~ The Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta ~ History

The history of the Fraternity of PHI GAMMA DELTA in the City of Pittsburgh is comprised of the intertwined histories of: PHI GAMMA DELTA Fraternity born in 1848 in Canonsburg, PA, the “Old” SIGMA Chapter of the Western University of chartered in 1863, the Pittsburgh OMICRON Graduate Chapter chartered in 1889, the ’s local fraternity, PHI ZETA PHI, chartered 1904, and the “PI” SIGMA Chapter re-chartered in 1916.

The complete compilation of PHI GAMMA DELTA magazine and PITT yearbook documented history of the Fraternity of PHI GAMMA DELTA in Pittsburgh can be found in two volumes in the International Fraternity’s On-line Archives in the “Book Section”:

PHI GAMMA DELTA tomos PITTSBURGH PHI GAMMA DELTA PITTSBURGH EKKLESIA Compiled by Bennett T. Wallander, Sr. ‘89

1848 The Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta was born at Jefferson College, in Canonsburg, PA, located 17 miles from Pittsburgh. The first Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity badges were produced in Pittsburgh and the first badge was worn by “Immortal Six” founding father James Elliott, Jr., (Jefferson) ’48. On his way back to Jefferson College, he wore the badge - which he was not supposed to do. Brother Elliott grew up in Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh, PA. 1852 August 6, the first Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity “Convention” was 1848 ~ Phi Gamma Delta’s “founding father” James Elliott, Jr.’s badge. held at “Arthur’s Hall” in Pittsburgh. 1857 The first (unofficial) graduate chapter of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity was “spasmodically” attempted in Pittsburgh. 1863 August 13, the second Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity “Convention” was held at “Central Hall” on Penn Avenue in Pittsburgh. October 2, the “Old” Sigma Chapter was officially chartered by the Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta at the Western University of Pennsylvania - now the University of Pittsburgh. The chapter founders, referred to as the “Fantastic Five”, were John Haber McCandless ‘64, Robert S. Sill ‘66, John R. Wightman ‘65, Howard M. Howe ‘66, and George I. Whitney ‘64. 1864 August 17, the first Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity “Biennial Convention” was held at “Central Hall” in Pittsburgh. 1869 July 7, the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s “1969 Convention” was held in the “River Parlor” of the “Monongahela House” in Pittsburgh. 1870 “Old Sigma” Chapter gave up her charter due to the decline of the Western University of Pennsylvania during the Civil War, and the over-bearing control of the graduate brothers. 1863 ~ The original charter of the 1879 H. D. Gamble ‘66 was Clerk of the U.S. Circuit Court and U.S. “Old” Sigma Chapter, dated October 2nd. Commissioner in Pittsburgh. 1884 August 26, the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s “20th Anniversary Convention” was held in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh area Phi Gamma Delta graduate brothers began gathering for regular business luncheons and meetings in the economically booming city of Pittsburgh. 1889 Bertrand H. Smyers, Sr. ’93, the “Father of PITT football” organized the University of Pittsburgh’s first football team. He played quarterback. The Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s “1989 Convention” was held in the “Monongahela House” in Pittsburgh.

1891 October 28, the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s “43rd Anniversary 1898 ~ Phi Gamma Delta’s 50th Ekklesia held at the Convention” was held at the “Monongahela House” in Pittsburgh, Schenley Hotel, now the University of Pittsburgh’s Student Union building.

where “May 1st” was officially adopted as Phi Gamma Delta’s “Founders Day.” 1896 October 17, the Pittsburgh Graduate Chapter created and adopted its constitution and elected officers. George W. Guthrie ’66 is President, E. L. Mattern, (Pi) ‘90 is Treasurer, Marcus W. Acheson (Alpha) ‘93 is Recording Secretary. 1898 March 26, the Pittsburgh “Omicron” Graduate Chapter was officially chartered and recognized by the “Grand Chapter” of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s 50th Ekklesia was held at the “new” Schenley Hotel (now University of Pittsburgh Student Union building), the first major event held 1890 ~ Bertrand H. Smyers, Sr. ’93 there. The International Fraternity adopted its “modern” form of and PITT’s first football team. government, eliminating the “Grand Chapter.” 1900 Omicron graduate brothers met every Wednesday at Noon at “Matt Weiss” restaurant on Smithfield Street. Omicron graduate brothers celebrated their first Phi Gamma Delta “Founders Day” on May 1st at the “Monongahela House” restaurant. 1904 November 24, the local fraternity Phi Zeta Phi is started, under the guidance of University of Pittsburgh Chancellor Samuel Black McCormick (Alpha) ’80. His son, James Irwin McCormick ‘07, was an early member of Phi Zeta Phi fraternity. The four Phi Zeta Phi “founding fathers” were Lindsay C. Mitchell ‘07, C. M. Hartman ‘07, C. Floyd Rose ‘07, and H. W. Carey ’06. 1905 “Fighting” Joe Thompson ’05 was quarterback of the PITT

