Robert Areklett ’91: In His Own Words
We invite you to read this unique (and highly entertaining) Delta Chi biography from Brother Robert Areklett ’91. (Jeff, Jeff and Mike, we are warning you now. Nothing is sacred in this tell-all exposé.) In all seriousness, we invite all of our brothers of the ’90s and other decades to share in Robert’s story which ends on an important Delta Chi note: “There isn’t a single day in my life that goes by where some learning experience I had while living in the house does not apply.” Click below to read more.
Adam Koch ’02: DX + Bahamas = A Wife
It’s just one of those things. You take a trip to the Bahamas with your fraternity brothers. And, just when you least expect it, you meet a girl who … Well, let’s take a few steps back to Adam Koch’s move from New York to Michigan and his life-changing decision to attend Michigan and pledge Delta Chi. That’s where the story really began. Click below to read more.
Lane Kendig ’62: The Unique Community That Was and Is Delta Chi
Community planning … it’s in his blood. Lane Kendig was rethinking design, space and functionality as far back as his days in the Delta Chi house as an architecture student at Michigan. Today, after more than 40 years as an accomplished community planner, he remains an integral part of the firm he founded as their strategic advisor. He has written seven books on planning and is working on another. As he recalls his days at Delta Chi, he sees it as a place that was not only his home but was where some of the best memories were made.
John Levinson ’73: 474 UM Football Games and Counting
If someone is keeping track of the number of home (and away) Michigan football games attended by any one person, especially an alum, they need to have the name of John Levinson ’73 on the list. An avid (that’s an understatement) Michigan sports fan, John has been a basketball and football season ticket holder since 1969. He has not missed a Michigan home football game since 1964 and has not missed a football game — home or away — since January 1, 1976 (currently 474 games and counting for football). Now that’s a fan! Fortunately, he is also a loyal fan of Delta Chi.
Jim Fuger ’82: So, Is That Motorcycle Still in the Backyard?
After 32 years with Merrill Lynch and Bank of America, Jim Fuger ’82 is currently the director of the company’s U.S. wealth management business responsible for financial advisory recognition and compensation programs. Yet, after all these years, he just has one question: Where is that motorcycle that the brothers buried in the backyard?
Don Sweeney ’94: It’s Not About the Parties
Delta Chi seemed to be going through an evolution while Don was there in the early ‘90s. He found the group to be a dynamic, diverse and fun group of guys who he will forever remember fondly. The fraternity really came together and grew a lot while he was there. “My time in the fraternity still means the world to me,” he said.
Dave Finkbiner ’13: Hiking His Own Hike
Before Dave became a brother in Delta Chi, his family was not well informed about fraternities, sororities and Greek Life outside of the picture presented in movies and on TV (such as in the cinema classic “Animal House”). “It was a fun process to learn about real Greek life and the many different areas and opportunities that are presented through the system,” he said. After learning more, his younger brother actually joined Greek life at Michigan State. So not only did he benefit from his positive experience, but his entire family did as well.
Donald W. Shaffer ’53: Remembering Delta Chi’s 1950s Revival
The 1950s: It was a decade of poodle skirts, sock hops, drive-in movies, the Slinky, and Mr. Potato Head. At the Delta Chi house, however, a revolution was underway. Following a trip to the Delta Chi national convention, a group of brothers, including Don Shaffer ’53, were inspired to revitalize the fraternity and breathe new life into it. Younger generations have this group to thank for ensuring a healthy foundation for DX. Click below to read more about Brother Shaffer.
Howard Wiarda ’61: From Dork to Foreign Policy Expert
When recalling his Delta Chi days, Howard is reminded of fun times, great friends, and a life-changing experience. His involvement taught him social graces, such as how to go from being recognized as the resident dork to talking to women, getting along with others, and succeeding in the professional world. Click below to read about Howard’s journey from U of M to the D.C. Beltway.
Kendall Russell ’77: From Turntables to Aerospace to Home Conveniences
Kendall remembers his Delta Chi days from a different perspective than most. Not only did he live in the house, but he was the house manager for most of his time at Delta Chi. His technical skills quickly helped him connect with brothers to create one of the best stereo and recording systems in house history. From there, Kendall went on to excel in the aerospace industry and then to own his own company focused on technology to enhance everyday living. Click below to read more.
