The Octagonian Fall '25

Leadership in Motion

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity

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Octagonian FALL 2025

Honored to Serve Committed to Lead

Written by

Benji Bearman (University of Minnesota, '97) Supreme Prior

It is with deep honor and gratitude that I step into the role of Supreme Prior. Sigma Alpha Mu has given all of us friendships, leadership, and opportunities. As your Supreme Prior, I now have the privilege to give back and help sow the seeds for fraters and alumni across North America.

This moment in our history is both exciting and important.

We have a strong foundation built by generations before us—fratres who believed in our values and worked tirelessly to keep our traditions alive. It is our responsibility to carry that forward. The challenges we face

In this Issue Convention In REview

Find a summary of this years Convention, hosted in Minneapolis, MN. Find major moments, award results, and photos recapping the event!

are real, but so too are the opportunities: to strengthen our brotherhood, to grow our presence on campuses, engage alumni in significant ways and to ensure that the experience of joining ΣAM is as meaningful for the next generation as it was for each of us.

As I step into this role, my vision is both simple and ambitious: to preserve the traditions that make Sigma Alpha Mu so unique, while also strengthening the ways we support our undergraduates, alumni, and chapters.

Around the Chapters Discover each chapter's results for current membership and fall recruitment. In this issue, some chapters have shared notable events and campus partenrships that have helped them to thrive! You can also find out which chapters need your volunteer help as a chapter advisor.

Our strength has always come from fratres working together—listening, supporting, and challenging one another to be better. I look forward to working alongside you, whether in a chapter house, at a program such as CLD or Convention, or through the simple act of staying connected as members. Sigma Alpha Mu has always been

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Foundation and Scholarships Read on the newest Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation Director, a list of Guller Young Scholars, and more.

at its best when alumni across the country step forward; whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simply staying connected. Together, we can continue to make our organization not just strong, but extraordinary.

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I look forward to meeting many of you in the months ahead, listening to your stories, and working together.

Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me and in the

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Octagon. I’m excited for what we will accomplish on behalf of Sigma Alpha Mu.

Benji Bearman Supreme Prior The OCTAGONIAN ISSN 0744-6972 MATTHEW RAY, Editor Vol. CX No. 1 Fall 2025 ANDREW J. HUSTON, Executive Director The OCTAGONIAN is published by Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity, Inc. Copyright 2025 by ΣΑΜ. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The OCTAGONIAN, 8701 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268. All manuscripts and matter for publication should be addressed to Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity, 8701 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Return of manuscripts and photographs promised, if requested.

Articles published and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the editorial views of The OCTAGONIAN or of the international officers and various entities of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity.

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Fraternity Foundation Comprehensive Chapter Listing ΣAM National Properties Board Listing Address Phone

OCTAGON

sam.org sam-fdn.org sam.org/chapter-roll sam.org/staff 8701 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 (317) 789-8338

CANADIAN FOUNDATION

Supreme Prior: Benjamin Bearman (Skokie, IL)

President: Barry S. Arbus (Toronto, ON)

Vice Supreme Prior: Evan Remer (Bexley, OH)

Secretary: Howard Book (Toronto, ON)

Supreme Exchequer: Bruce Harris (Pikesville, MD)

Treasurer: Howard Kornblum (Toronto, ON)

Supreme Recorder: Dean Lambert (New Haven, CT)

Table of Contents Page 4 Meet the Supreme Council

Consul: David P. Kleppel (Blacklick, OH) Consul: Douglas G. Montgomery (Kyle, TX) Consul: David Sackler (Scottsdale, AZ)

BETA – Cornell

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

ETA – Syracuse THETA – Pennsylvania

Undergraduate Advisory Committee

Page 6 Stay connected Page 7 Founders Cup Page 8 Convention In Review

Jayden Lachhman (Delta Pi) Gib Paulisich (Beta Gamma) Peleg Wolfsohn (Sigma Delta)

ENDOWMENT FUND Chairman: David H. PhillIps (Westerville, OH) Vice Chairman: Marc E. Perlstein (Richardson, TX) Secretary: John Ale (Houston, TX)

page 12 Individual Awards

Treasurer: David S. Rice (Chicago, IL) Trustee: Jerry Goldberg (Mount Laurel, NJ)

Page 18 Around The Chapters Page 22 Foundation Director news

Trustee: Ira Rubenstein (Arlington, VA) Trustee: Mitch Manders (Carmel, IN)

FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President: Robert S. Weiss (Edmond, OK) Vice President: Dennis G. Paese (Newburgh, NY)

Page 23 guller young scholars Page 24 scholarship recipients

ACTIVE CHAPTER ROLL

KAPPA – Minnesota OMICRON – Cincinnati RHO – Illinois TAU – Alabama PSI – Pittsburgh SIGMA ZETA – Indiana SIGMA ETA - Purdue SIGMA THETA – Texas SIGMA IOTA – Michigan SIGMA OMICRON – Nebraska SIGMA CHI – Maryland SIGMA OMEGA – North Carolina State MU ETA – Drexel MU THETA – USC MU PI – Colorado MU CHI – Michigan State MU PSI – Miami OH BETA GAMMA – Arizona BETA IOTA – Wisconsin BETA PSI – Virginia

2nd Vice President: Lawrence J. Leib (Farmington Hills, MI)

BETA OMEGA – Kentucky Wesleyan

Treasurer: James Ryan Robertson (Fishers, IN)

GAMMA EPSILON – Illinois Chicago

Secretary: John A. Paine (Los Altos, CA) Assistant Treasurer: Nate B. Locklin (Pittsburgh, PA) At-Large: Offer Korin (Indianapolis, IN) Immediate Past President: Hanno D. Mott (New York, NY)

FOUNDATION DIRECTORS 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: Evan L. Lubline (Zionsville, IN) Director: Roy M. Neulicht (Raleigh, NC) Director: Andrew M. Paley (Dallas, TX) Director: Marc E. Perlstein (Richardson, TX) Director: David H. Phillips (Westerville, OH)

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

Director: David S. Rice (Chicago, IL)

ON THE COVER Sigma Chi - University of Maryland displays the Founders Cup, awarded to them at Convention, during their historic

Director: Richard H. Williamson (St. Simons Island, GA) Director: Lawrence B. Wittels (St. Louis, MO) Director: David K. Sergi (San Marcos, TX)

Follow us

Provisional Chapters: GAMMA SIGMA - Binghamton SIGMA DELTA - Rutgers KAPPA XI KAPPA - New Jersey Institute of Technology

Proud Member of

return to #2 Fraternity Row! Find our photos at sam.org/photos

Fall 2025

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2025 Supreme Council Evan holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from UT-Austin and an Supreme Prior

Vice Supreme Prior

MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana

Benji Bearman

Evan Remer

University. Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee,

(University of Minnesota, '97)

(University of Texas-Austin, '02)

Benji Bearman became a member of Sigma

Evan Remer joined the Sigma Theta Chapter of

Alpha Mu in 1993 at the University of Minnesota

Sigma Alpha Mu at the University of Texas-Austin

Kappa Chapter. He graduated with a Bachelor of

in 2002. As an undergraduate, Evan was a leader in

Arts degree. During his undergraduate years, he

both the Fraternity and Hillel, serving his chapter

was an involved member and served as Chapter

as Pledge Class President, Rush Captain, 1st Vice

Exchequer.

