jacob Stiffler, housing director, and Lowell Shaffer, Dean of Student Life, support his ideas and are encouraging him to "pursue the matter. Jeff Blaschak, an engineering student and member of Student Senate, sees several debatable issues in Vuletich’s plan. Blaschak especially disagrees with the idea of university funding of a Greek complex. He feels that “special interest housing” is discriminatory on two major points; “First of all, frater- nities and sororities require pledges to go through an initiation process - this may be against someone’s character or personality. And yet. they may go along with‘ it just to secure special Greek housing. Second, it is monetarily discriminatory because fraternities and sororities impose a social fee on their members which may make membership and, therefore, special housing unat- tainable for some students.” Blaschak also feels that friction would be created if the university opted by Michelle Hawk I to fill vacancies in the Greek house with a non-Greek, which is their prerogative if the organization can’t attract enough of their members to fill the house. He statedthat such a situation would be “psychologically straining" on the non- Greek resident. Blaschak, however, does support the idea of partial funding, which Delta Chi is presently pursuing by seeking con- tributions."ln this way,‘fraternities and sororities would retain “quasi- ownership” over their facilities. Blaschak indicated that President Blackington would probably support the idea of partialfunding because it would alleviate two current problems; , (1) The tight housing budget would be somewhat lessened because of outside contributions and, (2) The university would still get necessary housing facilities. - . However, Blaschak pointed out. seven new facilities as opposed to the one proposed convention-house would involve inefficient use of scant universi- ty funds. Furthermore, some of the sororities and fraternities have active membership lists of only ten to fifteen people. Al Bowen, one of the university lawyers in Oakland, was contacted in _ order to determine if university-funded Greek housing is legally feasible. Bowen reported that the university could legally provide that type of housing only if comparable facilities were accessible to both fraternities and sororities. Under Title IX, he pointed out, equalor comparable units must be made available to both men and women. However, the complex would not be considered discriminatory to non-Greek campus residents. |
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