Octagonian- Winter 2024

Octagonian the

Blueprint For Impact

Through strategic growth and infrastructure advancements, Sigma Alpha Mu is building a sustainable, impactful brotherhood for future generations, grounded in the values that shaped its formation. Page 8

WINTER 2024

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity

Sammy Stories

Written by

Dave P. Kleppel

When I began by service as Sigma Alpha Mu’s Supreme Prior I dedicated this column to sharing with you stories from our members that remind us of who we are and what we stand for. This is probably going to be my final opportunity to share such a story with you here. I expect to finish my term as Supreme Prior next summer and then spend my final year on the Octagon supporting my successor. I want to thank you all for the honor and privilege of allowing me to serve our organization. I look forward to continuing to serve and support ΣAM in the future as opportunities arise to do so.

The plan for this issue of the Octagonian was to share stories about Sammys who have made a difference in our world. While we certainly have many such stories, I have chosen this one because it is truly inspirational. I cannot take credit for “saving the best for last” because, in fact, this story just happened only 2 months ago.

On Friday September 27, 2024 Fra Eddie Hunnell (Sigma Omega, ’86) was in Grassy Creek, NC for his son’s wedding taking place that weekend. Unfortunately, so was Hurricane Helene. On that afternoon Fra Hunnell risked his life to save Leslie Worth, a 67-year old retired woman who was trapped in her flooded house. Here are Eddie’s words describing what happened that day:

“…While preparing for the rehearsal dinner and watching the rain come down and the river rise, we heard about Leslie being trapped in her house. We ran over to see if we could help. The water was running fast and up about 15 feet at the time. We did not have any way to get Leslie out. She was wearing a life vest. I yelled to her that if the house started moving, to jump downstream ahead

Repairing The World

of the house. About 2 minutes later the roof of another house floated down the river and hit her house. 2 minutes after that her house came off its foundation and started being carried away by the high water. It crashed into some trees then started coming apart, dumping its contents into the river. I yelled to Leslie to jump in. Thankfully she did. I was in a canoe and tried to paddle to her but I could not control the canoe sufficiently with the current and the wind blowing. I also had a life vest on and did not see another way to help so I jumped in and grabbed ahold of her as she came down the fast current. The next 200 yards had very fast-moving water with obstructions, including a tennis court surrounded by a fence, and then some trees. There was no use doing anything but riding that part out. Beyond that was a 200-yard stretch without obstructions. I told Leslie to lean back and I swam sidestroke as hard as I could, pulling on her life vest collar. While we were still about 40 feet out after about 20 feet the current almost stopped and then there was a back eddy. I knew then we would make it. Ten more feet and I could touch the ground. We walked out of the river to everyone's relief…”

Eddie was confronted with an emergency and didn’t have much time to think. His selflessness, bravery, respect for human life, quick-thinking and commitment to serving a higher purpose were reflex reactions that enabled him to saving Leslie Worth’s life. I cannot think of a better example that demonstrates what Sigma Alpha Mu’s values are intended to inspire. For his actions we have awarded Eddie with Sigma Alpha Mu’s Heroism Award and will be arranging

a proper presentation of the award and a celebration of him.

Our Fraternity has given us many things, and one of the the most valuable is an appreciation that everything going on in and around our lives isn’t solely about ourselves. And it doesn’t require an emergency life-and-death situation for each of us to make a difference out there. We all regularly see people around us who are in need of help. Simple things like volunteering to tutor struggling students at a local school, helping to clean up litter in your community, volunteering to spend time with lonely/frightened people at an elder care facility or a children’s hospital, providing financial support to worthy causes, etc. can make a positive difference for those you are helping and also for you.

Eddie's actions of September 27th are an example of living ideals that result in actions worthy of the highest precepts of true manhood, democracy and humanity. I hope that they inspire for each of us to continue making positive contributions to our world.

Fast and Firm,

Dave P. Kleppel

Supreme Prior

ON THE COVER

Supreme Prior Dave Kleppel attends the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Beta Chapter's new home at Cornell University.

(Washington University, '82), Supreme Prior

OCTAGON

Supreme Prior: David P. Kleppel (Blacklick, OH)

Vice Supreme Prior: Dean Lambert (New Haven, CT)

Supreme Exchequer: Benjamin Bearman (Skokie, IL)

Supreme Recorder: Douglas G. Montgomery (Kyle, TX)

Consul: Bruce Harris (Pikesville, MD)

Consul: Evan Remer (Bexley, OH)

Consul: David Sackler (Scottsdale, AZ)

Young Alumnus Consul: Zackary L. Newman (Pensacola, FL)

Undergraduate Advisory Committee

Joey Barke (Sigma Chi, '21)

Alex Zielsdorf (Mu Psi, '23)

Sam Hollander (Eta, '24)

ENDOWMENT FUND

Chairman: David H. PhillIps (Westerville, OH)

Vice Chairman: Marc E. Perlstein (Richardson, TX)

Secretary: John Ale (Houston, TX)

Treasurer: David S. Rice (Chicago, IL)

Trustee: Jerry Goldberg (Mount Laurel, NJ)

Trustee: Ira Rubenstein (Arlington, VA)

Trustee: Robert Byron (Chicago, IL)

FOUNDATION

President: Robert S. Weiss (Edmond, OK)

Vice President: Dennis G. Paese (Newburgh, NY)

Treasurer: James Ryan Robertson (Fishers, IN)

Secretary: John A. Paine (Los Altos, CA)

Director: Robert B. Fagenson (New York, NY)

Director: Nelson B. France (Fairfax, VA)

Director: Leland E. Garrett, Jr., MD (Raleigh, NC)

Director: Ronald S. Katch (Highland Park, IL)

Director: Steven B. Kahn (Miramar, FL)

Director: Offer Korin (Indianapolis, IN)

Director: Lawrence J. Leib (Farmington Hills, MI)

Director: Nate B. Locklin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Director: Evan L. Lubline (Zionsville, IN)

Director: Hanno D. Mott (New York, NY)

Director: Roy M. Neulicht (Raleigh, NC)

Director: Andrew M. Paley (Dallas, TX)

Director: Marc E. Perlstein (Richardson, TX)

Director: David H. Phillips (Westerville, OH)

Director: David S. Rice (Chicago, IL)

Director: Bradley C. Unger (Wilton, CT)

Director: Richard H. Williamson (St. Simons Island, GA)

Director: Lawrence B. Wittels (St. Louis, MO)

CANADIAN FOUNDATION

President: Barry S. Arbus (Toronto, ON)

Secretary: Howard Book (Toronto, ON)

Treasurer: Howard Kornblum (Toronto, ON)

sam.org

sam-fdn.org

sam.org/chapter-roll sam.org/staff

8701 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 (317) 789-8338

ACTIVE CHAPTER ROLL

BETA – Cornell

Cincinnati

SIGMA ZETA – Indiana SIGMA ETA - Purdue SIGMA THETA – Texas SIGMA IOTA – Michigan SIGMA OMICRON – Nebraska

SIGMA CHI – Maryland

SIGMA OMEGA – North Carolina State

ETA – Drexel

OMICRON - New York University

PI – Colorado

CHI – Michigan State

PSI – Miami OH BETA GAMMA – Arizona BETA IOTA – Wisconsin

BETA PSI – Virginia

BETA OMEGA – Kentucky Wesleyan

GAMMA EPSILON – Illinois Chicago

GAMMA KAPPA – Texas A&M

GAMMA RHO – UC-San Diego

GAMMA TAU – Florida

GAMMA PHI – Arizona State

GAMMA CHI – Brandeis

GAMMA PSI – Temple

DELTA BETA – American DELTA ZETA – Florida International

DELTA PI – Ottawa

DELTA UPSILON – UNLV

DELTA OMEGA – RIT

EPSILON ALPHA – Stephen F. Austin

EPSILON GAMMA – Illinois State

EPSILON DELTA- Johnson & Wales

EPSILON EPSILON – SUNY-Geneseo

EPSILON NU – Connecticut

EPSILON XI – Emory

EPSILON PI – Rhode Island

EPSILON RHO – Clemson

Expansion Efforts:

GAMMA SIGMA - Binghamton

SIGMA DELTA - Rutgers

KAPPA XI KAPPA - New Jersey Institute of Technology

Stay tuned for more details and registration information!

Dates: July 25-27, 2025

Dates: July 25-27, 2025

Location: Minneapolis, Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota Minnesota

In this Issue

have

You Heard

Discover their inspiring stories: Fra Prabhakar received a Young Alumni Award from UPenn; Fra Hunnell heroically rescued a woman trapped in flood waters; Fra Bartner being inducted into the USC Hall of Fame; and Fra Weiss was announced as an inductee into the Edmond Hall of Fame.

STATE of the Fraternity

Executive Director Andy Huston highlights ΣAM’s growth through the ΣAM 2030 Strategic Plan, including rising membership, new chapters, recruitment tools, housing milestones, and sustainable funding to ensure a thriving, values-driven fraternity.

around the Chapters

Discover each chapter's results for current membership and fall recruitment. In this issue, each chapter shares how they have developed a sense of community. You can also find out which chapters need your volunteer help as a chapter advisor.

Σ AM MAN OF THE YEAR

Michael P. Krasny (Rho, '73) is our 2024 Achievement Award recipient. Krasny founded CDW in 1984 at the age of 29. Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO, he grew CDW into a Fortune 500 company and the nation's largest direct marketer of multi-brand computer products for business.

By 2007, when CDW was sold to a private equity firm for $7.3 billion, it employed more than 5,600 people.

"Sammys changed my life," Krasny shared when reflecting on the significance of accepting this award.

Have You Heard

Fra Prabhakar

Penn Alumni honored eight distinguished alumni with the Penn Alumni Award of Merit and a notable faculty member with the Faculty Award of Merit at the 2024 Alumni Award of Merit Gala on Friday, November 15. Deepak Prabhakar (Theta, '08), who earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the School of Engineering and Applied Science in 2011 and 2012 respectively, received the Young Alumni Award for his work rallying alumni around reunions, campaigns, and volunteer activities as the Class of 2011 president since 2016. He earned the Penn Alumni Student Award of Merit in 2011 in recognition of his involvement and leadership as an undergraduate in numerous groups, including the Penn Traditions Undergraduate Board, the Senior Class Executive Board to the Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity, and the Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity.

Fra Hunnell

Fra Hunnell (Sigma Omega ’86), pictured on the right, was honored for heroism during Hurricane Helene. Eddie Hunnell, a man of extraordinary bravery, will be honored with Sigma Alpha Mu’s Heroism Award for his courageous actions during Hurricane Helene. While visiting Grassy Creek, North Carolina, for his son’s wedding, Eddie jumped into action as floodwaters from the New River swept away homes. Upon hearing that a woman, Leslie Worth, was trapped in a collapsing house, Eddie risked his life to save hers.