Prior, and Candidate Educator, and Texas Hillel as a member of their Student Executive Cabinet.

Benji is the CEO and co-founder of Liquid Screen

At ΣAM Convention 2005 in New Orleans, Evan

Design, a company renowned for innovation in

was elected by the Fraternity’s convention body

promotional products and physical branding.

to serve as the Undergraduate Consul on the

Under his leadership, Liquid Screen Design has

Octagon.

received numerous accolades, including "Best

Evan now lives inColumbus, OH with his wife Carolyn, their two children, Daniel and Vivian, and dog Charlie. In between driving his kids to various sports practices and extracurricular activities, Evan counts watching college football – especially cheering on the Longhorns – volunteering within the Jewish community, and curating/sharing top-tier memes on social media amongst his many passions.

Supreme Exchequer

Bruce Harris

Places to Work in Promo" by Counselor Magazine

As an alumnus, Evan has remained deeply

in both 2023 and 2024, and rapid sales growth

engaged with Sigma Alpha Mu. He previously

(University of Maryland, '72)

approaching 500% since 2019. Benji was honored

chaired both the Outreach & Marketing

Bruce Harris became a member of Sigma Alpha

as a Titan CEO in 2024. Benji was also named a

Committee and the Octagon Nominating

Mu in 1972 at University of Maryland (Sigma Chi

finalist for the ASI Salesperson of the Year in 2022.

Committee and contributed to ΣAM 2030 – the

Chapter). He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts

Fraternity’s strategic planning initiative. Evan has

degree in Journalism and served as Chapter Prior

Benji has served on the Octagon since 2019.

served on the Octagon since 2022 and was elected

and Exchequer among other offices.

Currently the Supreme Prior, he previously was

Vice Supreme Prior at ΣAM Convention 2025 in

Supreme Exchequer, contributed as a member

Minneapolis.

At Maryland Bruce was elected President of the Student Government Association, where he

of the Education Committee, and was Treasurer for Sigma Alpha Mu National Properties/Property

Professionally, Evan is a Product Manager on the

initiated and founded the Student Legal Aid Office

Management.

Commercial Lines Digital Distribution team at

in 1976 which has grown and thrived over the

Nationwide Insurance. His career has included

decades. He also held offices in the Interfraternity

Benji is deeply committed to professional

roles with Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish

Council.

excellence and community service, frequently

Campus Life, the American-Israel Chamber of

engaging in industry education and mentoring.

Commerce Southeast and Birthright Israel NEXT,

Bruce retired in 2022 from a career in not-for-profit

He resides in the Chicagoland area with his family.

amongst others.

management after working primarily at the World Wildlife Fund and American College of Cardiology.

Along with his wife Faye, he has three children, Mia, Leo and Lev.

Evan is also active in the Jewish community. He serves on the Board of Directors for both Texas

He also was active in local politics, elected and

Hillel and Congregation Tifereth Israel and is a

serving two terms on the Democratic State Central

member of JewishColumbus’ Community Impact

Committee and appointed to four terms over 16

Committee.

years to the Baltimore County Board of Elections where he served a term as Board President. He

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served as a Board Member of his synagogue, volunteers at Baltimore’s Hippodrome Theater to support travelling Broadway shows, and has volunteered for over 25 years at Manna House, a local soup kitchen.

Bruce lives in Pikesville, Maryland with his wife Lisa and has two daughters and a grandson that he adores.

Supreme Recorder

Dean Lambert (University of Nebraska-Lincoln. '82)

quickly rising as music director and promoted to

Dean holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing

Dean Lambert joined the Sigma Omicron chapter

assistant program director — recognized as one of

and an MBA with emphasis in Marketing

of Sigma Alpha Mu at the University of Nebraska-

the youngest rising star radio programmers in the

Management. He is passionate about business

Lincoln in 1982. He served the chapter on several

nation by Radio & Records Magazine in 1983.

strategy and leadership development, often

committees including candidate education,

coaching emerging leaders.

chapter history and social. After many years living

In 1989, Dean formed an advertising agency with

Dean and his wife Jill live in New Haven,

out of the state, Dean was called back to service

another Sigma Omicron alumnus, enjoying much

Connecticut. Jill is a Kappa Delta - Rho chapter

as the Nebraska ΣAM Foundation secretary during

success. By the mid 90s, Dean was fully committed

alumna. They have two daughters, McKenzie and

its pursuit of rechartering Sigma Omicron at UN-L

to helping funeral homes demystify their

Anna. Anna is a past president of Gamma Phi Beta

following a long absence from campus.

businesses through public relations efforts aimed

at the University of Northern Iowa.

at normalizing end-of life discussions and advance Dean’s passion for being an alumni volunteer

funeral planning. He retired after 25 years leading

Together, Dean and Jill spend time seeking

landed him a role on the national ΣAM

marketing and communications for Homesteaders

opportunities to support programs assisting

communication committee and ΣAM 2030

Life Company, a funeral funding insurance

military service members transition to civilian

Strategic Planning Committee. By 2018, Dean was

company. In 2023, The Selected Independent

life. They worked with members of Congress and

appointed to fill an open seat on the Octagon

Funeral Directors Educational Trust named Dean

veterans support groups to pass laws created to

and elected to his first term at the 2019 ΣAM

its “Ambassador of the Year” for his commitment to

strengthen focus on identifying at-risk veterans

International Convention. He has served two

making effective and impactful industry change.

and developing additional VA transition assistance

terms as Vice Supreme Prior and in 2025, elected Supreme Recorder.

programs aimed at reducing veteran suicide.

Today, he is Executive Director of the Life Insurers Council, a networking association of life insurance

Dean began his professional career in

company senior leaders who exchange knowledge

broadcasting while a sophomore at Nebraska,

and practical solutions to shared challenges.

R to L: Consul Montgomery; Supreme Prior Bearman; Supreme Exchequer Harris; Vice Supreme Prior Remer; Consul & Immediate Past Supreme Prior Kleppel; Supreme Recorder Lambert; Consul Sackler; Young Alumnus Consul Newman Fall 2025

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Stay Connected!

Below are a list of upcoming alumni events, know of a Sammy event that isn't listed below? Let us know!

• •

• • Kappa and Minneapolis area alumni gathered on Friday of Convention for an alumni reception at the Kappa Chapter House at the University of Minnesota.

• • • • • •

Octagon Meeting - November 6-9 - Washington, DC South Florida Alumni Chapter - Miami Heat Game Night - October 28 • RSVP to neilr64@gmail.com by October 15th Gamma Phi (ASU) Alumni Event - November 22 Phoenix, AZ SAM TriState Alumni Club Manhattan Happy Hour November - New York Epsilon Delta (JWU) 25th Anniversary - January 23 Long Island, NY ΣAM Foundation Meeting - February 20-21 - Las Vegas, NV Gamma Rho (UCSD) 40th Anniversary - February 20-22 - San Diego, CA Octagon Meeting - March 26-29, 2026 - Detroit / Ann Arbor, MI Convention 2026 - July 23-26, 2026 - TriState New York (location announcement coming soon) Convention 2027 - July 22-25, 2027 - Chicagoland

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Photos from the South Florida Alumni Association (above) and TriState Alumni Club (below) at events hosted over the summer

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Sigma Chi chapter delegates with Immediate Past SUpreme Prior Dave Kleppel

Sigma Chi Chapter Wins Founders Cup This year has been nothing short of monumental for the Sigma Chi Chapter at the University of Maryland–College Park.

