The Campaign for Nu Beta

November 14, 2024
Meet the Architect
By Mary Faith Gregory, Assistant Director of Properties – Facility Enhancement

For over three decades, Treanor Architects has been a leader in the design and renovation of Greek housing, bringing a unique blend of experience, expertise, and dedication to every project. Founded in 1991, the firm completed its first Greek house that same year, and since then, they have expanded their portfolio to include over 40 new Greek houses and more than 60 major renovation and addition projects for Greek organizations nationwide.

GET TO KNOW TREANOR

Treanor’s approach to Greek housing goes beyond architecture—they believe that a thoughtfully designed house not only strengthens the chapter’s identity, but also enhances recruitment by creating a compelling environment that draws in high-quality members. Their team is committed to ensuring that every house they design not only meets functional needs, but also carries a distinct character and charm that sets it apart.

Over the years, Treanor has worked with Greek chapters at top universities across the country, including the University of Alabama, the University of Georgia, the University of Florida, and Texas A&M University. Their team’s focus, expertise, and passion are evident in the design quality and lasting impact of their projects, and they welcome comparisons to illustrate the difference their experience brings to Greek housing.

When asked about this opportunity, Kyle Ray, Architectural Designer for Treanor, shared the following:

“Working with the Alpha Omicron Pi chapter at Ole Miss is an exciting opportunity. We have a goal of modernizing the existing house while maintaining the classic charm that reflects the chapter’s values. Knowing that the members will soon be able to enjoy updated amenities and a refreshed space is incredibly rewarding.”

As they embark on the Nu Beta house renovation, Treanor brings their dedication to creating a space that will support our chapter’s goals, attract new members, and stand out as a hallmark of excellence in Greek life on campus!

September 30, 2024
Homecoming 2024 Recap
By Crystal Grafton Combs, Campaign Co-Chair

Homecoming weekends hold the promise of making new memories with sisters and friends while also reminiscing over the memories of years gone by.  While some traditions have changed over time, others have remained the same.  Tailgating in the Grove and cheering on our players as they pass through the Walk of Champions still rank among my favorite game day activities.  I have recently added linking arms with fellow Rebels as we “Lock the Vaught” before kickoff and watching the Ole Miss marching band spell out Juice on the field during the halftime show to my personal list of favorites.

Another game day tradition is meeting sisters and friends at the AOII house before making our way to the Grove.  It’s always fun to see the painted banners cheering on our team and stopping in to say hello to current members of the chapter.  Today, our house at the top of the Rebel Drive looks a little different, with a construction fence lining the property.  It’s what is hanging on this fence that makes me smile – branded signs sharing the news that renovations are coming soon!

It was exciting to see passersby stopping to look at the renderings as they also made their way to game.  It was equally exciting to visit with sisters who are planning to support the new capital campaign.  Our women our doing amazing things on campus, with four women nominated this year to the 2024 Homecoming Court and plans currently underway for our members to participate in Casa Encore in just a couple of weeks (just to highlight two)!

This year’s homecoming gave me the opportunity watch the game with a Panhellenic sister and friend from my days living in Martin Hall, as well as with an alumnae initiate of Nu Beta who also has two Nu Beta sisters as daughters.  After the game, we made our way back to the Grove to spend some time with even more sisters before heading to the Square.

The outcome of the game may not have been what Rebel fans were hoping for, but the opportunity to share these moments with sisters and friends is always a Win!  I look forward to when we reopen our chapter house for future Homecoming celebrations, and our sisters once again start making memories of their own from their newly renovated home on Rebel Drive.  Until then, follow our new Instagram page @nubeta_newhome for exciting updates on construction and the campaign!

September 19, 2024
Our Home, Our Legacy: Support the Campaign for Nu Beta
By Crystal Grafton Combs, Campaign Co-Chair

The Nu Beta chapter house has been a home away from home for thousands of sisters throughout the years. Since 1958, our members have walked through the doors at 544 Rebel Drive for chapter meetings, philanthropy events, late-night study sessions, and to binge watch favorite shows with sisters.

Whether you “lived in” or not, the AOII house was not just a house, it was a home. It was where we met for dance practices and to walk together to the Grove. It was where we hosted candlelight circles and painted banners for ballgames. Core memories were made. Traditions were started. A legacy was established.

While we know that it is the people that make a house a home, the time has come for our home to reflect the spirit of our members today. The women of Nu Beta continue to INSPIRE AMBITION in all that they do, from their academic pursuits and philanthropic endeavors to their engagement in campus organizations and community activities. From the two-story entry to the monumental staircase and sparkling chandelier, the planned renovations are designed to create a home that our members can be proud of as they walk through the doors each and every day.

We hope you will join us in making a contribution to the Nu Beta: Our Home, Our Legacy campaign today! Where do you see yourself? Is it as a member of our Columns Society with an opportunity to name a designated space? Is it as a member of our 544 Club celebrating the location where our newly renovated home will come to life? Or is it as a member of our 1958 Society commemorating the year of our chapter’s founding? Wherever you see yourself, giving is easy. We invite you to make a one-time gift or a pledge in support of our sisterhood and this campaign. Regardless of the amount, every gift matters.

