Washington, DC Alumni Club

The Washington, DC Alumni Club of Phi Delta Theta was established to connect local Phi Delts living and working in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. More »

 

Phi Delta Theta Colonizes at Delaware State University

Phi Delta Theta establishes Delaware Beta Colony at Delaware State University

Delaware State University HornetsIn 2011, a group of men at Delaware State University organized to bring Phi Delta Theta to campus.

On Saturday, November 10, 2012, the interest group is slated to officially become the Delaware Beta Colony of Phi Delta Theta during a fraternity hosted ceremony at the Old State House in Dover, DE.

Rob Turning, Gamma West Province President and David Almacy, Survey Commission Chairman will represent the General Fraternity and officiate the formal proceedings which are open to the public.

All those from the Delaware State University community, members of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and local area guests are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

WHO: Delaware State University, Phi Delts & Guests
DATE: Saturday, November 10, 2012
TIME: 11 AM
WHERE: The Old State House
25 The Green
Dover, DE 19901
(302) 744-5055

Business attire (suit or coat and tie) is suggested. For additional information about Saturday’s event, please contact DeMarcko Butler, the Fraternity’s Director of Expansion at (513) 523-6345.

UPDATE


MORE PHOTOS: Delaware Beta Colonization Ceremony

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Delaware State University (also referred to as DSU, DESU, or Del State), originally established on May 15, 1891 by the Delaware General Assembly is an American historically black, public university located in Dover, Delaware. DSU also has two satellite campuses located in Wilmington, Delaware, and Georgetown, Delaware. The university encompasses six colleges and a diverse population of undergraduate and advanced-degree students. With approximately 4,200 students, DSU is the second-largest university in the state (behind the University of Delaware).

The Phi Delta Theta Fraternity was organized with three principle objectives: The cultivation of friendship among its members, the acquirement individually of a high degree of mental culture, and the attainment personally of a high standard of morality. These objectives, referred to as the “Cardinal Principles,” have guided over 242,000 men (including more than 165,000 living alumni) since December 26, 1848 when the Fraternity was founded at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Phi Delta Theta now has nearly 170 active chapters in 42 states and five Canadian provinces and over 100 recognized alumni clubs across the U.S. and Canada.

More Events >>

Election 2012: Phi Delts on the Campaign Trail

Happy Election Day 2012!

Campaign 2012Today, millions of Americans head to the polls to cast their votes to elect representatives at all levels of government from state and local races all the way up to the White House.

DID YOU KNOW?
Of the four Democrat or Republican White House candidates for president and vice president this year, only one is Greek. Rep. Paul Ryan (WI), the Republican vice presidential nominee, is a member of Delta Tau Delta from Miami University (Ohio). His father Paul, Sr. & uncle Donald are members of Phi Delta Theta from the Wisconsin Alpha chapter at the University of Wisconsin.

Of course, Phi Delta Theta is non-partisan, however, if you choose to support your fellow Brothers in the Bond with your vote, I am sure they would greatly appreciate it!

Here’s a list of those currently running for office this election cycle:

Adam Hasner, Maryland
Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, FL-22 (2012)
Majority Leader, Florida House of Representatives (R-District 87, 2002-2010)
AdamHasner.com

Luke Messer, Wabash
Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, IN-06 (2012)
Indiana General Assembly, (R-Shelby, Bartholomew counties, 2003-06)
LukeMesser.com

David Rouzer, NC State University
Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, NC-07 (2012)
North Carolina General Assembly, Senate (R-District 12, 2009-present)
DavidRouzer.com

Currently, there is one member of Phi Delta Theta serving in the United States Senate and one governor. Sen. James E. Risch, Idaho is the former Governor of Idaho and was sent to Washington, DC by his fellow Idahoans to represent the “Gem State” in 2009. Former Congressman Neil Abercrombie, Union College was elected Governor of Hawaii in 2010.

For a list of other Phi Delts who have served in government, check out the Capitol Phis page.

Find your polling place (via Vote411.org)

‘Dead Fred’ Takes His Place For VP Debate

Originally posted at LEX18.com.

