December 15, 2009
To The Men of Archon;
As the current advisor to the Archon fraternity, I find it appropriate to reflect on this organization as the end of 2009 draws near. Throughout this entire year, the active order has remained busy and taken a real initiative to include itself in university life at Rio.
Your current president, James “Adam” McDaniel, has performed admirably in his duties as a leader. From the time he took office and we first met to discuss the goals and objectives of the organization, it was apparent that Adam wanted to do what was right for all of the members who make up Archon. Adam is a very good listener and always the first to volunteer his time and energy. Both of these qualities are included in my definition of a true leader. Everyone (past and present) associated with the Archon fraternity should be proud of the approach Adam has taken as your current president.
Before classes even started in the fall, Archon was busy working on their house. Many of us volunteered several hours to cleaning, painting, fixing and trying to put some pride in the home that currently represents our organization. I have received several compliments on the house and how it has “improved” the image of our members. Even though there is still some work to do, our strides to improve the home have not gone unnoticed.
In addition to the house, the members have also volunteered to adopt the Bell Tower on campus. Throughout the year, the men of Archon have cleaned, pulled weeds, swept and maintained the area around one of our campus’ most known landmarks.
As the Director of Student Activities, one of my objectives was to revitalize and re-open the campus shelter house on campus. Although this structure had been abandoned for several years, I still felt that it could be a valuable option for on-campus activities. When I advised the members of my plan(s), they immediately volunteered to help. We now have a very nice shelter house for our students with tables, benches, decorative lattice, a grill and fire pit. We have already held several functions at the shelter house including a soccer party and a bonfire for Homecoming.
Along with the other fraternities and sororities at Rio, the men of Archon also volunteered to clean up the village park located less than a mile from campus. The University of Rio Grande All Greek Council has partnered with the Village of Rio Grande to help clean up, maintain and add to the park for the enjoyment of not only our students but area families and the students who will attend the new Rio Grande Elementary School being built adjacent to the park.
Throughout this year, I have continued to impress upon the active members the importance of the Archon tradition and how the history of their organization is directly tied to the history of our institution. The greatest challenge these young men face is the daunting task of upholding the name of Archon.
Although the organization has many challenges ahead of them in 2010; if all of our members “look right, act right and be right” I am confident their stated goals and objectives will be met.
As I take over as the Dean of Students for the University of Rio Grande, starting Feb. 1st, 2010, I look forward to what Archon can accomplish and continuing to be a part of something special.
Respectfully, Aaron M. Quinn
Director of Safety and Student Activities
Archon Advisor
