Delta Tau Delta - Butler University

and therapist, Kristen Boyce. "Kristen asked if I would share my feelings on social media," Chris stated. Initially thinking, this is going to be interesting, Chris discovered something far more interesting—vulnerability is empowering. After his first time sharing his thoughts, concerns, and insights, Chris noticed the positive feedback. "If I can go online every other week and essentially have a therapy session and show that I, too, am vulnerable and struggle with challenges, then it helps set my community at ease," Chris shared. "Everyone has stuff going on, and the opportunity to have a conversation where we listen to each other and hear each other boosts empathy and understanding." Not only does Chris' willingness to publicize his vulnerability put his peers at ease by showing them a personable and humanistic leader, but he finds that he benefits from it as well. Every Monday as part of Mental Health Mondays, Chris sets aside time to converse with his life coach and focus on his well-being; whether he's brainstorming goals he hopes to achieve or deliberating obstacles he plans to overcome, addressing a few minutes out of the day to breathe, unwind, and reflect has improved his relationship with himself and his peers. "I know that taking time to breathe seems really simple," Chris admitted, "but being able to control your breathing during stressful times is something I use daily." Before attending a contentious meeting, combatting a public safety challenge, or dealing with unforeseen stressors, taking the time to practice breathing exercises is an instilled factor of Chris' day-to-day life. "As a society, we've gotten away from having hard conversations; we don't want to be challenged to see the world differently," Chris shared. "But it makes us so much better." Similar to how his Beta Zeta friendships were forged, taking advantage opportunities to be open with others in his community has created a stronger bond. The tough times and difficult conversations are worth it— the bond he has with Noblesville is unbreakable. "My main takeaway is that kindness can go a long way. Sitting in the seat of a mayor, I get to see the best of people, cheer them on, and root for them. I also, however, get a front row seat to some pretty bad things too," Chris shared. "So, showing kindness can make a vast difference in someone's day, and it's important to give that concession to everyone." With many more groundbreaking community plans and constructive Mondays ahead, Chris plans to continue inspiring vulnerability as it makes us braver, stronger, and better. Amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic, Chris set the standard for his community and his family that empathy, humanity, and dedication to service shine a light through dark times. You can connect with Chris at ctjensen1@gmail.com. "No relationship is too small. Never undervalue the people you meet; they could become future leaders, future friends, or future colleagues. Although sometimes we may disagree on politics or beliefs, there is significance to broadening your perspective." A lot of people love media in some form or another—they enjoy watching TV and movies and scrolling through social media. In today's day and age, individuals are constantly inspired to change and improve their lives based on what they see on the internet. This is precisely what sparked Todd Bolster '05 to start his marketing career. "I watched the movie What Women Want, and I was captivated by the scene where Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt pitch Nike for their new women's running line," Todd said. "I had never seen behind the scenes of the pitch process before, and I've been hooked ever since." Todd is the vice president of client services at The Basement, a marketing and advertising agency in Indianapolis, and he is proud of the progress the company has made over the years. "When I started, I was the 11th employee. This year, we crossed the elusive 50-employee mark," he said. "One of my favorite accomplishments has been going from one Butler grad on the team to over 20 in the last few years." That is just the beginning of Todd's career highlights. "In 2021, we closed a deal with our first direct Fortune 100 client," he shared. "Surviving the five- month procurement gauntlet in that process was a huge win." That same week, The Basement won its first international request for proposal (RFP). Todd and his colleagues also closed deals with IU and the Purdue Research Foundation in the same quarter in 2020, and they recently brought Butler back as a client. Todd credits Beta Zeta to where he is today. The lessons he learned in the fraternity have been instrumental to his development, and his personal values align with those of Delta Tau Delta: Truth, Courage, Faith, and Power. "Delt has given me so many mentors and inspired me to think bigger about the positive impact I can have in the world," he said. "We are standing on the shoulders of so many giants: Jim Russell, Purdue University '75, Ken File, Kansas State University '81, Norval Stephens, Depauw University '51, Russell Douglass, University of Texas '81, Jody Danneman, University of Georgia '88, Alan Brackett, Tulane University '82, Jidge Verity, University of Oklahoma '70, Scott Drew '93, Branch Rickey, Ohio Wesleyan University 1904, and many others. One part of Todd's career that means the most to him is the chance to spot talent in others and help them achieve their goals; "Success to me means creating a situation where you can help others succeed," he said. "My favorite saying as advice to others would be, 'As you climb, lift others up with you.'" Todd shares that he is blessed to live this life with his wife, Emilie, and their children, Haylee (8), Ian (6), and Sylvie (6). In his free time, Todd enjoys traveling and experiencing new food and drinks. He loves sports, music, and spending time with friends. You can connect with Todd at toddbolster@gmail.com. DELTA TAU DELTA Page 2 To register and donate for TRIKE 2022, please visit: events.dancemarathon.com/event/TRIKE2022 todd Bolster '05 supports his Clients, Colleagues, and FaMily Helping Others Succeed Todd Bolster '05 with his children. A Shining Light to Steer Away from Darkness (Continued from page 1)

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