BALTIMORE (October 25, 2010) - Thomas “Tex” Dean has been chosen as chairman of the 50th Anniversary Celebration Committee, the Fraternity announced this weekend.
20th International Grand Vice-Polaris John Scott made the announcement during Morgan State University’s Homecoming on Saturday. The news was then shared through the Fraternity’s official Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Dean, 64, comes to the position well versed of the Fraternity’s history and growth. A member of the influential “Pied Piper” line, Dean is the only person to hold the position of Grand Polaris three times. He was the 10th International Grand Polaris from 1971-73, then reelected to a second term from 1974-76 and became the 13th International Grand Polaris from 1982-84.
Dean has held other Fraternity positions, including Polaris of Alpha Omega during the 1970’s and Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1985-88. He is also the Fraternity’s second life member.
Dean’s professional career has spanned a number of disciplines, from management consulting to running a health center and a non-profit youth organization.
Building momentum for the 50th Anniversary will take, among other things, the success of the 2011 Conclave, he said.
“It’s like being elected to the position of Grand Polaris because the 50th Anniversary is something that doesn’t come too often,” he said. “It’s one of the greatest occasions the Fraternity will ever have. I feel really good about having the opportunity to make this a real good event and a good affair for the Founders. To make it something that will make them feel really good about what they started and at the same time to give every brother in this organization the same feeling.”
Dean came highly recommended by several Founders and other senior brothers, and was chosen after discussions between Scott and 20th International Grand Polaris Karl Price. The respect Dean has in the Baltimore area, along with his business experience, will serve the Fraternity well in executing a high-quality anniversary celebration, Scott said.
“Tex will help bridge our Fraternity’s historical gap and also assist in bringing back brothers from the 1960’s and 70’s who helped build this organization,” he said. “He shares our vision for the 50th anniversary, that success is the only option.”