football team. He was the PITT varsity football coach after he 1896 ~ George W. Guthrie ’66. graduated. 1906 January 8, Omicron graduate brothers celebrated their first “Frank Norris Pig Dinner” at the “Fort Pitt Hotel” restaurant. George W. Guthrie ‘66 was elected the first Mayor of the newly consolidated “City of Pittsburgh.” 1907 September 7, the Omicron Graduate Chapter inaugurated “monthly smokers” at the University Club to enable undergraduates to become acquainted with Pittsburgh graduates. Phi Zeta Phi fraternity first petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for a charter at the Chicago Ekklesia and was denied. 1908 Phi Zeta Phi fraternity petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for a charter at the New York City Ekklesia and was denied. The University of Pittsburgh adopted the “PITT PANTHER” as the “official mascot,” created in part by Waldamar “Waldie” Zeig ‘09 1904 ~ University of Pittsburgh Chancellor and Karl Davis ‘10 in the “tower parlor” of Phi Zeta Phi chapter Samuel Black McCormick (Alpha) ’80. house. Brother Karl Davis ‘10 “invented” jersey numbering at PITT. He changed the players numbers every week to sell more programs to put himself through school. 1909 Phi Zeta Phi fraternity petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for a charter at the Detroit Ekklesia and was denied. 1910 “Fighting” Joe Thompson ’05, as PITT’s varsity football coach, and had an undefeated season. 1911 July 5, the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity “63rd Ekklesia” was held at the Schenley Hotel. Phi Zeta Phi fraternity petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for a charter and was denied.

1913 George W. Guthrie ‘66 became Ambassador to Japan under 1904 ~ The Phi Zeta Phi fraternity insignia. POTUS Woodrow Wilson. 1914 October 1, the International Fraternity’s business office was relocated to the “Commonwealth Building” in downtown Pittsburgh. 1915 Phi Zeta Phi fraternity again petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for a charter at the San Francisco Ekklesia and was denied by only 2 votes. 1916 Phi Zeta Phi fraternity petitioned Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity for and was granted a charter at the Cleveland Ekklesia. Phi Zeta Phi fraternity moved from 2504 Meyran Avenue and rented 4725

Wallingford Street, owned by University of Pittsburgh Chancellor 1908 ~ “Fighting” Joe Thompson ’05. Samuel Black McCormick (Alpha) ‘80. December 29, “Pi” Sigma Chapter was officially re-chartered by the Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta. James DeHart ’18 was the PITT varsity football quarterback. Playing against “Navy,” he returned a 101-yard kick-off for a touchdown. Joe Thompson ’05 became a Pennsylvania State Senator. 1917 February 3, 228 FIJIs attended the Pi Sigma Chapter installation meeting held at the Schenley Hotel. The entire Phi Zeta Phi fraternity was initiated into the Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta. Dr. H. Clifford “Doc” Carlson ’18 was the varsity football team captain. Frank E. Finley ‘19 was the PITT varsity baseball team 1912 ~ Omicron Graduate Chapter Founders Day dinner at the Fort Pitt Hotel. captain. 1918 Due to World War I and the depletion of brothers, The Pi Sigma chapter temporarily moved out of 4725 Wallingford Street to 3501 Terrace Street (where the University of Pittsburgh Dental School is now located.) The chapter displayed its “Service Flag” with 48 stars - the number of brothers who served their country at the time. Dr. H. Clifford “Doc” Carlson ’18 graduated, and two years later became PITT’s most storied varsity basketball coach for 31 years. Pi Sigma Chapter had nine brothers on the varsity football team, four of which were nationally known as “The PITT Flying Squadron”: Jimmy Dehart ‘18, Andy Hastings ‘18, Tom Davies ‘22, and Jim Morrow ‘19. 1919 The Chapter house on 4725 Wallingford Street was purchased