Phi Delts honor Brother Fred Vinson at Centre College during VP DebateSeats at Thursday’s vice presidential debate at Centre College in Danville are not easy to come by.

But one famous Centre alum already has his spot staked out.

Phi Delta Theta fraternity members escorted a portrait of former U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice and Centre graduate Fred Vinson into the auditorium on Tuesday. Known as “Dead Fred,” the portrait has never missed a Centre College home football game. Frat brothers say there was no way Dead Fred could miss the debate.

“Having Dead Fred on the sidelines here just reminds you that every day you go out and get that support, and you’re just doing everything for the alumni,” Centre senior Oakley Watson said.

In addition to serving on the Supreme Court, Vinson was a member of Congress and was Treasury Secretary under President Truman.

VIDEO: Phi Delts honor Brother Fred Vinson at Centre College during VP Debate
(via LEX18.com)

2012: Remembering 9/11

Remembering 9-11Phi Delta Theta knows of nine Phis who perished at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. As our nation marks the 11th anniversary of this tragedy, our thoughts and prayers are with our fallen Brothers, their families and all those who lost loved ones on that fateful day.

Swede Chevalier, Cornell ’98
Thomas Clark, Richmond ’86
Terence Gazzani, Bentley ’00
Donald Jones, Richmond ’84
Mike LaForte, Syracuse ’84
Ted Luckett, Ohio Wesleyan ’84
Sean Lynch, Cornell ’87
Todd Rancke, Duke ’81
Andy Spencer, Maryland ’87

Related
Remembering 9/11

2012 General Convention Recap

The 79th Biennial General Convention of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity took place from July 5-8, 2012 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. It was a packed few days for hundreds of Phis, their families and guests.

Phi Delta Theta GHQ staff at General Convention in Washington, DC

Current and former Phi Delta Theta General Headquarters staff members at the 79th Biennial General Convention in Washington, DC on July 7, 2012.

Highlights included dinner for General Officers with General and Mrs. Washington at their Mount Vernon Estate, the laying of a memorial wreath at Arlington National Cemetery, presenting Ryan Zimmerman of the Washington Nationals with the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award on the field at Nationals Park prior to the Colorado Rockies game with 300+ Phi Delts in the stands, tours of the United States Capitol and the Pentagon, recognizing chapters and alumni volunteers with excellence and service awards, and an entertaining and inspiring evening sponsored by the Phi Delta Theta Foundation on the rooftop of 101 Constitution Avenue featuring fraternity leaders and the comedy improv group “Capitol Steps.”

Of course, there was also fraternity business to attend to such as voting on important legislation, debating issues, and the election of the General Council for the 2012-14 biennium. Congratulations to our new president Chris Lapple, and fellow General Council members Rich Fabritius, Jeff Davis, Chris Brussalis and Moe Stephens!

Below is the slideshow that was shown during the Grand Banquet on Saturday night which is a perfect recap of the week’s activities. Thanks to Sean Wagner, Steve Good and all of the Phi Delta Theta GHQ staff, Washington, DC alumni club representatives and everyone who contributed to ensure a terrific event. Safe travels back home!

RELATED

PHOTOS: 2012 General Convention in Washington DC

6/13/12
Ten Unique Things To Do in Washington, DC

2012 Convention Schedule

2012 Convention - Miami banner

The 79th Biennial Convention of Phi Delta Theta will be held on July 5-8, 2012 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, 1700 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202, (703) 920-3230 / 1-800-228-9290.

Don’t forget to register for the 2012 Convention!