Initially, Eddie attempted to reach Leslie using a canoe. However, the swift current and debris made the journey impossible. Recognizing the danger, Eddie then armed himself with a life jacket and rope before swimming through the raging waters to reach Leslie after she had jumped from her house. Navigating dangerous rapids, Eddie guided her safely to shore, where she was reunited with her husband. Despite losing all of their belongings, the couple expressed their gratitude to Eddie, attending his son’s rehearsal dinner as special guests.

Eddie’s heroic act exemplifies selflessness and courage in the face of nature’s fury, ensuring that lives were saved during this disaster.

Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize Eddie for his remarkable heroism. His actions serve as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have in a moment of crisis.

Fra Bartner

Arthur C. Bartner (Sigma Iota, '59), the legendary director of the USC Trojan Marching Band, retired in 2020 after 50 years of extraordinary leadership. Beginning his tenure in 1970, Bartner transformed the band into a nationally celebrated institution, blending tradition with innovation and earning it the nickname "The Spirit of Troy."

Under his leadership, the Trojan Marching Band became known for its high-energy performances and precision, performing at the Olympics, Super Bowls, and alongside world-famous artists like Fleetwood Mac and Beyoncé. Bartner’s ability to elevate the band’s profile and inspire generations of students cemented its reputation as one of the premier collegiate marching bands.

In recognition of his incredible contributions, Bartner was inducted into the USC Hall of Fame in 2011. Reflecting on his career, he said, “Leading this band has been the honor of my lifetime. Together, we’ve built something that transcends music and sport—it’s about family, pride, and representing the very best of USC.”

Though Bartner retired four years ago, his legacy remains everpresent. The traditions, passion, and excellence he instilled continue to define the Trojan Marching Band. As the band’s iconic fight song echoes through stadiums, it stands as a lasting tribute to his visionary leadership and enduring spirit.

Fra Weiss

Bob Weiss (Sigma Alpha, '75) has been anounced as one of 5 Inductees into the 2025 Edmond Hall of Fame! These recipients will be honored at the Annual Awards and Hall of Fame Banquet in Edmond, Oklahoma.

A successful entrepreneur with 47 years in business, Bob has launched 32 ventures, including the enduring Othello’s Italian Restaurant. His leadership extends to nonprofit roles, guided by his motto, "Doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.”

Bob is a past president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City and current serves as Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation's President.

Share Your update

Submit your updates, accomplishments, or stories for the "Have You Heard?" segment of The Octagonian or our digital "Frater In Focus" series on social media. Whether it’s career milestones, chapter events, or personal achievements, we’d love to spotlight your accomplishments and keep the fraternity connected. Send us your news today!

Visit sam.org/heard to submit your story.

Sigma Alpha Mu is posting regularly on social media. We encourage you to find us, friend us, and follow us.

State of the Fraternity

Andy Huston

Written by (Minnesota, '01), Executive Director

Charting a Future of Growth, Resilience, and Brotherhood

Overcoming adversity is woven into the very fabric of Sigma Alpha Mu. It’s part of our founding story: eight sophomores from the College of the City of New York gathered to discuss how they would regain their honor after being bested by a freshman class. Today’s challenges—rising antisemitism, anti-Greek sentiment, and broader distrust in institutions—may look different, but our fraternity remains as committed as ever to providing a safe space where young men can face challenges, build resilience, and learn the value of collaboration. This spirit of perseverance and problem-solving is as much a part of ΣAM’s DNA now as it was over a century ago.

The ΣAM 2030 Strategic Plan sets ambitious goals to reshape the fraternity and align it with the aspirations of Gen Z and beyond. At its core, ΣAM 2030 envisions transforming Sigma Alpha Mu into a welcoming and supportive community that enriches the college experience and prepares members for fulfilling lives. ΣAM’s core beliefs— Simplicity, Holiness, Purity, Justice, Sincerity, Fraternalism, Idealism, and Truth—serve as a steadfast foundation for new initiatives that embrace diversity, shape character development, and promote strategic growth. Our infrastructure goals reflect ΣAM’s commitment to organizational sustainability and efficiency. By leveraging our scale, we can provide essential tools and support to all chapters, ensuring smooth operations and a high-quality experience for members. As a result of this strategic priority, the Octagon adopted a recruitment CRM (customer relationship management)

software called ChapterBuilder for all chapters. Most businesses today operate a CRM platform to organize and manage customer interactions, track sales pipelines, automate marketing campaigns, and improve customer service, with the goal of increasing sales and retention. The same is true of ChapterBuilder. The added bonus is that we are providing hands-on professional development experience to undergraudate members as they manage this user-friendly platform. Recruitment teams able to manage their list of prospective members leads with greater efficiency. Our chapters can also get immediate and direct access to hundreds of men on campus who have signed up for fraternity recruitment, due to ChapterBuilder’s campus partnerships. Gone are the days of waiting for IFC to share a list and then manually entering data for

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Undergraduate members, staff, and volunteers gathered to work on a service project at the 2024 Convention. Laurel Elementary School needed assistance with preparing the school for the upcoming school yearl; a project that included cleaning out old equipment, school rooms, and closets; as well as hanging up decorations, painting materials and assembling books for students to use. Photo Credit: Matthew Ray, Communications Manager

follow-up. Chapters are able use data-driven insights ensure focus high-quality potential new members and streamline outreach efforts - including text messaging through ChapterBuilder. This platform is adaptable to any chapter size or campus environment. While technology can’t solve every challenge in recruitment, finances, and operations, we are teaching students leverage these applications as leaders.

ΣAM remains dedicated to the sustainable growth of its chapters, focusing on both expansion and supporting established locations. This past year undergraduate membership increased by 323 fratres. With an average chapter size rising to 49.3 members, we’re nearly back to pre-COVID membership numbers. This fall's recruitment results point to even stronger growth ahead,

with more than 500 candidates reported. The establishment of new provisional chapters at Purdue and NYU in the past year opens up more opportunities for young men seeking a values-driven fraternity experience. We are also working with students to bring Sigma Alpha Mu to Rutgers (Sigma Delta), Binghamton (Gamma Sigma), and New Jersey Institute of Technology (Kappa Xi Kappa) this fall. In the case of Binghamton, Gil Goldstein didn’t find a home on campus among the active fraternities and reached out to the headquarters to learn how to go about the process of bringing Sammy back to Binghamton. He shared, “I want to be a founding father of Sigma Alpha Mu at Binghamton due to my devout Jewish heritage and the values that are instilled in a Jewish fraternity. My favorite part of Sigma Alpha Mu's vision is their dedication to the betterment of men which to me is something that I truly believe in.”

Did you know that less than half of our active chapters have a recognized chapter house? Sigma Alpha Mu’s housing initiatives aim to create environments where members can bond, grow, and lead. These investments in time and energy to secure housing reflect our commitment to meeting local chapter needs while fostering a strong sense of home and community. This fall, we celebrated the ribbon-cutting of Beta’s new chapter house at Cornell University. Sigma Chi chapter has secured 2 Fraternity Row at the University of Maryland—our historic home. This marks Sigma Chi’s first official chapter house since its refounding in

Our letters are finally back on #2 Fraternity Row at University of Maryland as Sigma Chi secures their historic home

2016. The successes at Beta and Sigma Chi were only possible due to the outstanding investment of time and resources by their alumni in partnership with the undergraduate members.

Sigma Alpha Mu is also optimizing revenue streams through diversified funding models to ensure a robust and financially sustainable future which includes Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation’s Chapter Educational Fund, the Bridge Builder Campaign, and launching an advertising opportunity in the Octagonian. These efforts provide alumni with a variety of opportunities to support the fraternity experience while making it more affordable for today’s college students. Our focus on financial health, alongside our other strategic initiatives, ensures that ΣAM will continue to provide an impactful, supportive fraternity experience for generations to come.

As alumni, we can all take pride in ΣAM’s direction and its commitment to adapting and thriving in changing times. Sigma Alpha Mu’s dedication to growth, resilience, and brotherhood is unwavering—and we look forward to a bright future built on these values.

Hunter Strager, Growth and Heritage Programming Manager, with new candidates at Rutgers University

Members of the Octagon joined students and alumni to welcome Kappa Xi Kappa at NJIT as our newest Provisional Chapter.

RICHIE H. WILLIAMSON Volunteer of The Year Award

A MODEL & EXEMPLARY VOLUNTEER

David S. Rice (Beta Iota/Gamma Epsilon, ’83) has been named the 2024 recipient of the Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award. The Fraternity’s mission relies heavily on the dedication, time, and talent of its alumni, who selflessly contribute to the advancement of Sigma Alpha Mu and the enrichment of its members.

Fra Rice's contributions this past year have been pivotal in maintaining the operations of the Fraternity. He has played a key role on Sigma Alpha Mu’s budget, finance, and audit committees, ensuring sound financial stewardship. His leadership extends to his role as Treasurer of the Endowment Fund. Additionally, David serves as a Director of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting the Fraternity and its philanthropic endeavors.

David’s service exemplifies the spirit of this award, and his work has had a profound and lasting impact on Sigma Alpha Mu.

2024 William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award

David H. Phillips’ Lifelong Commitment to Sigma Alpha Mu

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity was proud to announce David H. Phillips (Sigma Beta, ’80) as the 2024 recipient of the William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award. The award, considered the highest honor for service within Sigma Alpha Mu, recognizes alumni whose contributions to the Fraternity are of such lasting and exceptional quality as to merit the fraternity’s highest recognition.

Fraternity has been more than just an organization for David Phillips—it’s been a lifelong passion. As the son of Walter Phillips (Sigma Beta, ’47), a dedicated alumnus, David was introduced to Sigma Alpha Mu at an early age. He frequently attended conventions as a child, growing up surrounded by fraternity legends. These experiences nurtured his deep bond with Sigma Alpha Mu, which only grew stronger over the years.

Upon enrolling at The Ohio State University, David found his home in the Sigma Beta Chapter, where he quickly established himself as a leader. His involvement has only expanded since then, spanning decades of dedicated service. David’s contributions to Sigma Alpha Mu include: Chapter Advisor, House Corporation President, Regional Governor, Consul, Supreme Exchequer, Supreme Prior, Endowment Fund Trustee, Treasurer, and Chairman, Foundation Director and Vice President, and Co-Chairman of the Centennial Committee. In addition, David has led numerous committees, too many to name, with each role further cementing his legacy within the Fraternity.

Supporting Students Combating Antisemitism

Andy Huston

Written by (Minnesota, '01), Executive Director

This fall semester began under the shadow of uncertainty, as campuses across North America grappled with the aftershocks of the spring semester's encampments and rising antisemitic tensions. Sigma Alpha Mu recognized the need to prepare for a challenging environment. For students to thrive academically and socially, their foundational needs—safety, security, and mental well-being—must be met. This ties to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Sadly, for many Jewish students, concerns about physical safety and the emotional impact of recent events on campuses have made it increasingly difficult to feel secure.

This reality motivated us to invest in thoughtful planning and proactive initiatives over the summer, ensuring our members and their peers feel supported, empowered, and equipped to navigate this uncertain landscape. By addressing these challenges head-on, Sigma Alpha Mu is reaffirming its commitment to combating antisemitism, building allies, and fostering inclusive communities where all students can succeed.