from Chancellor Samuel Black McCormick (Alpha) ‘80 for 1917 ~ The first page of 228 signatures from the Pi $19,000 with the help of Roland A. McCrady ‘11 and his father, Sigma Chapter Installation Meeting ledger. who took out and held the mortgage of $15,000 for the chapter. Brother McCrady ‘11 was appointed Section Chief by the International Fraternity. He held the position for five years, and then served as the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity’s Ekklesia Parliamentarian until his retirement in 1964. The Pi Sigma basketball team won the Interfraternity League basketball championship for the third consecutive year. 1920 Pi Sigma FIJIs raised over $60,000 to finance the University of Pittsburgh’s “Alumni Hall.” A. R. Hamilton ‘94 and W. C. Coffin ‘83 each donated $10,000 and had recital rooms named after them. Tom Davies ‘22 was named varsity football team captain and was selected for the national “All-American” football team. 1917 ~ Dr. H. Clifford “Doc” Carlson ’18. 1921 Pi Sigma Chapter won the International Fraternity’s “Fraternity Journal” competition. 1922 Lawrence I. Klinestiver ‘22 was awarded the University of Pittsburgh’s commencement “Pepper Prize” for being chosen the “Ideal PITT Student.” 1923 The Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity “75th Anniversary Ekklesia” was held at the Schenley Hotel. Roland A. McCrady ’11 became the Section Chief of Section VI. 1924 Ira Hill ‘24 was the PITT varsity baseball team captain and awarded the University of Pittsburgh’s commencement “Pepper Prize” for being chosen the “Ideal PITT Student.” Seven Pi Sigma brothers were starters on the varsity football team.

1925 Pi Sigma brothers received 12 of the 22 varsity football letters 1916 ~ The Pi Sigma Chapter house on given by the University of Pittsburgh. Pi Sigma Chapter won the 4725 Wallingford Street. IFC track competition. 1926 Ralph Chase ’26 was captain of the PITT varsity football team and was selected for the national “All-American” football team. Pi Sigma won the IFC basketball competition. 1928 “Fighting” Joe Thompson ’05 was awarded the Congressional medal of Honor for his service during World War I. He passed Ad Astra on February 1st from head wounds he received in France during the war.

1930 Ralph Daugherty ’32, PITT varsity football center, was selected 1918 ~ The “PITT Flying Squadron”. for the national “All-American” football team. 1933 Bill McNair (Gettysburg) ’00, an active Omicron Chapter supporter, was elected Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh. Robert Beck ‘33 was President of the Interfraternity Council. Pi Sigma took first place in the IFC Horseshoe competition. 1936 Pi Sigma Chapter won the IFC Efficiency and Cooperation award. 1937 Pi Sigma Chapter took third place in IFC Greek Sing. The trophy room was paneled in knotty pine wood. 1938 Pi Sigma Chapter won the All-Points trophy for intramurals. This was the first year the award was given. J. Robert LaRue ‘38 played halfback on the PITT football team, and won the Rose Bowl that year. Bill Sterling ‘38 was IFC President. The basement was paneled in knotty pine wood. 1920 ~ Tom Davies ’22. 1939 The pool table was purchased for the chapter house. The pool table was placed in the original chapter room in the basement, and survived for the rest of the chapter house’s existence. Pi Sigma chapter won the All-points Intramurals trophy, and took second place in IFC Golf. 1940 Pi Sigma Chapter took second in IFC Greek Sing. 1941 Twenty-one graduate FIJIs were on the University of Pittsburgh faculty and staff. Pi Sigma Chapter won the Interfraternity Volleyball championship and the All-points Championship for a second year in a row. Roy W. Walters, Sr. ’17 became Section Chief of Section VI. John D. Sheppard ‘44 was initiated as an undergraduate brother. 1942 The Pi Sigma Chapter won the All-points trophy for intramurals 1923 ~ Roland A. McCrady ’11.

for the third year in a row, as well as the Interfraternity “Sing” contest. Dick Mansfield ‘42 was president of the Interfraternity Council. 1943 The Pi Sigma Chapter won the All-points trophy for intramurals for a fourth year in a row. Robert R. Campbell ‘44 was President of the PITT Student Conference, Lee McFadden, Jr. ‘44 was President of the Interfraternity Council, Charles W. Bossman ‘44 was Editor of “The Panther”, and William Newstetter ‘45 was President of the “Druids.” 1944 Dixon Schrum ’23 was appointed Trustee of the University of Pittsburgh.