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

1:00 PM General Council Meeting
5:30 PM Alumni Reception at Mount Vernon Inn
(Volunteers and Families – Invitation Only)

Thursday, July 5, 2012

8:00 AM Depart for Wreath Laying
Arlington National Cemetery
9:00 AM Registration Begins
10:30 AM General Officers Conference
12:00 PM General Officers Luncheon
12:00 PM Past Presidents of General Council Luncheon
1:30 PM Commission/Committee Meetings
3:00 PM Educational Programming
4:00 PM Committee Meetings
5:00 PM Dinner on Your Own
7:30 PM Opening General Session
(Open to All – Coat & Tie Required)
9:30 PM Province Meetings

Friday, July 6, 2012

6:30 AM Iron Phi 5k
8:30 AM Focus Group Discussions
9:00 AM General Session (Phis Only)
(Coat & Tie Required)
9:00 AM Colony Program
12:00 PM Building on the Bond Luncheon
2:30 PM Meet the Candidates
5:00 PM Dinner on Your Own
5:30 PM Buses depart for Phi Delt Night at the Ballpark
Washington Nationals Game
7:05 PM Opening Pitch – Phi Delt Night at the Ballpark
Washington Nationals Game

Saturday, July 7, 2012

8:00 AM Chapter Advisory Board/Alumni Club Delegates
Breakfast with the General Council
9:00 AM General Session (Phis Only)
(Coat & Tie Required)
9:00 AM Colony Program
12:00 PM Awards Luncheon
2:30 PM General Session (Phis Only)
(Coat & Tie Required)
2:30 PM Colony Program
7:30 PM Children’s Banquet
7:30 PM Grand Banquet (Coat & Tie Required)

Sunday, July 8, 2012

8 AM Departures from Washington, DC

Learn more about Phi Delta Theta’s General Convention and register here. See you in DC!

79th Biennial Convention – July 5-8, 2012 – Washington, DC

 Phi Delta Theta General Convention Washington DC

Phi Delta Theta’s Biennial Convention offers a unique opportunity for Phis of all ages from many parts of the world to meet in the true spirit of The Bond. Registrations are being received every day for this summer’s Convention at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia.

Learn more about Phi Delta Theta’s General Convention and register here. See you in DC!

Full 2012 Convention Schedule

Challenge Coin Campaign for the 79th Biennial General Convention

Challenge Coins DC Convention 2012The Washington DC Alumni Club is proud to host Phi Delta Theta’s 79th Biennial General Convention at the Crystal Gateway Marriot. As a local Phi we certainly hope that you will join us for the this tremendous event!

Whether you’re traveling from Bethesda, Baltimore, Birmingham, or Bismark we want all Phis to have a memorable experience and wanted to provide a “Convention Keepsake” to remember this event.

This is why the alumni club has purchased Challenge Coins to be given to all attendees of the Grand Banquet. Members of the U.S. military have a long-standing tradition of carrying a special coin symbolizing unit identity and esprit de corps. With bonds forged in battle thousands of miles from home, these custom coins minted for military units – each bearing their own revered symbols and mottos – capture in metal the essence of their affiliation and their fierce pride.

Considering that we will be “a stone’s throw” from the Pentagon, we decided that this would be a great way to remember the event and help serve as of remembrance that as Phi Delts, we also have a charge to keep. May we always strive to uphold the principles of Phi Delta Theta in our daily lives as outlined by the Immortal Six.

We are asking area alumni to help underwrite the the expense of these coins by making a contribution of any amount to our WePay page. Regardless of whether you plan on attending Convention or not, if you make a contribution of at least $25, you will receive this special challenge coin. Also, if you make a contribution of $100, you will receive two free tickets to the Washington Nationals game during Convention when Ryan Zimmerman will receive Phi Delta Theta’s Gehrig Award. Tickets in the Fraternity’s block are sold out, but if you give at least $100, we will ensure that you have tickets.

Thanks for your consideration to help make this a memorable cause for Phis in DC! To donate, click here.

Phi Delta Theta General Convention DC 2012PHI DELTA THETA INTERNATIONAL FRATERNITY
General Headquarters
2 South Campus Avenue
Oxford, OH 45056-1801
513-523-6345
FAX: 513-523-9200
www.phideltatheta.org

Ryan Zimmerman honored for his charitable work with the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award

By James Wagner, The Washington Post
Posted at 02:45 PM ET, 06/25/2012

Ryan Zimmerman to Receive Lou Gehrig Memorial Award

Ryan Zimmerman before the 3rd Annual “A Night at the Park” at the Nationals Park on June 14. (Ilya S. Savenok – GETTY IMAGES FOR ZIMS FOUNDATION)

Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman will be honored with the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award, presented to the major league player who best exemplifies the character of the hall of famer on and off the field.