With determination, vision, and strong collaboration between students and alumni, the chapter has elevated itself as a model of excellence within Sigma Alpha Mu and on its campus. Their outstanding achievements have earned them the prestigious 2025 Founders Cup, the Fraternity’s highest honor for overall chapter performance.

One of the most significant milestones for Sigma Chi has been the chapter’s partnership with its alumni. Together, they secured a lease to return to their original chapter house, a homecoming that strengthens the chapter’s presence on campus and reinforces its long-term sustainability. This achievement was made possible through the support of a highly involved alumni advisory board, whose mentorship and guidance have played a key role in the chapter’s recent growth.

Recruitment has also reached new heights.

Sigma Chi welcomed 26 new members last academic year, marking its strongest recruitment effort since the chapter’s return in 2016. This growth reflects not only the chapter’s strategic approach but also the strong culture and sense of community that has made it a top destination for students at Fall 2025

Maryland.

Philanthropy remains at the heart of Sigma Chi’s success. Last year, the chapter hosted the “Sammy Smash” pickleball fundraiser, raising more than $3,700 for The Judy Fund in support of Alzheimer’s research. Their efforts not only raised critical funds but also built awareness and fostered campus-wide involvement in a cause that resonates deeply with Sigma Alpha Mu.

"moving back into #2 fraternity row means so much to me... it 's where we built our strongest bonds, shared unforgettable experiences, and truly grew as brothers." brothers. " -Howard Miller '54

The University of Maryland has taken notice of Sigma Chi’s impact as well. The chapter received the award for Best IFC Chapter on campus in five of the past six years, underscoring its consistent leadership in the fraternity and sorority community. In addition, Sigma Chi was recognized for Best New Member Programming, an honor that highlights the chapter’s commitment to fostering meaningful experiences and developing future leaders.

Academics remain a priority, too. With a chapter GPA of 3.52, Sigma Chi members are excelling in the classroom while balancing leadership, service, and campus engagement. With a roster of about 60 dedicated members, the chapter continues to demonstrate that academic achievement and involvement go hand-in-hand.

Taken together, these achievements exemplify what it means to uphold Sigma Alpha Mu’s mission and values. Sigma Chi is setting a new standard for excellence, not only for its campus community but also for the entire Fraternity.

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2025 Convent

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Founders Level Chapters

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Theta - University of Pennsylvania Kappa - University of Minnesota Psi - University of Pittsburgh Sigma Chi - University of Maryland Mu Eta - Drexel University 8

Mu Chi - Michigan State University Gamma Tau - University of Alabama Delta Beta - American University Delta Omega - Rochester Institute of Technology SAM.ORG

tion In Review Scholastic Recruitment Recognition Awards Excellence Awards Given to chapters that have exceeded their campus's All Men's Average in the previous academic year, listed in founding order.

Spring 2024: Rho - University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign Mu Chi - Michigan State Fall 2024: Psi - University of Pittsburgh Kappa - University of Minnesota Eta - Syracuse University Epsilon Xi - Emory University Epsilon Pi - University of Rhode Island Sigma Omega - North Carolina State University Sigma Zeta - Indiana University Both Spring 2024 and Fall 2024: Theta - University of Pennsylvania Sigma Eta - Purdue University Sigma Theta - University of Texas Sigma Iota - University of Michigan Sigma Chi - University of Maryland

Fall 2025

2024-2025 Academic School Year Largest Number of Initiates Beta Gama - University of Arizona 68 Initiates Largest Percent Change in Chapter Size Sigma Chi - University of Maryland 173% increase

Largest Percent of Initiates Small Chapter Winner Mu Eta - Drexel University 163% increase Large Chapter Winner Eta - Syracuse University 110% increase

Dedication to Service Award Large Chapter WInner Theta - University of Pennsylanvia Small Chapter Winner Delta Omega - Rochester Institute of Technology

Dedication to Philanthropy Large Chapter Winner Delta Zeta - Florida International University Small Chapter Winner Gamma Tau - University of Florida

Chapter Publications Award Gamma Tau - University of Florida

IDEA Award

Psi - University of Pittsburgh

Religious Endeavor Award

Sigma Theta - University of Texas at Austin Sigma Zeta - Indiana University

Risk Management Award

Mu Theta - University of Southern California Mu Eta - Drexel University

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ΣAM MAN OF THE YEAR

Ambassador Samuel L. Kaplan (Kappa, ’55) is our 2025 Achievement Award Recipient!

The Sigma Alpha Mu Achievement Award is presented annually to one member whose outstanding achievements, apart from fraternity activities, are deemed worthy of the highest recognition by the Fraternity.

Samuel Kaplan joined Sigma Alpha Mu’s Kappa Chapter at the University of Minnesota in 1955. He was a member of the All-University Congress and IFC Judiciary Committee when Kappa Chapter won the Founders Cup in 1957. He was elected to serve as Prior of the chapter. His quest to make an impact on the world was already on record.

Fra Kaplan went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota Law School from which he graduated with honors and was Editor in Chief of the Minnesota Law Review.

He is one of the few American Jews to represent the United States in a Muslim nation. Samuel L. Kaplan served as the U.S. Ambassador to The Kingdom of Morocco from 2009 to 2013. Ambassador Kaplan traveled widely throughout Morocco, meeting with Moroccans from all walks of life to help fulfill President Obama’s vision of a new beginning for U.S. relations with the Muslim world based on mutual respect and defined by partnerships in areas of mutual interest.

Ambassador Kaplan is a founding member of Kaplan, Strangis and Kaplan, P.A. established in 1978. He has served on the boards of directors of several publicly-held companies, including Piper Jaffray Companies, where he served as lead Director.

Fra Kaplan has been engaged in numerous community and political activities including the Jewish Community Federation where he served as its youngest president. His extensive political activities included supporting Senator Paul Wellstone, President Barack Obama, and others in leadership roles for human rights and preserving the strength of our legal system.

Fra Kaplan was joined by his wife Sylvia at the Convention Banquet. He shared the important roles that organizations such as Sigma Alpha Mu play in the lives of its members.

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Individual Awards Campus Based Professional Greer Vinall - University of Arizona

Chapter Advisor of the Year Ryan Winthrop - Mu Pi & Mu Theta Orlando Amorín - Delta Zeta

Mental Health Awareness Award Kadin Gazal - Delta Pi

Prior of the Year

Dominic Hobart - Sigma Omega

Vice Prior of the Year Chris Hempstead - Delta Pi

Exchequer of the Year Emory McNider - Tau Milan Jain - Mu Eta

Recorder of the Year Ahmet Yalim Kiral - Mu Eta

IDEA Award

Colin "CJ" Crawford - Mu Eta

Outstanding Athlete of the Year Will Bazenas - Psi

Alumni Recorder of the Year Colin Holierhoek - Delta Pi

Recruiter of the Year Charlie Nirenstein - Kappa

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Rabbi Liebman Award Judd Isaacs - Psi

Stewardship Award

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Jacob Rossi - Delta Beta

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Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize the Sigma Zeta Sigma Zeta Chapter at Indiana University as the recipient of the 2025 Supreme Prior’s Trophy, awarded annually to the most Chapter at Indiana improved chapter in the Fraternity.