1945 The Pi Sigma graduates “burned the mortgage” for 4725 1926 ~ Ralph Chase ’26. Wallingford Street. Harvey L. “Leslie” Sarles ‘48 was the Interfraternity Council President. 1946 The Pi Sigma Chapter held a memorial service at Heinz Chapel for the chapter brothers lost during World War II. The Pi Sigma graduates formed a committee to explore building a new chapter house. 1947 Pi Sigma Chapter won the Intramural All-points trophy, and took first place in IFC Greek Sing. 1948 Pi Sigma Chapter and the Omicron Graduate Chapter hosted Phi Gamma Delta’s “100th Anniversary” Ekklesia at the William Penn 1930 ~ Ralph Daugherty ’32. Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. The graduate brothers formed the “house corporation,” to be known as the Pi Sigma Association. Also, local chapter graduate dues were initiated to finance newsletters, social gatherings, and to assist the chapter with finances. Brother John D. Sheppard ‘44 was the first Pi Sigma Association President. Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in IFC tennis, IFC football, IFC swimming, and won the IFC Spring Festival Float Parade. The chapter won the International Fraternity’s “Jordon Bowl” for academics. 1949 Pi Sigma Chapter won the Interfraternity Football Championship. They also took first place in IFC Greek Sing, and 2nd in IFC bridge and volleyball. The Pi Sigma Chapter promoted 1939 ~ the pool table was installed in the chapter “serenading” FIJI sweethearts on the entry room stairs who house. Chapter President Bill Edmunds ’40 took the accepted “pins” from brothers. first shot. 1950 Pi Sigma Chapter was the top-ranked scholarship chapter in Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. The chapter won the Interfraternity All- points trophy and the IFC Scholastic Plaque, as well as the Sweepstakes competition. 1951 Pi Sigma Chapter began hosting buffet dinners after every PITT football home game. John D. Sheppard ‘44 became Section Chief of Section VII. The chapter won the IFC Basketball Championship, and the IFC Sweepstakes Race for a fourth year in a row. On the PITT varsity football team, Bill Reynolds ‘53 and Dave Fyock ‘56 were halfbacks, and Bob Osterhout ‘54 was quarterback. 1952 Pi Sigma Chapter took a definite “upswing” and completed 1941 ~ Dr. Roy W. Walters, Sr. ’17. numerous physical improvements to 4725 Wallingford Street. The chapter won the Interfraternity Council Scholarship award for the “pledge class with the highest scholastic average,” as well as the Fraternities Advisors Association scholarship trophy. The chapter won the IFC Basketball Championship for a 2nd year in a row, as well as Sweepstakes competition, and took 2nd in IFC bridge. 1953 Pi Sigma Chapter and graduates installed the trophy case in the trophy room in memory of Donald R. Fanning ‘53. The Omicron chapter held its annual Founders Day dinner at the Law & Finance Building, with over 150 brothers attending. Recordings of Phi Gamma Delta songs were played and the undergraduates led the group in singing. Dr. H. Clifford “Doc” Carlson ’18 resigned as PITT varsity basketball coach and became Director 1948 ~ Pi Sigma brothers marched in the of PITT’s Student Men’s Health Services. They took first place in Fraternity’s 100th Anniversary Parade. the All-Campus basketball championship and first place in IFC bowling. 1954 Pi Sigma Chapter won the All-campus softball championship, 1st in IFC volleyball, and 2nd in IFC wrestling. 1955 Robert H. Wilkins ’55 was President of PITT’s Men’s Council and junior class, as well as Vice President of ODK, and a member of Druids, the yearbook staff, and a varsity swimmer. Joseph Lamertine ‘58 was the “PITT Panther”, the official mascot of all varsity teams. The Omicron Graduate Chapter held a golf event at Edgewood Country Club. Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC track and volleyball, and 2nd in Greek Sing. 1956 Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd place in Homecoming Float parade. 1957 Tom Latimer ‘55 was chapter President and PITT’s Over-all Chairman for Homecoming. John D. Sheppard ’44 was elected 1951 ~ John D. Sheppard ’44. Omicron Chapter Treasurer. The Pig Dinner was held on May 3rd at the University Club. Pi Sigma Chapter took 1st in IFC volleyball, and 2nd in IFC basketball and Spring Carnival. 1958 Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in Greek Sing and IFC softball. 1959 Dave Hirst ‘59 set PITT’s all-time record in men’s gymnastics on the flying rings for the most points scored in one season. With the advent of the trimester system at the University of Pittsburgh, the Pi Sigma Chapter created the house “study filing cabinet”

