Though John-Michael T. Liontas (Stetson, ’21) has many accomplishments to show for his associate’s degree earned before graduation from high school and a double major in three years at Stetson University, he is most proud of his continued involvement with Lambda Chi Alpha.
Coming into Stetson for a shorter amount of time, Liontas was looking to capitalize on campus involvement. It was fitting, then, that two of the first people he met were both Brothers of Lambda Chi and well-connected around campus.
“I was really looking forward to building some communities, and Lambda Chi really seemed like the community that would have my back through it all,” said Liontas.
Liontas made the full plunge into Lambda Chi and witnessed how that single choice has been opening doors for him ever since.
“Almost every other organization or path I chose either started with a connection from Lambda Chi or encouragement to pursue it,” said Liontas.
One of those opportunities that Liontas was introduced to because of the Fraternity was playing a crucial role in the Student Government Association (SGA) senate. Thanks to the encouragement of Brothers that were already serving on the SGA, Liontas secured his spot as a two-time elected director of finance. In this role, he was responsible for safeguarding the interests of the student body and organizations on campus by making sure they were meeting all their financial goals.
In addition to serving as a proponent for change on campus, Liontas was also part of the honor council and the homecoming committee.
On a professional level, the Fraternity has been instrumental in propelling Liontas towards his goal of one day owning his own law firm or financial business. Through a Lambda Chi connection, Liontas became a loan specialist at a local bank where he was able to provide almost a million dollars in paycheck protection and 1.9 million in loan forgiveness during the pandemic.
“It was great to grow as a professional and a Brother in that opportunity that came from the Fraternity,” said Liontas.
One of the most important opportunities for Liontas, however, has been the chance to serve on the Student Advisory Committee (SAC) for Lambda Chi as the Grand High Theta. Through witnessing a behind-the-scenes look at how the Fraternity operates, Liontas urged himself to look for more ways to give back to the Fraternity that has given him so much.
“I wanted to make my Brothers proud and be a voice to represent the undergraduate Brothers, and I want to help continue to make Lambda Chi one of the top fraternities in the world,” said Liontas.
Liontas also had the unique chance to view just how many Brothers comprise the Global Zeta and that all members are working towards a common goal of creating a better space for Brothers to come.
Since graduating in May, Liontas is looking forward to a well-deserved break before diving into his next endeavor.
No matter where his life may take him, though, Liontas is forever grateful to have joined Lambda Chi and will continue to reflect on all of the many blessings it has provided him.
