Difference between revisions of "Alpha Beta Chapter"

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'''Alpha Beta Chapter''' (Founded 5 March [[1988]]) is located at the [http://www.umd.edu University of Maryland] in College Park, Maryland.  The [[Collegiate Chapters|Chapter]] was founded by [[Sigma Chapter]] alumnus [[Mike McQueney]] (Σ 787) and is a member of the [[Capitol Region]].  
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'''Alpha Beta Chapter''' (Founded 5 March [[1988]]) is located at the [http://www.umd.edu University of Maryland] in College Park, Maryland.  The [[Collegiate Chapters|Chapter]] was founded by [[Sigma Chapter]] alumnus [[Mike McQueney]] (Σ 787) and is a member of the [[Capital Region]].  It is also the first nationally recognized chapter to harbor the quasi-secret Aces organization.
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[[Image:alphabetalockin.jpg|thumb|400px|right|Alpha Beta Chapter, 2006]]
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[[Image:alphabetalockin.jpg|thumb|450px|right|Alpha Beta Chapter Lock-In, 2009]]
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[[Image:IMG_1564.jpg|thumb|450px|center right|Alpha Beta Chapter Photo, Spring 2018]]
  
 
== Chapter History ==
 
== Chapter History ==
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In the late 1980s, four dedicated graduating Sigma brothers made a pledge to do their share in helping the fraternity expand. Each brother continued their education at a new university and they pledged to each other and the fraternity to start new chapters at these schools. Since no new chapters had successfully chartered and remained active in 50 years, you can imagine the excitement when all four of these brothers accomplished their mission. Alpha Beta was the first successful Alpha Chapter and started the rebirth of the fraternity. The founders (in order) were [[Mike McQueney]] (AB), [[Jeff Johnson]] (AG), Jamie (AD), and [[Dave Eschelman]] (AE). According to Mike, Jeff wanted to be the first one to start a chapter in the new wave and the competition was fierce, but Mike won by 14 days with the Alpha Beta Chapter at the University of Maryland at College Park! GO TERPS!
 
In the late 1980s, four dedicated graduating Sigma brothers made a pledge to do their share in helping the fraternity expand. Each brother continued their education at a new university and they pledged to each other and the fraternity to start new chapters at these schools. Since no new chapters had successfully chartered and remained active in 50 years, you can imagine the excitement when all four of these brothers accomplished their mission. Alpha Beta was the first successful Alpha Chapter and started the rebirth of the fraternity. The founders (in order) were [[Mike McQueney]] (AB), [[Jeff Johnson]] (AG), Jamie (AD), and [[Dave Eschelman]] (AE). According to Mike, Jeff wanted to be the first one to start a chapter in the new wave and the competition was fierce, but Mike won by 14 days with the Alpha Beta Chapter at the University of Maryland at College Park! GO TERPS!
  
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Mike McQueney came to UMD to pursue his graduate degree in Biochemistry. Amazingly he had time to induct 16 brothers on March 5, 1988 and guide them through their first few semesters. Alpha Beta started out as a colony, meaning it started with a small number of brothers and grew outward instead of starting with enormous numbers and shrinking downward. The 16 charter brothers then expanded greatly the following semester into such numbers that the chapter had a very difficult time defining its identity and creating a sense of brotherhood. The fraternity began to question what it meant to be a brother and many brothers did not take the Tripod seriously. Something had to be done.
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Mike McQueney came to UMD to pursue his graduate degree in Biochemistry. Amazingly he had time to induct 16 brothers on March 5, 1988 and guide them through their first few semesters. Alpha Beta started out as a colony, meaning it started with a small number of brothers and grew outward instead of starting with enormous numbers and shrinking downward. The 16 charter brothers then expanded greatly the following semester. Renee A. Chen (née Miller, AB 34) became Secretary in 1989 and worked closely with Letti Large Becker, Phi Sigma Pi's first Executive Director, to institute the chapter's administrative protocols. Realizing the amazing potential of the Alpha Beta chapter, Renee became President in 1990. At the fall recruitment meeting she told aspiring pledges she was looking for "enthusiastic people who wanted to make a positive difference in the world, and who just happened to have a high GPA." The numbers grew even more, but the fledgling chapter still a had difficult time defining its identity and creating a sense of brotherhood. The fraternity began to question what it meant to be a brother and many brothers did not take the Tripod seriously. Something had to be done.
  
 
=== Early Years ===
 
=== Early Years ===
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Alpha Beta increased its name recognition nationally and locally in 1995 under [[Adam Feinburg]]. In the Spring of 1995, AB hosted the first ever regional conference during our Founder's Day weekend. AB invited presidents from other chapters to speak on topics in which their chapters excelled. The [[National Vice President of Chapter Development]] [[Lindsay Fernandez]] and then chapter consultant Betsy Robinson (now Jaquith) also spoke at the seminars and banquet. The [[National President]] [[Jeff Johnson]] spoke at our formal that year and AB presented two alumni awards to alumni not of AB. [[Phil Morrison]] of Alpha Lambda and [[Colleen Dougherty]] of Alpha Theta provided a great deal of support for AB and created role models for graduating AB brothers to follow. Coincidentally, both of these brothers received the National [[Distinguished Service Key]] at the Convention in the fall of 1995 in Norfolk, VA.
 
