Theta Chi - Iowa State University

Kurt Tjaden Preserves His Local Roots B asketball fans are well-aware of "Hilton Magic" in Ames, but Kurt Tjaden '85 likes to think we have something more than that: what he likes to call "Iowa State Magic" Kurt and his wife, Kristyn (whom he met at ISU), remain heavily involved with university boards and events as alumni— and with Theta Chi, in Kurt's case Both have enjoyed lifelong friendships through Iowa State while meeting even more Cyclones through the years "Those friends and connections are what make these institutions—and Ames—so special," Kurt said It's also why he chose to step up as chairman of the Inspiring the Next Century of Excellence campaign "This campaign is a transformational opportunity for Alpha Mu for future generations of Theta Chis and a chance for me to give something back to a place that has given me so much I would encourage all of our alumni to contribute to this campaign with their time, talent, or treasure" From Kurt's first visit to the Alpha Mu house, it was clear the brothers were his type of people: down-to-earth young men who were also great role models Being part of something bigger, with brothers pushing him to do his best and pursue leadership opportunities (such as chapter treasurer and organizations on campus like the Student Alumni Association), truly enhanced his ISU experience and professional path His favorite memories are the simple ones of spending time with brothers at the house, parties, or athletic events After a career of travel and working with outstanding people, Kurt strengthened his already-deep roots in Ames He had guest lectured at Iowa State's Ivy College of Business for years, now becoming a part- time professor there upon retirement Kurt and Kristyn also maintain a home in Ames, about a two-minute walk from the entrance to Jack Trice Stadium—perfect for tailgates with friends and family "From our family's perspective, it's one of the best things we've ever done," Kurt said of the house Three of their five children attended Iowa State (the third and youngest being a junior this year), and the other two are passionate fans Between ISU athletic events, Kurt's teaching job, and their ISU leadership commitments, it's been an excellent home base in the community they love When not busy with volunteer and board work, Kurt and Kristyn can be found spending time with the family or enjoying ISU athletic events You can reach Kurt at kurtatjaden@gmailcom THE TOMAHAWK Alpha Mu Chapter 4 A s undergraduates joining Theta Chi, we were told that this brotherhood is for life The generosity of our alumni proves that these words were not empty. Many brothers from different eras of Alpha Mu Chapter have come forth and given back to the chapter Many have donated without knowing any undergraduates personally but knowing the ideals we share It takes a special kind of person to donate to people they do not know simply out of their kindness and their fond memories of a college experience Our gratitude as a chapter cannot be overstated College has become more expensive than ever, and having this strong of a network to help support us through our education is no small matter It allows us time to get involved in the chapter and on campus, pursuing passions as well as our future careers For this, we would like to say thank you, and we hope to help build upon what you have started once we, too, become alumni A Statement on Our Inspiring the Next Century of Excellence Campaign from Our Undergraduate Brothers FOR THE LOVE OF AMES FOR THE LOVE OF AMES From left: Jeff Haas '85, Jon Fleming '75, AJ Tjaden '17, Kurt Tjaden '85, and Dave Rush '85.

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