Pi Kappa Alpha - University of Texas

DR. JAY A. MESSER '08 FACES GLOBAL PANDEMIC D r. Jay is almost in his final year of radiation oncology residency training at e University of Texas Medical Branch. Since cancer treatment was deemed critical, he has continued to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Times are very different for Dr. Jay and staff. Patients and staff have their temperature checked every morning before entering the building, screened for symptoms, and have to wear a mask throughout the day. "We realize that COVID-19 is a huge stress on society and are trying to protect our cancer patients from getting the virus," Dr. Jay said. "We cannot stop treating their cancer, because usually that poses a greater risk to their health." Dr. Jay has started rotating at the TDCJ prison hospital where prisoners from all over Texas are bused down to Galveston for cancer treatment. "e prisoners are at an especially great risk to the virus since they are in enclosed spaces, so there have been a lot of delays in getting their treatment due to lockdowns at different prisons," shared Dr. Jay. While some is out of their control, Dr. Jay and fellow healthcare workers are doing their best to keep patients safe in this chaotic time. We thank him and countless more for their bravery and hard work. www.texaspike.com 4 D espite generations between them, Jay "Big Jay" Messer '69 and his son, Dr. Jay A. Messer '08, share the brotherhood of Pi Kappa Alpha and similar memories with their Pike brothers. Both recall the exciting events leading up to football games and OU weekend. Big Jay especially remembers his initiation and witnessing Dr. Jay's initiation as he carried on the Pike legacy. At first, Dr. Jay was uncertain about joining a fraternity at all. "I didn't know if I could handle focusing on grades and joining a fraternity, but Conner Mowles '07 convinced me that we would have ample study time and it would be worth it," said Dr. Jay. "I am so glad I joined, because it helped me realize life isn't all about work. It is important to also prioritize family and friends." Big Jay helped prove this as Dr. Jay saw the true bond of brotherhood growing up. Big Jay has an annual dove hunt group of his Pike brothers going on 30 years now. "Without a doubt, Pike influenced my personal and business life by the relationships I was able to make, which only happened by being a Pike," Big Jay said. "I hope to continue the legacy of lifelong friends from Pike just like my dad," said Dr. Jay. He indeed has, as four of his groomsmen were Pike brothers when he married his Pike sweetheart, Alison, also a physician, who is a dermatology resident in Houston. He also enjoys the Annual Manual fishing trip that is filled with multiple generations of Pikes. But Pike offered them more than lifelong friendships. It led to growth and a solid foundation for the future. "Beta Mu helped me gain confidence and maturity, and offered many opportunities I would never have had," said Big Jay. He paid it forward as chapter advisor for 10 years and served on the Alumni Board for eight. Since graduation, Jay has worked in insurance and financial planning, advising countless clients in an almost 50-year career. For Dr. Jay, the brotherhood made him stronger and well-rounded in his career path. "In my field, a lot of people are work focused, but I stand out because I form better social relationships with my patients, coworkers, and staff. is has benefited me greatly so far. Pike has made me a better Texan and American," said Dr. Jay. ese reasons, and a deep passion for e University of Texas, led both men to donate to Beta Mu's house campaign. "I donated so that Pike can remain one of the best fraternities on campus, and having a new house is mandatory if we want to attract the most outstanding prospective new members," said Big Jay. "I want to continue the legacy of Pike for future generations. I have seen how it can help people's careers, but more importantly, success in terms of friendships, family, and being a good citizen," said Dr. Jay. You can reach out to Big Jay at jmesser@pfinancial.com and Dr. Jay at jayamesser@gmail.com to learn how you can join them in the future of Pike. AN ENDURING BROTHERHOOD Jay Messer '69 and Dr. Jay A. Messer '08 Reflect on eir Pike Legacy Jay "Big Jay" Messer '69 and his son, Dr. Jay A. Messer '08. The Pike Dove Hunt has been an annual event for over 25 years! This year's hunt was held in Carrizo Springs, Texas, at the Casa Monte Lodge. The hunters in the picture are Lindsey Thompson '68, Breck Bostwick '70, Jay Messer '69, Chris Jones '71, Kirk Tate '72 (hunt coordinator), Kory Tate, Bradley Hudson, Frank Alexander '70, DDS, Ryan Jones, Steve Hudson '76 and Trey Jones.

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