Most students struggle with just one demanding commitment. Austin Beam (Iowa, ‘26) chose two and excels at both. By day, he’s a biomedical engineering major and Division I cheerleader; by night he’s the president of the Lambda Chi Alpha Chapter at Iowa. Balancing these two demanding roles wasn’t something he ever planned, but it’s become the defining rhythm of his college career. Together, those roles shape a version of leadership built on planning, communication, and an unwavering sense of loyalty to the people who count on him most.
Beam’s path to the Big Ten sidelines started long before college. He grew up in competitive gymnastics, spending years building the strength, discipline, and focus that would eventually carry him into cheerleading. By his sophomore year of high school, he made the switch, a decision that’s now shaped seven years of his life. What began as a new challenge became a foundation for the way he leads today, giving him a deep understanding of teamwork, communication, and how to bring out the best in the people around him.
Knowing how much of his time would be devoted to the cheer team and his demanding major, Beam wasn’t planning to join any other clubs or organizations that would require him to devote a ton of time to it. But one of his high school cheer teammates had a Chapter in Lambda Chi Alpha. After some encouragement, and persistent invites to rush events, Beam decided to check it out. He enjoyed the experience, and ultimately joined Lambda Chi Alpha, finding a second family alongside his cheer team.
Since joining, Beam took full advantage of what Lambda Chi had to offer. With influence from his time in gymnastics and as a cheerleader, it was natural for him to want to take on a leadership role. He first served as the social chair (High Epsilon) for his Chapter, then was elected President (High Alpha) two years in a row.
Beam attributes the growth of his leadership style to his time in cheer and gymnastics. Both sports, often misunderstood or underestimated, taught him the value of understanding and communicating with people from different backgrounds. These experiences gave him insight into how to motivate others and adapt his communication to different personalities, vital skills for a Chapter president managing a large, diverse group of Members.
Beam spoke warmly about his Chapter’s brotherhood and community. Over his four years, he’s seen growth and transformation. While not every year was perfect, he said that everyone genuinely likes each other. There’s mutual respect, authentic friendship, and a culture of wanting to see each other succeed.
He described the Chapter as a tight-knit, diverse, and active group, a place where there’s always someone to do something with. Whether it’s hiking, hanging out, or working together, there’s a constant sense of connection and belonging.
As Beam prepares for graduation, he reflects on what he hopes to leave behind: a spirit of openness and willingness to take risks. He wants younger members to never say no to anything, to embrace new experiences, opportunities, and people. His belief is that unexpected moments often lead to the most meaningful connections, whether that’s a future career opportunity, friendship, or even a lifelong relationship.
In many ways, Beam’s journey comes full circle: the student-athlete who never intended to rush became the president who helped strengthen a Chapter, all while representing Iowa on some of the biggest stages in college athletics. The same rhythm that carries him through packed game days and late-night study sessions carries him through Brotherhood as well, a steady blend of discipline, energy, and heart. Beam never set out to juggle two worlds, but by embracing both, he has created a college experience defined not by limitation but by possibility. In doing so, he has shown his Brothers, and himself, what it truly looks like to lead with spirit.
