ZTA celebrates 30 years of philanthropy through entertainment

What began as a spirited pageant featuring young Auburn University men has evolved into one of the Greek community’s most powerful philanthropic traditions, and in 2025, Zeta Tau Alpha’s (ZTA) Big Man on Campus (BMOC) fundraising event celebrated its 30th anniversary.  

Formerly just one annual night of entertainment, BMOC has grown into a year-round affair that unites students, alumni and the local community in the fight against breast cancer. It now blends service, education and community engagement throughout the fall and spring semesters. 

While the pageant portion remains a highlight, today’s BMOC also includes social media campaigns, service projects and strategic partnerships with groups like Auburn Dream Makers, Student Government Association, Student Recruiters and Student Firefighters. 

The introduction of livestream ticketing has expanded the main event’s reach, allowing parents, alumni and supporters from afar to join in the celebration online. Meanwhile, ZTA’s use of platforms like TikTok and Instagram has turned digital engagement into real-world impact, raising awareness and boosting participation through viral trends and behind-the-scenes content. 

“Big Man on Campus is special not just because it raises money for a use close to my heart, but because it brings people together,” said chapter president Tori Schultz, a senior double majoring in pre-pharmacy and Public and One Health. “It’s the people, the connections and the stories that truly make this event unforgettable.” 

Raising funds, hope and awareness 

BMOC’s fundraising success tells a story of dedication and momentum, and this year’s event raised a record-breaking $120,000. But for ZTA, success isn’t just measured in dollars.  

One of the most impactful outreach efforts is the sorority’s partnership with the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, Alabama. Over the past year alone, the chapter donated more than 1,000 care bags filled with comfort items like lip balm, tissues, word puzzles and handwritten notes of encouragement — small gestures that offer big comfort to patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. 

ZTA also brings breast cancer awareness to the forefront at campus sporting events, distributing pink ribbons at “Think Pink at the Rink” with club hockey, as well as at softball and gymnastics meets. 

More than just a show 

Preparation for the pageant portion begins in January, with each contestant — one representing each of Auburn’s 18 sororities — attending weekly practices in dance, marketing and talent. Participants are from across campus and are nominated by sororities or themselves, creating a dynamic lineup that reflects the spirit of Auburn.  

During the show, each participant performs a talent, answers an on-stage question, walks the stage in formal wear and performs in a group dance number. 

The 2025 main event featured a special alumni dance performance and a wide range of talent acts, from guitar playing and singing to lip-syncing and sushi-making. The night’s top award went to senior hospitality management major Han Lee, representing Delta Delta Delta, whose infectious positivity and standout dance performance captivated the crowd and judges alike.  

Major sponsors, like AlphaLit, Mellow Mushroom, Tanology and John’s Alterations, played a key role in the event’s success. These sponsors reflect the strong community support behind BMOC. Distinguished guests included ZTA Foundation President Carolyn Carpenter, Auburn First Lady Tracy Roberts and Carla Wright, the alumna who founded BMOC three decades ago. 

Looking ahead 

Over the years, BMOC has not only grown in scale and impact but also has earned significant recognition. The chapter was named to the ZTA Founders Club for donating more than $250,000 to the ZTA Foundation from 2022-24. The chapter also was recognized as the second-highest fundraising ZTA chapter in the nation and received the 2024 Greek Excellence Award for philanthropic programming, illustrating the dedication of its members and the event’s lasting influence on campus. 

Planning for the coming year has already begun. This fall, the chapter will expand its educational outreach by hosting its first-ever breast cancer health session on campus during Think Pink week in October.  

Olivia Brothers, ZTA’s vice president of philanthropy and service and a senior law and justice major, said BMOC is more than a pageant for the guys — it’s a testament to what a dedicated group of students can achieve when they “Think Pink” and dream big. 

“Breast cancer education and awareness is Zeta Tau Alpha’s national philanthropy,” she said. “One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. By supporting our events, the Auburn community is directly making an impact on the future of breast cancer.”