Demanding Change

Understanding the gravity of rising antisemitism on college campuses, Sigma Alpha Mu joined forces with leading organizations like the AntiDefamation League (ADL), American Jewish Committee (AJC), the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CoP), Hillel International, and Jewish Federations of North America to advocate for a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at safeguarding

Jewish students and promoting a culture of inclusivity.

These key demands of university administrators included calling for immediate action to protect Jewish students, including:

• Developing comprehensive antisemitism strategies by adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and ensuring it informs university policies.

• Providing visible support to Jewish students by addressing incidents of bias in real time and denouncing antisemitism unequivocally.

• Establishing dedicated staff resources for Jewish student concerns, ensuring incidents of harassment or discrimination are handled sensitively and swiftly.

• Integrating antisemitism awareness into existing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs to ensure Jewish students are recognized within broader inclusion efforts.

These measures not only set a standard for universities but also align with Sigma Alpha Mu’s vision of being the first choice of collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life.

Educating for Empowerment

Education remains a cornerstone of Sigma Alpha Mu’s approach to combating antisemitism. This summer, our Convention delegates received expert-led training to understand the historical and contemporary impacts of antisemitism, particularly how it has affected our members in the past year. The training emphasized emotional

resilience through brotherhood and empowered all members—including nonJewish fratres—to recognize and support peers who may be struggling. We continue to host virtual educational programs to provide chapters and volunteers with timely and relevant information.

Building Allies

To expand this reach, Sigma Alpha Mu partnered with Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Beta Tau, and the ADL to train the headquarters staff of other fraternities and sororities on how to address antisemitism effectively. By engaging the entire Greek life community, we’re building a coalition of allies committed to fostering safe, inclusive campuses. As a co-host of the Summit Against Hate, held in conjunction with the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors annual meeting, Sigma Alpha Mu is sparking critical conversations about combating hate within the Greek life community with university administrators.

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The Israeli-ΣAM Flag Pin is available for purchase for $18. Proceeds support the fraternity’s continued programming against antisemitism, student safety, and Israel education.

Individual or group purchases may be made online at https://bit.ly/samflagpin or email israel@sam.org.

Supporting Chapters

Executive Director Andy Huston further amplified Sigma Alpha Mu’s influence by contributing to the ADL’s Campus Antisemitism Report Card. This initiative evaluates universities’ responses to antisemitism and provides actionable feedback to improve campus climates for Jewish students. This report card is instructive as the fraternity supports its chapters in the broader landscape of the institutional policies and responses to incidents. Additionally, through our partnership with the Piazza Center for Research on the Jewish Fraternity and Sorority Experience, we’re taking steps to ground our work in data to ensure we meet the needs of Jewish students.

A New Benchmark: ADL's Campus Report

This spring, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) released its inaugural Campus Antisemitism Report Card, evaluating 85 universities on their ability to combat antisemitism and foster supportive environments for Jewish students. Using criteria such as administrative policies, incident responses, and Jewish campus life, the report assigned grades ranging from A to F. While Brandeis University and Drexel University achieved top marks, schools like Harvard, UCLA, and UMichigan received failing grades. The findings reflect the complex and, at times, troubling reality

Sigma Alpha Mu has implemented tangible measures to support our members and their communities. These efforts are supporting safety and enhancing Jewish joy. We’ve raised funds for chapter security grants to enhance safety at chapter houses and continue evaluating property needs. Chapters are also leveraging Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation’s Jewish Endeavors Initiative grants to host impactful programs like the Israel Block Party at the University of Texas and collaborative events with Hillel and Chabad.

We also continue to promote the CALL initiative, that enables any student, family, faculty, or staff member to report antisemitic incidents quickly and easily.

By texting "CALLhelp" to 51555 or visiting legal-protection.org, individuals can access support and legal resources to address discrimination, harassment, or violence. Sigma Alpha Mu’s efforts continue to exemplify our values. By working with university administrators, parents, other organizations and community partners, we are advocating for safer, more welcoming campuses. As alumni, your continued support ensures that our fraternity remains a force for positive change, standing united against hate and fostering a future where all students feel safe, supported, and empowered. Together, we are making a lasting impact—on our members, our campuses, and the world.

for Jewish students navigating college campuses today.

ADL’s Campus Antisemitism Report Card is a tool for students, parents, alumni, college faculty, guidance counselors, admissions consultants and other stakeholders. Our goal is to serve students and their families looking for information about the current state of antisemitism on campus and how particular universities and colleges are responding.

ADL produced this Report Card during a time of incredible volatility on college campuses. It provides an annual assessment,

accompanied by periodic updates and a roadmap for improving the campus climate. This is Report Card version 1.0 and should be used in concert with other tools when making decisions about college.

Our analysis combines objective data with certain subjective impressions and analysis as well as our beliefs about how to weigh different factors. Reasonable people may disagree with these decisions.

For more information, visit the ADL’s full report at adl.org/campus-antisemitismreport-card

Convention 2024 Recap

Fraternity Business Awards

The 2024-2025 Octagon and Supreme Council were elected during the business meeting.

Supreme Prior David Kleppel*

Vice Supreme Prior Dean Lambert*

Supreme Exchequer Benji Bearman

Supreme Recorder Doug Montgomery

Consul Bruce Harris

Consul Evan Remer*

Consul David Sackler

Young Alumnus Consul Zackary Newman* (*) elected for a two-year term on the Octagon

Patrick James Wright, III concluded his two-year term as Young Alumnus Consul.

The Undergraduate Advisory Committee was elected by the undergraduate delegates:

Joey Barke (Sigma Chi, '21)

Alex Zielsdorf (Mu Psi, '23)

Sam Hollander (Eta, '24)

A series of legislation was approved to enhance the nominating committee, the annual financial review, clarified the separateness of entities, and defined use of the license of the fraternity’s insignia. First presented last summer, the Richard H Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award was codified in the Blue Book.

For additional information on awards and recipients, please visit sam.org/awardrecipients-2024

Supreme Prior's Trophy KappaUniversity of Minnesota

Supreme Prior's Trophy Epsilon DeltaJohnson & Wales University

Prior of the Year Jonah Goldfarb (Sigma Chi, 2022)

Prior of the Year Sammy Davis (Psi, 2022)

Vice Prior of the Year Chris Hempstead (Delta Pi, 2022)

Exchequer of the Year Alex Zielsdorf (Mu Psi, 2023)

Recorder of the Year Reese Hertel (Beta Psi, 2022)

Undergraduate Achievement Junior Sammy Davis (Psi, 2022)

Undergraduate Achievement Senior Eddie Norland (Psi, 2022)

Chapter Advisor Paul Turner (Delta Pi, 2018)

Education Impact

Education Committee Chairman Nick D’Addabbo and his committee designed an empowering weekend of content addressing topics of concern to our student delegates led by subject matter experts.

• Social Excellence: The Art of Human Connection

• Overcoming Adversity and AntiSemitism through Brotherhood and Support

• “Who’s Fork Is It Anyway” - Etiquette Training

• “Love, Mom and Dad” a Hazing Prevention Sessing by Rae Ann and Steve Gruver whose son died 2017 as a result of fraternity hazing.

• How to get grant and scholarship funding from SAM Foundation

The programs at Convention were intentionally selected to address the concerns voiced by our undergraduate members and help advance the values and strategic mission of Sigma Alpha Mu.

The 2024 Convention programming was supported by grants from the ΣAM Foundation & Endowment Fund. Created in 1985, the Bobbi and Sidney Guller Leadership Development Fund has made it possible to provide outstanding programming at Sigma Alpha Mu Leadership Conferences. Thank you to our generous donors who have helped make this program possible.

The 2024 Convention was held at the Loews Hotel in New Orleans, LA.

Epsilon Xi Chapter Wins Founders Cup

On the vibrant campus of Emory University, the Epsilon Xi Chapter has distinguished itself as a shining example of excellence within Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. At the 2024 Convention in New Orleans, Epsilon Xi was honored with the prestigious Founders Cup, a testament to their outstanding achievements and unwavering dedication to the fraternity's values.

This recognition was no accident; it was the result of consistent success, thoughtful adaptability, and the effective use of resources. Epsilon Xi exemplifies what it means to be a well-rounded chapter, balancing academics, leadership, and community involvement with an infectious enthusiasm for the fraternal experience.

Central to their success was their commitment to clear and effective communication. The chapter maintained

strong relationships with their advisors and headquarters staff, ensuring smooth operations and fostering a culture of support. Their efforts extended beyond their brotherhood, as they built meaningful connections with campus and community organizations, establishing Epsilon Xi as a welcoming and safe space for Jewish students.

"Central to their success was their commitment to clear and effective communication. "

Epsilon Xi hosted dozens of dynamic programs and events, encompassing brotherhood activities, philanthropic initiatives, athletics, recruitment efforts, and social gatherings. These events created opportunities for engagement and growth while reflecting the highest ideals of Sigma Alpha Mu. Through their dedication to fostering an ambitious academic environment and a vibrant chapter life, Epsilon Xi has achieved sustainable growth and carved out a meaningful presence within the Emory community.

Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize Epsilon Xi for their accomplishments, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The Fraternity congratulates the brothers at Emory University on this well-deserved honor, celebrating their legacy as a chapter that truly embodies the values of Sigma Alpha Mu.

Epsilon Xi Chapter At Emory

Fostering Student Safety

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity is committed to fostering a safe and respectful environment for its members and the communities it serves. Our risk management policy, accessible at sam.org/risk, outlines guidelines and expectations that promote responsible behavior and reduce potential risks associated with fraternity operations and events at every level of the fraternity. By adhering to this policy, Sigma Alpha Mu upholds its values of leadership, integrity, and accountability.

The risk management policy addresses several critical areas, including alcohol and drug use, hazing prevention, sexual misconduct, event management, and general safety standards. These guidelines are designed to ensure the well-being of all members and guests while maintaining compliance with state and federal laws. This summer, the fraternity’s policies included additional updates to respond to high risk events, temporary structures, and unmanned aircrafts (drones).

Sigma Alpha Mu provides training and resources for chapter leaders and members related to these policies. The fraternity also encourages open communication to report any concerns or violations. Members who disregard the policy may face disciplinary action to uphold the fraternity’s standards.

By holding our chapters and members accountable to its risk management policy, Sigma Alpha Mu demonstrates its commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and enriching experience for all its members and the broader community.

Rae Ann and Steve Gruver spoke at the 2024 Convention. They shared the story of their son Max, who tragically passed as a result of fraternity hazing at LSU just 29 days into his freshman year in 2017. The Gruvers have been fighting hazing every since, including founding the Max Gruver Foundation, who's mission it is to raise awareness and prevent hazing on all campuses and in all organizations.

