Delta Tau Delta - Ball State University

2 THE IRIS A s Eric "Ike" Eicher '98 got to know Delta Tau Delta through some freshman friends, he was still unsure about trying recruitment—and what happened as a result may have convinced him to do it. "They stopped asking me to join but kept asking me to come down," Ike recalls. "I felt like they respected where I was." From there, he could tell that Delt was a true brotherhood. "I saw guys that wanted to be the best and push each other in their endeavors, but also had each other's backs. I felt like the brotherhood could make me better." He was right: through Epsilon Mu, Ike developed leadership skills early and often while furthering his confidence and ambitions. He also gained a network of over 100 Delt brothers from all different backgrounds and goals in life. "They showed me how to work with people, but also to understand that everyone has a different story and you can learn from them all." The leadership roles and networks Ike gained through Delt provided a great foundation for starting and running a business. After working in marketing and insurance for years, Ike started his own branding and video agency, IKECONIC, in 2011—followed by the marketing firm RightHand with a business partner in 2018. Ike has won several awards throughout his professional life, worked with creative clients and public figures nationwide, and even Developing Lives of Excellence How Delt Inspired Ike Eicher '98 Toward Success presented at Ball State and other universities. Still, much like Delt, the best part has been the bonds and relationships he has formed along the way. "The success is great, but the experiences, opportunities, and people that my career has given me is worth more than anything else." His Delt brothers have proved invaluable, aiding Ike in referrals, networking, and support when needed. Between all the student leadership roles, philanthropy work, and being the unofficial chapter DJ, Ike finds it tough to choose any specific memories as his favorite. "I'll put it this way: senior year damn near killed me. It was one of the hardest times of my life knowing that stage of my life was closing. I love all those guys." Thankfully, the responsibilities of work and family life haven't kept the brothers apart. They often text and check in, and they also reconnect at least once a year for events like golf and cookouts. The active brothers at the Shelter are also in Ike's thoughts during this pandemic, and he hopes they know many other alumni are thinking of them as well. "Hang in there, brothers—better days are ahead." Ike's greatest pride is in his family. His wife (a Chi O from Ball State) is a nurse who has worked in children's medicine, lifeline, and recently volunteered in the adult COVID unit at IU North in Carmel, Indiana. They have two kids, daughter Addi and son Cam, and the whole family enjoys staying active together. Ike and Addi are both involved in taekwondo (Ike being a senior instructor training for his fourth degree), and he also coaches Cam's football teams. If you'd like to connect with Ike, he can be reached at ericscotteicher@gmail.com. Philanthropy Comes First O n the heels of March Madness, Epsilon Mu hosted Delt Madness. It's been over a year since Ball State imposed COVID-19 restrictions on the Greek community. After finally receiving permission from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, the chapter had limited time to put together a three-on-three basketball tournament. It would prove to be the first Greek philanthropic event held on campus since March 2020, and that's a pretty big deal! We had 14 teams register for the tournament. Face masks were distributed to all in attendance and other safety protocols were addressed. Money raised was split between the winning team and the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence. Nearly $300 was raised for the organization with only a few days' preparation and no sponsorships solicited. Many in attendance encouraged the Delts to further pursue this event as those present enjoyed the activity. Active members hope to expand this event to raise greater awareness and money for the selected philanthropies. Ike with his wife, Jill, and their two kids, Addi and Cam.

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