Tom Albus '90 with sons Billy (left) and Charlie.
Tom Albus '90 is like many young fathers. An Assistant U.S. Attorney, he and his wife, Alicia, spend much of their time with their four children, frequenting athletic, school and social activities. When he is able, he enjoys traveling, playing golf and going to Cardinals baseball games.
Unlike half of American adults, however, Albus has planned for his future by creating a will—something that provides peace of mind not only for himself, but also for his family.
"It is so easy to do," says Albus. "It protects our loved ones and also allows us to be mindful of things that are important."
Albus included St. Louis University High School among those "things" that are dear to him by remembering his alma mater in his estate. The school, he says, was essential in his formation as a "man for others."
During high school, Albus played football and tennis, and he was active with the yearbook, Prep News, theater and campus ministry.
"The teachers were always challenging me and setting higher expectations," he recalls. "They were excellent role models—people like Fr. Bailey, Mrs. McConaghy, Mr. Aylward and Mr. Linhares. I want Jr. Bills to have this same opportunity in the future."
According to Albus, charitable giving extends beyond doing the "right thing." "It is an act of faith formation," he says. "In giving to others, I trust that God will provide for my family and me."
After SLUH, Albus earned his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and his law degree from the University of Missouri. He worked at Bryan Cave for a few years, and since 2002 has prosecuted cases for the U.S. Department of Justice.
"It's gratifying to resolve issues and seek justice," says Albus, whose boss is U.S. Attorney Richard Callahan '65. "Every day I strive to do what I learned at St. Louis University High by working to be part of the solution."
Today, Albus increasingly focuses his efforts on cases involving identity theft, which he refers to as the "new dope" for criminals. Fraudulent tax returns, for instance, account for billions of stolen government dollars. He and his team diligently work to thwart these criminal activities and bring them to justice.
At times, his work agenda—coupled with his busy family schedule as a husband, father, coach and mentor—seems all-consuming. Amid the stress and busy-ness of his daily life, however, he takes some solace in his and his family's future, knowing that his estate will be in the right hands at the appropriate time.
Just as Albus sought protection in the pocket as a quarterback at SLUH, he has gained protection far more measurable as an adult by creating a will—that of his future.
Learn How You Can Help
If you would like to give back to St. Louis University High School with a planned gift, contact Melissa Jones, CFRE at 314-269-2186 or mjones@sluh.org. We would be happy to help you find the gift that's right for you, at no obligation.
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