Jay Marr ’83: “I believe in all the good of the fraternity”

Marr and family skiing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, circa 2019. Photo: Jay Marr 

 

Jay Marr ’83 ([email protected]) gives back to Delta Tau Delta because he wants to give back to the alumni that helped him. Here are his favorite memories from his time in the house and an insight into why he gives. 

Meeting active members during rush was what got Marr interested in the house. He was impressed by “the active members, the unique Urbana location (713 W Ohio at the time), and the house was not too large at the time unlike most other fraternities competing in the Blue Division.” 

One of his best memories from living in the house was winning the Delta Gamma Anchor Splash for two years in a row (’82 and ’83). 

“Being in a fraternity helped me learn to deal with a wide range of people. In my particular case, we had to rebuild the house membership after 1981. The alumni helped us do that in so many ways. From that experience, I learned to always give back.” 

“The spring of 1981 was a very dark time for the Chapter. We had extreme odds against us rebuilding the house. With alumni help, the goal was accomplished over several years. That experience has helped me stay the course and keep diligent in difficult times (whether business or family).” 

Marr gives back for two vital reasons. “Firstly, to respect and honor the alumni that stepped up and saved the Beta Upsilon chapter of Delta Tau Delta from being wiped off of the Illinois campus in 1981. The alumni helped rebuild the membership, funded the operating deficit for three or four semesters and gave us strategic planning, goal-setting, and execution seminars which I still remember today.” 

“Secondly, I believe in all the good of the fraternity – particularly at large campuses such as the University of Illinois.  

“The additional benefit, if more alumni give back, would be the funds to use on house maintenance, Beta Upsilon specific programs and scholarships for the current members. All of this will help maintain Delta Tau Delta as one of the top Fraternities at Illinois.” 

Without Delta Tau Delta, I wouldn’t have been as diligent as I am when the tide goes against me.