Sigma Phi Epsilon - University of Cincinnati

Page 3 L ooking back on his career success, Mike Taney '91 credits Sigma Phi Epsilon with helping him become an effective leader and communicator. His home on campus at the chapter house became a place to grow while making valued connections that remain a cornerstone of his life today. Fraternal Leadership Mike's incredible pledge class was a major point of pride for him, and he appreciated the sense of belonging that older brothers cultivated when providing guidance through college. Living in the top floor of the old house, "the Artie," with three brothers led to lifelong friendships and great memories, especially when they built a bar with a large fish tank. "We have so many great stories from our time in that room…" During his third year in college, Mike was elected Ohio Theta Chapter president and had his first experience leading a team toward a common goal. The alumni committee helped keep him and other undergraduate officers on track for progress, and Mike's presidency opened new doors in the form of various campus leadership positions. "I learned how to give back to a university which has given me so much. I would not have had the career I did without UC or SigEp." Career Ventures Just before graduation, Mike received a project manager position offer for Procter & Gamble to work in their real estate/facilities group. He became responsible for managing a team of 25 technicians, all mostly in their 50s. "In our first meeting, I was told I was a kid who didn't know anything, and the team got up and walked out. My leadership experience at SigEp helped provide the skill set to manage these individuals with respect and be recognized as one of their best managers during that time." Following work at P&G locations throughout Cincinnati, Mike was promoted twice and eventually ran the division's recruitment program. Ten years in, he relocated to Costa Rica with his family to take a country site facilities manager and regional IT call center manager role. "I then moved into finance, owning a $5 billion spending pool and doing brand financial analysis on the fabric care brands. I was then asked to move into Human Resources, a career path I would have never thought of." Mike's work ethic led to further success in various management positions. He now works for Duracell, which he helped divest from Procter & Gamble to Berkshire Hathaway, as the company's chief HR officer. Mike encourages today's undergraduates to maintain a similar passion for career success while building a career network, especially within SigEp. SigEp Connections Decades beyond college, Mike is grateful to retain several fraternity connections on a social and professional level. Many of his good friends are alumni, and he remembers Dave Jaberg '91 generously showing his family around Chicago neighborhoods when they were new to the area. Mike also enjoys attending alumni golf outings when possible. "After graduating, I was treasurer of the alumni board, but I retired once I moved to Costa Rica. I'm amazed by the commitment of the people on this board all these years. Do whatever you can to support this team; I wish I could have done more." Mike and his wife, Amy, have six children, four of whom are already working in careers that match their passions. Amy was an Alpha Chi Omega at UC, and they married within one year of graduation. "It was in March, the year UC basketball made it to the final four. We were on a cruise ship—not my best planning!" Supported by the Brotherhood Mike Taney '91 Shares SigEp Memories, Career Wisdom "Start a career, seek out great mentors, focus on your core key priorities where you can make an impact, and work hard to achieve high results." You can connect with Mike at taney.m@duracell.com. Your Impact, Our Future Giving Back to Ohio Theta O ur bond as SigEp brothers extends beyond our undergraduate years. The experiences and values we gained at Ohio Theta Chapter shaped who we are, and giving back ensures that future generations of brothers will benefit as we did. There are many ways to support Ohio Theta, allowing you to contribute at a level that fits your time and commitment. Ways to Give Back DONATIONS: These support scholarships, leadership programs, and chapter operations. They directly benefit the chapter and are tax deductible. You can make a gift at tinyurl.com/GiveSigEpOhioTheta. VOLUNTEERING: Mentor, advise, or assist with alumni initiatives. We are always looking for volunteer support within our AVC. Submit your interest form at sigep.org/about/get-involved/volunteer. CAREER COACHING: Offer guidance, networking, or share your career journey with current undergraduates. Submit your interest form at tinyurl.com/sigep-career-coaching. STAYING CONNECTED: Attend alumni events, reunions, or virtual meetups. Every act of support strengthens our brotherhood and preserves Ohio Theta's legacy. Get involved today and make a lasting impact!

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