Delta Tau Delta - University of Kansas

Delta Tau Delta page 2 M ost alumni realize shortly after graduation that college is but a short slice of our lives. However, for those who were lucky enough to be a part of Greek life, like Mark McKee '84, their friendships and memories last a lifetime. "It doesn't matter how long it has been since you've seen an active Brother; when you get back together, it's like yesterday," Mark said. "I often think about Bob Rafferty '83 and Chuck Dervin '82, two awesome Delt Brothers that we lost way too early." From football tailgates at the Shelter to paddle parties and Hawkstock with Huey Lewis and the News, Mark enjoys reminiscing on memories from his undergraduate years. He even recalls the opportunity to start his own business his sophomore year at KU, Pyramid Pizza. "I took an entrepreneurial route since starting Pyramid Pizza and have been involved in many businesses over the years," Mark said. "I've enjoyed my successes and tried to learn from my mistakes, but most importantly, I love what I do." Mark now serves as CEO and partner of the Kansas City Monarchs Baseball Club and is having a blast. They won the championship in his first season after taking over the team and rebranding from the T-Bones "We also manage the stadium and are developing it into a year-round sports and entertainment destination," Mark said. "We created our first festival, called Tacos & Tequila, and featuring Ludacris and sold it out." One of his proudest accomplishments, however, is co-founding a charity called The Big Slick with his wife, Julie, and brother-in-law 13 years ago. They produce a three-day celebrity event in Kansas City every year and have raised over $13 million to date for Children's Mercy Hospital. Mark is also the proud father of three Kappas—two Jayhawk graduates and one sophomore Tiger. His wife, Julie, was a Theta at KU, resulting in one big Greek family. "I love spending time with my family and friends," Mark shares. "I also enjoy being at the lake, playing tennis, traveling, reading, and watching KU basketball." It's never too late to reconnect, so reach out to Mark at mmckee@monarchsbaseball.com. "It doesn't matter how long it has been since you've seen an active Brother; when you get back together, it's like yesterday." Once a Delt, Always a Delt Mark McKee '84 Reflects on His Active Years and Successes Since Mark McKee '84 and his family celebrate the Kansas City Monarchs' championship victory. T ell us what you're up to! How have you lent a hand in your community lately? Do you have any career highlights or family updates you'd like to share with your Delt Brothers? How have you stayed connected during the pandemic? Have you reached out to any Brothers for support during this time of uncertainty? Share your story, and it may appear in a future issue of Eleven Eleven Report! Submissions can be sent to our communications coordinator at aolbrych@penningtonco.com. Now more than ever, it's important to stay connected to our Gamma Tau Brothers. We hope you have a great year in 2022! We Want to Hear from You!

• Cover