Alumni Gathering

Coolies Invade Las Vegas for a Reunion

In September 1966, Wayne Coleman and Otto Zamek met in Cary 3, and a year later Bart Guttag and Chuck Phelps arrived at Hall Hall. In spring 1967, Coleman and Zamek rushed RSE becoming Coolies, and a year later Guttag and Phelps followed suit. Led by the spirit of Coleman’s big brother, Bob Briggs ’68, Coolies were RSE’s social chairmen for at least six consecutive semesters in the late ’60s, and the Coolies hosted many parties in the then undivided Coolie Room.

Old party habits die hard, and for some Coolies they still live. Bart instigated a 50-year Coolie reunion in Las Vegas March 11-15. For five days in Bart’s well-stocked suite in Treasure Island, the four Coolies recalled tales of RSE while pretending their livers were still 21. Otto (Chem ’70), Bart and Chuck (both Management ’71) have been successfully retired for years while Wayne (Aero ’70) is still an itinerant white-collar worker and musician in this gig economy.

The 150th Society Reunion in October 2016 with its huge turnout was fantastic, but five days together with former roommates was an experience they’ll never forget. Pleasant memories of experiences in the house came flooding back, and while the four Coolies did debate Fox News vs. CNN, they put politics aside to thoroughly enjoy one another’s company once again. The Coolies highly recommend similar reunions for all RSE brothers. 

Coolies pictured from left to right:  Otto Zamek ’70, Chuck Phelps ’71, Wayne Coleman ’70, and Bart Guttag ’71.