Alpha Beta increased its name recognition nationally and locally in 1995 under [[Adam Feinburg]]. In the Spring of 1995, AB hosted the first ever regional conference during our Founder's Day weekend. AB invited presidents from other chapters to speak on topics in which their chapters excelled. The [[National Vice President of Chapter Development]] [[Lindsay Fernandez]] and then chapter consultant Betsy Robinson (now Jaquith) also spoke at the seminars and banquet. The [[National President]] [[Jeff Johnson]] spoke at our formal that year and AB presented two alumni awards to alumni not of AB. [[Phil Morrison]] of Alpha Lambda and [[Colleen Dougherty]] of Alpha Theta provided a great deal of support for AB and created role models for graduating AB brothers to follow. Coincidentally, both of these brothers received the National [[Distinguished Service Key]] at the Convention in the fall of 1995 in Norfolk, VA.
  
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The summer of 1995 Grand Chapter meeting gave AB the opportunity to really speak out against several issues that we felt were detrimental to the fraternity and the concepts of brotherhood. In conjunction with Tau and Alpha Rho, we spoke out for chapter rights, influenced votes, and created an important precedent for critically thinking about the proposed changes to the nation Constitution. Because AB brothers were pioneers in the road tripping phenomenon, many chapters present already knew us and respected our opinions.
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===1995-2000===
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Main Article: [[1995-2000 Alpha Beta Chapter History]]
  
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During the Fall of 1995, Adam Feinburg also chair Maryland's Homecoming committee giving Phi Sigma Pi a big boost in exposure on campus. His involvement with so many other campus groups helped place Phi Sigma Pi members in leadership roles all over campus. He was instrumental in setting up the Professional Fraternity Council here at UMD and the first president was an AB brother. He was also awarded the Richard C. Todd and Claudia Pennock Todd Tripod Scholarship at the National convention in Norfolk. He was the third brother to receive this honor, which is the only national ward that a single brother can win for his or her chapter.
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===2000-2005===
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Main Article: [[2000-2005 Alpha Beta Chapter History]]
  
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Unfortunately, during this period, AB focused too much on the outside and not enough on the inside. Chapter cohesion began to slip and many brothers felt alienated from the fraternity. It was also almost impossible to sustain and many of the leaders graduated in the spring leaving the chapter to rebuild with new leaders. Realizing the leadership gap, AB selected Sharon Lilly for a semester term as President. Having served as Initiation Chair, she then guided her former initiates through the leadership phase as committee chairs. Although she only fulfilled one semester, she was able to help rebuild morale and provide a historical perspective for the brotherhood that lacked after the mass graduation from 1993-1994 years.
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===2006-2009===
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Nothing of any significance happened during this time period.
  
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AB alumni support has drastically increased over the years. The recent graduates of AB are still active in Phi Sigma Pi in alumni chapters and national committees. Whit AB alumni and active brothers on national committees, AB is one of the most respected chapter nationally. AB Alum Christy Razzano is also one of the first brothers to have served on the National Advisory Board. The Board's purpose is to act as a voice for the chapters to National Council because brothers are often afraid to address National Council directly and Council often feels out of touch with the chapters due to this lack of communications.
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===2010-2012===
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BAM!  With a crash and a bang and a puff of smoke, the [[Greatest Thing Ever|Alpha Chi]] class exploded onto the scene, forever changing the face of Phi Sigma Pi. Yes, this was indeed the dawning of a new era -- an era marked by success, happiness, chivalry, more success, and classy dancing.  Is it an overstatement to say that the Alpha Chi class was the greatest thing to ever happen to Phi Sigma Pi in its entire history?  No, no it is not an overstatement. In fact, it is an understatement.  In conclusion, we are great and do not have huge egos.
  
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Matt Johnston finished Sharon's term as president for the fall 1996 after she graduated. Matt led the fraternity through a reevaluation period, where many amendments were introduced to the bylaws. A new document that Matt had done the groundwork on and was passed a semester later was the Chapter Governance Document (now called the Chapter Operating Procedures). This was created so that many policies and details of bylaws could be laid out that did not necessarily belong in the bylaws. As Initiation Advisor in the Spring of 1997, Brian Smith was able to turn a good program into a great program. He institute an initiate class lock-in where the initiates would learn more about their classmates early on during the program, required the class to make a class paddle to be with an initiate at all times (no matter how hard brothers from AB and other chapters would try to take it) and making a class chant. To use his own catch phrase, he "took it to the next level."
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===2016===
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The Beta Lambda class usurped the Alpha Chi class as the greatest thing to ever happen to the fraternity, and now thinks they reign supreme as the best class in Phi Sigma Pi history.
  
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While there were no major setbacks in the Fall 1997 semester, aside from lengthy debates on t-shirts to sell at convention, there was at least on great accomplishment. Renee Wood, as Vice President, not only brought baked goods to the first meeting every month to celebrate brother's birthdays and other occasions, which fostered a sense of closeness, created the Scholarship Committee. Seeing that scholarship is one of the legs of the Tripod, the Scholarship Committee was long overdue. Alleviating some of the workload from the Public Relations Committee the Scholarship committee took on cultural events and educational and entertaining speakers and workshops. In addition to this, brotherhood tutoring programs were conceived along with a test file, although neither of which succeeded. The Scholarship Committee has since been able to expand the horizons of the fraternity and show that scholarship is more than a GPA.
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===2017===
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In Spring 2017, one of the biggest classes in a while was inducted, the Beta Mu class of 19 initiates. During this semester there was turmoil between E-board members which  lead to some incohesiveness and people feeling discouraged to do executive board positions. However, having formal on a boat at the end of the semester brightened the horizons for the chapter.
  
