What was your favorite event, tradition, or activity to partake in during your college years? Why was it so important to you? Do you still engage with that event, tradition, or activity?
The extracurricular activities in campus organizations became the center of making friends and staying in touch with what was happening in the university community. My fraternity required that pledges get involved in something, and that was a big part of the maturing process.
As a graduate brother, what do you see as the most valuable part of your FIJI experience?
Guided maturing, growing from a boy to a man. All upperclassmen have a role/responsibility here, but the seniors are the key examples. I’m not sure how clearly seniors understand this. But they should! This should be a regular topic of discussion in chapter meetings. Last year I was asked to address the Univ. of Delaware chapter as part of their getting straightened out after earning University Probation. In preparing for that talk, I realized what a powerful maturing experience my Fiji had been. The Class of ’56 was a great class, inspiring us by their daily lives and their zeal for excellence. The Fiji experience should be a tremendous privilege. We finally realized that hazing pledges was counterproductive and stopped it. If you’re going to be “mighty proud to be a Fiji”, the whole house must be dedicated to living and growing in a way deserving of pride.
Share an update of what’s new in your life (career highlights, family news, etc.)
I’ve had my 83rd birthday and hope to have several more. My Navy retirement (O-6, 30 years), civilian retirement (civilian retirement, engineer and project manager) and social security provide a retirement package I’d recommend to anyone. I’ve been blessed with 4 children and 9 grandchildren. My church is a wonderful part of my current life.