Tony Magistro is Ashland University’s 2017 Distinguished Service Award recipient. The award recognizes an alumnus who has donated both time and talent in service to Ashland University.
For almost 30 years, Tony has given thousands of volunteer hours to the Ohio Mu Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He has served in roles as the Fraternity’s chapter advisor, housing improvement chairman and alumni liaison. He has spearheaded summer weekend work projects and has been instrumental in the planning of numerous Fraternity programs and activities that have raised thousands of dollars to augment the Thad Trautwein–Krueger Endowed Scholarship fund. Tony takes personal interest in students, always willing to help them with career, academic and personal matters.
Brother Magistro has been with ABC Supply Company for 19 years and established their National Account Division. For the past 44 years, he has been involved in the building materials industry and has worked in manufacturing as well as one-step and two-step distribution.
While at Ashland, Magistro earned a degree in Business Management and Marketing, was a member of the wrestling team and Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He is an avid hunter and fisherman; active in the Ducks Unlimited Shawnee Mission, Kansas chapter. He founded chapters for Ducks Unlimited in both Evergreen, Colorado, and Carrollton, Ohio. Magistro is a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Crazy Horse Foundation and is an Indy Car Racing Fan.
Why do you volunteer for Phi Delta Theta?
Well first of all, I don’t consider myself a volunteer. I’m an owner. I bought a franchise in 1966 when I pledged Phi Delta Theta. 660 Broad Street is my house and the undergraduate chapter members and alumni are my brothers. A volunteer’s time is as good as money to me, and I have had the opportunity to help a lot of young men and brothers see what service means. I’m betting my brothers will pay it forward in some meaningful way to the chapter and university.
What is the most rewarding aspect that comes from your Phi Delt volunteerism?
A few things come to mind: Staying connected with the 100 brothers with whom I went to college, acting as a conduit for alumni brothers to engage with the chapter and university, and knowing I helped keep my chapter open on campus through positive growth after its membership fell to seven.
What are some of your best memories as a Phi Delt volunteer?
My best memories are the conversations that have continued with brothers for the past 50 years. My wife, Laura, and I were fortunate to meet two brothers and their wives in Kansas City this summer. We went on a Colorado adventure with the same couples in the 1970s. When we reunited, the conversation picked up where we left off, 40 years later. When we have a reunion, golf outing, barbecue, or Homecoming celebration, you embrace the brotherhood, you feel the love.
Why would you encourage others to volunteer for Phi Delta Theta?
When one gives back and pays it forward, he is doing good for the health of the brotherhood. Everyone likes to feel good. Supporting your chapter, your franchise, your university, and our international organization are fundamental to the three Cardinal Principals of Phi Delta Theta. “They don’t put pockets in caskets” is a quote I have heard, so give back!
This year, the Phi Delt Fund is dedicated to our Brotherhood – To our Cardinal Principles, our Bond, and each other.
All gifts in 2017 may be made in honor of a brother or brothers who exemplify our Cardinal Principles and make you say, “Proud to be a Phi.”
When you make a gift—either online or through the mail— include a note to the brother you’re honoring and we’ll forward it to him along with a One Man Is No Man decal he can display proudly.
