The Quarterly

Congratulations to Beta Upsilon Chapter alumnus Joe Ritz (pictured left), who was honored with Rose-Hulman’s 2026 Tom Mason Innovation Award in recognition of his groundbreaking work in the medical device industry. A 1993 mechanical engineering graduate, Ritz has built a distinguished career advancing the use of Nitinol, a nickel-titanium alloy, in next-generation orthopedic and cardiothoracic medical technologies designed to improve patient outcomes worldwide. Ritz currently serves as president of Blaze Biotech, LLC, and CEO and co-founder of RMR Ortho, Inc., and Chorus Cardiothoracic Technologies, Inc. Through his leadership and innovation, Nitinol-based orthopedic implants have expanded from a niche market valued at less than $10 million to a market exceeding $250 million. RMR Ortho’s A’TOMIC Nitinol Fixation System received FDA clearance in 2024 and has already been used in more than 700 procedures, while the company recently secured a strategic partnership with global medical technology leader Smith & Nephew. While at Rose-Hulman, Ritz balanced the demands of engineering studies with football and involvement in Sigma Nu, experiences he credits with developing the discipline and work ethic that fueled his entrepreneurial success. He also remains actively connected to the Institute through the Sawmill Society Angels network, mentoring and supporting emerging student and alumni entrepreneurs.

Each year, the North American Interfraternity Conference recognizes individuals who exemplify the highest ideals of fraternity through leadership, service, and values-based impact, with its annual Awards of Distinction. The Legion of Honor is proud to celebrate Brother Jaxon Naviaux, who was named an Undergraduate of Distinction. This honor reflects Jaxon’s commitment to advancing the principles of Love, Honor, and Truth through his leadership, service, and dedication to his chapter and community.

Over the weekend of March 28, the Beta Upsilon Chapter at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology hosted its annual Burgers for Heroes event, partnering with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit that supports military service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. It was founded in honor of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter who died on September 11, 2001, after running through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers with his gear to help others.

In early December, just in time for the holiday season, brothers from the Beta Upsilon Chapter at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology took part in RHIT’s annual Bikes for Tykes service event. Partnering with Rose-Hulman and Chances and Services for Youth, the men helped assemble bicycles for children throughout the Terre Haute, Ind., community. Their efforts contributed to the completion of nearly 200 bikes, helping ensure local youth experienced the joy of the season.

On September 27, the brothers from the Beta Upsilon Chapter at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology participated in the Fall Day of Service. The men helped move pallets to prepare for the RHIT Homecoming bonfire.