Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity named its dining hall Saturday in honor of Tom Eden, former Auburn head cheerleader in 1949 and dedicated alumnus.
While the dining hall was previously unnamed, the brothers of SAE chose Eden for his extraordinary contributions to the chapter throughout the years.
"By naming the dining hall after him, we will show him our gratitude for all he has done for this chapter," said Matt Cutbirth, SAE president and senior in accounting. "The dining hall will be a permanent feature of our chapter house so that generations to come will know of the contributions Tom Eden has made."
Eden said he was surprised to hear the news.
"It was the most wonderful experience I've ever had," Eden said. "I was so pleased and happy that they would name a room after me because that is the ultimate gift.
"It is absolutely beautiful."
Eden became affiliated with the Alabama Alpha Mu chapter of SAE in 1947 after a friend from the Navy urged him to visit Auburn.
Eden purchased the property for the current fraternity house in 1955 and raised money to construct the chapter's house.
"I chose the land, and in 1957 we built the present SAE house from funds," Eden said. "It has been renovated since, though. I'm so proud of it, and we have a great group there."
During his time at Auburn, Eden was senior class president, a member of Spades and chosen for Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.
However, one of his most notable accomplishments was his role as captain of the cheerleading squad.
"There were 4,500 students at the school at the time, and there were seven of us on the cheer squad," Eden said. "We recently had a reunion, which was great."
Once his time at Auburn was completed, Eden remained involved in the fraternity by twice serving as chapter adviser.
Eden was neither the first nor the last in his family to be involved with SAE.
His father, Thomas, sons Tommy and Steve and nephew Terry have all been members of SAE.
Even the women in Eden's family are involved.
His daughter Eve and niece Diane have served as SAE little sisters.
The ceremony was held Saturday morning at the SAE house, honoring Eden's lifelong contributions to the chapter.
It also brought together the brothers to help in the celebration.
"I think it is great we are honoring him," said Taylor Howard, senior in finance. "He's done a lot for us over the years.
"We wouldn't have this house and great location if it wasn't for him."
The dining hall, which employs two full-time cooks, serves 10 meals each week.
It plays a vital role in showcasing the fraternity's accomplishments.
The hall is also used to host events, such as band and date parties.
Cutbirth said, "We can comfortably seat 90 people on our unique and custom-made SAE dining tables.
"Two sides of the dining hall are adorned with composites from years past.
"Another side has a trophy case, and the last side of our dining hall looks out over our deck, band room and pond."
Eden currently lives in Auburn.
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