Sigma Chi - University of Missouri

THE TIGER SIG Fall 2014 Page 3 J ay Shields '76, president of Schaeffer Manufacturing Company, started uniquely in his family business. He went on the road to sell one of the toughest of markets and he worked only on commission. His sales target for Schaeffer lubricants was farmers and, as a recent college graduate, he had to build a bridge of trust and respect with these naturally reticent men. He also developed a front-lines perspective on selling strategies, using this knowledge in affecting the attitudes of management. His ideas were also readily accepted by others in sales due to their recognition of his practical experience. His articulation of sales force needs led to its rapid growth and the ensuing growth of sales. It was natural that he became sales manager for Schaeffer. In 2006, he ascended to the presidency of a company which, having started in 1839 in the soap and candle business, would soon reach an international status in commercial lubricants and become a leading private label supplier for Shell Oil. Jay broadened management expertise by bringing in outside directors. He was instrumental in the initiation of a new enterprise software system and a new plant. Company sales his first year reached $53 million, $90 million in 2011, with projections of $150 million by 2015. Jay has also been a community leader in St. Louis, instrumental in giving new life to Old Newsboys Day. When the newspaper, which was the backbone product for this charitable event, went out of business, Jay found a new print sponsor. As a consequence, thousands of volunteers would still go on the streets one day each November to sell newspapers with the proceeds going to children's charities. Jay's major contribution to Xi Xi was bringing his management abilities and knowledge of strategic thinking to the House Corporation during his tenure as president. He continues an active role in this regard. TWO XI XIS HONORED AS SIGNIFICANT SIGS I t's rare that two alumni from the same chapter achieve Significant Sig status at the same time. As will become evident when you read of their achievements, both are highly deserving of the recognition due to their vision and aggressive embracement of business growth. T homas M. Scott '58, Ph.D., is the retired president and CEO of Insurance Management Corporation. Tom, who graduated from the university with a football scholarship, has been a leader in the commercial insurance industry for more than 40 years. Tom formed the Insurance Management Corporation in 1983 with a staff of eight. Today the group has more than 150 associates with six operating divisions. In 1985, he was recognized as National Risk Manager of the Year. Among his achievements are the creation of an alternative to workmen's compensation coverage for long-haul truck drivers, which saved the group several million dollars a year. He also developed risk management programs for five of the six largest day care operations in the country. In 1995, he led his company and its subsidiaries in a merger with the sixth largest insurance broker in the world. His versatility and enterprising nature is exhibited in his ownership of an art supply business, where he went to work when he was 12. He also has been a managing partner of one of the largest dairy herds in Kansas. Tom's contribution of energy and financial backing to a number of university and Kansas City-based entities is more than considerable. Besides endowing an oncology program at the School of Veterinary Medicine, he is a member of the Jefferson Club, Ellis Foundation, and Davenport Society, and is past chairman of an endowment campaign for the vet school. He has served in leadership positions with the United Way, Saint Luke's Hospital Foundation, Midwest Diabetes Coalition, Kansas City Symphony, and the Junior Chamber of Commerce. Space simply doesn't allow for a full review of his achievements. It is most appropriate that he and his wife were recognized as Philanthropists of the Year in 2013 by Non-Profit Connect in Kansas City. He also has received a doctorate of human letters and Distinguished Alumni Award from the university. Becoming a Significant Sig can be recognized as another appropriate life step for Tom. S igma Chi was proud to welcome 37 new members and their parents on August 9 at the Chapter House to participate in our annual New Member Orientation. The one-hour orientation was hosted by a panel of alumni, Chapter officers, and Greek life representatives. Information was provided and questions were answered regarding dues, our no-hazing policy, meals, house rules, the eight-week pledge program, Chapter events, scholarship program, academics, philanthropies, Mothers Club, and Greek life. House tours were conducted by current members and lunch was provided by College Chefs. Xi Xi prides itself on education and support not only for members, but for parents as well, with full transparency in all Chapter-related issues. Parents are always encouraged to join groups, ask questions, and to express concerns and contact any Chapter officers, alumni, board members, or the house director when they arise. As always, our goal is to make the fraternity experience productive, safe and supportive. The orientation is the first step for parents and new members to achieve that goal. Chapter Provides Transparency through New Member Orientation The new members learned more about Sigma Chi from a panel of alumni, Chapter officers, and Greek Life representatives at the New Member Orientation in August.

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