Chapter’s intentional culture shift drives increased fundraising and deeper commitment to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) at Auburn University has demonstrated significant growth in philanthropic giving through a series of intentional, student‑led initiatives designed to strengthen member engagement and expand the chapter’s impact. Through high‑impact fundraising events, expanded online giving efforts, and ongoing volunteer service, the chapter has reinforced its commitment to giving back while deepening members’ understanding of the mission behind their philanthropy.

Central to TKE’s recent success has been a renewed focus on helping members connect personally to the chapter’s national philanthropic partner, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. By prioritizing education, creativity, and collaboration, the chapter has shifted how brothers view fundraising-- not as an obligation, but as a meaningful opportunity to support patients and families.

“Our executive team and philanthropy chair, Shane Davenport, focused on explaining to brothers the ‘why’ behind our philanthropy,” said Jake Nahra, Tau Kappa Epsilon president. “We taught them how their fundraising directly aids patients. By getting creative with events and partnering with local businesses, like in our tournament, we saw a significant increase in impact.”

One of the chapter’s signature initiatives is its annual philanthropy golf tournament, hosted at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Through the generous support of local business sponsors and community partners, the event has raised nearly $15,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As the chapter prepares to host its third annual tournament, the event continues to expand in both participation and community impact, further strengthening the chapter’s commitment to service and philanthropy.

The chapter also experienced significant success through its expanded online fundraising efforts. By encouraging brothers to connect with friends, family, and mentors through custom email and text templates, TKE achieved more than 300% growth over the previous year. The campaign raised more than $45,000, including the first $10,000 in under 24 hours, demonstrating the power of a coordinated and accessible approach to philanthropy.

In addition to its largest initiatives, the chapter introduced new opportunities to engage the Auburn community, including an inaugural March Madness bracket challenge that raised more than $2,000 for St. Jude. Open to participants across campus, the event was promoted through flyers and social media and featured a first‑place prize secured in partnership with Auburn Athletics.

While St. Jude remains the chapter’s primary philanthropic focus, Tau Kappa Epsilon’s commitment to service extends beyond fundraising alone. Members have remained actively engaged in handson volunteer efforts through Special Needs Assistance Station for You (SNASY), a campus initiative that provides support and accessibility resources for individuals with disabilities and their families during Auburn football game days. Throughout the fall, members assisted with tent setup and takedown and volunteered at comfort stations, reinforcing a chapter culture centered on showing up, serving others, and supporting the Auburn community.

That same culture of engagement and purpose has fueled the chapter’s philanthropic momentum nationwide. In 2019, Tau Kappa Epsilon chapters nationwide pledged $10 million to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital-- a goal now on track to be achieved this year, seven years later and ahead of schedule. Auburn’s chapter has played a meaningful role in advancing that mission through its continued growth, engagement, and commitment to service.

“I have been very proud to watch the last two officer teams increase the focus of the chapter on our philanthropy efforts,” said Frank Magazine, Tau Kappa Epsilon chapter advisor. “Our Auburn chapter efforts began with officers becoming more educated about St. Jude and then focusing our brothers and pledges in this direction. Jake’s officer team this year has been very intentional in their focus and planning and are on pace to surpass last year’s efforts.”

Looking ahead, the chapter is preparing to deepen its commitment to St. Jude with a planned visit to the organization’s Memphis, Tennessee campus in 2026. The trip will give members a firsthand look at how their fundraising and service efforts translate into meaningful impact for the children and families St. Jude serves.

“Tau Kappa Epsilon’s growth in philanthropic giving is a powerful example of what’s possible when student leaders connect service to purpose,” said Lindsay, director of Greek Life at Auburn University. “By educating their members on the impact of their efforts and creating inclusive, campus‑wide opportunities to give back, this chapter has strengthened its internal culture while making a meaningful difference for St. Jude and the Auburn community.”

Through intentional leadership, innovative fundraising, and a commitment to service, Tau Kappa Epsilon continues to demonstrate the positive impact Greek Life can have at Auburn University and beyond.