This first semester as Grand Master has been very busy given all the wonderful things we are doing. I never knew that this position would bring about such a large load, but it has been the greatest semester of my college experience. When I took this position over in late November from Chris Hartley ’00, I received the order in the best shape that it has been in in years. With the help of the brothers and many of the alumni in the house, we have run with this opportunity and are looking forward to becoming the top house on campus in the fall.

In the past semester, the brothers made a significant jump in the all-fraternity grades rave. We jumped up seven spots, putting us above the All-University Men’s Average and putting us .05 of a point away from the All-Fraternity Average. Last semester’s pledges moved up seven spots as well, placing them .3 points above the All-University Freshman Average. I am extremely proud of this improvement.

Along with the improvement of grades, we made great strides at the Annual Greek Recognition Night and walked away with three top awards. Junior Jason Plagman ’01 won the Adopt-A-School award. This award is presented to the individual that demonstrates the most outstanding community service in the Lawrence area. Freshman Daniel Klein ’03 was presented the Most Outstanding New Member Award. This is the second year in a row that a Gamma-O brother has brought home this award. As for the Chapter House, we received Honorable Mention Chapter Excellence Award.

As for rush, we have already started recruiting some outstanding young men for the fall semester. On March 1, we had 20 prospective members come by and check out the Chapter House during our first rush event. If you know any current or future college students that you believe to be a worthy addition to the chapter, please see the information below.

In conclusion, I would like to thank you all for your outstanding support and dedication to this order. I am looking forward to the future of the chapter as we grow together and continue to follow the path of outstanding success. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at kukappasig@yahoo.com.

A.E.K.D.B.

Billy Brandtonies ’02