Additionally, the Good Samaritan Policy and the TRUTH Campaign are integral supplements to Sigma Alpha Mu’s Risk Management Policy, reinforcing the fraternity’s commitment to safety, accountability, and education. Both initiatives provide practical and ethical frameworks that empower members to uphold the highest standards of care and transparency in their interactions and decisionmaking.

The Good Samaritan Policy prioritizes the well-being of individuals by encouraging members to seek help in emergencies without fear of repercussions for minor policy violations. For instance, if a member or guest is in danger due to alcohol or drug use, the policy ensures that those who 911 for help will not face disciplinary action for their own infractions, as long as they act in good faith.

The TRUTH Campaign (Time to Report Unauthorized Traditions and Hazing) is a targeted initiative designed to eradicate hazing and other harmful practices by encouraging transparency and accountability within Sigma Alpha Mu chapters. This initiative directly supports the fraternity’s Risk Management Policy by creating a culture where members feel empowered to report unsafe or outdated traditions that conflict with the organization’s values. If you are aware of recent behaviors that violate our policies, please report them at https://sam. org/incident-report/.

FLY HIGH MAX

Forging Friendships Through the Kaplan Safe Campus Award

Amy Buchheit & Jackie Hacket Gellinger

Written by ΣAM Foundation Senior Director of Development / Assistant Executive Director

At the 2024 Chapter Leaders Day in Los Angeles, members of USC/Mu Theta and Arizona/Beta Gamma chapters sat by each other and started a conversation about what it’s like living in the SAM House. They continued talking through lunch, when a guest asked if she could sit with them and join their conversation.

Jacqueline Caster, granddaughter of Jacob Kaplan, a Founder of Sigma Alpha Mu, who recently started an award for Sigma Alpha Mu chapters in response to the increasing national press surrounding fraternities and sexual assaults on college campuses, was the guest who sat with the chapter leaders.

In this conversation, she learned about the changes Mu Theta was making to their social events to help make women feel safe at their house and heard Beta Gamma ask questions about how they could do something similar. After learning about the noticeable differences Mu Theta experienced with how women felt with their Sober Room, Beta Gamma knew they had to do the same. The Sober Room is a dedicated space in the Mu Theta house that has non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, a female-security officer, and

serves as a quiet place for members and guests to step away from a crowded social event. It also serves as an area for designated risk team members to convene, settle any concerns, or meet with stakeholders.

Caster asked both groups of young men if they were going to apply for the Kaplan Safe Campus Award because she knew that was exactly what she had envisioned for the award - a simple change that could be easily replicated at a low cost across all Sigma Alpha Mu chapters, and eventually across the greater Fraternal Community.

As lunch continued on, the young men asked Caster what her grandfather was like, if she attended SAM events as she was growing up, and why she chose to start the Kaplan Safe Campus Award. Despite disappointed feelings that the conversation had to end with lunch concluding, Caster and the chapter leaders exchanged emails and found each other on LinkedIn, wanting to continue the new friendships that were made that afternoon.

Jacqueline Caster interacts with members from the Mu Theta and Beta Gamma chapters at Chapter Leaders Day in Los Angeles in February 2024.

When events are held at the Mu Theta chapter house, a dedicated room with water and light snacks is available for women and is monitored by a security officer to ensure that no one is bothering the women in the room.

After Caster’s encouragement after the event, both chapters applied for the Kaplan Safe Campus Award, and at the New Orleans Convention, Mu Theta and Beta Gamma were awarded first and second place, respectively, for the improvements they made to their chapter houses to keep women safe.

When Caster found out who the award winners were for 2024, she was thrilled that they had filled out the application and were making a difference on the Southern California and Arizona campuses!

For questions on the Kaplan Safe Campus Award, contact Amy Buchheit at amyb@sam-fdn.org

Gamma Sigma (Binghamton) interest group members with Executive Director Huston this summer.

Current Expansion Efforts:

Gamma Sigma at Binghamton University

Sigma Delta Chapter at Rutgers University

Kappa Xi Kappa at New Jersey Insitute of Technology

Future Expansion Projects:

Mu Epsilon at University of Miami (Florida)

Chapters around the

CHAPTER INFORMATION

B

Cornell University

Θ

University of Pennsylvania

During this past Labor Day weekend, the chapter came together to host a small, brotherhood-focused BBQ, exemplifying our dedication to fraternity values and sincerity toward one another. The BBQ was designed to foster camaraderie within the chapter while staying true to our fraternity's standards. Throughout the day, upperclassmen brothers took the lead in cooking and preparing food, providing an opportunity for everyone to relax and enjoy each other's company in a laid-back, respectful setting. This BBQ was more than just a gathering – it was a testament to our chapter's ability to adapt to challenges while demonstrating sincerity toward our fraternity and each other.

University of Minnesota

University of Illinois

14 43 1

Our chapter has focused on bringing awareness to the antisemitism on campus as well as the war in Gaza. We just wanted to help students be empathetic about the hostages in Gaza as well as the innocent Gazans. We have collaborated with Chabad and Hillel to host events to bring this awareness. One event, Humans of October 7th, featured individuals who attended the Nova festival on October 7th, sharing their personal stories with the audience. Another event, Hostage Square, was organized in partnership with the Milk Carton Project to highlight the Americans still held hostage in Gaza. This event aimed to raise awareness across the university by showcasing their stories prominently on the Quad. Both events were incredibly successful and had a meaningful impact on the broader University of Illinois community.

Syracuse University

Our chapter ensures to have brotherhood events every single week. [From] our weekly Thursday Night Football with a projector outside a fire, something more chill, to going out to go paintballing or to a Syracuse Mets game, there is always something going on in the chapter in terms of brotherhood. It is very important that brothers have opportunity to connect with one another and they have been going very strong. Throughout the day, brothers who do not live in will come over to hang out, there is never a dull moment in the house because brothers enjoy being around each other. The sense of the community in the house is strong. On campus many brothers are involved with various other organizations including Hillel and Chabad. On top of that, brothers are involved in professional clubs, social clubs, intramural sports, etc. Many brothers do these together and help to grow our name on campus as well. Brothers feel part of the Syracuse community as a whole on top of being Sammy brothers.

[The chapter] provides a good community space where everyone has trust and camaraderie with members of the house. Often times, other members will check up on and ask members how they are doing to make sure members are in a good mental state. This open communication allows for members to not feel pressure or ashamed of mental health and creates healthy cultures and environments. Along with this, we have a Sammy of the week award, which consists of a pair of Sigma Alpha Mu socks and a shoutout in our weekly chapter meeting. This lets brothers know when someone is going above and beyond for the chapter.

University of Cincinnati

5 57 1 Ψ

University of Pittsburgh

4 34 1

ΣAM has provided us with guidance and assistance in growing our chapter following a rough spot during the Pandemic. HQ provided us with support after we suffered antisemitic attacks. We have seen some of the largest spring classes in our history in the previous three years and hope to continue that growth this year.

Indiana University

Our chapter has actively participated in a range of programs to support inclusion, mental health, and substance misuse prevention, fostering a conscientious and supportive environment for all members. Additionally, we hosted a philanthropy event with the Monroe County Police Department, utilizing the Jewish Endeavor Grant to raise funds for back-to-school supplies for children in need, allowing members to give back to the local community and uphold our values of access and support. Our efforts have helped enhance member awareness, cultivate positive relationships, and foster a respectful, inclusive chapter environment. By engaging in these chapter-wide initiatives, we continue to uphold our values and positively impact both our members and the broader community.

University of Texas

Our chapter organized a workshop on stress management and selfcare techniques for all members, emphasizing the fraternity's commitment to supporting each other both in and out of fraternity activities. This approach demonstrated the chapter's genuine care for its members, as they went beyond enforcing rules to actively foster an environment where everyone felt valued and supported.

University of Michigan

Recently, our chapter had the opportunity to help our local community by volunteering to help set-up the Lincoln City 'Walk to End Alzheimer's' event. We created designs along the path to inspire those participating in the walk. It was a great opportunity for the brothers as we were able to help our community while having fun.

ΣX

University of Maryland

We are proud to have been able to successfully provide a safe, tightknit community for students on our campus, and particularly for Jewish students in amidst a difficult year for the Jewish Community. Through community service, our "Sammy Smash" Philanthropy event, as well as our recent success in recruitment, we have been able to continue to Foster True MDH within our chapter. Additionally, the support of our alumni has allowed us to take steps towards moving back into our historic home at 2 Fraternity Row - an exciting and important advancement for our chapter!

This is a historic and meaningful house to our chapter, and returning here will allow us to continue to grow the Chapter that has given so much to each of us.

ΣΩ

North Carolina State University

Our chapter views brotherhood as a holistic commitment to one another’s personal growth and mental health, not just adherence to rules and regulations.We recently recognized a group of brothers for their extraordinary participation in local service activities, specifically with a nearby Alzheimer’s care facility. Several brothers had been volunteering there weekly, helping with memory games, spending time with the residents, and assisting the staff with everyday tasks. Seeing their dedication, chapter leadership took the initiative to formally acknowledge their efforts during a chapter meeting. Instead of a simple thank-you, the leadership organized a day where the entire chapter visited the care facility to see the impact firsthand. This collective visit deepened the chapter’s connection to the facility and its mission, while reinforcing the sincerity of the chapter’s recognition. The chapter continued to volunteer at the facility, demonstrating that the recognition wasn’t a one-time gesture, but an ongoing commitment to serving others. In both cases, our chapter demonstrated that sincerity is about more than words; it’s about taking meaningful action to support its members and the community.

Drexel University

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MΘ

University of Southern California

Sigma Alpha Mu at USC has played a pivotal role in fostering a strong sense of community within our chapter and beyond. Within the fraternity, ΣAM emphasizes brotherhood through shared values, collaborative events, and meaningful traditions, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Our chapter's tight-knit community is built through participation in philanthropic projects, social events, and academic support, ensuring that each brother feels connected and supported.

On campus, ΣAM has helped us cultivate relationships with other student organizations and the wider Trojan community. By collaborating with other fraternities, sororities, and campus groups, we extend our network and strengthen our presence, enhancing our role as responsible and engaged members of USC. Additionally, ΣAM encourages us to serve as role models and leaders among our peers, further reinforcing the values of community and brotherhood.

In short, ΣAM provides us with the tools to form lasting connections, not only among brothers but also within the broader campus and local communities. The sense of belonging and support fostered by ΣAM is central to both individual and collective success at USC.

Our Chapter is a very open space where all brothers feel comfortable to express their emotions and issues whenever they may arise. We also recognize any extra effort or participation towards the betterment of the fraternity during chapter, and allow that brother to be recognized for the above and beyond work that they've been doing.

Miami University (OH)

University of Arizona

University of Wisconsin

University of Virginia

2

At the beginning of the school year, Beta Psi faced several challenges, including the suspension and trial, but also a member who was struggling with mental health and academic balance. The chapter's leadership stepped up in a meaningful way, showing sincerity and commitment to both the fraternity and its members.

During the investigation, the chapter found itself at a crossroads. The uncertainty surrounding the suspension left many members feeling anxious about the future of Beta Psi. Instead of retreating or becoming overwhelmed, us on the executive board worked together to maintain hope and morale with the commitment to not let the chapter fall apart.

