Beta Sigma Phi Celebrates Valentine Queen in Great Bend

Local sorority chapter honors Susan Coulson as this year's Valentine Queen

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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Members of the Preceptor Pi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi in Great Bend, Kansas gathered at Flavored Creations restaurant to celebrate their 2026 Valentine Queen, Susan Coulson. The group also enjoyed two educational programs - one on the history of Russell Stover Candy Co. and another on the unique Lustron Homes found in the local area.

Why it matters

The annual Valentine Queen celebration is a longstanding tradition for the Preceptor Pi Chapter, honoring a member who exemplifies the sorority's values. The programs on local history and businesses also help foster a sense of community among the group.

The details

During the event, Cindy Meitler gave a presentation on the origins of Russell Stover Candy Co., which was founded in 1920 by Kansas natives Russell and Clara Stover. Karen Hayes also spoke about the Lustron Homes, prefabricated steel houses that were popular in the late 1940s, with 18 located in Great Bend and 20 throughout Barton County.

  • The Preceptor Pi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi met on February 20, 2026 to celebrate their Valentine Queen.
  • Russell Stover Candy Co. was founded in 1920 by the Stover couple in their kitchen.

The players

Susan Coulson

The 2026 Valentine Queen honored by the Preceptor Pi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.

Cindy Meitler

A member of the Preceptor Pi Chapter who gave a presentation on the history of Russell Stover Candy Co.

Karen Hayes

A member of the Preceptor Pi Chapter who spoke about the unique Lustron Homes found in the Great Bend area.

Russell Stover

The Kansas native who founded the Russell Stover Candy Co. in 1920 with his wife Clara.

Clara Stover

The wife of Russell Stover who helped found the Russell Stover Candy Co. and provided the original recipes.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This event highlights the strong sense of community and tradition within the Preceptor Pi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as they come together to honor one of their own and learn about the local history and businesses that are important to the Great Bend area.