By Jalan H. Huffman, Gamma Mu (University of Memphis) 2023, the Fraternity’s Growth Project Manager

ZBT is proud of the many brothers who have served their country over the decades. This tradition firmly continues as the values of ZBT align to promote service, honor and freedom.

A member of the Gamma Mu Chapter Executive Board, Brother Will P. Slaman, Gamma Mu (University of Memphis) 2027, was honored as Midshipman of the Semester for spring for the university’s Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) program.

Brother Slaman, originally from Richboro, Pennsylvania, said he chose Memphis with the idea of being active on campus and in the NROTC program.

“Greek Life had always piqued my interest, and after attending (freshman orientation), I felt confident that joining a fraternity was the right path for me. Some of the first and most impactful individuals I met on campus were brothers of Zeta Beta Tau, and it quickly became clear that the fraternity’s values aligned with my own aspirations for personal growth and leadership,” he said of his Fraternity choice.

Brother Slaman has served as Standards Director for Gamma Mu, and recently stepped up to serve as Finance Director.

“Many people assume that participation in NROTC — or any ROTC program — precludes involvement in Greek Life. I take pride in challenging that assumption and demonstrating that it is possible to excel in both arenas. The lessons I have learned through my fraternity experience so far have been invaluable, and I am confident they will continue to serve me well as I take on greater responsibilities within NROTC,” he said.

The Midshipman of the Semester recognition honors individuals distinguished in leadership, academics and military aptitude. Brother Slaman is ending his sophomore year, majoring in supply chain management. When he graduates, he will accept a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps with the goal of serving as a logistics officer.

“ZBT has played an instrumental role in shaping me into the leader I am becoming, and I hope to carry forward that same spirit — bringing out the best in those I lead—throughout my military career,” he said.