Connecting Generations of Leaders: CEOs Against Cancer Members Join Mizzou AEPi to Kick Off Rock-A-Thon Season

When business leaders and emerging leaders come together around a shared mission, the opportunity to make an impact extends far beyond the moment.

Members of the American Cancer Society's CEOs Against Cancer St. Louis Chapter recently traveled to the University of Missouri in Columbia to join the brothers of Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) for a special evening of leadership, mentorship, and philanthropy as the fraternity kicked off preparations for its 2027 Rock-A-Thon fundraising campaign.

The evening brought together experienced business executives and college students for dinner and an engaging leadership panel discussion. CEO Chapter members shared insights from their professional journeys, offering perspectives on leadership, career development, overcoming challenges, building meaningful relationships, and the importance of giving back to the communities they serve.

For the AEPi brothers, the gathering provided a unique opportunity to connect directly with accomplished executives, ask questions, and gain valuable advice as they prepare to become the next generation of business and community leaders.

A Tradition of Giving Back

The Mizzou AEPi Rock-A-Thon has a remarkable history dating back to 1969. What began as a student-led philanthropic effort has grown into one of the fraternity's most meaningful traditions, raising more than $1.5 million in support of the American Cancer Society.

Held every other year, Rock-A-Thon challenges one fraternity brother to remain in a rocking chair for 63 consecutive hours in downtown Columbia while fellow members rally the community to support the fight against cancer.

In 2025, the fraternity raised more than $212,000 to support pancreatic cancer research. Looking ahead to 2027, the brothers are preparing to focus their fundraising efforts on colorectal cancer research, continuing their longstanding commitment to advancing the American Cancer Society's mission.

Building the Next Generation of Leaders

For the CEOs Against Cancer Chapter, the visit represented more than an opportunity to support an important fundraising campaign. It was an investment in the next generation of leaders who will shape businesses, communities, and philanthropic efforts for years to come.

The leadership panel reinforced a powerful message: successful leadership is not measured solely by professional accomplishments, but also by the positive impact leaders create for others.

By sharing their experiences and engaging in meaningful conversations with students, CEO Chapter members demonstrated the importance of mentorship, community involvement, and using one's influence to make a difference.

Leadership That Makes a Difference

The American Cancer Society is grateful to the brothers of Alpha Epsilon Pi for their extraordinary dedication to the fight against cancer and to the CEO Chapter members who invested their time in supporting and mentoring these young leaders.

As preparations for the 2027 Rock-A-Thon continue, the partnership serves as a reminder that philanthropy and leadership go hand in hand. Whether leading a Fortune 500 company or organizing a student fundraising campaign, every leader has the opportunity to inspire others and create lasting change.

Together, we are not only raising funds to fight cancer. We are helping develop the leaders who will carry that mission forward for generations to come.

Learn more about the upcoming 2027 Rock-A-Thon and how you can support the campaign at www.mizzourockathon.com.