Wilson Heller

[FratAmerica]

Heller was a "giant", no doubt. He was a personality that may never be equaled in Pi Kappa Alpha history.

Gentlemen, if you don't already know, you should - there are four people to whom Pi Kappa Alpha owes its success in the modern era ("modern" defined as post-Junior Founder). Those names are Heller, Halloran, Barnes and Handler. Orians has done a wonderful job, but he represents the continuation of the work of these men.

Heller was a genius, but like many he was also very falliable. Many of his writings contained racial and sexual orientation biases, and he was unable to build the coalitions and partnerships that could have truly changed the fraternity world.

Heller was rightfully critical of Smythe. At a minimum, Smythe kept sloppy financial records, was loose with cash and received favors from vendors (e.g. jewelry merchants). No matter his accomplishments, his legacy should rightfully be forever tarnished. This is a lesson that should never be forgotten. Don't fall into the trap of "cult of personality".

PiKA should be doing more to study the impact and legacy of Heller.

[NutBrnHair]

He liked Chi Omega -- I liked him.

[BobbyTheDon]

Originally Posted by FratAmerica

Those names are Heller, Halloran, Barnes and Handler. Orians has done a wonderful job, but he represents the continuation of the work of these men.

I have had the pleasure of meeting both Handler and Barnes.

I met Handler at a regional convention in Reno. Though I barely spoke with him, you can tell the man was a great risk taker and tremendous motivator.

I have spoken with Barnes via email mulitple times, and once in person. If anyone ever has the great pleasure of meeting him, please do yourself a favor and pick his brain. The man has uncanny knowledge about fraternity life, rush, and random Pike history!