In times of adversity our chapter is a great support network with people of all backgrounds and knowledge. Having the executive board able to kind of organize who can help with what and what to do in certain situations gets the ball rolling and assists in getting the issue fixed.

The Beta Gamma chapter at the University of Arizona has fostered a strong sense of community by creating spaces for brothers to connect and support each other both within our chapter and across campus. Through organized events, social activities, and volunteering, ΣAM encourages us to build meaningful friendships, collaborate, and actively participate in campus life. This sense of camaraderie extends beyond our chapter, as ΣAM's initiatives have allowed us to engage with peers from different backgrounds and contribute positively to the broader university community.

University of Illinois Chicago

The Gamma Epsilon chapter has brought both our members and the UIC community a sense of family and enjoyability that is generally lacking on ‘commuter’ campuses. With our presence on-campus, we have brought a lively and fun aspect of student-life back to the UIC campus that was lost after COVID. The experience of being a member of Sigma Alpha Mu - Gamma Epsilon, has brought all of our members valuable leadership and creative opportunities that one may not normally have access to.

UC-San Diego

Our chapter tries our best to facilitate a safe space for open dialogue. Members were not only able to express their concerns, but they also received support in the form of resources for academic help, counseling services, and stressrelief activities. The leadership made it clear that their priority was the well-being of their brothers, showing a genuine commitment to their mental health.

University of Florida

One example of the recognition we give to exceptionally-philanthropic members is our semesterly Purple Plate for Community Service. We give out eight Purple Plates per year (four in the spring and four in the fall), with the Community Service award given out twice total. During this past Spring Semester, Nathan Lamm won the award for his volunteer work on a domestic violence helpline between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM twice per week during all fifteen weeks of the semester. Nathan also coordinated our involvement in the Big Event at UF in the spring, where several brothers volunteered at a local Ronald McDonald House from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Nathan's dedication to serving others is truly admirable, and our chapter always tries to recognize brothers like him who do their best to help the broader community.

This past fall, our chapter made a conscious decision not to take a fall rush class. Instead, we chose to focus on rebuilding our brotherhood and strengthening our internal bonds, recognizing that the foundation of a successful chapter is a united and committed membership. This semester, we have shifted our approach by developing a semester-long rush process, which includes hosting meaningful events for potential new members while allowing more time to engage in philanthropy and community service. Just recently, we had a highly successful philanthropy week where our chapter raised money and donated the proceeds to the Alzheimer's Association. We capped off the week by participating in the Judy Walk, hosted by the Alzheimer's Association, in honor of those affected by Alzheimer's. Our chapter's sincere commitment to giving back doesn’t stop there—we have many more plans in motion. In the coming months, we aim to increase our volunteer work by participating in food drives at the local soup kitchen and DC Central Kitchen. We're also planning to assist with volunteer efforts at nonprofits like Rock Creek Park and the Zoo. By prioritizing philanthropy and community engagement over immediate growth, we have shown sincerity in building a brotherhood that values service, integrity, and long-term success.

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Ottawa University

Illinois State University 16 33 2

The Delta Pi Chapter has achieved some incredible feats this semester. After receiving the VP of the Year Award (Chris Hempstead), Chapter Advisor of the Year Award (Paul Turner), Founder's Level, and some others at this year's Convention, the Delta Pi Chapter has continued to strive for excellence. In the photo illustrated above, this year our Chapter won the annual Greek Olympics competition! Greek Olympics is similar in concept to Greek Week (but instead lasts only one weekend), where fraternities and sororities engage in competition to see which organizations can achieve the highest scores across all events. These events include a philanthropic bottle drive where the organization with the greatest total value would win and the money would be donated to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). It also includes traditional sports such as football, basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, and some arcade sports like pinball, foosball, Buck Hunter, and others. The Delta Pi Chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu has not won Greek Olympics since 2004 so this is widely considered the greatest achievement of our Chapter in decades, and it was extremely demanding on our fraternity. During the Greek Olympics our fraternity was tested; with respect to our sense of Brotherhood, cooperation, durability, determination, coordination, strategy and respectability. The Brothers competed like warriors and emerged victorious.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

7 25 2

This year, the Delta Omega chapter had the honor of participating in the Canandaigua Walk to end Alzheimer's. We were both surprised and deeply grateful to be invited to play a special role in the event’s opening ceremony, proudly representing the orange flower in the Promise Garden, which symbolizes the motivation of supporting the Alzheimer’s Association’s vision of a world without Alzheimer’s. Brothers with personal connection to the cause were able to carry different colored flowers, each representing their deeper ties to the fight against dementia. As brothers proudly carried Sigma Alpha Mu’s crest and letters, the sense of community and shared purpose we felt that day reminded us of the impact we can have when genuinely dedicating ourselves to a cause.

8 39 1 0 4 5

Stephen F. Austin State University

1 18 1

University of Connecticut

7 19 0

During our recent bridge builder, many of our chapter brothers came together and shared recent news regarding the semesters and life updates. By doing this, we gathered a better understanding of each other, forming a bigger bond than we ever could of before.

4 20 5 EΔ

Johnson & Wales

ΣAM has helped us develop the importance of building community within ourselves and around us. We have realized how our brotherhood has the opportunity to make a difference in others lives by simple acts of service. It is a value we all share to build and grow the Fraternity's presence in the community.

Across The Alumni

Celebrating

Alumni Club Updates

Stay Connected

Looking to reconnect? Explore opportunities with Sigma Alpha Mu Alumni Clubs near you or find other ways to get involved by visiting sam.org/alumni

Have news to share about your Alumni Club? Submit them at sam.org/updates

Beta Psi Alumni Association

The Beta Psi Alumni Association chartering was spearheaded by Howard Siegel, Charles H. Shorley, Gus Callaway, Bruce D. Rieder, Samuel S. Bellas, and John Ale. The group has started with an series of events this fall throughout the country. They currently have 52 members and their members receive this wonderful pin, please contact Howard Siegel at hsiegel1948@me.com.

Epsilon Gamma Alumni Association

Terrence Brown has been a driving force for the return of Epsilon Gamma Chapter at Illinois State. Now he has orchestrated the establishment of their Alumni Association in collaboration with Owen Rozanski, Michael Liedke, Tom Dietrich, and Derek Fennell.

ΣAM Israel Alumni Club

Several alumni from the ΣAM Israel Alumni Club regularly visit the United States and Canada. They have made the generous offer to speak at chapter, alumni, and community events during their trips. If you are interested in hosting a speaking opportunity in your community, please email israel@sam.org.

Aryeh Green (Cal-Berkeley, ‘81) will be traveling through the United States in March. He has served as a senior policy advisor to Natan Sharansky since late 1990s including as a senior member of minister Sharansky’s staff in Israel’s Prime Minister’s office, responsible for contacts with Palestinian and other Arab & Muslim democracy activists as well as for relations with ‘next generation’ Jewish leaders and coordination of hasbara activities, including on campus. Currently he helps run a company and a non-profit building solar fields in Africa and in poor American communities. Aryeh is also the author of My Israel Trail: Finding Peace in the Promised Land, a book about his experience hiking the 800-mile Israel National Trail and meeting personal challenges, and is a popular and inspiring speaker. Aryeh can be reached at aryeh.green@gmail.com.

*Sigma Omicron (Nebraska) Alumni tailgate

Brotherhood in Every Moment

Benji Bearman

Written by (Minnesota, '97), Supreme Exchequer

Most Saturday mornings, I wake up and head down the street to synagogue. At the door, I’m greeted by Jeff Sacks (UIC, '75), who always has a warm smile and a handshake ready. Settling into my seat near the back, I’m next to Howard Spiro (Iowa, '87), who always seems to have a great story to share or a thoughtful observation about life. Looking across the aisle, I see Gary Merrill (UIC, '75), whose calm demeanor and wisdom are comforting, and oftentimes, Wayne Shapiro (Illinois-Urbana, '68) is leading part of the service, guiding us with his steady, confident presence.

How does it happen that there are five Sammys out of fifty to sixty people in attendance on any given Saturday? It’s a question I often reflect on. But more than the coincidence of seeing so many familiar faces in an unexpected setting, it’s the feeling of connection and community that strikes me the most. One of the highlights of my week is seeing everyone and appreciating the brotherhood we’ve formed in the most unlikely of places. After all, most alumni don’t encounter groups of fraternity members in their everyday life—outside of alumni events, reunions, or other occasional happenings. Yet here we are, week after week, bonding over something far deeper than our shared college experiences.

As we connected the dots over the last year and realized that we’re all part of Sigma Alpha Mu, there’s been a lovely camaraderie that’s grown. We check in with each other, see how the week has gone, hear about travels, enjoy each other’s company, and often share stories that bridge both the past and the present. There’s a special bond that transcends the day-to-day and brings us together in a

meaningful way. Sometimes, we reminisce about the "good old days" of college life— the fun, the brotherhood, and more—but we also talk about what’s happening today in ΣAM, and how the Fraternity continues to thrive.

But regardless of the subject, what matters most is that we’re building the relationship and reinforcing our connection. In a world that often pulls us in many directions, having a place where we can come together with shared history and values feels incredibly grounding. It's not just about looking back; it's about fostering a sense of community that continues to grow, adapt, and stay relevant to who we are today. Too often, we rush past others in our busy lives, not taking the time to chat

" The spirit of sam thrives in the quiet moments- sharing a story, checking in with a friend, or simply knowing we're part of something bigger"

or even say hello. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work, family, and personal responsibilities. But I think about the Sammys I’ve met over the years and how many of them are out there, all over the world, waiting to connect. How many others are also looking for a sense of brotherhood, just like I am? What’s stopping us from reaching out and nurturing those connections?

Perhaps the answer lies in the power of small moments—whether it’s a conversation after a service, a phone call catching up on life, or a simple “thinking of you” message. It's these little acts that can spark a deeper sense of camaraderie. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the key to keeping the spirit of ΣAM alive—not just in the grand moments of reunions or formal gatherings, but in the quiet, everyday exchanges that allow us to continue growing together as brothers.

What do we need to do to foster and maintain these relationships? Maybe it's about being intentional, carving out the time and space to check in with one another, even if it's just once in a while. Maybe it’s about making that extra effort to reach out when you’re traveling to a new city or town, just to see if there are any Sammys nearby. Maybe it’s as simple as remembering that we’re all part of something bigger than ourselves—a global network of men who shared something special and who, regardless of where life has taken us, can still share that bond today.

In the end, it’s not about how many Sammys are in attendance at any given moment, but about the relationships we continue to build, nourish, and cherish.

The brotherhood of Sigma Alpha Mu is not bound by the walls of a house or the days spent on campus; it is a lasting connection that can extend far beyond those years. And as we take the time to nurture it, we ensure that the bond of brotherhood remains just as strong as ever, no matter where life leads.

