Theta Chi - University of Florida

PAGE 2 TAU TOPICS L ast summer, Rodney G.B. Clements '92, along with his Big Brother, Harry "Skip" Cotthaus IV '90, celebrated their 25th mile- stone anniversary as Big and Little by hiking to the Mt. Everest base camp. With the support of Theta Chi Brothers such as Rich Delia '94, Brian Carey '93, and Skip, Rodney G.B. has been able to celebrate many similar life accom- plishments. "If it were not for Theta Chi or my Brothers then I would not have taken that initial step backpacking across Europe and around the world. And because of this I am now at 55 coun- tries and counting." One of the first milestones Rodney G.B. expe- rienced with his Tau Brothers occurred with his pledge class, which was the largest pledge class recruited by Theta Chi at the time. The next few years were filled with one accomplishment af- ter another as Rodney G.B. was elected Chap- ter president and accepted Tau's first of many Altar Awards. "I was lucky to experience such a strong turning point in our Chapter's history. We became known for our leadership ability, academic standards, and affinity for sports. Ev- eryone knows Fall 1992 was the turning point." Despite many memorable moments, Rodney G.B.'s favorite is linked to the Hope for the Hol- idays and Over the Top philanthropy events. The former collected toys for local children, while the latter raised money through an arm wrestling tournament. In its first year, Over the Top raised more than $20,000. Although the Chapter no longer hosts Over the Top, Rodney G.B. is proud about how the current members carry on Tau's tradition of excellence. "From the time I graduated to now, Theta Chi definitely became a strong player on campus. It was a great training ground for interview skills, managing groups, and learning how to lead." Rodney G.B. Clements '92 Inspired to Travel by Theta Chi Brothers "If it were not for Theta Chi or my Brothers then I would not have taken that initial step backpacking across Europe and around the world. And because of this I am now at 55 countries and counting." A round t he W orl d and Back A ga i n Rodney G.B. is constantly inspired by his un- dergraduate and alumni Brothers alike such as Rich, Joshua Weingard '91, Jason Brodeur '93, Ron O'Neal '92, Erik Gruber '91, How- ard Saft '92, and many others. They serve as his motivation to keep pursuing his goals while stay- ing true to Theta Chi's values. "I try to uphold Truth, Temperance, and Tolerance in my daily life and I'm so thankful to my Brothers who lead this initiative by example." While Rodney G.B. enjoys remaining involved with Tau, he challenges more alumni to take an opportunity to do the same. Whether they are cheering on the Gators or just passing through Gainesville, they should take time to stop by the Chapter House. Rodney G.B. is even consider- ing planning a reunion for the Brothers of the 1990s to reconnect. "I never feel unwelcome when I visit the alumni room because the Chap- ter is comprised of great men who are intelligent and kind." These qualities are unique to Tau Chapter mem- bers, including Rodney G.B. After his career with the military and as an ER nurse, he began his own home-infusion therapy business. He also co-founded the Florida Africa Foundation (flori- daafrica.org) with Lori Spivey, which provides various consulting business services and entre- preneurial assistance in the healthcare field in sub-Saharan Africa. Rodney G.B. still frequently travels but calls Jacksonville, FL, home. He can be reached at oxrodox@hotmail.com. How Can You Influence Tau Chapter? (Continued from page 1) and friendships into my current role as an ex- ecutive for my company. I don't believe I would have had the same success if it weren't for my experiences with Theta Chi." Even current members carry themselves with a certain charisma and confidence. Maintaining this tradition has become a source of pride for Jake and instrumental to his career path. "The fraternity has helped me identify, establish a net- work for, and obtain advice on my dual passions of entrepreneurship and law. Theta Chi seeded a network for me that ultimately expanded and allowed me to find a job I love." Jake encourages undergraduates to find these re- lationships that will carry them through the rest of their lives. "The friends and memories you make now will stay with you for a long time and will provide you with a sense of fulfillment." Yet, the same advice can help alumni reconnect with Tau Chapter and provide them with the same sense of fulfillment. "It's not unusual to lose touch with the fraternity as you get older and your priorities in life change. I'd say it's never too late to reconnect." One way alumni can achieve this is by joining the Realty Board as they are always looking for volunteers to help with outreach and planning. "As a young alumnus, I served on the housing campaign committee and later joined the board. The most important thing you can do is stay in touch with your brothers." Rodney Clements '92 (left) and Skip Cotthaus '91 hike to Mt. Everest's base camp.

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