Project Zeta

A Campaign for the Future of Alpha Tau Omega at Murray State

Our Fundraising Plan to Refurbish and Modernize the Alpha Tau Omega Chapter House

1. Executive Summary

The Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) chapter house at Murray State University has served as a home, a classroom, and a hub of brotherhood for 30 years. It has been the foundation for countless memories and lifelong friendships. However, the passage of time has taken its toll. To ensure the chapter’s continued success, competitiveness, and ability to provide a safe, modern living-learning environment, a major capital campaign, Project Zeta, is necessary. This plan outlines a 24-month, multi-phased strategy to raise $500,000 to fully refurbish, repair, and industrialize the chapter house, with a stretch goal of $650,000 to establish a permanent maintenance endowment. The campaign will target alumni, parents, active members, and community partners through a combination of major gift solicitation, broad-based campaigns, and community events.

2. The Case for Support: Why Now?

Investing in the chapter house is a direct investment in the future of ATO at Murray State. The need is urgent and multi-faceted:

  • Safety and Code Compliance: A 30-year-old structure requires significant updates to its core systems. This includes modernizing electrical wiring to handle today’s technology, replacing aging plumbing, and ensuring the HVAC system is efficient and reliable. This is our foremost priority.
  • Recruitment and Competitiveness: Murray State is a competitive environment. A modern, well-maintained facility is a critical recruitment tool that demonstrates chapter health, alumni support, and a commitment to excellence.
  • Industrialization for Longevity: Standard residential kitchens and bathrooms are not designed to accommodate the frequent use by large groups. Commercial-grade appliances, durable countertops, and robust fixtures will be installed to help minimize future repair costs and maintain the house’s functionality over time.
  • Enhancing the Academic Mission: The project will include creating dedicated, quiet study areas with upgraded Wi-Fi and technology, reinforcing the fraternity’s commitment to academic achievement.
  • Preserving a Legacy Asset: The house is the chapter’s single greatest physical asset. Protecting this investment honors the alumni who built it and secures its value for the future.

3. Fundraising Goal & Tiers

A professional assessment is required for exact figures, but our preliminary goal is based on tiered priorities:

Primary Goal: $500,000

  • Tier 1: The Foundation ($150,000)
    • Focus: Core Systems & Safety
    • Items: Complete Electrical System Overhaul, Plumbing Repairs and structural improvements to the House and Gameroom.
  • Tier 2: Modernization & Industrialization ($200,000)
    • Focus: High-Traffic Areas
    • Items: Full Commercial-Grade Kitchen Renovation, Complete Bathroom Remodels with durable fixtures, New Flooring throughout the house, and improvements for energy efficiency.
  • Tier 3: The Finishes ($150,000)
    • Focus: Livability & Aesthetics
    • Items: Interior/Exterior Painting, Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Storage, Landscaping & Curb Appeal, New Furniture for Common Areas, Creation of a Dedicated Study & Leadership Center.

Stretch Goal: $650,000

  • The Legacy Endowment ($150,000): A professionally managed endowment fund where the interest generated annually will be used for routine maintenance, ensuring the house never falls into disrepair again.

4. Target Audiences

Our fundraising efforts will be tailored to the following groups:

  1. Alumni: The cornerstone of the campaign. They will be segmented by graduation decade, giving history, and known capacity.
  2. Parents of Active & Alumni Members: They have a vested interest in their sons’ college experience and safety.
  3. Active Chapter Members: Their participation, even at a modest level, is crucial for showing 100% buy-in to potential major donors.
  4. Community & Corporate Partners: Local businesses, construction companies, and suppliers who may offer financial or in-kind donations (materials, labor).
  5. ATO National Fraternity: Investigate potential grants or loans available for chapter house improvements.