Sigma Chi - University of Mississippi

2 B efore serving in the Mississippi Attorney General's Office and before his term as Associated Student Body President at Ole Miss, Gregory Alston '14 became a brother of Sigma Chi. That successful presidency, which shaped Gregory's career of leadership, would not have been possible without the backing of his brothers. AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE Gregory wasn't sure which fraternity to choose in the beginning, but the members he met at the Eta Chapter quickly made his choice easy. None of his high school friends chose Sigma Chi with him, which made the quality of the brothers even more important. "We didn't have the nicest or largest house, but we had the best guys on campus," he said. Gregory's pledge class was also the largest in Sigma Chi history (nationwide, not just for Eta Chapter), which prompted an unforgettable visit from the Grand Consul. "Sigma Chi taught me the importance of getting to know the people around you on a personal basis." Gregory felt truly valued by his new brothers, seeing time and again how they respected one another's viewpoints and were always there to support one another. It was also through Sigma Chi and a Chi Omega date party that Gregory met his wonderful wife, Ann Ferrell. "Her father was a Sigma Chi who passed away when she was young, but many of my brothers' fathers were friends with him; that was special to me," he said. When Gregory ran for ASB President, Eta Chapter rallied behind him with members, staff, and advisors supporting his campaign in numerous ways. "Being a student leader at Ole Miss taught me how to stand up for what I believe in while also working with all different kinds of people who may have different viewpoints," he added. "I led with integrity and respect, learning how to achieve results and work with both sides of the aisle." LEARNING TO LEAD Continuing his Ole Miss studies after graduating from the Trent Lott Leadership Institute, Gregory attended the University of Mississippi School of Law (where he was again elected Student Body President) to hone the skills for his career goals. "For me, that was possibly working in a government position, serving our state, and seeing where God takes me." Gregory's interest in government and politics ignited as a college freshman when he worked the first of many more paid campaign positions and learned about politics at the grassroots level. Gregory is now the Deputy Director of the Policy division for Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, leading her office's legislative policy team. Gregory is honored to have called A.G. Fitch a mentor since his college years. "Under her leadership, we have been instrumental in passing laws to strengthen the state's fight against human trafficking, child exploitation, and abuse of vulnerable persons," Gregory explained. "Having a direct role in this and other crucial legislation has been very rewarding and unique. I am passionate about serving our state and country and look forward to continuing that service through the Attorney General's Office and beyond." PRESERVING THE BONDS No minute in this life is guaranteed, and Gregory spends as much of it as possible keeping up with his Sigma Chi friends through weddings and tailgates, fishing trips, or simply picking up the phone. He was reminded of that importance earlier this year when he learned of the passing of John Bartley Boykin '15, a dear friend who supported his ASB campaign and was a groomsman in his wedding. "I never imagined I would be standing as a pallbearer at John Bartley's funeral before I got "Being a student leader at Ole Miss taught me how to stand up for what I believe in while also working with all different kinds of people who may have different viewpoints." Gregory Alston '14 Shares His Path to Leadership WITH INTEGRITY AND RESPECT During election night, February 13, 2013, Gregory Alston '14 celebrates with the men of Eta Chapter. to stand alongside him as he married a girl with whom he'd spend the rest of his life—but it is all up to God's plan and what he has in store for us," Gregory said. Beyond religiously attending Ole Miss football and baseball games, Gregory loves spending time on the water, fishing, and with friends and family, including his wife and their Goldendoodle, Charley. Gregory and Ann Ferrell welcomed their first child, a baby girl, in April, and they are so excited to introduce her to all their favorite things in life. "Sigma Chi taught me how to be a leader and to put others before myself, and I live with that passion every day in my service to the state." Gregory lives in Jackson, Mississippi, and can be reached at gjalston1022@gmail.com.

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