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The Spring 1998 semester was a turning point for Alpha Beta. With a drastic turnover of leadership roles, meetings became more efficient and productive. One reason for this was an Executive Board Retreat over winter break, which allowed the new E-board to begin working together and defining goals for the upcoming year. This left more time for the 36 active brothers to socialize with 22 new initiates (Phi Class) and find the "Phire" or meaning in the fraternity. It was during this semester that the first chapter composite was made and will continue to be done in the spring semesters.
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In the Fall Semester of 2017 the Alpha Beta Chapter made a few changes in order to help the brotherhood fight issues with apathy. This includes adding Partial Inactivity as an option other than being fully Active or Inactive, an Eboard slide during meeting detailing decisions and discussions in order to have transparency with the brotherhood and redefining all Eboard and chair positions to be kept in Brother resources. The chapter also embraced the new national philanthropy, Hugh O'Brien Youth Foundation (HOBY) by hosting a Community Leadership Workshop (CLeW) to encourage high schoolers to volunteer and continue getting involved with HOBY.
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The Fall 1998 semester proved to be a semester of High spirits for Alpha Beta. At the National Convention, Christy Razzano became the second AB brother to receive a Distinguished Service Key (the first being Mike McQueney in 1992). Alpha Beta was also recognized by Beta Mu (George Washington University) and Alpha Tau (Howard University) for continued support. After over a semester of debate, the chapter created a Brother At Large who would arbitrate conflicts within the chapter and help increase the feeling of brotherhood.
 
  
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The Spring 1999 semester seemed like a struggle of identity, trying to figure out exactly what we stood for as brothers, and what needed to be revised in the chapter. Open forum discussions on hour requirements and the roots of attendance problems allowed every brother to voice their beliefs. While changes were not instituted until the Fall 1999 semester, that semester was critical point in our chapter's history. A Brother of the Week Paddle was created to showcase brother's whose dedication and strength provided invaluable service to the brotherhood. Keeping up with technology, the chapter web page was revamped and a Rush Video was created by Historian, Heather Bustard, to keep Phi Sigma Pi on the cutting edge.
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===2018===
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Spring 2018 started off strong with the changes from the previous semester, but the number of active brothers was very low for the chapter. Two Eboard members were elected to interim chair positions as a result. With national convention looming overhead, Alpha Beta was not sure how it would afford to send even one delegate. A meeting with the chapter consultant led to the chapter feeling as if nationals was trying to shove "twenty more people" down its throat. This was apparently the answer to all our problems. Nonetheless, Alpha Beta was able to kick into gear to host many fundraising events from a Yankee Candle fundraiser and restaurant nights to the 26th annual ABVB. Many generous alumni also donated to help send two brothers to national convention.
  
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Fall 1999 began with an officer and chair retreat in Rehoboth Beach, a tradition to plan the semester’s activities. Here goals were established to maintain strong connections with inactive brothers, accomplished during the semester through email and contact by the Attendance Secretary. Another goal was to encourage better committee involvement, a problem that has always plagued Alpha Beta. While some progress was made, more needs to be done. An oath of secrecy was established to be taken before selection and elections to reinforce the importance of subrosa. Alpha Beta worked on diversity awareness, changes our requirements from hours to numbers and overall we had more fun. Also, we started snapping this semester to indicate agreement during meeting. Lastly, this semester Alpha Beta had webmaster and rush chair positions on a trial basis but these positions did not work out and were ultimately decided against. This semested Alex Sarau received the Richard V. Durand Award for his achievements in electrical engineering.
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With that problem out of the way, the chapter was able to host many events such as the semesterly retreat at Camp Merrylande, Formal at Terrapin turf, a clean up at nearby lake Artemesia, and one of the biggest ABVBs. With over 35 chapters invited, there was a total attendance of around 240 from 7 chapters. Feedback from chapters showed that participants had a great time though there are things to be improved. Alpha Beta also celebrated its 30th Founder's Day on March 5th, 2018 with a banquet planned by previous Vice President, [[Alesia Richardson]]. The semester ended with transitions of chairs that were mostly Beta Xi's, the newest class to be inducted, and a senior farewell brunch to wish our some of our most devoted members luck in their futures.
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The Spring 2000 semester saw a major shift of power. The Executive Board sought to take an active role. Meetings were held twice a month to discuss concerns held by brothers and problems within the chapter. Alpha Beta was finally recognized at National Convention for all of our work. AB was named one of Phi Sigma Pi's Top 10 Chapters for promoting the tripod of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. Our chapter was also given the Jeffrey L. Johnson National Chapter Fellowship Award. Nominated by another chapter, this award recognizes chapters that promote interchapter relations. The chapter also awarded two chapter service keys to Heather Bustard and Brian Smith for their contribution to the chapter.
 
  
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Fall 2000 semester saw its share highs and lows. The semester began with a brotherhood retreat to bond new and older brothers together and to rejuvenate the fire. Despite these attempts to improve brotherhood energy, attendance to meetings and events had fallen brotherhood morale had reached a new low. Nevertheless, the chapter was able to institute bylaw changes regarding probation and defining the positions of Brother at Large and Webmaster. AB’s spirit soon improved. At National Convention, Alpha Beta was honored with three national awards: Charles W. Chance Alumni Award, C. H. McClure Single Service Award, and Jeffrey L. Johnson Fellowship Award. This semester also saw stronger bonds with the National Office and Staff.  
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At the 2018 National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, the chapter made many connections with chapters near and far while one of our delegates, [[Owen Kahn]] became known by all. For other delegate, [[Rhianna McConnell]], the trip to Phoenix was the first time that she flew on an airplane, which was a great opportunity for her to use her camera. Convention ended with Alpha beta receiving the Josh and Britt Marder Excellence in National Philanthropy Award for the CLeW they executed in Fall 2017. This was the first award the chapter had won in about 2 years which made everyone excited to start the next semester.
  