Indiana University, Sigma Zeta’s legacy is marked by University Awarded Atresilience and a commitment to progress. While their Chapter Performance Report (CPR) scores improved dramatically Supreme Prior’s on paper, their success extends beyond metrics. Sigma Zeta has focused on enhancing the member experience, Trophy for Most strengthening relationships with the International Headquarters staff, their dedicated Chapter Advisor Paul (Delta Eta, '01), and Indiana University’s Office of Improved Chapter Swartz Sorority and Fraternity Life (OSFL).

This year, Sigma Zeta stood out particularly in community involvement and philanthropy. The chapter hosted its Annual Ball at the Hall, raising more than $12,000 for the Lauri S. Bauer Foundation, and launched the inaugural Miles for Matt 5K run/walk, supporting the Matthew Friedman Memorial to advance brain aneurysm research and awareness.

“The Supreme Prior’s Trophy represents the power of dedication, collaboration, and growth,” said Executive Director Andy Huston. “Sigma Zeta has shown what can be achieved when chapters embrace their resources, commit to excellence, and strengthen their bonds within the campus and broader community.”

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Pictured left to right: Supreme Prior Benji Bearman (Kappa, ’97), Award Recipient Nick D’Addabbo (Beta Upsilon/Tau, ’09), and Executive Director Andy Huston (Kappa, ’01).

Richie H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award

"Not just an incredible leader, but a good friend...", Supreme Prior Benji Bearman Nicholas D’Addabbo (Beta Upsilon/Tau, ’09) has been named our 2025 recipient of the Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award. The Fraternity’s operations rely heavily on the time, talent, and treasure of its alumni, who selflessly contribute to the advancement of Sigma Alpha Mu and the enrichment of its members.

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Fra D’Addabbo has volunteered for Sigma Alpha Mu for ten years, giving himself to the fraternity and helping to enrich the undergraduate experience.

As an integral part of ΣAM's education programs, Fra D’Addabbo thinks through the lens of the undergraduates in order to maximize our time in delivering impactful programs to help shape, mold, and educate leadership.

the

Fra D’Addabo has served as chair of both the Chapter Leaders Day and Leadership Conference, and now serves as the Education Chair of the Fraternity, where he intends to continue his involvement.

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*Learn more at nicfraternity.org/healthandssafety

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2025 Certificate of Merit Ira Rubenstein's Impact Beyond Sigma Alpha Mu Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize Ira Rubenstein (Gamma Rho, ’86) as the 2025 recipient of the Certificate of Merit. The Certificate of Merit shall be awarded to such alumni whose service and achievements in community endeavors are deemed by the Octagon worthy of national recognition. This is an award about giving back to the community beyond Sigma Alpha Mu to help repair the world.

Fra Rubenstein enrolled at UC-San Diego where he was a Founding Father of Gamma Rho Chapter and served as their first exchequer. He has been an advisor, regional governor, Consul and Supreme Recorder on the Octagon, Endowment Fund Trustee, ΣAM 2030 Chairman, and served on the the Executive Director Search Committee.

This award recognizes his community impact beyond the fraternity. He has served on the Alumni Association Board at UC San Diego, where he was also elected president; the USC Marshall School of Business Advisory Board; and as an adjunct professor of marketing at American University. Ira has been involved with the “On Our Sleeves” Advisory Board and championed children’s mental health.

Ira serves on the Disability and Accessibility Peer Group of the Motion Picture Academy (The Oscars) as well as the Disability and Accessibility Peer group of the TV Academy (The Emmys). He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Hearing Loss Association of America and was recently elected chairman of the board.

Fall 2025

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Fraternities Lead Antisemitism Response Written by

Andy Huston (Minnesota, '01), Executive Director

Seven groups lead antisemitism response It’s no secret to any alumnus of a Jewish fraternity or sorority that our organizations are special – and because of this distinctiveness, often set apart and misunderstood from other Greek letter chapters and student groups.

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Fraternities and sororities are the largest and oldest organizations providing a campus home for Jewish students. In a historic cooperative effort, the leadership of six Jewish fraternities and sororities in partnership with the Piazza Center have banded together to address those misconceptions and prove to the world that our students deserve better.

“Unfortunately, addressing incidents of antisemitism and bias directed at Sigma Alpha Mu members and chapter houses is nothing new. We’ve discovered that the prevalence of these incidents is often underreported because members brush off antisemitic slurs as ‘jokes’ and don't want to identify as a victim. In other instances, they don’t want to draw more attention to the chapter or their house. Our research partners have also identified this as a significant gap within scholarly research in higher education and related to fraternities and sororities,” shared Sigma Alpha Mu Executive Director Andy Huston, CAE. “By partnering with other organizations and the Piazza Center, we will help document the pervasiveness of these issues with basic facts and recorded testimonials so we can take this information to universities and advocate for our members.”

The Jewish Fraternity and Sorority Committee is working to get students the support they urgently need on campus, and its action plan is rooted in data. The Committee is supporting research to unequivocally prove to university administrators, government 16

agencies and policy-makers that change is necessary.

who work directly with Greek letter groups.

Initial findings included:

Few academic studies exist that address the challenges faced by Jewish college students, particularly those who choose to join a fraternity or sorority. University administrators and the staff who work with fraternities and sororities lack understanding how to directly support Jewish students and, worse, have limited resources for education and for those students.

•

•

• “Universities are not doing enough to defend and help Jewish students. Our presence on campus is vital to so many,” said Bonnie Wunsch, Executive Director of Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority and co-chair of the committee.

“Being a member of a Jewish sorority or fraternity gives students a home on campus where they can be proud of their Jewish identity in a safe environment.”

In March 2023, the Piazza Center’s Jewish Fraternity and Sorority Committee was formed to help guide research in partnership with Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity, Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority, Sigma Delta Tau Sorority, Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity, Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity and a local chapter at Penn State, Beta Sigma Beta.

The JFSC engaged researchers to seek this data. Established in January 2019, the Piazza Center is a research facility dedicated to the Greek-letter community, reaching across 800 campuses and addressing crucial issues for fraternity and sorority members' success and safety like hazing, dangerous drinking, and mental health.

•

These university staff members are not prepared to handle antisemitic incidents and do not understand the impact on Jewish students.

Universities do not have structures in place to support their staff or students when antisemitic incidents happen.

Education and prevention resources are scarce.

Campuses do not include Jewish groups in diversity conversations.

University and/or governmental policy typically ignores antisemitism or, worse, upholds rules that are antisemitic in nature

This was before the terror attacks of Oct. 7, 2023, and subsequent Israel-Hamas war – which immediately compounded these issues.

Since late 2023, JFSC and Piazza Center leadership doubled down on these plans, focusing on the changed campus climate, the rise of protests and the impact on individual Jewish students and their safety. The work has continued, moving audiences, with researchers hearing from students about their experiences. Findings from the analysis of student data are in the final stages and will be published soon. The next phase of research will be to seek comparable data from alumni members.

Continues on the next page . >>

“We are learning ways to make students safe and create thriving Greek life for all students, including those who are Jewish,” said Stevan Veldkamp, Executive Director of the Piazza Center. “Our research will focus on historically Jewish chapters and members, but we look to The Israeli-ΣAM Flag Pin is available for purchase discover ways to support Jewish students in for $18. Proceeds support the fraternity’s any student organization.” continued programming against antisemitism, student safety, and Israel education.

