[Erik P Conard]

There are countless, giving, sharing, loving, warm folks who've
advised us, led us, and contributed greatly to our organizations.
I salute the groups which endow them with membership, which I
am sure they valued highly.
Many of our national leaders have evolved through a merger, a
local, or an honorary path and they have done us proud.
I do recall a humorous side, though...back in the 50s there was
a famous group, the Four Lads....they were Tekes, and they left
us a signed photo at KU.."to the Teeks."
The Brothers Four were ALL undergrad Phi Gams...at U Washington, I believe--and not honoraries...a great group!
Ronald Reagan, a bona-fide undergrad member (Eureka College)
was an undergraduate president along with his brother Neil. And
neither EVER forgot the membership. And Reagan's visit to Ohio
State, inviting ALL chapter presidents at OSU to have lunch with
him at the Teke house...will forever be remembered by all.
He was an extremely strong supporter of the Greeks, moreso than FDR, the Bushes, etc. And Bill Clinton, the Alpha Phi Omega,
was surely pleased when they went co-ed. But I doubt he ever
got beyond Tenderfoot!
I have read since about several fraternities and sororities who've
bestowed memberships...and I do not doubt for a second that these have been cherished by all. Why not?
But, if your group decides to be exclusive, elite, or what have you
then power to you....I doubt that those who go to Union College
would have a lot in common with those at Johnson & Wales.
Good thread! Give that beloved honorary a hug--much deserved.