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The Spring 2001 semester represented a paradigm shift for Alpha Beta. Brothers worked hard to further incorporate inactive brothers and those on probation but decided that brothers who do not pay dues are a burden and so expelled numerous people. This semester, the chapter also decided to take the Alpha Delta initiate class of 25 people (24 became brothers) in order to make up for the one-third of the brotherhood that would be graduating. The inner-chapter relations committee was implemented for the first time this semester to pull brothers back in. The tradition of the annual volleyball tournament was continued with success. Other notable events included a trip to the National Zoo, a book club, KEEN (an organization for disabled children) and Best Buddies. Alpha Beta presented the Richard V. Durand award to four graduating seniors this semester – Heather Allen, Ron Eidelman, Dan Becker and Pat Hooper.
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The excitement died down after repeated weather issues that interfered with recruitment events, but the chapter was able to pin 11 initiates in the Beta Omicron class and induct 10 new brothers. We also began the process of changing our committee structures to put less work on chairs and to get more brothers involved. This amendment was passed which reduced our number of committees from 10 to 8. As a chapter, we also decided to remove our 70 member cap because it felt like an arbitrary number and our chapter doesn't need a cap to stay small and close knit.  
  
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Spring 2002 began with an officer/chair retreat in Ocean City, Md. where the brother at large and president worked to create bonding activities to foster brotherhood. Alpha Beta reached a large obstacle this semester facing negative attitudes from brothers and addressed this with an optional open forum to discuss concerns. Almost half of the brotherhood attended. Organized by the brother at large, this forum helped to resolve a lot of the underlying issues, including old brothers v. new brothers, and really got Alpha Beta back on our feet. We also had to re-vote on our initiate class and postpone initiation because of an incorrect reading of the national constitution but after discussion with national council, this problem was successfully solved. The chapter awarded the Chapter Service Key to Melissa Allingham. This semester also re-energized our annual volleyball tournament, organized great scholarship events such as trips to the Krispy Kreme Factory, pulled off service events such as working at a foodbank and wildlife program.
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Throughout the semester, we struggled to plan events, but after a CDM, committees started kicking into action. Some hits were a holiday party, PSP talks, menstrual product collection and packaging with UMD PERIOD, DC museum trip, and formal at Mulligans. We also started rethinking some recruitment events to highlight what we do as a fraternity. In the spring, almost half of our chapter is graduating next semester, so our campus outreach and new brothers committees are going to need to work hard to keep the Alpha Beta chapter thriving.
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Fall 2002 began as a challenging semester for Alpha Beta as three leadership position holders resigned. However, the chapter pulled together quickly to fill the vacancies and focus on positive aspects of the chapter, such as the obtainment of our composite that was overdue by a year because of difficulty with the company. Alpha Beta was also fortunate to win two purple and gold awards at National Convention – Outstanding Initiation Program and Outstanding Spirit Award. This semester we welcomed a new faculty advisor who was not a PSP alumni, we held an officer / chair planning meeting and a brotherhood retreat at Camp Pecometh on Maryland’s Easten Shore. Highly successful events included an Alumni tailgate for homecoming, six flags fundraising that made over $1000, jazz concerts and a trip to the Baltimore Aquarium, work at a food bank and a walk for the homeless. This semester we also held a risk management ad-hoc committee to begin work on an Alpha Beta policy and we began planning for Volleyball and our 15th Founder’s Day Celebration. Also this semester the subrosa fund was established by Alyssa Watzman, based on an anonymous donation by a brother.  
 
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The Spring 2003 semester began with a very successful brotherhood retreat held in Ocean City, Md. We also held a separate officer / chair retreat to bring brothers back together after the winter break and plan for a successful semester. In February 2003, we held an amazing founder’s day celebration and welcomed back over 40 alumni and over 50 brothers for a formal, pre-pinning appreciation potluck and pinning. This event was a huge success and truly helped to mend past alumni relations problems. Volleyball was also hugely successful this semester, pulling in almost 350 inter-chapter brothers despite the cold weather. Two ad-hoc committees were put together this semester – one for risk management that resulted in the passing of a risk management policy, and the other to plan for a regional conference that ultimately was taken over by Alpha Tau at Howard University. After this semester, the chapter was worn out and definitely needed a break but had participated in highly successful events, had a very involved inter-chapter semester and accomplished our goals.
 
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The Fall 2003 semester represented a shift for the chapter which began to take business and involvement more seriously. Since we began the semester in such a great financial position, President Alyssa Watzman began a discussion of a scholarship and after working with an ad-hoc committee, created a charter that was voted on and passed, establishing the Razzano Tripod Scholarship, named after our two notable alumni Christy and Katy. An amendment was also proposed by Alyssa to create an official Alumni Advisor position for the chapter and thus the chapter elected our first three alumni advisors – Kristin O’Planick, Christine McCary and Renee Wood. Brotherhood involvement and attendance was incredible this fall as brothers participated in the DC AIDS Walk and raised over $1,200.00, planted trees as part of Tree-mendous Maryland, competed in a scavenger hunt in Washington and took a tour of Annapolis and the Naval Academy. Through events at The Patriot Center and work with Joe Corbi’s, the chapter raised over $1,500. The chapter also tried some new social events including a day trip to Philadelphia, and had a very successful semi-formal with dinner beforehand and dancing and awards. The chapter experimented with a point system to award high brotherhood attendance, dealt with risk management issues resulting in an ad-hoc committee to review our policy, implemented the practice of approving the minutes at meeting to make things more formal, started an Alumni Appreciation Day for those more active alumni and traveled to Beta Pi, Alpha Rho, Alpha Eta and National Convention. In fall 2003, the chapter maintained its strength and character while improving and changing.
 
