130 East High … Our Legacy
At our chartering in 1957, nine Phi Gamma Delta brothers from across the state gave Mu Upsilon an extraordinary gift – a new house. Even though they were not members of Mu Upsilon, these “honorary founders” were so motivated by the spirit of brotherhood that they committed their time and substantial personal financial resources to build a legacy for our young chapter – a chapter that was not even their own.
The names of these nine “honorary founders” of Mu Upsilon are John A. Thiele (Denison ’14), Dwight J. Thomson (Yale ’38), John S. Davis (Ohio Wesleyan ’38), Harman C. Darrow (Denison ’36), William G. Payne (Denison ’26, M. I. T. ’27), Carl D. Werner (Wittenberg ’21, Chicago ’21), Howard H. Staff (Colorado College ’25), Robert A. Howell (Purdue ’12), and Philip C. Ebeling (Ohio Wesleyan ‘28.) And in tribute to his organizational work, Glenn Barr (Allegheny ’19) was included among the honoraries.
Thanks to their kindness, Mu Upsilon was built on a solid foundation. That’s the legacy that they left to us, and one that we must continue. Because it’s our legacy now.
The Challenge
Miami FIJI is among the leading student organizations on campus, and we attract great young men each year. But today, the challenge is clear: solidify the legacy of Phi Gamma Delta at Miami University. To remain a competitive option in the Greek system, we must continue to invest in our property and our member experiences, have the operating flexibility to weather future disruptions like COVID-19, and offer a chapter home that is safe and is an attractive housing option when evaluated against the expanded dorm offerings provided by the University and by off-campus housing options in the Oxford area.
Why 130 East High – Our Legacy?
Our chapter house is owned by the Mu Upsilon Association and managed by a team of volunteer graduate members whose mission is to provide a home and infrastructure that optimizes the fraternity experience of our undergraduate brothers. Today, the Association seeks to raise funds for the following priorities which, collectively, will ensure the continuity of 130 East High and the legacy of Mu Upsilon for future generations of young men:
- Financial Security – ensuring a financially independent, long-term future for Mu Upsilon
- Chapter House Maintenance Fund – ensuring the completion of routine maintenance and systems replacement
- Chapter House Amenities – ensuring that 130 East High is an attractive living option in today’s competitive marketplace
- Scholarships – ensuring that we support and encourage the academic achievements of our undergraduate brothers
All graduates, parents and friends who contribute $1000 or more to the effort to build this legacy will have their name included on a plaque in the newly renovated home.
Additionally, for individuals or families who are interested in recognizing their special relationship with Phi Gamma Delta, we offer the possibility of naming an area or room of the house in your name or that of a family member. Or a pledge class may choose to raise funds to name a room or area of the house, either in the name of the class or in memory or honor of one of your class members. At the time a gift is made, you will be invited to discuss the best way we can recognize your generosity, if you so desire. An up-to-date listing of naming options can be found here.
Q & A
How do I make a gift?
Gifts of $25,000 or more are being made to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation; other gifts are being made directly to the Mu Upsilon Association. See this page for additional details and giving options.
Are naming opportunities available?
Yes, there are naming opportunities available for certain gifts to the Campaign. These include the possibility of naming a room of the house in your name or in the name of another brother or family member.
Can a company’s matching gifts be included?
Gifts to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation may qualify for a company match, depending on your company’s matching gift guidelines. If your company matches gifts, just let us know and we’ll be glad to help. A company match will count towards naming rights, if desired. Unfortunately, gifts to the Mu Upsilon Association will likely not qualify for a company match.
Can I make a gift online?
Yes, you can. Read more here.
Who is providing governance and oversight to this effort? T
The graduates who have volunteered their time and talents to lead this effort are:
Mike Bevis, 1970 Brian Gravitt, 1990
Dave Bowen, 1979 Mike McGuirk, 1970
Erik Christensen, 1982 Alan Molina, 1980
John Fountain, 1985 Dan Tonseth, 1980
Ted Goble, 1968 Jeff Walker, 1981
You Are Needed
We invite you to join us in supporting this worthwhile endeavor. Our graduate brothers have dedicated their personal time, talent, and treasure to create a long-range plan that will ensure that Phi Gamma Delta at 130 East High remains a leading fraternity at Miami University.
Our chapter was built on a legacy first provided by others … today, you have a chance to participate in the next phase of our Chapter’s growth and success by joining other graduates as we build a legacy of our own. Please join us in ensuring that this tradition endures and that Mu Upsilon Chapter remains an active and steadfast supporter of academic pursuits, leadership enhancement, and Greek Life at Miami University for generations to come. Because it’s our legacy now.