Homecoming King calls it a “group accomplishment”

Towle, a member of Alpha Tau Omega from Westfield, Ind., was introduced as king at Air Jam, one of the most highly anticipated Homecoming events, held in John R. Emens Auditorium. After the 21 acts performed, Towle was named king along with Homecoming queen Morgan Smith.

“All I remember is looking at [royalty chairwoman] Kalyn Long and hearing Chi Omega and Alpha Tau Omega go absolutely insane in the crowd,” he said.

The senior sociology and history major said while he expected to have fun throughout the nomination and judging process, he did not expect to win.

“Being named as a top-10 candidate was unexpected and suspenseful to say the least,” he said. “From there I was just hoping to make court. I didn’t think for a second I would be named king.”

As for being nominated for king in the first place, Towle said the nomination “just kind of happened.”

Towle recalled his nomination back in the spring. Matt Schafer, Alpha Tau Omega president, told Towle to sign a document because it was necessary for the fraternity.

Little did Towle know this was the document that would eventually lead him to the Homecoming throne. After signing the document, Schafer told him that we was being nominated on behalf of Alpha Tau Omega for Homecoming king.

Towle said members of his fraternity were his biggest supporters.

“To me, it’s more of a group accomplishment, not an individual achievement,” he said.

Towle is also the president and starting goalie for the Ball State men’s lacrosse team. For the past four years, Towle has spent time back at Westfield High School volunteering as the men’s lacrosse coach.

Alpha Tau Omega member Bryce Loughman said Towle’s best attributes are his involvement with extracurriculars and having an almost heroic persona.

Colin Warner, another fraternity brother who considers John to be a best friend, said he was amazed John was announced as king but wasn’t all that surprised.

“John is the type of guy who would do anything for anybody,” he said. “He’s got so many friends and a dynamite personality. It’s really no wonder he was awarded with that golden crown.”