  
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===2019===
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Spring of 2019 was an important semester for Alpha Beta. With over 25 brothers graduating at the end of the semester, the pressure was on to recruit new brothers. We ended up inducting 19 new brothers into our Beta Pi class. Highlights of the semester included our annual Alpha Beta volleyball tournament, great events such as a camping trip, ice skating, and multiple trips to help out at A Wider Circle.
  
 
=== The Active Chapter ===
 
=== The Active Chapter ===
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The current chapter...
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The current chapter...is the best!
  
 
=== Past Chapter Presidents ===
 
=== Past Chapter Presidents ===
 
* (1988)
 
* (1988)
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* (1989)
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* Mike McQueney (1989)
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* (1990)
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* Renee Miller (1990)
 
* [[Alicia Feddor]] (1991)
 
* [[Alicia Feddor]] (1991)
 
* [[Dave Fries]] (1992)
 
* [[Dave Fries]] (1992)
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* [[Arnie Seipel]] (Fall 2006-2007)
 
* [[Arnie Seipel]] (Fall 2006-2007)
 
* [[Scott Malecki]] (2008)
 
* [[Scott Malecki]] (2008)
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* [[Matt Tabisz]] (current)
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* [[Chelsea Beran]] (Spring 2008)
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* [[Matt Tabisz]] (2009)
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* [[Sabrina Starkman]] (Spring 2010
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* [[Luke Lindberg]] (Fall 2010-Spring 2011)
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* [[Andrew Kannan]] (Fall 2011)
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* [[Jordan Carter-Reich]] (2011-2012)
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*[[Joshua Gorsky]] (2014)
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*[[Rachelle Kromash]] (2015)
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*[[Victoria Daley]] (2016)
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*[[Bethany Cox]] (2017)
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*[[Sarah Cooney]] (2018)
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*[[Owen Kahn]] (2019)
  
 
=== Chapter Chant ===
 
=== Chapter Chant ===
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Are the best!
 
Are the best!
 
Can you stand up to the test?!
 
Can you stand up to the test?!
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AAAAARRRRRR!!!
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AHOY!
  
 
=== Initiate Classes ===
 
=== Initiate Classes ===
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We are currently inducting the Alpha Phi class.
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We are currently inducting the Beta Omicron class.
 
''Main Article: [[List of Alpha Beta Chapter Initiate Classes]]''
 
''Main Article: [[List of Alpha Beta Chapter Initiate Classes]]''
  
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*Anja Kiraly
 
*Anja Kiraly
 
:Inducted Spring 2009
 
:Inducted Spring 2009
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*Max Gross
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:Inducted Spring 2011
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*Alex Fresh
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:Inducted Fall 2011
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*Patrick Lipsey
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:Inducted Fall 2017
  
 
== Chapter Events & Activities ==
 
== Chapter Events & Activities ==
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=== Volleyball Weekend ===
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=== Alpha Beta Volleyball (ABVB) ===
 
Alpha Beta's annual volleyball tournament and weekend of activities has become a staple in Phi Sigma Pi. Started in 1993 by Alpha Beta Brother Dave Fries, it was the first inter-chapter event, and remains one of the largest in the nation. In 2008, over 250 Brothers from other chapters, from Gamma Epsilon at the University of Florida to Beta Epsilon at Syracuse University, attended the event.  It is held in the Spring semester each year.
 
Alpha Beta's annual volleyball tournament and weekend of activities has become a staple in Phi Sigma Pi. Started in 1993 by Alpha Beta Brother Dave Fries, it was the first inter-chapter event, and remains one of the largest in the nation. In 2008, over 250 Brothers from other chapters, from Gamma Epsilon at the University of Florida to Beta Epsilon at Syracuse University, attended the event.  It is held in the Spring semester each year.
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=== 5K for Teach For America ===
 
=== 5K for Teach For America ===
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In the spring of 2008 Alpha Beta held its first 5K. The race was to raise money for Phi Sigma Pi's national philanthropy, Teach For America.
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In the spring of 2008 Alpha Beta held its first 5K. The race was to raise money for Phi Sigma Pi's national philanthropy, Teach For America. Since Phi Sigma Pi now has a different national philanthropy, this event no longer occurs.
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=== Golf Tournament ===
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=== Phi Sig's UMD Campus-Wide Dance Party ===
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This dance-tastic spectacle is held every May at the University of Maryland.  While it is sponsored by the Alpha Beta chapter, Phi Sig's UMD Campus-Wide Dance Party is open to the entire student body.  Maryland students get jiggy wit' it in every building at the University, from the Stamp Student Union to McKeldin Library to the Comcast Center to Anne Arundel Hall. This event no longer occurs.
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===Dodge Ball Tournament===
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Every fall, the Alpha Beta chapter hosts a dodge ball tournament to benefit a charity of the chapter's choosing. The event is open to all students at the University as well as alumni and other chapters. In 2017, the tournament benefited direct Relief in hopes of helping those effected by the recent hurricanes.
  
