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With deep respect and sorrow, we mark the passing of Ratan Tata ’59, one of the most accomplished members of our Alpha Sigma Phi brotherhood. Ratan, who passed away in October 2024, was not only one of the richest and most influential businessmen in India, best known for owning Jaguar
Land Rover, but also a proud Alpha Sig who never forgot his roots at Cornell University.
Ratan’s success in the business world was matched by his quiet generosity and enduring loyalty to the fraternity. His support during our 2008 financial campaign, which led to the much needed renovation of our kitchen, was instrumental. His contributions went far beyond financial; they reflected a belief in the values and future of the brotherhood.
He returned to Ithaca for our 2009 Centennial Celebration, where he was honored among friends and fraternity brothers. During that memorable weekend, we presented him with a National Fraternity Award for his outstanding professional achievements, a recognition he had earned earlier that year. The event was made even more special by the presence of many of his brothers and a short documentary that captured his time at Cornell and the lasting friendships forged there. You can watch the video at tinyurl.com/tata59. Ratan’s legacy lives on not just in the impact he made globally, but also in the hearts of those who knew him personally. He exemplified leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the bonds of brotherhood. He will be dearly missed.
Ratan’s life reminds us of the powerful impact one brother can have in the world at large and right here within our fraternity. His legacy is a call to action for all of us to stay connected, give back, and help shape the future of Alpha Sigma Phi at Cornell.