Gamma Rho Chapter of Alpha Tau Omega at the University of Missouri
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1537195
2 ALPHA TAU OMEGA G amma Rho Chapter wrapped up a successful spring 2025 semester marked by academic achievement, impactful philanthropy, and strengthened brotherhood. NEW MEMBERS AND ACADEMIC MOMENTUM The semester began on a high note with the official initiation of 42 members from the fall 2024 pledge class. This significant addition continues to build on the Chapter's legacy of excellence and involvement. Academically, the spring class of 2025 finished with a commendable 3.28 cumulative GPA. PHILANTHROPY WITH PURPOSE Gamma Rho made a meaningful impact through several major philanthropic initiatives. On February 7, the Chapter hosted its annual ATO vs. Beta Theta Pi hockey game, raising an impressive $11,000 for the BeStrong29 Foundation, which supports individuals with spinal cord injuries and disabilities. The event drew over 300 attendees and was a resounding success. Later in the semester, ATO hosted its signature spring event in honor of Mark McIntosh '24, a recent kidney transplant recipient. The fundraiser benefited the Drive for Five Foundation and included a golf tournament at A.L. Gustin Golf Course, followed by a silent auction and social hour at Harpo's Bar & Grill. Participants included 19 teams of alumni and undergraduate members, thanks to excellent coordination by Signature Event Officers Wyatt Oliver '24 and Arthur Hans '24. The Chapter also took part in the second annual OCRA Ryder Cup, a philanthropic golf competition against Delta Tau Delta that raised funds for the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. ENGAGED ON CAMPUS ATO remained actively involved in the Greek community through a successful Greek Week partnership with Delta Gamma and Alpha Sigma Phi. Members participated in a variety of events, including a blood drive, canned food collection, sporting competitions, and a skit and dance performance. W H AT ' S N E W W I T H AT O ? W H AT ' S N E W W I T H AT O ? Undergraduates Share Spring Success Paul L. Riekhof '59 was drafted and served in Vietnam after attending medical school at Mizzou. He married a Kappa, Julie, and has seven children and 26 grandchildren. Paul practiced as an OBGYN and delivered many babies. He still remembers the great days at Mizzou and his fond memories of the ATOs from his home in Prairie Village, Kan. Email: priekgolf@gmail.com Allyn B. Lockwood '69 shared, "After graduating in 1972, I worked in the manufacturing sector, Supply Chain, for 38 years. I retired in 2016, and since then, I have cared for my parents and my aunt. I am also volunteering at a foster care home to help refugees from abroad transition to their new life in my hometown of Denver, Colorado." Allyn has three children and two grandchildren. Email: abrucelockwood@gmail.com Alumni News The graduating class of 2025 gathers for a photo on the front steps of the house after their last chapter meeting. Brett Zimmer '21 gets ready for the BeStrong29 foundation hockey game vs. Beta Theta Pi. The fall 2024 class gathers in the Great Hall on the morning of their initiation. BROTHERHOOD IN FULL SWING The Chapter also prioritized internal bonds through memorable brotherhood events. Mom's Weekend was a highlight, featuring a social gathering at The Kitchen, a popular pickleball venue, and a brunch at the ATO house accompanied by live music from the Bowline Brothers. Special thanks go to Sam Stegall '24 and Luke Johnson '24 for organizing a warm and welcoming weekend. The semester concluded with a well-attended semi- formal at the Lake of the Ozarks. LOOKING AHEAD Excitement is already building for fall 2025. In celebration of Homecoming Weekend, ATO will host an alumni and family gathering at Harpo's Bar & Grill on the evening of Friday, September 26. Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of reconnecting and celebrating the spirit of Gamma Rho! Thank you for your continued support, Jimmy Welsh '23 Chapter President