The Next Step In Brotherhood: Alumni Mentor Program

As a member of Sigma Alpha Mu, your fraternity experience shaped who you are today. Whether through leadership roles, lifelong friendships, or the cherished big brother/little brother tradition, you benefited from guidance and camaraderie. Now, as an alumnus, you have an extraordinary opportunity to give back by joining the Alumni Mentor Program—a platform designed to foster meaningful connections between undergraduate fratres and alumni for personal and professional growth.

This program is a bridge between past and present, offering alumni a chance to stay engaged while profoundly impacting the lives of undergraduates. It’s not just about mentoring; it’s about building a legacy that supports the future of Sigma Alpha Mu while contributing to students' success in the real world.

What Is the Alumni Mentor Program?

The Alumni Mentor Program connects experienced alumni with undergraduate fratres or members of newly established chapters. For alumni, it’s a chance to share wisdom and foster fraternity traditions. For students, it’s an invaluable resource that enhances their personal and professional development in ways that reach far beyond campus life.

How Does This Benefit Undergraduate Fratres?

A successful Alumni Mentor Program experience might be a defining moment of impact for today’s fratres. We know that the fraternity is the ultimate learning laboratory outside the classroom and this program could unlock new ways to prepare students for professional success.

1. Professional Insights

Undergraduates often face uncertainty about life after college. As a mentor, you can offer professional advice that aligns with their career aspirations, from tips on landing internships to insights into navigating their first job. Sharing realworld experiences helps students better understand industry expectations and professional culture.

2. Building Networking Skills

Networking is a cornerstone of career success, and the Alumni Mentor Program provides a safe and supportive environment for students to hone these skills. You can coach them on how to make meaningful connections, develop confidence in professional settings, and maintain relationships that will serve them throughout their careers.

3. Mapping Out Career Paths

The transition from college to career can be overwhelming. Alumni mentors can help fratres identify potential career paths, set realistic goals, and create actionable plans to achieve them. Whether it’s advising on graduate school, certifications, or job opportunities, your guidance makes the future less daunting.

4. Increased Access to Internships

As an alumnus, your network may open doors for students seeking internships or entry-level roles. Whether through direct referrals or guidance on where to look, you can significantly enhance their chances of gaining valuable hands-on experience in their field of interest.

5. Opportunities for Post-Grad Employment

Mentorship relationships often extend beyond the undergraduate years. Your support could lead to a full-time job, a key introduction, or even advice on negotiating their first salary. These tangible benefits show how the program sets students up for long-term success.

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How Does This Benefit Alumni?

1. Empower Future Leaders

Helping undergraduates achieve their goals isn’t just rewarding—it’s essential for the fraternity’s continued success. By sharing your expertise, you contribute to their growth as leaders and professionals who embody the values of Sigma Alpha Mu.

2. Stay Connected

The Alumni Mentor Program bridges the gap between generations of fratres, keeping alumni involved in fraternity life while ensuring traditions and values are passed down.

3. Expand Your Network

While students gain networking skills, mentors benefit too. Building

How to Get Involved

1. Express Your Interest

Reach out to your chapter or sign up on sam.org/volunteer. We’ll do our best to match you with a mentee or connect you to a chapter in need.

2. Set the Framework

Establish clear expectations with your mentee, focusing on areas such as career advice, leadership development, or navigating fraternity life.

3. Establish Engagement

This program will work whether it’s on Zoom, a phone call, email, or in-person meeting. A successful mentor connection is one of mutual commitment. Some connections might only be a couple of meetings while others might evolve into more

A Win-Win for Brotherhood

The Alumni Mentor Program embodies the spirit of Sigma Alpha Mu’s mutual moral aid and support —building meaningful connections, fostering growth, and leaving a legacy. For undergraduates, it provides the professional insights, networking skills, and opportunities they need to succeed. For alumni, it’s a chance to remain engaged, empower future leaders, and strengthen the fraternity’s impact.

The bonds of brotherhood transcend time, and this program ensures those bonds grow stronger with every new generation. Take the next step—become a mentor, and help shape the future of Sigma Alpha Mu while enriching your own life in the process. Together, we build a brighter future for all fratres.

editor@sam.org editor@sam.org

FOUNDATION

Since our inception, the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation’s mission has been “to support the educational interests and activities of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity, to furnish student aid, and to encourage and develop conduct and traits of character consistent with high morals, constructive citizenship, scholarship, leadership and community service.”

To learn more about the foundation’s programs or to make a donation, go to sam-fdn.org.

Written by

Amy Buchheit

ΣAM Foundation Senior Director of Development

Jerry and Vicki Conrey lead the way to $5 million in new estate commitments with a $3.5 million planned gift.

At its recent convention, Sigma Alpha Mu announced $5 million in new planned gifts commitments, which were headlined by a $3.5 million commitment from Past Supreme Prior Jerry Conrey and his wife Vicki.

The record commitment from the Conreys will fund programs that support innovation, enhancement of chapter housing and educational initiatives for members of Sigma Alpha Mu. “This extraordinary commitment from Jerry and Vicki will help ensure the future of Sigma Alpha Mu,” said Aaron Girson, chief executive officer of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. Jerry and Vicki’s gift will be split equally between the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation and Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity.

"By making this planned gift, Vicki and I are championing an organization that has profoundly touched both of our lives. We urge our fellow alumni and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu to follow suit, to make a lasting impact on future generations, and to champion causes close to their hearts," shared PSP Jerry Conrey, Gamma Xi/Cal State Fullerton '84.

Conrey’s gift had an immediate impact by prompting Past Supreme Prior David Sergi, Gamma Kappa/Texas A&M ’82, to finalize his own seven-figure estate commitment to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. “It is wonderful to see the impact that longtime leaders like David are still having on Sigma Alpha Mu,” said Andy Huston, Executive Director of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. Andy went on to share, “David witnessed the transformational impact of Sigma Alpha Mu when his son joined Mu Chi Chapter. This gift, which will also be split between the Fraternity and Foundation, will help ensure that future generations continue to benefit from fraternity membership."

These two gifts were announced on the heels of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation receiving a $325,000 distribution from the estate of Robert Burg, Tau/Alabama - Phi/Washington U ’43, to fund scholarships for the members of the Tau and Phi chapters. In addition, Past Supreme Prior David Rice, Beta Iota/Wisconsin - Gamma Epsilon/ UIC ’83, has finalized an estate commitment of at least $500,000 and a five-year commitment of $25,000 to fund current needs.

Over the years, dozens of members and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu have joined the Ira Lind Society, Sigma Alpha Mu’s planned giving society. The society was established in honor of ΣAM founder Ira N. Lind, who in 1959 became the first member to establish a planned gift for Sigma Alpha Mu. To date more than $1.2 million in planned gifts have been received by Sigma Alpha Mu, and the total known planned gift commitments are more than $7 million. Planned gifts are commitments from alumni and friends of ΣAM who have commitments in their estate plans.

For more information on planned giving opportunities or ways to support the current needs of student fratres, contact Aaron Girson, chief executive officer of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation, at aarong@sam-fdn.org

Ira Lind Society Members

The Ira Lind Society recognizes those who have chosen to have a lasting impact on ΣAM through a planned gift. We are grateful to Ira Lind Society members for their forethought and willingness to contribute in support of Sigma Alpha Mu. To learn more about making a planned gift, or if your name is missing from this list, contact Amy Buchheit, Senior Director of Development at amyb@sam-fdn.org

Ira N. Lind, Alpha/CCNY – FOUNDER

Samual S. Adler, Alpha/CCNY

James R. Alexander, Mu Alpha/SMU

Myron Becker, Phi/Washington U

Grace Brender, friend

Robert B. Berkoff, Mu Beta/University of Alberta

Richard H. Berman, Sigma Rho/Missouri

Phillip G. Brant, Sigma Theta/Texas

Kenneth R. Collins, Sigma Zeta/Indiana

Vicki & Jerry L. Conrey, Gamma Xi/Cal State Fullerton

Forrest E. Dull, friend

Ira S. Epstein, Sigma Omicron/Nebraska

Robert P. Gelernter, Sigma Theta/Texas

Aaron M. Girson, Delta Un/Western Michigan ‘92

Robert “Rack” M. Goldhirsch, Beta Sigma/North Texas

Benjamin P. Goldman, Beta/Cornell

Samuel Gotfrid, Omega/University of Toronto

Sidney H. Guller, Phi/Washington University

Maury A. Guzick, Beta Sigma/North Texas

Lucille & James C. Hammerstein, Alpha/CCNY

Nate Karchmer, Sigma Alpha/Oklahoma*

Joan Kauff, daughter of Founder David D. Levinson

Arnold M. Leff, Omicron/Cincinnati

Rolf M. Landshoff, Kappa/Minnesota

Stanley W. Levine, Mu Iota/Butler

Nate B. Locklin, Psi/Pitt

Leland D. Manders, Mu Psi/Miami

Darren M. Margolis, Gamma Iota/Towson

Nathan C. Margolis, Beta Sigma/North Texas

Robert A. Menela, Mu Chi/Michigan State

Howard B. Miller, Sigma Chi/Maryland

Joel E. Moses, Beta/Cornell

Jeffrey J. Mora, Delta Delta/Alfred

Hanno D. Mott, Omicron/Cincinnati

Benjamin Novicoff, Sigma Omicron/Nebraska

Roy M. Neulicht, Sigma Omega/NC State

William J. Ober, Alpha/CCNY

John A. Paine, Beta Delta/San Jose State

Paul A. Pumpian, Sigma Chi/Maryland

Authur I. Roufa, Phi/Washington U.

Sumner M. Saeks, Sigma Beta/Ohio State

David S. Rice, Gamma Epsilon/University of Illinois- Chicago

Lawrence D. Schaffer, Sigma Beta/Ohio State

David K. Sergi, Gamma Kappa/Texas A& M

Hyman M. Shiff, Theta/UPENN

Robert Traum, Mu Phi/Long Island University

Gerhard Van Biema, Sigma Eta/Purdue

Joel Warady, Rho/Illinois

Percy Weinberg, Kappa/Minnesota

Richard A. Weinstein, Sigma Beta/Ohio State

Stuart Zalowitz, Sigma Alpha/Oklahoma

Stanley Zimmerman, Sigma Pi/UCLA

ΣAM Founder Ira Lind, who was the first fratre to make a planned gift commitment to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation.

Chapter Educational Funds

Chapter Educational Funds (CEF) are a way to give to the ΣAM Foundation AND designate the gift for a chapter. In 2023-24, over $57,000 was awarded to chapters to use for educational purposes and for improvements to enhance educational spaces, such as study rooms and libraries.