Thank you in advance for being a part of our past as we celebrate our present and prepare for our future!

September 19, 2024
Preparing for Construction at the House

The fence is up and excitement is building! Nu Beta members gather with smiles as we prepare to kick off construction later this year on our highly-anticipated chapter house renovation.

September 19, 2024
Meet the Campaign Co-Chairs
By Crystal Grafton Combs, Campaign Co-Chair


Why AOII?
From the moment I walked through the doors during the first round of recruitment, I knew I loved AOII.  The experience was real, refreshing (they literally served us ice water in August), and fun!  I often tell the story that the last words shared with me during Preference, as I was walking out the door and down the steps, was that as an AOII I could make a difference.  It is the reason that I pledged AOII.  It is also the reason that I have continued to serve in the nearly 30 years since.

What is so special about the house to you now and how does it contribute to your alumnae experience?
The AOII house is still the center of all things Ole Miss for me.  Headed to a baseball game?  Walking over to the Grove?  Seeing a performance at the Ford Center?  Meet me at the house and we will go together.

If you could share any advice regarding sisterhood, what would it be?
Always remember that AOII is for a lifetime. Our friendships are for a lifetime. Let them empower you. Let them inspire you. Just like the sheaf of wheat, we are stronger together.

September 19, 2024
Meet the Campaign Co-Chairs
By Susan Owen Virostek, Campaign Co-Chair

What are you most excited for in this renovation?
The reconfiguring of the front entryway.  The house will not be divided down the middle and the entry way will be a welcoming space for all who enter. The added space upstairs will provide the members with the additional space they need. The improved dining facilities will enhance the members’ experience in the house.

Why were you interested in serving in this role as campaign chair?
In 2018, my daughter ran home to AOII at 544 Rebel Drive. It was such an amazing feeling to know my daughter was now my sister. At this time her pledge class had 132 women, and the house was so full you couldn’t move. I knew at that moment we were going to need a bigger house. Nu Beta was bursting at the seams. Now that she has graduated, I still love returning to campus and going to the house. It brings back memories of my time there and the times she and I shared together. 

The women of Nu Beta deserve a house commensurate with the other sororities on campus. Living in Virgnia I am not able to volunteer locally as much as I would like to, and I felt this was an opportunity for me to give back. It was important and could be done from a distance.

We often hear that 544 Rebel “feels like home.” What does that mean to you?
I left my home 950 miles away when I arrived at Ole Miss. I knew nothing of Sorority Life and did not participate in Rush. It was the women of Nu Beta who opened the door to me and welcomed me in as COB. It was the best decision I made. When you walked into the house there was always someone to greet you.

September 19, 2024
Recap of our July VIP Planning Day
By Mary Faith Gregory, Assistant Director of Properties – Facility Enhancement

Taylor Bell Consulting, a boutique fundraising firm with specialization in sorority Greek fundraising campaigns, was hired for consulting work to help reignite the AOII Nu Beta house campaign fundraising efforts. Kelly Taylor, Taylor Bell Partner, and Lindsey Gale, Taylor Bell Associate, spent a full day on site at the AOII Nu Beta house in Oxford, MS on July 15, 2024 along with key AOII volunteers and staff, for an intensive workshop called VIP (Very Important Planning) Day.

Attendees:

• Angela Ladner, Lifetime Engagement Advisor
• Ashley Byrd, Executive Director, AOII Foundation
• Cindee Riordan, Major Gifts Officer
• Donna Jacobs, Chapter Advisor
• Jenna Cotton, AOII Alumna
• Jennifer Burton, Campaign Steering Committee
• Jessie Wang-Grimm, Properties Board President
• Julia Palmer, Campaign Volunteer
• Kandy Boernsketter, Continuous Recruitment Advisor & Past Foundation Board Member
• Katherine Thornton, Campaign Steering Committee
• Kaya Miller, Executive Director, AOII Fraternity
• Kelly Taylor, Taylor Bell Consulting, Partner
• Kitty Herndon, Campaign Volunteer
• Lindsey Gale, Taylor Bell Consulting, Associate
• Lynn Eckhardt, House Director
• Mandy Doyle, Director of Properties
• Mary Faith Gregory, Assistant Director of Properties – Facility Enhancement
• Megan Edwards Hodge, Academics Advisor
• Susan Virostek, Campaign Co-Chair

The day included the following key discussion topics and outcomes:

• Everyone Sharing Their “Nu Beta Why”
• Lessons Learned/Situational Analysis
• Feedback on the Case for Support
• Diving Into Data Trends
• Discussing RACI – Who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted and Informed for Critical Campaign Components
• Identifying Prospects and Prioritizing Prospects
• Developing the Roadmap & Critical Path Forward with Action Steps Toward Campaign Completion

