Committed to Lead

It’s hard to imagine a more unlikely person as your new Supreme Prior. As an undergraduate at the University of Minnesota, I enjoyed my time in Sigma Alpha Mu; it was memorable, meaningful, and at the time, I thought it ended when I graduated.

Fast forward and after leaving a 20-year career in the nonprofit world, I attended the 2018 Sammy Convention in Chicago. I didn’t know a single soul there, but what I found changed everything.

The energy in the room was contagious: undergraduates engaged in real conversations, eager to participate and learn, surrounded by dedicated volunteers who cared deeply about the future of the Fraternity. That weekend sowed the seeds of my renewed involvement, and ultimately led me here today.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving under Past Supreme Priors Dan Grossberg, Jerry Conrey, and Dave Kleppel, each a model of commitment and enthusiasm. I’ve also been fortunate to work closely with our Executive Director, Andy Huston, and Jackie Gellinger, along with the rest of our staff who bring such dedication to Sigma Alpha Mu’s mission.

The number eight holds special meaning for Sigma Alpha Mu - eight founders, eight altars of values, eight members of the Octagon. In that spirit, I believe there are four key priorities that we must double down on to ensure our continued growth and success. After all, four doubled equals eight.

1. Double Our Undergraduate Membership - We’ve seen encouraging growth over the past few years, but we can’t rest on our success. We must nurture our existing chapters, identify new expansion opportunities, and maintain a laser focus on bringing more men into Sigma Alpha Mu. This means partnering closely with our Foundation to provide scholarships and resources that encourage involvement, and collaborating with our Endowment Fund to develop and finance strategic initiatives that fuel growth.

The journey won’t be instant, but every step forward lays the groundwork for the future.

2. Double Alumni Involvement - Our alumni are the backbone of the Fraternity. We need to expand our outreach and create new, meaningful ways for alumni to engage through mentoring, volunteering, and programming. Their involvement supports and enriches the undergraduate experience and strengthens the lifelong bonds that make our brotherhood unique.

3. Double Chapter Housing - Housing is one of the most tangible investments we can make in our chapters’ success. Through our National Properties and Property Management entity, we’ve made great progress, but we can go further. By raising funds and creating new opportunities for acquisition and renovation, we can ensure that our chapters have strong homes that anchor their presence on campus.

4. Double Our Support - We must double our financial support for the Fraternity. Giving generously, at any level, sustains our programs, leadership development, and long-term stability. In the coming weeks, you will be asked to support the Bridge Builder Campaign and the ΣAM Foundation. I hope that we can count on you to make a meaningful contribution.

There are significant opportunities ahead, and we are well positioned to turn potential into reality. Together, we can grow, strengthen, and sustain Sigma Alpha Mu for generations to come. When we double down on our values, our engagement, and our commitment, we can make a difference. I look forward to working together as we help ensure a strong future for Sigma Alpha Mu.

Supreme Prior Benji Bearman