Ben Brian ’52: KA Provides Foundation for Successful Life
Thank you to Ben Brian ’52 for participating in this Q&A.
Why did you join KA as an undergraduate? I joined because I was rushed and I liked the people in the fraternity, I liked the facilities, everything about it. I’m a southerner so the Robert E. Lee legend also appealed to me. My father was a KA too, so it was a perfect fit.
What is the most memorable moment from your years at KA? I was hospitalized for an emergency appendectomy during graduation, so one of my fraternity brothers convinced this young lady that he was dating to come visit me and keep me company. We hit it off right away, began dating and were married six months later. We have three great children and seven great grandchildren.
How do you stay connected with your brothers as an alumnus? The guy that recommended Betty come see me has a condo, and every April we gather for a three day golfing and fellowship reunion. I’m in the KA alumni group in Savannah, which has given me the opportunity to stay connected with many KAs that way.
Have you visited Tech since graduation? Yes, I’ve been back many times. One of my granddaughters graduated from Tech three years ago, I go to homecoming most years and I had a grandson there for a year, but he transferred to the University of Texas to be closer to home. I’ve made two gift annuities to Georgia Tech and have contributed to the Roll Call for KA Alumni every year since graduation.
What about your membership in KA makes you the most proud? I think it’s a great fraternity and I’m proud to say I’m a KA. My proudest moment was meeting my wife there. The initiation is very impressive.
How did membership in KA shape or benefit your life? I felt some of the traditions and some of the spiritual things of KA have kept me in touch with KAs and my religion. The foundation of being a southern gentleman, Robert E. Lee and respecting women has had an impact and served as a code I live by.
For those that are really moved by KA, there’s an organization called the Royal Order for KA Order alumni.
Where has life taken you since graduation? What’s new in your life today? I’ve been retired for about 20 years and have lived in Savannah for about 20 years. I had a successful career spending 2 years in the Air Force and 38 in Dupont. My wife and I have been married for 58 years and we stay in touch with our children and grandchildren. There are many things I’ve been blessed with. I couldn’t have found a better lady to marry. We’re strong in our church, we contribute very generously and it’s a great church.
What was your fraternity nickname and how did you earn it? They called me Dancing Bear, I probably looked like a bear trying to jitterbug, but we loved to dance.
What is the best thing about your alumni experience? Keeping track of the brothers that were in the fraternity when I was there.
Connect with Ben at [email protected] or (912) 598-7797.