Delta Tau Delta - Butler University

DELTA TAU DELTA Page 2 To donate, please visit www.butlerdelts.com. Embracing the Beta Zeta Experience David Wachter '89 Thanks Chapter for Valuable Life Lessons EXPANDING THE LEGACY Matt Perkins '04 Notes Impact of the Beta Zeta Brotherhood B eginning his college journey more than 700 miles from home, David Wachter '89 entered his first year of college not knowing a single person. However, he knew participating in recruitment would not only build his network, but also offer him a community of support. "Looking back, I was barely scratching the surface of what Beta Zeta would give to me. Out of all of the organizations I belonged to as an undergraduate, the pride I had for my brothers, the chapter, and international Fraternity was immense." David first recognized his deep appreciation for the chapter when upperclassmen returned from the 1986 Northern Division Conference carrying the Hugh Shields award. "To know that the brothers before me worked so diligently to live up to the fraternity's expectations, and to be named as one of its top 10 chapters, prompted me to run for chapter president to continue the tradition." After taking on his new role, David carried the tradition of excellence by leading the chapter to win another Hugh Shields award in 1988. Looking back on this experience, David encourages undergraduate members to fully embrace everything Beta Zeta, the Fraternity, and their brothers have to offer. "If you fully embrace your experience as an undergraduate and alumnus, you will make the distinction for the rest of your life that you are a Delt, not that you simply were one." Keeping this in mind, David strives to remember the Fraternity's teachings daily and encourages alumni to visit the chapter and reconnect through social media. "In order to be committed to a life of excellence, I look to the values of truth, courage, faith, and power. Delta Tau Delta taught me that no matter what I'm doing, if I'm not fully committed, I won't achieve excellence." David is married, living in New York City, and is the president of Jimmy Jazz Direct, which is a specialty sneaker and clothing retailer. The Super Bowl is one of his favorite events to reconnect with brothers, to share stories, and to make new memories. However, he encourages any brother to contact him either through Facebook or his email at wachter1@aol.com. "If you fully embrace your experience as an undergraduate and alumnus, you will make the distinction for the rest of your life that you are a Delt, not that you simply were one." "Whether you're just starting your college years or have long-since graduated, you set the precedent for what follows in the chapter, no matter how big or small those decisions may be." F or Matt Perkins '04, joining Beta Zeta provided him with lifelong friendships and instilled a strong understanding of community. Establishing and expanding on the principles of Delta Tau Delta was fundamental during recruitment, but became even more clear during his pledgeship. "All of a sudden, I was connected to a group of like-minded friends that knew we could make a difference by being part of this organization. Ultimately, we were part of something much bigger than ourselves." Today, the chapter still values the unique individuals that create such a strong brotherhood. Matt fondly recalls witnessing the Delt brotherhood in action when he worked for the Delta Tau Delta Foundation. One alumnus from a different chapter took the time to provide Matt with career advice and even an interview with one of his companies. "Connections aren't just from your chapter or undergraduate experience. New ones can be formed with your brothers across the nation because we're unified in similar values and principles." Matt encourages undergraduates and alumni alike to not take their relationships for granted. Many will remain strong years later as long as one puts forth the effort. Today, Matt enjoys reconnecting with his brothers nationwide with camping trips to a national park or road trips visiting another brother. "The more you're engaged, the more you remind yourself of how crucial Beta Zeta has been in your life." Overall, Matt is proud of the legacy his brothers have collectively left behind and hopes undergraduates have expanded upon and improved this legacy. "Whether you're just starting your college years or have long since graduated, you set the precedent for what follows in the chapter, no matter how big or small those decisions may be." Reestablishing bonds to the lifelong brotherhood is as easy as making a phone call, staying up to date with the chapter on social media, or visiting campus. As an active participant, brothers can ensure the legacy of community and lives committed to excellence for future generations. Matt is the vice president for Beta Zeta's House Corporation Board and is a global brand manager for Elanco Animal Health, a division of Eli Lilly & Company. He can be reached at mperkins03@gmail.com.

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