which contained class notes and tests to aid brothers in their 1953 ~ The trophy room in memory of examinations. The Pi Sigma Educational Foundation was Donald R. Fanning ’53. approved by the Internal Revenue Service. 1961 The Pi Sigma Chapter drops to only 17 undergraduates and made a major RUSH effort, recruiting 17 pledges. During Greek Week, “The Brothers Four” (a nationally known rock & roll band) performed on PITT campus and appeared at the FIJI house after their performance. 1962 Pi Sigma Chapter took the IFC All-Sport trophy. Dr. Henry “Doc” Carlson ’18 retired as PITT’s Men’s Basketball coach, again. 1963 Pi Sigma Chapter took 1st place in IFC football and IFC volleyball, as well as the IFC All-Sport trophy, and 2nd in IFC 1959 ~ The Pi Sigma Chapter house on 4725 Wallingford Street. bowling. The renovation of the chapter house began to turn it into a “colonial-style architecture” building. 1964 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC ping-pong, 2nd in IFC swimming, and 2nd in IFC golf. The third floor of 4725 Wallingford Street was completely remodeled. 1965 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC ping-pong, IFC pool, and 2nd in IFC swimming and volleyball. John D. Sheppard ’44 was a charter recipient of the “Distinguished FIJI Award” from the International Fraternity. The “authentic spaghetti dinner” was first 1963 ~ The renovation of the chapter house. mentioned as a RUSH event. 1966 The Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in IFC ping-pong. A second mortgage through the International Fraternity was taken out and was used to completely remodeled the second floor. The chapter house front porch was removed, and the house was painted white for the first time. J. Robert Horner’ 50 was the Pi Sigma Association Treasurer. The chapter won the International Fraternity’s “Condon Cup” for academics. 1967 February 18, more than 120 graduate and undergraduate brothers of Pi Sigma Chapter culminated their celebration of 50

years in the Fraternity with a special Frank Norris Pig Dinner at 1967 ~ Roland A. McCrady ’11. Stouffers restaurant in Pittsburgh. (The event is commemorated in the University of Pittsburgh’s Student Union building, previously the Schenley Hotel, on a bronze plaque which hangs to this day in the first-floor lobby.) Pi Sigma won the International Fraternity’s “Condon Cup.” Roland A. McCrady ’11 received the “Distinguished FIJI Award” from the International Fraternity. 1968 Pi Sigma Chapter took 1st place in IFC baseball and 2nd in IFC bowling. Phi Gamma Delta Executive Director William Zerman visited PITT to address a dinner held by the Greek system for

