AUGUST 2025 NEWSLETTER

Celebrate Antonio’s birthday by continuing his legacy of compassionate leadership

A few months ago, I was preparing for a presentation at a local school. Although I usually present with one of the ambassadors, I was on my own for this event. Yet, every time I spoke with the school counselors, I kept saying “we” and “us” when describing the plans. Finally, the counselor admitted that she was confused about who was presenting!  I realized at that moment that I never feel like I am working alone in my efforts for ATLF.

Antonio’s spirit and memory is so present that every moment feels like “we” are doing it together.

This month, I invite you to celebrate Antonio’s birthday and the gift he was to our family, our organization, and the world. Many people were deeply touched by his beautiful light and energy.  I am so grateful for the 18 years he shared his physical presence with all of us. I miss him every day, but I am touched by how many people continue to be inspired by him.

ATLF was born of tragedy, but today it also reflects Antonio’s spirit, energy, and leadership. The ATLF Ambassador program was developed not only to educate young adults about the dangers of hazing, but to inspire them to become compassionate leaders who will lead groups and organizations into a more promising future.

As human beings and leaders, we are always faced with choices. Are we going to engage in old and primitive practices or are we going to inspire change and be the voice for compassion? Will we create spaces where everyone can grow and thrive? Can we dare to challenge old and dangerous traditions to inspire compassionate and uplifting ones?

Today, to mark Antonio’s birthday, please join us in celebrating him by choosing an action to build a more compassionate future.

●      Donate to ATLF to support our efforts to train more compassionate leaders and educate young people about the dangers of hazing at AntonioTsialasFoundation.org 

●      Join our 2025-26 cohort of ATLF Ambassadors.  Email info@antoniotsialasfoundation.com for more details.

●      Lift the veil of secrecy, by starting a conversation with your friends or family about hazing

●      Ask the leaders at your school if they are open to hosting our leadership training or hazing prevention seminars.

●      Always choose love and compassion and say yes to life!

Thank you for leading with love and compassion.

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Antonio Continues to Inspire

Antonio’s story continues to be at the heart of our work at ATLF.  Today, many student leaders are inspired by his example, his story and his legacy.

“As we celebrate Antonio's birthday, I realize that his legacy affects me in a positive way every day. I hope on this special day everyone will take a moment to honor Antonio's legacy, reflect on how he was a compassionate leader, and consider how you can model that leadership in your own life.”

 -Michael Bittner McPherson

"Antonio raised the bar for many. He led the path for many, and during his new journey, he will light up the sky for many."

-Sophie Sepheri

"Antonio was a leader and a dear friend. He's left a lasting impact on me. I will miss him dearly!"

-Nico Sabogal

"Antonio was one of the first people to make me feel included at Ransom Everglades. We will always carry his light, his legacy with us, because he changed our lives.”

-Natalia Lopez

“I’ll always remember when my mother told me about Antonio Tsialas. My eyes were watery by the end of the story, and I clearly recall how scared I was of having anyone I loved experience hazing like Antonio did. I felt a strong connection to Antonio’s story, and I knew I wanted to get involved.”

-Ella Barnett

"I want to be an ambassador for the Antonio Tsialas Leadership Foundation because I care about making sure no one has to go through hazing. Antonio’s story really touched me. What happened to him shouldn’t happen to anyone."

-Isabella Ugalde Edgar

“My heart breaks for not only Antonio but everyone who knew him and loved him. To be able to prevent future students from the dangers in college communities would be transformative.”

-Emma Velzquez