Summary of Agreements

The AOII alumnae and fraternity and foundation staff present agreed upon the following during VIP Day:

• Implement a new, more continuous, fundraising model to support Nu Beta in near and long term
• Create a bolder vision for the project (including a wow factor for the entry and facade in the near term)
• Commit to clear and consistent communication amongst the three funding sources

Nu Beta “Why” 2034 Vision Summary Statement

By 2034, we are a top chapter choice for potential new members at Ole Miss and provide a home for collegians and alumnae to gather and share in their sense of pride and belonging. Our home is a comfortable, technologically advanced, and inviting living space that reflects the sisterhood and values of AOII. Our house is versatile and adaptable to meet the needs of our members, provides ample space for members to study, socialize, and relax. Our home is the foundation for building lifelong friendships and supporting the best possible sorority experience on campus. It is a place of pride for all AOIIs, where all members gather and feel a sense of connection and belonging.

Post VIP Day

Following VIP Day, Kelly and Lindsey took the insights and information gathered and provided the Capital Campaign Committee with a summary from the day, a draft roadmap outline, a suggested campaign timeline for the 24-25 fiscal year and who is responsible for the tasks, and updated prospect assignments.

We have lived at 544 Rebel Drive since the 1970s, serving our sisters at Ole Miss for generations. However, as our chapter has grown and evolved, we have recognized the need for a renovation to our home that can better accommodate our needs and support our future.  

Construction is set to begin in December of 2024 with a target completion date of November 2025. We will open the doors for chapter functions (chapter meetings, sisterhood events, meals, etc.) as soon as construction is complete; we anticipate late Fall 2025 – early Spring 2026. Members can begin to reside in the home for the Fall 2026 semester.   

The scope of the project has changed significantly since we first began this conversation in 2023. After feedback from the chapter member and alumnae, the Fraternity recognized the need to increase our investment from $5 million to 8 million.  

For example, the foyer was identified as a priority, so floor plans were shifted to include an expanded area that is both beautiful and helpful for the chapter to welcome guests for events such as recruitment. 

Another example is that a new servery space was created; designed to better meet needs for very large events such as game day activities. The servery will now be able to be closed to create a nicer event space in the common areas. 

Our target construction completion date is November 2025. We know that members of Nu Beta love spending time in our home. We will open the doors for chapter functions (chapter meetings, sisterhood events, meals, etc.) as soon as construction is complete; we anticipate late Fall 2025 – early Spring 2026. Members can begin to reside in the home for the Fall 2026 semester.

As soon as construction is complete–we are anticipating November 2025. We recognize the value of eating together to connect sisters on a daily basis. Meal service for the chapter will continue during construction with alternate accommodations. 

Members can begin to reside in the home for the Fall 2026 semester.  As that date gets closer, we will be working with the chapter to build the excitement of our return to Rebel Drive! Housing Agreements will be made available for members to consider in Fall 2025. 

We recognize how frustrating this is, especially on a campus like Ole Miss, because the house is a part of the identity of Nu Beta chapter. There are no rules that restrict the number of campus construction projects that impact our project. We can’t speak to why other chapter facilities have begun construction or are moving at a different timeline, however, what we can commit to is that our project begins in September 2024. Our first steps include a series of plan approvals, land surveys and appraisals, environmental tests, and other administrative tasks. Demolition and construction will follow, which is when you will start to see physical progress.

We will be sharing regular updates at least monthly with the chapter and advisory board so that you know what to expect as the project is ongoing.

While the house is not currently actively under construction, there are many components to this project that must be completed prior to demolition. Environmental testing of prior building materials and our surrounding property is done in conjunction with Ole Miss Facilities professionals. In addition, the scope of the project has been altered after feedback from local advisors and alumnae in July. All parties are committed to moving forward as quickly and safely as possible.

Headquarters is aware of the housing crisis; however, because of the dangers of construction once it begins, we cannot open up the dorms for members to live in. The facility will not have consistent electricity, water service, and other utilities that are necessary to protect the safety of any residents.

While we understand that some are very anxious to add additional rooms, that is not the sentiment shared by the committee members and local volunteers most recently. In fact, based on this conversation (and others), we are are shifting the focus of the renovation to common area spaces that can be shared by our members, especially since so many members will not be able to live in, given the current chapter size.

Space has already been secured for chapter meetings, events, sisterhood meals, and recruitment space through Fall 2025. As soon as we are permitted to host people in the facility, we will begin planning events in our home, which we anticipate to be between November 2025-March 2026. Support for chapter members to connect and feel a sense of belonging to AOII and with one another is a priority for local advisors, chapter officers, and international volunteers and professional staff members.

For any campaign-related questions, please contact the Campaign Co-Chairs:

• Crystal Grafton Combs: popsparklepip@gmail.com
• Susan Owen Virostek: nubetacapitalcampaign@gmail.com