2021 Fall Founder’s Day Luncheon And Past Donors Recognition Event
As part of the Homecoming Weekend festivities, over 90 alumni brothers, chapter officers, and spouses/friends gathered at the Erickson Alumni Center on Sunday, October 3rd for a celebration of WV Alpha Donors—both past and present…along with a Founder’s Day Remembrance.
Dom Martin ’19, Chapter President, provided an update on the chapter and their various activities. While maintaining the highest Greek GPA on campus (3.2), the actives are also “kicking butt” in intramurals, student government, and university philanthropy. Luke Erny ’20 has been elected Chapter President and his term will begin in January 2022.
John Miesner ’81, House Corp President, overviewed the ‘State Of The House’, while also recognizing the many alumni volunteers who provide valuable support to the chapter and chapter house. “Our cash flow covers our debt load. We are blessed to have so many who care,” noted Brother Miesner.
Zach Mendelson ’79, assisted by Bob Douglas ’50, presented recognition pins to brothers attaining their 5-year, 10-year, and 25-year alumni status. It’s always a treat to recognize Brothers celebrating 50 years of Phi Psi. Due to Covid, Brothers from both 1970 and 1971 were recognized. Attendees included: John Gaydos, Ben Hardesty, Bill Hevener, Tom Mainella, Steve Miller, Rick Pill, Gary Pyles, Rick Pyles, Dan Richards, John Thomas, and Allen Vanatter.
Rick Wagener ’69, and his wife Jay, also attended and were recognized for their $1M gift to the WVU baseball program. For their generosity, the Wageners’ namesake will be recognized on the field beginning in 2022, and known as Wagener Field at Monongalia County Ballpark.
Tim Miller ’74 was formally introduced as the Campaign Chairman for our chapter’s upcoming campaign—Live Ever. Die Never.
A Stronger Tomorrow. Tim noted, “It is impossible to move forward this new campaign until we close the door on prior campaigns.” Several bronze plaques were unveiled recognizing significant donors, including:
- Bob Reynolds ’71 – Robert L. Reynolds Breezeway
- Bob Douglas ’50 – Robert E. Douglas Veranda
- John L. Thomas ’70 – Recognizing/remembering: John R. Hayne ’70, Charles Lewis ’70, and David Laughlin ’69
- John R. Holiday ’53 – Amici Usque Ad Aras
- Richard Adams ’65 – The Adams Living Room
- W.C. Bird ’65 & R.B. Bird ’73 – Honoring West Virginia Alumni
Forest “Jack” Bowman ’58 offered personal reflections of his 63 years in Phi Psi and how much the fraternity has impacted his life, as well as the importance of a new campaign now. The retired (and revered) law school professor, legal scholar, and history buff has become an author in his retirement years, and his latest book, All Our Yesterdays, is a story of grit and determination. It is a must read that you can find on Amazon.com.