This fraternal research started in early 2023, with the Piazza Center team leading focus groups with the university staff members

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

SAM.ORG

The work completed so far has been generously funded by gifts from the Foundations that support Jewish Fraternity and Sorority Committee member organizations, including Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. Penn State hopes to generate an endowment to support Piazza Center research.

If you are interested in supporting these research projects with your financial support, please scan the QR code below or visit https://secure.paperlesstrans.com/ SigmaAlpha and note Piazza Research in the “Please Apply My Gift To” field on the donation form.

Written by

Matthew Ray (Kentucky Wesleyan, '17) Communications Manager

Share Your Story, Reach Our Audience Every issue of The Octagonian celebrates the impact of Sigma Alpha Mu alumni, undergraduates, and friends across North America. Now, for the first time, we're opening the pages of our magazine to businesses, organizations, and individuals who want to reach our loyal readership while supporting the Fraternity's mission.

Advertising in The Octagonian is more than just an ad, it's an opportunity to connect with a highly educated, succesful audience of professionals, business leaders, and philantrophists who share strong ties to their communities and with their fraternity.

In 2024 alone, we printed and mailed over 29,000 copies of The Octagonian to alumni, members, and friends across the globe. On top of that, each of our 3 digital editions is shared directly with 22,000 inboxes and promoted through our website and social media, extending your visibility across multiple channels and touchpoints. This broad outreach allows The Octagonian to offer an unmatched visibility to an audience that values companies and organizations who invest in our story.

Why advertise with us?

• Targeted reach: Access alumni and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu across the county • Multi-Channel Exposure: One annual print plus three digital editions with extended reach online.

Fall 2025

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Flexible Options: From eighth-page ads to premium placements and back covers.

Value Packages: Discounts for nonprofits, full-year bundles, and multiyear commitments.

Advertising doesn't just showcase your business, it helps to sustain The Octagonian and keeps alumni connected to the Fraternity that they love. Whether you are a small business owner, nonprofit leader, or service provider looking to grow, this is your chance to stand alongsisde the content our members care about most.

Ad Rates at a Glance • • • • • •

Full Page: $2,200 (Print) | $2,000 (Digital) Half Page: $1,200 (Print) | $1,000 (Digital) Quarter Page: $750 (Print) | $650 (Digital) Eighth Page:: $450 (Print) | $400 (Digital) Premium and Back Cover placements available Save 10-15% with annual or multi-year packages

Design services are included for simple ads, so even if you don't have artwork, our team can help you create a professional design.

To learn more or reserve your space, email editor@sam.org .

Make a lasting impression. Share your story.

Support The Octagonian

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This Fall Octagonian highlights chapter updates and events.

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CHAPTER INFORMATION Fall '25 New Members**

Total Member Count*

*This number reflects the total number of initiates and candidates **Please note that these numbers are only those that have been reported as of 10/1/25 and may not accurately or fully represent fall recruiting totals Chapters with this icon are in need of volunteer alumni advisors

Some Chapters may have highlights featuring notable events, philanthropy, campus partnerships and more!

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University of Illinois

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University of Michigan

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The Rho Chapter has been very motivated in their efforts to work with headquarters on recruiting and building a strong candidate class to ensure long term success. The members have also expressed their heartfealt gratitude for all of the support received from HQ, their alumni, as well as Chabad!

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Indiana University

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While this may not seem significant, this is the first fall recruitment class in decades! This recruiting effort was possible through the support of Membership Experience Specialist Riley Bleisch, who is living and working in Philadelphia, building that relationship.

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University of Minnesota

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North Carolina State University

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Our Sigma Eta Chapter has been very proactive on campus with events such as their bagel break hosted in August.

Through a good relationship with their alumni and support from Hillel, Purdue has been striving to find the next group of leaders with which they can build the foundations that were created by their founders.

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University of Texas

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Purdue University

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University of Cincinnati

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Sigma Chi had an outstanding summer featuring many feats. Among these included a total of 173% chapter growth over the previous school year, raising $3700 for the Judy Fund, winning the President's Cup for Best IFC Chapter and Best New Member Programming at University of Maryland, as well as bringing home the Founders Cup at the 2025 Convention! To round out their summer, they hosted a house re-opening for their historic return to #2 Fraternity Row (pictured on cover).

University of Pennsylvania

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University of Alabama

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Drexel University

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Mu Eta hosted a successful alumni event this past spring with 18 attendees. The chapter also continues to update their alumni with a successful newsletter and Facebook group. They also continue to host workshops and promote health and safety within the chapter through a partnership with Drexel PD.

2 Continues on the next page . >>

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University of Southern California

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Brandeis University

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Kentucky Wesleyan College

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Temple University

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Johnson & Wales

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Illinois State University

University of Virginia

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University of Wisconsin

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Michigan State University

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SWAG!

University of Rhode Island

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Provisional Chapters: ΣΔ

Rutgers University

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PERFECT FOR GIFTS!

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Binghamton University

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TONS OF STYLES TO CHOOSE FROM!

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New Jersey Institute of Technology

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The Kappa Xi Kappa Chapter has officially been recognized as Sigma Alpha Mu on the NJIT Campus and have repainted their house with purple letters!

ORDER HERE!

Fall 2025

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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.

2025 Day of Giving Continues To Raise Money For All Fratres!

Guller Young Scholars

Breaking all records, the ΣAM Foundation 2025 Day of Giving raised $55,965 from 245 donors!

The Guller Young Scholars Program was created by past Supreme Prior and Foundation Director Sidney Guller (Washington Univ/Phi ’43). While Fra Guller has joined Chapter Eternal, this program continues with the support of the Sidney & Bobette Guller Foundation.

You are the reason for our continued success- THANK YOU! These record breaking investments in the Foundation will be used to expand our scholarship program to meet unmet need from applicants, continue to support our Jewish heritage through our Jewish Endeavors Initiative program, support educational needs in housed chapters and increase our grants to the fraternity for educational programing and leadership development of our young fratres. Ultimately, these investments help ensure that the positive ΣAM experience continues for current and future members!

Congratulations to the Kappa chapter for winning a $5000 grant toward their Chapter Education Fund for having the most donors this year!

Thank you again to all the fraters and friends that took the time to be part of this special day!

New Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation Director

Each of these fratres earned a 3.75 or higher the semester of their initiation and received a $500 award for their academic excellence and fraternal values. The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation would like to welcome these new Initiates to Sigma Alpha Mu and wish the 2024-25 Guller Young Scholars continued success!

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At its July 2025 Annual Meeting, the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation elected David Sergi (Gamma Kappa/Texas A&M, ’82) to its board of directors for a three-year term. David is a lawyer in San Marcos, Texas, where his practice combines his courtroom expertise in the areas of commercial and criminal litigation along with his passion for family law. Fra Sergi was a founding member of Gamma Kappa/ Texas A&M and is a long-time ΣAM volunteer; his lengthy fraternity résumé includes service as Supreme Prior (2015–2018). David is the father of Anne; his son Matthew is also a member of ΣAM.

Thank You, Fra Unger!

Thank you to Brad Unger, Sigma Kappa/Lehigh ’94, who completed his service as a Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation Director at the July Annual Meeting.

Brad served two terms on the board and led the Foundation’s 2030 Vision planning process. “Brad’s leadership and thoughtful planning was an essential part of the Foundation’s efforts to expand support for Sigma Alpha Mu members, chapters, and programs,” shared Bob Weiss, Foundation President.

