Phi Delta Theta Rededicates Renovated House After $2.2 Million Renovation

Fraternity brothers at Phi Delta Theta had much to celebrate Alumni Weekend at Westminster College when they rededicated their newly renovated Chapter House April 26, 2014.

The Campaign for Missouri Beta raised nearly $2.2 million from 345 donors over the decade which allowed for critical structural improvements and aesthetic enhancements, including new fire sprinklers, smoke alarms, fire escape and a HVAC central heating and cooling system.

In his welcome at the ceremony, Phil Kliewer, Class of 1974, who was Campaign Chair, said:  “We are so grateful to each of our volunteers, donors and friends for being here and sharing in this most historic of occasions.  Missouri Beta is back—back on a firm foundation—both literally and figuratively.”

Those acknowledged for their significant roles in making the rededication possible included the following:

• Alan Henderson, Class of 1968, who helped develop the framework for the original renovation campaign as the Founding Campaign Chair and kept moving it forward;
• Westminster President Dr. George B. Forsythe for the strong partnership and support of the College;
• Bill Whitlow, Class of 1969, who helped lead the charge to execute the successful renovation;
• Robert Morrison, Class of 1944, who was Honorary Campaign Chair;
• Scott Wilson, Class of 1974, whose company S.M. Wilson was responsible for the renovations;
• Dan Haslag, Executive Director of Plant Operations, whose team helped with the renovation and will now help with the ongoing care and maintenance of the House.

“In watching the renovation unfold, I have been filled with tremendous pride in recognition of what we were all able to accomplish together,” Westminster President Dr. George B. Forsythe told the crowd.  “Phi Delt is entering a new era on the campus of Westminster College, and on behalf of the College administration, we stand behind the chapter 100% and will continue to work side by side to carry this momentum forward.”

Before the ribbon-cutting, final dedication remarks were delivered by Joseph A. Bliss, Class of 2016, Missouri Beta Chapter President.    He acknowledged the roles of Bill Whitlow in coordinating the efforts between the College and the fraternity house, and Tim Steinbeck, Chapter Advisor.

“With all the new features and repairs, we have preserved the history of the Missouri Beta Chapter while still continuing the chapter’s legacy of greatness,” says Bliss.  “Thanks to the support of all of you, I am confident that our house will stand for generations to come and will continue to be home to more young men devoted to the ideals of the fraternity.”