 
== Notable Alumni ==
 
== Notable Alumni ==
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* 2008 [[Top In Region Award]] - [[Capitol Region]] (Tie with [[Alpha Rho]] - Virginia Tech)
 
* 2008 [[Top In Region Award]] - [[Capitol Region]] (Tie with [[Alpha Rho]] - Virginia Tech)
 
* 2008 [[Joseph Torchia Outstanding Chapter Award]]
 
* 2008 [[Joseph Torchia Outstanding Chapter Award]]
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* 2013 [[Charles W. Chance Alumni Award]]
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* 2013 [[Top in Region Award]]
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* 2015 [[Top in Region Award]]
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* 2016 [[Top in Region Award]]
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* 2018 [[Josh and Britt Marder Excellence in National Philanthropy Award]]
  
 
=== University Awards ===
 
=== University Awards ===
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= Further Resources =
 
= Further Resources =
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* [http://www.phisigmapi-ab.com Alpha Beta Chapter Website]
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* [https://www.phisigmapialphabeta.com/ Alpha Beta Chapter Website]
 
* [http://www.umd.edu University of Maryland Website]
 
* [http://www.umd.edu University of Maryland Website]
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* [http://www.phisigmapi.org/alphabeta Alpha Beta Chapter Portal]
  
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=In the News=
 +
* [http://www.url.com Article Name]
  
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{{AB}}
 
{{Collegiate Chapters}}
 
{{Collegiate Chapters}}
 
[[Category:Chapters]]
 
[[Category:Chapters]]
 
[[Category:Collegiate Chapters]]
 
[[Category:Collegiate Chapters]]
 
[[Category:Active Chapters]]
 
[[Category:Active Chapters]]
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[[Category:Capitol Region]]
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[[Category:Capital Region]]
 
[[Category:Torchia Recipients]]
 
[[Category:Torchia Recipients]]
 
[[Category:Alpha Beta Chapter]]
 
[[Category:Alpha Beta Chapter]]

Latest revision as of 16:16, 17 April 2021

Alpha Beta Chapter (Founded 5 March 1988) is located at the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland. The Chapter was founded by Sigma Chapter alumnus Mike McQueney (Σ 787) and is a member of the Capital Region. It is also the first nationally recognized chapter to harbor the quasi-secret Aces organization.

Alpha Beta Chapter Lock-In, 2009
Alpha Beta Chapter Photo, Spring 2018

Chapter History

Founding

In the late 1980s, four dedicated graduating Sigma brothers made a pledge to do their share in helping the fraternity expand. Each brother continued their education at a new university and they pledged to each other and the fraternity to start new chapters at these schools. Since no new chapters had successfully chartered and remained active in 50 years, you can imagine the excitement when all four of these brothers accomplished their mission. Alpha Beta was the first successful Alpha Chapter and started the rebirth of the fraternity. The founders (in order) were Mike McQueney (AB), Jeff Johnson (AG), Jamie (AD), and Dave Eschelman (AE). According to Mike, Jeff wanted to be the first one to start a chapter in the new wave and the competition was fierce, but Mike won by 14 days with the Alpha Beta Chapter at the University of Maryland at College Park! GO TERPS!

Mike McQueney came to UMD to pursue his graduate degree in Biochemistry. Amazingly he had time to induct 16 brothers on March 5, 1988 and guide them through their first few semesters. Alpha Beta started out as a colony, meaning it started with a small number of brothers and grew outward instead of starting with enormous numbers and shrinking downward. The 16 charter brothers then expanded greatly the following semester. Renee A. Chen (née Miller, AB 34) became Secretary in 1989 and worked closely with Letti Large Becker, Phi Sigma Pi's first Executive Director, to institute the chapter's administrative protocols. Realizing the amazing potential of the Alpha Beta chapter, Renee became President in 1990. At the fall recruitment meeting she told aspiring pledges she was looking for "enthusiastic people who wanted to make a positive difference in the world, and who just happened to have a high GPA." The numbers grew even more, but the fledgling chapter still a had difficult time defining its identity and creating a sense of brotherhood. The fraternity began to question what it meant to be a brother and many brothers did not take the Tripod seriously. Something had to be done.

Early Years

In the Fall 1991 semester, Alicia Feddor, the President of Alpha Beta, called in a special group counselor to work with the chapter. Enough people believed in Phi Sigma Pi to make it into something great, but the chapter needed help defining goals and expectations. The counselor worked wonders for the group and some major decisions still in place in Alpha Beta came from these sessions. For instance, we switched the term of office from academic to calendar years so that officers would have access to the past officers and have better training. The fraternity also established a membership cap of 70 brothers with the hopes of preventing fragmentation and loss of identity.

During the spring of 1993, AB put together the first ever large interchapter event (the brain child of Dave Fries) with the volleyball tournament. Visiting brothers paid less than $5 to attend and stayed over for a huge party. Each year the party's theme changes and each year more and more brothers attend as the event becomes a "don't miss" in the fraternity. In Spring 1996 Omicron unseated the Alpha Beta team who had won the coveted title since the first tournament.

During 1994, AB experienced a consolidation of its institutions and the feelings of brotherhood. While Christy Razzano was president, fraternity spirit was realized, and a chapter pride developed. We expanded our traditional interchapter ties and created new friendships among other chapters as we expanded our national recognition. AB also assisted Derek Simmons, a Rho brother who also started Alpha Tau, in chartering two new chapters in Washington, D.C - Beta Lambda at American University and Beta Mu at George Washington University. Christy, Katy Razzano (her twin and VP) and Suzanne Moore (Chapter Historian) helped Derek with the colonization process, including interviews, meet nights, and chapter involvement. AB brothers took littles from these new chapters to guide them into Phi Sigma Pi. AB lines still run through Beta Mu (and Gamma Pi from similar work of Sharon Lilly in 1997).

