Greek life is a huge part of campus culture at Clemson University, and with 26 IFC fraternities, being named Best IFC Fraternity is no small accomplishment, let alone winning the title two years in a row. This year, that honor once again went to Alpha Tau Omega.
The national Alpha Tau Omega organization was founded on Sept. 11, 1865, and the Eta Pi chapter was founded at Clemson University on May 7, 1971.
The Tiger spoke with chapter president Mitchell Risinger, a senior economics major, who said the recognition is an opportunity to highlight the positive impact fraternities have on campus.
“I think outreaching and letting people know that fraternities do a lot of good on campus is important,” Risinger told The Tiger. “It’s not just the negative things people hear about. There’s a lot of good, and the more we show that, the better the understanding of what IFC really stands for, (which is) building men of honor, respect and integrity.”
When asked what being named the Best IFC Fraternity meant to ATO, Risinger said it’s an honor and a huge responsibility to be recognized amid such a great community of IFC chapters.
“I think that we kind of use it as a call to action to continue all the good stuff we have been doing,” he continued, emphasizing that the chapter prioritizes recruiting men whom “you would want to walk your sister home at 2 a.m.”
Risinger also highlighted ATO’s commitment to “accountability, integrity and the pursuit of excellence.” The chapter fosters growth in its members and as an organization through a strong brotherhood.
Campus involvement extends well beyond the walls of the chapter house. ATO members maintain a strong presence on Clemson’s campus. Brothers are involved in the Clemson Undergraduate Student Government, IPTAY Student Advisory Board, Student Alumni Council, Clemson Tour Guide Association, club and intramural sports and more. Campus involvement is deeply ingrained in the chapter’s culture, with members consistently pursuing opportunities to serve and represent Clemson in various capacities.
That commitment to character extends beyond the chapter itself. ATO has played an impactful role in supporting Upstate Warrior Solution, raising over $250,000 for the organization over the past four years. The chapter hosts three major philanthropic events throughout the year, concluding with Viking Week.
Viking Week is a tournament-style event in which sororities compete throughout the week to raise money. Teams face off in various competitions and events, culminating in a large-scale final event featuring activities such as tug-of-war. The winning sorority is ultimately determined by the amount of money raised, combining friendly competition with fundraising for a greater cause. In 2025, Viking Week raised $60,504.09, and this year the chapter aims to surpass that total with a goal of $90,000. This year’s event will take place from April 13-17.
As Clemson’s Best IFC Fraternity for the second year in a row, ATO continues to set the standard in philanthropy, leadership and brotherhood. The chapter has cultivated a culture that extends beyond college, preparing its members to leave Clemson not only as fraternity brothers but as men committed to leading with integrity long after graduation.
www.clemsonifc.com/alpha-tau-omega // @atoclemson (Instagram)
