DSF: Where are you from originally?
CT: I was born and raised in Dayton, OH. I did all my schooling in Dayton before I decided to enroll at Ohio Northern University for college in 1978.
DSF:What made you decide to attend Ohio Northern?
CT: The University had a guaranteed admittance program through their law school if you maintained a certain grade point average. Therefore, I knew my hard work would pay off.
DSF: How did you get involved with Delta Sig at ONU?
CT: The University is a small college with 2700 students. The brothers did a good job of reaching out to the freshman class and discussing opportunities for involvement. I was impressed with the camaraderie of the chapter; the whole group had a great bond of friendships with a serious focus on academics and social development.
DSF: How was your experience as a Delta Sig undergraduate?
CT:It was incredible. I initiated in the winter quarter of 1979, and later served as chapter chaplain. The older brothers were great because they helped me achieve my goals. The chapter was full of encouragement and support.
DSF:Tell us about your experience after graduating from ONU.
CT: I graduated in 1982 and was accepted to Case Western Reserve University’s law school. I also began my MBA at Wright State University. In 1985, I completed my law degree and half of my MBA. I practiced real estate and commercial law following my first year out of law school. Soon, I became involved in several non-profit organizations that focused on low income housing, homelessness, and other serious initiatives, which peaked my interest in running for public office.
DSF: Please share your path to where you are today as a U. S. Congressman.
CT: In 1993, I ran for Mayor of the City of Dayton and won by 240 votes out of 44,000 votes casted. It was the first time in the city’s history that the incumbent lost. Dayton is 10% Republican and I was the first Republican to serve as mayor in 25 years.
DSF: How was your experience as mayor?
CT: Great. Very challenging. I also learned a lot. As mayor, you have to work towards a consensus, and that can be difficult. I worked through a very deliberate process of decision-making, just like my undergraduate fraternity experience. In terms of immediate challenges, the city had not balanced its budget in five years; it had deficits looming in years forward. My team and I worked together and balanced the city’s budget during my first year as mayor and we maintained a balanced budget for all eight years during my two terms in office.
DSF: When did you run for U. S. Congress?
CT: In 2002 and was sworn into office in 2003. I’m currently serving my second term. As a Congressman, I serve on the Armed Service Committee, which focuses on the war on terror, and chair a task force on urban issues for the Speaker of the House.
DSF: Do you stay in touch with your chapter brothers?
CT: Most certainly. I made a number of good friendships during college that are still important to me today.
DSF: What is your most fond memory of your undergraduate days?
CT: One summer I stayed with a few brothers on campus and the University attempted to close the house. Allen James, who was the Fraternity’s Executive Director at the time, came to ONU and helped the Alpha Eta Chapter stay open. I have a lot of respect for Allen.
DSF: Who has been most influential in your life?
CT: My parents. Both were very dedicated to education as a way to achieve your goals.
DSF: What advice do you have for Delta Sig undergraduates?
CT: Approach everyday as one where you aren’t closing any doors. Regardless of your major and what you believe you want to do in your future, look to maximize the opportunities you have in front of you.
Congressman Turner lives in Dayton, OH with his wife Lori and two daughters.
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