This alumnus spotlighted for the month of November is Terry Thorton. Terry, an integral member of the house as it began to grow, has been a very involved alumnus, coming back to the house every semester to teach the new members the chapters local history. The chapter is much better for having members like him and appreciates all Terry has done. What for you has been the best part of Alpha Tau Omega?
At ATO i received an experience i could't find anywhere else. The obvious postive are the friendships I have developed. My then are my best friends now and i can' t imagine my life without them. Beyond the friendships, ATO gave me the opportunity for real leadership and growth. Activies ranging from organizing massive philanthropy events, social events, communicating with businesses, and leadership training gave me an experience unparalled in the classroom.
What is one of your fondest ATO memory?
One of my fondest memories is receving our first award. I would like to say that receiving national top chapter, golden chapter and top chapter runner up would be my fondest memory, but it was the "Chapter Communications" award we received in 2002 that I hold most dear. That award was the culmination of two years of massive effort by the founding fathers and the first few pledge classes to build ATO into the vision we sougt. It was the only award we won that semester, but it symbolized how far we had come from a new organization with 30 members starting from scratch to a fraternity worthy of public recognition. The very next semester and over the next several years ATO would come to dominate all the award ceremonies, but it all started with that lone "Chapter Communications" award. Props to Justin Fine and Geoff Brower for being pivital in earning us that award.
How has ATO contributed to your professional career?
The leadership experiences I gained were vital in helping my professional development. If not for ATO I would not have developed the drive, passion and skills I needed to get where I am today. After ATO I went on to Harvard University to receive my graduate degree in a Master's of Public Policy. I just recently gradauted and am now an associate of the CTW Investment group. Without ATO, I would not have acheived the successes I enjoy today.
What message would you like to give to the active members?
To always innovate. Be creative and find better ways to do the things that make our house great. Never stay static and continue to find new ways to improve the house.