gump•tion (n.) shrewd or spirited initiative and resourcefulness  

If asked to describe yourself in just one word, you probably wouldn’t land on gumption. But that’s exactly how Jeff Weckbach, Northern Kentucky ’09, describes himself.

“First-off, it’s a cool word,” said Weckbach, “and, second, it basically just means that you work hard, and you’re ambitious, and you keep doing what you need to do to get things done.”

To Weckbach, gumption is not just an idea, it is a full-on state of being that takes motivation, persistence and a positive outlook.

One thing is for sure, if anyone has gumption, it’s Weckbach for having the guts (or is it just crazy?) to hold down four majors: Political Science, Economics, Criminal Justice and Philosophy. That’s not even counting his two additional minors: Public Administration and Geography.

Weckbach seems to have all of the makings of a fifth-year senior, but he’s actually a true senior at NKU slated to graduate on time in May 2012. Not only that, but he’s holding down a 3.80 GPA as well.

“I like to get the most out of college,” said Weckbach. “I might as well do the most with my time and do different things. Rather than taking an easy course or just throwing away credits.”

We all know that academics are an important part of being a member in Alpha Tau Omega, however, involvement and social service skills are an important part of the college (and ATO) experience.

Tack on Weckbach’s current involvement as ATO Vice President, Golden Key Secretary, Phi Beta Lambda member, Alpha Phi Sigma honorary and Student Government Association senator, and you’ve got more than just a well-rounded student.

“Jeff proves to the chapter that you can do it all,” said Jacob Priddy, Northern Kentucky ’10.

Weckbach has also placed First in Macroeconomics in a Kentucky Phi Beta Lambda competition and was invited to speak at their Congress in Orlando, Fla. earlier this year. He was honored as a “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges” and was also inducted into the Golden Key Honor Society.

“Jeff is setting a precedent for future ATOs and future students of NKU,” said Julia Fleisher, member of Kappa Delta at NKU. “[He] showed that you can do big things on campus, no matter who you are.

Weckbach holds the bar high for his chapter brothers.

“Jeff shows us that we can pretty much do anything we really want to,” said Colin Kremer, Northern Kentucky ’10.

“If you get presented with an opportunity, don’t deny it ... because you don’t think you’ll be able to follow through with it,” said Weckbach. “Take up the challenge, take life by the reins.”