Chancellor Wesley Posvar. Pi Sigma was the first fraternity 1968 ~ The Pi Sigma Chapter house on chapter house where Chancellor Posvar attended a social 4725 Wallingford Street. function. Pittsburgh graduate brothers created the “FIJI Land Corporation” and purchased a 300-acre tract of land in Ligonier, Pennsylvania and called it “FIJI Land.” The Omicron chapter held their “first annual” golf event at Longvue Country Club. 1969 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC tennis and IFC volleyball. 1970 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC basketball, IFC swimming, IFC wrestling, IFC wrestling league B, and 2nd in IFC swimming and IFC volleyball. 1971 Roy W. Walters, Sr. ’17 received the “Distinguished FIJI Award” from the International Fraternity. Pi Sigma took first place in IFC 1971 ~ Roy W. Walters, Sr. ’17. football, basketball, and wrestling - and won the All-points trophy. The “50th Anniversary” bronze plaque (hanging in the Student Union building) was presented to the University of Pittsburgh by Archon Secretary Ellis E. Busse at the Pi Sigma Frank Norris Pig Dinner. 1972 John D. Sheppard ’44 became Archon Treasurer for the International Fraternity. Pi Sigma won first place in IFC football, IFC softball, and IFC wrestling, and took 3rd in IFC basketball, IFC softball, and IFC track. Pi Sigma Chapter graduates created the formal “Big Brother Program” to help undergraduates pursue their chosen field of work, offering guidance and advice. 1971 ~ The bronze plaque commemorating Pi Sigma’s 50 th Anniversary at PITT. 1973 Pi Sigma Chapter took 1st in IFC football, IFC track, IFC swimming, 3rd in IFC football, won the Greek Week Over-all trophy, took first place in talent night, 2nd in the chariot race, 3rd in Greek Sing, and 4th in pinochle. 1974 Pi Sigma Chapter enjoyed a 33-game winning-streak spanning four years and won the IFC football championship. They took 1st place in Greek Week banner and 3rd in talent night. 1975 Michael T. Furick ’75 was President of PITT’s Student Government. Fifteen graduates and undergraduates attended 1974 ~ Brothers on the front porch of the 126th Ekklesia in Altanta, the largest showing of any chapter. 4725 Wallingford Street. Gary W. Hirsch ‘73 became Treasurer Treasurer and Frank R. Rodzwicz ‘73 became President of the Pi Sigma Association. Gary W. Hirsch ‘73 became President of the Omicron Graduate Chapter. The Omicron Chapter was awarded the International Fraternity’s “Brightman Award” for being an “outstanding graduate chapter” with more than 75 members. 1976 John D. Sheppard ’44 became Archon President for the International Fraternity. The Pi Sigma chapter won at IFC wrestling, and in Greek Week took 1st in the chariot race and talent night, and 3rd in Greek Sing. 1977 Tim P. Reitmeyer ’74 became President and Henry H. Wallace 1976 ~ John D. Sheppard ’44, ‘62 became Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Archon President. Chapter took 2nd place in IFC softball, 2nd place in Greek Week talent night, and 100% in the blood drive. 1978 Roland A. McCrady ’11 passed Ad Astra on October 30th. Paul T. Leslie ‘76 became Vice President and Scott M. Walters ‘77 became Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma took 2nd place in IFC basketball. 1979 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC football, IFC soccer, and IFC volleyball, and 2nd in IFC basketball. In Greek Week, they 1979 ~ Pi Sigma Chapter won the took 2nd in talent night and gave 100% in the blood drive. IFC Football Championship. 1980 John D. Sheppard ’44 became Trustee for the International Fraternity. Terry K. Clawson ‘76 became Vice President of the Pi Sigma Association. Bill Wallander ’81 was President of ODK, Business Manager of the PITT News, and Greek Week Chairman. Steve Economou ‘81 was IFC Treasurer. Mark Uminski ’80 was awarded “Electrical Engineer of the Year.” Pi Sigma Chapter placed first in IFC football, soccer, and volleyball, and won the IFC All-Sports championship and the Greek Week 1981 ~ Brothers in the entry room of Over-all Award, including first place in Greek Sing. 4725 Wallingford Street. 1981 Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd place in IFC All-Sports, and took 1st place in IFC track. In Greek Week, they took first place in Greek Sing and the banner contest, 3rd in dance marathon, and gave 100% in the blood drive. 1982 James E. King ’78 became Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC football, IFC volleyball, and in Greek Week, took first place in the chariot race, Greek Sing, talent night, and won the Over-All award. The 1983 ~ Brothers practicing in front of 4725 Wallingford Street before their Greek Sing performance. chapter ran the “PITT vs Penn State” game football from the Penn State chapter to , raising $3,000 for the “Heart Fund.” 1983 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC football, and in Greek Week, took first place in Greek Sing and the chariot race, and won the Over-all Award. Randy Bardol ’83 was IFC President. Jerry Uffner ’83 was Greek Week Chairman. Ken Boben ’84 was Editor of the Freshman Record and appointed Business Manager of the PITT News. Bennett Wallander ’89 completely refinished the pool table, replacing the bumpers and bed cloth with royal purple felt. For the rail dots, brothers donated their pledge pins to adorn the oak rails. 1984 William S. Zerman, Executive Director of Phi Gamma Delta was keynote speaker at the Pi Sigma Pig Dinner. Pi Sigma chapter 1984 ~ Brothers in the entry room of 4725 Wallingford Street. settled a $2,300 debt owed to the International Fraternity. Mike Moraca ’84 was IFC External Vice President. Tony DeFiore ’86 was IFC Recording Secretary. Neil Syken ’84 was Greek Week Business Manager. Bob Dunyak ’85 was Greek Week Historian. The fourth “PITT-Penn State Football Run for Charity” was held raising $2,000. Pi Sigma won the IFC Football Championship. The chapter took first place in Greek Sing for a fifth year in a row, and hosted the largest “Greek Week Mixer” in PITT’s history after the performance. The chapter received an honorable mention for 1986 ~ Brothers in the entry room of 4725 Wallingford Street. the International Fraternity’s “Brightman Award” at the 1984 New Orleans Ekklesia. 1985 Terry K. Clawson ‘76 became President, Michael J. Demoratz ’83, Vice President and Paul T. Leslie ‘76 Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd place in IFC pool and 1st place in the Greek Gorge. Logan Brubaker ’85 was Greek Week Business Manager. Bennett Wallander ’89 was Greek Week Public Relations Chairman. 1986 Eli Rebich ’72 became President of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi 1988 ~ The trophy room in 4725 Wallingford Street Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC basketball, 2nd in IFC pool and IFC swimming, and in Greek Week, took first in the chariot race, fun & games, and 3rd in the blood drive, dance marathon, and Over-All award. Bob Kramer won the Wrestling All-Campus award for his weight class. Andy Morgan ’87, Rick Platt ’87, and David Wissinger ’89 won their weight classes in IFC wrestling. Chris Dancu ’86 was Greek Week Chairman and Dan Keelan ’86 was Greek Week Business Manager. After Karl Kuhn ‘86’s

