by
Becky Schlake, Communications Coordinator
All five members of the DeSutter family will be
attending the National Convention in Minnesota. From left to right: Madeline
(age 2), Mike, Charlene (age 13), John (age 5), and Melanie.
Illinois State alumnus, Mike DeSutter, doesn’t want to hide the fact that
AGR National conventions are all about fun.
DuSutter, a 1986 initiate at Illinois State, has attended every convention
(with one exception) since 1988. Not only has the Illinois farmer attended
all those conventions, but his family has attended the last three
conventions as well. DeSutter said that going to conventions “reenergizes
him as to why he became an AGR.” He is quick to point out that the
conventions are really a good time – not just fraternity meetings. He
explains that the fraternity business gets taken care of, but conventions
are mainly a time for meeting old friends, making new ones, and networking
with AGR’s from all across the country. DeSutter’s family enjoys attending
the conventions because they get to visit a new part of the country, go on
exciting tours, and stay in a nice hotel.
DeSutter’s first convention experience in 1988, as a Noble Ruler, set the
standard for his future conventions. He recalls meeting Orville Redenbacher
and Earl Butz, and being very impressed by these agricultural giants. What
stood out in DeSutter’s memory more than anything else, however, is that
these important people are just regular people that were willing to talk and
socialize just like anyone else.
DeSutter says that he is always amazed at how many AGR’s he runs across from
all over the country and how friendly all brothers are.
DeSutter and his family, (wife – Melanie, children -- Charlene, 13; John, 5;
and Madeline, 2) are planning on attending the 2002 National Convention in
Minnesota on August 11-15. Mike DeSutter encourages all AGR’s to attend
National Conventions, and to bring their families with them. He promises it
will be an unforgettable experience.
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