Our events continue to get more and more successful and last weekend’s gala was no exception. We maxed out our space a few days prior to the event and were unable to take new registrations. We apologize to anyone who couldn’t register in time. For all the photos of the weekend, check the Spring Gala Photo Gallery.
Kevin O’Connell with Brother Steve Lam
For those of you who arrived early for the Chapter’s initiation ceremony, you were treated to a very emotional and inspiring charge by the President of Delta Upsilon International, Bernard Franklin. Bernard spoke about the advantages Delta Upsilon has presented to him throughout his life and the challenges he faced as an African American at Kansas State in the early 70’s. When he rushed, the brothers at DU never judged him on anything, but his character.
We are honored to have an open initiation; the only one at San Diego State that invites SDSU faculty and staff as well as members of other fraternities to attend. Brother Franklin’s charge was so powerful that SDSU has invited him back to speak before other students and faculty.
At the Gala we mingled much as we always do and enjoyed reuniting with old friends and pledge bros. Former Aztec Quarterback and New England Patriot, Kevin O’Connell made the first presentation, giving us the inside scoop on the future of Aztec football as well as other sports. Kevin is truly a gifted speaker and appreciated the Ducks both now and when he was an undergraduate. Thanks to Dan Selstad and Joe Duffel for asking Kevin to speak.
Brother John Duncan heads the Delta Upsilon Scholarship Program at the international level and remarked how successful the program is in San Diego, something that International hasn’t seen from us before. In his words, “We are setting a great example for other alumni organizations.” Oh, how things change!
Graduating Senior and Chapter President of the Year, Tyler Deary gave us a slide presentation and first-hand account of his experience with Delta Upsilon’s selective Global Service Initiative. A hand-picked group of undergraduates travel to Jamaica and perform community service projects such as building schools, digging wells and helping those in need in any way they can. The project was life-changing for him and the other participants.
DU President Doctor Bernard Franklin Addresses the San Diego Ducks
Brother Bernard Franklin gave the keynote speech, addressing the relevance of fraternities in today’s college environment. Delta Upsilon is truly a cutting edge organization, setting examples that other fraternities try to duplicate. With the Global Service Initiative, Leadership Institute, regional conferences, Emerging Leader Experience (DUEL) and Chapter Excellence Program (CEP), Delta Upsilon’s leadership training is unmatched among international fraternities. This is how DU stays relevant in today’s universities.
The evening ended with raffle prizes, photos and a meet up for cocktails in Mission Valley. Many of those present remarked how they appreciate these type of professional events. For those of you who could not attend, we will be planning more in the future. If you have any ideas, please let us know.
Next up, the 4th Annual Tim McGee Wiffle Classic. The tournament will be held on August 24th and will be preceded by the Annual Meeting of the Membership the night before. See you there!