graduation, David Wissinger ’89 began giving the “Exiles Toast” 1991 ~ Roy W. Walter Sr. ’17 does the honors at the Pig Dinner. Brother Wissinger has given it ever since. at the Pi Sigma Pig Dinner. 1987 Mark A. Uminski ’80 became President and Michael A. Moraca ‘84 became Treasurer of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC basketball, and was recognized for their “Alumni Planning” by the IFC. In Greek Week, they took first place in spirit, 2nd in dance marathon and Over-All Award, 3rd in charity, Greek Sing, and Greek God. Ken Kumer ’87 was Greek Week Over-all Chairman. 1988 Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC football and 3rd place in Academics from the Office of Student Affairs. In Greek Week, they took first place in the chariot race, 2nd place Over-All and 1993 ~ Brothers on the front porch of 4725 Wallingford Street. Greek God, and 3rd place in the dance marathon. 1989 J. Scot Jennings ‘87 President, Blair W. Uminski ‘83 Vice President, and David A. Fisher ’86 Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in the Greek Week chariot race, 3rd in spirit, 4th in Greek Sing, and 5th in the blood drive. 1990 Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in IFC swimming, and in Greek Week, took 2nd in Fun&Games, 3rd in the scavenger hunt, 4th in charity, and 5th in the blood drive. 1991 David A. Fisher ‘86 became Treasurer, J. Paul Keelan, Sr. ‘85 Secretary, and Bennett Wallander ‘89 Vice President of the Pi 1999 ~ Ad Astra 4725 Wallingford Street.

Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took first place in IFC football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and swimming. In Greek Week, they took first place in chariot race, 2nd in blood drive, Greek Sing, Greek God, 3rd in dance marathon, Greek Olympiad, and scavenger hunt, 4th in charity, and 5th in the 5K run. Brent Saunders ‘92 was Student Government Board President and IFC Internal Vice President. Kurt Stark ‘91 was IFC Treasurer and President of Order of Omega. Ken Boben ’84 2001 ~ The Omicron Graduate Chapter enjoyed was featured on the cover of PHI GAMMA DELTA magazine for their “Holiday Luncheon” at the Penn Brewery. his service in Iraq during “Desert Storm.” 1992 Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd place Over-All in Greek Week, as well as first in spirit, 2nd in the 5K run, blood drive, 3rd in Funday-on- Sunday and phone-a-thon, 4th in dance marathon, and 5th in Greek Sing. Roy W. Walters, Sr. ’17 passes Ad Astra on August 8th. John Sheppard, Jr. ’75 organized the “John D. Sheppard International Fraternity Scholarship Fund” to recognize his father’s accomplishments and contributions to Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. 1993 David W. Forti ‘92 became Treasurer and Christopher Zampogna ‘95 became Secretary of the Pi Sigma Association. Pi Sigma Chapter took 2nd in IFC Academics, and in Greek Week, took 2002 ~ The Omicron Graduate Chapter first in dance marathon and spirit, 2nd in charity, the chariot race, celebrated Founders Day at the University Club.

informal opening ceremonies, and 3rd in the 5K run and volunteering, and 4th in the blood drive. 1995 John D. Sheppard ’44 won the International Fraternity’s “Coulter Cup” for his contributions to Pi Sigma Chapter. The chapter won the IFC Social Service award. In Greek Week, they took first place in dance marathon, 2nd in charity and Fun&Games, 3rd in the 5K run, blood drive, and Over-All award. Doug Seigal ’95 was IFC President. Pi Sigma Chapter was put on social

probation from the University of Pittsburgh. 2002 ~ Gary W. Hirsch ’73, past Pi Sigma Association 1996 Robert M. Johnston ‘90 became Secretary of the Pi Sigma Treasurer and Omicron Graduate Chapter President. Association. David Wissinger ’89 was Purple Legionaire. Chris Nestor ’96 was awarded the IFC’s “Outstanding Chapter President” award. Pi Sigma Chapter took 4th in the 5K run and blood drive, and 5th in charity. 1998 Christopher DeLuca ‘89 became President of the Pi Sigma Association. Phi Gamma Delta’s “150th Anniversary” Ekklesia was held at the William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh. Due to the dereliction of the undergraduates, the Pi Sigma chapter had its 2007 ~ John Armour ’84, David Fisher ’86, Neil Syken charter revoked by the International Fraternity and was removed ’84, and Jim Reed ’82 at PITT Homecoming. from University of Pittsburgh Greek system. 1999 The chapter house on 4725 Wallingford Street was sold for $150,000. 2000 Bennett Wallander ’89 was appointed acting-President of the Omicron Chapter by Gary W. Hirsch ’73 during an “informal FIJI golf outing” held at Lindenwood Golf Course, and subsequently acquired the Omicron Chapter flag and the responsibility to foster and promote the future of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity in 2012 ~ Mark Uminski ’80 and John Armour ’84 presented on the future of Pi Sigma. Pittsburgh. Monthly Omicron Graduate Chapter meetings were held at the Penn Brewery. 2001 The Omicron Chapter had the first (post-Pi Sigma Chapter) “Holiday Luncheon” held at the Penn Brewery in Pittsburgh. 2002 The Omicron Graduate Chapter had its last official “Founders Day” dinner at the University Club. Bennett Wallander ’89 organized the first (post-Pi Sigma chapter) “FIJI OPEN” Golf 2013 ~ Frank Norris Pig Dinner. event held at Fort Cherry Golf Course. The Omicron Graduate Chapter had its second “Holiday Luncheon” at the Penn Brewery in Pittsburgh. 2004 John D. Sheppard ’44 passed Ad Astra on August 4th. 2007 Pi Sigma graduates organized a very well-attended Homecoming Reunion. John Armour ’84 had Purple “FIJI” wind shirts produced. 2011 Ron Banerjee ’87 was appointed Section Chief of Section VI, and