Chapters with CEFs include:

• Beta / Cornell

• Eta / Syracuse

• Theta / Pennsylvania

• Omicron / Cincinnati

• Rho / Illinois

• Tau / Alabama

• Sigma Beta / Ohio State

• Sigma Zeta / Indiana

• Sigma Eta / Purdue

• Sigma Iota / Michigan

• Sigma Omicron / Nebraska

• Sigma Theta / Texas (Pacey Laves Legacy Fund)

• Sigma Omega / North Carolina State

• Mu Eta / Drexel

• Mu Theta / USC

• Mu Chi / Michigan State

• Mu Psi / Miami U. Ohio

• Gamma Kappa / Texas A & M

• Epsilon Alpha / Stephen F. Austin

• Epsilon Xi / Emory

Highlights from the CEFs provided so far include:

· $21,000 was awarded in scholarships and grants to Sigma Eta/Purdue to support the chapter and Jewish educational programs and philanthropy.

· $12,855 was awarded to Sigma Theta/Texas from the Pacey Laves Sigma Theta CEF, created to memorialize Harold “Pacey” Laves (Sigma Theta, ’58), a loyal and dedicated alumnus, and to benefit the chapter house.

· $6,200 was awarded to Mu Theta/USC to support local philanthropic causes and a study space in the house.

· $6,000 was awarded to Tau/Alabama to have a dedicated study room and to support chapter scholarships.

Mu Theta Study Room

“As a young Israeli-American, I found unity in our voices at the D.C. rally – bridging cultures, embracing diversity, and fostering a shared commitment to a brighter future for both Israel and America." – Etai Geller (Sigma Theta/Texas)- Jewish Endeavor Grant

Recipient

Jewish Endeavor Initiatives

The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation is able to support Jewish student activities through grants from our Jewish Endeavor Initiative program, made possible from donations from loyal alumni. We are proud to have supported the following programs in 2023-24:

· Psi/Pittsburgh partnered with Chabad on a Shabbat dinner and barbecue.

· Rho/Illinois partnered with Chabad on a Shabbat that included over 150 attendees.

· Sigma Theta/Texas also partnered with Chabad on a Sammy Shabbat event.

· Etai Geller at Sigma Theta/Texas participated in March for Israel in Washington, D.C.

· Mui Chi/Michigan State hosted Hillel Puppy Yoga for the campus community in November ’23 as a stress relief event for the community.

· Gamma Psi/AZ State partnered with Hillel for a Shabbat in February ’24.

· Theta/Penn hosted a Purim celebration.

· Chabad and the Mu Psi/Miami OH chapter joined together for a Seder in April ’24.

· Sigma Eta/Purdue sponsored Second Seder at Purdue Hillel.

· Sigma Omicron/Nebraska performed an annual cleanup of the Wyuka Cemetery Holocaust Memorial.

· Delta Omega /Rochester Inst of Technology joined with other fraternities and sororities for a Greek Passover Seder.

· Sigma Theta/Texas again joined with Hillel and other groups for the Israel Block Party ’24.

Scholarship Spotlight

The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation is proud to announce newly created scholarships that will be awarded for the first time in Spring 2025. The scholarships will join over 150 others as part of the Lawrence D. Schaffer Endowed Scholarship Program. For more information, visit www.sam-fdn.org.

The Jordan Kaplan Scholarship was created by Jordan’s (Beta Gamma/Arizona ’99) family in his memory and to honor his lifelong fraternal friendships. The $1,000 scholarship will benefit a worthy member of the Beta Gamma chapter who represents Jordan’s deep concern for animals, enthusiasm for marketing and investments, and spirit of entrepreneurism through their academics and community service. Jordan’s mother and brother have been instrumental in creating this scholarship, the first exclusively for the Beta Gamma chapter.

The Mu Gamma Engineering Scholarship has been endowed by Sanford Levine (Mu Gamma/CWRU ’73) in honor of the Mu Gamma chapter and will be awarded to a deserving engineering student for the first time in 2025. While the Mu Gamma chapter is currently dormant, the alumni are still active, and two legacies of Mu Gamma alumni received scholarships in 2024 – Sam Cogan (Sigma Chi, '22), grandson of Robert Snider (Mu Gamma ’58), and Jack Scherson (Delta Omega, '21), son of Arturo Scherson (Mu Gamma, ’87). The Mu Gamma Engineering $1,000 Scholarship will be available to any worthy engineering major from any active ΣAM chapter.

Scholarship

Created by Darren Margolis (Gamma Iota,’92) in memory of his uncle, the Morton C. Pollack (Sigma Chi, ’49) Memorial Scholarship is for an undergraduate or graduate student who is a member of a synagogue and has demonstrated involvement in Israel and/or Jewish programs or services. In times like these, Fra Margolis feels that it is more important than ever to celebrate ΣAM’s Jewish heritage and support those who make a difference for the Jewish community.

In 2024-25 the Robert L. Burg Scholarships will be awarded to deserving students from the Tau Chapter at Alabama. Fra Burg and his cousin joined Tau before leaving for military service. After serving 3 ½ years in the Army Air Corps, Fra Burg returned to the U.S. and continued his education at Washington University. The Burg Scholarship fund will provide scholarships for both chapters, although Phi is currently dormant. In Spring 2025, $14,000 will be awarded in scholarships from this fund for deserving Tau students.

Previously funded but set to be awarded for the first time in 2025 is the Todd Marks PRIDE Scholarship. Created by Todd Marks (Gamma Iota, ’90), this scholarship is for an undergraduate member who is “out” and demonstrates advocacy to both the Fraternity and LGBTQ causes. This award is just one example of how our scholarship program celebrates a diverse student community.

Robert L. Burg Scholarships

Morton C. Pollack Memorial

Jordan Kaplan Scholarship

Mu Gamma Engineering Scholarship

Todd Marks PRIDE Scholarship

New Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation Director

At its August 2024 Annual Meeting, the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation elected Rabbi Andrew Paley, Sigma Beta/Ohio State ’87, to its board of directors for a three-year term. Andrew is the Senior Rabbi at Spiritual Leader of Temple Shalom in Dallas, Texas. He has been active with SAM since his undergraduate days, when he was chapter rush/recruitment chairman, and now as an alumnus, he has served in numerous roles, including service on the Octagon and as Supreme Recorder. In the city of Dallas, Rabbi Paley is a Dallas Police Chaplain and Chair of the Dallas Police Chief’s Multi-Faith Advisory Council, a member of the Good Neighbor Task Force of the City of Dallas District 12, a founding member and past Chair of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square, a board member of The Senior Source, and a member of the Muslim/Jewish Advisory Council of the Dallas Chapter of The American Jewish Committee.

Fra Paley is married to Deborah Niederman and is the father of Molly and Samuel.

The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation continues to lead the way with our Guller Young Scholars program for new initiates who earn a 3.75 or higher. The program was the vision of Sidney Guller (Phi, ’43), who believed that fraternity and academic achievement are the keys to success on campus and beyond. Last year we had our largest group ever with 168 Guller Young Scholars, representing 32 Chapters!

1,939 fratres have earned the distinction of being Guller Young Scholars and we hope to cross the 2000 threshold in 2025. Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to be the only Greek organization that offers this program to all of its members.

Guller Young Scholars

Rabbi Andrew Paley

HONOR & MEMORIAL GIFTS

October '23 - October '24

Contributions to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation can be made in memory of fratres, family and friends and in honor of living members. These gifts help to further the Foundation’s educational initiatives to benefit all fratres. For more information or the make a gift, visit sam-fdn.org/donate

For questions or corrections, contact Amy Buchheit at amyb@sam-fdn.org

Todd Aronoff by Stuart Aronoff, Cal- Berkeley ‘51

Delta Pi Chapter by Blair Carey, Ottawa ‘93

Fighting antisemitism on our campuses by Joel Herman, Michigan ’82 and Joel Levy, Miami ’75

Aaron Girson, Western Michigan ’92 by James Curl, Alfred University ’94 and DJ Hampton, Alfred University ‘98

All Israeli citizens caught up in the war by Steven Lidsky, Albany ’86 and Clark Loffman, Southern California ‘82

IN HONOR OF

Benjamin Kotzen by Stephen Kotzen, Tulane ‘58

Lee Manders, Miami ‘72 by Alan Levy, Miami ‘72 and Brian Sass, Miami ‘73

J Kenneth Moritz by Joseph Gallagher, Penn ‘82

Lonnie Nasatir, Wisconsin ’87 by Steven Nasatir

Dennis Paese, Cornell ’70 by Jonathan Weinberg, Cornell ‘10

IN MEMORY OF

Correction

Joseph Rezits by Daniel Rezits, Indiana ‘83

Ryan Robertson, Cincinnati ’93 by Jonathan Geiger, Cincinnati ‘94

Jason Rosenfeld, Michigan State ’90 by Glenn Saltsman, Michigan State ‘89

Bubba Rubin by Jack Rubin, Texas ‘61

Sharon Turner by Robert Turner, Miami ‘70

In the Spring 2024 Issue Stuart M. Frank (Toledo '68) was incorrectly listed as deceased. We apologize for our error, the corrected entry follows: In Memory Of the following Mu Omega Fratres: Fred Singer (Toledo '68), Barry Pearlman (Toledo '71), Robert Moss (Toledo '68), Vincent Jacarusco (Toledo '69) and Alan Robinson (Toledo '69) By Stuart M. Frank (Toledo '68).

Dave Abrams, Michigan State ‘62 by Lawrence Krantz, Michigan State ‘62

Ayelet Arnin, cousin of Adria Krantz, killed at the Re'im Music Festival Massacre by Alan Krantz, Miami ‘76

Marty Bender, Washington ’66 by Lawrence Silverman, Washington ‘66

Arnold Blitzer, Cincinnati ’53 by Aaron Girson, Western Michigan ‘92

Gavriel Yaacov Bloom of The IDF by Martin Gometz, CW Post ‘60

Dr. Raymond Cohen, Sigma Eta ’42 by Deborah Cohen

Andy Dickson, Wash U ‘83 by Stephen Alpart, Wash U ’82, Anthony Baratta, Wash U ‘80, Neil Burka, Wash U ’80, Samuel Grill, Wash U ’83, Elana Grissom, John Gunn, Wash U ’80, David Hirschman, Michael Marrese, Wash U ’84, Robert McKay, Wash U ’80, Kenneth Oken, Wash U ’83, Steven Salstrom, Wash U ’83, Lee Seigel, Wash U ’81, Dean Weinberg, Wash U ‘80

Harry Dracon, Columbia ’57 by Stephen Berzok, Columbia ‘57

Alan Flatt, Ohio State ’64 by Daniel Aharoni, Ohio State ‘64

Randy Feldman, Ohio State '73 by Leslie Spiegel, Ohio State ‘73

Kevin Finn, Virginia ’20 by Stanley Lefco, Virginia ‘68

Melvin Forst, Pittsburgh ’51 by Eileen Forst

Stu Greenberg, Toledo ’66 by R Thomas Weeks, Toledo ‘66

Robert Goldman, Sigma Eta ’68 by Richard Waxman, Sigma Eta ‘53

Gerald Goldstein, Syracuse by Kenneth Goldstein, Ohio State ‘70

Maurice Guller, Missouri ‘54 and Sidney Guller, Wash U ’43 by James Guller, Penn ‘81

