The process for a chapter to become an accredited Residential Learning Community (RLC) can be a long and trying one. But the chapters that stay the course will eventually see their diligence pay off in a heightened member experience and a stronger connection to the campus community (and, in some cases, a Buchanan Cup at the Grand Chapter Conclave).

The men of the Missouri Theta Chapter at the University of Central Missouri have been working hard to create a chapter experience that incorporates these elements. The chapter recently moved a step closer to accreditation with the renovation of a new RLC space in the chapter home.

Creating this RLC space has been a testament to the strong collaboration between Missouri Theta’s chapter and AVC. The space has empowered brothers to collaborate and become stronger academically, as leaders, as brothers and in the community.

Missouri Theta’s charge to become RLC-accredited was not advanced by one or even two members, but instead by several key members who all pitched in their time and talents. “Once the opportunity of a possible RLC space came about, discussion immediately happened at our chapter meeting, and we approved it the following week,” said Chapter President Jacob Hetzel, ’19.

The chapter was eager to share this accomplishment with alumni, holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Missouri Theta’s 50th anniversary celebration in March. The weekend-long event featured several other great activities: an undergraduate vs. alumni intramural tournament that included softball and golf, a Friday evening social, and a banquet on Saturday evening to celebrate the chapter’s accomplishments alongside alumni, university administrators and undergraduate members. Among those who gathered to celebrate the chapter’s past and future accomplishments were past Grand Presidents John Hartman, Missouri ’61; Ed Hammond, Emporia State ’66; and Rick Bennet, Central Missouri ’74. Also in attendance were university President Chuck Ambrose and Alan Nordyke, director of residence and Greek life.

Although they have conquered a large hurdle on their quest to become an RLC and Buchanan Cup chapter, the men of Missouri Theta refuse to ease up. Now, they have set the goal of implementing SigEp’s substance-free facilities policy early by Dec. 31, 2018, which will be yet another landmark in this chapter’s storied history.