was appointed to the Section Chief Executive Committee of Phi 2014 ~ Mark Rusiski ’99 and Ron Banerjee ’87, Gamma Delta Fraternity, and received an honorable mention for Section Chiefs, at the 166th Ekklesia. the Haynes Award. 2012 Gary W. Hirsch ’73 passed Ad Astra on October 8th. J. Paul Keelan ’85 hosted and informal FIJI golf outing at Butler Country Club. For the Homecoming reunion, Ken Boben ’84 organized a FIJI hat sale for the brothers. At the Pig Dinner, John Armour ‘84 gave a presentation on the future of the Pi Sigma Chapter at the University of Pittsburgh. Ron Banerjee ’87 received an honorable

mention for the Haynes Award. 2014 ~ The Omicron Graduate Chapter 2013 Mark Rusiski ’99 was appointed Section Chief of Section V. The was revived and the recolonization effort began. Pittsburgh Pig Dinner was very well attended. The future of Pi Sigma Chapter was a major topic of conversation. A “Memorial Ritual” was held for Gary W. Hirsh ‘73 in a “chapter room” set up for that year’s Pig Dinner. The chapter house possessions were moved from the flooded storage facility to Ken Boben ‘84’s house. Bennett Wallander ’89 organized an informal FIJI Holiday

luncheon held at the Haufbrau Haus brewery, attended by a 2014 ~ Bill Wallander ’81, Jim Wallander ’82, dozen brothers. Ron Banerjee ’87 received an honorable and Ben Wallander ’89, Pi Sigma Chapter mention for the Haynes Award. Treasurer, President, and President respectively. 2014 The Omicron Graduate Chapter was revived. The recolonization of the Pi Sigma Chapter at PITT is pursued by Mark Uminski ’80, John Armour ’84, Ken Boben ’84, Ron Banerjee ’87, Mark Rusiski ’99, and a group of active graduates. Bill Wallander ’81 offers to match dollar-for-dollar any donations made for the recolonization effort, which raised over $90,000 in total. Bennett Wallander ’89 organized the return of the “FIJI OPEN” golf event played at Suncrest Golf Course. The Omicron Chapter flag was presented to Omicron Chapter President Mark Uminski ‘80 during the 2015 ~ PITT Homecoming.

Homecoming reunion. Ron Banerjee ’87 received Runner-up for the Haynes Award. 2015 The Pig Dinner, FIJI OPEN, and Homecoming reunion were well attended by Pi Sigma Graduates. Ron Banerjee ’87 received Runner-up for the Haynes Award 2016 The Pig Dinner, FIJI OPEN, and Homecoming reunion were well attended by Pi Sigma Graduates. The Omicron Graduate 2016 ~ FIJI OPEN golf event. Chapter received an honorable mention for the International Fraternity’s “Brightman Award” for chapters under 75 members. Bennett Wallander ’89 compiled the history books, PHI GAMMA DELTA tomos PITTSBURGH and PHI GAMMA DELTA PITTSBURGH EKKLESIA. Ron Banerjee ’87 received Runner- up for the Haynes Award. 2017 The Pi Sigma Chapter recolonization began with the help of the International Fraternity. Matt Ferrell (Connecticut 2013), Trevor Curtis (Oregon 2014), and Adam Thomas (IUPUI 2016) organized and represented the International Fraternity effort on

the University of Pittsburgh campus, and rushed 25 colonist 2017 ~ Scot Jennings ’86, past Treasurer, and Chris “founding fathers” for the revival Pi Sigma Chapter. Deluca ’89, President, of the Pi Sigma Association. “Not For College Days Alone!” dinner held for the Pi Sigma Chapter recolonization.