David Sergi

SIdney Guller

This page is made possible by the Richard H. Williamson Octagonian Fund

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2024-2025 Guller Young Scholars Cornell University/Beta • Lawrence Granda Zarzuela University of Arizona/Beta Gamma • Noah Glenn University of Wisconsin/Beta Iota • Gavin Boyarsky • Aidan Decker • Cole Gerson • Jesse Ryback • Corey Sherman • Zack Spector • Spencer Teman • Jason Tutundgy • Dylan Wolk • Aiden Yedidsion • Ryan Zeh American University/Beta Delta • Luke Dibonaventura University of Virginia/Beta Psi • Christian Phillip Diener • John Dryden • Jack Levine • Paris Phan Rochester Institute of Technology/Delta Omega • Jason Bradbury • Thomas Dewey • Ari Hollingsworth Ottawa University/Delta Pi • Christopher Hourany University of Connecticut/Epsilon Nu • Eliyahu Cohen University of Rhode Island/Epsilon Pi • Nico Collins • Charlie Mather Emory University/Epsilon Xi • Sanjit Hajgude • Shaan Jani • Asher Seibel • Nils Cohen • Max Halaas • Max Halsey • Andy Judlowe • Liam Klebanov • Connor May • Sammy Nieder • Eric Rabinovich • Aryan Rana • Jake Stone • Duncan Taylor Syracuse University/Eta • Eric Gegiu • Ethan Kraut University of California-San Diego/Gamma Rho • Naveem Weedagama

University of Florida/Gamma Tau • Connor Garcia • Connor Harlacher • Trevor Tillander • Joaquin Tinetti • Erick Zayas Ramos

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Binghamton Univ/Gamma Sigma • Yadid Orlow

North Carolina State University/Sigma Omega • Colin McBane • Connor O'Toole

University of Minnesota/Kappa • Max Diwik • Aiden Goldstein • Elijah Katter Michigan State University/Mu Chi • Daniel Murphy • Gavin Schehr Drexel Univesity/Mu Eta • Timaeous Picarelli University of Southern California/Mu Theta • Luke Bell • Teddy Diamond • Tadgh O'Sullivan-Bakshi University of Illinois-Urbana/Rho • Can Almelek • Ethan Fogel • Seth Freedman • Jacob Harris University of Maryland/Sigma Chi • Spencer Bauman • Jack Benson • Sawyer Bloom • Evan Geisner • Tyler Kodish • Max Keeling • Sam Stewart-Sicking • Alex Tamagno • Benjamin Wysmuller Rutgers University/Sigma Delta • Olexandr Grach • James Guarino • Ethan Smith Purdue University/Sigma Eta • Truman Parrish University of Michigan/Sigma Iota • Jose Alava • Eli Emmanuel • Noah Finkelstein • Mason Goodstat • Ben Gordon • Spencer Harris • Evan Hurwitz • Michael Iryami • Sam Lukashok • Tyler Lustig • George Minikes • Rhett Needleman • Luke Polatch • Jack Pollock • Dylan Reichel • Eli Rosenblatt

Noah Rubach Ethan Saba Ayaan Sheikh Johnny Spar Sloan Steinberg Max Tahl

University of Texas -Austin/Sigma Theta • Alexander Bani-Esraili • Joseph Caleb Shabot • Daniel Dori • Sam Fruitbine • Leor Goldstein • Jake Horowitz • Francisco Intebi • Ari Karageorge • Ben Klein • Jesse Lavin • Jarrett Leitman • Jordan Lubowitz • Dylan Marciano • Elliot Perel • Conor Ranawat • Kieran Redington • Cameron Roberts • Lucas Roberts • Charlie Robin • Zach Rosner • Shane Schack • Cooper Schorr • Ryan Schwartz • Ethan Silverstein • Jude Swagel • Luke Tlusty • Zane Zientz • Jacob Cohen Indiana University/Sigma Zeta • Jacob Cohen • Aidan Forbes • Harry Forde • Dylan Golizio • Cole Goodman • Dean Hammerman • Brendan Heneghan • Ben Lewis • Michael Maddy • Noah Petrassi • Cooper Titan University of Pennsylvania/Theta • Nathan Aronson • Ivan Boyko • Max Davis • Josh Levine • Oliver Pan • Bell Tran • Max Veksler • Vikram Verma • Eli Zahavi University of Alabama/Tau • Ryan Solomon

This page is made possible by the Richard H. Williamson Octagonian Fund

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Congratulations to our 2025 Sigma Alpha Mu Scholarship Recipients Special Congratulations to our 2025 Glazer Family Jewish Studies Scholarship Recipients: Etai Geller (Sigma Theta/ Univ Texas Austin) & Ben Sherman (Sigma Theta/Univ Texas Austin) who each received $14,500.

Glazer Family Scholarships are for Jewish Studies majors/ minors at Sigma Theta, Sigma Zeta, Sigma Beta, Sigma Nu or Gamma Chi chapters

UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS American University/ Delta Beta Jacob Rossi Preston Robert Tisch Scholarship $2500 Avyay Sriperumbudur Louis B. Pearlman Scholarship $500 Arizona State University/ Gamma Phi Tyler Riggi Louis & Fannie Guller Scholarship $1000 Jordan Steuer Steven Dachinger Memorial Scholarship $1000 Binghamton University /Gamma Sigma Yadid Orlow Margie & Paul Alperson Scholarship $1000 Gil Goldstein Gormin Trailblazer Award $1000

Ben Sherman & Etai Geller (Sigma Theta) 2025 Graduate Scholarship Highlights

Samuel Miller Research Award: Aaron Benlolo (Mu Theta/ USC) attending Columbia University Dentistry for research in pediatric dentistry $3000 Theda & Leonard Leventhal Scouting Award: For Eagle Scout Alex Neuhusan (Beta/Cornell) attending University of Texas Law School $2500 William Ober Scholarship: Peyton O'Hara (Mu Psi/Miami) attending University of Dayton School of Law $2500 William Ober Scholarship: Craig Jacobson-Imelt (Beta/ Cornell) attending Georgetown University $2500

Allan E. Miller Scholarship Alex Bein (Theta/UPenn) attending Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Jefferson University $1000

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Chief Justice Norman Krivosha Scholarship $1000 & Hanno Mott Scholarship $1000 Alon Barzani (Sigma Theta/Texas) attending SMU School of Law

Brandeis University/ Gamma Chi Gonzalo Palafox Todd Marks PRIDE Scholarship $500 Cramer Gotthelf John Paine Scholarship $1000 John Vnek Marvin Gilman Top Junior Scholar Award $1000 Nate Satterfield Martin E. Sherman Scholarship $1000 Ethan Bear Marvin Mitchell Scholarship $500 Cornell University/ Beta Louis Zavala Dennis Paese Scholarship $1000 Lance Zeligson Ron Kapon Scholarship $500 Alexander Neahusan Theda & Leonard Leventhal Scholarship $2500* Leo Madera Castellanos Bernard R Goodman Memorial Scholarship $1000

