The Oklahoma State University Chi Omega–Tau Betas celebrated their new home by opening its doors to the community. Current Tau Betas hosted alumnae, friends, and family for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and house tours. Of the well-attended and heartwarming event, the Alumnae Housing Corporation said, “Fellow Tau Betas, as a house corporation we have planned, prepared, and anticipated this day. A day when we would open the doors to our beloved new home and welcome you all back once again. Our hearts are overflowing after today’s event and we are grateful to you for your support over the past three years. Thank you for the amazing turnout today and WELCOME BACK HOME!”
The 26,000-square-foot chapter house includes three floors and a finished basement. The first floor has several living areas, a large kitchen, and dining room. Living space and sleeping quarters are provided for the house administrator. Meeting rooms are available for both group and solo study. Bedrooms for 71 members are found on the second and third floors. The basement has a multipurpose room and an arts and crafts room that doubles as a storm shelter.
“You designed a beautiful house for us and it was a pleasure working with you!”
– Leslie Russell Frazier
Co-Director of Alternative Education at Oklahoma State Department of Education
Throughout the home, elements from the original house are present and repurposed including stained glass window panels as a wall feature in the dining room and the original front doors as doors to the basement multipurpose room. The decision to demolish the original house was an emotional one for many alumnae so this approach was well-received and appreciated. “You guys did an amazing job! I love the pieces that pay homage to the original house!” said Alumna Jennifer Wright Stickney.
Selser Schaefer Architects began collaborating with the Chi Omega–Tau Betas in 2018 working with the Alumnae Housing Corporation to design the home and then raise the funds needed to make it a reality. Both print and video renderings were used to support the successful fundraising efforts and by April 2021 we broke ground and began construction. And now, after the ribbon-cutting celebration, the house truly feels like home.
Read more about the new Chi Omega–Tau Beta house at OSU here.