Zimmerman was honored for his charitable work, notably his ziMS Foundation, which he founded to raise money for a cure for multiple sclerosis, the disease his mother Cheryl suffers from. Zimmerman will be presented with the award before the Nationals game in Colorado on Friday. (Note: The award will be presented during Phi Delt Night at Nationals Ballpark on the evening of Friday, July 6th.)

Soon after being drafted in 2005, Zimmerman started his foundation, and created a golf tournament and a yearly event at Nationals Park. Zimmerman’s contract stipulated that he be given full use of the stadium one day a year for an event, Night at the Park, that raises money for his charity. In 2011, the event raised more than $300,000.

The award is given by the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity at Columbia University, Gehrig’s college fraternity. Zimmerman is the first National or Expo to be honored. Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter was honored last year, and Angels first baseman Albert Pujols and Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino the previous two years.

Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/nationals-journal/post/ryan-zimmerman-honored-for-his-charitable-work-with-the-lou-gehrig-memorial-award/2012/06/25/gJQAvISD2V_blog.html

RELATED

Ryan Zimmerman of the Washington Nationals to Receive Lou Gehrig Memorial Award at Washington, DC Convention (Phi Delta Theta, 5/22/12)

Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Rededicated at the Baseball Hall of Fame (Phi Delta Theta, 5/21/12)

Lou Gehrig Memorial Award

Ten Unique Things To Do in Washington, DC

By David Almacy – Survey Commission Chairman & Washington, DC Alumni Club
Originally posted on the Phi Delt Blog, 6/13/12.

Ten Unique Things To Do in Washington, DCOur Nation’s Capital is well known for iconic federal buildings, historic monuments and impressive museums.

However, there are a number of hidden gems that many visitors might not know about which are certainly worth a look while in the Washington, DC area.

Here are ten unique spots to add to your list as you head “inside the beltway” this summer for Phi Delta Theta’s General Convention.

  1. Marine Barracks Washington: Evening Parade
    Marine Barracks Washington, also known as “8th & I,” is the oldest active post in the Marine Corps. The Evening Parade, held every Friday evening during the summer, has become a universal symbol of the professionalism, discipline, and Esprit de Corps of the United States Marines. The ceremony starts at 8:45 PM, beginning with a concert by the United States Marine Band. A one hour and fifteen minute performance of music and precision marching, the Evening Parade features “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” The United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, the Marine Corps Color Guard, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, Ceremonial Marchers, and LCpl. Chesty XIII, the official mascot of Marine Barracks Washington.

  2. Spy Museum
    Need to make a drop, crack a code or create a new cover? Head to the International Spy Museum. Through storytelling and interactive exhibits, this is the only public museum in the United States solely dedicated to espionage and the only one in the world to provide a global perspective on an all-but-invisible profession that has shaped history and continues to have a significant impact on world events. The Spy Museum focuses on human intelligence and reveals the role spies have played in world events throughout history.

  3. U.S. National Arboretum
    Located on 446 acres, the National Arboretum is home to a wide variety of plants, trees and gardens with something almost always in bloom depending on the time of year. Highlights include Azaleas, Dogwoods, National Boxwood Collection, National Herb Garden, Fern Valley, Friendship Garden, Asian Collections, National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, National Grove of State Trees, Aquatic Garden and Koi Pond. Established in 1927 by an Act of Congress, the Arboretum is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. If you want more, you might also enjoy the United States Botanic Garden located downtown on 100 Maryland Avenue, SW near the U.S. Capitol.

