Why Renovate Beta Theta Pi?

The Case for Renovating Beta Theta Pi:

1. Investing in our students

Members of Beta Theta Pi strive to be exemplary citizens with responsibilities to both Knox College as well as their greater community. Here are just some of the accomplishments for the chapter in the ‘16-‘17 academic year:

• Members achieved the second highest GPA of all 6 fraternities
• Over 1/3 of members held leadership positions in other organizations 
• The IFC President for the 16-17 year was a Beta
• 5 members of the fraternity made Dean's List 
• Three seniors in the house were accepted to medical, engineering, and Marine officer graduate and training programs 
• 237 service hours completed in the course of the academic year
• Philanthropy events hosted like Halloweenies, Polar Plunge, and the UNICEF Ted Talks

2. Continuing a Tradition

Founded in 1855, the Xi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi was the first fraternity on the Knox campus-in fact, it was the first fraternity in the State of Illinois.

The present four-story brick home of the Xi Chapter was built in 1920 next to the looming presence of Alumni Hall. Eight years later, the elegant Seymour Library was built just south of the house. The Beta House has been a central part of the Knox campus and of Greek life and remains so today, even as it approaches its centennial.

3. Preserving Our History:

• Many of the planned renovations will seek to showcase the artifacts and memorabilia that speaks to Beta tradition. Some of those restorations entail:
• Returning the east portico to its original configuration
• Enhancements to Chapter Room, including tiered seating, new ritual stations, and an emergency exit 
• Preservation of historic murals in basement Event Room 
• Renovating the lounge with French doors to the deck and a restored fireplace surround and new gas insert 
• Enhancing the chapter library by adding new casework, shelving, and storage to showcase Beta history, awards, and memorabilia

For more information on making a gift for Beta Theta Pi, contact the Office of Advancement at 888-566-9265 or e-mail gifts@knox.edu. Or make your gift now.