Founded in 1865 by three former confederate soldiers at Virginia Military Institute in order to encourage reconciliation between citizens from both sides of the Civil War, Alpha Tau Omega embraces Christian principles as its guide. With more than 250 chapters and 200,000 members, ATO ranks among the largest and most active Greek organizations. At UGA since 1878, ATO contributes widely to the school's proud heritage -- the large white columned southern mansion of ATO is a landmark on South Milledge Avenue.
Its members are active in community-service activities, such as the Leonard Leadership Program, Order of Omega and Alumni Association. In two years ATO raised more than $35,000 for causes such as ugaMIRACLE, ugaHERO and Rally For Life benefiting the American Cancer Society. Created in 1986, the LeaderShape Institute was formed by ATO as a means to develop strong future leaders; it is widely recognized as one of the top programs of its kind.