Tau Kappa Epsilon
Kappa Tau Chapter // The University of Arizona
With more than 40 years of success in sales, leadership, and business development, John Najarian has built a distinguished career across multiple industries while staying grounded in the values and relationships that shaped him during his time at the University of Arizona.
John earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1983, but his journey was defined by much more than academics. As an undergraduate, John embraced every opportunity to lead and contribute to campus life. He served as President of the Kappa Tau Chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE), Rush Chairman—earning the TKE National Award for Top Teke Rush—and Little Sister Chairman, while also receiving the Kappa Tau Chapter Top Teke Award.
Outside the fraternity, John was deeply involved in university life, serving as IFC Chairperson, a U of A Letterman, a member of the U of A Track and Field team, and even part of the U of A Cheer Squad.
Professionally, John has forged an exceptional path, working across industries in roles that highlight his sales expertise, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial drive. Over the years, he’s held key positions at organizations including Hilti, General Medical, Advance Machine Co., ASGCO, CQMS Razer, Penntek, and more, ultimately culminating in his current role as Regional Manager for Nilfisk. Along the way, he has earned numerous sales and leadership awards, reflecting his ability to build lasting client relationships and deliver consistent results.
John’s entrepreneurial spirit shone early on when he owned and operated Toledo T-Shirt Company while attending U of A, and later as a co-owner of Foster and Lake, further demonstrating his dedication to innovation and growth.
Beyond his career, John has remained closely connected to TKE and the Kappa Tau Chapter. He participated in the first recolonization process of the chapter and contributed to key decisions surrounding the 1322 E. 1st Street chapter house, where so many formative memories were made.
Reflecting on what TKE has meant to him, John shares a heartfelt perspective: “I grew up in a household with two sisters and never understood what a brother was. My experiences with TKE-KT made it clear what true brotherhood means. As a student, I was fortunate to have mentors and a support system that guided me through challenges. Without their advice, encouragement, and belief in me, I might have returned to Ohio without a degree. I truly made friends for life at TKE-KT.”
For today’s undergraduate brothers, John offers timeless advice:
“Capitalize on the education, relationships, and opportunities available to you. Keep a positive attitude, be kind to those around you, and if you don’t like something, always offer an alternative solution—with enthusiasm.”
Today, John lives in Granada Hills, California with his wife, Robina Markari, and is the proud father of Daniel and Sohia Najarian. While his professional accomplishments are impressive, it’s his enduring relationships, mentorship, and dedication to the TKE brotherhood that continue to define his legacy.