The end of Spring semester proved to all the brothers that AB was truly something amazing. Attendance was the highest it had ever been and active brotherhood reached its cap. Initiation became more intense and selective and service and fundraising took on new meaning to the chapter. The service chairs Chris Reynolds and Adrienne Tinana created service handbooks explaining the purpose of each service project and we all learned not only to do it for the hours, but because it meant something. During this time, we also expanded the scholarship aspect of our tripod. WE wanted more than just good grades and we established the cultural event criteria to encourage brothers to get involved in the arts, lectures, theater, and other scholastic and cultural opportunities in D.C. This "cultural event" criteria would later evolve into the scholarship committee and semester requirement, which would spread nationally to chapters everywhere.

We also created the scholarship award, the Richard V. Durand Outstanding Scholarship Award. This award is only given to someone who excels dramatically in their academic field while also maintaining active and consistent brotherhood. Several new positions were created or expanded on. VP Katy Razzano, who was secretary under Nicole, proposed changing the secretary position into three separate positions. The secretary position split into three separate entities with individual, manageable, responsibilities. Christy, who had served as Historian under Nicole, also pushed to increase the role of Historian by adding more responsibilities to ensure that the chapter doesn't lose site of the past. The Outreach Committee got underway with starting alumni newsletters and interchapter relations. AB was one of the first chapters to formalize an interchapter relations position. Not all the suggestions and decisions were popular, but they effectively consolidated AB as more than an institution, it was a brotherhood.

By Fall 1994, AB had reached top 5 status nationally and was informed that we would be hosting National Convention. We increased our name on campus through intramural sports and other activities. The bonds of brotherhood were so incredibly strong. By convention, AB was at one of the highest points in history. AB received its first national award. We won the McClure Single Service Award for our work with the CHOICE program. The chapter tutored and mentored DC area adolescents whom had gotten into some trouble. At the end of the semester, the chapter wanted to do something special for them. Chris Renyolds put together an incredible carnival, complete with games and guest athletes from a variety of sports at UMD. However, the most famous and influential were Joe Smith (of the Golden State Warriors) and Mark Mason (of the Dallas Cowboys). The project intended to inspire these students to stay in school. These athletes were their role models and their opinions meant a lot. The athletes played with the children, took pictures, and signed autographs. When AB won this award, brothers broke down and cried. Not because we won, but because the project had meant so much to us, especially those who directly took part in the mentorship program. The recognition of something that meant so much to us filled us all with great emotion and pride.

Another highlight from this convention was a homecoming of sorts. Two extremely dedicated AB brothers had transferred to other universities. Jon Pinto, and Alpha Beta service chair and motivator extraordinaire transferred to UCONN and started Beta Pi. Denise Barnes, another AB service chair, transferred to UNC-Wilmington and started Beta Omicron. Or AB brothers, along with our new chapters in DC, received their charters at the 1993 Convention in Baltimore. AB took pride in their achievements and great joy in sharing this day with them. Additionally, Towson University (Gamma Pi) received a charter in Spring 1997 thanks to AB brother Sharon Lilly. Also, Christy Razzano started the Chesapeake Area Alumni Chapter soon after her graduation in Spring 1995.

Alpha Beta Chapter Car Wash, 2006

Alpha Beta increased its name recognition nationally and locally in 1995 under Adam Feinburg. In the Spring of 1995, AB hosted the first ever regional conference during our Founder's Day weekend. AB invited presidents from other chapters to speak on topics in which their chapters excelled. The National Vice President of Chapter Development Lindsay Fernandez and then chapter consultant Betsy Robinson (now Jaquith) also spoke at the seminars and banquet. The National President Jeff Johnson spoke at our formal that year and AB presented two alumni awards to alumni not of AB. Phil Morrison of Alpha Lambda and Colleen Dougherty of Alpha Theta provided a great deal of support for AB and created role models for graduating AB brothers to follow. Coincidentally, both of these brothers received the National Distinguished Service Key at the Convention in the fall of 1995 in Norfolk, VA.

1995-2000

Main Article: 1995-2000 Alpha Beta Chapter History

2000-2005

Main Article: 2000-2005 Alpha Beta Chapter History

2006-2009

Nothing of any significance happened during this time period.

2010-2012

BAM! With a crash and a bang and a puff of smoke, the Alpha Chi class exploded onto the scene, forever changing the face of Phi Sigma Pi. Yes, this was indeed the dawning of a new era -- an era marked by success, happiness, chivalry, more success, and classy dancing. Is it an overstatement to say that the Alpha Chi class was the greatest thing to ever happen to Phi Sigma Pi in its entire history? No, no it is not an overstatement. In fact, it is an understatement. In conclusion, we are great and do not have huge egos.

2016

The Beta Lambda class usurped the Alpha Chi class as the greatest thing to ever happen to the fraternity, and now thinks they reign supreme as the best class in Phi Sigma Pi history.

2017

In Spring 2017, one of the biggest classes in a while was inducted, the Beta Mu class of 19 initiates. During this semester there was turmoil between E-board members which lead to some incohesiveness and people feeling discouraged to do executive board positions. However, having formal on a boat at the end of the semester brightened the horizons for the chapter.

In the Fall Semester of 2017 the Alpha Beta Chapter made a few changes in order to help the brotherhood fight issues with apathy. This includes adding Partial Inactivity as an option other than being fully Active or Inactive, an Eboard slide during meeting detailing decisions and discussions in order to have transparency with the brotherhood and redefining all Eboard and chair positions to be kept in Brother resources. The chapter also embraced the new national philanthropy, Hugh O'Brien Youth Foundation (HOBY) by hosting a Community Leadership Workshop (CLeW) to encourage high schoolers to volunteer and continue getting involved with HOBY.

