[LXAAlum]

Originally posted by GammaZeta
Hey everyone,

We figure it's been almost 3 years since we closed, and considering that there are no more GZ's attending Umass anymore, that HQ might be willing to take a look at restarting Gamma Zeta.

Just because IHQ might have given you a timeline when the chapter was first closed does NOT mean they will abide by it.

I wanted to get some advice from you guys on a few things since you know HQ better than me and you have been through this before.

1. What do we need to do as an alumni group to show HQ we're serious about supporting and starting the chapter?
Officially organizing would help.

2. What are ways in which we can organize and communicate with each other as alumnis?
Try putting together a Yahoo or similar bulletin board that is maintained by one member, but all can access and post comments. Also, schedule some kind of get-togethers- informal or formal, just to maintain connections and keep the bond strong.


3. How much money do you think the alumnis would need to raise to actually start the recolonization process (for fliers, events, mailings, etc.)
UNC's recolonization cost $0 from alumni, so that may or may not be an issue for you to consider, however, if you can get some donations, specifically earmarked for recolonization, it wouldn't hurt!


4. What will HQ expect from us?
First, you'll need an AAB ready for the colony, and a High Pi - make sure to recruit non-Gamma Zeta alumni as well.


5. What are the steps in starting to recolonize?
If experience is any guide with the two chapters I have been trying to recolonize, the most important step is patience, closely followed by realistic expectations.

The first determination by IHQ to recolonize will be to analyze the campus itself, and see if the campus is wanting to expand the greek system. LXA does not normally place a new or restarted colony unless either specifically invited by the institution, or, getting approval from the institution.


6. What is the current status at HQ for recolonizing lost chapters and how do you feel about their supporting another chapter at Umass?
Again, what does HQ think about the Umass campus presently? If they feel the climate is good for a new organization, they may start taking steps to communicate with the campus, or, perhaps someone in the alumni group that has a well known reputation on campus can take the first steps.


7. Who do I contact at HQ to get the ball rolling?
Does LXA still have a "Director of Expansion"? If so, start there.

8. Any other general information or suggestions would be appreciated.

As I stated before - be patient. If it is going to be done, then it needs to be done right, with both UMass and HQ's blessings.

UNC's chapter was closed in 1989, and we alumni were told we would be recolonizing in four years - 1993 (and I have the letter to prove it). However, due to campus and other HQ factors, the colony was officially not restarted until specifically requested by UNC in 2000. So it may take a LOT more time than you realize, just keep bearing the torch. There were two or three times between 1995-2000 that rumors about LXA's return to UNC (Northern Colorado, btw) were circulating, but, unless you hear specifically from someone at HQ, don't put faith in them, because they were just rumors, and finding out they weren't true was frustrating.

Another closed chapter here in Colorado was supposed to restart this year as well, but due to major risk management problems at several campuses here, including two deaths at greek houses last year, things are on hold, though the campus and HQ have been in contact, and agree conditions look "promising" for LXA's return - but you'll notice there is no timeframe attached. The chapter alumni and other interested alumni have to wait, and when conditions permit, things will move forward.

Best advice - never give up, and try not to get discouraged. Many things may happen beyond your control that affect the potential restart.

Stick together as alumni, perhaps be willing to assist another existing chapter in the present that is closeby, which will show HQ and UMass the dedication that will be needed. Alumni involvement and oversight with a colony is too important to be overlooked, and working with another chapter in the meantime can only hone the alumni's skills.

9. What resources does HQ provide for something like this?

I've stated before that we have alot of alumni in our area that want to see this back. However, as time passes by, more and more alumni are becoming less interested. I personally think it is a matter of time before all is lost.

So, what are your ideas on restarting our very first chapter and getting them back into our very first house?