Emory University/ Epsilon Xi Ryan Peskin Viviane & Steve Franklin Scholarship $500 Phillip Bang L & S Milken Scholarship $2000 Evan Malinow Lawrence D. Schaffer Scholarship $1500 Florida International University/ Delta Zeta Kristian Gonzalez Jonathan A. Schmidt Biomedical Engineering Scholarship $1000 Juan Moran Morris & Fannie Skilken Scholarship $1000 Trevor See IDEA Scholarship $1000 Sebastian Anadon Margolis-Epps Scholarship $1000 Jason Carter Gormin Family Scholarship $2000 Indiana University Bloomington/ Sigma Zeta Aidan Forbes Sam Fox Scholarship $1000 Max Daniels Albert J. Kauff Memorial Scholarship $1000 Max Lapointe Alvin E. Cohen Scholarship $1000 Jack Harris Joel & Linda Beren Jewish Communal Service Scholarship $1000 Andrew Kuznetsov Andy Dickson Memorial Scholarship $4000 Jerry Schostak Sigma Zeta Scholarship $2000 Bryce Berger Remak-Rosenberg Scholarship $1000 Aaron Mages Gerber Family Scholarship $1000 Alex Baker Hurst Family Scholarship $1500

Drexel University /Mu Eta Oluwapelumi Ilo Michael Karl Memorial Scholarship $500 Caleb Eun Robert Nerz Scholarship $500 Ahmet Yalim Kiral Henry & Evelyn Moss Scholarship $1000

Alex Baker (Sigma Zeta) This page is made possible by the Richard H. Williamson Octagonian Fund

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Kentucky Wesleyan /Beta Omega Dillon Schueler William Gilliam Scholarship $1000* Miami University/ Mu Psi Drew Riley Mom Keene Scholarship $1000 Kenny Clark Joel & Keith Levy Accounting Scholarship $500 Robert Zielsdorf Cornick-Simkins Scholarship $1000 Luke Manche Tommy Howe III Memorial Scholarship $1000 Shai Galili Howard Natal Memorial Scholarship $500 Caleb Strull Jerry Miller Scholarship $1000 Michigan State University /Mu Chi Matthew Kay L. Mark Newman Scholarship $1250 Gavin Schehr L. M. Newman Family Scholarship $1000 Matthew Richards Craig L. Ludin Scholarship $500 Kyle Keegan L. Mark Newman Scholarship $1250 New Jersey Int of Technology/Kappa Xi Kappa Pablo Baez Kappa Xi Kappa Welcome Scholarship $1500 Adam Kuczynski Helen Schwartz Scholarship $1000 North Carolina State University /Sigma Omega Dominic Hobart Joseph Dave Memorial Scholarship $1000 Tyler Mahoney Judy Schwartz Scholarship $1000 Aidan Glickman Joel Honigberg Scholarship $1000 Frederick Jaeger Lee Garrett Chemical Engineering Medical School Scholarship $1000 Sebastian Hodgins Ben Anderson Memorial Scholarship $1000 Jake Hoyle Benjamin P Goldman Scholarship $1000 Matt Carrico Ben Anderson Memorial Scholarship $1000 Connor O'Toole Richie & Kevin Williamson Scholarship $1000 Charlie McCoy Roy & Ann Neulicht Scholarship $1000 Keagan Donovan Robert S Elster Memorial Scholarship $1000

Sigma Omega Chapter Members Fall 2025

Ottawa University/ Delta Pi Evan Redmond Samuel Gotfrid Scholarship $1000 Jean-Luc Fournier Pauline & Albert Pattenick Scholarship $1000 Kadin Gazal Bora Laskin Scholarship $1000 Purdue University/ Sigma Eta Andrew Robertson Alan Grushcow Memorial Scholarship $1000 Nathan Azimov Leslie J. Raffel Scholarship $4000 David Schwartzman Donald Stein Legacy Scholarship $1000 Rochester Institute of Technology/ Delta Omega Derek Laemlein Harold R. Stiefel Memorial Scholarship $1000 Jack Scherson Mu Gamma 50th Anniversary Scholarship $1000 Jack Canedy Ira & Karen Selss Scholarship $1000 Soren Orcutt September 11th Scholarship $1000 Ari Hollingsworth Sidney H. Guller Scholarship $2000 Tyler Barnes James C. Hammerstein Scholarship $2000 Matthew London Wallach Associates Inc Scholarship $1000

Sigma Delta Chapter Members

Rutgers University /Sigma Delta Founding Father Scholarships awarded In Memory of Michael El-Far Ethan Smith Sigma Delta Founding Fathers Scholarship $500 Olexandr Grach Sigma Delta Founding Fathers Scholarship $500 Peleg Wolfsohn Joseph Weinberg Scholarship $1000 Daniel Schwartzman Charles E. Gettleman Memorial Scholarship $500 James Guarino Harold Brandman Scholarship 1$500 Aayush Parekh Sigma Delta Founding Fathers Scholarship $500 Param Savalia Felix Jager Scholarship $1000 Kevin Roginski Sigma Delta Founding Fathers Scholarship $500 Nathan Choke David Lloyd Kreeger Scholarship $1000 Jack Farber Charles E. Gettleman Memorial Scholarship $500 Christopher Tighe Sigma Delta Founding Fathers Scholarship $500

SUNY-Geneseo/ Epsilon Epsilon Logan Martin Geno & Monica Schnell Scholarship $500 Stephen F. Austin State University /Epsilon Alpha Lucas Moore Grace Bender Scholarship $1000 Stony Brook University/Delta Theta Andrew Colletta Jonathan A. Schmidt Memorial Scholarship $2000* Syracuse University /Eta Justin Rappaport Walter Rose Scholarship $1000 Aidan Gurvitch Ron Rapchik Mu Phi Scholarship $1000 Nathaniel Herndon Marshall M. Gelfand Scholarship $1000 Ryan Scheiner Morris Family Scholarship $1000 Texas A&M University/ Gamma Kappa Salvador Jimenez James & Elsie Rasbold Scholarship $1000 Jack Martin Dr. F Gary Toback Memorial Scholarship $1000 University of Alabama /Tau Brenton Hamil Robert L. Burg Scholarship $4000* Kyle VanderWeit Robert L. Burg Scholarship $4000* Andrew Stephenson Robert L. Burg Scholarship $4000* Ivan Pelley Robert L. Burg Scholarship $2000* Daniel Barriga Tau Educational Scholarship $2000 *Created by the Estate of Robert L. Burg University of Arizona /Beta Gamma Jorge Vasquez Michael J.Weiss Memorial Scholarship $1000 Parker Cohen Jordan Kaplan Scholarship $1000 University of California-San Diego/ Gamma Rho Christian Mendez Karchmer Family Scholarship $1000 Parth Bhagwat Ira Rubenstein Gamma Rho Scholarship $500 University of Cincinnati /Omicron Spencer Borowski Blitzer Family Scholarship $500 Jeremy Wicks Lee & Marilyn Skilken Scholarship $500 Avi Zimmerman Omicron Scholarship $1000 University of Colorado Boulder /Mu Pi Bijan Molavi Ronald Shlensky Memorial Scholarship $1000

This page is made possible by the Richard H. Williamson Octagonian Fund

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University of Connecticut/ Epsilon Nu Sloan Gubner James C. Hammerstein Scholarship $2000

University of Nebraska-Lincoln /Sigma Omicron Ayden Hill Mu Gamma Engineering Scholarship $1000

University of Florida /Gamma Tau Joaquin Tinetti David D Levinson Scholarship $1000 Nathan Lamm Honorable Mention Andrew Dickson Scholarship $2000 Maximillian Hanson Raymond & Helen Sandler Scholarship $1000

