Gamma Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity at Auburn University
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1520736
3 AUBURN UNIVERSITY S igma Chi has been a home away from home for countless students over the years. For John Smyth '93, the brotherhood continues to influence his career, goals, and values. John, a fourth-generation Tiger hailing from Arkansas, found himself at Auburn with no prior connections aside from his older sister—a concern that Sigma Chi soon put to rest. "ere were three older brothers in the chapter who also had Arkansas roots," John recalled. "is deep sense of belonging played a pivotal role in my decision to join and remain a member of the brotherhood." During his time as an undergraduate, John was actively involved within the fraternity, holding the position of recruitment chairman during his junior year and later serving as IFC recruitment vice president as a senior. Since then, Gamma Sigma Chapter has been a source of pride for John, due in part to the strong financial footing they have maintained over the years. "I'm impressed by the debt-free house corporation and of our scholarship foundation, which has over $500,000 in assets available to assist the chapter," he said. is financial stability, bolstered by support from Sigma Chis of various generations, sets the chapter apart on campus. John also respects the current undergraduates and dedicated Chapter Advisor Brian Snyder. "I attended and assisted with initiation ceremonies this fall—I have never seen a Sigma Chi chapter do a better job executing the initiation ceremony. at told me everything I needed to know about the state of our chapter. eir values are in the right place." Gamma Sigma provided lifelong friendships and a professional network that significantly influenced John's career. He acknowledges the support of fellow Sigma Chis, such as Auburn Significant Sigs Scott Vowell '60 and Jim ompson '66, who served as mentors early in his legal career. John strives to pay it forward by mentoring younger brothers entering the legal profession. John is proud to have practiced law at one of the country's leading law firms, Maynard Nexsen, for the past 25 years. His professional growth and the opportunity to lead the Complex Litigation practice group at the firm have been deeply rewarding. In recognition of his commitment to the fraternity, John was recently inducted into the Order of Constantine, Sigma Chi's highest honor. "I am very humbled to be inducted into this Order," John said. "I appreciate my Sigma Chi mentor, Bob Benz '60, who is responsible for nominating me and securing the votes necessary to get me into the club. I've got the rest of my life to make sure I deserve the honor." John resides in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, with his family. He is married to his college sweetheart, Leigh Ann Waddle, and they have two grown children, Mary Katherine and Hunter. ey enjoy their time at Lake Martin, and you can oen find John on a golf course when he's not working. If you'd like to hear more about John's Sigma Chi experience, you can send him an email at jsmyth@maynardnexsen.com. A CONVERSATION WITH ORDER OF CONSTANTINE RECIPIENT JOHN SMYTH '93 Brotherhood That Stands the Test of Time Our priority is to raise our overall GPA through targeted support systems such as study groups and tutoring sessions, ensuring that every member has the resources needed to excel academically. We also aim to deepen our engagement with the Auburn University community by actively participating in campus events, volunteering for service projects, and collaborating with other student groups, strengthening Sigma Chi's reputation as a dynamic and impactful organization. Lastly, we are committed to assisting our brothers in securing internships and post-graduate opportunities by providing tailored resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs, equipping them with the skills and connections needed for success in their future endeavors. Chapter Goals for 2024-25 Consul Colin Rigor '25 Pro Consul Landon Miller '26 Annotator Camden Cantrelle '26 Quaestor Nick Leonard '26 Magister Carter Zittrouer '25 Risk Manager Beau Barnes '27 Recruitment Chairman Caedmon Hunt '27 Kustos Robert Rebman '26 House Manager Clay Shackelford '26 Tribune Jackson Haden '26 Social Chairman Hudson Carter '26 Scholarship Chairman Benji Hull '26 Brotherhood Chairman Cole Barnett '25 Historian Seth Worthington '27 Philanthropy Chairman Taylor Lansden '25 Steward RJ Meyer '25 Sports Chairman Garrett Ledford '27 Tailgate Chairman Jake Davis '25 Chaplain Jack Irish '27 Diversity Chairman Nikolas Mack '26 As we prepare for a new school year, Gamma Sigma is focused on three key goals: 1. Improving our academic performance 2. Expanding our campus involvement 3. Supporting our brothers in their professional development Chapter Officers