Blue whale skeleton assembly time-lapse

Watch as the skeleton of a 70-foot blue whale is assembled into a display at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon. The massive, 5,500 pound skeleton and the steel support system built for it were assembled over six days in May 2026, with most of the bones being placed individually by hand by a three-person team from Alberta, Canada-based Dinosaur Valley Studios.

The skeleton is one of only a handful of blue whale skeletons available for public viewing in North America, and the only one between Vancouver, British Columbia, and the San Francisco Bay area. Blue whales – the largest animals ever to live – are endangered. Because they live primarily in the deep ocean, they are rarely visible to the public and tend to sink when they die.

When the whale’s body was discovered near Gold Beach, Oregon, in 2015, leaders of OSU’s Marine Mammal Institute recognized a rare opportunity to turn an unfortunate loss into a resource for learning and discovery, and now that vision has become reality.

Ethan Shaw

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331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

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Building Leaders Through Service and Involvement

Leadership isn't something that develops overnight. It grows through experience, responsibility, and a willingness to serve others. For many fraternity members, chapter involvement provides countless opportunities to develop these important qualities.

Every committee, event, and leadership position offers valuable experience. Whether organizing a philanthropy fundraiser, mentoring new members, coordinating community service projects, or serving as a chapter officer, members gain practical skills that extend far beyond college.

Community service is another cornerstone of fraternity life. Volunteering with local organizations, raising funds for charitable causes, and participating in campus-wide service events allow members to make a meaningful impact while strengthening relationships within the chapter.

These experiences also help members develop communication, problem-solving, time management, and collaboration skills. Learning to work as a team while balancing academics, personal commitments, and chapter responsibilities prepares members for future careers and leadership roles.

Perhaps most importantly, fraternity involvement teaches that leadership is about serving others. The strongest leaders listen, encourage, and help those around them succeed.

A successful fraternity is measured not only by its traditions but by the positive influence its members have on one another, their campus, and the surrounding community. By embracing opportunities to lead and serve, members leave a legacy that continues long after their college years come to an end.

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

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More Than a Membership: The Lasting Value of Brotherhood

When people think about fraternities, they often picture social events and campus traditions. While those experiences are certainly part of fraternity life, the strongest chapters are built on something much deeper: brotherhood.

Brotherhood means showing up for one another—not just during celebrations, but also during challenges. It's the late-night study sessions before exams, the encouragement after a tough week, and the friendships that continue long after graduation.

One of the greatest benefits of joining a fraternity is becoming part of a network of people who share common values and goals. Members learn how to work together, communicate effectively, and support one another through life's ups and downs. These relationships often become lifelong friendships and professional connections.

Fraternity life also encourages personal growth. Members take on leadership positions, organize philanthropic events, manage budgets, and help plan chapter activities. These experiences build confidence, responsibility, and teamwork—skills that are valuable both on campus and in future careers.

At its best, a fraternity is about becoming part of something larger than yourself. It's about creating traditions, serving the community, and helping each member become the best version of themselves.

The memories made during college may last a lifetime, but the lessons learned through brotherhood can shape a lifetime as well.

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

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Between the Trees 2026

From late nights to lifelong friendships, college gave them moments they’ll never forget. Now, it’s time for what’s next.

 

In honor of Commencement, "Between the Trees" returns — featuring graduating pairs from the Class of 2026 reflecting on how Oregon State shaped their journey.

Take a moment with them to look back, before they step forward into their next chapter.

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

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Why Traditions Matter: Building Brotherhood Across Generations

Every fraternity has its own traditions—whether it's an annual event, a shared meal, a service project, or a ceremony that has been passed down through generations.

At first glance, traditions may seem like simple routines. In reality, they play an important role in building connection, preserving history, and strengthening a sense of belonging.

Traditions Tell a Story

Every chapter has a unique history shaped by the members who came before.

Traditions help preserve that history by connecting today's members with alumni who experienced many of the same events, values, and milestones years—or even decades—earlier.

Shared Experiences Create Stronger Bonds

One of the reasons traditions endure is because they bring people together.

Whether members are volunteering side by side, celebrating chapter achievements, or welcoming new members, these shared experiences create memories that often become lasting friendships.

Service Becomes a Tradition, Too

Many fraternities have long-standing commitments to philanthropy and community service.

Returning each year to support meaningful causes reinforces the idea that fraternity membership isn't only about what members gain—it's also about how they contribute to others.

Alumni Keep the Legacy Alive

Graduation doesn't necessarily mark the end of fraternity involvement.

Many alumni remain connected by mentoring students, attending chapter events, supporting scholarships, or sharing career advice. These relationships help bridge generations and strengthen the chapter's future.

Looking Ahead While Honoring the Past

Traditions aren't about staying the same forever—they're about carrying forward the values that matter most.

As each new class of members joins, they add their own experiences and perspectives while helping preserve the principles that define the fraternity.

The result is a living legacy—one built not just on history, but on leadership, friendship, service, and the commitment to leave the chapter stronger for the next generation.

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

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agrsocialchair@gmail.com

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More Than Social Events: Five Skills You Can Build Through Fraternity Life

When people think about fraternities, they often picture campus traditions, social events, and lifelong friendships. While those experiences are certainly part of the journey, fraternity membership can also provide opportunities to develop valuable skills that extend far beyond college.

Here are five skills many members have the chance to strengthen through active involvement.

1. Leadership

From serving as a chapter officer to organizing events or leading committees, fraternity members often take on responsibilities that require planning, communication, and decision-making.

These experiences can help members learn how to motivate others, manage projects, and work toward shared goals.

2. Teamwork

No successful chapter is built by one person.

Planning philanthropy events, recruiting new members, coordinating community service projects, and supporting chapter operations all require collaboration. Learning to work with people who have different personalities and perspectives is a skill that remains valuable throughout life.

3. Time Management

Balancing academics, fraternity commitments, work, athletics, and personal responsibilities isn't always easy.

Many members discover that staying organized and managing their schedules effectively becomes an important part of making the most of their college experience.

4. Communication

Whether speaking at chapter meetings, introducing guest speakers, or connecting with alumni, fraternity life offers many opportunities to practice clear and respectful communication.

Strong communication skills benefit students in the classroom, the workplace, and everyday life.

5. Community Engagement

Many fraternities participate in service projects and philanthropic initiatives that support local and national causes.

Giving back helps members recognize the importance of civic responsibility while creating meaningful connections within their communities.

A Foundation for the Future

Every member's experience is unique, but one common thread often remains: the opportunity to grow personally while contributing to something larger than yourself.

The friendships may begin in college, but the lessons learned through leadership, service, and teamwork can continue long after graduation.

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

Email

agrsocialchair@gmail.com

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The psychology of playing safe

Ethan Shaw

(707)-621-0989

331 NW 26th Street

Corvallis, OR 97330

Email

agrsocialchair@gmail.com

Contact Us

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