Phi Kappa Psi - University of Texas

"The unity of the pledge class was the most important thing to me through my pledgeship and as an underclassman. Everything we did was as a group. It wasn't just about the brotherhood; it was about each one of us and caring about each other." AN UNBREAKABLE BOND ROBERT JOHNSON '64 STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE OF PLEDGE CLASS UNITY The bond between brothers can span the course of a lifetime, and for Robert Johnson '64, it is especially true for him and his pledge brothers. "What I liked most about pledgeship was how upperclassmen stressed unity amongst the pledge class. We were very close and knew things had to be done together," he said. In fact, when Robert visited the chapter house years ago to receive an award, he was asked for advice, to which he replied, "Well, you need to do two things: stay close to your pledge class because they'll be your friends for the rest of your life. And learn how to play golf. It teaches humility and is a chance to meet business acquaintances and friends." Remaining friends with his pledge brothers has held true for Robert, as the group enjoys reuniting every few years. "Pledge class unity was the most important thing to me through my pledgeship and as an underclassman. Everything we did was as a group. It wasn't just about the brotherhood; it was about each of us caring for one another." Aside from offering enduring friendships, Texas Alpha also gave Robert the chance to develop essential life skills. Through Phi Psi he learned how to be social, responsible, the importance of paying bills on time, and punctuality. Robert then transferred this knowledge into his career as a Ford dealer in Austin and has used them to grow the company. "I'm fortunate to have done well. I also have a great family: two daughters and a couple of grandkids." Looking at today's undergraduates, Robert is impressed by their "extreme intelligence" and says it appears the same sense of pledge class unity is being instilled and is deep-seeded in Texas Alpha's brotherhood. "If I try to compare them to my class, they're so much sharper. They come in with the highest marks I've heard of, as far as university grades, and that is incredible," he said. Throughout the years Robert has stayed involved with Texas Alpha through membership on the house corporation board and encourages alumni involvement, whether it's through a mentoring program or financial contributions. "I'm inspired by what Scott Noble '81 did for the fraternity and have worked to be more active and think everyone should as well," he said. "I give Scott full credit for saving the fraternity and putting it back together. I'm very impressed with the things he did and his generosity." From the day he pledged, to the endless pranks, serenades and varsity carnivals, Robert's undergraduate years are worthy of remembrance. If you'd like to catch up with Robert, he can be reached at rjjohns@hotmail.com or (512) 750-0914. ALPHA AVALANCHE | TEXAS ALPHA | PHI KAPPA PSI | | WINTER EDITION 2018

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