William Henry Emerson

First Dean of Georgia Tech

William Henry Emerson was a foundational figure in the early development of Georgia Tech, joining as one of the first 3 professors in 1888 and later becoming its first dean, helping transform the school into a more academically rigorous and scientifically grounded institution. As the only original faculty member with an American-earned scientific doctorate, he elevated the institute's credibility and played a key role in building its chemistry program and broader academic structure. Beyond academics, his influence extended into student life through his role in founding the ANAK Society, and his long-lasting impact is reflected in campus honors named after him. Within Alpha Tau Omega, Emerson embodied the fraternity's ideals of leadership, scholarship, and service, demonstrating how its members could achieve meaningful institutional influence and uphold a legacy of excellence both on campus and beyond.

Eugene M. Clary

Class of 1932

Georgia Tech Distinguished Alumnus and Transformational Philanthropist

Eugene M. Clary was a distinguished Georgia Tech alumnus and devoted member of Alpha Tau Omega whose legacy is defined by both his professional success and his deep commitment to giving back. A 1932 graduate of Georgia Tech, Clary remained actively involved with the Institute throughout his life, contributing significantly through both philanthropy and engagement. His impact is most notably seen in his $1 million donation to the Georgia Tech Student Success Center, where the Eugene Clary Theater now bears his name, as well as in the multiple scholarships he established to support future students. Beyond the Institute, Clary maintained a lifelong dedication to Alpha Tau Omega, funding scholarships for fraternity members and supporting the chapter to the extent that the ATO house at Georgia Tech is named in his honor. Guided by a belief in meaningful, opportunity-driven philanthropy, Clary's contributions reflect a lasting commitment to empowering others and strengthening the communities that shaped him. Finally, he was inducted posthumously into the Greek Hall of Fame in 2019 as recognition of his contributions to Georgia Tech as a member of the greek community.

Cherry Logan Emerson Sr.

Dean of Engineering (1945)

Cherry Logan Emerson Sr. was a central figure in Georgia Tech's early development, most notably serving as Dean of Engineering, where he helped guide the Institute through a period of significant academic and physical expansion. His leadership strengthened Georgia Tech's engineering programs and reinforced its reputation as a leading technical institution in the South. Beyond his administrative impact, Emerson was also affiliated with Alpha Tau Omega, where he exemplified the fraternity's core values of leadership, service, and professional excellence. His career reflects the close connection between Georgia Tech and Alpha Tau Omega, demonstrating how members of the fraternity have played influential roles in shaping the Institute's growth and long-term success.

Walt G. Ehmer

Class of 1989

Waffle House President & Distinguished Georgia Tech Alumnus

Walt Ehmer, a 1989 industrial engineering graduate of Georgia Tech, was deeply involved in both his alma mater and Alpha Tau Omega, where he served as chapter president. He went on to become CEO and later chairman of Waffle House, while remaining highly engaged with Georgia Tech through leadership roles on the Georgia Tech Foundation Board, Alumni Association Board (including serving as chair), and other advisory groups. He was recognized with the Joseph Mayo Pettit Alumni Distinguished Service Award, the university's highest alumni honor. His legacy on campus continues through the Walter G. Ehmer Theater in the John Lewis Student Center and the Walter G. Ehmer Scholarship, both of which reflect his lasting contributions and commitment to Georgia Tech and its students.