2018

Spring 2018 started off strong with the changes from the previous semester, but the number of active brothers was very low for the chapter. Two Eboard members were elected to interim chair positions as a result. With national convention looming overhead, Alpha Beta was not sure how it would afford to send even one delegate. A meeting with the chapter consultant led to the chapter feeling as if nationals was trying to shove "twenty more people" down its throat. This was apparently the answer to all our problems. Nonetheless, Alpha Beta was able to kick into gear to host many fundraising events from a Yankee Candle fundraiser and restaurant nights to the 26th annual ABVB. Many generous alumni also donated to help send two brothers to national convention.

With that problem out of the way, the chapter was able to host many events such as the semesterly retreat at Camp Merrylande, Formal at Terrapin turf, a clean up at nearby lake Artemesia, and one of the biggest ABVBs. With over 35 chapters invited, there was a total attendance of around 240 from 7 chapters. Feedback from chapters showed that participants had a great time though there are things to be improved. Alpha Beta also celebrated its 30th Founder's Day on March 5th, 2018 with a banquet planned by previous Vice President, Alesia Richardson. The semester ended with transitions of chairs that were mostly Beta Xi's, the newest class to be inducted, and a senior farewell brunch to wish our some of our most devoted members luck in their futures.

At the 2018 National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, the chapter made many connections with chapters near and far while one of our delegates, Owen Kahn became known by all. For other delegate, Rhianna McConnell, the trip to Phoenix was the first time that she flew on an airplane, which was a great opportunity for her to use her camera. Convention ended with Alpha beta receiving the Josh and Britt Marder Excellence in National Philanthropy Award for the CLeW they executed in Fall 2017. This was the first award the chapter had won in about 2 years which made everyone excited to start the next semester.

The excitement died down after repeated weather issues that interfered with recruitment events, but the chapter was able to pin 11 initiates in the Beta Omicron class and induct 10 new brothers. We also began the process of changing our committee structures to put less work on chairs and to get more brothers involved. This amendment was passed which reduced our number of committees from 10 to 8. As a chapter, we also decided to remove our 70 member cap because it felt like an arbitrary number and our chapter doesn't need a cap to stay small and close knit.

Throughout the semester, we struggled to plan events, but after a CDM, committees started kicking into action. Some hits were a holiday party, PSP talks, menstrual product collection and packaging with UMD PERIOD, DC museum trip, and formal at Mulligans. We also started rethinking some recruitment events to highlight what we do as a fraternity. In the spring, almost half of our chapter is graduating next semester, so our campus outreach and new brothers committees are going to need to work hard to keep the Alpha Beta chapter thriving.

2019

Spring of 2019 was an important semester for Alpha Beta. With over 25 brothers graduating at the end of the semester, the pressure was on to recruit new brothers. We ended up inducting 19 new brothers into our Beta Pi class. Highlights of the semester included our annual Alpha Beta volleyball tournament, great events such as a camping trip, ice skating, and multiple trips to help out at A Wider Circle.

The Active Chapter

The current chapter...is the best!

Past Chapter Presidents

Chapter Chant

Alpha Beta back again! Alpha Beta to the end! Alpha Beta is the best! Alpha Beta loves the rest! A-L-P-H-A- B-E-T-A say we… Are the best! Can you stand up to the test?! AHOY!

Initiate Classes

We are currently inducting the Beta Omicron class. Main Article: List of Alpha Beta Chapter Initiate Classes

Honorary Brothers

  • Anja Kiraly
Inducted Spring 2009
  • Max Gross
Inducted Spring 2011
  • Alex Fresh
Inducted Fall 2011
  • Patrick Lipsey
Inducted Fall 2017

Chapter Events & Activities

Alpha Beta Volleyball (ABVB)

Alpha Beta's annual volleyball tournament and weekend of activities has become a staple in Phi Sigma Pi. Started in 1993 by Alpha Beta Brother Dave Fries, it was the first inter-chapter event, and remains one of the largest in the nation. In 2008, over 250 Brothers from other chapters, from Gamma Epsilon at the University of Florida to Beta Epsilon at Syracuse University, attended the event. It is held in the Spring semester each year.

5K for Teach For America

In the spring of 2008 Alpha Beta held its first 5K. The race was to raise money for Phi Sigma Pi's national philanthropy, Teach For America. Since Phi Sigma Pi now has a different national philanthropy, this event no longer occurs.

Phi Sig's UMD Campus-Wide Dance Party

This dance-tastic spectacle is held every May at the University of Maryland. While it is sponsored by the Alpha Beta chapter, Phi Sig's UMD Campus-Wide Dance Party is open to the entire student body. Maryland students get jiggy wit' it in every building at the University, from the Stamp Student Union to McKeldin Library to the Comcast Center to Anne Arundel Hall. This event no longer occurs.

Dodge Ball Tournament

Every fall, the Alpha Beta chapter hosts a dodge ball tournament to benefit a charity of the chapter's choosing. The event is open to all students at the University as well as alumni and other chapters. In 2017, the tournament benefited direct Relief in hopes of helping those effected by the recent hurricanes.

Notable Alumni

Founding Member
DSK 1992
Richard C. Todd and Claudia Pennock Todd Tripod Scholarship recipient, 1995
DSK 1998
Rolla F. Wood Graduate Scholarship recipient, 2006

Chapter Honors and Awards

National Awards

University Awards

Other Awards

  • Key of the City of Havre de Grace, MD (1999)

Further Resources

In the News

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