A native of Lexington, North Carolina, and raised in Asheville, Brother Richard E. “Rick” Tate began his collegiate journey on a golf scholarship at Edison Community College in Fort Myers, Florida. He later transferred to North Carolina State University to join its golf team, where he also began his lifelong commitment to Sigma Nu, initiated into the Beta Tau Chapter in 1979 as initiate #948.
Following graduation, Brother Tate dedicated 34 years of service to the State of North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services, where he served as Deputy Chief of the Business Enterprises Program for the Division of Services for the Blind.
Brother Tate’s contributions to Sigma Nu have been both far-reaching and deeply impactful. He served as District Commander from 1988 to 1992 and went on to serve as Carolinas Division Commander for more than three decades, from 1992 to 2023. His leadership has also been instrumental at the national level, having chaired the Elections Committee for seven consecutive Grand Chapters, from 2010 through 2023. For his outstanding service, he was awarded the Regent’s Medallion of Merit in 2020 and was recognized with a special Grand Chapter Resolution at the conclusion of the 70th Grand Chapter in Ft. Lauderdale.
Equally committed to his home chapter, Brother Tate has long served the Beta Tau Chapter through roles on the Alumni Chapter, House Corporation, and Alumni Advisory Board. He remains a driving force behind the chapter’s Annual Alumni Oyster Roast and Golf Tournament, which recently celebrated its 44th annual gathering, serving as planner, marketer, and emcee.
Known for his hands-on support, often found handling landscaping and maintenance around NC State’s Greek Village, Brother Tate also volunteers as a high school football and lacrosse official for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. And, true to his roots, he remains a force on the golf course, regularly shooting in the 60s.
Brother Rick Tate’s enduring dedication, service, and love for the Fraternity embody the very spirit of the Legion of Honor. He is the 90th inductee in the Sigma Nu Hall of Honor.