Michael Hertzberg, Columbia ’57 by Stephen Berzok, Columbia ‘57

Lloyd Hurst, Indiana ’27 by Stephen Hurst, Indiana ‘59

Larry Kane, Illinois ’59 by Ron Katch, Illinois ‘51

Ronald Kapon, Columbia ’54 by Stephen Berzok, Columbia ‘57

Ian Kauffman, Virginia ’85 by Stanley Lefco, Virginia ‘68

Pacey Laves, Texas ’58 by Kathryn Knott, Arnold Pollon and Dr. Howard Rubin, Texas ‘81

Howard Levinsky, Wisconsin ’69 by Dean B Zemel, Wisconsin ‘69

Sy Mandel, Minnesota ’53 by Ron Katch, Illinois ‘51

Harry Milkowitz, Syracuse ’16 by Michael Miles, Syracuse ‘58

Jerry Miller, Miami ’76 by Maria Mandel

Sig Munster by Gregory Munster, Ohio State ‘87

Raymond Nissen, Illinois ’53 by Ron Katch, Illinois ‘51

Marvin and Betty Popper by Ronald Popper, Michigan State ‘73

Larry Riklin, Texas ’67 by Lewis Schwartz, Texas ‘67

Bernard M Roberts, Oklahoma ’50 by Leslie Roberts Miller

Jack "Rocky" Rogers, NC State ’74 by Kimberly Davis

Dr. Ivan Rosengarden, Maryland ‘60 by Hillard Cohen, Maryland ‘60

Ralph Santiago, Brandeis ’93 by Steven Wander, Brandeis ‘93

Arturo Scherson, Case Western ’87 by Timothy Clancy, Case Western ‘87

Bill Schwartz, Oklahoma ’50 by William Frischman, Miami ’74 and Laurence Schor, Southern Methodist ‘61

Bob Socol, Illinois '74 by Gary Kash, Illinois ‘71

Donald Stein, Purdue ’50 by Lee Vorisek, Purdue ‘51

Steven Stern, Albany ’89 by Brian Weinstein, Albany ‘86

Barbara Zamen by Robert Zamen, Missouri ‘49

In memory of all our brothers who are no longer with us by Bennett Gold, NYU ‘63

Chapter Eternal

Forever remembering these men and the love they had for Sigma Alpha Mu and their fratres. To report a death, please email samhq@sam. org. Memorial donations in memory of Chapter Eternal members may be directed to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. To donate online, go to SAM.ORG/DONATE

Beta

Harold S. Novikoff (Cornell, '66)

gamma

Harold J. Horn (Columbia '55)

Eta

Griswold H Draz (Syracuse '75)

Leonard J Millner (Syracuse, '48)

Theta

William J. Chertok (UPenn, '47)

Kappa

Ronald W. Goren (Minnesota, '53)

Gerald E. Frisch (Minnesota, '53)

Merton W. Shapiro (Minnesota, '46)

Robert J. Milavetz (Minnesota, '55)

Nu

Christopher M. Kostoss (Buffalo, '91)

Jason S. Neimark (Buffalo, '88)

Xi

Alan L. Silverstein (MIT, '67)

Omicron

Simon Lipp (Cincinnati, '52)

Saul A. Fettner (Cincinnati, '60)

Frederick A. Fink (Cincinnati, '55)

Rho

Larry R. Kane (Illinois-Urbana, '59)

Robert S. Socol (Illinois-Urbana, '71)

Merton G. Silbar (Illinois-Urbana, '53)

Phi

Philip O. Zatlin (WashU, '44)

Harvey S. Gershenson (WashU, '45)

Psi

Jules Spokane (Pittsburgh, '54)

Omega

Elliot R. Beranbaum (Toronto, '53)

SIGMA Alpha

Jarold L. Kohll (Oklahoma, '56)

Martin A. Golman (Oklahoma, '13)

Sigma Beta

Jerry. J, Horwitz (Ohio State, '60)

William A. Bank (Ohio State, '56)

Arthur H. Kaplansky (Ohio State, '51)

Sigma Gamma

Jack R. Goodman (Tulane, '61)

Laurence D. Rudman (Tulane, '55)

Sigma Delta

Kerbert Kuschuk (Rutgers, '56)

Richard M. Chopin (Rutgers, '56)

Eric D. Gerst (Rutgers, '59)

Kevin E. Murphy (Rutgers, '70)

Sigma Zeta

Lawrence J. Frommer (IndianaU, '37)

Ronald N. Mora (IndianaU, '52)

Sigma Eta

Abe H. Kaufman (Purdue, '50)

J. Leon Shohet (Purdue, '55)

Harold B Igdaloff (Purdue, '43)

Mark Mokris (Purdue, '85)

Richard L. Kahn (Purdue, '53)

Sigma Theta

Warren N. Kaman (Texas-Austin, '67)

Allan Zidell (Texas-Austin, '46)

Michael B. Karchmer (Texas-Austin, '63)

Brian A. Weissman (Texas-Austin, '02)

Charles J. Lewis (Texas-Austin, '67)

Perry D. Wulfe (Texas-Austin, '75)f

Sigma Iota

Frederick Gordon (UMichigan, '55)

Mark P. Owens (UMichigan, '57)

Sigma Nu

Bruce V. Nahon (UWashington, '72)

Sigma Xi

Brian E. Romalis (Manitoba, '57)

Sigma Omicron

Bernard J. Turkel (Nebraska, '55)

Edward T. Weiner (Nebraska, '64)

Arnold L. Epstein (Nebraksa, '55)

Steven G. Seglin (Nebraska, '60)

James C. Sophir (Nebraksa, '60)

Morton Zuber (Nebraska, '41)

Leonard L. Rosen (Nebraska, '52)

Matthew C. Biggerstaff (Nebraska, '87)

Sigma Rho

Ronald S. Sandler (Missouri, '52)

Marvin Fremerman (Missouri, '49)

Sigma Tau

Raymond V. Packouz (Oregon, '40)

Richard A. Davis (Oregon, '50)

Sigma Phi

Robert L. Bunch (Bucknell, '06)

Sigma Chi

Jerome H. Hettleman (Maryland, '51)

Ivan A. Rosengarden (Maryland, '56)

Charles E. Reckson (Maryland, '58)

Mu Alpha

Sidney Stahl (Southern Methodist, '51)

Mu Gamma

Zef Shanfield (Case Western, '66)

Mu Epsilon

Lowell B. Burton (UMiami, '47)

Mu Eta

Thomas W. Murphy (Drexel, '94)

Joseph S. Brenner (Drexel, '69)

Albert R. Boscov (Drexel, '48)

Chapter Eternal

Forever remembering these men and the love they had for Sigma Alpha Mu and their fratres. To report a death, please email samhq@sam.org. Memorial donations in memory of Chapter Eternal members may be directed to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. To donate online, go to SAM.ORG/DONATE

Sheldon R. Kalmowitz (Drexel, '61)

Mu Theta

George S. Pellin (USC, '59)

Mu Kappa

Ralph T. Glist (Wayne State,' 57)

Louis T. Klein (Wayne State, '48)

Mu Lambda

Hyman L. Tabacknick (Penn State, '54)

Mu Omicron

Howard R. Rosenthal (NYU, '57)

Mu Chi

Larry A. Fox (Michigan State, '61)

Mu Omega

Barry M. Levit (Toledo, '69)

Beta Delta

Joel D. Berk (San Jose State, '63)

Edwin G. Mullin (San Jose State, '70)

Beta Sigma

Jay Fincher (North Texas, '83)

Beta Upsilon

Marc A. Neuerman (Boston, '68)

Beta Psi

Stewart B. Segal (Virgina, '70)

Gamma Lambda

Otto V. Varga (Northern Illinois, '90)

Gamma Xi

Mark A. Van Bueren (Cal State Fullerton, '85)

Delta Delta

James F. Curl (Alfred, '94)

Epsilon Alpha

Jamie L. Galloway (Stephen F. Austin, '05)

Fra Samuel Salzer (Beta Iota, ‘24), grandson of Fra Harvey Lambert (Illinois-Urbana, ‘57)

Fra Noah Petrassi (Sigma Zeta, '24), son of Fra Craig Petrassi (USF, '88), and grandson of Fra Edward Goldberg (Syracuse, '58)

Fra Charlie Getz (Sigma Chi, '24), son of Fra Michael Getz (Buffalo, '91), and granson of Fra Irvin Raffman (Buffalo, '54)

Fra David Risk (Sigma Zeta, '24), son of Fra Paul Risk (Cincinninati, '86)

SIRES & SONS CORTES

Supreme Prior David Kleppel (WashU, '82) and wife, Andrea, welcome a grandaughter, Harper.

Fra Jordan Remer (Indiana, '06) and wife, Megan, welcome a son, Asher.

Fra Darren Shuster (Miami OH, '11) and wife, Talia Wagner, welcome a son, Micah.

Fra Matthew Ray (Kentucky Wesleyan, ‘17) and wife, Amanda Ray, welcome a girl, Ainsley Wren.

Assistant Executive Director Jackie Hackett Gellinger, and husband, Tanner, welcome a daughter, Grace.

Fra Gray Rifkin (UMiami, '04) and wife, Anna, welcome a son, Gavriel.

Fra Pavel Khazanov (UCLA, '05) and wife, Gabriela Kattan Khazanov, welcome a son, Isaiah.

DIVIDENDS MERGERS

Fra Maurice Cortes (UCSD, ‘15) and wife, Coral

Fra Jacob Herstein (Texas-Austin, '15) and wife, Alexis Prager

Fra Corey Glazer-Bass (Temple, '10) and wife, Joan Fanwick

Know a Sammy who had a child or was married in 2024? Send us an update at sam.org/family

CELEBRATING OUR LEGACY, LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

From The Archives

Did you know that The Octagonian has been a cornerstone of Sigma Alpha Mu for over a century? The first issue was published in November 1912 under the name The Fra. By the following month, in December 1912, the publication had taken on its iconic name, The Octagonian

Initially, the magazine ran as a monthly publication for the first five years, reflecting the rapid growth and vibrant energy of the fraternity. It then transitioned to a quarterly format, a tradition that endured for decades until recent years. Through every iteration, The Octagonian has remained a proud testament to the milestones, achievements, and bonds that unite our brotherhood across generations.

Thank You For Your Support

This issue of The Octagonian marks an exciting milestone as we introduce advertisements for the first time. This new step reflects the continued growth and support of our brotherhood. We are deeply grateful to our alumni, undergraduates, and partners who make this publication possible. Your support allows us to celebrate our shared history and strengthen the connections that unite us.

Thank you for being a part of our journey!

Did You Know?

The Sires and Sons tradition honors the unique legacy of multi-generational Sammys, where brothers continue the bond through their families. Some of these legacies span decades and even multiple generations!

Think you know the longest-lasting legacy family in Sigma Alpha Mu? Share your guess with us on the related social media post for this issue, and join the conversation in the comments!

RAY FAMILY

HERSTEIN FAMILY

ALPHA MU

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