Of particular note are two programs supported by Alpha Tau Omega: The Leadershape Institute and Noah's Ark.
While we may propagate the urban legend that Sig Ep has been a leader in leadership programs and that we certainly should be proud of our own Leadership Continuum (CLA, Ruck, Quest to Greece, EDGE), we should be aware that even if we are the leader and "often duplicated," those who see value in duplication always seem to somehow surpass us. I guess it's just Sig Ep's goal of instant gratification and no real consideration for long range strategic planning .... or ..... that we only want to pander to our elitist philosophy of good experiences for the chosen few. But I digress....
Here's are some notable facts about these two ATO programs. One could compare Noah's Ark to Sig Ep's Ruck institute, albeit a bit more rustic; however, ATO has taken it several steps farther and makes it available to ALL chapter and colony members that have at least one more academic year of study as long as they are in good academic, financial and Fraternity standing. Now isn't that what a fraternity is supposed to provide? Equal experiences for all? Noah's Ark not only focuses on challenge and leadership but also on the spiritual aspects of the individual and the fraternity. Hmmmm. Sound mind? Sound body? And .... Sound Spirit????
The Leadershape Institute started as a small enterprise primarily focused on chapter members. It has now expanded to a major enterprise that is open to men and women, regardless of affiliation, and since 1986 has had more than 18,000 participants from over 500 colleges, universities, corporations, and other organizations across America. It is supported by numerous granting organizations and endorsed by some pretty impressive corporations and Universities. They just don't rush in the same old same old to give the same old same old.
While most fraternities and sororities are updating their websites these days, it seems they must be all using the same group of graphic designers. But ..... it's the content that counts.
This writer cannot attest to the quality or content of the two programs discussed above, but you have to say the promos are impressive and makes this site worthy of being S&P's National Fraternity/Sorority Website of the Month.
Alpha Tau Omega National Fraternity
