A Life Changing Visit - April 2021 Newsletter
A Life Changing Visit
Steve Wakefield ’77
The experience of four years at Wabash changed my life but I almost quit after my first semester. When I enrolled I was an introvert and had decided to live in Wolcott Hall. Effectively I had isolated myself in a socially limiting environment. Over Christmas break that year I decided to transfer to another “yet to be decided” college hoping for a better experience.
I returned in January, went to the Registrar’s office and informed them of my plans to withdraw. Next thing I knew I was sitting in Dean Moore’s office. After he looked me over for several seconds, he asked what my plans were for continuing my education. I didn’t have any but I mentioned several of the schools I had originally considered along with Wabash. He had some “interesting” observations about the other institutions and stated that I was doing well academically at Wabash. He proposed that I take two weeks, go home, reflect on our conversation, and let him know what I decided. He pointed out that if I decided to stay and at least finish my freshman year it would be in my best interest.
Who could tell the persuasive Dean Moore no, so in two weeks I was back at Wabash catching up. A short time later, Delts Allen Murphy and Steve Cox showed up at my dorm room with an invitation to check out the House. They explained that Dean Moore believed the Delt House would be good for me. I pledged that semester.
That invitation was the reason I stayed at Wabash. Although I missed all the Brotherhood bonding experiences of a first semester pledge, the camaraderie in the house was compelling. The self governing living experience coupled with the social interaction provided the catalyst for my becoming less introverted and more at home at Wabash. Without that one invitation, I would have missed learning critical thinking from Dr. Doemel and a Wabash education. I’m indebted to Allen Murphy, Steve Cox and all the Brothers of the Delt House.
Thank you to Steve Wakefield for sharing this wonderful memory of his relationship with the Delt House at Wabash
A few reminders for all who have interest:
Our web sites are 603WWAlumni.com and 603WWInc.net [ Activities ]
Facebook - 603Delts
Instagram - 603WW1
Program Notes:
Please save the weekend of June 4-June 6 for the 2021 Delt Reunion Celebration at Camp Rotary ,Crawfordville-Dan Walters Chairman.
Please save the weekend of November 11-14 for the BiAnnual 603 WW “Squatfest” held on Monon Bell Weekend. Jim Evans and Charles Hutchins -Chairmen.
Details for all events -including ability to register and purchase tickets - available at 603WWInc.net or by email at 603WW1@gmail.com.
Lastly, you will remember that 603 WW ,Inc is a 501[c]3 non profit organization.Dues are set at $50.00 per year with additional amounts up to $100.00 gratefully accepted.Please get your 2021 Annual dues sent in as soon as possible.
Wishing good health and good spirits to you all.I hope to see you in June.
RSword ‘76