Delta Sigma Phi–Epsilon Beta alumnus John Close, Wisconsin-Oshkosh '72, served as keynote speaker for the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh's 2026 Spring Commencement ceremony, addressing an audience of more than 4,000 that filled the Kolf Fieldhouse on the UWO campus.

Now retired from a career as a Motorsports Media and Marketing Specialist that followed his Radio-TV-Film studies at UWO, completed in 1976, John remains closely connected to his alma mater. He returns each year during Homecoming to lecture and mentor current students, and he is presently working to build out professional internship opportunities for the university, an extension of the recognition he earned in 2024, when UWO honored him with its Distinguished Alumni Award and the Epsilon Beta chapter inducted him into its Hall of Fame.

Above: John is pictured with UWO Chancellor Manohar Singh at this past May's commencement ceremony.