Tau Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity at the University of Florida
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/652305
THETA CHI PAGE 3 F or 100 years, Theta Chi has offered a place for young men at the University of Florida to learn and grow. It has fostered dependability, commitment, and leadership in members past and present. But for Matt T. Marshall '95, the fraternity's biggest benefit has been creating lasting friendship and brotherhood among its members. When Matt first sought to join a fraternity, it was simply part of the college experience. As he got to know the men of Theta Chi, though, he realized it was an opportunity to join an organization that shared his values and priorities. "Being a member of Tau Chapter helped me understand the importance of loyalty, dedication, and the willingness to extend a helping hand." He also found that being a member of the fraternity could impact his future goals and accomplishments. "The leadership skills and opportunities I had through Theta Chi were paramount in launching my career and setting me up for success." Upon graduation, Matt was selected to work for Procter and Gamble, a company that, for three semesters in a row, had hired only Theta Chi members from the pool of applicants. Now, as an alumnus, Matt still finds Theta Chi to be a significant part of his life. "Even after 18 years, I feel a strong connection and camaraderie with Tau Chapter," shares Matt. "If I haven't seen someone in many years, we can pick up right where we left off." Currently, he serves as treasurer for the Realty Board and worked on Tau's recent capital campaign. With the Centennial Celebration this Fall, Matt encourages alumni to contact the Realty Board to get involved. "I feel strongly that alumni engagement and connection is critical to maintaining the long-term stability and vibrancy of our Chapter." Matt and his wife, Amanda, live in Tampa, Florida, where he works for Hospital Corp. of America. They have two children: Warner (5) and Sullivan (3). If you would like to get involved with the Centennial Celebration, or simply want to reconnect with Theta Chi, you can reach out to Matt at mtm1710@yahoo.com. Tau Members Active in Dance Marathon to Benefit Children's Hospital D ance Marathon is a nationwide movement during which students spend a year raising funds and gathering awareness for children and families experiencing pediatric illness. The year culminates with an event where students stay on their feet through dancing, games, entertainment, and interaction with patients and families in symbolic support of children served by their local Children's Miracle Network hospital. The money raised not only goes toward research and medical equipment, but also to patient care; it provides items including beds for the parents to rest or toys for the children going through treatments. Theta Chi has always been actively involved in Dance Marathon, but in recent years we have increased our presence in this organization. We wanted to take this opportunity to introduce to you just a few of our members who are active in the Theta Chi team. Brad Wheeler '12 is a senior mechanical engineering major. Dance Marathon has impacted his life since he became a dancer his freshman year. He has been an operations captain for two years and is now the operations overall director for Dance Marathon 2016. "I have seen first-hand how Dance Marathon impacts the lives of the Miracle Children and their families. The huge smiles on the childrens' faces and the constant thank-yous from the parents are why I continue to participate." Bobby Finigan '12 is a senior studying finance and information systems. This is his second year as an operations captain for Dance Marathon. Before being selected as a captain, he was a staff member, dancer, and delegate for this wonderful organization. He became involved because he wanted to make a difference in the lives of the many children who visit Shands Hospital. "Every person and every dollar counts and can change lives." Patrick Tully '13 is in his third year of being involved with Dance Marathon and is now serving as an operations captain. After his freshman year, he was convinced that it was a cause he wanted to get involved with. Serving as a dancer buddy that year, he was able to learn first-hand what the children were going through. Shane Hanney '14 is serving as a captain for Dance Marathon. Shane got involved with Dance Marathon because his best friend growing up was treated at Shand's Hospital. Shane saw Celebrating the Theta Chi Brotherhood Why Matt T. Marshall '95 Remains Involved how this affected him as a friend and teammate and that has motivated him to do anything he can to help children in the same situation. We would all truly appreciate anything that you would be willing to donate, and would be thankful for your support of us, our Chapter, and the wonderful organization that is Dance Marathon. To donate to any of the participants, visit www.events.dancemarathon.com and search for their names. Alumni, donate to Dance Marathon at www.events.dancemarathon.com.