University of Nevada-Las Vegas /Delta Upsilon Nathaniel Pethyon Terry Semel Scholarship $1000 Nathaniel Pethyon Dr. Vincent Contreras Leadership Scholarship $500 Dorian Vila-Barrios Deana & Gerald Stempler Scholarship $1000 Vincent Garritano Seymour Weiss Engineering Scholarship $1000

University of Illinois at Chicago /Gamma Epsilon Gabriel Alvarez Sean P. Daly Memorial Scholarship $1000 Alex Dedic David S. Rice Scholarship $1000

University of Pennsylvania/ Theta Ari Weiner Theta Centennial Scholarship $3000 Samuel Winn Ira Lind Scholarship $1500 Jordan Severino Theta Scholarship $1000 Lucas Lee Michael Fuchs Scholarship $500 Jason Lefkort Max M. Epstein Scholarship $1000 Aidan Nemiroff Theta Centennial Scholarship $3000

University of Illinois-Urbana /Rho Alex Kreiner Nate Karchmer Scholarship $2500 Samuel Acel-Green Groot Gregory Scholarship $500 Hank Mitchell Jeffrey Davis Scholarship $1000 Avi Wilens Katch Family Scholarship $1000 Ethan Comrov Joel Warady Scholarship $1000 Nathan Melnikov Private Family Foundation Scholarship $1000

University of Pittsburgh/ Psi Yonatan Hassidim Norman Berkowitz Scholarship $1000 Aidan Provda Darren Margolis Scholarship $500 Aidan McHugh Nathaniel B. Locklin Scholarship $1000 University of Rhode Island /Epsilon Pi Charlie Mather Sonia Brown Memorial Scholarship $1000 Vonne Goffe Theodore Ignall Scholarship $1000 Jake Bunis Kenneth & Madeline Wolf Scholarship $500

Avi, Ethan, and Nathan (Rho)

University of Maryland-College Park/ Sigma Chi Samuel Cogan Jerry Silver Memorial Scholarship $1000 Jonah Goldfarb Hyman I. Jacobson Top Senior Scholar Award $2000 Vignesh Lella Royal Flagg Jonas Scholarship $1000 Jack Collier Sigma Chi Scholarship $1000 Josh Cohn Martin & Howard Miller Scholarship $1500 Charlie Getz Nu Legacy Scholarship $1000 Brandon Weber James R. Favor Risk Management Scholarship $2500 Joey Barke Gilbert Gottlieb Scholarship $1000 University of Michigan/ Sigma Iota Michael Lapin Robert E. Kauff Memorial Scholarship $1000 Chad Brouze Sidney Bielfield Memorial Scholarship $1000

University of Southern California /Mu Theta Cole Snee Leonard H. Smith Memorial Scholarship $1000 Kadon Chia Axelrod Family Scholarship $500 Ben Song Brad Wayne Scholarship $500 Grayson King S David Coleman Scholarship $500 Liam Riley Harry & Harriet Stone Scholarship $500 Jack Rice Lisa Wiviott Memorial Scholarship $500 Luke Norkaitis I.E. Millstone Scholarship $1000 Mason Platt Jack & Sara Freeman Scholarship $1000 Max Gross Marc P. Schwartz Scholarship $1000 Luke Bell Edward P. Rosen Scholarship $500 University of Texas at Austin/ Sigma Theta Ben Sherman Glazer Family Jewish Studies Scholarship $14,500 Lucas Roberts Jeff Levy Sigma Theta Scholarship $4000 Joseph Caleb Shabot Patricia & Barry Epstein Scholarship $1000 Etai Geller Glazer Family Jewish Studies Scholarship $14,500 Cooper Schorr Marty Levinson Memorial Scholarship $2000 Charlie Robin Joan & Jack Wallick Scholarship $1000 Richard Rowell James & Rosalie Alexander Scholarship $1000 Joseph Spiro Gary Gotlieb Scholarship $3000

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University of Virginia /Beta Psi Yusuf Sagun John C. Ale Scholarship $1000 Jamal Chouffani Thomas Ross Scholarship $500 Caleb Snowhite Stanley M. Lefco Scholarship $500 University of West Florida/ Delta Eta Kenneth Burrell Margolis-Guzick Scholarship $1500*

Dylan (Sigma Iota)

University of Minnesota/ Kappa Jonathan Zielinski Manuel Leve Scholarship $1000 Dominic Peterson Paul Pumpian Scholarship $2000 Simon Balak Ben Savage Scholarship $1000 Kobi Schear Schwartz/Girson Risk Management Scholarship $2500 Carter Pederson Ronn & Kimberly Tulman Scholarship $500 26

University of Wisconsin-Madison/ Beta Iota Benjamin Kreit Milken Family Scholarship $2000 Max Levine Robert Traum Scholarship $1000 Corey Sherman Frederic Brooks Scholarship $500 *Graduate Student Italics are Scholarships Awarded for the First Time in 2025 This page is made possible by the Richard H. Williamson Octagonian Fund

SAM-FDN.ORG

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU • • •

How has Sigma Alpha Mu played a role in your professional career?

In what ways has the fraternity shaped your civic engagement and volunteer service?

What advice would you offer to our current undergraduate fratres based on your experience?

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO HEAR FROM SAM? What insights, questions, and perspectives would you like to learn about Sigma Alpha Mu and the fraternity experience on college campuses today?

The Gift of Life: Making a Difference Together

Sigma Alpha Mu has partnered with The Gift of Life Marrow Registry to help patients battling blood cancers and other blood disorders.

Our efforts have led to 42 potential donor matches and 4 life-saving transplants so far. By registering as donors, ΣAM members are giving patients across the country a real chance at a second chance at life.

This ongoing partnership shows the power of community and the difference one person can make.

Gift of Life’s mission is to cure blood cancer through cellular therapy.

They believe every person battling these diseases deserves a second chance at life—and they are determined to make it happen. Through education, outreach, and donor recruitment, Gift of Life empowers individuals to join the registry and potentially become life-saving matches for patients in need.

Email us at editor@sam.org to be included or inform future publications.

Each year, Sigma Alpha Mu’s Convention brings undergraduate members together to give back in a meaningful way. At the 2025 Convention in the Twin Cities, the Fraternity partnered with Gift of Life Marrow Registry, an organization dedicated to curing blood cancer and other blood disorders through marrow and stem cell donation.

Reply by October 24th for the opportunity to be incorporated in the next issue of The Octagonian.

This year’s service project focused on raising awareness about the importance of marrow and stem cell donation. Attendees learned how a simple cheek swab can begin the journey toward finding a cure and how they can help bring Gift of Life’s mission to their campuses and communities.

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.

Together, Sigma Alpha Mu and Gift of Life continue to show how one small act can have a lasting impact—one swab, one donor, and one life at a time.

Interested? Why wait? Contact a member of their recruitment team today, and they will discuss options with you. Gift of Life staff is equipped to train and guide you through the process to make your event a success! Their e-mail address is recruitment@giftoflife.org.

For more information, visit www.giftoflife.org/donors/recruitment

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.

Fall 2025

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Octagonian Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity 8701 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268 Moving? Update your contact information on MyΣAM or send your new address to samhq@sam.org.

Parents, if your son still receives his copy of The Octagonian at your home and is no longer in college or living with you, feel free to send us his new address by emailing samhq@sam.org.