Social
Aside from classes, problem sets, research papers, UROPs, and IM sports, there is one dimension of college life that Theta Xi has truly mastered. I am speaking, of course, of the well-organized social calendar that makes being a part of Theta Xi—or any fraternity—a great part of an undergraduate education.
Last spring, Social Chairs Robert Warden, Δ1077, and Stephen Whittaker, Δ1071, worked diligently to plan mixers and events to satiate the demand for major social events. Unfortunately, no large parties could be held due to the absence of a housing license. Instead, Warden put his efforts towards organizing what was arguably one of the best formals in recent house history. Our May Formal entailed reserving the entire Boston Aquarium for Theta Xi and its friends. Dinner was served along side countless fish and dozens of penguins, and everyone in attendance had an enjoyable evening.
This semester, current social chairs Sean Rogers, Δ1079, and Ross Goodwin, Δ1078, have been trying to match the incredible work of their predecessors. In addition to weekly coffee nights, they have put our now-licensed status to use by organizing the annual CITGO party. Named after the infamous “Delta in the sky” that looms over the house, the CITGO party continues to be a favorite and is the first major social event after rush.
Mid-September featured the first mixer of the semester when Alpha Chi Omega sorority joined the house for an evening barbecue. Rogers and Goodwin are planning several additional mixers for the semester. Following the mixer’s success, Theta Xi played host to its first formal of the semester, the Rush Hostess Appreciation Dinner. Brothers and alumni joined to thank the many rush hostesses that made rush an enjoyable time. In addition, Membership Educator John Styczynski, Δ1062, had the honor of pairing Associate Members with their big brothers, mentors that assist the Associate Members in their incorporation into the house. Soon thereafter, the AMs jumped at their opportunity to river their Rush Chair Quinn Vollmert, Δ1066. The event continued long into the night, as those in attendance relaxed in the warm social atmosphere of the house.
November 4, Theta Xi will be dressed in black for its always-entertaining Blacklight party. This annual tradition dates back to the 1960’s (possibly even earlier) and features wall-to-wall decoration as provided by the incredible Associate Member class. This year’s event also includes plans for an “alumni” wall for past brothers to return to the house and contribute by painting a few of their own blacklight panels.
Other upcoming events include the Thanksgiving formal on November 18. Also, alumni are invited to attend an annual classic, the Non-Denominational Winter Holiday Bush party on December 9. Theta Xi looks forward to continuing its great tradition as one of the most social houses on campus.