Larry Lamb was born to be a Phi Delt. It had an impact on his childhood, was a big part of his young adulthood, and now he serves as the chapter’s House Director – working with the active brothers on leadership initiatives, general counseling, and house management. We sat down with Larry to learn more about why he continues to support the chapter.
How did you get involved with Phi Delta Theta?
For me, Phi Delt started before I went to college because my father was a Phi Delt at The University of Puget Sound (His Bond number was #17). Growing up, I spent a lot of time around some of his brothers, and I was introduced to Phi Delta Theta at a young age. I attended Rollins College before transferring to UF my sophomore year.
At UF, I met some of the guys in the fall of `83 and was given a bid in spring `83. Mac Fleming, Tim Bargeron, Steve Shourds, and Rob Thur all helped recruit me. In the Fall of 2016, my family made a lifestyle move to Gainesville, and I got re-engaged with the chapter.
What was your first impression of Florida Alpha?
My first memory is walking up to the house during Fall rush in 1983. I thought the house was impressive with that “Old Florida” look, and the majority of the brothers were very down-to-earth and friendly.
What has surprised you most about working with Florida Alpha as an alumnus?
How the alumni can instantly connect our friendships and shared brotherhood experiences even after many years of not seeing each other.
What’s the best thing to happen since you became a member of Florida Alpha?
Having true, life-long friends.
If you could change one thing about Florida Alpha, what would it be?
The current chapter is full of leaders on campus and in the community, and I think we need a Chapter House that matches our brotherhood and achievements.
What do you wish other people knew about Florida Alpha?
We are a successful, diverse brotherhood at one of the best universities in the U.S.
Why do you support Florida Alpha?
It helped shaped me as a young man, and it’s our duty as alumni to help the next generation of Florida Alpha bothers.
Tell me about some of the people you’ve met while working on Florida Alpha?
I have met some local Phi’s that have carried the torch here at PDT. Bumper Watson, Buddy Goodman, and Dave Webster have all been great partners. I have also become friends with Phis from the 90’s that I didn’t know before moving back to Gainesville. Working and speaking with Guy Norris after all these years has been fun as well!
The interest in Florida Alpha seems to be growing. Why do you think that is?
I think alumni realize how important PDT continues to be in their lives and how successful the Chapter continues to be, and they want to help.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about giving back to Florida Alpha?
The need is great, and all alumni help is welcome – at any level. I try to remind the actives that as brothers, we are responsible for all “Past, Present and Future Phis.” It’s your house and your fraternity to take care of during your time as active brothers.
What do you do when you aren’t working/volunteering?
I try to spend a lot of my time with my wife, Ginger. We have been married for almost 30 years. My two sons Logan (28) and Lawson (25) are both in the workforce, so we are looking for new adventures now that we are “empty nesters.”