While the Alpha Tau experience is certainly more than the physical structure of the chapter house, our home undoubtedly plays a significant role in the development of our brothers and serves as a proud symbol of our shared values and goals.
Built in 1926, with the addition constructed in 1963, 1515 R Street has been a part of Alpha Tau’s legacy for 85 years and is showing its age. It has become clear that we must make a major investment in our chapter house if we are to remain competitive, provide a quality living environment, and continue to cultivate the intellect of our brothers.
Physical & safety needs
We must ensure that we are offering a structurally sound and safe facility for our collegians. With heavier demands on internal systems, such as the electrical and technology infrastructure and a lack of appropriate storage space, our home does not adequately accommodate the needs of our undergraduate members any longer:
- The University has mandated that all Greek chapters complete installation of modernized fire-safety equipment in their facilities for the safety of the members.
- Our project will include installation of a fire-safety sprinkler system, as well as a modernized electrical system with new wiring and additional outlets for safety reasons and to provide adequate power for computers, printers, and other electrical appliances.
- This renovation will address our need for energy-efficient windows, proper space allocation and usage, and modernized bathrooms to meet the needs of our members and cut down on facility maintenance expenses.
Academic & technology needs
The Beta Theta Pi house has always been an environment that fosters academic excellence; however, study space and academic needs have changed:
- To remain academically competitive, we must address the needs of today’s students by providing quiet, well-lit, and comfortable study space with wireless computer access throughout the facility.
- Multiple areas designated for study, adequate furnishings, and state-of-the-art technology will help our members maintain a competitive edge. To have the option of studying day or night, alone or with guests, at the chapter house is a key to keeping our members scholastically competitive at UNL.
Competition & value
Today’s students and their parents expect more for their housing dollars. Amenities offered by the residence halls and in off-campus apartments, as well as new and renovated fraternity houses, require us to reevaluate what we are offering our members.
- Other off-campus housing options frequently offer covered parking, swimming pools, and fitness rooms. While we have no intention of providing all of the amenities offered elsewhere, we must offer a safe, attractive facility in order to be competitive.
- Today’s students expect their own space and plenty of room for study. Our plan will include suite-style rooms with study space separate from the living/sleeping areas.
- Delta Tau Delta, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, Pi Kappa Phi, Alpha Gamma Rho, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Farmhouse, and Delta Upsilon have recently renovated, rebuilt, or are assessing a future renovation to their facilities. We cannot lag behind our competition.