vo l u n t e e r
USING BETA LESSONS EVERY DAY “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, the responsibility to initiate trust falls on those with more maturity.” ~ John Wooden, Purdue ’32
Robert Tigner Chapter Counselor, Truman State Zeta Xi Chapter
Professional:
Associate Professor and Chairman, Department of Psychology – Truman State University
Alma Maters:
Hanover College Ohio State University
Degrees:
B.A. in Psychology M.A. and PH.D. in Cognitive/ Experimental Psychology
Hobbies:
Woodworking, XBOX360
Much of the success in my career can be traced back to one important decision Beta Theta Pi made more than a decade ago: to embrace and welcome non-initiated volunteers. This policy of inclusiveness has allowed me to participate in Beta’s fantastic summer leadership programs, and has led me to new and dear friends all over North America. There is something very special and infectious about that legendary Beta spirit. I have been an avid supporter of Beta Theta Pi for 13 years, volunteering as the chapter counselor for Truman State University, and as a facilitator in Beta’s outstanding leadership programs. While I hope my support has benefited the Fraternity in some way, it is absolutely clear that this association has benefitted me. The experience and wisdom I have gained through working with Beta has helped my career and made me a better parent and person. Since Beta can do all these things for me, I have no doubt in its ability to foster growth in the undergraduate membership. When I tell prospective new
members that Beta can improve every facet of their collegiate experience, I really mean it. I appreciate all that Beta offers because it is so directly applicable to my job as a professor and department chairman. It is only a bit of an exaggeration to say that all I need to know I learned from Beta. I find myself using Beta lessons every day: mutual aid and assistance, respect for leadership and the willingness to lead when called upon, and striving to make myself worthy of the respect and friendship of my dear Beta friends. Although I would need a ladder to dunk a basketball, Coach John Wooden, Purdue ’32 has become an absolute hero of mine. If Beta hadn’t handed me one of Wooden’s books, I never would have learned his simple and profound advice: be more concerned with your character than your reputation, the responsibility to initiate trust falls on those with more maturity, the first and most important step in friendship is being a friend, etc. Thanks, Coach. And thank you Beta!