Have You Heard

Fra Conrey

Fra Conrey (Cal State- Fullerton, '84) and his wife, Victoria, honored by CSU Fullerton following generous donation. The recently renamed Conrey Center for Entrepreneurship at California State University, Fullerton now carries the name in honor of donors Jerry Conrey and Dr. Victoria Shook Conrey, following their $4.5 million planned gift. The naming ceremony on October 2, 2025 celebrated the couple’s long-standing support of entrepreneurship education.

Jerry and Victoria Conrey explained that the center is intended as “a launchpad for bold ideas,” where students are encouraged “to take risks, to learn from setbacks and to create ventures that make a difference in our communities.” Their backing extends nearly two decades and includes mentorship and scholarships in addition to the naming gift.

CSUF’s College of Business & Economics leaders say the gift will expand opportunity for future generations of entrepreneurial students and strengthen the Southern California startup ecosystem. At the ceremony, student recipient Enrique “Ricky” Guerrero shared how the center's mentorship and the Conrey Scholarship helped redirect his education and career path.

In the words of the Conreys: “For Vicki and me, it’s both a privilege and a joy to give back to the place that gave us so much. The best return on investment we can ever make is in people. So, here’s my risk-management advice: Invest in people. It has the highest return, is guaranteed and has no fine print, exclusions or deductibles.”

Past Supreme Prior Conrey and Vicki are loyal supporters of ΣAM and members of the Foundation's Ira Lind Society.

Fra Itkin

The Longhorn Foundation and Texas Athletics announced a landmark $10 million gift from alumni Jason Itkin (UT-Austin, '95) and Kisha Itkin in support of the new Silver Spurs Center, part of the state-of-the-art football training facility currently under construction adjacent to Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium.

In recognition of their extraordinary generosity, the space will be named the “Jason & Kisha Itkin Silver Spurs Center” — creating a lasting legacy for future generations of Longhorns.

The 9,400-square-foot facility is designed to serve both as a premier gameday destination and a year-round hub for the Silver Spurs, the student organization responsible for the university’s iconic mascot, Bevo. The center will feature indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, a stage area, a “Bevo feature wall,” and event seating capable of hosting hundreds of alumni, students and guests.

For the Itkins, this gift holds special personal meaning: Jason Itkin served as President of the Silver Spurs during his undergraduate years at UT. Their support builds upon a longstanding commitment to their alma mater and reinforces the link between alumni-leaders and student-athletes. The announcement emphasized how the facility aligns with Texas Athletics’ drive for world-class infrastructure. Athletic Business

In the words of the Itkins:

“We owe so much of our personal and professional successes to the University of Texas.” said Jason Itkin. “It is an honor for us to be able to give back in a way that will help future generations of Silver Spurs and student-athletes grow into leaders that exemplify values like excellence, teamwork, and integrity.”

“We believe deeply that what starts here changes the world, and we are grateful to play a part in that mission,” added Kisha Itkin.

Fra Raffel

Leslie J. Raffel Foundation – $2.5 Million Gift to Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism at Indiana University Bloomington

The Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism (ISCA) at Indiana University Bloomington has received a $2.5 million commitment from the Leslie J. Raffel Foundation to establish an endowed chair. This new position will strengthen ISCA’s capacity to recruit a distinguished scholar who will conduct research, teach and lead public outreach on modern antisemitism—an area of growing urgency given rising anti-Jewish incidents.

ISCA, which launched under the university’s Borns Jewish Studies program, brings together faculty, visiting scholars and students to explore the history, causes and contemporary manifestations of antisemitism through lectures, research and collaboration. With the Raffel gift, the institute says it will be better positioned at the forefront of this work.

The gift reflects the enduring legacy of Leslie J Raffel (Purdue, '60), who joined the Chapter Eternal in 2023, and whose name continues to impact Jewish education and scholarship through the foundation bearing his legacy. The Foundation’s president, Bobby Gerber (Indiana, '90), an IU College of Arts & Sciences alumnus, past Consul of the Octagon, and proud Sigma Alpha Mu legacy, has continued to champion philanthropic investment in education, Jewish life, and community-centered initiatives.

This commitment not only honors Raffel’s lifelong dedication to learning and service but also underscores the lasting contributions of Sammies who continue to shape and strengthen institutions through leadership and philanthropy.

Fra Sakellaridis & Fra Kowachka

The Greenpoint YMCA’s annual “Spirit of Community” gala, held October 14 at Giando on the Water in Williamsburg, brought together North Brooklyn’s civic, business, and cultural leaders to honor neighborhood pillars. Co-emcees Gabe Sakellaridis (Stony Brook, '05) and Michael Kawochka (Buffalo, '91) led the event, which celebrated honorees including the historic restaurant Bamonte’s (marking 125 years), Paul Samulski (President of the North Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce), and Keia Clarke (CEO of the New York Liberty).

In addition, Gabriel Sakellaridis was named the 2025 Greenpoint YMCA Volunteer of the Year for his dedicated service to the community.

The gala highlighted the YMCA’s ongoing role as a community anchor amid neighborhood changes. Msgr. Jamie Gigantiello noted, “A neighborhood goes through many changes, and you need stable organizations that are anchors of a community that people can go to and get assistance while the neighborhood changes.” Funds raised through the event’s silent auction, donations, and attendance will support financial assistance, scholarships, and access programs for local neighbors.

Looking ahead, the YMCA plans to expand its footprint with a proposed 50,000-square-foot facility as part of Williamsburg’s “River Ring” development, promising enhanced services for the community.

Fra Bomberg

Fra Matt Bomberg (Minnesota, ’97) leads the charge as President & Managing Partner of Indiana’s newest summer-collegiate baseball team, the Richmond Flying Mummies.

A passionate baseball enthusiast and longtime community leader, Bomberg is bringing his vision and leadership to Historic Don McBride Stadium in Richmond, Indiana, where the Flying Mummies will debut in May 2026. Drawing on Richmond’s unique aviation history and the local lore surrounding mummies, Bomberg and his team have crafted a brand that blends fun, family-friendly entertainment with a strong sense of place.

“Baseball has always been about community and connection,” Bomberg said. “With the Flying Mummies, we’re not just building a team; we’re creating an experience that captures the heart of Richmond and brings people together.” His commitment to enhancing local culture extends beyond the field, with plans for upgraded stadium amenities and deep community outreach.

The Flying Mummies are set to soar in the Northwoods League, offering East-Central Indiana a vibrant new sports and social hub. Bomberg’s leadership promises to make the team a lasting fixture and a source of pride for the region.

Fra Vance

Fra Trevor Vance (Washington State, '17) Wins Election for Pullman City Council Ward 2

Trevor Vance was elected to Pullman City Council to represent Ward 2, capturing 250 votes in the November 4, 2025 election. A Washington State University alumnus and long-term Pullman resident, Vance describes himself as a results-driven leader who listens deeply to all parts of the community — students, families and business owners alike.

Fra Huntley

Fra Harry Huntley (Maryland, '18) Wins Election For Ward 1 Alderman

Harry Huntley, the current Ward 1 Alderman in Annapolis, won the 2025 general election after being appointed to the seat in 2024. During his first year, he has focused on improving pedestrian infrastructure, limiting short-term rentals, and serving as Chair of the Finance Committee. His campaign emphasizes local issues, community empowerment, and collaborative problem-solving.