  4. Udvar-Hazy Center
    Home to the recently retired Space Shuttle Discovery, the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Dulles, VA is a member of the National Air & Space Museum family. Due to the expansive room in the Boeing Aviation Hangar and McDonnell Space Hangar, Udvar-Hazy is able to house a wider collection of artifacts including the fastest jet ever built, Lockheed’s SR-71 Blackbird; Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay, the Boeing 307 Stratoliner Clipper Flying Cloud, the first airliner with a pressurized cabin; a Concorde supersonic airliner, the Gemini VII space capsule; the Mobile Quarantine Unit used upon the return of the Apollo 11 crew; and a Redstone rocket.

  5. Washington National Cathedral
    A great and beautiful edifice in the city of Washington, the beautiful architecture, structure and grounds of the National Cathedral have served as a sacred place for our country in times of celebration, crisis, and sorrow. As a spiritual resource for our nation, the Cathedral provides an indispensable ministry for people of all faiths and perspectives.

  6. Congressional Cemetery
    Located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, the Washington Parish Burial Ground was first established in 1807 and designated by the United States as the place of interment for nearly every member of Congress or executive officer who died while holding office. Today, the hallowed ground of the Historic Congressional Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable Americans including three U.S. presidents (William Henry Harrison, John Quincy Adams, Zachary Taylor), two first ladies (Louisa Adams, Dolley Madison), Vice President Elbridge Gerry, Supreme Court Justices, Cabinet members, Civil War generals and others such as military composer and conductor John Phillips Sousa and first FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. Correction: Although originally buried at the Historic Congressional Cemetery shortly after their deaths in Washington, DC, the remains of the three U.S. presidents and two first ladies were later moved to other locations related to each of their personal histories.

  7. Lincoln Cottage
    During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln and his family resided seasonally at the Soldiers’ Home in northwest Washington, DC for a quarter of his presidency between 1862-64. Located on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home, this property is regarded by some as the most significant historic site associated with Lincoln other than the White House.

  8. National Harbor
    Located on 300 acres of prime real estate along the scenic Potomac River in Prince George’s County, MD, National Harbor is the new gateway to the National Capital Region. This spectacular urban-waterfront community offers stunning views of downtown Washington, D.C. and Old Town Alexandria and the waterfront backdrop completes the perfect setting for prime retail, dining and entertainment. National Harbor is also home to the Gaylord National, the largest combined hotel and convention center on the East Coast. Visit the National Harbor Marina, hop on a water taxi or set sail on lunch, dinner or sightseeing cruises and experience the beauty and splendor of the Potomac like never before.

  9. Lee-Fendall House
    Shortly after the American Revolution, war hero Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee purchased property on North Washington Street in Alexandria, Virginia. Built in 1785, the Lee-Fendall House has housed 32 members of the Lee family all the way until 1903. General Robert E. Lee, who later led the Confederate troops during the U.S. Civil War, spent his boyhood here. Also, while in Old Town Alexandria, don’t miss the rows of shops and restaurants that line King Street from the George Washington Masonic Memorial all the way down to the waterfront area at the base of Union Street. Too hot or too far to walk? Hop on the free King Street Trolley.

  10. Southwest Waterfront
    Southwest DC went through its first wave of urban renewal in the 1950s. It’s now a hotspot for development once again, with the opening of Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals Ballpark nearby and the expansion of the 50-year-old Arena Stage. Sample fresh seafood creations at the Maine Avenue Seafood Market or indulge in a multi-course tasting menu at CityZen at the Mandarin Oriental. Hop on board a sightseeing cruise for an unforgettable view of the monuments from the water. Honor the men who died on the doomed Titanic at one of DC’s most unusual memorials.

If you have flexibility in your schedule and are up for a little road trip while in the region, check out George Washington’s Mount Vernon Garden & Estates in Alexandria, VA, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, VA, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, National Aquarium at the Baltimore Harbor, MD and the Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. For those who appreciate American history from U.S. presidents to “seals” (both kinds) — there’s something for everyone.

We look forward to seeing you at the convention in July and hope you enjoy your time in the Capital City!

Sources: Some of the language used above was taken either entirely or in part from respective venue websites. Links are provided for convenience.