Delta Tau Delta - University of Kansas

Delta Tau Delta page 2 T he Delta Tau Delta journey began for Charlie Ameen '91 when he felt an immediate connection with the Brothers during recruitment. "The members I met fit my personality," he recalled. The Fraternity's structure eased his transition into college life in both his studies and social aspects. After becoming a member, Charlie was proud of Gamma Tau Chapter's sense of camaraderie. "It was a bunch of good people that always helped each other out," he said. The Fraternity wasn't just about fun; the members excelled in academics and intramural sports and constantly supported one another. "There was always someone willing to give a Brother a hand if needed." Some of Charlie's favorite memories include hosting friends and family at the Shelter. "Football Saturdays, when family came to Lawrence to tailgate, were unforgettable," he shared. The house was also known for hosting some of the best parties on campus, but beyond the fun, it was a place of mutual support. "If I was struggling with school or life, there was always someone willing to help." Charlie graduated with a bachelor's degree in communications. After college, he owned and operated SKC Communications with his siblings. "We sold the business a couple of years ago, and now I'm enjoying spending more time with my family," he shared. Today, he is involved in real estate and private equity and shared that DTD helped prepare him for the challenges of post-college life. The motivation to stay engaged with Gamma Tau is driven by Charlie's desire to ensure future generations experience the same support he did. "If an 18-year-old goes to college without that support group, it would be more difficult to navigate," he explained. "I want young men to have the same opportunity to build relationships and find direction as I did." Gamma Tau continues to shape Charlie's life today. "The direction the house provided at the beginning of my college path got me off to a great start," he said. The relationships he formed with his Fraternity Brothers continue to have a lasting impact. "The people I met in DTD were positive influences, and I can lean on them to this day." Charlie stays connected through regular meetups, including a 30-year reunion in the spring. Last year, a group of them reunited for the KU/MU basketball game. "I looked around the table and was blown away by everyone's success, and I can't help but think DTD played a key part in that." For current undergraduates, Charlie's advice is simple: "Take advantage of this time in your life—it goes by quickly. Get involved and build as many relationships as you can. They'll remain a part of your life going forward." Charlie lives in Leawood, Kansas, with his wife, Tara, and their four daughters: Bridget (15), Margaret (14), Cecelia (13), and Charlotte (10). In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, playing tennis, traveling, and watching his daughters play sports. He's also a big fan of the Jayhawks, Chiefs, and local sports teams. If you'd like to contact Charlie, you can send him an email at cammeen1@gmail.com. The Power of BroTherhood Charlie Ameen '91 Talks Delta Tau Deta Connections Alumni News Paul N. Ericson '42 resides in Lawrence, Kan., and is 100 years old. He survived the Battle of the Bulge and met "Nuts" McAuliffe. Paul also worked for two architectural firms. Email: paulne@sunflower.com Bill G. Rinehart '49 shares that at age 93, he spends a lot of time just trying to stay alive, but he's enjoying life. His vital signs remain good. He still holds his own at the pool table and visits the gym at Montereau Retirement Village in Tulsa, Okla., every day. Email: wgrjr98@aol.com Kelly Rankin '59 was inducted into the Clay Center High School Hall of Fame 2020. On October 13, 2024, he was inducted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame. He resides in Vancouver, Wash. Email: jnkrankin@aol.com Ronald Tucker '61 works with American Airlines as a flight crew training instructor in the Airbus 320/319/321 aircraft. He lives in Ft. Worth, Texas, and has a home in Union, Ky. "Children are grown, gone, and paid for. Empty nesters living the dream." What are some of your favorite Delt memories? "Photographer for Keltz, song leader." – Paul N. Ericson "Had fun at paddle parties. Met the girl who became my wife at an hour dance with Chi Omegas." –Bill G. Rinehart '49 "One of many, many memories: one football season, a few Brothers and I loaded my car with the 'Jayhawk Mascot' (which was always Gamma Tau's responsibility to represent KU's 'fighting spirit' as long as I was there). It was very well-portrayed and worn by Brother John McArtor. We were able to drive and park right onto the sidelines of the largest football stadium in the 'Big 8,' Nebraska. We watched the game on the field. Unfortunately, they beat us, as usual, even though Gale Sayers performed his magic for the Jayhawks in his home state; the Huskers never forgave him for playing for the Jayhawks. We were still bound to have a good time in Lincoln though, but we couldn't find a good college bar that met the Gamma Tau standards." –G. Michael Elmore '61 "Being a head cheerleader and football games; Homecoming." –Ronald Tucker '61 "Recruitment weeks. Friday house clean- ups prior to football games. Orange Bowl vs. Penn State." –Fred Abbott '67 "Daily shenanigans, parties, intramural sports." –W. Matthew Gillispie '93

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