Alex Jatto’s big personality has led him in many different directions at East Tennessee State University.
“I’ve had to figure out how to channel my excitement because sometimes it can be off the charts,” he says.
It all started with an audition to play keyboard for the Gospel Choir. Then, Alex connected with ETSU’s Army ROTC Program.
“Eric Coleman recruited me (to ROTC) and he put me on the right path to distinguishing myself as an African American leader,” he says.
Alex served as cadet battalion executive officer (XO) and is currently the public affairs/recruitment officer. In his role as the XO, he led the entire Battalion staff and was the second in command. After his sophomore year at ETSU, Alex went to basic camp at Fort Knox. This experience greatly impacted how he would spend his next two years at ETSU.
“I saw the bigger picture – that I can have impact on others. Through ROTC I have learned that no matter where I am, I can be a leader on the battlefield, or in the office. In every situation you have someone else’s life in your hands.”
Alex also became involved with ETSU’s National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), the governing body for the historically African American fraternities and sororities on campus. In addition to his role as community service and public relations chair for NPHC, he is also president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
“I just find myself reaching out to people and finding opportunities,” he says.
Alex proudly represented NPHC and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated last fall during the unveiling of the NPHC Plaza. Located near Governors and Centennial residence halls, the plaza honors the contributions of the “Divine Nine” historically African American fraternities and sororities that make up the NPHC.
“This gives us a place on campus where we can call our own,” Alex says. “This shows the unity of not just the black community, but the history behind our fraternities and sororities. NPHC organizations were founded at a time when people of color could not socialize publicly, vote or build something like the NPHC Plaza on public property.
“The plaza represents more than bricks and hard work, it represents the past, present and future.”
Through Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated Alex has engaged in philanthropy efforts to encourage voter registration and participation among his peers as well as community service at elementary and middle schools.
Alex came to ETSU from Greensboro, North Carolina, and describes himself as someone who dives “head first” into everything. Even though he was far from home, Alex decided to immerse himself into Gospel Choir and other aspects of campus life to make the most of his time at ETSU. He says Gospel Choir reminded him of home and promoted the values he learned as a child.
Alex will graduate in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Attending law school is among his goals, but first he will commission as a field artillery officer in May. His first assignment will be Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he will attend the Basic Officer Leaders Course (BOLC).