Bruce Clayton
Colgate ‘89

“Phi Delta Theta has given me a connection to something bigger than just Colgate. I had a fantastic experience as an undergraduate. Today, I feel like I’m getting something back for my gifts to the Foundation,” says Bruce Clayton.

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Bruce Clayton, Colgate ’89 feels a great appreciation for his undergraduate years.  His fondest memories include living in the chapter house, working on the kitchen crew alongside beloved cook and housemother Winnie MacKay, the leadership experience he gained as a chapter officer and the lifelong friendships that are thriving still today.

A recent attendee at his 20th class year reunion, he’s a director of the New York Zeta Fund and president of the house corporation. Not a day goes by without a phone call or an e-mail exchange with one of the undergraduates. He says the frequent contact is important to truly understand what’s going on at the chapter.  “I’ve been lucky enough to connect with hundreds of brothers who have come through the chapter. It’s been really fun over the years to watch them progress through careers and start families of their own.”

“I had a fantastic experience as an undergraduate. Today, I feel like I’m getting something back for my gifts to the Foundation: the enthusiasm and excitement of working directly with chapter members, seeing what they are made of and watching them get excited when they execute well,” he shares.

A member of the Trustees Roundtable for four consecutive years and in his eighteenth year of giving, he’s one of the newest Founders Club members. His reason for giving: so that others could have what he had. 

And to him, it’s all worth it. “Phi Delta Theta has given me a connection to something bigger than just Colgate. Some of my best friends today are Fraternity brothers. Even with the passage of time, when we get together, we’re able to pick up right where we left off,” he shares.

Clayton’s wife, Julie, also a Colgate graduate and a member of Pi Beta Phi, is very supportive of his commitment to Phi Delta Theta. They were married in 1993 in Hamilton, N.Y. and held their wedding reception at the Phi Delt house.